John Federico Obituary

John Michael Federico, age 95, of Willoughby Hills, passed away peacefully at his home on August 22, 2025, surrounded by love. Born in Cleveland, Ohio on March 9, 1930, John lived a long and full life devoted to family, faith, and hard work.

He was the beloved father of Jeffery J. (Kelly) Federico, Michelle L. Kontra, Gregory S. (Mary Ann) Federico, and J. Michael Federico; and the proud grandfather of Jeff Jr. (Maggie) Federico, David Federico, Kayla (Jon) Wiley, Karissa (Donald) Palmisano, Mario (Saray) Palmisano, Dominic (Natalie) Federico, Joshua Federico, Anthony (Jenna) Federico, Brandon Federico, Matthew Federico, Madelyn Kontra, Michaela (Patrick) Ross, Michael Vincent Federico, J. Michael Federico, Haven Federico, and Jordan Federico. John was also blessed with cherished great-grandchildren Jacob, Daniel, Ryan, Walker, Luna, Isadora, Mason, and Wyatt, each of whom brought him great joy. He is survived by his brother-in-law Dr. Kenneth Boyle and sister-in-law Marsha Boyle and many loving nieces and nephews.

John was welcomed into eternal rest by his devoted wife, Shirley Ann Federico (née Boyle); his treasured daughter, Lisa (Mark) Palmisano; his parents, Michael V. and Louise Federico (née Petti); siblings Salvatore (Laura) Federico, Frank Federico, and Anna Perna; and his in-laws Andrew and Anna Boyle, along with brothers-in-law Andrew Boyle and Dr. James Boyle and sister-in-law Rosemary Boyle.

A proud United States Marine, John honorably served during the Korean War, working in food service and continuing a lifelong passion for cooking. Before his service, he worked at King Cole's Drive-In Restaurant in Cleveland. He later became a well-known and respected businessman in Lake County, owning and operating the KFC Restaurant in Willowick for 59 years.

John's love of food went far beyond his business-it was at the heart of who he was. He delighted in preparing meals for his family and friends, from Sunday dinners and holiday feasts to simple moments around the table. His kitchen was a place of warmth, laughter, and storytelling, where everyone felt welcome and loved. His homemade wine was a family tradition, and he poured not only a glass but also his heart into every gathering. Cooking was John's way of caring, and sharing his food was sharing himself-his generosity, his joy, and his love for life.

He was also an avid fisherman and hunter who found peace and joy at his family's cabin in the Allegheny Mountains, where countless memories were made and stories told around the table and by the fire.

The Federico family extends their deepest gratitude to Brenda, BJ, and Kelly, whose devotion and kindness in caring for John during the last three and a half years went far beyond duty. They were not just caregivers but companions, bringing comfort, dignity, and friendship to his days. Their extraordinary love and support gave the family peace and allowed John to remain at home, surrounded by familiarity and love. For this, his family will be forever grateful.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate John's life during visitation on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, from 3:00–8:00 PM at McMahon-Coyne-Vitantonio Funeral Home, 38001 Euclid Ave., Willoughby. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday, September 3 at 10:00 AM at Immaculate Conception Church, 37932 Euclid Ave., Willoughby, with burial to follow at All Souls Cemetery in Chardon.

John leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and family that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.