John B. Carnicella Sr., 72, of Altoona, passed away Thursday morning at his home, after a courageous five year battle with colon cancer. He was born in Altoona, son of Yolanda M. (Spiridigliozzi) and the late Peter J. Carnicella. He later married Terry Lang.

He is survived by his loving wife; a son, John (Julie) Carnicella Jr.; a daughter, Maria (Alan) Kratzer; six grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; his mother; a brother-in-law, Walter Lang Jr.; two sisters-in-law: Anita (Scott) Wavrek and Monica (Joe) Maus; and two special nephews: Scotty Wavrek and Joshua Maus.

John was preceded in death by an infant son, Joseph.

John was a 1967 Altoona Area High School graduate and retired as a lieutenant from the Altoona Police Department after 30 years of service.

He loved to attend Penn State football games, hunting, church usher, choir member, and camp committee member for St. Mary's church.

John was a member of St. Mary's Church, Altoona.

A memorial Mass will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2021, at St. Mary's Church, Altoona with committal at St. Mary's Cemetery. At the request of the family, masks are strongly recommended. A Celebration of Life service will be held later in the spring.

In lieu of flowers, please make contributions in John's memory to St. Mary's Church, Altoona, 1405 5th Ave. Altoona PA 16602.