Jack

Those unable to attend Jack's service may watch the live stream ~ Click Here

John Vincent Kunte, fondly known as Jack, passed away on December 20, 2023, at the age of 92 in Athens, Pennsylvania. Born on Independence Day in 1931, in Endicott, New York, John's life was a testament to the values of hard work, devotion, and joy in the simple pleasures of life.

Jack is survived by his beloved wife of 73 years, Jeanne (Walsh) Kunte whom he married on July 29, 1950. Together, they built a family that includes their children: David John and his wife Karen Kunte, Deborah Lee Johnson, and Cheryl and her husband Jerry Elston. He will also be missed by his brother Chuck Kunte.   His legacy continued to grow through his cherished grandchildren: Neil (Lynette) Deming, Stephen (Valerie) Deming, Andrew (Amy) Deming, Craig Elson (Heather Elwell), Patrick Elston (Renae), Carey Howey (Lou Quatrini), Sarah (Kevin) Ryck, Jennifer (Ben) Parker, Chris Kunte, and Alyssa (John) Engelbert. The joy of his life was further multiplied by his great-grandchildren: Lucas, Lydia, Elizabeth Kunte; Sadie, Owen, Charlie Parker; Callie, Alaina, Jack, and the expected baby boy in June Engelbert; Collen, Kara, Olivia, Aubrie, Abby Deming; Dustin, Collin, Bailey, Brynn Elston; Madison, Reese Howey; Dominic, and Jerry Ryck; and great-great-granddaughter Blake Klossner. Along with many nieces, nephews and their families who will cherish his memory.  He was predeceased by his parents, Vincent and Mary Kunte, and his sister, Anne Wasneechak.

A proud graduate of Vestal High School class of 1949, Jack's intellect and precision led him to a successful career as a mechanical engineer at IBM, from which he retired as a respected member of the Quarter Century Club. His professional achievements were matched by his active involvement in the community as a member of the Nichols United Methodist Church.

Jack's talents were many and varied. He was an accomplished woodworker, creating pieces that were not only functional but also full of character and warmth. His love for nature was evident in the care he put into his vegetable and flower gardens, which were a source of great pride and joy.

An adventurous soul, Jack was also a pilot and an avid member of the Valley RC Club. His passion for aviation extended to making model airplanes, a hobby that showcased his meticulousness and patience. Jack loved to travel, and his journeys took him to places like Montana, Maine, and Lancaster, Pennsylvania, where he made memories that lasted a lifetime.

Those who knew Jack would say he lived by the words of Helen Keller: "The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched - they must be felt with the heart." This quote resonates with the life Jack led, for he touched the hearts of all who knew him through his actions and the love he shared.

Jack's life was a testament to the values he held dear. His loving nature made his home a haven of warmth, his kindness a comfort to friends and strangers alike, and his handiness a blessing to those around him. He will be remembered not only for the things he made with his hands but, more importantly, for the compassion and generosity he so freely gave.

As we bid farewell to Jack, we celebrate a life well-lived, a journey well-traveled, and a legacy that will continue to thrive in the hearts of his family and the many lives he touched. His story is one of love, dedication, and the quiet strength that lies in a life of purpose and joy. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

We will gather on Thursday, December 28th at 2pm at the Sutfin Funeral Chapel, 273 S. Main St., Nichols to celebrate and remember Jack’s life.

Those unable to attend the service may watch his live stream at:

https://my.gather.app/remember/john-jack-kunte

Jack will be laid to rest at the convenience of the family on Friday in the Nichols Cemetery. Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting his guestbook at www.sutfinfuneralchapel.com In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be directed to Stray Haven, 194 Shepard Rd., Waverly, NY 14892 or a charity of one’s choice in loving memory of John “Jack” Kunte.