John D. Slowik Sr.

John D. Slowik Sr., 55, of Altoona went home to be with the Lord Friday at his residence with his family by his side after a long and courageous battle against Lou Gehrig's disease. He was born in Altoona, son of the late Daniel J. and Evelyn C. (Bookamire) Slowik. He married Martha J. Arend Aug. 7, 1976, in Altoona. He is survived by his wife, Martha, of 32 years; two daughters: Betty and fiance, Phil, and Theresa Heiss and husband, Randy, all of Altoona; two sons: John Jr. at home and James and wife, Heather, of Altoona; grandchildren: Anthony and Tyler Mesmer, residing in the home, and Jordan and Justice Heiss of Altoona; three sisters: Teresa Doran of Greenwood, Mary Kay Slowik of Altoona and Helen Guyer of Claysburg; three brothers: Ronald P. and wife, Marie, and Steven M. and wife, Carol, all of Altoona and Joseph P. of Marionsville; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a brother, Herbert P.; a sister, Barbara Dolan; nephews: Michael J. Thompson and Robert P.; and stepmother, Hilda J. (Antesberger) Slowik. John was a graduate of Altoona High School. He was an over-the-road truck driver. He was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan and enjoyed bowling, shooting pool, riding his motorcycle, playing a great Santa Claus and spending time with his family. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. Friends will be received from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Monday, Sept. 22, 2008, at Stanley J. Krish Funeral Home Inc., 1204 17th St., Altoona, where a vigil for the deceased will be held Monday evening. A funeral Mass will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008, at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Fifth Avenue and 14th Street, Altoona, by Monsignor Timothy Stein. Committal at SS. Peter and Paul Roman Catholic Cemetery, Altoona. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to charities of their choice. www.krishfuneralhome.com