John Thomas Finn

John Thomas Finn of Oakdale passed away at the age of 85 on Thursday, February 19 surrounded by family and friends. John is survived by his five children and their husbands, Patricia (Stephen Rapiejko), Susan (Michael Adams), Kathleen (James Dean), Mary (Richard Gentleman) and Jennifer (Anthony Kuefner), along with 14 grandchildren. John was predeceased by his wife Barbara in 2019.

Born in Brooklyn, NY, on June 3, 1940, John carried the strength, spirit, unwavering faith and unmistakable charm of his hometown with him throughout his life. At just 21 years old, he married the love of his life, Barbara, beginning a beautiful partnership built on devotion, laughter and unwavering commitment. Together they created a home filled with warmth, faith and love. He was a proud “girl dad” long before the term was popular, offering steady guidance, protective strength and endless encouragement. Being Grandpa – “Pa” as he was affectionately called – was one of his greatest honors, and his love for his family knew no bounds.

A man of deep faith, he was very involved in his church community. He was active in the Knights of Columbus, serving with dedication and brotherhood as a member, as well as a past Grand Knight and District Deputy. He also shared his love of music as a singer in the church choir and as a proud member of the Hibernian Singers. 

He found happiness in life’s simple pleasures — casting a line on a quiet morning while fishing, enjoying long afternoons on the golf course, driving classic Volkswagens, and, perhaps most memorably, telling jokes. His sense of humor was legendary; he never missed an opportunity to make someone smile and his stories were unforgettable.

From opening day, John could always be found passionately cheering for his beloved New York Mets. Through every season, good or bad, he remained a loyal fan. 

Above all, he loved his family fiercely and faithfully. He modeled the value of commitment, the importance of showing up and the power of humor even in life’s toughest moments. His legacy lives on in the strength of his daughters, the joy of his grandchildren, and the countless memories they will carry in their hearts.

He will be deeply missed, forever loved and always remembered. A celebration of life mass will be held in his honor on Thursday, March 12 at 11:15 a.m. at St. John Nepomouce Church in Bohemia. He will be interred to eternal rest in Greenwood Cemetery in Brooklyn in a private service on Friday, March 13.