John J. Macking, (the real John Macking), 77, of the Sheatown section of Newport Township, passed away with his family at his side, Wednesday, October 25, 2023 at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, following lengthy illness. Born September 5, 1946 in Wilkes-Barre, he was a son of the late Harold and Laura German Macking. He was a graduate of E.L. Meyers High School and enlisted with the U.S. Air Force, proudly serving his country in Vietnam. He attained the rank of Sergeant and received the National Defense Service Medal; the Vietnam Service Medal; Air Force Commendation Medal; and the Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon. He was honorably discharged from active duty on July 31, 1970, and served as a reservist until 1972. John was employed for thirty-five years at Lion Brewery, Wilkes-Barre, retiring in 2008. He was active in the community and belonged to American Legion Post # 350, Nanticoke and was a past Chaplain; Fraternal Order of Police Wyoming Valley Lodge # 36, and its Monday night dart league; and the Quoit Club, Nanticoke. He liked weekends flying gliders and skydiving; hunting (taking a nap in the woods), and was very proud of his prize buck; and He and Lori enjoyed Flyers hockey. He will also be remembered as a terrible golfer, but the best cart buddy, and he especially loved time spent with his grandchildren, and never missed an event they were in. John was the last member of his immediate family, being preceded by his brother, Harold; and sisters, Martha Brown and Anna Macking. Surviving are his beloved wife, the former Dolores “Lori” Grabski, with whom he shared forty-eight years of marriage; daughters, Heather Mera and husband Steve, of Alden; and Kristen Dutzar and husband, Bill, of Shickshinny; grandchildren, Miya and Liam Dutzar; a sister-in-law, Shirley Macking; sister-in-law, Judy Patackas and husband, Tom; as well as nieces, nephews, great nieces and a great nephew; and his neighbors who were like family. He will also be deeply missed by his “granddogs”; Kristoff, who loved to go for rides on the Rhino; Dixie, Lilo, and Annie. A Memorial Service will be held 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, November 4th at Nebo Baptist Church, 75 S. Prospect Street, Nanticoke with the Rev. Timothy Hall, officiating. Military honors will be accorded by the U.S. Air Force. Friends and family may call for visitation at the church from 10:30 a.m. until the time of the service. All are invited for a luncheon at the American Legion Home, West Broad Street, Nanticoke following the church service. Please contact the family by Thursday, if planning to attend. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution in John’s memory to the Janet Weis Children’s Hospital, 100 N. Academy Ave., Danville, PA 17822.