(Saugus, MA) John Marasco, 65, passed away peacefully at Lahey Medical Center Tuesday, September 11, 2018 following a brave battle with lymphoma surrounded by his family and friends. He was the beloved husband of Connie (Jordan) Marasco with whom he shared 32 years of marriage. Born in Niagara Falls, NY on July 10, 1953 to Theresa (Filippelli) and John Marasco (both preceded him in death).
John began playing the guitar at the age of 8 years old, sharing his love of music with the world for well over 50 years. At age 21 he left Niagara Falls to pursue his professional music career in Los Angeles. Over the course of his lifetime John performed with world renowned artists such as The Lettermen, Peter Allen, Louis St. Luis/Alexis Smith, John Valenti, Mundell Lowe, Don Rickles, Joan Rivers, EarthaKitt, Al Martino, Jerry Vale, TKO Big Band and the White Heat Orchestra to mention a few.
John also performed in numerous theater productions and recordings throughout the Boston area and beyond. John had received his Associates Degree from Niagara Community College after graduation from Niagara-Wheatfield High School. In 1981 John moved to Boston to attend Berklee College of Music to enhance his knowledge and skills as a jazz guitar player.
After graduation he was fortunate to be hired as a teacher in the Guitar Department at Berklee where he rose to prominence as an Associate Professor for 34 years. John had a true passion for teaching and being able to learn from his students and colleagues as well. He was a member of the all-faculty ensemble known as the BeBop Guitars for 28 years (never missing a gig).
John was known by many as a dedicated family man, jazz musician, philosopher, friend to all who knew him, and a teacher both in and out of the classroom. In addition to his loving wife, John is survived by his brother Ronald (Tracy) Marasco of Greer, AZ, sister-in-law Patricia (Dennis) Brown of Oregon, OH, niece Kristi (Steven) Inkrott and their children Madison and Jordan of Delta, OH, nephew Scott (Hilario) Brown of San Antonio, TX, Aunt Theresa Filippelli of Niagara Falls, NY, godchildren Alexa and Andrew Goodlander of Buffalo, NY, chosen children Zachary and Emily Pinto and many family and friends. Relatives and friends are invited to attend visiting hours in the Bisbee-Porcella Funeral Home, 549 Lincoln Ave.
, SAUGUS on Friday, 4-8 p.m. Funeral from the funeral home on Saturday at 9 a.m. followed by a funeral mass at St. Margaret’s Church, 431 Lincoln Ave. , Saugus at 10 a.m. To send flowers or a remembrance gift to the family of John Marasco, please visit our Tribute Store.
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