John George Walz

My John G. Walz, age 93, of Great Kills, passed away comfortably and peacefully at home. Fondly known as Jack, he was born to John and Winifred Walz in Concord, where he spent his formative years. His loving brothers, Donald and Robert, pre- deceased him. Jack often recalled his youthful adventures and antics with his brothers. Jack's grandmother owned a two-acre farm and he recalled how she raised chickens, pigs, goats and even pigeons, which were served in local restaurants as a delicacy known as squab. Jack even pumped water from the well as his grandmother did not have an indoor water supply. His loving aunt, Edna, a photographer, in the Women's Army Corp also left a lasting impression on him. He remembered helping her develop pictures in the darkroom she had in her basement. Jack graduated from New Dorp High School, and in a remarkable act of determination, returned to school in the late 1970s' attending night classes' and earned his Bachelor of Arts degree at age 43 from the City University of New York in January 1982. Jack began his professional career working briefly with the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, before joining the Department of Transportation and served the city for over 20 years. At the Department of Transportation, he held a variety of positions within his union including Officer, Secretary, Vice President, and ultimately as President during his last year, serving all five boroughs. He represented workers in hearings and collective bargaining agreements as well as for safeguarding workers' health and safety (per OSHA standards). After retiring from civil service, Jack began a second career as a school bus driver for the New York City Board of Education, where he was revered by both the children he transported and their families. Jack proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War, stationed in Austria with the Signal Corps. A loving and devoted father, Jack was known for his unwavering work ethic and deep commitment to providing for his family. He cherished visits from his children and his seven grandchildren. Jack was also a deeply religious man, dedicating much of his life to the service of the Catholic Church and of others. He was a Third Order Franciscan, a long-time Eucharistic Minister and Lector at his beloved parish, St. Clare's Church, and a generous volunteer. At Seaview Hospital Rehabilitation Center, Jack donated over 1,290 hours of service and was honored with the President's Volunteer Service Award in 2008 by the New York City Health and Hospitals Corporation. Jack was also a diehard Mets and Knicks fan, loyally sticking with his teams through all their ups and downs. Although he often got frustrated by their mistakes, his dedication never wavered. He looked forward to every game and loved talking about them with anyone who would listen' win or lose, he was always a true fan. Jack met the love of his life, Maureen, through her brother Tommy, who was Jack's close friend. Their paths crossed daily on the Staten Island Ferry, commuting to work in Manhattan, and that friendship quickly turned into a lifetime of love. Jack and Maureen were married on May 4, 1963, and honeymooned in Quebec and Montreal, beginning a beautiful journey that spanned over six decades. They recently celebrated their 63rd wedding anniversary and renewed their vows in a touching ceremony shortly before Jack's passing. Jack and Maureen shared a love of travel, exploring both the United States, Europe and Israel, and even had the unforgettable experience of flying aboard the British Airways Concorde. Together, Jack and Maureen built a beautiful life, raising four children who were the heart of their lives. He is lovingly remembered by his daughter Miriam (Ken) Velsor, son John (Jackie) Walz, son Joseph (Diane) Walz, and daughter Maria (Larry) Papini. Jack cherished his role as a grandfather, delighting in every moment spent with his seven beloved grandchildren: Megan, Kim, and Daniel Velsor; Delia and Jack Walz; and Christopher and Michael Papini. His love extended beyond people to the many dogs and "granddogs" who were part of the family's life over the years' Casey, Roxey, Doug, Steve, Rudy, Louie, Maggie, and Tucker' each of whom brought him great joy. Jack will be remembered for his willingness to speak his mind, deep faith, devotion to family, and selfless service to others. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 AM on Friday at St. Clare Church located at 110 Nelson Ave Staten Island, New York 10308. Interment will be in Resurrection Cemetery, Staten Island, NY. The family will receive friends from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at John Vincent Scalia Home for Funerals, Inc., 28 Eltingville Blvd, Staten Island, New York. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.scaliahome.com

John George Walz

January 1, 1932 - May 12, 2025