Obituaries

John Francis Pisarski, Jr.

John Francis Pisarski, Jr., known affectionately as Johnny, passed away on June 30, 2023, in his hometown of Newport News, Virginia. He leaves behind a legacy of love, passion, and a need for speed that his family and friends will forever cherish.

Johnny is survived by his beloved sisters, Brenda Pisarski Mahoney (Tim), Victoria Pisarski Goldwater (Sam), Tracy Pisarski Huey (Chris), and his longtime partner, Sandi Skates and her daughter, Amber Winslow. Johnny held a special place in his heart for his nieces and nephews, Casey Lynn Jones (Peca), Desiree Kilgore (Jeremy), Quinton Jones (Lindsey), Katie Dickerson (Trevor), as well as numerous great nieces and nephews.

Johnny’s journey began on March 24, 1958, when he was born in Newport News, Virginia. He spent his formative years attending school until he embarked on a new chapter at Augusta Military Academy in Augusta, Virginia. Later, he ventured to Aviano, Italy, where he attended Aviano High School. After completing his studies, Johnny returned to the United States, ready to embrace the opportunities that awaited him.

Johnny entered the workforce with an enterprising spirit, initially joining a swimming pool company. However, he soon realized his dream of business ownership. He took the leap and established his own company, County Carbanations, based in York County, Virginia. Johnny’s determination and dedication led him to further success when he founded J.P. Marine, specializing in constructing piers and bulkheads. Johnny left an indelible mark on the local community through his entrepreneurial ventures.

Johnny’s true passion lay in the world of motorsports. From a young age, he displayed an innate love for speed and the thrill of competition. Whether he was behind the wheel of a motorcycle, a stock car, or even a lawn mower, Johnny’s need for speed was unwavering. His commitment to his craft served as an inspiration to those around him. His races represented his personal pursuits and served as a backdrop for cherished family moments and shared experiences.

Johnny’s racing journey began at Cycle Park in Newport News, where he showcased his skills on motorcycles. His talents extended to go-karts, and he fearlessly raced at Langley Raceway. As a champion in both the mini-stock and grand-stock classes, Johnny achieved great acclaim at Langley Raceway. Additionally, he was an integral member of Brent Robinson’s pit crew, supporting the late model class driver at Virginia Raceway in Saluda, Virginia. Throughout his career, Johnny amassed a remarkable collection of trophies, symbolizing his unwavering dedication and triumphs on the track.

Johnny’s legacy will endure in the hearts of those who knew him. He will forever be remembered as a devoted partner and esteemed member of the motorsports community.

Johnny Francis Pisarski, Jr., will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 15, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. at Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all those who have shown their support and offered condolences during this difficult time. Your kind words and gestures have provided solace and comfort.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home.

10 Comments

  1. Donnie and Sandy White

    Donnie Sandy and Dana remember all the good times we had boating with John at factory point Poquoson river. Wherever we went, in the boat John in his Fountain made sure we were going fast. We always have a good time and we will miss him.🚣🏿🙏

  2. Laura Moody

    Traveling to Virginia from Illinois to vacation with our cousins was always fun. Johnny played a lot of practical jokes on us and often got in trouble for it, like the one time he dumped a bunch of frogs into our lemonade. He was quite a character. Since I never had any brothers, he became the brother I never had. My condolences to his sisters and his family. I haven’t seen him in person since I was a child and he will always be remembered.

  3. Kippe Oneil

    John was certainly a special guy. His talent in solving waterfront issues and related problems was amazing. He helped Michael and I so much with our Chesapeake Bay property, we will always be grateful for his help.
    I spoke to him recently regarding his health and his hospital stay and we laughed and I was looking forward to seeing him in Buckroe. We will miss his friendship.

  4. Kim Lambright

    He will always hold a special place in the hearts of our family. If there was ever a problem he was the first to offer a solution. He was a great guy and friend to my husband Cliff. He looked out for my kids Nate & Addison. My daughter would call him “Jaws” John because he loved the water and looked like Quinn from Jaws. He will truly be missed. My heart goes out to his friends and family.

  5. Millie Warren

    I have many great childhood memories with John & his sisters. Rest in Peace my sweet cousin. You are now with your Mom and brother Jamie. Prayers for all who new him. 💔

  6. Art Robinson

    Great friend, Many fun and memorable times at Langley as well as at his shop. Never a dull moment with him. I will miss you my friend.

  7. Thomas G. Campbell Jr.

    John was surely a wonderful guy, always full of surprises! His character will surely be missed by all that knew him.
    My Heart goes out to family and friends!!!
    He helped me tremendously with boat motors, to changing motor in my step van years back!!!
    Big hearted guy!!!

  8. Rob Duncan

    That baritone voice echoes trough my mind when I think of speaking with Johnny. I would say “Johan,” and he would answer, “Kid.” And then we would ramble on about nothing, but chatting about nothing with Johnny was everything. I would go to his house and just hang out and then see if I might be able on this night to get him to come out with me and have a little fun on the town. That rarely ever happened. I befriended Johnny through mutual acquaintances in the late ’70’s / early ’80’s but interestingly enough it did not involve cars or racing. I new he liked both but that was not what our relationship was about. He would, however, at times take me in this ’69 Camaro/Commander across the James River Bridge and challenge me to take off a $20 bill he put on the dash when he floored it. (I never could.) He hired me over a few summers and I worked for he and Butch building and repairing pools. We spent a lot of time riding together to and from the job sites and talking, Johnny in the Chevy Van and Butch in the Ford Van. Johnny had a tough guy exterior but to those who really know him, he was a kind, gentle and spiritual man. I haven’t seen Johan in 15 years. We did speak last year. It didn’t matter. We picked up right where we left off. I know he is at the right side of the Lord and I look forward to joining him and continuing this eternal relationship we have built. God still has much for us and several other close friends to do.
    Bless Brenda, Vicky, Tracy and his close family and significant others.
    And Good Bless Johnny!

    Kid

    • Tracy

      Would have loved to see you today! Saw the rest of the DU gang ….you were missed! Thank you for the kind words… he cherished your friendship and I as well will always hold a special place in my heart for you.
      Tracy

  9. Alex Caruso

    Hi to all, Alex Caruso, I googled Johnny because I will probably be coming to NN to visit a client and was looking to connect aftrr more than 20 years – I was devastated when i saw the obituary.
    Johnny, Vicky and Tracy went to Aviano HS together and then when I went to CNC we continued our friendship. Johnny was a true buddy and will be missed. Vicky, if you want to reach out, my e-mail is: alex@vanitacasa.it

    Rest in peace my friend.

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