In Loving Memory of

John Anthony Troise Sr. “Johnnie T.” December 3, 1940 – January 21, 2026

John Anthony Troise Sr., known affectionately to all as Johnnie T., passed away peacefully on January 21, 2026, in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, at the age of 85.

Born on December 3, 1940, in Manhattan, New York City, to Nicholas and Louise Troise, John grew up surrounded by family and the vibrant energy of the city that helped shape his strong spirit, work ethic, and lifelong drive.

A Life Fueled by Passion, Faith, and Hard Work

John’s lifelong passion for racing began in New York, where in his early twenties, he raced at Islip Speedway and proudly held a track record driving his Chevy Impala. From those early days, racing became a defining love in his life—one rooted in discipline, precision, and pride. He loved cars and working on them to get them as fast as they could go. He was a hard worker and always believed where there is a will, there is a way.

In the early 1960s, John met the love of his life, Dorothy, and seeking a fresh start and opportunity, moved to Rio Rancho, New Mexico, where they began building a family grounded in faith, hard work, loyalty, and love. John and Dorothy were married on September 29, 1964, beginning this devoted partnership that would shape their story for decades to come.

A true entrepreneur, and a driven provider for his growing family, John owned and operated several businesses over the years, including an Exxon station near Old Town, a pizza parlor, and a laundromat. After working with Mountain Bell, Western Fleet, and U-Haul, he realized his lifelong dream in 1987 when he opened Johnnie T’s Auto Repair near Montano and Edith. For many years, he served his community with unmatched skill, honesty, and a welcoming smile. It was here that Johnnie T’s Racing Team was born, and where family traditions and history truly took root.

During his years at Johnnie T’s Auto Repair, John was part of a close-knit lunch crew of local businessmen, including his best friends Paul Smith of JB Radiator, Art Pacheco Sr. of Six Pack Performance, Aaron Craig of Craig Tire, and George Montez Sr. of JB Trailer—along with many others who joined them and knew these gentlemen! These moments of friendship, laughter, and fellowship were deeply meaningful to him and remained among his most cherished memories.

As his racing career continued to grow within his business focus, John competed in numerous national events across the central and southwestern United States, earning respect not only for his skill behind the wheel but also for his sportsmanship. One of his proudest achievements came in 2001, when he earned the position of #1 qualifier of his class at the Nationals in Phoenix, Arizona with even a good mention in the National Dragster magazine.

Racing was never just a hobby—it became a family tradition. John taught his children to be part of the racing world, sharing not only his exceptional mechanical skills but also the discipline and work ethic that defined him. Even his grandchildren delighted in attending races and sharing in the excitement. His race cars—The Wedge Warrior, Fat Alice, and new car D-Day—were legendary to him and to all who shared those cherished trackside memories and dreams.

In 1992, John suffered the heartbreaking loss of his wife of 28 years to breast cancer. He never remarried, remaining faithful to “the love of my life”. .

A Man of Faith, a Teacher, and a Mentor

John was a deeply religious man, highly intelligent and prayed daily, drawing strength, humility, and guidance from this faith and teaching it to his children. He believed firmly in hard work and personal responsibility and taught his children strong work ethics, patiently showing them how to work on and care for their own vehicles. Through his wisdom, kindness, and steady presence while holding God in his heart, John brought joy and guidance to many and became a father figure to countless people throughout his lifetime.

Interests, Community, and Character

Beyond racing, John loved cooking Sunday dinners for family and friends, tinkering with his cars, coin collecting, and bowling. Loyal, intelligent, and community-minded, he was a proud member of the NHRA, the Mopar Muscle Club of New Mexico, the Rio Rancho Elks Lodge, the Italian American Club, and the New Mexico Rangers, where he formed lifelong friendships.

Cherished Family

John is survived by his children, James; John Jr. (Carrie); Christina (Wade); and Suzanne (Hosea); his grandchildren, Jessica, Robert, John III (Rosa), Nicholas (Jordana), Alisha, Amber, Dora, Amanda (Steven), and Rosalie; seventeen great-grandchildren; his sister, Maryann Pernal; his brother, Nicholas (Mary); his nephews, Joseph, Michael, and Peter; his nieces, Joanna, Nicole, and Maria; many grand-nieces and grand-nephews; and extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Dorothy; his parents, Nicholas and Louise; and his sister, Antonia Lopiano.

Remembering John

John will be remembered for his unwavering loyalty, strong faith, quick wit, and generous heart. His legacy lives on through his family, the lessons he taught, the prayers he carried, the engines he built, and the countless lives he gently guided and touched.

He will be deeply missed.

To John—father, friend, and constant.

A toast, kind sir—to you. To safe travels. To a beautiful, wonderful life and all that was bound within it.

Your spirit, strength, and kindness will always remain with us. We will strive to see the world through your kind eyes and to stand strong by remembering your character.

We love you, and until we meet again, may God prosper you.

Services

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Thomas Aquinas Parish,1502 Sara Rd, Rio Rancho, NM 87124,on March 6, 2026, at 10:30 a.m.