Joseph A. Bodnar

Joseph A. Bodnar, 98, of Tarentum, passed away Thursday, December 29, 2022 at Allegheny Health Network Hospital, Wexford following a 3 month illness. He was born January 22, 1924 in East Deer Township to the late Michael and Mary (Pollock) Bodnar. He lived most of his life in Tarentum. Joseph was a meat cutter for Sparkle Market, Loblaw’s and Giant Eagle for over 40 years. He was a veteran of the US Army serving in WWII in the 995 Field Artillery Unit, PFC First Class in the Artillery Transport. He served in the African, Italian, French and German campaigns, and assisted the army with the liberation of Auschwitz concentration camp. He received an award from the PA Senate for his service during WWII.

Joseph was a member of the former St. Clement Church, Tarentum and was very active in his church. He was a member of St. Vincent DePaul Society, member of council, altar server, and played St. Nicholas at the holidays. He dedicated his life to the church, receiving the  Manifesting the Kingdom award from the Diocese of Pittsburgh.

            Survivors include his children, Joseph A. (Claudia) Bodnar, of Chesapeake, VA, Susan M. (Rev. Joseph) Martin, of Franklin, PA,  Phyllis M. (James) Tonseth, of Salisbury, NC, Mark A. (Katie) Bodnar, of East Deer and Robert P. Bodnar, of Tarentum; 7 grandchildren Jodi Cantrell, Julie and Christopher Martin, Maria (Steven) Groover, Philip and Anna Tonseth and Sarah Bodnar; great grandchildren Merryn Cantrell, Garrett Voelker and Peyton Groover. Also surviving is his sister Mary (Raymond) Dauer, of Tarentum, numerous nieces and nephews and countless friends.

Besides his parents he was preceded in death by his wife, Agnes  E. (Golgan)  Bodnar in 2005

            Visitation 2-7 PM Tuesday at Duster Funeral and Cremation Services, Inc. 347 E 10^th Ave, Tarentum, 724-224-1526. Christian funeral  mass will be celebrated Wednesday at 10AM in Guardian Angels Parish, Our Lady of Victory Campus, Harmar Twp. Burial will be in Our Lady of Hope Cemetery, Frazer Township with Military honors. Family suggests contributions to St. Vincent DePaul Society of one’s choice. VISIT: dusterfh.com