Fortunato Colombo's Obituary
Fortunato "Jack" Colombo
January 28, 1931 – January 27, 2025
Fortunato “Jack” Colombo, of Milton, DE, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family, on January 27, 2025. Born in Darby, PA, on January 28, 1931, he was the son of the late Fortunato and Lydia (Albini) Colombo.
Jack was a true entrepreneur, building a life around hard work, ambition, and a deep love for people. Over the years, he successfully owned and operated a valet parking business, a restaurant, and a motel. A proud U.S. Navy veteran, he honorably served overseas during the Korean War.
Jack’s passion for fitness remained strong throughout his life. Even into his 90s, he was dedicated to his daily workouts, sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm with those around him. After retirement, he continued to inspire others by working at the Dave Marshall Tennis & Fitness facility and Midway Gym, where he made lasting connections with fellow fitness enthusiasts.
Beyond fitness, Jack had a lifelong love for sports. He played and coached various sports throughout his life and was a devoted Philadelphia sports fan. Whether watching, listening, or reading about the latest updates, he and his wife, Barbara, were always engaged in cheering on the Philadelphia Eagles, Phillies, and 76ers.
Jack also had an adventurous spirit and a deep love for the beach. He and Barbara traveled the world together, exploring exotic destinations and making cherished memories.
Above all, Jack will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose warmth, energy, and generosity touched the lives of many. His ability to connect with people and create laughter wherever he went was a true gift to everyone who knew him.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents, his son Jeffrey Colombo, his grandchildren Steven Niessner Jr., Heather Niessner, and great-grandchild Cekaiya Alexander. He is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara Mae (Diem) Colombo, and his loving family. He leaves behind his children: Norman Niessner Jr., Paul Colombo (wife Lisa), Terrilynn Alexander (late husband Clarence), Steven Niessner (girlfriend Christine), David Colombo, Lisa Colombo, and Jack Colombo (wife Justine). He is also survived by his grandchildren: Sonya Dandy (late husband Robert), Norman Niessner III (wife Shanna), James Niessner (wife Lori), Charity Greb (husband Zane), Paul Colombo Jr., Clarence Alexander Jr. (wife Tayna), Joseph and Janelle Alexander, Sharon Stuckey (husband Jerome), Brandon Niessner (wife Kelsey), Mason, Liam, and Colton Courtney, and Madison and Colette Colombo. Jack was blessed with great-grandchildren: Ajahnique, Marcellis, and Rhyenne Dandy, Sharlie, Zoie, and Noah Niessner, D'Morah and Cyris Alexander, Chris Reyes, Henry, Katherine, and Taisha Barreiro, Joseph Alexander Jr., Shanice, Key'Ara, London, Moriah Alexander, Marquan White, Marquis, Makel, Cekaiya, and Mazin Stuckey. Additionally, his legacy lives on through his great-great-grandchildren: Sarai Dandy, Messiah Candelar-Dandy, N'dalyia, Royal, Prince and Devon Alexander, Niamai and Navy Reyes, Violet Barreiro, Noah Bennett, Xavier, and Kahlani Stuckey.
A funeral service will be held at St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Lewes, Delaware, on March 10, 2025. The viewing will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m. Following the service, a luncheon will be held at 12:30 PM at Irish Eyes, 213 Angler's Rd., Lewes, DE.
Jack’s legacy of perseverance, kindness, and zest for life will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Please sign the virtual guestbook located on the tribute page.
FLORIST NOTE: PLEASE DELIVER ALL ARRANGEMENTS BY 3:00 PM ON SATURDAY, MARCH 8, 2025, TO OUR LEWES LOCATION.
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