Obituary of John Michael Milanese

A Floridian all his life, John was Born on April 29, 1959 in Ormond Beach, and died November 4, 2016 at his home in Oakland Park. Survived by his Mother Suzanne (Dawson-Milanese) Clary, Sister Laurie Cathell, Nephew Nicholas Cathell, Devoted Companion Cheryl Lione, Aunt Marge Milanese of Waterford, NY, Cousins Michelle (Milanese) and David Pesek of Waynesville, NC, and a large extended family of the Troy , NY area, John was predeceased by his Father, Michael F. (d. 8/7/’16), John’s Brother Frank M. Milanese (d. 7/29/’05), and his Uncle and Aunt John F.(d. May 31,2008) and Lorraine(Horton d. 7/16/’87). John Michael Milanese of Florida and his siblings originated with their Paternal Grand-Parents Frank J. and Margaret (Colarusso) Milanese of Troy, NY and their Maternal Grand-Mother Anne Dawson of Trenton, NJ. John graduated from Croissant Park Elementary, Rogers Middle School, Stranahan High School of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Throughout those 12 years, this natural born athlete competed in all sports, always winning first place awards. Early on, he earned the nick name ‘Johnny Mel’ or ‘Mel’ by the numerous friends who adored him, and by coaches who took him under their wings. John’s outgoing ways attracted folks of all ages, and social strata. With his movie star looks, infectious smile, incredible memory, and gigantic heart he made an impression. His kindness, friendliness, and helpfulness with whom-ever, always interested in the other, John was quite the conversationalist, touched hearts a many. John was loved by all who crossed his path; if you met him, you remembered him. Johnny was self-employed as a skilled perfectionist painter who took pride in his completed/refreshed homes of new appearance. Over the last few years, John took care of his Dad, his Pal whom he idolized. As John mastered the techniques of nursing, we jokingly called John “the orderly”. In most things, John excelled at whatever he tried. John is now at PEACE with his Dad Mickey, Brother Frank, and his many family and friends who went before him. As these first holidays without Mickey and John gathered physically with us, we open ourselves to experience them anew. What a reunion for them and for us!!!! Johnny, we will always love you and miss you. “Once you shone among the living as the Morning Star; among the dead you shine now as the Evening Star.” Like a shooting star, you are going home! Written by Laurie Cathell, and tweaked by Marge Milanese.