John Thomas ‘Johnny’ Piepoli
OBITUARY
John Thomas Johnny Piepoli, a lifelong Scranton resident, died peacefully at home on November 16, 2025. He was 84 years old.
Born and raised in Scranton, Johnny was the son of the late Vito and Theresa (Kneely) Piepoli. He was the youngest of his siblings and lost his father when he was only five years old. His childhood was marked by both hardship and heart. He grew up in a family that took great pride in their South Side neighborhood, and he learned early what it meant to work hard and look out for others. As a boy, he pulled a wagon to the rail yard to gather scrap pieces to sell for half a cent to help his family. He would sneak bananas off the rail cars and later laugh as he told his grandchildren about how he always had to watch out for jumping spiders. These stories offered a glimpse into the resilience, humor, and resourcefulness that shaped the man he grew to become.
Johnny was a proud graduate of Scranton Technical High School, where he met the love of his life, Dolores (Lord) Piepoli. They were high school sweethearts that remained devoted to each other through distance and uncertainty during the Vietnam era. During that time, Johnny served with the United States Army Military Police from 1962 to 1964, stationed in Alaska, where he specialized in training military police dogs. A proud Italian American from the South Side of Scranton who fell in love with a North Scranton girl, Johnny cherished the life he and Dolores created together. They shared 59 years of marriage until her passing in 2023.
Throughout his life, Johnny was known as the kind of man others looked up to. He was humble, loyal, honest, and devoted to his family. His career began with managing construction and operations at the Bellafonte Apartments. He later became the owner of Creative Dimensions, a cabinetmaking company where he used his skill as a carpenter to build with precision, pride, and care. The craftsmanship he poured into his work reflected the integrity that guided every part of his life. Even after retiring from carpentry, he continued consulting with Linde Enterprises, working closely with his dear friend Scott, whose friendship meant a great deal to him. At home, he was a storyteller and a gentle, grounding presence. He made every person feel welcome, and those who knew him felt fortunate to have him in their lives.
Johnny is survived by his two daughters, Nancy Medico and Catherine McElwee, and Catherine’s husband John. His daughters were the heart of his life. In his final years he lived with Nancy, and the love, care, and daily companionship she gave him meant more to him than words could ever say. He adored both of his girls, and the bond they shared was one of the greatest blessings of his life. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Mia Cara Borner and her husband Matthew; Mariano Medico; and John, Joseph, and James McElwee, as well as his great-grandchildren Lawrence and Rhys Borner, who filled his later years with joy.
Johnny was preceded in death by his beloved wife Dolores and by his siblings Daniel Piepoli, Peter Piepoli, Joseph Piepoli, Rose Belinski, Catherine Kitty Piepoli, Vito Chich Piepoli and Nancy Connolly.
The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to Dr. William Hottenstein for his excellent care during this difficult time along with Maribeth and the rest of his staff for their kindness.
A private Memorial Mass for family will be celebrated at The Church of St. Therese.
Johnny lived a life rooted in love, humility, and quiet strength. His legacy endures in the family he cherished, the stories he passed down, and the generations blessed to have been loved by him.
Arrangements are under the care of the Thomas P. Kearney Funeral Homes, Inc., 517 N. Main St., Old Forge. Please visit http://www.kearneyfuneralhomes.com to leave a condolence.
John Thomas ‘Johnny’ Piepoli
November 16, 2025