Gerald P. "Jerry" Gona

Jerry Gona, 84, of Washington, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, November 27, 2023, with his wife of 43 years by his side. He was born on June 30, 1939, son of the late Mildred and Sam DiPippa. Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Mary Ann McKenna Gona, and his children, Gloria (Frank) Mihellis, Michael (Heather) Gona, and Erin (T.J.) Rebish; grandchildren, John and Stephanie Mendrola, Dyan Pruni, and Ryan and Troy Rebish; sister, Margaret Ann (Daniel) Talany. He was a loving uncle to Bryan (Theresa) and Jenny Talany; and great-uncle to Kathryn, Aidan, and Cassidy Talany. Jerry was preceded in death by his first wife, Bonnie Lewis Gona, and his loving daughter, Valerie, who passed away October 23, 2023. He was a graduate of Dormont High School, class of 1957, and studied at the University of Pittsburgh. Jerry was the manager of Family Finance of Braddock before starting a 40-year career with various Chevrolet dealerships, starting with Kenny Ross on the Northside, and ending with Washington Chevrolet in Washington. His fondest memories were with Royal Chevrolet in Washington, where many great friendships were made, especially with owner and friend, David Ziringer. Jerry met his wife Mary Ann at Jerry Nuzum Chevrolet in Wilkinsburg. From salesman for 2 years, to general manager, his life was Chevy! He always said, “We could write a book!” After his retirement in 2006, he became the proud owner of” The 50 Yard Line Sports Pub,” in Washington. In the 16 years at the bar, he met some great people and made some wonderful memories. Steeler games were best at the “50”! Loud and proud, and after a win “We are the Champions” on the jukebox. Halloween parties, Christmas, and New Years parties, and lots of Birthday parties! Lots of laughs, lots of beer, and lots of good times! Travel was Jerry’s middle name. He loved the Caribbean and Cruising with family and friends. He especially loved watching his grandchildren run into the ocean. His favorite place on earth was the Piazza Navona in Rome, eating pizza and drinking house wine at the Ristorante Tucci. Jerry’s next stop was always La Botticella Pub, The Steeler Bar in Rome to see Giovanni Poggi. He always had a great time there eating pasta and watching the Steeler games at 3 a.m. Paris was wonderful, but Rome had his heart. Family and friends will gather Sunday, December 3, 2023, 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm, in William G. Neal Funeral Homes, Ltd., 925 Allison Avenue, Washington, PA 15301, with a Blessing service Monday, December 4, at 12 pm with Father Michael Peck as celebrant. Interment will follow in the Washington Cemetery.