James R. “Popeye” Chemento

James R. “Popeye” Chemento, age 97 of Canonsburg, passed away peacefully Saturday February 22, 2025, in Strabane Trails, Washington. He was born on December 2, 1927, in Canonsburg, a son of the late Vincenzo and Margaurete Panza Chemento. Mr. Chemento lived his life in Canonsburg, was a graduate of Canonsburg High School class of 1947 and attended Waynesburg College on a sports scholarship. He was a member of St. Oscar Romero Parish Patrick Roman Catholic Church. He proudly served his country during the Korean War with the United States Army, being honorably discharged as a Master Sergeant. Prior to his retirement he had been employed for 39 years at the Former McGraw Edison Power Systems as a quality control inspector. Jim was employed as a teller at the Meadows Racetrack from 1967 until 1990 and served with the Pennsylvania National Guard from December 1946 until his regiment returned to Canonsburg, where he retired as Commander in 1964. Popeye loved all sports and was an avid fan of all Pittsburgh teams. He was a wrestler and football player in high school and had been a referee in both sports until his retirement in April 1987. He was inducted into the Washington County Sports Hall of Fame for his wrestling accomplishments. Popeye was a member of the VFW Post 191, the American Legion Post 253, the FOP Lodge 22, the Italian American Heritage Society and the American Legion Post 902. On December 15, 1982, he married Martha L. Banner Porco who passed away August 24, 1997. Left behind to cherish his memory are his daughters, Margaret A. (Don) Gunther of Wellsville, Ohio and his stepdaughter Lisa R. Gatto of Washington, his three stepsons, Robert W. Porco, Richard W. (Leona) Porco and David A. (Linda) Porco, all of Florida, his beloved grandsons, Justin Gunther, Tyler (Aly) Porco, Anthony and Sage Gatto, his great granddaughter Reese Gunther and several nieces and nephews. Mr. Chemento was the last of his immediate family. Deceased in addition to his wife and parents are two sisters Rose Salamon and Connie Powell, his two brothers, John “Bobo” and Chester “Futta’ Chemento and his pets Cleo and Smokey. In closing Mr. Chemento would say “May God bless all of you and thanks for the memories”

Friends and family are welcome from 2-4 and 6-8 pm Wednesday, February 26, 2025, in SALANDRA FUNERAL and CREMATION SERVICES, INC. Joseph P. Salandra LFD owner/supervisor 304 West Pike Street Canonsburg (724) 745-8120 where Catholic Blessing services will take place at 10 am Thursday February 27, 2025. Interment, with full military honors by the VFW Post 191 of Canonsburg and the United States Army, will follow in Queen of Heaven Cemetery, Peters Twp. In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to the Washington Area Humane Society and the American Diabetes Association. To view or extend your condolences please visit www.salandrafunerals.com.