Butte lost its beloved "Pork Chop John" Monday, February 22, 2016. John A. Orizotti was born on September 25th, 1933 in Meaderville. He was the only child of Blanche (Lombardi) and John Orizotti. Johnny was proud of the years he lived in Meaderville, the Italian community that provided the foundation for his love of family and strong work ethic.
John attended Holy Savior Catholic School and graduated from Butte High School in 1951. While attending high school, John worked nights at the Ossello Gas Station for his mentor and friend Guy Ossello, Sr. He was also employed by Dan Piazzola at the Better Meat Market where he met the love of this life, Mary Carol Piazzola, the boss' daughter! They were married June 14, 1954, Flag Day, at St. Johns Evangelist Church. They shared and enjoyed their lives together for the past 62 years.
In 1969 John bought and organized Johns Sandwich Shop, Inc. and began his dream as "Pork Chop John". As with all his endeavors, he put his whole heart into his business, working days and many nights on building his dream. Pork Chop Johns expanded and flourished over the years while he was actively involved in the business.
John retired in 1984. He endured three open heart surgeries, the first being in 1976, at the age of 42. He had the proverbial nine lives. John rose above physical ailments and lived a full and productive life.
John's Catholic faith was a focal point in his life. He was an active member of St. Ann's Parish serving as a Eucharistic minister, on the parish finance committee, and participating in the music ministry as a member of the New Wine Singers.
He served the Butte community and contributed his time and talent as an active supporter of education, athletics and the arts. He supported local and state schools, both public and private; Butte Central, Butte High, Montana Tech, University of Montana and Montana State. Additionally, he served on many boards and organizations; The Salvation Army, The Butte Elks Club, The Mother Lode Theatre, and the Diocese of Helena to name a few.
The Orizotti family has been overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity of the Butte community. John has been described as one of the "Legends" of Butte and a "Butte Icon". He was a humble man, who always had a smile on his face, a kind word for everyone, and was proud to be from Butte.
John and Mary Carol have seven children, nineteen grandchildren, and nine great grandchildren. John was a guiding force of both his family and business.
John was reunited with his grandson Adam who preceded him on the same date twenty-four years ago. He was also preceded in death by his parents John Orizotti, Blanche and Louie Massie, his father in-law and mother-in-law, Dan and Nellie (Minor) Piazzola, step sister Emma Perotto and son-in-law Denis Colomb.
He is survived by his wife Mary Carol, children and spouses, grandchildren and great grandchildren: Rick and Mary (Burke) Orizotti (Mike, Dan, Stephanie, Rachael), Ed and Patty (Smith) Orizotti (Kelsey, Tyler, Katie, Kylie), Tom Orizotti (Courtney, Amber, Kurri), Tony and Lisa (Burke) Orizotti (Steven, Callie, Gina) Tressa (Orizotti) Colomb, Johnna (Orizotti) and Mike Kerr (Ryland, Kennedy), Tara (Orizotti) and Brad Leonard (Andrew, Geno) and extended family and friends.
Friends may call after 5:00PM Thursday in St. Ann's Church for visitations. Parish Vigil will be celebrated at 7:00PM. Funeral Mass will be celebrated Friday at 10:00AM in St. Ann's Church. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials to Butte Central Catholic Education Foundation or a charity of your choice.