John Sabato

SABATO
JOHN, July 21, 2006, age 87. Beloved
husband of the late Shirley (nee Shrader). Beloved father of John (Peggy), Edmund (Patricia), the late JoAnne Wanenchak (Robert) and the late Philip Sabato. He will be kept in loving memory by 9 grandchildren, one great grandchild and countless extended family members and friends. Born to immigrant parents in Panther WV, he graduated from Big Creek High School in War WV and worked in the coal mines with his brothers Leo, Angelo and Sam before serving 3 years in the US Army. As a WWII Combat Veteran of Campaigns in N. Africa, Sicily, France, Belgium, the Battle of Bulge and Normandy, he survived a torpedo attack, malaria, bullets and sharpnel wounds, and the loss of many friends in combat, hoping only to return to his Shirley. He was awarded 2 Purple Hearts, a Bronze Star for valor, and a battlefield commission to 2nd Lieutenant. He was life long member and past president of the 9th Infantry Division Association. He worked as an Inspector for the PA Turnpike and The Budd Co. where he served on the executive board of UAW Local #813. He retired in 1984 to enjoy sleeping late, telling war stories, cheering the Eagles, and well earned time with his family. Relatives and friends invited to his Viewing Tues. 7-9 P.M. and Wed. 9 A.M., RUFFENACH FUNERAL HOME, 21st & Snyder Ave. Funeral Mass Wed., St. Edmond Church, 10 A.M. Int. SS Peter and Paul Cemetery, Springfield PA.