John B. Celifarco

John B. Celifarco, 76, of Hazlet, New Jersey, passed away on April 5, 2026, surrounded by the love and memories of a life well lived. Born on June 11, 1949, in Brooklyn, New York, he was the son of the late Anthony and Mary (Pielucci) Celifarco. He was raised in Brooklyn and carried the strength, spirit, and character of that city with him throughout his life.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Anthony and Mary (Pielucci) Celifarco, his brothers Michael Celifarco and Robert Celifarco, and his grandson, John Domenick Simon. Their memories remained close to his heart, and he held his family bonds with deep affection throughout his life.

He is survived by his former wife, Linda Volgende, and by his daughters, Lori Simon and her husband Domenick, and Lisa Brandenburg and her husband Joe. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Gianna Simon, Francesca Simon, Joey Brandenburg, and Robbie Brandenburg. John will also be lovingly remembered by his brother Thomas Celifarco and his sister-in-law Mary, his nephews Tommy, Anthony, and Joey, his sister-in-law Elsie Muhlhausen, and his extended family and friends who will miss him dearly.

John spent his early years in Brooklyn before moving to the Poconos in 2004. In 2011, he made his home in Toms River, where he finally settled and enjoyed the comfort of being near family and friends. He retired after a long career in Financial Banking, most notably as a manager for Merrill Lynch. John also was proud to have owned “Lorisa Deli.” Even though it was for a short while, you could see the joy it brought him to own his own business.

A proud United States Navy Veteran, John carried his service with honor and dignity. His military service was a source of pride, and it reflected the sense of duty and loyalty that defined much of his life. He valued tradition, family, and time spent with the people he loved, and he found joy in simple pleasures that brought everyone together.

John especially loved playing Mexican Train, and he could often be found around a table with his friends playing. He also enjoyed cruising with his loved ones, sharing meals at buffets, and watching Sci-Fi movies.

Known for his generosity and strong devotion to family, he also had a famously grumpy side—one that his loved ones came to cherish as part of his unmistakable personality. His journey from Brooklyn to the Poconos and finally to Toms River reflected a life of change, growth, and enduring connection to the people who mattered most to him.

John B. Celifarco will be deeply missed by his family, his friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him, and his legacy of love, service, and devotion will not be forgotten.

Family and friends are invited to visit on Tuesday, April 7th, 2026 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Shore Point Funeral Home and Cremation Services Inc., 3269 State Highway/ Route 35 North, Hazlet, New Jersey, 07730. A prayer service will be offered during the evening visitation on Tuesday, by Pastor Matt Thiringer. John will be privately cremated.

For more information, directions or to send condolences to the family, please visit www.shorepointfh.com.

In memory of John, donations can be made to the food pantry where he used to volunteer. Please donate online at https://www.newbeginningsnj.org/foodpantry or by a check in the mail to New Beginnings Food Pantry 236 Brick Blvd Brick Township, New Jersey 08723. Indicate “Food Panty – John” in the memo.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John B. Celifarco, please visit our floral store.