John Joseph Donzella

John Joseph Donzella, age 96, Erwin, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 29, 2020 at the Center on Aging and Health. He is a son of the late Carmelo and Concetta Burfatto Donzella. He was born and raised in North Tarrytown, NY. John lived most of his life in Florida before moving to Erwin in 2007. 

He was a United States Army Veteran having served his country honorably during WWII. John was awarded the Asiatic Pacific Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Philippines Liberation Ribbon, and WWII Victory Medal. 

He retired from the United States Postal Service where he served as a Mail Carrier for twenty-nine years. John was a member of St. Michael The Archangel Catholic Church. 

He was a loving father, grandfather, and great grandfather. John loved his church, music and singing in the choir. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of sixty-eight years, Adelina R. Donzella; one brother, George Donzella; three sisters: Angie DeSoto, Nellie Voltararo and Nellie Guerrieri. 

He leaves behind to cherish his memory two sons: John C. Donzella (Christine), PA, David Donzella (Robin Bepler), FL; one daughter, Darlene Donzella Riddle (James), Erwin; six grandchildren: Genevieve, Michele, Derek, Ryan, Anthony and James; nine great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews also survive. 

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, August 4, 2020 in the St. Michael The Archangel Catholic Church. Father Tom Charters will officiate. Committal will be held at 1:00 PM on Tuesday in the Mountain Home National Cemetery Historical Section. Those wishing to attend are asked to meet at the cemetery by 12:50 PM Tuesday. 

The VA enforces social distancing and requires all attendees wear a mask, those who do not wish to adhere to these guidelines will be asked to stay in their vehicle. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made in memory of John to: St. Michael The Archangel Catholic Church, PO Box 1009, Erwin, TN 37650. 

Online condolences, photos and memories may be shared with the Donzella family at www.ledfordfuneralhomes.com  

Robert Ledford Funeral Home, 720 Ohio Avenue, Erwin, is privileged to serve the Donzella family.  (423) 743-1380.

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