John P. Novalesi, 90, of Ellwood City (formerly of Wampum) passed away Thursday, August 22, 2024 at Cambridge Falls following a brief illness.
Born February 14, 1934 in Wampum, he was the son of the late Emilio and Emma Barrichini Novalesi. He was married to Marlene J. Karner Novalesi for 28 years when she passed in 1985.
John graduated from Wampum High School 1953, where he was named as an All-State Basketball Player. He then went to St. Francis College in Loretto PA on a full basketball scholarship earning his bachelor’s degree. After graduating college, he taught US History at Riverside High School for 30 years from their conception until his retirement. John was the first basketball coach for their program. In 2007, he was inducted into the Lawrence County Sports Hall of Fame. He started the first Youth for America Club which started the first recycling program in the area. He served as the superintendent of the recycling program after his retirement from teaching. While teaching he worked construction for many summers with Tony Yannielo. He was a member of the Divine Grace Parish Holy Redeemer Church in Ellwood City, F&AM 599, and the New Castle Consistory. John enjoyed playing the accordion and polka dancing at the SNPJ.
Survivors include fiancée, Carol Ferrigno of Koppel; son, John E. Novalesi of Wampum; four daughters, Marla Jo (Ken) Clem of New Castle, Lori Anne (John) Thomas of San Diego, Carole S. (David) Houghton of Ellwood City, and Shari L. Schmeltz of Phoenix; 10 grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren with one on the way.
The last of his family he was preceded in death by his parents, wife Marlene; daughter Lisa M. Simpson; three brothers, Mario, Merino, and Dean, and his sister Mary Sharek.
Visiting hours will be held on Sunday August 25, 2024 from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm and from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the Marshall Funeral Home, 341 Main Street Wampum.
A blessing service will be held at the Funeral Home, on August 26, 2024 at 11:00 am with Father Joseph Freedy officiating.
Interment will follow in Holy Redeemer Cemetery.
Memorial Contributions may be made to the Maguire Home in New Brighton.
Online condolences may be sent to marshallsfh.com
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