John H Arnao

John H. Arnao
September 19, 1953 – May 21, 2025

John H. Arnao, 71, of Burlington, NJ, passed away on May 21, 2025, in Philadelphia, PA, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Riverside, NJ, on September 19, 1953, John was a lifelong resident of Burlington, where he met his dear wife of 49 years, Roberta Arnao (née Britt). Together, they built a life rooted in love, community, and family.

John attended Fairleigh Dickinson University before beginning a distinguished 46-year career as a mechanical engineer with the United States Navy. He was deeply proud of his service and contributions, and he approached his work with the same quiet dedication that defined every area of his life.

John was a devoted husband, uncle, father, grandfather—and to many,  a father figure beyond his own kin. He is survived by his wife Roberta; his sons Jonathan Arnao (wife Sophia) and Matthew Arnao (wife Nicole); and his beloved grandchildren: Roman, Sophia, Gianna, Carly, and Macie. Over the years, John and Roberta opened their home and hearts to many, including nephews Logan and Holden, as well as Michael McHugh, a close family friend whom John loved like a son. He was a guiding presence and "Pop Pop" to Michael’s children, Mikey and Eleanor, and a beloved father figure to Michael and his wife, Heather. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who cherished his guidance and generosity.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Catherine and John Arnao.

A proud and active member of the Burlington community—and lifelong parishioner of St. Paul Church—John was known affectionately as the “Sheriff of Wellington” for the way he looked out for neighbors on Wellington Place. He inherited his father’s 1957 Chevrolet, which he restored to original condition and proudly showcased at car shows throughout the area. He was also an avid genealogy researcher, devoting countless hours to uncovering the history of his family and others. Through this passion, he made meaningful new connections across generations and continents—always driven by a desire to bring people together.

Selfless and humble, John never hesitated to lend a hand, share his time, or open his heart and wallet to those in need. His legacy lives on through the lives he touched, the family he raised, and the countless acts of kindness he offered without seeking recognition.

Visitation will be held at Page Funeral Home in Burlington, NJ, on Tuesday, May 27, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and again on Wednesday, May 28, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM.
A funeral Mass will follow at 10:30 AM on Wednesday, May 28 at St. Paul Church in Burlington, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in John’s memory to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance (www.ccalliance.org), an organization supporting patients and funding research in the fight against colon cancer.

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