John A. Gracia, 76, of Clearwater, passed away February 23, 2008. Born in New Bedford, MA, he moved here in 1977. He owned and operated Gracia Foreign Motors, and was one of the first 7 Saab dealers in New England. Later he became one of the 1st Toyota Dealerships on the East Coast. He served as a Sergeant in the Army, Company E, 31st Infantry, and 7th Infantry Division during the Korean War. He was an active member of the Korean War Veterans Honor Guard. After moving here he became a real estate broker and was associated with Tarry Real Estate until retiring in 2001. He is a member of the Clearwater Board of Realtors and the American Legion. He was an usher at Espiritu Santo Catholic Church in Safety Harbor for over 30 years as well as a member of the Knights of Columbus #7109 & 4th Degree member of Espiritu Assembly #2474. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Florence Gracia, 2 brothers, George Gracia, Acushnet, MA, Anthony Gracia of Fairhaven, MA & several nieces & nephews. Visitation will be Wednesday evening, February 27, 2008 from 6-8 pm at Espiritu Santo Catholic Church. Funeral Mass is 11am Thursday, February 28, 2008 He will be buried at Sylvan Abbey Memorial Park with full Military Honors.
Arrangements entrusted to Veterans Funeral Care, 15281 Roosevelt Blvd., Clearwater, Florida 33760
Flo, I was so sorry to learn of John’s passing. I’ll never forget how kind you both were to me when
I first came to Florida, back in
1985. Jean Seabolt
John was a good man. He encouraged me. He and Flo helped many Veterans thru the KWVA. John will be missed.