He was born on December 6, 1933 in Rochester, NY to immigrant parents Leonardo and Josephine (Amato) La Stella. After his father passed away his mother moved the family to Fresno where his mother met and married John Nocito. The family was blessed with two additional boys, John and Joseph Nocito. Jack attended Edison High School in Fresno. He joined the Navy at the age of 18 and served in the Korean War as a welder midshipmen. He won a citation for outstanding performance of duty when a bomber crashed into his battleship, “The Hopewell”. The citation was read at a special captain’s mast ceremony aboard his ship “Hopewell”, stationed in San Diego. As Jack was a humble and private person, his family would have not have known of his heroics had it not been reported by the Fresno Bee. He was honorably discharged in 1960. Following his return home, he met and married his first wife Elizabeth on December 14, 1956. They were happily married for 34 years until her untimely death. As time passed, he met Kaylon, a woman he would have a second chance at love with; they were happily married for 27 years.
Jack enjoyed bowling, exercising and in his early years was known for his craftsmanship, welding skills and his love for BBQing with family and friends. He enjoyed going on short trips to Shaver Lake and the coastal areas. He spent many weekends watching his grandsons playing soccer and baseball. He enjoyed watching football, especially the Fresno State Bulldogs, which he was a Foundation member.
He was preceded in death by his parents Leonardo and Josephine La Stella, wife Elizabeth La Stella and brother Carl La Stella.
He is survived by his wife Kaylon La Stella, daughter Jacqueline La Stella, stepdaughters Michelle (Rick) Lomier, Laura (William) Menyhay, his step grandchildren Joshua (Cari) Lomier, Alyssa Lomier, Michael Jenkins and Adam Menyhay, his step great granddaughters Mckynze, Piper and Lily Lomier. His brothers John and Joseph Nocito. Many nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to the St. Jude Foundation.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.stephensandbean.com for the La Stella family.
