John F. Walkuski

ALTAMONT – John Francis Walkuski, 85, died peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday, October 20, 2021 at his home in Altamont, NY.  Although John suffered for years with Alzheimer’s Disease, he knew his family and caregivers to the end. He continued  to smile and had a light in his eyes though he no longer could speak. He knew he was loved and we knew he loved us. We can hear his voice: what more can one ask for in life?

John grew up in Astoria, NY. He served in the Air Force from 1954-1963 and worked for the NYC Fire Department as a dispatcher for nearly 30 years. He then became a Registered Nurse and worked with developmentally disabled kids and adults in Brooklyn and in the Albany, NY area. John chose to continue his service even in death, instructing his family to donate his body as an anatomical gift to Albany Medical College in Albany, NY.

John is survived by his sister Barbara Montana of Sussex, NJ and his brother Michael Walkuski of Jackson Heights, NY.  A brother, Thomas Walkuski, preceded him in death. Two sons also preceded him in death: John Francis and Raymond Jude. We trust he is now reunited in love with them and with their mother, Peggy Christie-Walkuski as well as his parents, John Walter Walkuski and Theresa (Sliwka) Walkuski. Remembering him with heavy hearts are the rest of his surviving children: Donna Walkuski, Ella Laura Johannaber, Martin Walkuski, Nina Walkuski, Lisa Walkuski, Christie Walkuski, Reda Seidenberg and John Seidenberg. He also leaves behind many beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren and extended family.

A memorial mass will take place at 1:00 pm on Saturday, October 23, 2021 at St. Lucy’s/St. Bernadette’s Church, 113 Grand St., Altamont, NY 12009. In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations be made in John’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association of Northeastern New York.  To leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit HansFuneralHome.com.