Giovanni (John) Moreschi

Monday, June 22, 1998

Giovanni (John) Moreschi

Monongahela Mayor since 1976
Giovanni (John) Moreschi, mayor of Monongahela since 1976 who earned the nickname "The Marrying Mayor," died Saturday in Mon Valley Hospital following a brief illness.

But despite Moreschi's officiating at the marriage of more than 300 couples in his 22 years at City Hall, those who knew him said he will be remembered for his role in the revitalization of the city he served.
"All you have to do it take one look at our town, and you can see what he's accomplished," said Carol Foglia, Moreschi's secretary of 20 years. "He was responsible for all of Monongahela's revitalization."
In the years since Moreschi began serving as mayor, Mon-ongahela has witnessed the construction of Monongahela Manor, a senior citizen high rise; the Monongahela Bridge; Noble J. Dick Aquatorium; and the installation of new street lights and wiring on Fifth through Main streets.
Foglia said that during his tenure, Moreschi also oversaw the construction of a gazebo in Chess Park, a perfect setting for summer weddings.
In a 1990 interview, Moreschi said that performing marriages was "one of the most enjoyable aspects of being a mayor."
"He had an open-door policy. He was just a very down-to-earth person. He had a great rapport with the public, and everyone loved him," said Monongahela police Chief Dennis Mendicino.
Before being elected mayor, Moreschi, a Democrat, served as Monongahela city councilman from 1970 to 1976.
"I've known him more than 20 years. People with that level of dedication are hard to replace," said Washington Mayor Anthony L. Spossey.
"He was a friend. He was like a father to me," said Monongahela Councilman Ken Cole.
Moreschi was born in Courtney, Union Township, a son of the late Giovanni "Conti" and Pierina Troncatti Moreschi. His age and date of birth were not disclosed.
A graduate of Monongahela High School and the Pittsburgh Beauty Academy, Moreschi was also an accomplished hairdresser.
He first worked as a hairdresser at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City. He then owned and operated Johnny's Beauty Shop and later owned Giovanni's Restaurant in Monongahela.
From 1942 to 1946, during World War II, he served as a tech staff sergeant in the European Campaign.
He was a member of Monongahela American Legion Post 302, Veterans of Foreign Wars Suttman-Yohe Post 1409, Monongahela Elks Lodge 455, Finleyville Moose Lodge 172, Arroas Haymakers 253 1/2, Monongahela Area Chamber of Commerce, Tri-Community Ambulance Board and Pennsylvania State Mayors Association. He also was a member and past president of Monongahela Rotary Club.
Surviving are a sister, Lucy Vaira of Monongahela; and a nephew, David J. Partazana
Deceased are two brothers, Giacomo "Pope" and Constantine Moreschi.
This obit was written by Heidi Price