Mr. John I. Mascari

February 17, 1921 - December 26, 2017

John I. Mascari, 96, of Asheville passed away on Tuesday, December 26, 2017. A native of Asheville, John was the son of the late Charles and Mary Mercurio Mascari. He was also preceded in death by his beloved wife of 40 years, Wilhelmina Davis Mascari. John was the owner of Stop and Shop on Haywood Street where he sold imported fancy foods. An avid sports fan, he played tennis until the age of 86. A veteran of the US Navy having served in WWII, John was a lifelong member of the Basilica of St. Lawrence and St. Eugene’s Catholic Church. He was also a long time member of the Knights of Columbus. John is survived by his three children, Kitty Mascari Kelekci and Jim and Jack Mascari all of Asheville. He is also survived by his five grandchildren, John, Deniz and Michael and Kelekci, Kinsley Mascari and Isabel Mascari; and two great grandchildren, Leyla and Arianna Kelekci. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, December 30, 2017 at 10:30 AM at the Basilica of St. Lawrence with the Very Rev. Wilbur N. Thomas officiating. Burial will follow at Lewis Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at Morris Funeral Home, 304 Merrimon Ave., on Friday, December 29th from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM with a Rosary Service at 7:00 PM. In lieu of flowers the family asks memorial donations in John’s name may be made to a charity of one’s choice.