John W. Marona, 86

John W. Marona, 86 of Etowah, died Thursday, September 17, 2015 at the Elizabeth House. A native and lifelong resident of Henderson co., he was a son of the late William and Eva Orr Marona. He attended Etowah High School, NC State University, Brevard College and Western Carolina University. A Chemist, he was employed by Gerber and retired as Section Chief after 30 years with the company.

He was a US Navy Veteran, serving from 1948-1952. He was a member of Etowah United Methodist Church, where he was the only tenor in the church choir, and he loved gardening.

He was preceded in death by a son Wesley Marona, in 1996; and also by three sisters Freda Corn, Barbara Cagle, and Lorraine Gentry.

Surviving is his wife of 59 years, Mary K. Marona; daughter Martha Dugas and husband Christopher of Etowah; a brother Derwood Marona of Etowah; two grandchildren Tony Clayton and his wife Tina and Angela Clayton; five great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 3pm Sunday at Etowah United Methodist Church. Revs. David Cook and Bryce Harris will officiate. Private entombment will take place at Forest Lawn Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 2 until 3:00pm Sunday at the church. Memorials may be made to the Etowah UMC Debt Reduction Fund, 110 Brickyard Road, Etowah, NC 28729.

To offer online condolences, visit www.forestlawnhendersonville.com. Forest Lawn Funeral Home is assisting the family.