John L. Contevita

John L. Contevita, 74, of Tucson, Arizona, passed away Tuesday, January 21, 2020 at the VA Hospital in Tucson. John was born on September 26, 1945 in Havana, Cuba, the son of John and Angela (Ferreri) Conte. He and his family immigrated to the United States in 1959. John was drafted into the Army in 1966 and served one tour in Vietnam. He retired from the military in 1989 as a Command Sergeant Major. He then began working as a civilian at Ft. Huachuca. Carey Luse, his former boss and dear friend, said, ”He had a vital role in establishing and maintaining strategic communications for the entire Army. His efforts undoubtedly saved the lives of countless soldiers requesting combat support, logistics, and supplies during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.” John retired from DOA Civilian Service in 2014. He is survived by Sara, his wife of 33 years, his sister, Christina Conte of Tucson, AZ, his five children, Marc Contevita of Biloxi, MS, AnneMarie Snell of Biloxi, MS, Susanne Brothers (Cobi) of West Linn, OR, Amy Contevita (Alex McCourt) of Baltimore, MD, and Carl Contevita (Alicen) of St. Louis, MO, his eight grandchildren, and his four great-grandchildren. John enjoyed traveling, drawing, pottery, shopping, doing car maintenance and yardwork, watching movies, volunteering at Empire High School in Spanish class, going out to eat, and, most of all, spending time with his family. He was known for his outgoing personality, his sense of humor, and his generosity. He loved his family and friends, most especially his dear wife, Sara. He will be greatly missed. In lieu of flowers, contributions would be appreciated at Mt. Nebo Church c/o Bernice Lurkins 1160 Prairie Rd Greenville IL 62246