Known for his warmth, quick humor, and unwavering devotion to family and friends, John Mauskapf lived a life defined by hard work, generosity, and a spirit that brought people together.
John passed away peacefully on March 13, 2026 at approximately 2:35 a.m., surrounded by his family.
John shared a remarkable love story with his wife, Eileen. They had been together since they were teenagers and were married in 1974, building a life together grounded in partnership, laughter, and deep devotion to their family, including their two children, Jennifer and Phillip.
John was born in Brooklyn, New York, to Leon and Helen (Cresham) Mauskapf. He grew up in St. James, Long Island, alongside his siblings Robert, Gerard, and Ellen. He attended St. Philip and James School and later St. Anthony’s High School. From a young age he was industrious and known for his strong work ethic, beginning a newspaper route while still a boy. He was also an enthusiastic athlete, enjoying baseball and basketball and running cross country.
He went on to attend and graduate from Marist College in Poughkeepsie, New York, and soon after began building what would become a long and respected career in the hospitality industry. John first worked in hotel restaurant management with the Americana brand in Manhattan, where he developed the leadership skills and reputation that would define his professional life.
Over the years, his career brought him to many places and opportunities. He spent time helping manage family hotels in Montauk before returning to the Americana organization, which brought his family to Lancaster, Pennsylvania. There, John continued to build an exceptional reputation for his professionalism, warmth, and leadership in hospitality. He later served as manager of the Lancaster Country Club, where he was highly respected by members, colleagues, and staff alike.
Beyond his professional life, John was deeply devoted to his family and his community. During his years in Lancaster, he volunteered with the Boosters Club for the local youth soccer program and became a beloved and talented youth sports coach. He coached softball, baseball, and basketball, leading several teams to championships while also teaching young athletes important lessons about teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship. Many of the young people he coached remember him not only for his competitiveness and skill, but also for his encouragement and genuine care for each player.
After semi-retiring, John and Eileen moved full time to Naples, Florida. There they built new community and lovingly helped care for Eileen’s parents, Félix (Phil) and Maria. Even in retirement John remained active, working at Wilderness Country Club, where he continued to share his hospitality expertise and build lasting friendships.
In Naples, John was able to spend more time enjoying one of his favorite pastimes—golf. The game brought him great joy and introduced him to many wonderful friends in the Naples community. Whether on the golf course, coaching a team, or spending time with family and friends, John was known for his warmth, generosity, and lively sense of humor.
Above all, John was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who took great pride in the people he loved. How he loved being ‘Pop’ to his four grandchildren and getting to experience love and joy with them. Even while facing significant health challenges, he maintained his jovial spirit that so many cherished.
John is survived by his beloved wife, Eileen; his children, Jennifer Mauskapf Smalls (Dontai) and Phillip Mauskapf (Sarah); and his cherished grandchildren, Eliana and Daniel, and Patrick and Callen. He is also survived by his siblings, Robert Mauskapf (Peggy), Ellen (Mauskapf) Houghton (Loren), and sister-in-law Jo Anna Fisher (late Gerard Mauskapf). In addition, he leaves behind many beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews.
He will be remembered for his kindness, his sense of humor, his dedication to family and community, and the countless lives he touched through his work, his coaching, and his friendships.
Those who knew John will always remember his gift for storytelling, his welcoming and jovial spirit, and the way he loved bringing people together—often over one of his famously well-made cocktails. Above all, he believed deeply in family and in savoring life’s moments, often saying that the greatest joys were the ones that “make me proud and give me goosebumps”, and living always by the Golden Rule (“Do onto others as you would have them do onto you.”).
The best way to honor him is to keep his spirit alive by abiding by the Golden Rule and remembering him—the joy he brought to others and how deeply he loved his family and friends. “In everything do to others as you would have them do to you; for this is the law and the prophets.” Matthew 7:12.
The family is deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time and welcomes memories and stories from those whose lives John touched.
Just heard...Rest in Peace my friend