John A. "Jack" Sabella

John Anthony “Jack” Sabella, 79, of Altoona, passed away Saturday at his home. John was born in Spangler.

He dedicated six years of service to his country. While enlisted, he served as a Tank Commander of the 2nd Armored Division in the United States Army where he was stationed at Ft. Hood, Texas and in Germany.  

After his service, he worked for 20 years as a Federal Police Officer in the District of Columbia.

John was an avid car enthusiast, especially for the Ford Mustang. He competed in many local car shows and won a number of awards for his vehicles.  

John was also a proud member of the Blair County Veterans Honor Guard along with his close friend and past commander, Bill Nelson, where John served over 300 area veteran’s funerals.  

His greatest loves were for his dogs: Max and Molly. John enjoyed hunting and the outdoors. He especially loved to sit on the deck outside his home to feed the local wildlife, and even had a “pet” groundhog named Alice. 

John is survived by his sister, Dolores; niece, Jacquelyn (Michael); nephew, Arthur (Lisa); a great-nephew, Art Jr.; and great-nieces, Keira and Jade.  

He was preceded in death by his parents, Carmen and Elizabeth (Quatrara) Sabella; his twin brother, James; and another brother, Carmen. 

Friends and family are invited to gather in honor of his memory from 4 to 7p.m. Thursday, July 13, 2023, at Santella’s Funeral Home, Altoona.

A military graveside service will be held at 3 p.m. Friday, July 14, 2023, at Calvary Cemetery.  

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The Blair County Veterans Honor Guard in John’s memory.

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