John Benko Jr.

1946 - 2023

JOHNSON CITY - John Benko Jr., 76, of Johnson City, passed away peacefully Sunday morning.

John was employed for 20 years by Tennessee Eastman in Kingsport and for 18 years by Delfasco, Inc., in Greeneville.

After his retirement, John enjoyed his yard and classic cars and trucks.

A combat veteran of the U.S. Army, he served in Vietnam with the 1st Air Cavalry Division. John was awarded the Air Medal for meritorious achievement during more than 70 helicopter combat air assaults. His combat operations included Quangtri Province, An Khe, A Shau Valley, Hue, Tay Ninh Province, Khe Sahn, and many others. Other awards included the Vietnam Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Presidential Unit Citation. Upon returning from Vietnam, he was an assistant drill instructor (sergeant) at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

John is survived by his two children: Tracie (Shawn) Thompson and Brian (Esther) Benko; three grandchildren: Alec Thompson and Ethan and Emma Benko, all of Tampa; four siblings: Patty Benko of Nashville, Mark (Martie) Benko of Greeneville, Kathy (Art) Long of Burke, Virginia, and Becky (Kim) Chamberlin of Crossville; and a special friend: Pam Sarber.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Rita Benko of Greeneville.

There will be a committal service Friday at 11 a.m. in Mountain Home National Cemetery, in the Historic section. Those wishing to attend are asked to please assemble at the cemetery by 10:50 a.m.

Military honors will be rendered by Tennessee Army National Guard honor team, DAV Bristol No. 39, and Rolling Thunder.

Pallbearers will include Mark Benko Jr., Ben Benko, Drake Benko, Eric Chamberlin, Kevin Chamberlin, and Ethan Benko.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family via www.morrisbaker.com.

Morris-Baker Funeral Home, 2001 E Oakland Ave, Johnson City, is honored to serve the Benko family.