John Dilgen

"After a courageous battle with cancer, John Dilgen passed away on July 29th, 2023 at the age of 67. John, or "Johnny" as he was lovingly referred to by friends and family alike, loved life and was loved by all who knew him. Johnny was quick to laugh, always game for an adventure, especially outside so he could enjoy his hobby of birding.

Johnny was born in Brooklyn, New York, to John and Enea Dilgen on May 29, 1956. He was raised in Windsor Terrace with his three siblings, Bill, Mary and Dolores. 

He started his formative years in education at Bishop Ford High School before attending Brooklyn College. It was here where he discovered a lifelong passion for teaching, graduating with a Master's in Education in 1980. 

Johnny returned to Bishop Ford to embark upon a career in teaching which would last over forty years, retiring last June from David A Boody Jr High. It was at Bishop Ford where he met the love of his life, Faye Purpura. After years of chasing and pleading they eventually married at the Fort Hamilton Army Base in Brooklyn in 1992. 

Together they raised three wonderful children: his eldest daughter, Kalilla, with whom he shared a love of the world and traveling; his eldest son, Teague, who he enjoyed countless hours playing guitar with and going on hikes together; and lastly his youngest son, John Hudson, who he loved watching films with and sharing a love of all things Japanese. As well as being a devoted and loving father, John was a beloved Uncle to a large number of nieces and nephews, as well as greats. He loved nothing more than entertaining them all at the family home. 

Johnny had a great many passions in life. He was an avid self-taught guitarist and could easily while away the evenings playing intricate and beautiful melodies on any one of his many string instruments. Along with his son, Teague, and other friends he entertained many with his original music and classic covers of his favorite bands. He was a devoted Ranger fan and was fortunate enough to witness them win the Stanley Cup once in his lifetime. He also loved soccer, both as a player in his younger days and as a coach at Bishop Ford. Another of his great passions was art, and was himself a beautiful Sumi -e painter. 

In the interest of the medically fragile member of the Dilgen family, the family would respectfully request that if you are in any way ill or have been in contact with someone who is, please refrain from attending the funeral. Thank you. "