Mario John Trofa passed away peacefully in his beloved Ocean City on December 19, 2025, surrounded by his family.
John was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and a respected public finance attorney whose career spanned more than 45 years.
John was the beloved husband of Gretchen Trofa (nee Hess) and the proud father of five daughters: Kristen Wedel (Eric Wedel), Jennifer Trofa (Rock Shaink), Dr. Melissa Trofa (Vageli Carabases), Becky Bertrando (Ryan Bertrando), and Libby Trofa (Harry Pfeifle). He was a devoted grandfather to Giada Bertrando, who brought him great joy.
John was preceded in death by his parents Nicholas “Chick” Trofa and Violet Trofa (DiSciascio) and his brother Nick.
John was born in Somers Point, New Jersey, growing up in Ocean City, New Jersey. He graduated from Holy Spirit High School, Boston College and University of Illinois Law School. Professionally, John joined Chapman and Cutler LLP in Chicago out of law school, becoming partner and spending over 35 years with the firm, including serving as Chair of the Public Finance Group, before retiring from law firm practice in 2014. He then joined his former client Capital Area Housing Finance Corporation in Austin, Texas as General Counsel, working to finance affordable housing in and around the Texas Hill Country.
To his mother, he was Maz; to his Ocean City family and childhood friends, Mario; to his colleagues, M. John; to his granddaughter, El Jefe; to his wife, John and to his daughters, simply Dad. Although he had many names, he was known by all for his fierce loyalty, integrity, wisdom, humor and deep love for his family. He loved taking cruises, vacationing in the sun and enjoying wine and apps out back with family and friends. He also cherished his dogs, Bernie and Teddy, who were constant companions.
Arrangements will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation or a charity of your choice.
Arrangements are by The Godfrey Funeral Home of Ocean City. For condolences to the family, visit www.godfreyfuneralhome.com
