7
trees
planted in memory of John Jack Stella
Obituary for John Jack Stella
John Jack Stella, a resident of Middletown, NY, formally of Astoria, NY, a devoted husband to Constance and loving father, passed away from a long illness at the age of 85.
Jack was one of four children born to Giacomo and Jenny (Arini) Stella on November 27, 1936, in East NY Brooklyn.
Jack was a kind and considerate outgoing man. He always said if you can be anything in your life “be kind”.
His sharp wit and dry sense of humor could always be depended upon to bring a good laugh to all.
In June 1956 Jack married Harriet Welsch. They had four children together. Debra, Suzanne, Jack & Kathleen.
In April 1972 Jack married Lucille MacQueen and had one child together, Cassandra.
In July1985 Jack married Constance Elkner.
Jack wore many hats throughout his lifetime. He built his own home. He was a car enthusiast, racing in his younger years and had a fondness of music such as Frank Sinatra and Montavoni. At the early age of 15 still in school he went to work for a family friend as a carpet installer. That began his 60 years in the carpet industry where he established a reputation of excellence in his field. There has never been anyone in the carpet industry with more style and imagination with the ability to turn dreams into reality. In his early years his talents led him to the homes of the stars from Johnny Carson to Allen Funt (Candid Camera).
Also, that yellow brick road in the movie “The Wiz”? All Jack!
Later, He was hired by Collins and Aikman Carpet Corporation. He traveled and trained Flooring technicians
throughout the US, Canada and as far as Saudi Arabia. He was a mentor to many.
In the 1970’s Jack took a break from the carpet business. He attended culinary school and with his family by his side he purchased Hillside Bar and Grill, Montgomery, NY. He renamed it the Rustic Inn. It was a place where everyone knows your name. Best known for great food, live music & always a listening ear. He had a unique ability to connect with anyone of any age about any topic.
Jack will be lovingly remembered by his children, Debra Moseley (Harry), Suzanne Stella (Patricia), Kathleen Martinolich (John), Cassandra West (Jim). Stepdaughters, Helen Martin (David), Constance Houseknecht (Scott), Elizabeth Elkner.
He is also survived by 5 Grandchildren, Jennifer, Harry, Everleigh, Elizabeth, Robert and 5 Great Grandchildren.
Also, many cousins, nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Jack was predeceased by his son, Jack Stella Jr, his brother Joseph and sister Jeannie.
A Visitation will be held from 4:00Pm to 7:00Pm on Monday, October 10, 2022 at Applebee-McPhillips Funeral Home,
130 Highland Avenue, Middletown, NY 10940.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Joseph's Church, 149 Cottage St Middletown, NY on Tuesday October 11, 2022 at 11:00AM
Interment will follow at Scotchtown Cemetery on Blumel Rd. in Scotchtown, NY.
For directions or to send the family an online condolence, please visit www.applebee-mcphillips.com
Arrangements are under the direction of Applebee-McPhillips Funeral Home. 845-343-6309.
To plant a tree in memory of John Jack Stella, visit the Tribute Store.
Previous Events
Visitation
Monday
10
Oct
4:00 PM
- 7:00 PM
Applebee-McPhillips Funeral Home
130 Highland Ave.
Middletown, NY 10940
Service
Tuesday
11
Oct
11:00 AM
- 12:00 PM
St. Joseph's Church
149 Cottage Street
Middletown, NY 10940
Graveside
Tuesday
11
Oct
12:30 PM
- 12:45 PM
Scotchtown Cemetery
Blumel Road
MIddletown, NY 10940
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