John J. DeGennaro

John J. DeGennaro, 96, Altoona, passed away Saturday at the James E. VanZandt Medical Center. He was born in Gallitzin, son of the late Gustino Sr. and Margaret (Sicone) DeGennaro. He later married Mary “Millie” Capece and she preceded him in death on May 10, 1979.

He is survived by his children: Margaret Ann (Craig) Schwenn, of WI., Kenneth DeGennaro of Fl., Lisa DeGennaro, of Fl., and Joanne (Nadia) DeGennaro, of WI; two grandchildren: Nathan Schwenn and Rachel Carlson; 4 great-grandchildren: Joe, Abby, Declyn, and Mason; his long-time companion of 35 years, Doris George; Doris’ daughter, Vicki; and Vicki’s daughter, Taylor; four sisters: Faye Dodson, Mary Louise (Michael) DiRenzo, Jeanne DeGennaro, and June Alice (Gerald) Osmolinski; 3 brothers: James (Genny) DeGennaro, Joseph (Patricia) DeGennaro, and Robert (Jan) DeGennaro; and a sister-in-law, Jeannie.

John was preceded in death by a grandson, Jason Schwenn; two brothers: Albert and Gustine Jr.; and four sisters: Christine Wills, Angie McAlarney, Margaret Jane Spinnazzola, and Mary Ann DeGennaro.

John served as a United States Marine as a Private First Class in Iwo Jima during World War II. After 44 years, he retired as a surveyor and manager for the City of Altoona and continued to survey after retirement.

As a pastime, he loved to play his piano and harmonica, was an avid bowler and a horseshoe champion. In his younger years he enjoyed playing softball. He was a member of the Bavarian Aid Society and the Heidelburg Club.

John was a member of St. Mark’s Catholic Church, Altoona.

Friends will be received from 2-4pm and 6-8pm Thursday, August 18, 2022 in the Santella Funeral Home, where a vigil for the deceased will be held. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10am Friday, August 19, 2022 at St. Mark’s Catholic Church, Altoona. Committal will be at Calvary Cemetery with full military honors.

Donations in memory of John can be made to the Catholic War Veterans, 290 Valley Ave, Altoona, PA 16601.

Online condolences may be made at www.santellafuneralhome.com.

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