John Dominguez

John “Pudgy” Dominguez, 64, passed away peacefully on March 7, 2025, surrounded by his loving family and girlfriend. His passing leaves a deep void in the hearts of all who knew and loved him, but his legacy of love, laughter, and generosity will live on forever.

Born on March 20, 1960, in Montclair, New Jersey, John was the beloved eldest son of the late Lupe and Josephine Dominguez. Raised in East Orange, New Jersey, John was known from an early age for his warmth, loving kindness, sense of humor, and adventurous spirit. He graduated from Bloomfield Technical School, where he developed his love and skills in automotive repair, electrical, plumbing and carpentry work and went on to pursue a career as a master autobody technician. 

John dedicated his career to fixing cars for over 47+ years. He was respected for his prodigious work ethic, leadership, kindness to colleagues and sense of humor. He took great pride in his work and the relationships he built along the way.

But it was John's life outside of work that truly defined him. Known affectionately as "Pudgy," he had a big heart and an even bigger smile and would help anyone in a time of need. He had a love for fitness and would work out at least five days a week. He would make anyone he met feel welcome and could easily spark a conversation with a stranger. He was gifted as a handy person and could easily build or repair something without instructions. He was always the person that could fix something that was broken. And on weekends, although he rarely spent time on the couch, you could find him fishing, taking hikes and cheering on his favorite team—the Dallas Cowboys.

John was a devoted father to his sons, Anthony Dominguez and his wife Rebecca, and Joseph Dominguez. His greatest joy was spending time with his boys, whether it was fishing, watching football, creating things and helping them with whatever they needed. He was immensely proud of the men they became and the lives they are building. He wouldn’t pass up an opportunity to brag about his sons.

He was also a loving and dedicated brother to Lydia Najera and her husband Gene, Joanne Kellenbenz and her husband Edward, Jacqueline Wilson and her husband David, Joseph Dominguez and his wife Heather, and his late brother Jimmy. His bond with his siblings was strong, built on shared memories, laughter, and unwavering support. He was the cherished stepson of Lilia Dominguez and remained a dear friend to his former wife, Michele Dominguez.

Almost five years ago, John found happiness with his loving girlfriend, Annalisa Natilla, who brought him great joy and companionship. John also was like a second dad to her son, Frank. Together, they shared many adventures and quiet moments that meant the world to them both. Surprisingly, they also spent a lot of time fishing together and after just a few months of getting to know her he took it upon himself to redo her bathrooms because that’s how much he cared.

John was predeceased by his parents, Lupe and Josephine Dominguez, and his brother Jimmy Dominguez, whom he held close in his heart every day.

John will be remembered for his smile, love of classic cars, fishing, hiking outdoors, his rescued cat 8 Ball, his devotion to his family and girlfriend, and his unwavering kindness to friends and strangers alike. To know him was to know laughter, loyalty, and love.

He leaves behind a large and loving family, including many aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends who will miss him dearly but hold his memory close.

Visitation at the Leonardis Memorial Home, Inc., 210 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park on Wednesday, March 12th from 1-4pm. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in John’s name to the American Heart Association, see donation box below for details….

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