John S. Kogut

John S. Kogut
New Hartford
John Sherrill Kogut, of New Hartford, passed away unexpectedly on December 12, 2012. His beloved granddaughter, Alexandra Gerace Kogut, and the Lord welcome him into the kingdom of heaven. John was born May 31, 1942, in Utica, son of Peter and Wanda Kogut. He graduated high school from UFA, and received his undergraduate degree in Electrical Engineering and his Masters in Business Administration from Renssalaer Polytechnic Institute. John dedicated his life to his family, friends and community. He is a Paul Harris Fellow and Past President of the Utica Rotary Club, through which he spent many years on the District Youth Exchange committee welcoming international students into his home and his community. Elementary students from Columbus School may remember him reading to them over the years. He served on the Foundation Board of St. Luke's Hospital for several years, and is Past Governor and President of the Finger Lakes' Chapter of the National Electrical Contractor's Association. While many will remember John as a man who took his family and community responsibilities seriously, he also had a great enthusiasm and love for life. In the 70s, John became a private pilot, along with his wife, Barbara, and best friend, Larry Golden, and were known by many as the "ATJ Flyers". He was also an avid curler at the Utica Curling Club. John and Barbara enjoyed their trips abroad, especially to France, where they roamed the countryside, kayaked the Ardeche, and enjoyed a beautiful glass of wine. For years, he enjoyed family dinners at Joe's every Saturday night. More recently, many will remember John as a regular at Karam's, one of his favorite lunch spots. Perhaps John's greatest love in life was spending time with his family at Big Moose Lake, at the camp that he built with his own hands. In the woods, he was "home". He enjoyed brisk walks, boat rides around the lake, and the many birds, ducks and deer that would follow him wherever he went. John is survived by his wife, Barbara; and his brothers, Norman, Walter, and Peter (and sister-in-law, Christine). He is treasured by his children, Kelly Kogut and CJ Weinschreider, Mark and Becky Kogut, Amy (Kogut) and Tom Klempay, and Christopher and Shahiba Kogut. His grandchildren, Andrew, Emily, Sydney, Oscar, Charlie, Rayka and Calvin, will miss their "Grandpa Johnny", his laugh, his smile, and his hugs. Many, many loving extended family and friends will remember him with the highest regard. A community service will be held at a later date. There are no calling hours. Online messages of sympathy go to: www.dfwefh.com
John S. Kogut