05/07/2026
John A. Vento
A World War II veteran, lifelong labor leader, and steadfast advocate for working families across Western Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully Wednesday, May 6, 2026. He was 102 years old.
As a young man, John answered his country’s call during World War II, serving honorably in the United States Army. His service reflected the deep sense of duty, patriotism, and resilience that defined both his generation and the life he lived thereafter.
Following his return home, John built a life rooted in hard work, integrity, and service to others. He dedicated his career to “fighting for the working man” becoming a respected labor leader whose influence helped shape the labor movement throughout Western Pennsylvania for generations to come. Known for his strong work ethic, steady leadership, and quiet determination, he earned the admiration and respect of colleagues, friends, and all who worked alongside him.
John was also deeply devoted to his community. A familiar and beloved presence in Penn Hills, he faithfully served his church, treasured attending World War II Army reunions, and was always ready for a good party, where he could share a story from years past, or a helping hand. He believed strongly in looking out for others and took great pride in being someone his family and friends could always rely upon.
Family was the center of John’s world. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose greatest joy came from time spent with those he loved. His wisdom, humor, strength, and unwavering presence will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.
John was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Dorothy; his son, John Robert Vento; and several siblings, Ralph, Joseph, Albert, Francis, Andy, Janet and Joanna.
He is survived by his loving daughters, Maribeth Kojkowski and Johnetta Artinger and her husband, Dave. He was cherished by his grandchildren, Matthew Schaal and his wife, Katie, Nicole Coman and her husband, Drew, Kristen Pefferman and her husband, Richey, Nicholas Kojkowski, and his wife Mallory, and Jared Vento and his wife, Corryn. Of most importance were his great grandchildren; William, Victoria, Carson, Walker, Olivia, Luca, and the newest great grandchild, Jacob Andrew Vento, born on the day of his passing.
John’s legacy of strength, kindness, loyalty, and integrity lives on through the family he loved so deeply, a family immensely proud of the man they knew as their patriarch.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to Allegheny County Labor Council, Special Activities, 1459 Woodruff St., Pittsburgh, PA 15220 to support local veterans’ activities.
Friends and family received at William F. Gross Funeral Home, Ltd. 11735 Frankstown Rd. (at Rodi Rd.), Penn Hills Tuesday, May 12, 2026 from 2-8 p.m. Funeral Prayers will be held at the funeral home on Wednesday, May 13, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at Christ the Divine Shepherd Parish, St. Susanna Church, 200 Stotler Rd., Pittsburgh, PA 15235 at 11 a.m.
