John Comba

JOHN COMBA           March 18, 1916 – March 3, 2021

John was born and raised in Carteret, New Jersey, and was one of nine children.  He was a three sport athlete at Carteret High School and was named an All State Athlete in baseball and a Middlesex County Athlete in football and basketball.  John received a full scholarship to Albright College in Reading, Pennsylvania in 1935.  He played football, basketball, and baseball and was elected Captain of the Albright College basketball team in 1939.  John was inducted into the Carteret Hall of Fame in 2007 for his many athletic achievements.    

John was employed by the Westhampton Beach School District in 1942, as the Industrial Arts teacher and baseball coach.  In 1944, he was awarded a Master’s Degree in Industrial Arts and School Administration by New York University.   While teaching and coaching, John was also a member of the New York State Referee’s Association for football and basketball.  John became the Westhampton Beach Junior High School Principal in 1960 and retired from the school system as Middle School Principal in 1977.

John enjoyed many productive years of retirement by continuing his hobby of woodworking.  John was a member of the Westhampton Presbyterian Church and served as both Elder and Trustee.  He was a member of the Westhampton Beach Fire Department for over 75 years.  John was a true legend in the community.  He touched and inspired many throughout his life.

John was a loving husband and father and was predeceased by his wife, Ella Propst Comba.  He is survived by two daughters:   Melanie Bass and husband Thomas Bass Jr.; and Doren Van Saun and husband Philip Van Saun.  John had three grandchildren:  Craig Bass and wife Meredith; Taryn Reyes and husband Jason; and Chase Van Saun.   John was also blessed to have four great grandchildren:  Ethan and Jacob Bass; and Ella and Mateo Reyes.

A Memorial Service will be held in June at the Westhampton Beach Presbyterian Church, Westhampton Beach, New York.  Date to be announced.

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