Guy Prestia

Guy Prestia, 102, of Ellwood City, went to be with his Lord on Wednesday, August 28, 2024. He was a man of action whose service to his family, community, country, and faith radiated throughout his life. 

Born April 26, 1922 in Ellwood City, he was the son of the late Madeline (Violante) and Joseph Prestia. 

He married the late Patricia Prestia, his wife of 54 years, on June 29, 1957. 

Guy was a 1940 graduate of Lincoln High School. He served during WWII as a Sergeant in the 45th Infantry Division, 157th Infantry Regiment, E Company. His unit spent an astounding 511 days in combat throughout Europe and North Africa. He is the recipient of several military awards including a Purple Heart. In 2021, he was formally presented with France's Highest Honor, the Legion d’honneur, for his participation in the liberation of France. 

Following the war, he returned to Ellwood City where he worked as a machinist at the Aetna Standard Engineering Company for 33 years. He was an active member of Park Gate Baptist Church where he volunteered in numerous positions including as a teacher and deacon. He was also a regular attendee of the Veteran’s Breakfast Club, Fruit Cake Gang, Ellwood City Historical Society, and Italian American Club. 

Understanding the importance of history, he began speaking to school children about WWII in 2001. He continued to give talks to schools and at community events throughout the remainder of his life. 

He is survived by his children, Lawrence Montgomery of Lubbock, TX; Edward Prestia of Lancaster, SC; William Prestia of Howard City, MI; Ronald Prestia of Howard City, MI; Elizabeth Prestia of Wampum, PA; Patricia Partington of Ellwood City, PA; Janie Chambers (Jared) of Albuquerque, NM; Guy Prestia (Sandy) of Norway, ME; Donna Straatsma (John) of Morley, MI; 18 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, and 8 great-great grandchildren.

In addition to his wife, he is preceded in death by his son Jay, two daughters-in-law Connie and Linda, both parents, his brothers Rocco and Frank, and his sisters Pearl Audio and Carmel Cunningham. 

Friends will be received Friday, August 30, 2024, from 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. at Marshall Funeral Home, 200 Fountain Avenue, Ellwood City. On Saturday, August 31, 2024, viewing will be held from 10 a.m. until the time of funeral service at 11 a.m. at Park Gate Baptist Church, 2840 River Road, Ellwood City. Full military rites will be observed following the funeral.

Private interment will follow in the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, Bridgeville.

Online condolences may be sent to marshallsfh.com