Obituary of John A. Distante

    Mr. John A. Distante, age 89, of Clinton, passed away on Wednesday, January 1, 2025.

    John was born on November 28, 1935, in Utica. John was the son of the late Frank and Antonia (Gentile) Distante. Raised and educated in local schools, he attended Utica College and Syracuse University. On September 6, 1958, he married Violet Gentile with whom he shared over 66 years in a devoted union.

John was a teacher in the Utica City School District, where he taught Chemistry and Earth Science for over 30 years. In his tenure he served as department head and was an integral part of the merger of Utica Free Academy and Proctor High School. During the summers, John enjoyed caring for his home and growing vegetables in his garden. In retirement John and Violet spent winters in Fort Myers Beach, Florida, where they made many friends over the years.

John is survived by his wife Violet Distante; his daughter, Anita Picente; his grandchildren, Andrea Picente and Brian (Sara) Picente; his great grandson, Milo Picente; as well as several nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his brother, Joseph Distante and son-in-law, David Picente.

In keeping with John’s wishes, there will be no calling hours. Entombment will take place in Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum at the convenience of the family.

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