John Christian Marrero, age 69, of Gloucester, died Dec. 14, 2011 at Riverside Walter Reed Hospital.

Mr. Marrero was retired from the United States Air Force as a CMSGT at Langley AFB, and was a Vietnam veteran. He served his country proudly for 30 years.

He and his wife Donna had a passion for traveling and discovering different cultures, food and people. They spent 40 wonderful years in pursuit of this passion. He also loved photography, music and dancing; but his greatest pleasure was being mischievous and playing practical jokes on anyone he could ensnare.

His parents, John and Celina Santiago Marrero, preceded him in death.

Survivors include his wife Donna; daughters, Yolanda Marrero and Tina Marrero; grandson, Noah Zebede; sister, Judith Garcia and her husband Eddie; nephews, Eddie Jr., Richie and Michael.

A Mass of Christian Funeral with military honors, conducted by the Rev. James Cowles, was held Monday, Dec. 19, 2011, at 11 a.m. in the Chapel of Hogg Funeral Home, Gloucester Point. The family received friends from 10-10:45 a.m. prior to the service. Inurnment was private.

In John’s memory, contributions may be made to Gloucester-Mathews Humane Society, P.O. Box 385, Gloucester, Va. 23061.