John DeKonty

1915 - 2012

John DeKonty

1915-2012

John DeKonty was called into the presence of his Savior on Friday, November 2, 2012. John was a loving husband, devoted father and grandfather, loyal brother, and faithful friend.

Born to immigrant parents he began his working life in the coal mines of Scranton, Pennsylvania. He sought opportunity in the defense plants of pre-war California and then served his country in the Navy as a plane captain on Coronado flying boats in both the European and Pacific theaters of operation in World War II. He continued his patriotic duty in the Navy reserve after the war. His association with the Navy continued through his five-decade career with the U.S. Civil Service at NAS Mainside, Pensacola.

Following the war, he married the love of his life, Beatrice Jackson who preceded him to Glory in 1992. John leaves behind four children (Gloria Jean, Janice Elizabeth, John Michael and Burl Jeffrey) four grandsons (John Simon, Recho Bell, Sean DeKonty and Matthew DeKonty) and two great grandsons (Jacob Simon and Mark Simon). John was one of ten brothers and sisters, and is survived by his brother Daniel and his sisters Ruth and Helen.

Many of his nieces and nephews now know how to swim, ride a two-wheeler or drive a car because of his patient and dependable helping hand.

John's ties to the community included a long association with Myrtle Grove Baptist Church, the Myrtle Grove Volunteer Fire Department and the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Anyone who knew him knew of his love of desserts. Whether it was a Tastykake, a Hershey bar, a treat from Jay's bakery or a chocolate cake, he never met a sweet he didn't like. He would head for the pool, lake or river for a swim at the drop of a hat. At the National Museum of Naval Aviation, small crowds would gather when he'd share his knowledge and experiences.

Visitation will be at Faith Chapel South on Tuesday, November 6, 2012. Family members are invited to share memories beginning at 4:00 p.m. with others joining from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Services will be at Faith Chapel South at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 7, 2012 with Dr. Alton Butler officiating. Interment will be immediately following at Pensacola Memorial Gardens with a reception to follow at Myrtle Grove Baptist Church. Flowers are welcome or donations may be made to Mission Aviation Fellowship (www.maf.org).

FAITH CHAPEL FUNERAL HOME SOUTH is in charge of arrangements. You may express your condolences online at www.fcfhs.

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