JOHN J. POTENZIANI, AFCM, USN (Ret)

John Joseph Potenziani age 76, was called home to the Lord on November 6, 2013, following a short illness. He was born November 10, 1936 in St. Johnsville, NY to Alessandro and Yolanda Potenziani.

Following graduation from high school, John enlisted in the U.S. Navy in October of 1954. He completed basic training at Bainbridge, MD and then was assigned to VR-6 at McGuire AFB, a Military Air Transport Service unit for the next two years. From there, John went to “B” school in Memphis and then on to NAS Oceana. He was stationed at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba for two years during the Cuban Missile Crisis.

In March of 1964, John arrived at NAS Whidbey Island and was assigned to Heavy 2 and the A-3, where he became an A-6 Instructor-Trainer. His next assignment was five years with VA-196 as the Maintenance Chief. On May 24, 1974 he was married to the former Annette David.

John’s next duty was Maintenance Chief with COMMATVAQWINGPAC and then VA-196. John retired from the Navy on August 31, 1979 with 25 years of service. He then began a second career, working for Grumman Aircraft as a Tech Rep, a position he held for the next 18 years.

John was a very active member of St. Mary Catholic Church of Coupeville, serving as Sacristan for many years, a role he very much loved. John loved to read, go camping, wood-working and spending time with family.

John is survived by his wife Annette of Coupeville, by six children and their spouses: John Potenziani, Jr. (Kathleen) of Colorado Springs, CO, Michael Potenziani of Sacramento, CA, Kevin Potenziani (Diane) of Kansas City, MO, Alessandro Potenziani of Coupeville, Jenene Szuch of Mukilteo and Charlene Hauge (Joseph) of Warren, OR. Seven grandchildren also survive. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral Mass for John Potenziani will celebrated at St. Mary Catholic Church, Coupeville, WA on Monday, November 11, 2013 at 11:00 am with Rev. Paul Pluth, J.C.L. Celebrant. Rites of Interment with full military honors, will follow on Wednesday, November 13 at 11:15 am at Tahoma National Cemetery, Kent, WA.

Friends and family are encouraged to share memories and condolences in the Book of Memories hosted by Wallin Funeral Home at www.wallinfuneralhome.com.

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