“To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.” Frankie Muniz recently dealt with the heartbreaking loss of his grandfather, John Preli. The American actor turned professional racer had a close relationship with ‘Pops’, who was surrounded by family and friends before passing away at the age of 97. While dealing with the death of a loved one is never easy, the 38-year-old will always treasure the happy memories he shared with his grandfather, who was not just a parental figure but also his mentor.

Muniz paid tribute to his grandfather with a heartfelt message on Instagram, emphasizing his importance to the family. John Preli, who was a World War II veteran received military funeral honors, as befitting his contributions to the U.S. Navy.

Frankie Muniz honors his grandfather’s legacy with a heartfelt tribute

Frankie Muniz will always remember November 25, 2024. After all, it was the day his beloved ‘Pops’ passed away, leaving behind a legacy that his family will hold onto forever. Hailing from Wood Ridge, John Preli had all the qualities of a true war hero, embodying the values of courage and sacrifice. After his time in the United States Navy, Muniz’s grandfather built a long and accomplished career as a machine operator, playing an important part in construction projects around New Jersey. Preli’s contributions not only built the foundations of the city but also played an important role in his family’s future.

Breaking the news to his fans, Frankie Muniz wrote on Instagram, “Our Thanksgiving Day plans were abruptly changed when I got a call last Monday letting me know my grandfather, John Preli, passed away at the age of 97. Every member of my family is where they are and who they are because of him. He taught us lessons about life that I will never forget and I am forever grateful to have had him in my life. I’m at peace knowing my grandfather is in a better place with his wife of almost 70 years, Martha. Sad to lose my grandfather but loved getting to spend time with my family this weekend as it was a reminder of what is truly important. I love you pops. 📷”

There are plenty of reasons for Frankie Muniz to be proud of his family. Apart from his ‘Pops’ being a war hero, John Preli also had a happy and successful marriage with his wife, Jane Preli. Carrying on his legacy are his daughters Denise LaFianza and Jane Triano, along with his grandchildren Cristina Chizmar, Nicholas Triano, Frankie Muniz, Robert Triano, and Samantha Splitt. The family celebrated his life at the Kimak Funeral Home on November 29, while the funeral mass was held at Assumption Church, Wood-Ridge the following day.

After making four Truck Series appearances in 2024, Frankie Muniz has secured a full-time seat with Reaume Brothers Racing next year. The 38-year-old will hope to see a drastic improvement in form after finishing no higher than 29th while behind the wheel of his No. 22 Ford. His last full-time stint was in the ARCA Menards Series, where he secured one top-five and 11 top-10 finishes. To keep his grandfather’s legacy of hard work alive, the New Jersey native will aim to give it his all on the racetrack, cementing his place in NASCAR for the foreseeable future.

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Fans offer their commiseration after John Preli’s passing

As expected, it didn’t take long for fans to publicly express their emotional support for Frankie Muniz, who is still coming to terms with the loss of his grandfather. Despite the 38-year-old sharing a heartfelt tribute to John Preli on Instagram, one fan couldn’t get enough of his ‘Pops’ stories and said, “I would love to hear more about him, his life, and how he affected you. ❤️.” Muniz’s words touched the heartstrings of other fans as well, who went on to express their condolences by saying, “I’m so sorry for your loss. He sounds like an amazing person.”

Acknowledging John Preli’s life in the U.S. Navy during the Second World War and as a machine operator for construction sites, a fan urged Frankie Muniz to keep his grandfather’s legacy alive for future generations. The fan wrote, “97! What an amazing life he must’ve had! Cherish your memories and may his name live on in the stories you tell of him ✌️❤️.” An Instagram user simply went on to say, “Rest in peace”, hoping that Preli’s spirit is finally at ease after living a long, happy, and prosperous life.

Another fan expressed his sympathy towards Frankie Muniz, having been in the New Jersey native’s position before. Expressing condolences for the actor-turned-racing driver’s loss, the fan wrote, “Omg, I’m so sorry! I know how it feels to lose a grandpa 😢.” Even though Muniz might not have had the Thanksgiving he hoped for, memories of his beloved ‘Pops’ will always remain alive in his mind, irrespective of whatever adventures the 38-year-old decides to take in the future.