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Joseph Ionta Obituary
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Age 71, of Monroeville, passed away on Tuesday, March 4, 2025. Beloved husband of Linda Young Ionta; Loving brother of Dominic (Karen) Ionta and the late Vincent (Kaye) Ionta; Also survived by his nieces & nephew, Thomas, Tracy, Domenic Jr., Joy, Jeaneen, Jodi, Michele, and Richard; his great-niece Ashleigh; Preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Josephine Ionta.
Joe was inducted to Plum High School, Hall of Fame on November 8, 2012. On June 13, 2017, Joe was honored at the annual Positive Attitude Pittsburgh Awards Ceremony at the Senator John Heinz History Center. As a long time track and cross-country coach at Plum, he mentored thousands of student athletes over his 40+ years at the school. He continued to do so after a leukemia diagnosis in the 1970's. Not wallowing in his misfortune, he made a difference for others with leukemia through Pitt's Hillman Cancer Center. He spearheaded the annual stampede in the park race for more than 10 years. At one point $240,000 was raised for cancer research. Ionta, along with 31 other coaches and student athletes from the WPIAL and throughout Western Pennsylvania, were celebrated by Positive Athlete Pittsburgh for their positive attitudes in and out of the sports arenas. The program's seven definitions of a positive attitude are as follows: An optimistic attitude, Always encouraging teammates, Being a servant leader, Showing heart for others, Admitting imperfections, Always giving 100% and Putting the team first. The goal is to be the most valuable person possible with God's help.
Friends will be received Saturday, March 8, 2025, 9:00 am - 11:00 am at the JOBE FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, INC., 118 Shaw Avenue, Turtle Creek (412-823-1950), where a blessing service will be March 8, 2025 11:00 am. Interment to follow at Good Shepherd Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Presbyterian Church of Pitcairn. Please add or view tributes at www.jobefuneralhome.com.
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118 Shaw Ave. P. O. Box 110, Turtle Creek, PA 15145
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