John J. LaRose, Sr.

John J. LaRose, Sr., 81, of Kelayres, passed away Wednesday evening at Kadima Rehabilitation & Nursing at Luzerne, of Drums, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Hazleton, he was the son of the late Anthony and Josephine (Pacenza) LaRose. He was a member of Church of All Saints, McAdoo.

John was a U.S. Army veteran and a retired member of the PA National Guard.

Prior to retiring, he was first employed as a life insurance agent with American General Life Insurance Co. and later with Metropolitan Life Insurance. He was also employed at Fort Indiantown Gap for 30 years.

John was a member of the McAdoo AMVETS #1, Hazleton American Legion #076, and the Bunton Bock Club of Hazleton. He was also a member of the Anthracite Automobile Club, McAdoo, and attended many car shows over the years. He had a passion for cars, especially his ’89 Corvette, 2003 Corvette, and 1965 Ford Mustang.

He was an avid hunter and bowler through the years. He loved cooking and sharing meals with his family. John was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and a friend to many, he will be greatly missed by all.

Preceding him in death were his sister, Marie LaRose, and brothers Louis and Michael LaRose.

Surviving are his wife of 59 years, Caroline M. (Morelli) LaRose; son, John J. LaRose, Jr. and wife Diane, of Sugarloaf; daughter, Joanne Zahran and husband Ehab, of Nazareth; son, Jamie LaRose and wife Kara, of Doylestown; grandchildren, J.J. and Angela LaRose; Evan Zahran; and Macy and Greyson LaRose; brother, Anthony LaRose and wife Amy, of Muncy; and several nieces and nephews.

His funeral will be held Friday, July 19, beginning at 9:30 a.m. from the Damiano Funeral Home, Inc., McAdoo. Rev. Barnabas Shayo will celebrate the Mass of Christian Burial in Church of All Saints, McAdoo, at 10 a.m. Interment will follow in Immaculate Conception Cemetery, McAdoo.

Calling hours will be held Thursday, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home.

Condolences may be entered, and information is available at www.damianofhinc.com. 

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