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JOHN KRONER Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for JOHN KRONER
Sponsored by Lisa Calli.
Dennis Scott
April 6, 2025
There are some people in this life who leave a lasting impression. But John left an "everlasting" impression. He is missed, but never forgotten.
Ann Margolin
April 6, 2025
I miss John whenever i see a Broadway musical. I miss him on his birthday and on many special occasions.
Shirley Gifford
April 4, 2025
Dear John,
God bless your beautiful soul, up in Heaven.
Love, your friend,
Shirley Elizabeth Gifford
Klaas
July 13, 2024
Nu na zoveel jaren kom ik er via via achter dat mijn grote lieve vriend John Kroner al in 2012 is overleden we belden elkaar met enige regelmaat hadden elkaar ontmoet op Aruba in 1987 waar hij mij direct uitnodigde voor een show in een hotel sindsdien waren we goede vrienden en ben ik in 1989 de eerste keer naar New York gegaan in hun prachtige appartement west_ end_ ave. Uiteindelijk zijn we elkaar uit het oog verloren alhoewel hij me altijd belde met m'n verjaardag. Maar dat stopte uiteindelijk waarvan de reden nu pas na al die jaren me pijnlijk duidelijk is geworden heel veel liefs voor Jeff en Marcus: Klaas uit Nederland
Shirley Gifford
April 4, 2024
I have just read all the beautiful condolences and memories of John which his loving friends wrote. Yes, he was an Angel on earth, and had a great outlook on life along with a great sense of humor. Dear Jeff and John were perfect partners, both placid, positive people.
I am so sorry that I did not find out about John's passing until many years later, since our lives had grown apart; I had lived and worked in Japan for 10 years. Although our relationship had been through the Music Business, I always thought of dear, sweet Angel John as a special friend. One evening, I recall that I met John, Jeff, and little Marcus for dinner at a small restaurant near their home. Marcus must have been only around four or five at the time. I miss you, "Angel John Baton!"
I want to convey my sympathies, though very belated, for Jeff's and Marcus's loss. My best friend, Fred, loved John and Jeff, as I did, although Fred had passed away before he could meet Marcus.
God bless your soul up in Heaven,
Beautiful John!
Shirley Gifford
December 30, 2023
I certainly loved my friend and Music associate, John Kroner. He had been my piano accompanist for various performances I used to do in NYC. Our paths had diverged when I left the Music Industry. I was astounded to find he had passed away. He always looked the picture of robust health, and always had rosy cheeks, like a cherub. I loved his easy-going sense of humor. Once when we were doing a steady cocktail hour gig together, we got some chicken and rice from the buffet, hardly any chicken. John said, "Oh, rice and bones."
My friend Fred started calling him
"John Baton" when he got the position as Conductor of a Broadway Show. I was older than John, and I never thought he would leave this earth before me, I guess because he did look so healthy. God bless his soul up in Heaven. I would like to get in touch with dear Jeff Martin, just to speak with him a bit. Maybe you could tell Jeff.
My email is [email protected]
Ann Margolin
April 10, 2023
You were a brother to me. I love you so much.
Weez
April 9, 2023
I still dream of you. It's always a wonderful dream spending time with you.
Love,
Weez
Dennis Scott
April 8, 2023
John,
I hope you knew how special you are - to me and everyone who knew you. Thank you for being a part of our lives, and welcoming us to be part of yours. I miss you, friend.
Bonnie Abrahams Fogel
April 4, 2022
As it has been said, "not a day goes by".
Somehow, we all go on, and on this 10th anniversary gratitude for knowing you cushions the grief. How proud you would be of Marcus, and Jeff contributes to this world by being himself, having spent 40 years with the kindest most loving man I´ve ever known.
Ann Margolin
April 4, 2022
I think of John so often. Especially when I hear Broadway tunes. Recently I was in a restaurant in New Orleans and the background music was Broadway hits. I started to cry. I keep his picture with Jeff and Marcus on a bookcase with other family photos.
Dennis Scott
April 4, 2021
Here's to you John. Thank you for your music, the fun, and great memories. I smile just thinking about you. Your legacy lives on through all the lives you touched - including mine.
Jimmy Roberts
April 4, 2020
Still thinking of and missing this amazing man. Always. Jimmy
Ann Margolin
April 5, 2019
For your yahrzeit, John. Love, Ann
Ann Margolin
April 5, 2019
John was my friend from the time I moved into the house next door to his when I was 4 and we stayed friends until his passing. I have a picture of us when we ere maybe 5 on my desk. It makes me smile. He was so open and funny and real. He was like a brother.
Dennis Scott
April 4, 2019
When I think of the special people who have touched my life, John Kroner is high on the list. Undoubtably, he is one of the most gifted individuals I have ever known - not to mention, the funniest. Whenever I think of him, I smile. I am blessed to have known him. The world need "Tony King" now more than ever...
David Cash
April 4, 2019
So an email from Legacy.com just arrived referring to the anniversary of your passing. I don't need a reminder. It is with me every day just as your life is. It seems unreal that it's been seven years since we laughed and sang and ate and traveled. The days of John and Jeff and Sandy and David were the best of my life. As Mr. Sondheim wrote "Not a day goes by, not a single day but you're somewhere a part of my life and it looks like you'll stay..."
victor capecce
January 14, 2019
Seems like yesterday, yet so long ago at the same time.
All our lives are so inter-connected. Loss of all but the memories.
January 13, 2019
Just thinking of John. I had to renew the book. Love you my dear friend!! xoxo Lisa
May 5, 2014
John, the guest book will be online for just a few more days and I have been thinking about you more than I usually do, if that is possible. You've been...absent? for more than two years and not a day goes by without my missing you. The pain is less intense but it is always there. Sometimes when I think of something funny or absurd, and I know that you will be the only other person who will think that way, my hand will reach, involuntarily, for the phone. I guess it's perfectly normal. After all there were many days when we spoke four or five times in a day. Sandy and I will never stop loving you and will never stop loving and caring about Jeff and Marcus. I've never really given much thought to whether or not there is an afterlife. Now I kind of hope there is if only for the chance to laugh with you again.
Victor Capecce
July 15, 2013
From the "Tony King Show" to "the musical version of "The Diary of Anne Frank" (John called it "Dear Diary!")to the glorious rendition of"Love, Look in My Window" (a la Merman)John's spirit of wit was exceeded only by his boundless knowledge of the musical theater he loved. Great times! Great Memories! That's what lives on. Love to you all!
Love to Jeff and Marcus!
July 11, 2013
Johnny...we became friends when we were twelve years old at The Academy, went to college together, hosted our radio show together and traveled the countryside together. We lived together, ate together, laughed together, cried together, hugged each other, punched each other, loved each other and hated each other.
RIP, my friend. There never existed a funnier, more talented man than you and never a kinder spirit.
Love, Spats
P.S. Hey, Johnny, spoke to Jeffrey last night and he sounded almost okay. Just thought you'd like to know. Then again, you know already, don't you.
Debbie Studer
January 4, 2013
My One and Only John,
One minute I was sad that I hadn't spoken with you in months. The next minute I was devastated and heartbroken to find you were gone from my life forever.
Memories of shlepping up to the Catskills and stopping at the Middletown Diner for fried chicken - and of course your fabulous impersonation of Hermione Gingold - Ah yes, I remember it well. Every trip to the Borscht Belt and the Country Clubs with you was an adventure where you had us doubled over with laughter. In fact, every moment spent with you was a blessing from God.
Then there was "Hollywood Live" in Amish country. I will never forget how wonderful you and Jeff were to me during that time. Your talent, love and support gave me the courage to perform again.
Yes, unfortunately we lost touch over the years and our catch-up phone calls were never enough. But some people remain in your heart no matter how life separates you. I will never forget your adorable face. You were truly one of a kind.
Jeff and Marcus - my heart aches for you. John always spoke so proudly of you both - he loved you so.
How lucky we all were to have John touch our lives.
"A Prince of Love in every way
Ah yes, I remember it well."
Tammy Brainin-Gonzalez
December 23, 2012
December 23,2012
It was with great shock to find this out today as I sat and read the IC News. My eyes were filled with tears and my heart was remembering the laughter he brought to many. He was a kind
and gentle man, Jeff & Marcus I am so sorry for your loss
Tammy Sue Brainin, New York Class of "74
Rob Southworth
June 4, 2012
Is Anybody There?
John Kroner's 1776 Musical
As a new congress struggles to sit and sign,
A reluctant nation hears a General resigned,
Not one response to his last fifteen dispatches,
"is anybody there?" defines a union that detaches.
Adams' vision, through all the gloom and stories,
Are the rays of ravishing light and glory.
I sit at the desk where John used to play,
Listening for show tunes from far away,
But all I see are the posters of fame,
All I think about is life's little game.
Jefferson's worried about the use of 'Tyrant"
Adams remarks, it's a revolution, damn it,
We're going to have to offend somebody!
Yet these men work to offend nobody.
John is showing me his favorite musical,
And leading me through how beautiful,
The music matches the words of song,
I know how hard it is to say so long.
Rutledge in South Carolina demands the removal,
Of the anit-slavery clause for his approval.
Now John remembers the actors who starred,
Each held by a memory's compass card,
Sure in its direction and pointing the way,
Jeff's proud of John's and his tune-filled days.
Wilson doesn't want to be the man to say nay,
So rallies for American Independence and votes a "yea."
I smile at John so present for me in his prime,
In answer to questions of a favorite in time,
The gift of musicals is fine, yet 1776 is sublime,
Is anybody there rings out for all of rhyme.
Lewis Morris, and delegates from New York say,
"To Hell with New York, I'll sign it anyway!"
As Hancock watches over the Declaration signing,
And the others join a new country designing,
Its future secured in most thoughtful hands,
I miss our John and know he understands.
Love, Rob
Bonnie Abrahams Fogel
May 1, 2012
Dearest John,
Your sweetness and kindness were unmatched. I will always miss you and long for the fruition of our plan to be elderly roomates. I'm resolved to honor you by being as good and kind a person as you... and to always be there for Jeff and Marcus,
All my love,
Bonnie
Betty Stoller (Alaimo)
April 29, 2012
You will be forever in my heart. You were an integral part of my past, and I will always regret that you were not part of my present and future.
Robert Hoover
April 21, 2012
Knowing John and Jeff for over 35 years, it is with a heavy heart that I say goodbye to my pal "Yvonne de Kroner", as I affectionately called him. My fellow Barbra freak to the max, always dear, sweet, kind, he made you feel like you were real special. It is John who was the most special of all. Love you always, from Ithaca, Binghamton, to New York. Sympathies to Jeff, Marcus and the rest of the family.
John and our tiny Evan
Weez
April 19, 2012
Jeff, Jane, Weez, John
Weez
April 19, 2012
Where's the disney music?
weez
April 19, 2012
Jeff, Evan, Gary, John
weez
April 19, 2012
Elissa, Jeff, and John
Weez
April 19, 2012
Lisa Calli
April 18, 2012
Everyday Luka and I talk about how much we miss John, love him, and how much he influenced our lives. From the he fun lazy days when we lived on 88th street and could walk to each others houses in 1 minute, the boys were litle and the backyard BBQs right thru to John prepping Luka for his South Pacific audition, which he got at age 7, because after all when someone as close as John was to him could make music seem so much a normal part of life, what is there to be scared of at an audition!! John had recently worked with Luka on Into the Woods and thank God I taped it on my iPhone. He was exciting and joyful, and his usual passionate warm loving self. On Friday Luka had to learn a brand new John Kander song for a callback. It hit us so hard that John would not be there to share this with, and teach and mentor Luka. It was a very comedic song that John would gotten a real kick out of! Luka went and gave Mr Kander a good belly laugh and that was priceless. Jeff just texted me that John was probably in the room with him. I sure think so. We miss you John!! Every single day! Xxoo
Joan Dill
April 18, 2012
April 18, 2012
To the Kroner Family,
I have known John since elementary school where we attended Walnut Avenue. I was glad to see John again in 2009 and reconnect with him at a high school reunion. He seemed so content with all aspects of his life. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family in Cranford and New York.
Joan (Backinoff) Dill
Sharon, Massachusetts
Ron Navarre
April 17, 2012
John radiated with the warmth of your favorite blanket. I can still see Henri sound asleep on Johns chest at his first birthday party. What a loving soul John is and always will be. We will miss you dearly.
Love and light to you and Jeff and Markus
Ron, Madeline, Henri and Alma
April 17, 2012
My sweet Juan -- Time cannot dim the light you have lit in so many lives, dear one.
love always,
mariah von munger
Jimmy Roberts
April 17, 2012
One day he's preparing a musical score for me, the next he's gone? John? That relaxed feeling you had when you were in his presence. His overwhelming knowledge and love of his craft, but never with airs or attitude. Can all this have disappeared? No, never completely. In memory, for all who knew him, who can still hear his voice in their heads, still feel his gentle nature, John lives.
Love, Jimmy
Michael Alden
April 16, 2012
John was my introduction to Broadway musicals. His love of the arts, his family and friends...an inspiration. He will be missed so very much.
Ronnie (Burstein) Croughan
April 15, 2012
To the Kroner family, who I and my Cranford, NJ family knew since childhood; I was so sorry to hear of John's passing. He was a dear childhood friend. My most sincere sympathies to his family in Cranford and in New York.
April 15, 2012
Hey john; you said this to me a long time ago. Ginny if you remember me as Barbara Striesand and I remember you as Frank Sinatra than we will never forget each other. i never forgot you. Say hi to Frank for me. . ginny
Robyn Martin
April 14, 2012
We were privileged to know John. A sweet warm lovable caring easy going talented person. We didn't get to see him enough, but when we did it was fun. Being connected to Jeff through marriage we got to come to their home in NYC. What a treat.....so much fun. cooking, movies, theatre people parties.Events we went to too many to mention.John will live in song forever in our hearts and mind. Robyn Frankel Martin, Jason Jeremy
Clayton Phillips
April 14, 2012
You will be greatly missed John by your family and the world!
Marc Austen
April 13, 2012
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Karen Winer
April 12, 2012
How wonderful to read the outpouring of kind words about John. Might I add that however quick and sardonic his wit, his quips were never at the expense of anyone else. Rest in peace, John.
April 12, 2012
Dear John,
If your life were a song from a show, it would truly be a show-stopper. It would be one of those numbers that Walter Kerr would single out as being destined to become a standard: It would be funny and touching and possess a melody that would be easy to hum as soon as we left the theater.
Right now in this moment I am longing for a reprise.
I will love you and be grateful for your powerful, positive influence on my life forever.
-Doug
Amy Steele
April 12, 2012
I was so very sorry to know of John's passing. My heart is breaking for Jeff and Marcus. The three of you were such a wonderful family. Our family enjoyed many summer days when Jeff, John, and Marcus visited us in the woods of NJ - sharing meals, conversation, the pool, hot tub, and the Fair. We will all miss John - he was a dear friend.
Brenda Johnson
April 12, 2012
I am so sad after hearing of John's passing, but I know I will see him again and we will greet each other with a resounding "Hello.....Dahling."
Adam Janjigian
April 12, 2012
I had the pleasure of living a few floors up from John, Jeff, and Marcus for two years and can't remember a single time where I saw John without a smile on his face. He will be sorely missed.
Faye Greenberg
April 12, 2012
WHEN I MOVED TO NEW YORK IN THE EARLY EIGHTIES I WAS INTRODUCED TO THREE THINGS THAT CHANGED MY LIFE – THE EXPRESS TRAIN, COLD NOODLES IN SESAME SAUCE AND JOHN KRONER. HE WAS A GIFT FROM LYNNIE GREENE AND WE BECAME FRIENDS AND COLLABORATORS ALMOST IMMEDIATELY. I CAN'T BEGIN TO COUNT THE WONDERFUL DAYS AND NIGHTS SPENT AT CASA KRONER/MARTIN OVER THE YEARS – WRITING SONGS, ORDERING TAKE OUT (OR BETTER STILL, JEFF COOKING), PLANNING OUR FUTURES, SHARING OUR LIVES. AND THE VIDEOS, GOOD GOD HAS THERE EVER BEEN A LIVING ROOM LIKE JOHN & JEFF'S? JOHN WAS THE ORIGINAL YOUTUBE. EVEN AFTER I WOUND UP BACK IN LOS ANGELES WE NEVER LOST TOUCH. HE CONTINUED TO BE PART OF THE FABRIC OF MY LIFE – MY HUSBAND, DAVID LOVED HIM. MY DAUGHTER, MABEL LOVED HIM. HE EVEN HAD A SPECIAL BOND WITH MY DOG, PUSHKIN. ALTHOUGH THAT RELATIONSHIP WAS STRAINED WHEN PUSHKIN STOLE JOHN'S TUNA FISH.
JOHN WAS AN EXTRAORDINARILY SWEET, KIND, TALENTED, GUILELESS MAN, WHO BROUGHT A SENSE OF JOY AND WONDER TO EVERYTHING HE DID AND EVERY LIFE HE TOUCHED. THE IDEA THAT HE IS NO LONGER HERE WITH US IS SIMPLY UNACCEPTABLE.
Edwin Abath
April 12, 2012
Remembering John, I am particularly grateful for his believe in pure talent. When he and Jeff arrived in beautiful Aruba to bring their magic touch to the Alladin Theatre, they created a wonderful sinergy between local and American talent. Genie, the musical, will forever be the Greatest show produced for the tiniest stage! We are forever blessed with the fond memories of this dear human being. May he rest in Peace.
Ryan Leitch
April 11, 2012
I am so sorry for your loss. I am thankful I was able to visit Jeff, John and Marcus while I was in NYC over Christmas. John was a wonderful person and he will be missed.
Ann Margolin
April 11, 2012
John-- we met when we were 4 years old and I moved in next door. So many years of playing after school, being in plays together, always staying in touch. I will miss your loving friendship. I always knew you were there. My heart goes out to Jeff, Marcus, Jean and Laurie. We have lost a lovely human being.
April 11, 2012
April 11, 2012
Debi Starr
April 11, 2012
I am saddened by this news, John was always funny, creative and a great person to work with. I have fond memories of John and the shows. Heartfelt sympathy and love to Jeff and Marcus.
David
April 11, 2012
You are with me now and you will be with me tomorrow and every day thereafter. Sandy and I will love you forever and will always be there for Jeff and Marcus. And one more time: "God dag på dig"
Holly Faris
April 11, 2012
John was one of the funniest people I ever met. He and Jeff gave me my start in show business and changed my life forever. The world has lost a great talent and heaven will be a much funnier place with an angel like John. I will miss him. My love and sympathy go out to you, Jeff and Marcus.
Ellie Ellsworth
April 11, 2012
John always was kind and enthusiastic. His special warmth and expressions of surprise and enjoyment always lifted my spirits. As a member of a community of gifted people in the world of musical theater and cabaret his leaving us has created a great loss to the community. -Ellie Ellsworth a fellow West Ender.
Dennis Scott
April 11, 2012
John was one-of-a kind and, perhaps, the funniest person I have ever known. His impersonation of Ethel Meman was classic - only to be surpassed by his self made lounge lizard character, Tony King. I so enjoyed our friendship and visiting John and Jeff at their wonderful West Side home was better than going to Disney World. I am grateful that dispute the fact that I live in nashville, our friendship remained as strong as ever. John, here's looking at you kid.
Linda Kosut
April 11, 2012
I am devastated by the news of John's passing. Oh yes you will be missed by so many. My heart is heavy for Jeff and Marcus.
Lua Hadar
April 11, 2012
John was such a dear and knowledgable man, so creative, so warm and so funny. He taught me so much. I am so grateful to have known him for so many years and to have been blessed by his friendship, support and deep storehouse of information. I am grateful, too, that in the most recent years, his musical theatre history students had the chance to be influenced by him. I will miss his presence but will never, ever forget him or what he taught me. My heart goes out to Jeff, Marcus and all John's family and friends.
Kimberly Greenberg
April 11, 2012
I was so sad to hear of John's passing from our mutual friend (who also introduced us) phil stellar. John had such a kind heart. He embraced me with open arms since our first meeting. My deepest condolences to Jeff and Marcus. I'm sure he we will be watching down on you both from above.
April 11, 2012
We are shocked beyond measure by John's death. John was one of the kindest, sweetest, most generous people we have ever met -- a devoted father, partner and friend. His goodness and talent lit up the world. Marcus and Jeff, we send you all our love.
= Kati, Conn, Danny, Jack, Molly and Isabel.
Jeffrey Ponnel
April 11, 2012
John, You have always been my major source of laughter and now there is an emptiness that can never be filled. I have your smiling image imprinted in my brain and you will always walk along side of me. I love you, Jeff
Sandy Rosenberg
April 11, 2012
There are no words for the deep sadness I feel. John was so concerned about inconveniencing people by having them shlep to the hospital to visit him...and even more concerned that people help out Jeff and Marcus first. And that was John.
Selfless, kind, talented, funny....just the dearest sweetest man. And most importantly-my friend. I will miss him for the rest of my life.
Night of 1,000 Ramas, Ithaca, NY
Joni Fritz
April 10, 2012
You were one of a kind, John — a sweet and wonderful mix of talent, wit, generosity and kindness that will never be forgotten.
Kenneth Kantor and Andrew Glant-Linden
April 10, 2012
So shocked and saddened to hear of John's passing. His gift of talent, generosity and kindness to us will be remembered for the rest of our lives. He set us on a path of sharing that has enriched us beyond words and given us endless joys. We will miss his spirit in this world.
Dan E. Campbell
April 10, 2012
I am so sorry to hear about John's passing. He was a great guy and I enjoyed whatever amount of time I got to spend with him. He will be very missed.
Dennis Grimaldi
April 10, 2012
you brought much joy to so many by your time here on earth.. rest in peace.
Victor Capecce
April 10, 2012
Prayers with John; and prayers and thoughts with Jeff and Marcus.
April 10, 2012
We only knew John for the past few years, but were so impressed by his warmth; sincerity and dedication and love for his son Marcus. The world has lost one of the best there was - Phil and Chet Stellar
John as Mr. Van Dann (left) in the Clinton Summer Theater production of "The Diary of Anne Frank," 1972
Arthur Bicknell
April 10, 2012
RIP "Putti" from "Otto." You always made me laugh, and you always inspired.
April 9, 2012
I will miss you everyday JK.
love,
weez
April 9, 2012
I am so sad to learn of John's passing. I grew up with John and his family and have such fond memories of our childhood days. I am so sorry we have not been in touch. He was always such a wonderful human being. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. My family is so sorry for your loss. Nancy(Rabin) Gelber, Steve Rabin and Elyse (Rabin) Schneiderman
Lynda&Steve Hopkins
April 9, 2012
We are in shock. John was such a dear, sweet friend. Everyone who knew John appreciated his goodness. Jeff and Marcus, our family is so sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
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