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John "Jake" Casale Sr., 98, of Cresson, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 7, 2023, at home, surrounded by family. He was born in Portage, son of Carmelo and Giuseppina "Josephine" (Moschella) Casale. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 48 years, Emma (Pingtella) Casale; his grandson, Francis Paul Casale; brothers: Dr. Lawrence (Nellie), Sam (Shirley) and Paul; and stepgranddaughter, Rachel Sheehan.
Jake is survived by his brother, Jim of Cresson; sons, John and Terri (Eckenrode) of Loretto and Carmen and Sharon (Wright) of Cresson; daughter, Jacquelyn and Skip Moerschbacher of State College; seven grandchildren: Josh and Jaime (Pritts), Johnna and Colin Casale and Miranda Sheehan (Dan McConnell), all of Cresson, Kara Casale (Randy Harris) of Hollidaysburg, Evan Moerschbacher of Grand Rapids, Mich., and Drew Moerschbacher of State College; six great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; cousins; and two beloved pets, Kitty and Champ.
Jake was a proud WWII veteran, assigned in 1943 to the 1346th Army Air Force Base Unit at Texagon Air Field, India, as an aircraft engine mechanic. While there, he achieved the rank of Corporal and received numerous medals. Once discharged in 1948, Jake continued to serve his country in the reserves. In 1952, Jake started a 45-year career as an auto repair co-owner in Cresson until the business passed on to his son. In retirement, Jake continued visits to the garage as late as a few days prior to his passing. His wit and wisdom with customers and staff will be missed. Jake had a lifelong love for fishing, which started as a young boy at his favorite spot, the Wilmore Dam. He enjoyed the family tradition of seasonal hunting at the family's former Christmas tree farm in Portage Township. He was an all-around gardener, particularly tending to his tomatoes; a fan of Pittsburgh sports teams and Penn State football; but, more than anything, Jake especially cherished time with his children and grandchildren and seldom missed the opportunity to attend their activities.
A private service was held on Tuesday, April 11, 2023, with Father Byrnes presiding, at the Serenko-Claar Funeral Home, PC, Portage. Burial was in St. Bartholomew Cemetery, Wilmore, where military honors were held by Portage Ritual Team. To friends of Jake, his life can be celebrated with a toast of an Italian red wine for a life well lived. The family would like to thank Interim Hospice and the VA Gold Team staff for their compassionate care. Online condolences may be made at serenkoclaarfuneralhome.com.