He was employed as a local tractor trailer driver for Eastern Express Company for 20 years as well as Wilson Express, Red Star, Roadway, and finally retiring from Yellow Freight. He was a member of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters Local 776, serving as both Steward and Business Agent for a period of time. He enjoyed hunting and fishing as well as camping with his family and friends.
He served in the Navy from 1948-1953. His Korean war service was from 1950-1952 on the USS Colahan DD658. He served as an Electrician’s Mate, Petty Officer, 3rd Class. He was awarded the Korean Service Medal 2 Star and the United Nations Medal.
John was passionately dedicated to the 40&8, An Honor Society of American Veterans. He was a constant and formidable leader of Voiture 269 and our 40&8 holding various officer positions during his 58 years of membership. At the local level, he served as Chef de Gare from 2005-2007, and again in 2019. Since 2023, he has served actively as Correspondent, Lampiste, and Historien. He was the Grande Cheminot for the South-Central District of PA from 2012-2013. He worked tirelessly to support the charitable programs of the 40&8 and was committed to making our local 40&8 the success it is today. John loved spending time at the club and sharing stories with fellow veterans and friends. In 2025, John was awarded Voyageur of the Year for Locale 269. He embodied the true spirit of a Voyageur Militaire for La Societe des Quarante Hommes et Huit Chevaux - The Society of Forty Men and Eight Horses. He was also a member of Legion Post 998 and the VFW.
He was born April 26, 1930, in Altoona, PA to the late Michele and Teresa (Cerulley) Scarangella.
He is survived by two daughters, Maria F. Ferretti of Harrisburg and Angela L. Eshleman of York, four grandchildren, Sarah and Logan Ferretti and Cory and Erin Eshleman, and one great-grandchild, Charles David Mione and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his loving wife Patricia of 63 years, sisters Caroline and Elizabeth; and brothers Anthony, James, Louis and Michael.
Services will be held Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at Neill Funeral Home, 3501 Derry Street, Harrisburg, PA 17111.
Visitation will be 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Services will begin at Noon. Burial will be in Rolling Green Cemetery, 1811 Carlisle Rd, Camp Hill, PA 17011. Luncheon and fellowship will follow at the 40 & 8 Club, 5831 Chambers Hill Rd, Harrisburg, PA 17111.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Voiture 269, 5831 Chambers Hill Rd, Harrisburg, PA 17111.
