Hughesville accident victim to be honored

Friday, Nov. 20, 2009

He was only 32 when he was killed in a motorcycle accident in Hughesville in July. John Girolamo of Lusby was mourned at that time by many, including his co-workers at the Patuxent Habitat for Humanity ReStore in Lexington Park.

He made a big impact at the ReStore, where he had served as the director and jack-of-all-trades since it opened in fall 2007. The ReStore sells donated household and construction items to raise funds for Patuxent Habitat for Humanity.

He was a presence at the store, where he fixed everything, networked with donors and set the tone of the office, said Diane Daly, director of administration of Patuxent Habitat for Humanity. "His enthusiasm, his warmth, his openness. … We miss him terribly, terribly."

To honor Girolamo's contributions, the ReStore will hold a dedication in his honor 6 to 8 p.m. Nov. 24 at the store at 21768 S. Coral Drive in Lexington Park. "Anyone who remembers him fondly and wants to see his work honored" is invited, Daly said.

"John was so instrumental in getting this ReStore operation off the ground and making it the success it is," she said. "When he started here, he found his place. He was the happiest he had been in a long time ... He knew he was doing work that meant something to the community."

The dedication event will include a prayer offered by Girolamo's fiancee's pastor (Girolamo was supposed to be married in September), as well as a chance for participants to share memories of the young man. A bronze plaque will be unveiled, followed by a reception. Those who wish to participate are asked to RSVP by calling 301-863-6227 or 410-326-9050.

In addition to many relatives, Girolamo is survived by his fiancee, Joy Woppert, and a 3-year-old son, L.J., from a previous marriage. A bake sale to raise money for the L.J. Fund will be held at the ReStore on Dec. 5.

For more information , go to www.patuxenthabitat.org/restore.