John Paul Masciarelli

1942 - 2023

It is with very heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of our beloved husband, father, grandpa, brother, teacher, coach, mentor and dearest friend to so many, John Paul Masciarelli. John was a very youthful 80 years of age when he passed. John is survived and greatly missed by his loving wife of 58 years, Norma Masciarelli of Dighton, MA; his brother Eugene Masciarelli of CA; his brother James Masciarelli and wife Judi of FL, his brother in law Michael Ellia of Fitchburg, MA and his children, daughter Cynthia Masciarelli of North Easton, MA, son Steven Masciarelli of North Attleboro, MA, and son Michael along with wife Christine Masciarelli of North Dighton, MA. He is forever cherished and remembered by his seven grandchildren, Mackenzie, Alyssa, Julia, Holly, Harrison, Mia and Mason. He was the most fun and loving grandfather to each and every one of them.

John was born in Milford, MA on October 22, 1942. He is predeceased by his parents Rocco Masciarelli and Adeline (Rossi) Masciarelli of Westboro, MA. John was a standout high school athlete who went on to attend Boston University, later pursuing a career in physical education. It was at that time in Boston that he met the love of his life, Norma. Familiarly and lovingly known as "Mr. Mash," he taught and coached in the Dighton-Rehoboth Public School system for 38 years before retirement. During his time, as a teacher and a coach, he made countless lifelong connections with his students and athletes that live on to this day. After retirement, he continued to teach and mentor young student drivers as a driving instructor for Teachers Driving Academy. He was still teaching in that capacity on the last day he was with us. He was greatly loved and will be sorely missed by his family, community, students, and lifelong friends he made and maintained throughout his life. When he saw you, he lit up and made you know you were very special to him, because he truly felt blessed to have you in his life.

John was happiest surrounded by his family. He had an unquenchable thirst for living life to its fullest. He had a great sense of humor and enjoyed nothing more than filling a room with laughter. He loved the ocean and bringing his family together in Florida during the winter months, or at local Massachusetts beaches in Westport and on Cape Cod for day trips or week-long family vacations. He loved watching football and would prepare large pasta meals and invite anyone who was available to enjoy the game, his food, and most importantly his fun-loving approach to living life.

His legacy will live on forever, reminding us that family comes first and to always let your friends and family know that they are loved. We all are better for having known him and been loved by him. Calling hours will be held at the O'Keefe-Wade Funeral Home 70 Washington Street in Taunton on Friday from 4-7 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St Nicholas of Myra Church in No Dighton on Saturday at 11 AM.

In Lieu of flowers donations in John's memory please visit https://gofund.me/aea3a8ff to donate the John P. Masciarelli Fund. We have established this fund as we move toward working with Dighton Rehoboth Regional School District to create a lasting and memorable legacy for this beloved man.