John Michael Corradin

John Michael Corradin, the owner and manager of The Days of Knights Game Store in Newark, Delaware, died at home Sunday morning after battling brain cancer since 2000.

John was a founding stockholder in The Days of Knights fantasy gift and game store, and served as its owner and manager for over 35 years. It was voted by the University’s Review “the Coolest Store on Main Street” (Newark) in the 1990’s. DOKS Game Club was, and still is, a center for the gaming community. Prior to taking the reins at DOKS, John was a special education teacher at Au Clair School and the Intensive Learning Center of the Red Clay Consolidated School District.

John was born in Wilmington, Delaware to Claire Miele and John Joseph Corradin on February 13, 1950, and was raised in the “Little Italy” section of the city. John was a graduate of Salesianum High School Class of 1968. He held a B.A. in Communications from the University of Delaware and a Master of Education degree from the University of Florida.

A consummate game master, player and storyteller, John was the “Demigod” of the Wilmark Dynasty Gaming Group that has been running annual gaming events for over 40 years. He was a writer, game master, and producer of theatrical-style LARPS (Live Action Role Playing) and tabletop roleplaying games. John co-authored with his friend Lee McCormick, a fantasy RPG game entitled Melanda, Land of Mystery in 1981. Among his writing/GMing/producing credits for LARPS are “Oscars ’98, 2000, and 2012,” “Star Trek: Council at Khitomer,” and “Camelot Court of Love.”

An avid sports fan, John was a lifelong Phillies’ fan and long-suffering Cleveland Browns’ fan. He helped found the John Wockenfuss Strat-o-matic Baseball League and served as its Phillies manager until his death. He loved harness racing and served as a TV commentator for Brandywine Raceway results on WHYY during the 1980’s.

John will be remembered for his devoted love for his family and many, many friends, as well as his pride of his Italian heritage. He treasured his Christmas Eve parties, where everyone was invited. John’s outgoing spirit made him a friend to all who were lucky enough to have met him.

John is survived by his wife, Mica; his daughters, Ciela C. McDevitt (Timothy) and Kyra E. Corradin (Matthew); his grandchildren, Ronan and Valin McDevitt; as well as his extended Corradin, Miller and Calfo family members.

Family and friends may visit from 4 to 7 PM on Wednesday, May 30 at Doherty Funeral Home, 3200 Limestone Rd., Wilmington, DE 19808. A Celebration of John’s Life will be held at 12 Noon on Thursday, May 31 at Bella Vita at Cavaliers Country Club, 100 Addison Dr., Newark, DE 19702. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 92 Reads Way, Suite #205, New Castle, DE 19720.

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