John Peter Amato

John Peter Amato, 90, of Meadville, passed away Thursday, February 29, 2024, at home surrounded by his family.

John was born at the home of his grandmother, in Meadville, on August 31, 1933, a son of the late Sylvester and Elizabeth (Galle) Amato.

On April 7, 1956, John married Theresa M. Roda; she survives.

John was an active and long time member of St. Brigid Roman Catholic Church and the Holy Name Society where he held the office of Secretary. He also served as an usher, as Chairman of the Finance Committee, faithfully worked the fish dinners and was a 4th Degree member of the Knights of Columbus-Council #388 Assembly 1927.

A 1961 graduate of Allegheny College, John became a Certified Public Accountant in 1968. He was a partner with Bell & Company, which merged into McGill, Power, Bell & Associates, LLP in 1983. He retired as a partner in 1997 and continued to work part time up until 2022. In 1990 John and his son started J. Amato & Son Army Navy Store, which is still in operation. In his very young years, John worked at a pickle factory in Hornell, NY. A veteran, John entered the US Air Force on January 15, 1953 and served his country until his honorable discharge on January 14, 1957. He was awarded the National Defense Medal and Good Conduct Medal.

John was life member of PA Institute of CPAs (PICPA), and a member of American Institute of CPAs (AICPA). A life member of the Italian Civic Club, he was also a member of Keystone Blind Association, a charter member and second to the last surviving member of the Wolves Club Den #11, and the former Sertoma Club where he was very active with the yearly Jimmy Moore Christmas Party. Additionally John was very active with Big Brothers and Sisters and the Newman Program at Allegheny College. A sports enthusiast, he was a supporter of youth sports and was an avid fan of the New York Yankees and all things Notre Dame. In his younger years he enjoyed golfing and bowling, especially during his "Five Brothers" bowling tournaments. John leaves behind a legacy of service. He was a servant to his God, his country, his family and his community. He had a generous and helping heart, never looking for anything in return. John will be sadly missed.

In addition to his wife Theresa of 67 years, John is survived by three children Gina Amato, John Amato (Terri), Kathleen "Kathy" Knapp (Dr. Christopher) all of Meadville; eleven grandchildren Andrew Amato, Kayleigh Cirka (Brian), Monica Knapp, Joseph Amato (Jen), Dominic Knapp, Matthew Knapp, Teresa Maloney (Keith), Michael Knapp (Areail), Elizabeth Fehle (Robert), Johnna Knapp, Gina Amato; 13 great grandchildren with another on the way; two brothers Frank Amato (Pat) of Greenville, Richard Amato (Pat) of Pleasant Hills; a sister in law Jo Ann Mitchell of Meadville; many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by two brothers Dominic Amato, James Amato; a brother in law Mitch Mitchell; and Dom Galle and Joseph Musone who were like brothers.

Family and friends are invited to call from 3-7 PM on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, at STEPHEN P. MIZNER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 404 CHESTNUT ST., MEADVILLE, where a Scripture Service will be held at 6:30 PM.

A Mass of Resurrection will be celebrated at 10 AM on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, at The Epiphany of the Lord Parish, St. Brigid Church, 383 Arch St., Meadville, with Fr. Jeff Lucas officiating.

John will be laid to rest in St. Brigid Cemetery with Full Military Honors by VFW Post #2006.

Memorial contributions may be made in John's memory to Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Crawford County, 912 Diamond Park or St. James Haven, 779 N. Main St., both in Meadville, PA 16335.

Share a memory or condolence at www.miznerfuneralhome.com