John P. McCloskey

John Patrick McCloskey of West Grove, PA, passed away suddenly but peacefully on August 16, 2025. Born in Wilkes-Barre, PA, he was the son of the late Joseph McCloskey and Elizabeth McCloskey (nee Mack). He spent his youth in Mountaintop, PA in a close-knit community building many memories with his 3 brothers, aunts, uncles and cousins. It was there that he developed a deep love of the mountains, winter activities, history and the New York Yankees. John enjoyed a career in the Healthcare Service and Commercial Laundry Industry, including many years with the Marriott Corporation and managing his own firm. He served clients across the United States, earning an impeccable reputation among his peers.

John was the devoted husband of the late Mary Jean McCloskey (nee Jacobi) for more than 44 years. After meeting at a ski lodge in the Poconos where Mary Jean joined her friends to socialize, not ski, John told Mary Jean almost immediately that he knew he was going to marry her. His quiet, gentle demeanor complimented her exuberant spirit and talkative nature. The two shared a devotion to family and a love of exploring new restaurants and locations - often heading out on weekends to “take a ride” and report back on their adventures. John demonstrated his love for his wife most profoundly during her final months in 2022, navigating the challenges of her illness with grace and advocating for her wishes.

John was the loving father of Lauren (Bill) Hofmann, Carolyn (Dominick Chillemi) McCloskey, and Andrew (Rachel Craven) McCloskey. As a father, he was wise, steady and endlessly loving. His children believed there was no question he could not answer no matter how obscure the knowledge required, and nothing he could not fix. He gave them more than time and knowledge – offering unconditional love, quiet strength and unwavering support. Despite a busy work travel schedule, he never missed a game or event and was constantly planning fun outings and highlighting the TV guide to ensure the family was prepared to gather and watch programs together. He supported his children and daughter/sons-in-law in all aspects of their lives, including in their careers and parenthood.

John is also survived by his siblings Joseph McCloskey and Mark McCloskey (predeceased by oldest brother, George McCloskey). He shared a special bond with Mark from the time they were young children when Mark would climb out of his crib to venture to John’s room and sleep on the floor. He also felt very blessed to marry into a large family who always treated him as a son/brother. He loved to tease his sisters-in-law, while enjoying their delicious cooking, and banter with his brother and brothers-in-law about sports, particularly because he rooted for NY teams in a family of Philadelphia fans. He often commented on what a privilege it was to watch his 23 nieces and nephews grow into incredible adults, and loved celebrating each of their successes and milestones.

John’s most important role was devoted grandfather to his 3 “princesses” Sophia (15), Evelyn (6) and Lily (2), and 5 grandsons Jamie (16), Will (13), Chase (11), Luke (9), and Hunter (7). Nothing made him laugh harder or smile more broadly than hearing - or telling a story- about one of his grandkids. He relished each of their unique talents and personality traits. He was the mastermind behind countless family adventures, exposing each of them to numerous plays, battle reenactments, museums, amusement parks, movies, and festivals. His children often suggested that he should have a grandparenting blog because there was no activity in a 100 mile radius that he did not know about and research to determine if one or all of the grandchildren would enjoy it. He planned activities with care and excitement, teaching his grandchildren the importance of time and building memories - and he always ensured that there was plenty of room for candy and sugar. His support and love were quiet and gentle but his pride in them was unmistakable.

John never wanted to be the center of attention, but his presence always made those around him feel enveloped in kindness and support. “No” was not in his vocabulary, always answering his children, grandchildren and others with “I’ll figure it out”, “just tell me what you need” or “no problem”. He instilled curiosity and love of learning (particularly about history) in each of his children and grandchildren. He will be forever loved and missed for his steady guidance, gentle encouragement and unwavering loyalty and pride.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit the family Thursday, September 4th at 9:30 am at St. Maximilian Kolbe Church, 15 E. Pleasant Grove Road, West Chester, PA 19382, as well as to attend the Funeral Mass at 10:30 am. Interment SS Peter & Paul Cemetery, with luncheon to follow.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in John’s memory may be made to Hold the Door for Others, https://holdthedoor.com/ or Law Enforcement United, PA Division at https://leunited.org.