John A. Bonfatto, 94, of Bellefonte, passed away on Thursday, March 14, 2024, at Wynwood House Personal Care Home in State College. Born on January 15, 1930, in Bellefonte, he was the son of the late Guy and Palma (Corica) Bonfatto.

John was a 1948 graduate of Bellefonte High School. After high school, he proudly served his country in the United States Air Force during the Korean War. He served from November 1950 until he was honorably discharged in November 1954. Upon returning home, he attended Lycoming College in Williamsport, graduating in 1956 with his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration.

He began working as the Accounting Manager for Centre Community Hospital before becoming a co-owner of Bonfatto’s in 1958. Countless members of the community would come into Bonfatto’s throughout the years to pick up a Bonanza Sub. The Bonanza Sub Sandwich was John’s creation and permanent fixture on the menu. Alongside offering the sub, he coined the catchphrase, “Better Stuffins…Better Subs!” which stuck around for years to come!

He is survived by his sisters, Annette T. Callahan of Boalsburg, and Rose M. Letterman (Elmer) of Lemont, and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a brother, Francis Bonfatto, and two sisters, Josephine Moore and Mary Bonfatto.

John was a life member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Bellefonte. He spent his entire life serving God in various ways; he would often visit residents who were sick in nursing homes, hospitals, and at home to pray over them. He will be remembered for his kind and gentle heart, helping anyone who was in need.

Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, at 10:00 AM, at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 134 E. Bishop Street, Bellefonte, with Father Brian Saylor and Deacon Thomas Boldin officiating. Burial service with full military honors will immediately follow at St. John’s Catholic Cemetery in Bellefonte. Arrangements are under the direction of Wetzler Funeral Service, Inc. in Bellefonte.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of John to St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 134 E. Bishop Street, Bellefonte, PA 16823.