J. Falcone, computer expert

John Joseph Falcone, 65, of Garnet Valley, the retired owner of a software-development company, died of a heart attack Wednesday at his home.

Mr. Falcone grew up in South Philadelphia and graduated from Bishop Neumann High School. He earned a bachelor's degree from St. Joseph's University. He planned to become a pediatric surgeon, his son Marc said, but while in college became interested in computers.

After earning a master's degree in business administration from the University of Delaware, Mr. Falcone went to work for Burroughs Corp. In 1972, he joined the staff of the Computing Center at Delaware.

Two years later, he became its director. He expanded the facility and oversaw the construction of a new Computing Center on the campus in 1977.

In 1980, Mr. Falcone established University Computing Services Corp. (UCSC) in Newark, Del. He later opened a division in Washington.

Mr. Falcone was a consultant to the International Monetary Fund; the Defense Intelligence Agency; Delaware Technical and Community College; and the Delaware Department of Vocational Rehabilitation.

Delaware Today magazine featured Mr. Falcone in an article on "People to Watch in 1986," and that year UCSC made Inc. magazine's list of the 500 fastest-growing businesses in the United States.

Mr. Falcone was close to his uncle, Charles J. Falcone, who owned the Falcon House in Havertown, a restaurant and banquet hall. Mr. Falcone helped his uncle set up a computer system for the restaurant, which often catered a half-dozen weddings in one day.

At 53, Mr. Falcone was able to retire and fulfill his love of the sea. He spent summers with his family in North Wildwood and winters in Highland Beach, Fla., where he served for many years as president of the Harbor Vista Condominium Association.

In addition to his son, Mr. Falcone is survived by his wife of 44 years, Anita Mingrino Falcone; daughter Jeannine Wilk; sons John and Christopher; and eight grandchildren.

Friends may call from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday at Monti-Rago Funeral Home, 2531 S. Broad St., and from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, followed by a Funeral Mass at 10, at St. Edmond's Church, 2130 S. 21st St. Burial will be in SS. Peter and Paul Cemetery, Marple Township.