John Giaccio Jr. | High school teacher, 73

John Giaccio Jr., 73, of Wallingford, a teacher at South Philadelphia High School for more than 30 years, died of cancer Tuesday at Riddle Memorial Hospital in Media.

Mr. Giaccio graduated from South Philadelphia High and then served in the Army in the states during the Korean War.

After his discharge, he earned a bachelor's degree from Temple University and later received a master's degree in education from Temple.

He taught for several years at John Bartram High School in Southwest Philadelphia before returning to his alma mater, where he taught history and coached the cheerleader squad. He retired in 1990.

He loved horse racing and frequented racetracks and off-track turf clubs. He also enjoyed following current events, his wife Joan Bucci Giacchio said, and would spend two or three hours every day reading newspapers at the public library.

In addition to his wife of 39 years, Mr. Giaccio is survived by stepsons Richard and Michael Griggel; and four grandchildren.

Friends may call from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. tomorrow at Griffith Funeral Chapel, 520 Chester Pike, Norwood. A Funeral Mass will be said at 1 p.m. tomorrow at St. Gabriel Church, 233 Mohawk Ave., Norwood.

Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, Media.