John James DiFranco

It is with heavy hearts and profound sorrow that we announce the passing of John James DiFranco, a beloved man whose kindness and zest for life touched the hearts of all who knew him. John was born on November 20, 1957, in Yonkers, New York, and passed away on June 7, 2026, after succumbing to injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident. His life, though ending too soon, was filled with love, adventure, and dedication. John was the cherished son of Joseph DiFranco and Serafina Cuffari, both of whom preceded him in death, along with his dear brother, Michael DiFranco, and sister, Patricia DiFranco. Despite these losses, John carried the legacy of his family forward with grace and strength. He is survived by his loving significant other, Mary Knabe, who stood by his side through all of life’s trials and triumphs. John was a devoted father to his children, John Joseph DiFranco and Leanne Allard, who were his pride and joy. He found great delight in his grandchildren, Harrison and Eloise Allard, whose laughter and innocence brought him endless happiness. John shared a deep bond with his siblings, Marie Hall, Joseph (Don) DiFranco, Ann DiFranco, and Robert DiFranco, who will forever cherish the memories of their shared childhood and the close-knit family they cultivated throughout the years. A man of many talents, John was a printer by trade and spent many years working as an oil technician, bringing diligence and skill to all his endeavors. His work ethic and dedication were a testament to his character, earning him respect and admiration from colleagues and friends alike. John’s love of travel and the great outdoors was a cornerstone of his life. He found peace and joy in nature’s embrace, whether hiking through scenic trails or exploring new destinations. His passion for cars was evident in his prized 1941 Dodge Coupe, which garnered numerous accolades and trophies at car shows. These hobbies were not just pastimes but reflections of his love for the world around him. In accordance with John’s wishes, a private funeral ceremony will be held to honor his memory. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Project Healing Waters, an organization close to John’s heart, which supports the healing of veterans through fishing. Contributions can be made via their website at www.projecthealingwaters.org. Though John’s earthly journey has ended, his spirit remains ever-present in the lives of those he touched. His love, generosity, and adventurous spirit will forever be remembered and cherished. As we say goodbye, we celebrate a life well-lived and a man deeply loved. May he rest in peace, wrapped in eternal love and light.