John Miscia, last residing in Middletown Township, N.J., passed away at the age of 78 on January 26, 2019. John was born in Montclair, but lived almost his entire life in Verona. John was preceded in death by his parents, Frank Miscia and May Miscia. He is survived by his loving niece and primary caregiver Beverly Greatorex, his two sisters Virginia Greatorex, and Marie Miscia Riedinger and his brother Frank Miscia as well as nieces and nephews Christine, Jill, Ron and Robert.
John was a unique individual who had many successes in athletics and business. He also had a big heart and often helped those who needed his support. John was an incredible three-sport athlete at Verona High School. He was a nine-letter star in baseball, basketball and football making all state in all three sports. He was also an N.J. state champion in football and basketball. He was most proud of his part, as high scorer, in Verona’s first state basketball championship in 1957. John also signed a major league baseball contract in 1958 but his professional baseball career was cut short by injuries. John was uniquely talented, had incredible grit and determination and loved to compete at the highest levels.
John had a successful business career over many years, in equity investments, ownership of several apartment buildings, and owning/operating restaurants and cocktail lounges. Unfortunately, he also suffered some business setbacks which he handled matter of factly and with grace. His generosity throughout his life for family members and friends was seldom mentioned but always appreciated.
John’s courage was severely tested as he battled a series of ailments over the past several years but his loving niece Beverly was by his side right to the end. During that period of time he resided in Brighton Gardens of Middletown Township. The staff at Brighton appreciated and loved John’s unique personality and were excellent care givers. We will all miss John-He was a good man.
A memorial service for John will be held at Caggiano’s Funeral Home, 62 Grove Street, Montclair, from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, February 2, 2019. Donations to a charity of personal choice may be made in John’s name.
I played ball with both John Miscia @Verona HS ,and with Fred Hill @Upsala College will miss them both, they where both great athletes. I captained both Verona and Upsala football teams. At Verona played on 5 All State teams:3 three in football, 2 in track 1952 to 1956. We had the greatest Coachs Football Coach : Dutch Wermuth and Skip Smith in track. 1955 Football team; first team to be StateChamps Group II,1952 team are in VHS Hall of Fame