John Niles Christofaro

John Niles Christofaro, John John, of Charlestown and formerly of Narragansett, peacefully left this earth on Sunday, August 4, 2024, just one month shy of his 62nd birthday. John was an amazing human being who lived life to its fullest with no regard for the physical and developmental challenges put on his path. He was loved beyond measure by family and friends. It can be said that John never met a stranger! He was a favorite with many waiters and waitresses around southern Rhode Island who knew his breakfast order and said “Hi, John,” as soon as he walked in… somewhat akin to Norm on Cheers! He loved all animals, golf, slot machines, bowling, taking car rides, and of course CAWFEE! He was a regular participant in the Rhode Island Special Olympics and won many medals… making everyone laugh when he wanted to win the Bronze rather than the Gold medal. John loved to travel and had a large map of the United States in his bedroom with push pins indicating where he visited or wanted to visit. And his postcard and t-shirt collection are the stuff of legends!

John was simply adored by his family, not to say he couldn’t get on your last nerve and then look at you with that sweet grin. Predictably, laughter soon ensued. He was always included and an integral part of every family celebration… from the summer barbeques and clambakes to holiday gatherings, to birthday parties, and special events and dinners at the Elks Club sitting at the bar flirting with bartender.

John was predeceased by his father, Thomas “Tucker” Christofaro, his grandfather, Dominic Christofaro, and his grandmothers Mary Christofaro and Margaret Baker. He is survived by his beloved mother Elizabeth Baker Christofaro, brother Joseph Christofaro and his wife Noreen, his favorite niece Kaitlyn Christofaro, and his amazing sister Jennie Christofaro and her husband David Cheek, who provided John a home and have lovingly devoted themselves to John’s care for the past eight years. John also enjoyed a large family of seven aunts and uncles, Mary Thomas, Bob Christofaro, John Christofaro, Joseph Christofaro, Margaret Zanella, Dennis Christofaro, and Tina Koebel who loved and embraced him. And let’s not forget the 15 cousins and hundreds (perhaps thousands) of friends who were a big part of his life.

It was a good and well-lived life, BUDDY! Our hearts are broken but we take comfort in the fact that we will see you again.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, August 9th at 10:00am in St. Francis of Assisi Church, 114 High St., Wakefield. Burial will be private.

Visiting hours will be Thursday, August 8th, from 5:00pm to 7:00pm in Avery-Storti Funeral Home, 88 Columbia St., Wakefield.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made in John’s name to Special Olympics Rhode Island, 370 George Washington Hwy, Smithfield, RI 02917 or Hope Hospice and Palliative Care, 1085 North Main Street, Providence, RI 02904.