John Howard Pedrero's Obituary
John Howard Pedrero, 92, of Tampa, Florida, passed away peacefully on February 21, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on February 21, 1933, in Tampa, John was the son of Juan Pedrero and Augusta Paul Pedrero. He grew up in West Tampa and attended St. Joseph’s Catholic School, where he was positively influenced by Sr. Helen and the Salesian sisters. He later graduated from Jefferson High School in 1951.
Shortly after graduation, John proudly served his country as a corpsman in the U.S. Navy for four years. During his service, he was stationed in Hawaii—when it was still a U.S. territory—and later at the San Diego Naval Station. After completing his military service, he returned home to Tampa and earned his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Tampa in 1961.
In 1958, John married the love of his life, Pauline Ficarrotta Pedrero, with whom he shared a beautiful life of love and devotion.
John dedicated 30 years to education, teaching in the Hillsborough County public school system at Gary, Town & Country, Van Buren, and Sligh Junior High Schools. He also taught rapid reading at Hillsborough Community College and mentored college-bound students through Project Upward Bound at the University of South Florida during the summers.
In retirement, John and Pauline cherished their time with their beloved grandsons, Jacob and Donovan, creating lasting memories through their many adventures together.
A devout Catholic, John and Pauline were members of the Third Order of St. Francis. He faithfully served as a Eucharistic minister at St. Joseph’s Hospital for many years and also as a lector and Eucharistic minister at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. In his later years, he was a dedicated member of St. Lawrence Catholic Church.
John is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Pauline; his son, John (Kathy); and his grandsons, Jacob (Samantha) and Donovan. He is preceded in death by his parents, Juan and Augusta Pedrero, and his sister, Dolores Barcelona.
A funeral Mass will be held at St. Lawrence Catholic Church on Thursday, March 13, at 11:00 AM. The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM to 10:45 AM.
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