John Anthony DeMarco passed away peacefully on the night of December 23, 2025. He was a loyal, loving, and exceptionally strong man whose character earned him the adoration of many. He is remembered for his selflessness, determination, and remarkable will to persevere—qualities that remained unwavering in the face of life's greatest challenges. His generosity was boundless, his authenticity unrivaled. He did things in entirely his own way and was loved for it.

John was a constant presence in the lives of his friends and family. His desire to uplift those around him was instinctive, and he succeeded in achieving the very best for his loved ones. To John, hard work was a fact of life, and he embraced it wholeheartedly. His energy was electric, and he remained in constant motion. Regardless of adversity, he was not a man who could be kept down. Simply put, John was the first and last of his kind.

Born in East Boston on December 24 to parents Josephine (DiMarino) and Felix J. DeMarco, John was a Boston man to his core. He was a proud cement mason throughout his working life and a cherished member of Local 534, Cement Masons and Plasterers Union, where he was known for his expertise, strong work ethic, and dedication to his trade.

John was also a gifted athlete. He played football in his youth, and, up until his passing, played handball regularly at L street Beach, and, in earlier years, at The Boston Athletic Club. When not on the court, he could often be found lifting weights at the gym or racing on the exercise bike. An avid reader, he enjoyed browsing bookstores of all sizes and reading peacefully in his living room in quieter moments.

Above all, John was devoted to his family. He will be missed deeply by his loving wife of 26 years, Maria DeMarco; their children, John Joseph DeMarco and Aria DeMarco; his mother, Josephine DeMarco; his sisters, Cecelia DeMarco, Rene Fagone, and Lisa Vozzella. He was predeceased by his father, Felix J. DeMarco, and his brother, Felix J. DeMarco Jr. He also leaves behind many loving nieces and nephews.

Though no attempt can be made to replicate him, John's legacy of strength, wisdom, and loyalty will be honored eternally.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend visiting hours on Friday January 2nd, from 4:00–8:00 p.m. at Bell O'Dea Funeral Home, 376 Washington Street, Brookline. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 3rd, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary of the Assumption Parish, 5 Linden Place, Brookline. Burial will follow at Holyhood Cemetery, 584 Heath Street, Chestnut Hill.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the funeral home in his honor, to support housing for veterans injured in the line of duty.