John J. Conlow

A devoted husband, loving grandfather, lifelong neighbor, and a man you felt like you'd known forever.

John Conlow passed away peacefully after a short illness, surrounded by his loving family. He was 87.

John was a devoted husband and a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He showed up to games, events, and anything he possibly could, right up until his later years. His presence meant everything, and when he was there, he made it count.

He shared a lifelong love with his wife, Kathryn (Kass), the true love of his life. They really loved each other and you could feel it. Together, they made everything special, especially the holidays. Their bond was full of laughter, warmth, and a deep sense of joy that brought people together.

Born and raised in the Manayunk and Roxborough neighborhoods of Philadelphia, John was a neighborhood legend. He might not have remembered everyone's name, but he always made you feel like he knew exactly who you were. If you ran into him on the street, be prepared to stop, because he'd either make you laugh or make you feel special. Once you met him, it felt like you'd known him your whole life.

John proudly served his country in the Navy before devoting his career to serving the city he loved as a Philadelphia firefighter. He retired from the department but never stopped looking out for others. He also volunteered his time with the American Cancer Society and as a Big Brother, always willing to help and support those around him. He was the kind of guy who just showed up. No fanfare, just there when it mattered.

He loved his Irish heritage, especially the music and culture. He was a proud Philadelphian through and through.. A fan of the Phillies, the Eagles, and the Mummers. He especially loved talking about where to find the best cheesesteak … and food always seemed to sneak into his stories, whether it happened yesterday or 30 years ago.

John was always ready to crack a joke or sit down and have a beer. He was a salt-of-the-earth guy with a great sense of humor, someone everyone loved to be around.

His family will miss him terribly, and so will his neighbors and community. But the kindness, the courage, the humor, and the heart he brought into the world … that will live on. Everyone who knew him was changed by him, and that's the kind of legacy that never fades.

We will miss you Dad, Pop-Pop, Big John, Mr. Conlow

Family and friends are invited to a visitation on Friday, July 18, at 9:00 AM,

followed by the funeral at 10:30 AM at St. John the Baptist Church in Philadelphia.

Inurnment will take place at St. John's Mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, and in honor of John's deep involvement with cancer patients and his work with the American Cancer Society, we kindly ask that donations be made to a local charity close to our hearts: Steppin' with Stoffere a non-profit Philadelphia-based organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families battling cancer.

Checks can be made payable to Steppin' with Stoffere

or Venmo donations may be sent to @steppinwithstoffere (https://venmo.com/steppinwithstoffere).

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