John R. Marchiano

John R. "Jack" Marchiano, age 86, of Wayne, PA, passed away peacefully at his home on November 19, 2024. Born on August 19, 1938, in Philadelphia, PA, Jack was the son of the late John and Theresa Marchiano (née Surace). He spent his childhood in south Philadelphia with his parents and two sisters Cathy and Rita and attended South Philadelphia High School. He then went on to study at the University of Pennsylvania where he received a degree in civil engineering and played for the university’s football team, helping PENN achieve its first Ivy League Football Championship in 1959. After earning his degree, Jack served in the United States Air Force as a navigator aboard C-124s for the Military Airlift Command during the Vietnam War. On August 7, 1965, he married Rita Herstek and upon completing his military service, Jack and Rita moved to Oregon where Jack pursued his MBA (Finance) at the University of Oregon. 

Following completion of his Masters, Jack forged a successful career in finance and held several executive management positions with various industrial manufacturing companies, including Emerson and General Electric. Jack’s career eventually brought him back to the Philadelphia area in the mid 1990s where he ultimately retired. Following retirement, Jack remained active with volunteer activities at his church and with the Knights of Columbus. He also enjoyed volunteering at the Special Olympics and attending several different veterans’ functions. He remained an avid Philadelphia sports fan and enjoyed watching baseball, basketball and football. 

Jack and Rita were blessed with three daughters, Jill, Beth and Susan and he was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was known for his deep love of family, his tireless work ethic, and a strong sense of service. Jack’s determination and grit were bar none and he could often be heard reciting Winston Churchill’s famous quote “never, never, never give up” to his family and friends. His integrity, kindness, and generosity of spirit made him a role model to those who knew him and he was always willing to provide support to those in need. 

Although he will be deeply missed, we take comfort in knowing that Jack is at peace and that his memory will live on in our hearts. 

Jack is survived by his wife Rita E. Marchiano (née Herstek); his daughters Jill McWhirter (Tim), Beth Pugh (David), and Susan Laurence (Lawton); his grandchildren Ryan and Haley McWhirter, Abraham and Caroline Pugh, and Landon and Sophia Laurence; and his sister Catherine Snell. He is predeceased by his sister, Rita Holding and her husband James. 

Relatives and friends are invited to Jack's Visitation on Saturday, November 30, 2024, from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM at St. Isaac Jogues Church, 50 W. Walker Road, Wayne, PA 19087, followed by his Funeral Mass at 10:30 AM. Interment Private. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Jack’s name to St. Isaac Jogues Church, 50 W. Walker Rd., Wayne, PA 19087, would be appreciated.