Obituary of John C. Schilling

John Charles Schilling, age 81, devoted husband and father, impeccable dresser, foodie and lover of fine wines, died on Friday, April 27, 2018 surrounded by his loving family. John was born and grew up in the streets of South Philly, the son of a waiter / cab driver (father) and florist (mother). As a young boy, John worked with his mother in her shop designing beautiful floral arrangements, a talent he carried with him throughout his life. To support his family, John later worked at an insurance company and this is where he met the love of his life, Aline. John enlisted the support of Aline's best friend, Bunny, to help convince Aline that she should go out on a date with him. After a short courtship, John asked Aline's father for permission to marry his daughter, who in no uncertain terms declined his request. But anyone who knew John knew he was a persistent man and did not take no for an answer. Eventually, he received the family's blessings and married Aline when they were both just 18 years old. The couple settled in Northeast Philly where John went to work for Castle Industries, a small manufacturing business. He worked his way up to plant manager, and then bought the business and employed many city residents with good paying jobs. After a long run of successful years in business, John sold his company and spent many happy years retired in Palm Coast, Florida. In 2016, John and Aline moved to the Maris Grove retirement community in Glen Mills, Pennsylvania. More than anything, John was a family man and adored his three children, Renee Schilling Zajack (deceased), Jacqueline Schilling Holt (Scott), and Johnny Schilling (Rose). He showered his family with affection and love, and fulfilled the American promise by ensuring all of his children attended and graduated college. John loved spending time with his family on vacations in Europe and Florida, and treasured the times they spent at Disney World. John took fashion cues from no one. His signature look was a uniform neon color outfit (Tweety Bird yellow a favorite) with white loafers with a gold buckle. He had a smile for everyone he met, and would go to great lengths to help any friend or family member in times of need. John will be missed by his wife Aline with whom he was married for over 62 years. He leaves behind his daughter Jacqueline and son Johnny, five grandchildren, Jordan Zajack, Nicholas Napoletano, Joelle Napoletano, John Schilling, Danielle Schilling, and the many friends who enjoyed his company throughout the years. A Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, May 1, 2018 at 10 a.m. at Saint Cornelius Catholic Church in Chadds Ford, PA where friends may call from 8:30-9:45 a.m.. Interment, S.S. Peter and Paul Cemetery, Springfield, PA.