John Angelo Saracco, age 79, of Hollywood, Florida, passed away peacefully on July 27, 2025, surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born on August 29, 1945, in New Haven, Connecticut, John and his family moved to South Florida in the 1950’s where he attended Edison High School and discovered his passion for music. A gifted pianist with a deep appreciation for all genres, John found his greatest joy entertaining friends and family around his beloved piano.
During the golden era of the 1960s, John performed with his band, The Checkmates, at many of Miami Beach’s premier resorts, including the Eden Roc and Cadillac Hotel. His musical talent and vibrant spirit left lasting impressions on audiences and fellow musicians alike.
In addition to his love of music, John was an avid reader and a devoted student of history. He cherished thoughtful conversation and lifelong learning.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Joseph. John is survived by his beloved wife, Amalia Nye Saracco; his devoted son, Jonathan (Michelle) Saracco; and many extended family members and friends who will forever hold him in their hearts.
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, August 2, 2025 from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM at Boyd- Panciera Family Funeral Funeral Care, 1600 N. University Drive, Pembroke Pines , Florida 33024
For those unable to attend the visitation, the family is offering LIVE streaming of the Prayer Service and Tributes of a Lifetime Service on Saturday, August 2, 2025 beginning at 3:00 PM. The link to attend LIVE is on the Boyd-Panciera Family Funeral Care Facebook page at: Tributes of a Lifetime Service Livestream
** The livestream will start 5 minutes prior to the service on our Facebook page
Boyd-Panciera Family Funeral Care
Boyd-Panciera Family Funeral Care
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John Bartee
July 31, 2025, 7:53 pm
One of my best friends growing up in Miami. He will be missed, but he is in his eternal reward now! PTL
Russ Yester
August 1, 2025, 4:10 pm
I remember John well. We shared a few classes together and I was fortunate enough to call him a friend. Rest well John. You will be missed by all.
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Charles Santoriello
August 1, 2025, 4:13 pm
You were and will always be my best friend until we meet again Charlie
Walter L. Williams
August 1, 2025, 5:44 pm
Walter L. Williams
August 1, 2025
I have known John since he was 17 years old attending Miami Edison High School. We met in the Checkmates band. He played keyboards like no one his age. As a member of the band, he played in all the important venues in Miami and Miami Beach. He recorded an album with the band using the touring name of Hip City Five. He probably would not mention that because he didn’t think that it wasn’t such big deal. But it was! However, his greatest accomplishment was being loving father to his son Jonathan and his wife. However, the love of his life will always be Amalia and being remembered by his friends as the special musically talented, caring man.
Frank Barbera
August 1, 2025, 9:09 pm
Remembering fun Edison days with John on the JV football team and reminiscing at the reunions. RIP Pisano! 🍷🎹🍷
Joanie Bartee Elder
August 2, 2025, 8:04 pm
I will always remember hearing John playing the piano. Before AC our Windows were always open and his melodious sounds would fill the neighborhood. John was my brother’s friend as I was much younger, but through my brother I always kept up with him. Another one from our neighborhood growing up in Miami has now crossed over. With John I know I will see him again. He’s probably accompanying the heavenly choir!