John Centanni Sr., 77, had role in big city projects

JOHN R. CENTANNI Sr. didn't like to hear the word "good-bye."

"Never say good-bye," he would admonish family and friends. "Always say, 'See ya later.' "

John was a robust man who loved life and he liked to think that all farewells were temporary; everybody would come back - later.

John Centanni, an operating engineer who worked with McCloskey & Co. on some of the major construction projects in the Philadelphia area for over 60 years, an Army veteran of the Korean War, avid hunter, gardener and traveler, died July 15.

He was 77 and lived in Newtown Square, but had lived in Drexel Hill for 40 years.

He was born in West Philadelphia to the late Nicholas Centanni and the former Connie Finelli. After serving in the Army during the Korean War, he went to work for the McCloskey firm and was a member of Local 542 of the Operating Engineers Union.

Among the projects he worked on were Veterans Stadium, the Spectrum, the Twin Bridges in East Falls and the Center City commuter tunnel.

He retired at age 55, but his working life was far from over. He worked in sales at State Road Building Supply Co. in Upper Darby, and in the security department at Upper Darby High School.

John was proud of his Italian heritage, and made trips to Italy with his family. He also enjoyed cooking for family and friends.

"John always had a smile on his face and was quick to extend a helping hand to anyone who was in need," his family said.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, the former Vera Concordia; a son, John R. Centanni Jr.; his mother; a brother, Ronald Centanni; five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Services: Were Monday. Burial was private. Contributions may be made to Paoli Memorial Hospital, 255 W. Lancaster Ave., Paoli, PA 19301. *