John Joseph Caraba, Sr.

John Joseph Caraba SR, 77, a resident of Cape Coral, FL since 1993, and formerly a resident of New York and its boroughs, passed away at his home on December 19, 2023. He is survived by his only son, John JR.

A loving, devoted, caring father, and a true friend to all who knew him; he was a kind and generous man with an enormous heart who would think nothing of helping even an absolute stranger.

John SR was born in Manhattan, New York on October 3rd, 1946, to parents Sam and Millie Caraba, the second of two children. He had a strong relationship with his late brother, Anthony.

He was proud of his Sicilian and New York heritage, growing up in the Brooklyn borough of Long Island. He worked a career in Waste Management for the city of Manhattan and the surrounding area for much of his adult life, returning from Florida after owning a small business to finish his pension until he was unfortunately injured on the job in 2003 and retired back to Cape Coral.

John SR always had a passion for automotive pursuits; those that knew him knew of his fondness for muscle cars of the era of his youth, where he found success in amateur drag racing. In his free time, he also enjoyed engaging in poker tournaments and “playing the odds” on derby horse racing (which he had down to a science) and was a regular at the Bonita Springs Greyhound Track.

Additionally, his fondness for cats (both large and small) was reflected profoundly in his home, which he turned into a “jungle” like haven for his beloved cat, Max.

His larger-than-life personality ensured that anyone who met him would not forget him; from his thick New York accent (he often went by the nickname “Johnny Brooklyn”) to his penchant for bluntness and off-color comedy. He will be missed dearly and absolutely.

Friends are invited to send condolences via the on-line guest book which can be found at www.MullinsMemorial.com.

Mullins Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Cape Coral, is entrusted with final care.