He was born on June 20, 1928 in Norway, the son of the late John C. and Mary (Sperandio) Parolini. He attended Norway High School and graduated in 1947. John played on championship basketball and football teams for the then Norway Vikings.

He was employed as a pipe fitter for the Niagara Paper Mill and was a member of the Paper Workers Union. He enjoyed the diversity and challenge that his work provided. He retired from the mill on June 1, 1990.

John loved being busy and was known as “Mr. Fix-It.” He restored a 1933 straight eight Pontiac touring sedan. He looked the part when he would don his 1930s style hat and vest and took it out for a ride.

He loved reading, visiting with family and friends, going to auctions, and listening to Telephone Time.

He enjoyed going to Julio’s garage to talk with the guys.

He was an avid gardener and had lush blueberry bushes.

When it was time to relax, he would watch or listen to all types of sports often with his wife Claire.

John enjoyed watching and following his children and grandchildren’s life, academic and athletic achievements and was always supportive.

Listening to John tell a joke or a story was so captivating as he put his whole self into the tale and brought you along with it.

Every Sunday evening at 7 o’clock sharp, he enjoyed a phone call from his brother Fran of Menasha Wisconsin to talk about “all kinds of things.”

He loved his family, Claire and the home they shared and that was always clear.

He was a happy and peaceful man. As he goes home to God, we know he remains both happy and peaceful.

John is survived by his wife, Claire; sons, Ric (Lori) Parolini of Wisconsin Rapids, Wis., Gregory (Betsy) Parolini of Ada, Mich., Jim (Wendy) Parolini of Norway; and daughters, Mary Kay (Mark) Ebeling of Norway and Kathy Parolini of Nashville, Tenn.; step-son, Bryan Pringle of Iron River; step-daughter, Tammy (Jim Kellogg) Pringle of Alpha; brother, Fran (Pat) Parolini of Menasha, Wis.; seven grandchildren and two step -grandchildren; four great -grandchildren and three step -great-grandsons; nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

He also was preceded in death by his sister, Rosemarie Parolini.

Private services will be held.

Condolences may be expressed to the family of John L Parolini online at www.jacobsfuneralhomeir.com

Funeral arrangements by the Jacobs Funeral Home of Iron River.