John Patrick Petraglia, Sr., formerly of Bethlehem, PA died on Saturday, December 23, 2023, just 7 days short of his 95th birthday at Spring Arbor Assisted Living in Greensboro, NC. Born on December 30, 1928 in Nazareth, PA, he was the son of the late Pietro and Maria Petraglia.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Irene Check Petraglia and sisters, Rose and Carmela Steen. John completed eight years of his education at Holy Family School in Nazareth, PA before enrolling in Nazareth High School, graduating in 1946. After graduation, John enrolled in the Academy of Aeronautics in New York majoring in engineering. Martin Aircraft offered him a position after graduating from the Academy. In 1951, he was drafted in the United States Army and was with an artillery unit during the Korean Conflict. He was awarded the Army Medal of Commendation for his actions. After his discharge from the Army in 1953, John enrolled in Lehigh University and received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering. After graduating from Lehigh in 1957, he entered the Loop Course with Bethlehem Steel Corporation finishing his career as Superintendent in the Drop Forge Division.
Survivors include his brother, Joe Petraglia and wife, Clara of Pennsylvania; his two sons, John Petraglia, Jr. and wife, Marie of North Carolina and Peter Petraglia and husband, Patrick of California and his two grandsons, Sean Petraglia of Pennsylvania and Peter Petraglia of North Carolina.
Family and friends are invited to his viewing 10-11am Saturday, December 30, 2023 at the Connell Funeral Home, Inc. 245 East Broad Street, Bethlehem followed by a service at 11am. Burial with Military Honors will conclude services at the Holy Saivour Cemetery, Bethlehem.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Rockingham County Honor Guard, c/o Johnny White, 4655 Price Road, Stoneville, NC 27048.
Connell Funeral Home in Bethlehem, PA and Colonial Funeral Home in Madison, NC is serving the family.
Condolences may be offered to the family at www.colonialfh.net or www.connellfuneral.com
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