Peter "Jay" Tallerico, 86, of Niagara Falls, NY passed away Saturday April 23, 2011 at his residence while under the care of his family and Niagara Hospice. He was the son of the late Peter and Theresa (Finelli) Tallerico.

Born in Old Forge, PA he moved to the Niagara Falls area with his family at the age of five. "Jay", as he was known to family and friends, attended local schools and graduated from Trott Vocational High School. During World War II, he served in the United States Army from March 13, 1943 until his honorable discharge on December 18, 1945, achieving the rank of sergeant. He was awarded a Purple Heart for injuries he received while serving his country. He was also awarded the Asiatic Pacific Theater Ribbon with 2 bronze stars and bronze arrow, Philippine Liberation Ribbon with a bronze service star, Good Conduct Medal, and World War II Victory Medal. On December 14, 1951 he married Eileen M. (Wilson) Tallerico in St. Catharine's, Ontario. Jay worked as a crater and packer for the 914th Airlift Wing at the Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station in Niagara Falls, NY for 28 years until his retirement in 1986. Jay was a member of the Disabled American Veterans, and in his leisure enjoyed woodworking and cabinetry.

In addition to his wife of fifty-nine years, he is survived by two children James (Janet) Tallerico of Lewiston, NY and Diane Tallerico of Wheatfield, NY; two grandchildren Mary Jo (Paul) Savinsky and Elizabeth Tallerico; two great-grandchildren Lauren and Parker Savinsky.

There will be no prior visitation. Private funeral services and interment in Memorial Park Cemetery in Lewiston, NY will be held at the convenience of the family. In memory of Mr. Tallerico memorials may be made to Disabled American Veterans P.O. Box 14301
Cincinnati, OH 45250. Arrangements by M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY RD. NIAGARA FALLS, NY.