Sante Anthony ‘Sandy’ Bambocci

He was born on Dec. 6, 1926, in Gallitzin, the son of the late Bonaventura and Mary (DiGiuseppe) Bambocci.

He was the beloved husband of Catherine (Stevens) Bambocci, with whom he shared 67 years of marriage. Their life together was built on loyalty, hard work, faith and family. Sandy was a devoted father to his son, Anthony, and his daughter, Sandra (Terry) Black. He was a proud grandfather to Brinton (Justine), Katelyn, Sante and Giavanna; and a loving great-grandfather to Theron, Henry, and Lilah. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Rosemary Miller, and her husband, Bill.

Sandy was a proud veteran of the United States Army, serving his country during World War II. He carried that same sense of duty, discipline, and quiet strength throughout his life.

Those who knew Sandy knew he was not a man of many words. He did not need to be. He showed his love by showing up, by working hard and by doing what needed to be done without complaint. His family called him “the rock,” and that is exactly what he was. For much of his life, Sandy worked more than one job, including as a butcher, bartender and bread delivery driver. He was often up at 3 a.m., to say a rosary and exercise.

Even after long days and early mornings, Sandy never missed what mattered most. He was a steady presence at his grandchildren’s sporting events, often sitting for hours in the cold just to watch them play. He loved holidays with his family and treasured the time when everyone was together. Sandy lived with remarkable strength and independence. He continued driving until the age of 97 and believed in staying active for as long as possible.

He was a devout Catholic and a member of both St. Demetrius Parish in Gallitzin and Saint Rose of Lima Parish in Altoona. He was also a Fourth Degree Knight with the Knights of Columbus, and a member of the VFW and the American Legion.

Friends will be received Wednesday, May 27, from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. at the Gibbons-Houser Funeral Home Inc., 301 Church Street, Gallitzin, where a vigil service will be held.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated 10 a.m. Thursday, May 28, at St. Demetrius Catholic Church, Gallitzin, the Rev. Fr. Albert Ledoux, celebrant. Committal will take place at The Resurrection Mausoleum, Gallitzin.

Sandy’s life was not measured by what he said, but by what he did every day for the people he loved. His family will miss his steady presence, his quiet strength, and the comfort of knowing he was always there.

Condolences to the family may be left at www.gibbonsfunerals.com.