John Frenett

FRENETT - John Of Blasdell, entered into rest on July 27, 2023. Beloved husband of the late Mary (nee Stevanoff) Frenett; devoted father of John (Lynn) Frenett and Michele Frenett; cherished grandfather of Alexander Frenett, Benjamin Frenett, Marissa Frenett and grand dog Bella; loving son of the late Pauline (nee Kraus) and Michael Ufrenevicz; dear brother of the late Mary (late Joseph) Lutchko and the late George (late Isabelle) Frenett. John was a US Army Veteran. Private Service. Arrangements by LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Southtowns Chapel). Born John Ufrenevicz (later John Frenett) in 1928, Dad was a first-generation American. His parents, Michael and Pauline, resided with their growing familychildren Mary, George, and Johnin eastern Pennsylvanias coal country. Michael worked in Nanticokes anthracite mines. The Great Depression left an indelible impression on all who endured it. Dad never forgot the struggles of his early years, a time before Social Security and widespread unionization. Thereafter, hed be thrifty when it came to himself, but generous to those in need. Both Michael and Pauline passed away before Dads teenage years. In the 1940 census, older sister Mary was noted as being the head of household. Later, after she had married Joseph Lutchko, a move linked to her husbands employment ensued. For the balance of his youth, Dad lived with the Lutchkos in Altoona (PA). Dads strong work ethic was forged in boyhood jobs at a soda fountain and the local church. With increased age came a brief stint in a meat packing plant. He became a store manager at an Acme grocery store in downtown Altoona. Even 70+ years beyond that experience, Dad retained a keen interest in the grocery businessstore configuration, advertising, pricing, and so forth. Too young to be a soldier in World War II, Dad volunteered with the Pennsylvania 28th Infantry Division in 1950. Basic training was conducted at Camp Atterbury (IN). His unit shipped out from Camp Kilmer (NJ) for duty in post-WWII Germany (based in Stuttgart). Returning home in 1952, troops observed the results of rapid changes stateside. Within a few years, Dad left Altoona for Buffalo (NY). Ford Motor Company offered improved economic opportunity. Ford remained his employer for over three decades. In 1958, Dad married Mary Stevanoff, daughter of Eftin and Vasilka Stevanoff of Blasdell, NY. By 1960, Dad and Mom had a son (John Eftin) and daughter (Michele). Pets, ranging from fish to a dog (Rebel), rounded out the household. Family, nuclear and extended, would be the focal point over the years that followed. Grandchildren Alexander, Benjamin, and Marissa Frenett arrived in the 1996-2001 time frame (John Eftin and wife Lynn). They brought great joy to their grandparents. Mom and Dad loved hearing about what they thought, their interests, and what theyd learned/achieved. After Moms passing in 2014, Dad remained in the home theyd built. He was at his happiest there, whether working on projects or entertaining guests. He took pleasure in giving treats to frequent visitor Bella (Micheles dog). Dad maintained his independence past his 95th birthday. He stayed active within the UAW, kept up on the news, and enjoyed sports. A bit over a month prior to his passing, Dad was still driving to various appointments, running errands, and searching for bargains. We miss him dearly. Yet, he lives on within us, in memories, in stories, and in what he instilled.