John J. Cellucci

North Fort Myers, Fla. - John J. Cellucci, 88, of Groton Long Point and North Fort Myers, Fla., formerly of Taftville, passed away peacefully at his North Fort Myers home on Oct. 14, 2008.

John was born in Norwich on Aug. 14, 1920. He was the son of Antonio and Marie (Coletti) Cellucci.

He married Rita Beauregard on Dec. 26, 1942, at Sacred Heart Church in Taftville. John and Rita were married for 53 years. Rita passed away in 1995.

John is survived by many loving family members, including his three daughters, Christine and her husband, Victor Estelle, Carolyn Cellucci, and Laraine "Babe" Cellucci, all of Groton Long Point. He is also survived by eight grandchildren and their spouses, Shelley McBride-Belli and James Belli, Diane and David Eggler, David and Laurie McBride, Amy and Gerry Leger, John and Aimee Estelle, Ali and Chris Lacey, Matthew McBride and Emily Stern-McBride, and Julie and Larry Balsley; 12 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Mary Tringe and Loretta Shillo; and numerous nieces and nephews. John is also survived by his long-time companion, Rita LaFave of North Fort Myers, Fla., with whom he shared many years of happiness.

John was predeceased by his youngest daughter, Paula Cellucci, in 1967. He was also predeceased by his brothers, Constance, Daniel and Anthony, and sisters, Carmella Rokowski and Anna Luty.

John was a faithful communicant of Sacred Heart Church in Taftville for many years. After moving to Groton Long Point, John became a parishioner of St. Mary Mother of the Redeemer Church in Groton.

John proudly served in the United States Navy during World War II. Upon his return to Norwich, he was employed by King Seely Thermos in Taftville until he retired in 1982. He and his wife owned and operated Rita's Washerette in Taftville for over 15 years.

Nothing brought John more pleasure than spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. From fishing and lobstering to waterskiing and family gatherings, they enjoyed countless hours together. He will be greatly missed by all of them, and they will always cherish his memory.

John was also a devoted fan of the New York Yankees; he loved to play cards and enjoyed golfing. He was a lifelong member of the Knights of Columbus, the Norwich Lodge of Elks, and the Maennerchor Club.

There are no calling hours. A memorial mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 8, 2008, at St. Mary Mother of the Redeemer Church, 69 Groton Long Point Road, Groton.

Memorial donations may be made in his name to Hope Hospice, 9470 Health Park Circle, North Fort Myers FL 33908; or Hospice of Southeastern CT, 227 Dunham St., Norwich CT 06360.