Obituary of John A Czuhanich

John Czuhanich, a valiant World War II Marine veteran peacefully passed away on February 16, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering patriotism and resilience. John, a native of Endicott, NY enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1943 and attended Marine Corps Basic Training at Parris Island, SC. He went on to fight overseas as an Infantryman in the 2nd Marine Division. After arriving in the Pacific, he was promoted to the rank of Corporal and participated in the Battle of Saipan for which he received a Purple Heart and later fought in the Battle of Tinian where he received a second Purple Heart. Following the war, John was one of the original organizers of the Marine Corps League in Broome County, becoming a driving force behind an effort to honor deceased veterans at their funerals. During his tenure he facilitated around 3,000 funerals, sometimes attending up to five funerals a day. In 2011 John was honored with an induction into the New York Senate Veterans Hall of Fame. In 2012 he was honored by the Broome County Legislature as Detachment Marine of the Year and over the course of his decades long involvement with the Marine Corps League he received numerous Marine Corps League Distinguished Service Awards, Marine Corps League Distinguished Citizen Awards, and recognition from Broome County Legislatures and US Representatives. In 2016 he moved to Tampa, Florida to be closer to family where it became very clear that John never met a stranger. Known to the entire neighborhood as "Grandpa John", he loved waving to all the cars that drove by & the families as they walked their kids to the local elementary school. He took great pride in decorating his lawn for each & every patriotic holiday. He was a much-loved figurehead whose presence will be missed. Beyond his military service, he was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, known for his kindness, integrity, and unwavering dedication to his community. John's indomitable spirit and selfless sacrifice will forever be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. John is predeceased by his beloved wife of over 60 years, Zelma and his son Alexander. He is survived by his Daughters Arlynn O'Gara (Vincent) and Lorraine Dutkowsky (Robert), four grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, sisters Delores Rompala and Beverly Hudzina. As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate his remarkable life and the profound impact he had on those around him. John will be deeply missed but never forgotten. May he rest in peace, knowing that his legacy of courage and patriotism will endure for generations to come. In lieu of flowers, John requested that donations be made to the Marine Corps League Det 250; 363 West Service Road, Binghamton, NY 13901; Attn: Eric Fettermann. Calling hours will be at Coleman and Daniels Funeral Home, LLC 300 East Main St, Endicott on Saturday April 20, 2024 from 10:00am to 11:00am. Burial will immediately follow at St's Peter and Paul Cemetery.