John Fred Morales, a retired Master Sergeant of Clermont, Florida, passed away August 15th, 2023, at the age of 78. With a distinguished military career spanning over 20 years in the United States Air Force. He leaves behind a legacy of dedicated service and unwavering commitment to his country and will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Born on October 9, 1944, in Aibonito, Puerto Rico, the son of Fred Morales and Margarita Arreche. He grew up in the vibrant neighborhood of the Bronx, New York, spending time at Kennedy Home and graduated from St. Helena High School in 1962, laying the foundation for a life of purpose and service.

At the age of 18, he embarked on his military journey by joining the United States Air Force as a Security Policeman in April 1963. Throughout his career, John was stationed at various bases across the United States and abroad, leaving an enduring mark wherever he went. He began his military service at Tyndall AB, Florida, and Amarillo AFB, Texas, before finding the love of his life, marrying Rosemary Lynn Bushman at Glasgow AFB, Montana with whom he would build a beautiful family and embark on a remarkable adventure together.

As his career progressed, John transitioned from security forces to recreation services, demonstrating his versatility and passion for supporting the well-being of his fellow service members. He spent time at Anderson Air Base, Guam, followed by assignments at Beale AFB, California, and a short tour at Shemya AFB, Alaska. From there, his military journey took him back to his home state of New York, where he was stationed at Saratoga Springs. He then returned to Montana, this time at Malmstrom AFB. Seeking new adventures, he took his family overseas to San Vito Air Station in Brindisi, Italy. From there, his dedication and professionalism propelled him through the ranks and was selected to serve with the inspector general at the Chidlaw Building in Colorado Springs and Peterson AB, Colorado. His final overseas assignment brought him and his family to Incirlik Air Base in Türkiye before a well-deserved retirement at Patrick AFB, Florida.

Throughout his military career, John received numerous decorations and honors for his exceptional service. Among his accolades are the Meritorious Service Medal with two Oak leaf clusters, the Joint Service Commendation Medal, and the Air Force Commendation Medal with two Oak leaf clusters.

Beyond his military achievements, John was a sports enthusiast and an avid fisherman. He shared his passion by serving as the Little League Commissioner of Baseball in both Colorado Springs and Incirlik Air Base leaving a positive impact on the lives of young athletes. He found joy in card games like gin rummy, poker, and pinochle. His love for music and dancing was infectious, spreading laughter and smiles wherever he went.

John was preceded in death by his parents, John Fred and Margarita Morales, his brother Edward Morales, and his sister Margaret Morales. He is survived by his devoted wife of 56 years, Rosemary, who stood by his side through every chapter of their lives. His sisters, Jacinta "Jenny" Padian (Jerry) and Yolanda Rodriguez (Salvador), his daughter Maria Theresa Buzzelli (Donald) of Clermont, Florida, and his sons John Paul Morales (Gabriele) of Jacksonville, Florida, and Edward Michael Morales (Jonathan) of Saginaw, Michigan. Grandchildren Robert Parliament of New Jersey, Michelle Bowers of Jacksonville, Florida and Jonathan Adair of Melbourne, Florida.

In remembrance, the family kindly requests in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a local animal shelter of your choosing, reflecting his compassion and love for animals.