John A. Tortorea

January 8, 1945 - December 24, 2018

John A. Tortorea Sr. (Johnny Bench) John passed away peacefully on December 24, 2018 surrounded by his family. He is survived by the love of his life of 50 years, his wife Lucille (Lu) Tortorea, his loving children, daughter Sara Lynn "Say Say" Tortorea, her significant other Michael Hahn, his son John "TJ" Tortorea Jr. and daughter-in-law Heather Tortorea, and his six beloved grandchildren Skyler Tortorea, Roman Tortorea, Augustin Tortorea, Philomena Tortorea, Edward Wynkoop, and Juilin Tortorea. He was a loving brother to Donna Sharps (significant other, John Milan), Joann Poilucci (husband David), Dianne Hornyak (husband Joe), and Joseph Rafaloski (wife Kim). John was also survived by his trusted brother-in-law Edward Kutosky Jr. and his life-long friend Ronald "Peppi" Pietrone. John is now at peace with his parents Frances and Robert Rafaloski, and his father and mother-in-law Edward and Phyllis "Mimi" Kutosky. John was a loving and giving husband, father and Pap Pap who worked hard his entire life to provide for his family. John would often work two jobs at a time to ensure his family's quality of life. John's best memories came from when he worked at the H.J Heinz Co. where he worked for thirty eight years. John received many acknowledgements and recognitions for his service to the Heinz Company: including being nominated for "Man of the Year" several times during his tenure. John was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting and fishing. He always looked forward to going to our camp (the 4-1's) and spending time with his family and friends. He especially loved fishing with his grandchildren and telling "stories" of his legendary hunting and fishing adventures. John had a passion for playing and coaching sports. He played for the semi-pro football team the Bloomfield Rams, where he was named team MVP in 1960. John played for a number of championship softball teams where he received the nick name "Johnny Bench" for his ability behind the plate. Later on he would go onto coach softball and high school football with his son. He was dearly loved by his family and friends, and will be truly missed. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Sandy, John's (hospice Nurse) for her dedication and loving care that she provided for John, and her support for Lucille. The family would also like to thank all of the hospice nurses at West Penn Hospital for the care they provided to John the final days of his journey. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, January 12, 2018 at 10:00 am at Saint Maria Goretti Parish, St. Joseph Church.