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John Richard Smirga, 83, passed away peacefully on Aug. 4, 2026 in Wynnewood, PA, surrounded by his loving family. Born on Jan. 20, 1943 in Port Chester, NY to John Richard Smirga and Theresa Donato, John grew up in Mamaroneck, NY, and lived a life defined by faith, family and community service.
John graduated from Villanova University with a BS in Civil Engineering and went on to obtain his Master of Science in Structural Engineering from Newark College of Engineering. A respected Professional Engineer, John contributed his expertise to major corporations including Wyeth and Merck, while also establishing his own successful practice, John Smirga & Assoc, PC. Throughout his career, he earned the deep respect and admiration of his business associates and peers.
A man of profound Christian faith, John was an active member of his church community. He was a dedicated member of the Knights of Columbus, serving honorably as Grand Knight during the 2008-2009 fraternal year. Guided by his strong humanitarian spirit, John gave freely to numerous charitable causes and organizations throughout his long life.
Outside of his professional and charitable endeavors, John was passionate about collecting coins, stamps and historical documents. He amassed a collection worthy of a museum and never hesitated to teach about and display it proudly. An avid sports fan, he especially loved cheering for his beloved Villanova Wildcats and was thrilled beyond measure when the Eagles finally won the Super Bowl in 2017. He would watch any sporting event on TV on any given day! Above all, John cherished the time spent with family and friends, who loved him dearly for his warmth, generosity, and steadfast character.
John was preceded in death by his wives Barbara and Jean, his father John, mother Theresa, and sister Dorothy Ann Nagel. He is survived by his beloved wife, Connie, his children Donna (Frank), Christopher (Linda) and John (Anne); grandchildren Victoria (Jessica), Cody, MacKayla (Andrew), Luke (Leah) and Charlotte.
A visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 11th, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at Donohue Funeral Home (3300 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square, PA, 19073). Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday August 12th, at St. Mary Magdalen Parish (2400 N. Providence Rd, Media, PA19063), beginning with a viewing at 10:00 am, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 am. He will be laid to rest at SS. Peter and Paul Cemetery (1600 Sproul Rd, Springfield, PA 19064).
In lieu of flowers, donations in John’s memory may be made to World Vision, https://www.worldvision.org/donate.
Tuesday, August 11, 2026
6:00 - 8:00 pm (Eastern time)
Donohue Funeral Home - Newtown Square
Wednesday, August 12, 2026
10:00 - 11:00 am (Eastern time)
St. Mary Magdalen Church
Wednesday, August 12, 2026
Starts at 11:00 am (Eastern time)
St. Mary Magdalen Church
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