John E. Pencola

Pencola - John, E., 89, of Johnstown, went to be with the Lord on May 23, 2024. Born November 10, 1934 in Johnstown, son of John and Anna (Kush) Penkala. Preceded in death by his parents; stepson, Anthony George; brother, Blaine, Walter and Stanley; and sisters, Ann Pencola and Jennie Mitnik; sister-in-law, Clara Pencola, and brother-in-law, Anthony Perry.

He is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Palma (Sartiano) Pencola; and stepson, Frank George of Johnstown; step-grandchildren, Frankie Paul, Julie Anne, Taylor and Anthony George; close sister-in-law, Carmela Perry; nieces and nephews, Tom Pynkala of Johnstown; John and Jim Pencola of Maryland, Mary Ann Brilhart of Johnstown, and Patricia Kassick of East Conemaugh, Patty Pencola of East Conemaugh.

John was a 1952 graduate of East Conemaugh High School and a 1965 graduate of Concord College, Athens, WV, where he was the pianist for the Concord College Stage Band (The Commanders).  He earned a Masters degree in Music Education from Indiana University in 1968.  He taught Music at Ferndale Area High School, Conemaugh Township, Westmont, Richland, and Greater Johnstown School Districts, and retired from the Conemaugh Valley School District in 2002. He was a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church, Moxham.

John performed locally for over fifty years with several bands. The bands were:  Jimmy Cannin, Steve Stralko, Walter Werzyn, Kenny Freddes, George Arcurio, Anthony Crisafulli (Corky Christy), Jon Eardley, The Laddie Timko Quartet, Mike Bodolosky (Jazz In Your Face), and was accompanist for the Frank Filia Trio. Was solo pianist for thirty years at the Surf & Turf Inn. Recently he was the pianist at the Harrigan’s Café and Wine Deck. Member of the Harmonie Singing Society. Member of the Local No. 41 Musicians Union for fifty-two years.

Friends will be received from 3-8 p.m. on Thursday, May 30^th, at the Harris Funeral Home, 500 Cherry Lane, Richland, where Vigil for the deceased will be held. Funeral mass will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, May 31^st, at St. Patrick Catholic Church, Very Reverend Matthew Baum. Committal service will take place at St. Anthony’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to the family. Online condolences may be posted to www.wharrisfuneralhome.com.