John J. Kratochvil Jr.

John Joseph Kratochvil Jr., 93, of West Corners, New York, passed away peacefully, March 20th, leaving behind a lifetime of dedication to family, community, and service.
Born on February 27, 1933, John was a lifelong resident of Broome County. He graduated from Binghamton High School in 1951, where he met the love of his life, Elizabeth “Betty” Konecny. The two were married in 1952 and shared 66 wonderful years together until Betty’s passing on June 16, 2020. Together, they built a life rooted in love, raising their two children, Cheryl and Michael, and creating countless cherished memories.
John was predeceased by his beloved wife, Betty; his daughter, Cheryl Kratochvil; his father, John Kratochvil; his mother, Hedy Polacek; and his sisters, Hedy and Marie. Though he endured great loss, his strength and devotion to his family never wavered.
He is survived by his son, Michael (Deb), his grandchildren, Nicolette (Matt), Zachary, Michenzy, and his great-grandson Elias, along with extended family members and dear friends.
In 1960, John and Betty purchased their home in West Corners, where he remained for the rest of his life. He was deeply committed to his community, serving with distinction in the West Corners Fire Company. Over the years, he held several roles including Lieutenant, Assistant Fire Chief, and ultimately Fire Marshal—becoming the first Fire Marshal of West Corners. He was a proud life member, and in recognition of his years of dedicated volunteer service, a fire engine was honorably dedicated in his name.
John began his career with New York State Electric & Gas, working as a meter reader and lineman before joining IBM Endicott in 1957. He remained with IBM until his retirement in 1992, finishing his career as Assistant Fire Marshal of the Glendale site.
He lived an active and fulfilling life, enjoying camping with his family and later serving as a director of NCHA for New York State. John loved coaching his son’s Little League baseball team and spent many hours playing horseshoes and golf. A talented swimmer in his youth, he competed on the Binghamton High School varsity swim team and later passed that skill on to his children.
John found great joy in simple pleasures—playing dominos, reading the local newspaper, watching the local news, and following his favorite teams, including the New York Rangers, New York Mets, and Buffalo Bills. He also enjoyed attending Binghamton University baseball and basketball games whenever he could.
Above all, John will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family and his lifelong commitment to serving others. He took great pride in his children and grandchildren and treasured every moment spent with them.
John’s life was one of service, devotion, and enduring love. He is now reunited with his beloved wife Betty and daughter Cheryl, together again in peace.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 am, Friday, March 27 at St. Joseph’s Church, 207 Hayes Avenue, Endicott. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, Johnson City. The family will receive friends at church, Friday, March 27, from 10 am until Mass time at 11 am.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Alzheimer’s Association, www.alz.org, in John’s memory.