John D. Vaccaro

John D. Vaccaro, a beloved Commercial Art Director who dedicated his professional life to the creative industry in New York, passed away peacefully on December 4, 2024, in Somerville, New Jersey. Just shy of his 95th birthday, John was born on December 6, 1929, in Brooklyn, New York, to Michael and Rose Vaccaro. After living in Italy with his family, he returned to Brooklyn and his educational journey began at James Madison High School in Brooklyn.

Following high school, John served valiantly in the United States Army during the Korean War, where he was honored with two Bronze Service Stars. He achieved the rank of Sergeant before being honorably discharged in 1953. This service instilled in him a lifelong appreciation for history, particularly military history, which became a cherished interest.

On April 15, 1956, John married Celeste Elena Attanasio, known as Helen, his beloved wife of 68 years. Together, John and Helen raised five children, two boys and three girls. 

In 1963, John and his young family settled in Washington Township, New Jersey, and later moved to Mahwah in 1974. Throughout his life, he demonstrated a deep commitment to his community, becoming an active member of Immaculate Conception Church in Mahwah. John also served as a member of the Mahwah Township Zoning Board of Adjustment and the Historical Society. He was known for his warm heart, big smile, and love of conversation, particularly on topics of politics. An avid reader, he spent countless hours devouring books on war history and the Roman Empire. John maintained an active interest in the stock market until just a few years ago, reflecting his engaging and curious nature. John also enjoyed sports, regularly watching the New York Mets and Giants, and loved going to the opera with Helen. He was also an avid piano player. 

John is survived by his children: Michael and Leslie Vaccaro of Elverson, PA; Rosanna and Joe Massucci of Calabash, NC; Julia Vaccaro of Bedminster, NJ; John Vaccaro of New York, NY; and Andrea and Rich Aronow of Flemington, NJ. He leaves behind a cherished family that includes his grandchildren, Michael, Thomas, Matthew, Bryan, Samantha, and Arabella, as well as his great-grandchildren, Cameron, Avery, and Jacob.

He was predeceased by his loving parents, Michael and Rose Vaccaro; his brother, Joe Vaccaro; and his devoted wife of more than sixty years, Celeste Elena (Attanasio) Vaccaro, who passed earlier in 2024. The loss of John will be felt deeply by all who knew him.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during the viewing on December 13, 2024, from 8:30 AM to 9:30 AM at Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home located at 147 Main St, Flemington, NJ. A Mass of Christian Burial honoring his life will follow at St. Magdalen Church, located at 105 Mine Street, Flemington, NJ, beginning at 10:00 AM. John will be laid to rest during a graveside service at Maryrest Cemetery & Mausoleum, 770 Darlington Avenue, Mahwah, NJ, at 1:15 PM.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Wounded Warrior Project by clicking on the link below. For further information or to leave an online condolence, please visit www.holcombefisher.com.  

John D. Vaccaro's legacy of kindness, creativity, and devotion to family and friends will live on in the hearts of many. His memory is a treasured part of the lives he touched during his remarkable journey.