Mr. John D. "Smoogie" Rondinelli

Mr. John D. “Smoogie” Rondinelli, age 92, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 1, 2015, with the love and support of George and Jena Massoud by his side. Born in Utica on February 23, 1923, John was the son of the late Thomas and Frances (Ferriola) Rondinelli. He was a graduate of Utica Free Academy. A member of the Greatest Generation and a proud veteran of the United States Army Air Force, 319th Fighter Control Squadron, Johnny served his country honorably during World War II stationed in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations. He was responsible for tracking downed U.S. fighters for rescue and proudly recalled guarding Tokyo Rose during her detainment following the War. After the War, John worked as a lineman maintaining and laying tracks for the New York Central Railroad, retiring in 1982 after 36 years of dedicated service. Johnny was well known for nurturing a large vegetable garden, a passion that produced tasty tomatoes and various vegetables that he proudly shared with others. An intense faith and spiritual connection with God guided Johnny’s journey. Hailing from humble beginnings, John was a simple man who lived a simple life. He was a compassionate man; of gentle heart and generous to others. He had an unconditional love for his family, caring for his sisters until their passing. He was a man of honor and integrity with a dry sense of humor. John proudly stated that there were a lot of spokes in his family wheel and often, with a wry smile, stated, “I DON’T CARE WHAT ANYBODY SAYS!” John was a member of the VFW Whitestown Post, and the American Legion. A lifelong NY Yankees fan, he cherished memories of the World Series games he attended at Yankee Stadium with his brothers. John is survived by his niece Dolores Tozzi and her son Frank Tozzi, Ret. Captain/US Army; his great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins; his extended family, Janet Massoud and her children who were his lifeline; and friends and caretakers George J. Massoud, Esq. and his wife Jena, and Joseph A. Massoud, who had the privilege of sharing the last five years with such a beautiful soul. He was predeceased by his brothers and sister-in-law, Frank “Chick” Rondinelli, Dominick and Theresa M. Rondinelli; his sisters and brother-in-law, Victoria “Vicki” and Frank Tozzi, Angeline “Angie” Rondinelli, and Mary A. Rondinelli; and his nephew, Lawrence A. “Larry” Tozzi. The family is grateful to Dr. Daniel C. Goodman for years of compassionate care he provided to Johnny, as well as Nana Antwi and Armin from the Presbyterian Home whose conscientious care comforted him during his final hours. In keeping with John’s wishes, there will be no public visitation. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend John’s funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence Friday afternoon at 12:45 at the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes, 2222 Genesee St., Utica, where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Joseph Salerno with Military Honors conferred. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of the Mass. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be considered to the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes; envelopes will be available at the entrance of the church. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mr. John D. "Smoogie" Rondinelli

February 23, 1923 - August 1, 2015