John S. Banaszak

Age 88, of Castle Shannon (formerly of Green Tree), on Monday, July 7, 2014. Beloved husband of 55 years to the late Theresa Dempsey Banaszak; loving and caring father of Joanne (Chuck) McCartney of Upper St. Clair and Susan (Jeff) Ammon of Nashville, TN; devoted "Pap Pap" grandfather to Chris (Tiffany) and Matt McCartney and Daniel, Blaine and Jessica Ammon; son of the late Walter and Pauline Banaszak; brother to the late Edward (surviving Lil), Thomas (Sylvia), and Anthony (surviving Sandy) Banaszak; survived by in-laws, Judge Michael J. and Mary Alice O'Malley, Ruth Dempsey Horowitz; and nieces and nephews. John proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II in the Pacific Theater receiving two purple hearts for distinguished service at the battles of Saipan, Okinawa, Guadalcanal, Iwo Jima and Japan. He was with the 6th Division, 4th Marine Regiment, 2nd Battalion, Fox Company. He was a delivery driver at Kaufmann's for over 40 years and a Teamster Union member. He loved to talk to people, enjoyed his Polka music, loved gardening, flowers and animals. He fed the birds every morning as they waited outside his window. He loved his cat, Jamie, and carried dog treats in his scooter as he rode around Castle Ridge Apts., where all his neighbors knew and loved him. Friends will be welcomed at WILLIAM SLATER II FUNERAL SERVICE, 412-563-2800, 1650 Greentree Rd., Pittsburgh, PA 15220 on Thursday 1-4 and 6-9 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Anne's Catholic Church in Castle Shannon on Friday, July 11, 2014, at 11:30 a.m. He loved flowers, but remembrances may also be made to St. Anne's Church Eucharistic Ministry, whose members were so caring and attentive to his spiritual needs.