While reading the newspaper this morning I turned the page to finish a story and saw John’s obituary. My condolences to John’s family and friends. He was a true gem. I had met John a couple of years ago while with my son at the grocery store. As all who knew him can attest, he loved to tell stories of his life in NYC, especially those during the 40s and 50s, and it turned out that his beautiful wife, who once turned down a lucrative job as the Breck Girl, worked at the Waldorf Astoria at the same time my mother’s uncle was a doorman. Although he never met my mother, he always asked about her. He took a shining to my son, partly because he said he and his wife tragically lost their only son during a delivery mishap. I lost touch with John until I received a Christmas card this past year. I told him that I was so happy to hear from him since I had lost his contact information. I planned on trying to meet up with him this past Monday or Tuesday but was unable to. John, it was a pleasure knowing you and I hope you and Catherine are dancing together again, this time, with your baby boy.

All my best,
Carol Parrish McCoy

Sometimes in life we are blessed by extremely wonderful and special people that God places upon our paths of life.  John A. Mistretta is truly one of those special people and I am so grateful to God for being able to call John my dear friend.  Something that I have had the honor and privilege of doing for the past 38 years!  John and I met years ago when I was a lifeguard at Willow Valley during my high school years.  He and his beloved wife, Catherine, became fast friends of mine.  They were a wonderful example of what true love is all about and helped inspire me to pursue the same for myself one day.  After Catherine passed away 13 years ago, John and I continued to be close friends through the miles.  John is a fine example of what a true friend is and has been such a blessing in my life!  John has always inspired me to reach for the stars and never give up your dreams in life.  He was a very kindhearted man who always took the time to listen and care so deeply.  John had a huge heart and always was thinking of others.  John was a gentleman and a true prince of a man!  I truly believe that this world is a better place for having John been a part of it.  I can certainly say that I am a better person for having John be a  part of my life!  I will miss him immensely, however, I am thankful for the lasting impressions that he has had on my life.  Thank you, John, for being the special and one of a kind person that you truly are to me and so many others, no doubt.

My sincere and heartfelt condolences to John’s family and close friends.

God rest your sweet soul, John. 
Your forever and grateful friend,
Lynn Harrison Dyer