Obituary for John R. Kurtelawicz Utica – John R. Kurtelawicz, 69, ended his courageous battle with cancer on Friday, December 14, 2018, at Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare. John left us peacefully with dignity surrounded by his loving family. John was born on May 8, 1949, in Utica, the son of John and Katherine Mae (Fowler) Kurtelawicz.
A UFA graduate, John proudly served in the U.S. Marines during the Vietnam War earning three Purple Hearts. John married Susan Kezuka in Hawaii who predeceased him at the age of 33. On September 15, 1987, John wed Cynthia A. Sunderhaft.
With his love of fishing and hunting, riding his Harley, spoiling his grandchildren, and enjoying UC hockey games, John lived his life to the fullest. More often than not he could be found fireside at camp, surrounded by friends and family. John retired from Midstate Correctional Facility in 2009 as a lieutenant.
He was a proud member of the Vietnam Vets of America, VFW 6001, American Legion Post 229, Oneida County 40 & 8, Military Order of the Purple Heart CNY Chapter 490 and a lifetime member of the DAV. Surviving are his beloved wife, Cynthia; mother, Katherine Mae Kurtelawicz; children, John (Donna) Kurtelawicz, Hawaii, Jennifer (Ron) Rudwall, Clinton, Michelle Ryan, Utica, Catherine Manion, Utica; grandchildren, Jhanelle, Brittany, Skye, Suzie, Austin, Conner, Morgan and Emma; brothers, Richard (Kathy) Kurtelawicz, Gary (Renee) Kurtelawicz, Steve (Lisa) Kurtelawicz; sisters, MaryAnne Blake and Suzanne (Steve) O’Toole, Utica; cousins, Bob (Julia) Guminiak, Barb Paciello and Bill (Irene) Kurtelawicz and many nieces and nephews. John was predeceased by his father John, and by many beloved cousins, aunts, and uncles.
Relatives and friends may call Wednesday from 4-6 p.m. at McGrath, Myslinski, Karboski & Nunn Funeral Directors, 470 French Rd. , Utica. Funeral services will commence following visitation at 6 p.m. Private interment will be in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Yorkville.
In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the Military Order of the Purple Heart, Central NY Chapter 490. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. The family extends their gratitude to the nurses and staff of Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare ER and ICU for the care and compassion shown to John.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of John R. Kurtelawicz please visit our Sympathy Store. Upcoming Events Visitation , DEC 19. 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM McGrath, Myslinski, Karboski & Nunn Funeral Directors 470 French Road Utica, NY, US, 13502 www.
nunnandmcgrath.com/ Order Flowers for the Visitation Guaranteed delivery before John’s Visitation begins. Service , DEC 19. 6:00 PM McGrath, Myslinski, Karboski & Nunn Funeral Directors 470 French Road Utica, NY, US, 13502 www.
nunnandmcgrath.com/ Order Flowers for the Service Guaranteed delivery before John’s Service begins.
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