Obituary of John Halchak
John “Jack” Halchak Jr., 89, formerly of Woodbourne, NY passed away on Tuesday, June 27, 2017 in Boca Raton, FL, after a long fight with heart disease which affected his total state of health.
Jack was born on August 26, 1927 in Derby, CT to John Halchak and Mary Mudry. Immediately after Jack’s graduation from high school he proudly served our country in the United States Navy. Upon completion of his military service, Jack took advantage of the GI Bill. He continued his education graduating from Arnold College and began a long successful career as a Teacher, Coach and Mentor.
He taught Physical Education, Driver’s Education, and coached baseball, basketball, swimming, golf and any other sport that needed a coach at Fallsburg Central School District over the course of 32 years. Prior to retiring, Jack served as Fallsburg’s Athletic Director and was recognized as a strong supporter of all athletes and coaches in the DUSO League.
Jack was known as a legend in his time. As a 57 year volunteer, Jack served as a Past President and was a life time member of the Hurleyville Fire Department. In addition, Jack was a charter member of the Hurleyville Emergency Relief Squad and was a past president of the Sullivan County ARC. In his spare time he supervised adult physical education and swim programs while he ran the health club at the Raleigh Hotel.
A man of great humor, he was the life of the party. Jack loved sports especially golf, he played in the Tuesday and Wednesday Twilight Leagues at Lochmor Golf Course and built his own putting green in the backyard of his Woodbourne home. Upon retiring to Florida, he worked at Boca West Golf Course and could always be found playing a-round with his many friends. When Jack wasn’t golfing he enjoyed spending time outdoors, especially hunting and participating in various sports. He played third base for the Hurleyville Fire Department softball team for many years, bowled with the fire department, and played softball for the Bend-N-Elbow Old-timers in the Monticello league. Jack was well known at several casinos where he enjoyed winning on the gaming floor and took pleasure in a good meal where the Casino Chefs knew him by name. Other passions included travel, owning and racing horses, and spending time with family and friends. As a Kiwanian, Jack traveled with his wife Aileen, the Lt. Governor, continuing service for children worldwide. Jack lived life to the fullest.
He was known by all as a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, coach and friend. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. Jack leaves behind to cherish his memory, wife of 37 years, Aileen; children: John William and MaryAnn Halchak, Richard Alan and Sherri Halchak, Thomas Edward and Christine Halchak, Michael Steven and Vicky Kwartler, and Kim Stacy Kwartler; grandchildren: Austin, Erica, Dana, Tom, Christopher, Ally, Nick, Jeffery, Christopher, Steven, Krystal and Stephanie; great-grandchildren: Evangeline and Harrison; and brother, Daniel and Judy Halchak. Jack is predeceased by the mother of his children: Alice Marie Navetski; and children: Craig Michael Halchak, Nancy Jean Halchak and Leslie Ann Halchak.
A celebration of Jack’s life will begin at 1 p.m. on Saturday, August 12th at the Hurleyville Fire Department, 166 Main St., Hurleyville, NY 12747. Jack will be honored with a Full Military service, as well as a Firematic service. This will provide an opportunity for anyone and everyone to speak and share a memory or special story of our “Hondo”. Interment will be at the Woodbourne Cemetery, Woodbourne, NY at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in Jack’s memory may be made to the charity of one’s choice.
Arrangements are under the direction of Colonial Memorial Funeral Home. Additional information can be found at www.colonialbryantfuneralhome.com or by calling 845-434-7363.
