John Russell Reitano August 2021 Honor A Deceased Veteran

John Russell Reitano
1926-2005

FAMILY HISTORY:
John Russell Reitano was born on February 6, 1926 in Troy, New York to the late Mary (Marvelli) and Anthony Reitano. He was the brother of Kay, Antoinette and Angeline. John grew up in Troy and later resided in Colonie, New York and then Mechanicville, New York.

EDUCATION:
He attended St. Peter’s School in Troy from 1930-1938, Troy High School from 1939-1942, and later went on to attend Troy Business School.

HISTORY:
John enlisted in the United States Navy on November 2, 1943 in Albany, New York and served during World War II with the rank of Seaman First Class. He received bootcamp training at the Naval Training Center in Sampson, New York. John served as gunners mate with ACORN 45 in helping with the liberation of the Philippine Islands. John also helped secure, repair, and provide fire cover for Sea Bees who were rebuilding landing strips at Sangly Point.

John served at many vessels and stations throughout his time in the Navy. This included NRS Albany, New York, NTS Sampson, New York, AGC Norva, AGC Brooklyn, New York, SS Paulsboro, ABATU Lido Beach Long Island, New York, ACORN 45 Port Hueneme, California, ACORN 45 San Nicolas Island, NAS Navy 961 and PSC Lido Beach Long Island, New York. He was the proud recipient of multiple awards; American Theatre Medal, Victory Medal, Philippine Liberation Ribbon and Asiatic Pacific Medal. John was honorably discharged from the United States Navy on May 7, 1946.

PERSONAL:
On September 26, 1949, John married his wife, Dorothy (Berlingieri) Reitano. Together they have two sons and their daughter-in-laws; John (Frances) and Paul (Peggy), three grandchildren; Kate (Chris), Justin (Nicole) and Nicholas (Ashley) and one great-grandchild; Liam.

WORK EXPERIENCE:
John was a longtime produce manager for Price Chopper and the former Central markets, and for a short time worked for Shop Rite and Wooltex. After retirement, he enjoyed his job as a greeter for Wal-Mart, where he was able to greet customers with his infectious smile and good will.

John always had a love for music and was a bass and drums player. He was the well-known band leader for the Dixieland Ambassadors and Johnny Rei Trio. The Dixieland Ambassadors played in many Capital District parades and many other events.

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES/ORGANIZATIONS:
Along with his music, John enjoyed softball, golf, bowling and painting. He was an active member of Veterans of Lansingburgh, past Commander of VFW Post 6928 in Mechanicville, New York, was a member of the Family Day in the Park committee since its inception and assisted with all the events and fundraising needs, and was a member of the Italian Fraternal Society and the Assumption- St. Paul Church. John took part in the Family Day in the Park in Mechanicville, the Troy Flag Day Parade, and the Veterans of Lansingburgh Memorial Day Parade.

Sadly on March 21, 2005, John passed away.

Honor A Deceased Veteran Ceremony will be held in the Legislative Chambers of the Rensselaer County Legislature.

For questions or application information, please contact the Legislature at 518-270-2880.