John F. Valella

John F. Valella, 69, of 514 Deissler Court, Meadville, passed away Tuesday, October 16th, 2012 at Meadville Medical Center.
John was born in Meadville, on November 29, 1942, a son of the late Frank 'Stud' and Theresa (Euliano) Valella.
On October 10, 2003 John married Barb Whitmer; she survives.
He was a member of St. Mary of Grace Roman Catholic Church, Meadville.
In April of 2011, John retired from the former Roda Shoe Store, Meadville, which he had owned for 31 years. A veteran, John entered the US Army on November 29, 1960 and served his country until his honorable discharge on November 27, 1963. He was a 1960 graduate of Meadville High School, a former member of Meadville Sertoma Club and a former member of the Italian Civic Club where he had served as treasurer for several years. John was known as 'the Mayor of Market Street'; always friendly and willing to provide a welcoming atmosphere to anyone visiting with him. He was also known as a huge Dean Martin fan and as someone quick for cracking jokes. John enjoyed playing the lottery and traveling, especially to Vermont.
In addition to his wife, Barb, John is survived by a brother Vito Valella and his wife Gerry of Kalamazoo, MI and five nieces.
In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by a sister Mary Groger and an infant brother.
Family and friends are invited to call on Friday from 2-6 at Stephen P. Mizner Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., 404 Chestnut St., Meadville, where a scripture service will be conducted at 2 PM.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Mary of Grace Roman Catholic Church, 1085 Water St., Meadville, at 10:00 AM on Saturday, October 20th, 2012 with Fr. Marc Solomon, Pastor, officiating.
Interment with Full Military Honors by VFW Post #2006 will take place in St. Brigid Cemetery, West Mead Twp.
Memorial contributions may be made to American Diabetes Assoc., Landmark Bldg, 100 W. Station Square Dr., 1st Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15219 or Meadville Market House, 910 Market St., Meadville, PA 16335 or a charity of the donors choice .
Share your condolences at www.miznerfuneralhome.com