John Francis Colleli passed away Tuesday the 4th of April 2023. He was 83 years old.
Jack was born in Washington, D.C.; the last and 7th of his siblings. At the age of 17, he joined the Air Force where he served as a parts supply specialist. After serving his country for four years, he moved with his family to central Florida. Once there, he became employed as a mechanic; a job he kept the rest of his life. Jack was raised Catholic and became a Grand Knight with the Knights of Columbus. Due to his love and compassion for the hurting and sick, he served local community organizations such as St. Jude’s Hospital, the Special Olympics, and the Ronald McDonald House. After a brief time of doubt about God after the passing of his mother, Jack rededicated his life to Christ and became a member of the First Baptist Church of Mount Dora.
Jack enjoyed building and working on automobiles. His career suited him perfectly. When he wasn’t fixing cars or helping children, he enjoyed playing and watching sports. A couple of his favorite teams included the Washington Redskins and the Atlanta Braves. He enjoyed NASCAR, golf, and bowling as well.
Jack is predeceased by his parents: Francis and Catherine Colleli; sons: Johnnie and Leroy; brothers: Ralph, Tom, and Joe; and sister Barbara. He is survived by his wife, Nancy; his sons: Robert, Kevin, Dominic and Joe; his daughters: Christina and Victoria; his sister Frances; his niece Julie and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
A Celebration of Jack’s Life will be held at First Baptist Church of Mount Dora on the 29th of April at 11:00 AM with a visitation at 10:00 AM. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Cornerstone Hospice (www.cornerstonehospice.org), St. Jude Children’s Hospital (www.stjude.org) or to the Knights of Columbus (www.kofc.org).
