Lt. Col. John James Trichinotis, USAF (Ret.)

John James Trichinotis, 74, entered into rest on Friday, December 6, 2024. 

John was born on January 18, 1950, in Chicago, Illinois to the late James and Frances Trichinotis. A proud and dedicated veteran, John served with honor in the United States Air Force for an impressive 38 years, serving three tours during the Vietnam conflict and retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. After retiring from his military career, he transitioned into a new chapter as an instructor at Middle Georgia Technical College, where he imparted his wisdom and expertise to countless students. 

John’s deep faith was central to his life. As a longtime, devoted member of Mount Calvary Lutheran Church where he sang in the praise band, he nurtured a strong and personal relationship with Jesus Christ. His love for the Lord guided him in all aspects of life. A man who cherished family above all else, John was a loving husband and a doting father, always seeking to create lasting memories with those he held dear.  

Outside of his family and faith, John had a vibrant range of hobbies that enriched his life. Even at 74, he remained an avid bowler, always ready for a friendly competition. His love for adventure led him to enjoy camping and traveling, with some of his favorite destinations including Disney, Universal Studios, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and visiting family in Wisconsin and Illinois. John enjoyed eating some of his favorite foods, whether sitting down for a meal at Portillo’s or sharing a slice of pizza. He was also an enthusiastic movie and TV buff, never missing an opportunity to discuss his favorite shows. A die-hard fan of Notre Dame football, John’s passion for sports extended to his hometown teams—The Chicago Bulls, The Cubs, The White Sox, and The Bears—all of which he followed with pride. 

John’s larger-than-life presence and joyful spirit will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him. His legacy of faith, love, and devotion will continue to inspire those he leaves behind. 

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his stepson, Jacob Paoletta and brother-in-law, Gilbert Cox. 

His memory will forever be treasured by his loving wife of 24 years, Cynthia Trichinotis; children, James Trichinotis (Kristin), Zachary Trichinotis (Megan), and Ross Paoletta (Lauren); grandchildren, Jack Trichinotis, Dominic Trichinotis, and Trey Greene; siblings, Debra Cox and Dawn Lawrence (Bruce), along with many other loving family members and friends.  

Visitation will be Wednesday, December 18, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at McCullough Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church. Afterward, John will be laid to rest in Georgia Veterans Cemetery.  

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully suggests memorial donations be given in memory of John Trichinotis to Mount Calvary Lutheran Church at 336 Carl Vinson Parkway, Warner Robins, GA 31088. 

Go to www.mcculloughfh.com to sign the Online Registry for the family. McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.