In the tender embrace of a quiet Sunday, the world said its soft goodbye to John Herman Weiss on August 27, 2023. With the comforting backdrop of Rehoboth Beach, DE, and encircled in the warmth of family, John’s vibrant journey came to its tranquil close.
Born on March 24, 1945, in the spirited streets of Philadelphia, PA, John’s youth flourished within the hallways of Caesar Rodney High School, from where he graduated in 1964. His sense of duty beckoned him to the 125th Air Traffic Control Company, 25th Infantry, where he served as a Radio Teletype Crypto Operator amidst the throes of Vietnam. The nation’s gratitude for his service was etched in the Purple Heart he received upon his honorable discharge.
Afterwards, John found himself immersed in the intricate processes at the Reichhold Chemical Plant in Cheswold, DE. Following a commendable 35-year stint, he offered his skills to the Town of Milton. But it wasn’t just his profession that defined John. He was an ardent car aficionado, a man whose heart found rhythm in the tug of a fishing line, and whose feet found solace on the running tracks. The wind under his wings propelled him through seven marathons, with the iconic streets of the Boston Marathon being his favorite.
However, his true magic was beheld through the lens of his camera. “Pa,” as his grandchildren fondly called him, encapsulated life’s fleeting moments with grace, with one of his stunning captures gracing the cover of Beach Life Magazine. His love for hummingbirds, Metallica’s melodies, the thrilling narratives of the Terminator movies, the whimsy of Marvin the Martian, and the cool shade of his myriad sunglasses painted a vivid picture of a man brimming with passion and quirks.
John was the heartbeat of his family. His sarcasm brought chuckles, his photography stilled moments, and his presence was a comfort. He leaves behind an ocean of memories with his loving wife, Kathleen Weiss; his children: Megan (Jason) Spangler, Nicole (Scott) Pierce, Shannon (Ben) Faden, Andrew (Shauni) Collins; cherished grandchildren, and an extended family who adored him.
The sacred Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Tuesday, September 5th, at 11:00 AM at St. Edmond’s Church, Rehoboth Beach, DE. An hour prior, at 10:00 AM, loved ones can gather to remember and celebrate John. Military honors will be bestowed upon him at 1:00 PM at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Millsboro, DE.
The Weiss family would be touched if, in lieu of flowers, well-wishers considered making a heartfelt contribution to the Sussex County VA Clinic, Georgetown, DE, in John’s cherished memory.