John P. Sparvero, Sr.

Age 88, of Dormont passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 10, 2024.  He was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Rosemary (Paulssen).

John was born April Fool’s Day 1936 in the Hill District.  At 6’8” tall he graduated from North Catholic HS with a scholarship to play basketball at Toledo University.  It was at Toledo where Big John met his one true love, Rose, a nursing student at St. Vincent Hospital.  They married in 1959 and he brought her back to Pittsburgh (kicking and screaming) to get down to their life’s work: building a family. 

John is survived by the Family Manager Carol (Dan) Matt, John Jr. (Gina), Dan (Liz Garvey), Mary Lynn (the late JJ) Gahr, and Kathy (Bruce) Downing.  He was the proud grandfather and great-grandfather of Dan (Leah) Matt, their sons Teddy and Henry; Elyse (Sean) Wolff, their son Elliot; brothers Colton and Logan Sparvero; siblings Brock and Brenna Downing; and Katie Sparvero.  He will be deeply missed by Rose’s sister Tricia (Jack) Pierce and their children, his favorite nephew and nieces.

John began his teaching career at South Hills Catholic HS.  In 1972 he moved to Westinghouse HS where he taught science and coached basketball with the great Fred Yee, eventually becoming head coach and the Science and Math coordinator for the City’s magnet program.  It was at the ‘House that he became Coach Sparky, or just Spark, known for his quick wit and eclectic tie collection.

John lived a life of service to his community.  He faithfully served St. Bernard’s Church in Mt. Lebanon in various capacities for more than 50 years.  He was elected to multiple terms on the Keystone Oaks school board and Dormont Boro council; spent decades with the Dormont Athletic Boosters and Cub Scouts; served on the board of Dormont Library and MRTSA; and volunteered at Ohio Valley General Hospital.  Even in retirement he continued his dedication to teaching by conducting AARP safe driving courses.  In 2018 he received the AARP Andrus Award in recognition of his longtime commitment to community service.

For someone who couldn’t sit still he enjoyed fishing. He loved traveling with Rose and their lifelong friends Jack & Jackie.  He was always up to date on Pittsburgh sports and current events. He was a proud member of the Pittsburgh Federation of Teachers.

He will be missed by those who knew him, but they will be consoled by the lasting impression he made on their lives. 

Family and friends will be received at LAUGHLIN CREMATION & FUNERAL TRIBUTES, 222 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon, on Thursday, Oct. 17th from 2:00 until 4:00 PM. and 6:00 until 8:00 PM.  Mass of Christian Burial will be offered in St. Bernard Church (St. Michael the Archangel Parish) on Friday, Oct. 18th at 10:00 AM.

If desired, memorials may be made to the Dormont Public Library.

www.laughlinfuneralhome.com

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