Obituary of John P. Zazzara

South Plainfield - John P. Zazzara, 89, died Sunday, November 9, 2014 at The Woodlands in Plainfield. Born in Plainfield to the late Joseph and Candida, John resided in the city until 1956 when he relocated to South Plainfield. Honorably discharged from the U.S. Army, John served proudly under Gen. George Patton with the 396th Batallon's 16th Armor Division. Later, in the 60's to mid 70's he was a member of South Plainfield's Civil Defense and Captain of South Plainfield's Special Police. A true entertainer, John was happiest on the bandstand with his country and western band, The Shed House Trio. When he wasn't singing or playing his bass fiddle, he could keep you entertained for hours with his magic tricks and jokes. Every year at Christmas, John would volunteer his time and play for special needs children which was always very emotional but very important to him. He also volunteered his time with the Sisters of Mercy in Plainfield. It was with the Sisters Of Mercy that John experienced one of the most memorable moments of his life when he met Mother Theresa. Predeceased by his wife Ann (Brennan) who died in 2003, and four siblings, Anthony James, Rose Pasquarello, Joeseph and Anthony; surviving are five children, Denice Brooks and husband Bill, Doreen Delaney, Darleen Albuino, Cookie Savoca and husband Paul, and Jay Zazzara and wife Sue; six siblings, Pasquale, Felice, Louis, Marie, Jeanette and Linda. He will also be greatly missed by twelve grandchildren and five great granddaughters. Funeral services will begin on Friday, November 14, 2014 at 10:00 AM in the McCriskin - Gustafson Home For Funerals, 2425 Plainfield Ave., South Plainfield, NJ 07080 followed by interment in Holy Redeemer Cemetery. Family and friends may attend visitation on Thursday, November 13, 2014 from 4-8 PM in the funeral home.