The important people who came out Saturday at the Carl J. Magnetta Memorial Amphitheater in Tarentum’s Riverview Memorial Park weren’t on the stage.
“The dignitaries are the people of Tarentum,” said Gina Landa of the Tarentum Recreation Board.
At least that’s how Magnetta, a former mayor and councilman, felt, according to Landa.
“He talked to the people who came (to council meetings) — whether they were residents of Tarentum or not — and he made sure each one of us felt like we were important.”
On Saturday, during a memorial service held to mark the unveiling of a plaque in Magnetta’s honor, the stage of the amphitheater was filled with priests, politicians and leaders of Tarentum’s veterans groups, who each shared their sentiments about Magnetta and what he meant to the borough.
“He put his whole heart and soul into Tarentum,” the Rev. Thomas Gillespie said.
Gillespie formerly served as a priest at Holy Martyrs Parish in town and noted Magnetta’s commitment to Tarentum and its people.
“He left a legacy of great witness for how to live a great life,” Gillespie said.
Magnetta died July 1, 2018 at 79. He most recently served as mayor from 2009 through 2014. He started his first term on council in 1964.
For three decades he tried to make the area a better place, Brackenridge Councilman Dino Lopreiato said.
“When I drive through Tarentum, I notice what a nice community it is,” Lopreiato said. “I see his vision.”
Magnetta led by example and taught Lopreiato elected officials have to “give and take” for the greater good.
Lopreiato said Magnetta’s work to improve Tarentum helped to improve the entire Alle-Kiski Valley.
Allegheny Council Councilman Nick Futules of Oakmont said when he first became involved in politics he was told “you have to know Carl Magnetta, because he’s the great catalyst in this Valley.”
Magnetta got the job done, according to Steve Hloznik of VFW Post 5758.
“Carl knew service,” he said.
Magnetta’s widow, Barbara, and their children were emotional at the service.
“It’s beautiful,” she said.
