John "Butch" Syrotynski, Jr.

Mr. John “Butch” Syrotynski, Jr., age 81, a native Utican and currently of New Hartford, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 24, 2009 with the love and support of his family. Born in Utica on March 13, 1928, John was the son of the late John, Sr. and Julia (Bilaruska) Syrotynski. Raised and educated locally, he was a graduate of T. R. Proctor High School. A veteran of the U.S. Army, he served his country in World War II and also in the Korean Conflict. On November 17, 1951 he married the former Carmelita LaBella; he was a dependable spouse, supportive to their marriage of 57 years. John had been employed for many years at the Univac Corporation prior to his retirement. A man of quiet demeanor, he possessed strength of character especially during his years of illness. John loved his family and took pride in the generations that followed; they admired him as one who gave solid and honest advice. He was very proud of his Ukrainian heritage and celebrated the holiday of “Little Christmas” which was very special to him. An innate sportsman, he participated in activities during his youth, and was a great supporter of the Syracuse University teams as a spectator. The camaraderie of his friends was truly meaningful to him and he was a member of the East Utica Fish & Game Club which annually met at Altieri’s Restaurant in Clinton. He was also a horse racing enthusiast handicapping the races at Belmont, Aqueduct, and Saratoga. He was a parishioner of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. John is survived by his wife, Carmelita; his daughter, JoAnn Musch, with whom John and Carmelita resided; and his son and daughter-in-law, John III and Regina Syrotynski, all of New Hartford. Always close to his heart was the memory of his son-in-law, John Peter Musch who preceded him in death. He also leaves his grandchildren, Dr. John M. and Rachel Syrotynski of Utica, Russell J. Syrotynski, and Jennifer A. Musch, both of New Hartford; and his great-grandchildren, John Michael Syrotynski, Jr., Gabriel Vincent Syrotynski, and Nicholas Jude Syrotynski. Survivors include his sister, Eugenia “Jennie” Egitto of Utica; his brother and sister-in-law, Samuel and Marge Syrotynski of Clifton Park, NY; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his sister and brother-in-law, Mary and Walter Konopelski; his brother and sister-in-law, Michael and Dorothy Syrotynski; and his in-laws, Peter D. Egitto, and Marie and James Graziano. The family is grateful to Dr. Francis Constantine and Dr. Ashok Patel, John’s longtime physicians who were truly devoted and compassionate. Visitation will be held Thursday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. John’s funeral service will commence on Friday morning at 10:30 from the funeral home and at 11:30 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Entombment will follow in Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum with Military Honors.

John "Butch" Syrotynski, Jr.

March 13, 1928 - March 24, 2009