John Anthony Dagounakis (78) of Toms River New Jersey passed away peacefully at home, with

his wife at his side, January 24th, 2026. John was born in Athens, Greece September 26th, 1947.

He served three (3) years in the Greek Army before emigrating to the United States at the age

of 21. He settled in New York and raised his family. In 2009, John moved to Ocean Gate, New

Jersey where he enjoyed a beach life, loved cooking, and for a while owned an ice cream truck

with Diana. One of his proudest accomplishments happened September 12, 2014, when he

became a U.S. Citizen. John loved to cook and shared many Greek meals with friends and family

over the years.

John is survived by his daughters Maria Castagnozzi (Vincent) with grandson Vincent, Eva

Dagounakis and grandaughter Destiny Correa, Diona Martinez (Pedro) and grandaughter Kayla

along with many loved nieces and nephews. John is also survived by his wife, Diana Diehl-

Dagounakis and her family; parents Harry & Judy Anderson, son David Diehl (Laurin) Ryan and

Remi, and daughter Diana Lynn Diehl and her children. John was predeceased by his son,

Anthony Dagounakis.

John was a strong, loving Papou, father, son, uncle, husband and he will be missed deeply and

remembered always.

Arrangements are being handled by Ocean County Cremation Service, 1252 Route 37 West,

Toms River, New Jersey 08755.

Visitation: Saturday February 21st, 2026 from 1pm - 3pm

Funeral service will be led by Pastor Harry Anderson.

Immediately following the service, please join us in a celebration of life repast.

100 Fireside Blvd

Toms River NJ 08755

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to

The Stephanie Nicole Parze Foundation

SNP Foundation

PO Box 6899

Freehold, NJ 07728

John spent many love filled hours with his wife volunteering as one of Stephanie’s Angels.