John Angelis ascended to heaven on July 21. He succumbed after an eight month battle against an aggressive form of Leukemia. Born and raised in Irvington, N.J., John relocated to the peninsula in 2004.
John’s life would seem too short to many, however, those who were touched by his knowledge and good nature understand that the imprint he left on our hearts exceeds the quantity of time he stayed here.
His career on the peninsula included being the painting foreman for Argos Construction Co. in 2008 during the construction of the new tower at Peninsula Regional Medical Center in Salisbury. He became a dealer at Dover Downs Casino in 2010 before successfully launching John Angelis Painting and Decorating in 2011.
When John wasn’t serving customers, he enjoyed all aspects of the antique car community. He owned a 1951 F51 Frazer and its mate, a 1951 Kaiser Deluxe Club Coupe. John also shared his passion by organizing car shows that raised funds for various causes, including two shows for Dove Pointe in Salisbury, two shows for the Seaford District Library, and most recently two shows for the Blades Volunteer Fire Company.
John was the manager of the Mid-Atlantic region of the Kaiser-Frazer Owners Club International. He and his wife traveled all over the U.S. with their antique vehicles to attend Kaiser-Frazer functions. He was also a current member of the County Seat Cruisers and the Historical Vintage Car Club of Delaware, Inc.
John was a member of the Eastern Shore Region of AACA (ESR-AACA) and served as its president in 2008. The organization presented him with the club’s highest award, the “Dick Furniss Award for Most Outstanding Service” in 2009.
John was also a member of the Western Sussex Chamber of Commerce, rarely missing a meeting and donating his services every year to raise funds for the organization.
John also had a passion for ballroom dancing, which culminated as a 10 Dance Ballroom Dance champion in 1992. In the ensuing four years he met and married his dance partner Stephanie in 1996. They competed, performed, and taught ballroom dancing in many venues during their 30 years together.
Not a day went by where John didn’t talk excessively about his wife, extended family, friends, cars, and work.
John is survived by his loving wife, Stephanie, her children Mitchell and (wife) Karen, Stuart and (wife) Lorraine, seven grandchildren and their spouses, five great-grandchildren, his brother Elias, and countless friends. John was predeceased by his parents, Nick and Jenny, and sister, Maryanne.
Many times one does not realize how important or takes for granted local volunteer fire companies and their EMS crews. Blades EMS responded many times, always late at night, quickly, quietly and efficiently, to transport John to the hospital.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution to the Blades Volunteer Fire Company, 200 East Fifth Street, Blades, DE 19973 to support their response to community needs.