Obituary of John C. Gherardi
John Gherardi, 75, of Somers, New York, passed away on April 30, 2025. A devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and dedicated educator, John leaves behind a rich legacy of kindness, commitment, and community service.
Born on March 14, 1950, John spent four decades as a physical education teacher in the Mt. Vernon public schools, where he also coached football and track and field. In addition to his work in Mt. Vernon, he coached football and track and field in Somers for many years. His passion for mentoring young people extended well beyond the classroom—he was a steady presence, a source of encouragement, and a role model for generations of students and athletes in both communities.
John is survived by his beloved wife, Julie Gherardi of Somers, NY, with whom he shared a life full of love, laughter, and travel during their retirement years. He is also survived by his eldest son, Joe Gherardi, of Reno, Nevada; Joe’s wife, Dr. Harper Massey; and their two children, Harlin and Holden Gherardi. His youngest son, James Gherardi, resides in Chicago, Illinois with his fiancé, Matt Arhar.
In addition, John is survived by his sister, Joyce Vettorino; his brother, Tom Gherardi, and wife, Linda; and his aunt, Mary Gherardi. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law Josephine Piscitell and her husband Sam, and Jessi Princiotto and her husband Randy Nargi. He leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.
John will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his warm and generous spirit, and the countless lives he touched as a teacher, coach, and friend. His presence will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege to know him.
John’s family will receive friends on Sunday, May 4th from 3:00 to 5:00pm at Clark Associates Funeral Home, 4 Woods Bridge Road, Katonah, NY followed by a prayer service at 5:00pm.
On Monday, May 5, the interment will be at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Hawthorne, NY at 10:00am.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests contributions be made in his memory to the American Heart Association or the Kidney Cancer Fund of the American Cancer Society.
