John Harmke

John Harmke, born July 31, 1952, in the Bronx, New York, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family on Thursday, January 8, 2026. He was the beloved son of the late John Harmke and Virginia Dorothy Pantall Harmke.

John was the devoted husband of Mary Katherine "Katie" Harmke, with whom he shared 35 loving years of marriage. Family was the center of his life, and he took great pride in being a devoted husband and father. John earned a degree in Criminal Justice from Westchester County Community College before beginning a distinguished and cherished career in law enforcement. His dedication, integrity, and leadership defined his service to the community. John ultimately became the longest-serving Chief of Police for the Town of Cornwall, a role in which he served with honor and commitment. In addition to his service in Cornwall, John worked as an Environmental Conservation Officer with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) and later as an Investigator with the NYSDEC, Bureau of Environmental Crimes Investigation. Above all, John loved his family and believed in the importance of serving others. His career as a public servant was not just a profession but a calling, and his legacy of dedication, fairness, and compassion will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He is survived by his loving wife, Katie Harmke; his daughter, Alyssa Hamilton (Colin); as well as numerous beloved family and friends. The family would like to thank Gentiva Hospice, McKenzie Couch, RN, BSN, William Strickland, RN, Teri Petkovich, RN, Emily Buchheit, MSW, Dorchester County EMT and Fire Department, and Carelinc Medical Supply and Equipment for their care, compassion, and professionalism throughout this process.

John will be laid to rest beside his parents at Milltown Cemetery in Brewster, NY at a later date. The family would like to invite all who had the privilege of knowing him to celebrate his law enforcement career and life.