Obituary: John Altieri, 82, Of Norwalk

Information via Magner Funeral Home

John A. Altieri was born in Norwalk July 12, 1939 to father Louis Altieri and mother Margaret Garfield Altieri.

A lifelong resident of Norwalk, he was a product of the Norwalk Public Schools and attended Tracey elementary, the former Center Junior High and Nathan Hale Junior High School. He graduated from Norwalk High School in 1957, which at that time was in the building that now houses the City Hall.

He went on to Boston College where he was awarded a B.S. in history and teaching in 1961. He earned a Master of Arts from Fairfield University in 1965. He taught social studies and later English as a second language at West Rocks Middle School for 38 years.

As a graduate of Norwalk High School and his many years as a Norwalk Public School teacher, he was elected to the Norwalk High School Alumni Association Teacher Honor Roll. When he retired from teaching in 1999, he was recognized by the Connecticut General Assembly and the governor for his dedication to public education.

John was a founding member of the Norwalk Federation of Teachers and served as its president for 21 years. He negotiated many contracts and continued to be involved in negotiations long after his retirement. Before the legislature passed the binding arbitration law, John could often be spotted on the picket line during the first days of the new school year.

John was a founding member of the Norwalk Federation of Teachers and served as its president for 21 years. He negotiated many contracts and continued to be involved in negotiations long after his retirement. Before the legislature passed the binding arbitration law, John could often be spotted on the picket line during the first days of the new school year.

John enjoyed traveling and went on many trips and 8 cruises with his good friend Carol Seirup and her family.

John is survived by his brother Paul Altieri of New Britain, his nephew Rudy Altieri of Stamford, his sister-in-law Rosemarie Altieri of Wilton, and great niece Susan Rydz. He was predeceased by his brother Rudolph Altieri, and his nieces Margaret Rydz and Rosemarie Altieri.

John was very close to his cousin, Jack Calandriello and Jack’s wife Carmella. Their children and grandchildren always called him "Uncle John," including Joanna and Ken Larkin, John and Amy Calandriello, Colton and Chase Larkin, Madison, Daniel and Giana Calandriello. He also had a special place in his heart for Lou, Sarah and Kelley Bachenheimer.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Matthew Church, 216 Scribner Ave., Norwalk on Thursday at 10:30 a.m. John’s family will receive friends at the Magner Funeral Home, 12 Mott Ave., Norwalk on Wednesday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.