Age 94, of Castle Shannon, surrounded by his loving family, on Tuesday, March 25, 2025. Beloved husband for 68 years of the late Virginia Verzella Goldaine, devoted father of John (Catherine) Goldaine. Son of the late James F. and Hazel Goldaine; brother of the late James F. Goldaine Jr. and Hazel Wood. Cherished Papa of Jonathan (Stephanie) Goldaine and Christina (Michael) Chiodo. Loving Pappy of Gabriella Jean Goldaine, Emilia Marie Goldaine, and Michael John Chiodo, and was looking forward to the addition of Baby Girl Chiodo (July 2025). Survived by loved nieces and nephews, and all of his great-grand dogs and grand dog.
John proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1954, achieving the rank of Corporal. He wed his Grade School Sweetheart, Virginia, in June of 1955. A master of many trades, John was the family Mr. Fix It in his spare time outside of his career as Tipstaff at the Allegheny County Courthouse. An amateur gourmet chef, he’d make sure the holidays and family events always had a special dish and the best spread. This included early morning trips to the Strip District with his granddaughter to get fresh fish and seafood to make their traditional Christmas Eve dinner bisque. He not only built you a kitchen, but prepared a grand meal in it, too.
Ever devoted to his faith, John volunteered in multiple ways through the years at his parish and St. Anne’s School, including re-finishing all the students’ desks as well as installing the drop-down ceiling in Harkins Hall. He dutifully occupied his reserved pew in church every Sunday with his wife. He was steadfast in his faith by serving as a Eucharistic Minister in his church and delivering the sacrament to the homebound.
A dedicated Papa, John would do anything for his cherished grandchildren, including teaching them to drive, forming unbreakable bonds and countless memories. His grandchildren smile fondly on the memory of the many car rides with Papa, and how he’d pick up his great-grand dog Cooper for daily doggy daycare and too many snacks. John was very proud of his latest title of Pappy and spent quality time with his great-grandchildren at every opportunity. He also was a dedicated husband who took wonderful care of his wife, especially during their twilight years. After a busy day of service to others, John would relax with a cocktail and crackers, getting much-deserved rest or watching the Pittsburgh Pirates regardless of their losing streak.
He leaves behind high standards of what quality craftsmanship entails, many Christmas memories of the Christmas magic (and baked goods) he’d deliver, multiple beloved jokes, more tools than the family knows what to do with, and funny anecdotes that bring comfort to everyone who had the honor of knowing him. His legacy lives on in every do-it-yourself project from his years of teaching his tricks of the trade.
Special thanks to all of the nurses (too many to mention) and his aide Tim from UPMC Family Hospice. Also a special thanks to his private caregiver, Eliass and to Visiting Angels. The family wants to extend their gratitude to the community of Saint Anne Church (St. Paul of the Cross Parish) for all that they did for John.
Friends will be welcomed at Laughlin Cremation & Funeral Tributes, 222 Washington Road, Mount Lebanon on Tuesday April 1, 2025 from 3:00-7:00 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in Saint Anne Church (St. Paul of the Cross Parish) 400 Hoodridge Drive on Wednesday April 2, 2025 at 10:30 AM. Interment at Queen of Heaven Cemetery. If desired, memorials may be made to St. Paul of the Cross Parish (Saint Anne Church).
www.laughlinfuneralhome.com
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