John Edward Carpenter

John Edward Carpenter, Jr., age 64, of New Philadelphia, died Wednesday, May 8, 2013 in his residence following many years of health struggles.

Born on April 1, 1949, at Mechanicville, New York, John was a son of the late John Edward and Marie (Stagliano) Carpenter, Sr.

At the age of nine, John’s family relocated to Arizona where he graduated from Cortez High School. After a year of college, John entered the United States Air Force and served two tours of duty in Vietnam. Having achieved the rank of Sergeant during his service to his country, he was honorably discharged from active duty on October 6, 1971.

In 1976, John met his soul mate, the former Mary Shari Virzi, and on May 21, 1977 the couple married in Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church. In 1989, the couple relocated to the Tuscarawas Valley where they placed their membership with Sacred Heart Catholic Church at New Philadelphia.

Professionally, John worked for Canal Dover Furniture and through the years, he became known around the valley as a professional re-finisher of fine furniture and antiques. A talented craftsman, he was called upon by many to repair clocks, wicker furniture, and other house hold items and became a respected appraiser of such items. In his free time, he enjoyed working on car engines, doing electrical work, and listening to classical music.

In addition to his wife of nearly 36 years, John is survived by three children, Amanda (Michael) Aita of Corning, New York, John E. Carpenter, III of Mayfield Heights, Ohio and Eric V. Carpenter of Hollywood, California; and two grandchildren, Noah and Lucienne Aita.

Completing the family are three sisters, one brother and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family will receive guests on Saturday, May 11, 2013 from 9:30 – 10:00 AM in the Sacred Heart Catholic Church at New Philadelphia. Father Jeff Coning will celebrate a Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday at 10:00 AM. Burial with military honors, provided by the Carl C. Stoller Post, 1445 of the New Philadelphia VFW will follow in the Calvary Cemetery at New Philadelphia. Following services, all are invited to share in a meal and fellowship in St. Abrose Hall, adjacent to the church.

Those wishing to do so may send the family a personal condolence and light a candle in remembrance of John by visiting the funeral home website at www.GeibCares.com.