John Tilotta Maltese

John Tilotta Maltese, age 93 of Deaton Creek in Hoschton, GA, passed away peacefully on December 22, 2025. He was born on January 2, 1932, in Ridgefield Park, New Jersey.

John was a proud veteran of the US Army serving from 1952 to 1955. He devoted his professional life to precision, innovation, and quiet excellence. A highly skilled mechanical draftsman, he contributed to the design and development of flight simulators, teaching machines, cameras, and audio intelligence devices-work that supported advances in aviation, education, and technology during a pivotal era of American engineering. Over the course of his career, he was employed by Curtiss-Wright, Edison Laboratories, Berkey/Keystone, Visual Graphics Corporation, and Mitel, where his technical expertise and attention to detail were widely respected.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 69 years, Virginia Maltese, and by his cherished granddaughter, Larissa Maltese. John is survived by his sons, Jeff Maltese and his wife Terry of Vero Beach, Florida, and John Maltese and his wife Sue of Lawrenceville, Georgia; six grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren, who carry forward his legacy of integrity, curiosity, and devotion to family.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, John had a deep and enduring love for Italian opera, particularly the works of Giuseppe Verdi and Giacomo Puccini. La Bohème held a special place in his heart, reflecting his appreciation for beauty, emotion, and timeless artistry.

A Celebration of Life honoring John Tilotta Maltese will be held in the Stateroom of Flanigan Funeral Home on Saturday, January 24, 2026 at 3:00 p.m.