He was born in Altoona, son of the late Eleanor Dalby.

Surviving are his wife of 44 years, Margaret R. (Brown); five children: Jackie (Dalby) George of Altoona, Sherri Babiss (Steve) of Tuckerton, N.J., Anthony DeStefano (Tracie) of Altoona, Catherine Cogan (Bruce) of Altoona and Robert Grassmyer of Altoona; 15 grandchildren: Bryant Burgmeir, John C. McDowell (Ashley), Hunter J. Cogan, Robin Grassmyer, Dawn Trauger, Ariana Grassmyer, Alita Grassmyer, Danielle Repose, Tara Fedon, William Dippilitto Jr. and Anthony M. Jr., Jewelen P., Diamond L., Amber and Ashley DeStefano; and 10 great-grandchildren.

John was a graduate of Altoona High School. He joined the U.S. Navy in 1952 and was a Korean War veteran. After his military service, he was employed as a Housing and Urban Development inspector for the county. He was also a lifetime member of the Frohsinn Singing Society, where he served as a steward.

Friends will be received from 1 to 3 and 6 until the 7:30 p.m. funeral service Thursday, Sept. 10, 2015, at Santella Funeral Home. Military honors will follow the service. Interment will be made at Calvary Cemetery.