LEONI JOHN C. Age 82, of Shaler Twp., on March 2, 2015. Husband of Rita A.; father of Laura Minnis (Brian) and Giancarlo J. "Gianny" Leoni; son of the late Giuseppe and Veraconda Leoni; grandfather of Shannon Key; brother of the late Enrico "Rico" Leoni (surviving wife, Elima); also beloved pets, Myla Giovanna and deceased, Pod and Pard. John was born in Bussolengo, Verona, ltaly. At the age of 16, he and his family traveled to America where they settled In East Liberty. John and his brother, Rico, quickly adapted to American culture through movies, music and the language. Soon he was mentored by his Uncle Gino who was a stone mason and became hooked on the trade. John always said he was in two wars, as a child in Italy during WW II, and the Korean War where he honorably served the U.S. He enjoyed going "Upstreet in his younger days where he played ping pong, bocce, bowling and pool. John was proud of his Italian heritage, enjoyed northern Italian food, playing cards and tombola with family and friends. John's lifelong passion for stonework created projects specializing in limestone, granite and marble in PA, Maryland and Washington, D.C. Locally, he contributed to the Midfield Terminal at Greater Pittsburgh Intern'l Airport, Heinz Hall's garden patio and fountain and various downtown structures. In his Glenshaw neighborhood, he helped construct the foundation for the Christ statue at St. Bonaventure Church. John shared his talent in building garden benches, fireplaces, walls, patios and steps for friends and family's homes. He was a proud member of the International Bricklayers and Allied Craft Workers Union Local 9 for more than 60 years. His quick wit, clever personality, loyalty and unconditional love will be missed. Our beloved Dad, Best Friend and amateur film critic is presently working on the stone pillars at the Gates of Heaven. There will be no visitation. Funeral Mass will be held on Sat., March 7, 2015, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Bonaventure Church, Glenshaw. Interment to be held at a future date. Memorials may be made to Little Sisters of the Poor, 1028 Benton Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15212. Arrg. by NEELY FUNERAL HOME, Glenshaw, PA. Please visit us at: www.neelyfuneralhome.com Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
