John Bertone

John “Johnny” Bertone of Penn Township passed away peacefully on June 10, 2023 at the age of 103. He was the son of the late Angelo Antonio Bertone and Francesca Lucia Sandretto Bertone and was raised by his late Aunt Pierina Bertone Sprecace (Phillip). He was born January 3, 1920 in Wilkinsburg and enjoyed a long and happy life. He was preceded in death by the love of his life, Helen Astorino Bertone who had passed on March 14, 2001; his two brothers, Pete (Josepha “Toots”) Bertone and Ben (Rose) Bertone; cousins Angelo (Cecilia) Tomaino, Albert (Betty) Tomaino, Phillip Sprecace and Richard Sprecace. He is survived by his beloved children, Gregory A. (Patricia) Bertone and Susan Lee Bertone. He enlisted and was inducted into the Army June 12, 1943 and served in Company D 168th Infantry Regiment, 34th “Red Bull” Division landing in North Africa and then on to Italy where he spent the rest of the war. There he saw combat in Naples, the northern Apennine Mountains, the Po Valley, Anzio, Monte Casino and Rome. His “Red Bull” division was in six major campaigns and saw combat 517 days, more than any other division. Sgt. Bertone was awarded the European-African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with four Bronze Stars, the World War II Victory Medal, the Combat Infantry Badge 1st Award, and the Expert Badge with Field Artillery Bar and Rifle Bar, Honorable Service Lapel Button WWII and Good Conduct Medal. On January 26, 1946, a little more than a month after returning home from the war, he married Helen E. Astorino. They were engaged on Pearl Harbor Day, December 7, 1941, a few hours before learning of the Japanese attack. After discharge from the Army, he resumed his job as a machinist at Mine Safety Appliance and retired after 45 years of service. On April 20, 1941 he joined the Order Italian Sons and Daughters of America (ISDA) as a member of La Pace Lodge # 16. He continued in the ISDA joining Gateway Lodge # 241 in 1969 and then La Vita Nuova Lodge # 271 in 1979 where he became President. John remained President of La Vita Nuova Lodge until his death. He was the oldest living member of the Order and the oldest President of an ISDA Lodge. He also served on the Board of Directors and as a National Councilor being held in great regard and high esteem by the Order. Music was always a part of his life. He was also a talented professional vocalist (tenor) who, for years, performed in many popular venues with local bands and orchestras. His pleasant personality, dedication to his family and service to his country will always be remembered. The family extends special gratitude to Dr. Kevin Wong and Pastor Gary LaPietra. Visitation and services were private for the family. Donations in his name may be made to the Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh, 6926 Hamilton Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA. 15208. Arrangements were entrusted to the GENE H. CORL FUNERAL CHAPEL INC. AND CREMATION SERVICES OF MONROEVILLE. www.corlfuneralchapel.com.