Benjamin P. Arellano Sr.

Arellano – Benjamin P., Sr., “Benny”, 86, Johnstown, went to be with the Lord on July 3, 2014 at Memorial Medical Center. Born on April 11, 1928 in Johnstown, son of Jose I. and Asuncion (Martinez) Arellano. Preceded in death by parents; brothers, Jesse, Manuel, Frank, and Arthur; sister, Mary Murillo. He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Ruth A. (Dickerson) Arellano, Johnstown; children, Benjamin P. Jr., married to the former Janice L. Williams, Elizabethtown, PA, Mary A., wife of Michael J. Mayancsik, Greenville, NC, and Rena L., wife of Steve Long, Chesapeake, VA; grandchildren, Jacinda P. and Rhiannon L. Arellano, both of Elizabethtown, PA, Joseph F. and Angela C. Mayancsik, both of Greenville, NC and numerous nieces and nephews, including special nieces, Kathy Bumbernick, Esperanza Bair, and Aurora Gilmour all of Johnstown. Benny was a 1946 graduate of Johnstown High School and later earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Music from I.U.P. and his Masters Degree in Music from Duquesne University. He was a US Marine Veteran serving during both WW II and the Korean War. Benny attended the Navy School of Music and played in Marine Corp. Bands at Camp Lejeune, NC and Quantico, VA. He retired from Greater Johnstown Area Vocational Technical School after 30 years of public school service as an educator and Band Director. Benny was a member of Ss. Gregory and Barnabas Catholic Church, Daisytown, where he served as Choir Director for 30 years; Menoher Post #155 V.F.W. and its Ritual Team, where he served as Bugler; Life Member of the American Legion Post # 0294, Johnstown; Vice President of Local #41, American Federation of Musicians; Board member of CBW Federal Credit Union; Conemaugh-Franklin Lions Club; Knights of Columbus, 4th Degree Knight PGK; IOOF, Alma Lodge; and served in offices in each organization.  Benny was very active in educational organizations with local, state and national levels. As a professional musician for 50 + years, he played with many local groups, including Johnstown Reed Band; Civic Concert Band; Johnstown Symphony; Corkie Cristie; Graham Grubb’s Big Band and the Johnstown Jazz Workshop. He was often called to play back up for professional groups and artists that came to Johnstown, such as Bob Hope, Tiny Tim, and Phyllis Diller. Benny loved music, enjoyed traveling and proudly followed his children and grandchildren in their music, athletic, and academic achievements.  He had a large circle of friends and will be greatly missed by many. Friends will be received from 3-7 p.m. on Monday (July 14) at the Baker-Harris Funeral Chapel, Conemaugh, where Vigil for the deceased will be held. Johnstown Council #467, Knights of Columbus, will recite the Rosary at 7 p.m. and the 4th Degree All Saints Assembly #954 will stand guard on Monday evening.at the funeral home. Funeral Mass will be held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday (July 15) at Ss. Gregory and Barnabas Catholic Church, Daisytown, Fr. Robert Ruston, Pastor. Committal will be at Forest Lawn Memorial Park with military rites conducted by Menoher Post #155 VFW Ritual Team. The family suggests contributions be directed to Ss. Gregory and Barnabas Catholic Church, 120 Boltz Street, Johnstown, PA 15902 in memory of Benjamin. On line condolences may be posted to www.wharrisfuneralhome.com.