John Carini

John Sam Carini, age 67, of Union Grove, passed away on November 15th, surrounded by his loving family. John was born on August 12th, 1956 to John and Antonina Carini in Milwaukee.  As a young man, John had a passion for cars and could often be found cruising on Hwy 100. He attended Pius XI High school, and graduated from W.A.T.C. with an Associate in Police Science.

In 1985, John met his wife Sandy (Davis).  They married and had 2 children - Nicholas (Christine) and Caitlin (Nate) Jay. John also was a grandfather to Elenora Jay.

John enjoyed many road trips across the country in search of antiques, particularly Coin Operated machines.  He bought his first coin-op machine in 1987 at a flea market, and spent much of his free time buying and selling old gumball machines.  He loved the hobby, meeting new people and attending the Chicagoland Coin-op Show.  He also went on to write a book, the Pocket Guide to Coin-op Vending Machines, in 2002.

John worked for Briggs and Stratton Corporation for 30 years, and MGIC for 10 years before retiring in 2021.

John was preceded in death by parents John and Antonina Carini.

He is survived by his wife, Sandy, son Nicholas (Christine), daughter Caitlin (Nate) Jay, granddaughter Elenora Jay.  Sisters Nina Rubich and Marie (Kurt) Armbrust.  Also many brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews.

He also loved his dogs, Trixie and Autumn and his bird, Buddy. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Wisconsin Humane Society are appreciated: www.wihumane.org The family invites friends and loved ones to pay their respects at the Molthen-Bell Funeral Home, 700 Milwaukee Avenue, in South Milwaukee, WI. The visitation will be held on November 22nd at 10am with a service to follow at 11:30am.