John Edward Cupper – Donora, formerly of Monessen

It is with heavy hearts and great sadness that we share the passing of a true community champion. John Edward Cupper, 89, of Donora, formerly of Monessen, died Saturday, May 27, 2023. John’s impact on Donora cannot be overstated. He dedicated countless hours of his time and energy to various organizations (Donora Rotary, Donora Chamber of Commerce, National Slovak Society), always with the aim of addressing the needs of the area and supporting the efforts of others. Whether it was volunteering, organizing or leading initiatives, John was always at the forefront, leading and supporting by example and with a smile. Born on May 18, 1934, John Cupper grew up in his early years in Belle Vernon, then attended Monessen High School and went on to the University of Notre Dame. Upon graduation, he went to the Navy and returned to the Mon Valley to become a business owner. A devoted Christian, he attended many Catholic churches in the area. John loved to travel with family and the Rotary. He enjoyed his family and instilled in them the same values of service and compassion that defined his own life. John was predeceased by his parents, John and Anna Matuga Cupper, and his son, Mark John Cupper. He is survived by his wife, Patricia Pizzica Cupper; daughters, Maripat (Jim) Hensel, Melissa (Darrell) O’Brien and Mollie (Andrew) Tregembo; and a brother, Robert (Barbara) Cupper and their children Jennifer and Nicolas Cupper. His legacy lives on with five grandchildren, Ian Hensel, Sara Hensel, Mark John Cupper, Patricia O’Brien and Matthew Tregembo. A visitation to celebrate John’s life will be held from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, June 1, at FRYE FUNERAL HOME, 427 W. Main St., Monongahela. Prayers will begin at 9:30 a.m. in the funeral home, followed by a Mass of Christian burial to be celebrated at 10 a.m. Friday, June 2, at St. Andrew the Apostle Parish in Monongahela. Interment will follow in Monongahela Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, John requested donations be made to the Donora Chamber of Commerce or the Donora Rotary. Contributions made will carry forward his spirit and continue to make a positive impact in the community. Rest in eternal peace, John. You will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all whose lives you have touched. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the family at www.fryefuneralhome.com.