John Friery Pontzer, 79, a longtime resident of Ridgway, PA, passed away at home on January 28, 2025, in Pittsburgh, PA, following a lengthy illness.

He was born on December 18, 1945, in Providence, RI, the youngest son of Robert Pontzer and Bertha Friery Pontzer.

On August 17, 1974, in Ridgway, PA, he married Sarah Dickinson Pontzer, who survives him. Together they shared more than 50 years of marriage.

John was a graduate of Georgetown Preparatory School and received his undergraduate degree and law degrees from Georgetown University. When he returned to Ridgway, he worked as a lawyer, as part owner of Alpine Pressed Metals, and returned to school later in life to teach English at Cameron County School District.

In his free time, John loved to garden and read, watch action movies, eat as much chocolate as he could, and he always had a special place in his heart for his pet cats.

In addition to his wife of 50 years, Sarah, he is survived by 2 children: Alexa Loveridge (Amy) of Pittsburgh PA, and Jonah Pontzer (Alistair Richardson) of London, UK. He is also survived by siblings Peter Pontzer (Gerri) and Diane Peckham (Nicholas), and numerous beloved nieces and nephews.

John was preceded in death by his father, Robert Pontzer; mother, Bertha Friery Pontzer; sister, Patricia Lanese; and brother, Robert “Jim” Pontzer.

A Mass of Christian Burial for John F. Pontzer will be celebrated on Thursday, February 6, 2025, at 11:00 AM, at St. Leo Magnus Church, 111 Depot Street, Ridgway, PA, 15853, with Fr. Justin Pino officiating.

Burial will follow at St. Leo’s Cemetery.

Family and friends will be received on Thursday at St. Leos Church from 10:00 AM until the time of service.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Elk County Humane Society, 1029 E Eschbach Rd, St. Marys, PA 15857.

Krise Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 130 Center Street, Ridgway, PA 15853 is handling the arrangements and online condolences may be offered to the family at www.krisefuneralhome.com. 

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