John Trombetta

John J. Trombetta, Sr., age 75, of Erie, passed away Sunday, October 4, 2026. John was born in Palo Alto, CA on October 20, 1950, and the son of the late Frank and Louise Trombetta.

John graduated from Phoenixville High School and Penn State University. After college, John moved to Erie and worked as an adult probation officer (1972 to 1979) and then became Chief County Detective for Erie County (1982 to 1987). From 1989 to 2018, John served as President and CEO of The Foundation for Free Enterprise Education, a state-wide non-profit educational institution dedicated to teaching young adults about private enterprise. For 29 years, John brought enthusiasm, passion, and unmistakable energy for life to tens of thousands of young people and colleagues.

After retiring, John became active on the board of directors for various organizations within the community. He was an active member of Our Lady of Mercy R.C. church and the local Knights of Columbus. In his free time, John, always an avid outdoorsman, spent as much time as he could boating on Lake Erie, fishing, hunting, biking, and riding his motorcycle. He was a committed fan to all Cleveland sports teams, regardless of their records. Later in life, his favorite role was to be “papa” to his five grandchildren.

John is survived by three sons, Joseph Trombetta (Kara), Michael Trombetta (Amanda) and John Trombetta Jr. (Shawnna); three sisters, Mary Ellen Wahlheim (Tom), Anne Hynek (Dave) and Joan Schimmels (Joe); five grandchildren, Anthony, Max, Jensen, Alaylah and Alora; and many nieces and nephews. John will be remembered for a life well lived and a generous heart. He treasured his friends and family and the time he spent with them. John will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Friends may call Dusckas Funeral and Cremation Services Harborcreek, 5151 Buffalo Road (at Hannon Rd.) on Friday, October 9th, from 3 to 7pm with the Knights of Columbus holding a Rosary Service at 2:45pm. A Funeral Mass will be held at Our Lady of Mercy R.C. Church, 837 Bartlett Road, on Saturday, October 10th, at 11am. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to The Foundation for Free Enterprise Education or a charity of your choice.
Condolences may be sent to www.dusckasfuneralhome.com