James Fernando Joseph Todesco Sr. passed away peacefully on Sunday evening, August 4, 2019 at the Southeast Louisiana War Veterans Home in Reserve. He was 93 years old. Beloved husband of the late Elmera Taylor Todesco. Loving father of James “Tony” Todesco Jr. (Pamela), John Todesco, Jerry Todesco (Erica), and Joseph Todesco (Lesley). Loving grandfather of 13 and great-grandfather of 17. He had one brother and three sisters, and is survived by many nieces and nephews. He was born on March 15, 1926 in the coal-mining town of Fairmont, West Virginia. He proudly and courageously enlisted in the United States Navy at the age of 16 to serve his country during World War II. He traveled and fought on numerous ships in both the European and Pacific Theaters during WWII, as well as the Korean War, including LST 375 (landing craft), USS Thetis Bay (CVE9 Carrier), USS Higbee (DDR 806 Destroyer), USS Breckinridge (APA36 Transporter), USS Salish (AS87 Sea Going Tug), LSM 58 (Medium Landing Ship), USS Orion (AS Sub-Tender Mothership), UMP 2 Mine Planter, and the USS Sealion (SS 272 Submarine). He was taken as a prisoner in China while evacuating US missionaries, and when released he was rewarded with a handshake and a glass of whiskey. He met his beloved Elmera while stationed in New Orleans, where he remained for the rest of his life. After retiring from the Navy, he assisted with the building of the floodgates in New Orleans for the Corps of Engineers. His family would like to extend their most sincere gratitude to the Staff of the Southeast Louisiana Water Veterans Home, Heart of Hospice, and his home sitters, Joslyn and Paula for the loving care they provided during the final years and days of his life. A private inurnment will be held at a later date in Lake Lawn Park. An online guestbook is available at www.leitzeaganfuneralhome.com.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
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