John Conti

John Conti, 95 of Altoona died unexpectedly Tuesday, April 4, 2023, at Presbyterian Village at Hollidaysburg.

He was born January 1, 1928 in Pico, Italy a son of the late Teresa (Castrechiini) Conti.

He retired in 1994 as a maintenance man at Garvey Manor, Hollidaysburg, after many years of service. He also worked as a yard maintenance man for many people in Altoona.

John was a member of The Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament, Altoona.

He was a member of William Penn Association Branch 0800, where he served as an auditor, Italian Lodge and was a Cathedral usher for more than 60 years. He also enjoyed working on the Cathedral Festival for many years and the Cathedral Bingo.

John was "famous" around town for having his lawnmower in the back of his car. He enjoyed BGCHS football and basketball games and Sunday night dinners with his family and beest friend, Nic Ciambotti. He loved to spoil his grandchildren and his Manx cat, Max. John spent much of his time gardening and attending Penn State football games.

He married Mary Mildred Butchko on October 23, 1954 at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament, Altoona. She preceded him in death September 9, 1995.

John is survived by two children, John J. (Amy) Conti of Doswell, VA, and Mary S. (Joe) Smithmyer of Altoona. Also surviving are three grandchildren: Joseph P. Smithmyer of Altoona, Andrew J. Smithmyer, and Susan M. Smithmyer, both of Pittsburgh; and several nieces and nephews in different towns in Italy.

He was preceded in death by two siblings, Pia Conti and Hugo Conti.

Friends will be received from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday, April 10, 2023, at Jones Funeral Home, Altoona, where a vigil for the deceased will be celebrated during the visitation.

A funeral mass will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday April 11, 2023, at The Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament, Altoona, with Monsignor Stanley B. Carson officiating.

Committal Rites will be held at Calvary Cemetery, Altoona.

In memory of John, please make contributions to Second Chance Strays, 1101 13th Avenue, Altoona, PA 16601; or BGCHS Athletic Association, 2400 Pleasant Valley Boulevard, Altoona, PA 16602.