Geneseo:  At age 83, John passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, February 6, 2025, after a brief and courageous battle with cancer. He was born on September 14, 1941, to the late Alexander and Lucy (Mitkiewicz) Altavena. JR is predeceased by his brother, Alexander Altavena Jr, and stepdaughter, Theresa Pfuntner-Donlon. Survived by his wife, Patricia Ann (Tschiderer) Altavena, stepdaughters, Kim (Mike) Starr and Jeanine (Rudyard) Alcocer, stepson, Douglas J. Pfuntner. Brother-in-laws and sister-in-laws, Paul (Linda) Tschiderer, Thomas (Sharon) Tschiderer, Richard Tschiderer, Daniel (Cathy) Tschiderer, and Margaret (Mark) Schuster. Step grandchildren,  Ali (Benjie) Colberg, Rachel Starr, Daniel Starr, Carmen Alcocer, and Joel Alcocer. Many nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews, Cousin Mike (Cindy) Maiorino, as well as his former service friends at “Fat Tuesdays” in Fairfax, VA.

John Richard “JR” Altavena honorably served our Nation for almost 4 years on active duty in the US Navy from 1965 – 1969, including a total of 3 years of foreign & sea service. His Naval Rating was PH (Photographer), and he attained the rank of Petty Officer 2nd Class (E-5.)

John was a Vietnam War veteran, assigned to Anti-Submarine Warfare Squadron VS-29, Helicopter Squadron-2 (HS-2), Helicopter Combat Support Squadron-1 (HC-1) stationed aboard the USS Kearsarge (CVS-33.) He served as a Helicopter Combat & Rescue crew member and as a Photographer.

John received his Honorable Discharge from active duty on 1 October 1969, and he earned the following awards: National Defense Service Medal; Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Korea); Vietnam Service Medal w/3 Service Stars (4 Awards); and the Vietnam Campaign Medal.

John went on to become a very active member and leader in the American Legion, including as Past Commander of Post #468 in Greece, NY. He was also a Past Vice Commander and Past Commander of the Monroe County American Legion, and served as a Convention Delegate and as a member on numerous State & National Committees.

After JR proudly served his country,  he worked at Kodak, in Rochester NY, as a photographer, capturing many important events and historic landmarks. After his retirement from Kodak, he went on to develop a career in property management. JR was a property manager for Gosnell Properties, in Vienna VA for 13 years where he also established lasting friendships and made fond memories.

JR shared 28 years with his beloved wife, Patti. Together they shared their love of traveling, fishing, and time with family. JR was very proud of his stepchildren and step-grandchildren. He enjoyed making cherished memories at family gatherings and holiday get-togethers.

JR was also known for his passion and dedication for the Buffalo Bills. Throughout his life he was an avid fan who never faltered through the ups and downs of his favorite team; always cheering and sporting Buffalo Bills apparel, rarely missing a game.

There is no formal calling. A graveside service will be held on April 5th at 12:00 PM, at St. Michael’s Cemetery, Shelly Rd., Livonia, NY where JR will receive full military honors. Reception details will be determined at a later date. Memorial contributions can be made in JR’s memory to: Homeless and Disabled Veterans 125 Westfall Road, Rochester, New York 14620. To share a memory or a condolence, please visit:  www.doughertyfuneralhomes.com