Photo courtesy of Reichel Funeral Home - Northampton
Northampton, Pennsylvania
Jul 20, 1930 – Apr 17, 2021 (Age 90)
John Kachmar, 90, of Northampton, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 17, 2021. John and his wife, Mary (Harakal), celebrated 63 years of marriage last August. Born July 20, 1930 in Northampton, he was a son of the late Philip and Anna (Guzy) Kachmar. John was a 1948 graduate of Northampton High School. He honorably served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Korean Conflict. He enlisted Dec. 7, 1948 and served on the USS Newport News until his discharge on Nov. 21, 1952. He then continued his education at Moravian College and Lehigh University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting and business, and a master’s degree in education, respectively. John then went on to teach in the Phillipsburg School District for 35 years. He taught various accounting and business courses at the high school level. He was a member of Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church of Northampton and held the office of treasurer for the Young at Heart group.
In addition to his wife, Mary, John is survived by daughters, Kathy Skrapits and her husband, Andy, and Karen Glassic and her husband, Ronald; grandchildren, Nicole, Kristen, Michael, Brian and Bethany. John was predeceased by his siblings, Alex Kachmar, Mary Mekosh, Anna Marth, and Rose Kachmar Szupper.
Services: A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, April 24th at 10:00 a.m. in Assumption BVM Church, 22nd & Washington Ave., Northampton. Family and friends may call Friday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. in the Reichel Funeral Home, 326 E. 21st St., Northampton. Those in attendance will kindly be requested to practice social distancing and to wear a face cover. Entombment will be private. Online condolences may be offered below.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be presented to the church in loving memory of John.
Read MoreMy thoughts and prayers.
Shared many wonderful years teaching at Phillipsburg H.S. with John!
"Miss Brooks" in the P.E. Dept.
Susan Brooks
May 07, 2021 | Phillipsburg, NJ | Coworker
Wonder teacher so kind and patient. RIP
JoAnn Smulick
April 28, 2021 | Phillipsburg, NJ | Student
Dear Mary and family- Remembering John, a handsome sailor, from growing up with him and sister Rose. A gentle soul and wonderful person. May God grant him eternal rest. Sincere sympathy & prayers, Joan & Steve
Joan & Steve PRISTASH
April 24, 2021 | WHITEHALL, PA | Friend
Mr. Kachmar, was an amazing individual. He was like a father to me as well, through my brother and sister-in-law, after my father passed away so young. He was always the teacher, asking questions of the kids, especially math questions !!! He Loved spending time with the family and was always there to help. He was such a caring, kind and compassionate man. He will be deeply missed, but never forgot, by all!
Love,
Jim, Nicholas and Elizabeth Glassic
Jim Glassic
April 23, 2021
In loving memory of a very special, wonderful person. As a close childhood friend of Kathy and Karen, I spent a lot of time at your home, the pool, playground, etc. with your family. I am moved and thankful for the impact your family has had in my life, and have not, will not every forget you. God bless you and the entire family. Love, Kathy Stroh Clark
Kathy Stroh Clark
April 23, 2021 | Neighbor
John & Mary Kachmar
Antonia Szupper
April 23, 2021 | Lansdowne, PA | Family
Just Johnny - 1948
Antonia Szupper
April 23, 2021 | Lansdowne, PA | Family
Uncle John graced the world with a countenance befitting an officer and a gentleman. His own self expression was the uncanny practice of listening to others. Never assaulting, his voice bore a melodic cadence that fused subtle wit and local diction into a sound uniquely "Northampton". My earliest memories include images of Aunt Mary and Uncle John walking hand-in-hand, sporting bobby socks & crew cut - as if taken from a black and white movie and inserted into any future moment. Inherently...
Antonia Szupper
April 23, 2021 | Lansdowne, PA | Family
He was a great teacher and wonderful person. He is remembered fondly by many who had the privilege to be in one of his classes. He is the reason why I went on to get my accounting degree. May he rest in peace.
Kim Janis
April 21, 2021 | Student
