Joseph C. Crute

CRUTE – Joseph C., 99, Johnstown, formerly of Fairless Hills, Pennsylvania; and Lady Lake, Florida; died April 15, 2022. Born January 25, 1923, in South Fork, son of Roy and Edith Blanche (Custer) Crute.

Preceded in death by parents; first wife, Marge (Serenko); second wife, Barbara (Vassle); and longtime companion, Irene Alison; grandchildren, April Ann Emerick and Brian J. Emerick; brother, Edward Crute; sisters, Lyla and Mary Crute, and Virginia Buzzard; and brother-in-law, Thomas Buzzard.

Survived by daughter, Beth Ann Emerick (Greg); brother, Dave Crute (Jo); nephew, Tom Buzzard (Mary); nieces, Emily Buzzard (Larry Smith), Pam Cornell (Michael), and Peggy Glacken (Paul); dear friends, Bill and Sue Lease; and numerous other beloved family and friends. As a member of the greatest generation, Joe fulfilled his patriotic duty and answered his country’s call. A four-year combat veteran of WWII, he served with the US Army, Company D., Fifth Combat Engineer Battalion during the invasion of Normandy, Battle of the Argonne Forest, and Battle of the Bulge. He attained the rank of Sergeant and was awarded the Purple Heart for wounds suffered on the field of battle. Retired engineer after 30 years of service with US Steel, Fairless Works. He was deeply loved and will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Family and friends will be received from 4 p.m. until time of service at 5 p.m. Thursday at Charles O. Dimond Funeral Home, Inc., South Fork.

Private inurnment, South Fork Cemetery.

Military rites by St. Michael American Legion Post 551.