Stepulla

John Joseph “Buckeye” Stepulla died on Jan. 3, 2023, at his home, surrounded by his family.

He was born on Feb. 4, 1933, in Seminole, Pa., and was the son of the late John W. and Virginia (Chiavacci) Stepulla.

He was married to Mary Ann (Adams) Stepulla, who preceded him in death on Dec. 13, 1985. He later married Rosalee (Michel) Stepulla of Butler in December 1991, who survives. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Delores Sarakon.

Buckeye worked as a welder at Pullman Standard in Butler for many years, then later worked at Clarion University as a maintenance worker and driver for the president of the college.

Buckeye is survived by three children, Cindy (Mike) Carrier of Seminole, Pa., and Jeff (Terri) Stepulla of Seminole, Pa., and Wendy (Greg) Buzzard of New Bethlehem; his grandchildren, Alicia Stepulla and friend, Winston, Ashley (Desiree) Stepulla, Travis Stepulla and friend, Alyssa, Nathan Carrier, David Carrier and fiancée, Nicole, and Daniel (Brittany) Buzzard; one great-grandson, Landon Stepulla; and two step-granddaughters, Journee and Savannah.

He is also survived by a niece, Lynette Thompson.

He was also loved by many stepchildren, Robert Michel, Renee Allen, Randy Michel and Rhonda Rodgers-Ace; and many step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren.

Buckeye was proud to be from Seminole, Pa., and loved all of Cindy, Jeff and Wendy’s childhood friends, and a special friend, Sebby Spanedda.

Buckeye loved hunting, fishing, making wine, and loved making cookies for friends and family.

He played quarterback for Redbank Valley Football team and played second base for the Seminole baseball team.

STEPULLA — Friends and family of John Joseph “Buckeye” Stepulla, who died Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2023, will be received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 5, 2023, at ALCORN FUNERAL HOME, 4065 Brookville St., Hawthorn, Pa.

A prayer vigil service will be held prior to visitation at 1:30 p.m.

Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Friday at St. Charles Catholic Church, 201 Washington St., New Bethlehem. Father Samuel Bungo, parish priest will serve as celebrant.

Interment will follow in the St. Charles Catholic Cemetery in New Bethlehem.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.alcornfuneralhome.com.

Please sign the guest book at www.butlereagle.com.