NORWICH – John J. Taranto, 89, formerly of East Main Street, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2009 in Macungie, Pa.
Born Oct. 9, 1919 in Norwich, John was the son of Joseph and Bartola (Zieno) Taranto. After attending the Norwich Schools, John completed an apprenticeship at lineman school in Oneonta. He served with the 26th Signal Battalion during World War II, fighting in the battles of Ardennes, Central Europe, Normandy and the Rhineland. John was awarded the Purple Heart for injuries sustained in battle. Upon his honorable discharge from active service, John worked for NYSEG for almost 40 years, retiring in 1983 as Chief Lineman.
He was a member of St. Bartholomew’s Church and the former Holy Name Society. John was also a member of the Elks Lodge. During his leisure hours, he enjoyed playing golf, bowling and spending time with his family and his many friends.
On Aug. 10, 1946, in St. Bartholomew’s Church, John married Mary Natoli, who survives. He is also survived by his three daughters, their spouses and children, daughter Margaret Kosowsky of Summerville, S.C. and children, Debra LaBelle, Mary Jane Vautrin and Kevin Kosowsky; daughter,  Rosanne and Steven Teders and their children, Jesssica and Rachel, of Wescosville, Pa. and daughter,  Mary Kay and Scott Derby and their children, Claire and Samantha of Clifton Park; four great grandchildren and a niece and a nephew. John was predeceased by his sister, Grace Smith.
A Mass of Resurrection for John will be held at 10 a.m. Monday at St. Bartholomew’s Church. Burial will take place in St. Paul’s Cemetery.  Friends are invited to call at the Wilson Funeral Home on Sunday from 4-6 p.m. The rosary will be recited at 3:30 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested memorial contributions be made to the American Heart Association.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting the Wilson Funeral Home website at:  http://wilsonfh.com.