It is with profound sorrow and abiding love that we announce the passing of United States Marine Corps Major, John Formoso, an adored husband, cherished father, and loyal friend, who passed away on February 19, 2026, at the age of 54.
Born on October 20, 1971, in Brooklyn to Faustina and Juan Formoso, John was raised in West New York with the loving support of his grandparents, Margot and Cesar Cueto.
John attended Saint Peter’s Preparatory School from 1985 to 1989. Affectionately known as “Formo,” he dominated on the football field as #79 under Friday and Saturday night lights. John formed lifelong friendships with his Prep brothers and was profoundly influenced by two respected mentors, Coach Richard Hansen and Father Frederick Pelligrini.
From 1990 to 1994, John attended the United States Naval Academy, where he excelled as noseguard, #97, alongside his revered fellow Midshipmen. Upon graduation, he earned his commission, fulfilling his long-held aspiration to serve as an officer in the United States Marine Corps.
On New Year’s Eve 1994, John met the love of his life, Michelle Ballan. The following day, he departed for Camp Lejeune, fulfilling both his military career and a devoted partnership. Across states and continents, they remained steadfast in their commitment to one another while John served as a Motor Transportation Officer. His assignments included service in Okinawa, South Korea, Camp Pendleton, and Twentynine Palms, culminating in his final duty station in San Antonio. To be closer to Michelle, he ended his career as an Executive Officer at the nation’s largest Marine Corps recruiting station. His devotion to his country and to the Marine Corps was resolute and unwavering.
John and Michelle married on June 26, 1999 beneath an arch of swords held by his most trusted Marine comrades. Over the next 26 years, they built a life defined by enduring love, shared laughter, and what he fondly called “mandatory fun”—a reflection of a partnership grounded in deep friendship and mutual respect. Together, they raised three exceptional children, Olivia, Isabella and Luke, who embody their father’s intellect, athleticism, and kindness. His love for his wife and children was boundless.
Following his distinguished military service, John embarked upon a second career in medical sales. For over a decade, he advanced patient care at Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Kyphon, Devicor Medical, and Apollo Endo-Surgery. St. Jude Medical/Abbott Laboratories was home to John for the last 14 years. There, he worked for respected managers, alongside his closest friend, Larry Buonadonna. Together, they devoted countless hours to supporting and educating talented physicians whom they regarded as friends, while striving to alleviate patients’ suffering through clinical excellence and research innovation.
John will be remembered for his humility, integrity, and remarkable strength of character. Deeply devoted to his friends and to his Catholic faith, he could always be relied upon as a truly good and honorable man. He found great joy in building and racing his Z28, scuba diving, sport shooting, and lifelong learning about world history. John also delighted in simple pleasures, often setting out on road trips in search of top rated sushi, ice cream, and pizza. These passions reflected his adventurous spirit and his appreciation for both craftsmanship and camaraderie.
A warrior to the end, John often remarked that pain was “weakness leaving the body.” When told by physicians that there were no extra points awarded for suffering, he would refuse medication and respond with characteristic conviction: “You can’t kill a Marine.” His remarkable life stands as a testament to courage, resilience, and an indomitable spirit that inspired all who knew him.
John is survived by his wife, Michelle Ballan; children Olivia, Isabella and Luke Formoso. He is also survived by his beloved cousins, Carmen Formoso-Adamcik, Anna Gonzalez, Mercedes Perez, and Jose Ramon, Alicia, Susana and Roberto Formoso Lado. He is preceded in death by his mother, Faustina Formoso, and his father Juan Formoso.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 28 from 1:00-5:00pm at Frech-McKnight Funeral Home, 161 Washington Avenue, Dumont, New Jersey. A mass will be held at St. Peter’s Prep and internment at Arlington National Cemetery at later dates.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution here.