John was born October 14, 1924, in Steelton; the youngest son and last of the family line, to the late Rudolph and Lucy Knoll Pilsits.
He was a U.S. Army Veteran of World War II, stationed in India with the 748th Railway Operating Battalion. He was an avid Notre Dame fan, enjoyed reading mystery books, and walking, especially the times when he would see someone and just say "Hi."
John was preceded in death by his wife of 47 years, Mary E. Magaro Pilsits. He is survived by four sons and one daughter; John Jr. of Aurora, IL, Richard of Enola, Dennis of Philadelphia, Keith of Etters, and Robin Kay Deibler of Wrightsville; nine grandchildren and three great grandchildren, as well as several nieces and nephews.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, November 27, 2023, at 11:00 am, in Seven Sorrows Catholic Church, 360 E. Water Street, Middletown, PA, with Rev. Timothy J. Sahd. Viewing will be held in the narthex of the church from 10:00 am, until the time of service. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery, West Hanover Twp.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Oak Hill Village for the Benevolent Fund.