Age 87, of Emlenton, PA; formerly of North Side Pittsburgh, quietly passed away Monday, May 8, 2017 after an extended illness with complications from COPD. He was the son of the late Henry and Catherine (Kearney) Roth Atkinson and step son of the late Harry Atkinson, born June 1, 1929. He was predeceased by one sister, Delores Mae (Roth) Gruener (Robert), and survived by sister Eileen G. (Roth) Labans. He was the devoted companion and husband of Eileen (Means) Roth., who survives. He was also the cherished father of Diane (Roth) Colin (John); Mary Ann (Roth) Derbis(Ron); John H. Roth (Sandy); Anna Marie (Mimi Roth) Snak (Joe); Joseph C. Roth; Theresa (Roth) Davis (Jeff).He idolized his 15 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren he leaves behind. He is survived by a niece and several nephews, and many friends.

John was a graduate of North Catholic High School and was a veteran of the US Army, serving stateside during the Korean Conflict. He worked for many years at Dravo Corporation on Neville Island and retired from the Port Authority of Allegheny County after a long career of dedicated service. Following retirement, he relocated to his favorite spot along the Allegheny River in Emlenton, PA.

During his youth, he was a choir boy, became an adult choir member and usher at Annunciation Parish on the North Side. John also served as a member of the Soup Group at St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Emlenton and attended St. Ursula Parish in Allison Park, PA. John was an ardent animal lover, devoted to his family, church, and his many friends. Family and friends will be received at Neely Funeral Home from 2-8 PM May 10, 2017. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Thursday May 11, 2017 at 11 AM at St. Ursula Parish, 3937 Kirk Avenue, Allison Park, PA. Interment in  Christ Our Redeemer North Side Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to either St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Emlenton, PA or St. Ursula Parish, Allison Park, as well as the National Canine Cancer Foundation at Wearethecure.org

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