Shrewsbury – John P. Demoga Jr., 61, of Shrewsbury passed away peacefully at home Saturday, Sept. 5, 2015, surrounded by his loving family, after a long and courageous battle against ALS.
John was born in Worcester, the son of Rose( Boraccini ) Demoga and John P. Demoga Sr. He graduated from St. John’s High School in Shrewsbury and went on to earn BS from Northeastern University and MA/CAGS from Assumption College.
In addition to being a devoted son to his parents, Rose and John, John was the beloved husband of 36 years to Diane (Elworthy) Demoga, who tirelessly cared for him throughout his illness. He was the most incredible father imaginable to Cara and Jonathan Demoga. John is survived by brothers-“in-law” David Elworthy and wife Susan, Alan Elworthy and wife Rosanne, Mark Elworthy and wife Ann, and Ken Elworthy and wife Heidi. His brother-in-law, Francis Elworthy, predeceased him. He also leaves behind his sister-in-law, Debora Dolan and husband Michael, and mother-in-law, Jeanne Siemazsko. Additionally, John is survived by the significant others to his children, Patrick Donoghue and Lea Reyes, and many nieces, nephews, cousins and an uncle, all to whom he was close.
Prior to his recent retirement, John dedicated his life to helping others as a psychologist in the Westborough Public Schools System for over 30 years, where he also served in the role of Director of Special Education.
John loved to help people. He had a great sense of humor and loved to make people smile. He made many friends in Westborough with whom he remained close through his final days.
John’s biggest joy in life was family and his role as son, dad, and husband. He loved cooking with his mother and son, talking history with his father, traveling with his wife and children, politics, reading, radio and Boston Sports. Prior to his illness, a recent highlight was being able to see the Red Sox win the World Series in Fenway Park with his daughter. John adored dogs, especially English springer spaniels.
Over the last few years, John tackled his illness with the utmost strength, courage and dignity, inspiring us every day. No matter what he always found a reason to flash us that smile. His untimely loss leaves our hearts forever broken.
In addition to our family and friends, the Demogas wish to thank Compassionate Care ALS (CCALS), Beacon, TEAM GLEASON, MGH, Brigham and Women’s, UMass, the town of Shrewsbury first responders, and all who have helped us to navigate through this difficult journey. The family kindly requests that donations be made in John’s memory to CCALS at www.ccals.org/donation_IMO.php.
Family and friends are invited to calling hours Thursday, Sept. 10, from 4-7 p.m., at Britton-Shrewsbury Funeral Home. His funeral Mass will be celebrated Friday, Sept. 11, at 10 a.m., in St. Mary’s Church, 640 Main St., Shrewsbury.
