Harry Valentine Ponte

Harry Valentino Ponte was born in Parnassus, PA, on February 14th, Valentine’s Day, in 1928. In his lifetime that spanned nearly 100 years, his greatest accomplishment was his unconditional love and care for his family. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife Ernestine, and an adored father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was loved by his children and grandchildren, who already miss him greatly.

Born to John and Itala Ponte, he was the third of four sons, and grew up in an Italian family that came to the US in the early 1900’s. Harry was very proud of his Italian heritage and was able to visit his father’s birthplace near Torino, Italy, with Ernestine in 2000.

He had great respect for his dad but recalled his best days of childhood as those spent in Kentucky visiting with his own Uncle Harry. He regularly regaled his family with teenage tales of his close calls, escapades with his buddy “Dingbat”, and a 1937 Harley-Davidson. Fortunately, he survived those antics and went on to meet the love of his life, Ernestine (Skrabak). They met at a community dance in 1949, married in May 1950, and celebrated 76 years of marriage this year.

They settled in Port Vue, Pennsylvania, and children came soon after. They raised three daughters: Debbie, Jacki, and Lorri. Early married life in Pennsylvania included lots of family time with the girls, their grandparents, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Sunday drives and family picnics from that time hold very special memories. The Pontes’ adventures continued with a move to Phoenix, Arizona, in the summer of 1963. They were welcomed by the Nebiolo family, cousins who lived in Prescott. In Arizona, the Ponte family grew to eventually include 10 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Harry claimed to never be very good in school, but working side by side with his father from the age of 13, he became a highly skilled auto mechanic. He favored Chevrolets but never came across anything with an engine and wheels that he didn’t find interesting. He worked with his dad at the family business, J. S. Ponte and Sons Auto Service, in East McKeesport, PA. When the family moved west and settled in Phoenix, he began working as a mechanic for Lou Grubb Chevrolet. He retired in 1993 after 31 years of service, but the company soon brought him back as a road tester, where he used his expertise to ensure jobs were done right the first time. Lou Grubb said Harry would always have a job there if he wanted one and allowed him to work from November to June, so he could enjoy summers at the cabin.

Harry had an excellent work ethic but always found ways to enjoy his leisure time with his wife and family.

He loved music, especially classic country, and always had the radio playing throughout the day. Ask any grandkid, and they’ll describe many fond memories of grandpa accompanied by a classic country soundtrack.

He met Ernestine at a dance, and they kept dancing throughout their life together. Whether it was Friday nights at Mr. Lucky’s, family weddings, or adult center events, if their favorite music was playing, they were on the dance floor. He last danced with Ernestine on his 97th birthday.

Harry was an avid golfer and spent a lot of time on the links, even into his 90s. He loved golfing with family and friends. When he wasn’t on the course, he was watching his favorite golfers on television.

He loved anything outdoors and always took the family along for the adventure. Water skiing at Lake Pleasant. Camping in the mountains. Fishing, just about anywhere (although we all know Grandma is the one who really knew what to feed the fish).

Harry and Ernestine bought property and built “The Cabin” in the Flagstaff area in 1976. It soon became the family getaway in the high country. On winter weekends, everyone packed in like sardines for ski trips and tobogganing. Adventurous summer vacations included long walks, motorbike rides, and endless games of Uno. Whatever the season, you could always count on Harry to tell a good story and let any kid beat him at checkers.

Harry and Ernestine were lifelong Catholics and longtime members of Saints Simon and Jude Cathedral Parish. In their later years, they enjoyed making friends at the Glendale and Flagstaff Adult Centers.

Harry was special from the day he was born. He was celebrated by his family every year on Valentine’s Day with big hearts, lots of hugs, and Italian food. He will be remembered for his wry sense of humor, his tall tales, and his beautiful blue eyes.

He always made a point to thank those who helped him, and the family extends their gratitude to family, friends, and neighbors who helped care for him in his final months.

Our family gatherings also include a remembrance of their daughter, Jacki, who passed away before him in November 2023.

In remembrance of Harry and his beautiful blue eyes, the family requests that you wear blue to the memorial services.

"As you walk down the fairway of life, you must smell the roses, for you only get to play one round." - Ben Hogan

Visitation will be held at Phoenix Memorial Park and Mortuary, 200 West Beardsley Road, Phoenix, Arizona, on October 28, 2026, from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm, with the Rosary at the same location on October 28, 2026, from 7:30 pm to 8:00 pm.

A Funeral Mass will take place at St Simon and Jude Cathedral Church, 6351 N. 27th Ave, Phoenix, Arizona, on October 29, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.

A Committal Service will be held at SCI Arizona Funeral Services, Inc., 200 West Beardsley Road, Phoenix, AZ 85027, US, on October 29, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 12:30 pm, followed by a Catered Reception at Phoenix Memorial Park and Mortuary, 200 West Beardsley Road, Phoenix, Arizona, on October 29, 2026, from 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm.