John R. Altobelli

John R. Altobelli, 87, of Pittston, passed away on Thursday, Dec. 1, 2016. He was born in Old Forge on May 16, 1929, and was the son of the late Diego and Santini (Paolini) Altobelli and stepson of James Nese.

John was a member of St. Joseph Marello Parish, Pittston. He was a graduate of Old Forge High School. Upon graduation, John enlisted in the Army and served during WWII. After the war he attended Lackawanna Junior College and graduated as a certified draftsman. He retired from PennDOT Road and Bridge Department.

In his later years, he enjoyed spending his winters with his family and friends at his home in Naples, Fla. He was a loving husband, father, brother, uncle and friend and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

In addition to his parents and stepfather, he was preceded in death by his sister, Frances Sperlunto.

John is survived by his wife of 51 years, the former Fidelis Osticco Altobelli; his son, John "Jake" Altobelli and his wife, Robin (Trotta) Altobelli, of Exeter; his brothers, Mario Nese and his wife, Barbara, of Dunmore; and William Nese and his wife, Amy, of Montana. Also surviving is his niece, Elizabeth "Betsy" and her husband, Jimmy Pisa.

The family of John Altobelli would like to thank Dr. James Bruno, Dr. Mark Bernardi and their nurses and staff for their kindness, excellent care and support that they provided John and his family with over the years. The family would also like to thank all doctors, nurses and staff at the VA Medical Center.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, Dec. 5 at 11 a.m. at the Oblates of St. Joseph Church, 1880 PA-315, Jenkins Twp., with the Rev. Joseph Sibilano officiating. Friends may call on Monday, Dec. 5 from 10 a.m. until time of Mass. Interment will be held at the Old Forge Cemetery, Old Forge. The AMVETS Honor Guard will provide military honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, 4899 Belfort Road, Suite 300, Jacksonville, FL 32256.

Arrangements are provided by Kiesinger Funeral Services Inc., 255 McAlpine St., Duryea. Online condolences may be made to www.kiesingerfuneralservices.com.