John Charles Glista 1943-2025

He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of 57 years, Mary Ann Vasilchek Glista; son, Damien (Kelly), and grandsons, Adam and Dylan; and son, David (Katrina), and grandchildren, Allison and Michael.

As the oldest of eight children born to Andrew and Adele Pahut Glista, John leaves his brothers, Andrew and Donald; and sisters, Andrea Bowen, Mary Tarantino, Bernadette Saunders and Francine McBride. He also leaves many nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren and two honorary grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his parents and brother, Paul.

Born in Youngstown on Aug. 21, 1943, he attended St. Matthias Elementary School through eighth grade and was a proud Class of 1961 graduate of Cardinal Mooney High School. He went on to Youngstown State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering in 1966.

John first worked as an airplane tire engineer at B.F. Goodrich in Akron, and went on to make his career of 35 years with Naval Air Systems Command in Washington, D.C. and Patuxent River, Maryland. He went on to become the national leader for Naval Aviation Subsystems and received the Meritorious Civilian Service Award when he retired in 2004. His passion for his work was driven by his desire to protect our warfighters. He always respected and took care of his co-workers and was a true mentor and leader. He was dedicated to recruiting the best and brightest employees. John represented the United States Navy at multiple NATO meetings in Brussels.

A musician since his elementary school days and coming from a musical family, John played the clarinet and saxophone in many bands and groups at weddings and other gigs. He loved playing all kinds of music, from classics to polkas to rock. John was the ultimate handyman and craftsman at home. He loved working with wood and had his garage turned into a shop. He loved working on cars, a skill learned from his father and passed on to his sons. He spent many summers on his boat, enjoying the beauty and relaxation of the Chesapeake Bay.

We would like to thank family, friends and neighbors for supporting John during his battle. Special thanks to sister-in-law, Dorothy Vasilchek, who used her nursing skills to provide him with superior care throughout the many medical ordeals he endured; and to his brother, Drew, who provided constant companionship, giving John an emotional lift.

Donations in John’s memory can be made to Cardinal Mooney High School or the Prostate Cancer Foundation.

Share a memory with the family at FairfaxMemorialFuneralHome.com.

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