Mario Sciarra, a beloved veteran and longtime resident of Burkburnett, passed away on March 10, 2025 surrounded by family.
Mario was born February 22, 1949 in Altomonte, Italy to Giuseppe and Elvira (Lotito) Sciarra. In 1956 they immigrated to the Germantown section of Philadelphia, where Mario attended school before enlisting in the United States Air Force in 1967 during the Vietnam war where he served with honor and distinction.
Most of Mario’s military career was serving from a forward position in combat with an elite force of Tactical Air Control Party (TACP) Romads that engaged in close air support. The U.S. Air Force recognized Mario for his honorable service with multiple commendations, including numerous Bronze Stars and recognition of his expert marksmanship. Mario didn't speak much about the specifics of his time in the service, but often shared the stories of camaraderie and sacrifice, reflecting the profound impact that his service had on his life and love for his country.
In June 2005 Mario married Sandy and they became ranchers in Burkburnett that loved to travel the world. When he was not traveling, he loved playing with his grandchildren and animals, or going to an auction.
Mario is survived by his wife Sandy Sciarra, sisters Julia Propato and her husband Vincent of North Wales, PA, Rose Santucci of Philadelphia, PA, children Mario Sciarra and his wife Jennifer of Montgomery TX, Michelle Wood and her husband Steve of Wichita Falls, TX, Jessica Mitchell and her husband Scotty of Iowa Park, TX and Jacob Hilliard of Wichita Falls, TX. He is also survived by six grandchildren Mason, Brock, Riley, Reese, Ryan and Reid. Also a large, close extended family of cousins, nieces, and nephews in both the United States and Italy.
The family invites you to a visitation to honor Mario's life, which will be held at the Owens & Brumley Funeral Home in Wichita Falls on March 21, 2025 from 2 until 5pm. Military burial services will be held at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia at a future date.
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