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John Kriner Obituary
John Milton Kriner II, 53, of State College, died Sunday, October 9, 2011, at Mount Nittany Medical Center. Born May 15, 1958, in Kingston, he was a son of John M. and Betta Hirko Kriner. He was a 1979 graduate of State College Area High School. He received certification from Centre Co. Vocational Technical School and Hiram G. Andrews Technical School. He was employed as a custodian by the State College Area School District. John was a member of Troop 339 Boy Scouts of America where he received many awards, including, the Eagle Scout with Gold Palm, Silver Beaver Award, Unit Commissioner, Honorary Camp Director, Wood Badge Beaver. He attended four BSA National Jamborees and served as a staff member for two years. He was a Vigil Honor Member of the Monaken Lodge, Order of the Arrow, and an honorary member of PSU Alpha Phi Omega. John was a member of the Grace Lutheran Church where he served as an usher, greeter and was a member of Disciples Sunday School Class. He was also a Special Olympics silver, bronze, and gold medal winner in state competition swimming. A visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday in the Koch Funeral Home, 2401 S. Atherton St., State College, Pa. A funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Thursday in the Grace Lutheran Church with the Rev. P. Stevens Lynn officiating. Burial will be in the Centre County Memorial Park. Memorial Contributions may be given to the Grace Lutheran Church, Building Fund, 205 S. Garner St., State College, PA 16801, or to the Juniata Valley Council, Boy Scouts of America (JVC-BSA), 9 Taylor Drive, Reedsville, PA 17084 or the charity of your choice. Arrangements are under the care of Koch Funeral Home, State College. Online condolences may be made at www.kochfuneralhome.com .
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Memories and Condolences
for John Kriner
Patrick Mercer
October 5, 2025
John, you've been in Heaven 14 years now and I still miss you and your amazing smile! Your parents were Awesome as well. Your Dad was our Jr. High School Principal. I Never heard him raise his voice, and he had the ultimate respect of almost evey student. (probably not the bad ones, lol). Your Mom was So sweet and gentle, Your Sweet Spirit and Kindness are an everlasting tribute to them both. It must be beyond belief sharing Heaven with Jesus and your Folks. Can't wait to see you all again someday. Till then I'll keep your memories alive, and continue to share our stories of our long Friendship! I'll Never forget Woodshop class with Mr. (Wildman) Salade!
OH Boy! ROTFWL!
SEE YA SOON BUD!
PATRICK
Mary Lou Pratt
November 2, 2011
Mr. and Mrs. Kriner,
My deepest sympathies on the loss of your son. I was a member of Grace Lutheran Church and a 1971 State College High School Graduate. My contact with John was only occasional, but I was always greatly impressed by his poise, politeness, and kindness.
"DEATH be not proud, though some have called thee Mighty and dreadful, for, thou art not so, For, those, whom thou think'st, thou dost overthrow, Die not." John Donne.
May you be comforted by the love of family and friends until that future day when you will be reunited with your son in the place where there will be no more tears.
October 23, 2011
Mr and Mrs Kriner, I am saddened to hear of John's passing. I remember him from Jr HS. I can't imagine a kinder or sweeter soul. I will never forget John's smile. His spirit in greeting every new day inspired me then, and is doing so now, as I'm writing this. Jim Wilcox (Portland, OR).
Patrick Mercer
October 22, 2011
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Kriner, I was so shocked to learn of John's passing today from my sister Pam. John's loving and caring attitude is a tribute to you both. I will never forget his genuine smile and gentle spirit. I remember swimming with John at the Elk's Club in Boalsburg, and he was so kind to me all through the turbulent years of Jr. High. (Mr. Kriner, you were the most awesome principal!) I remember how proud John was, and it was an honor to graduate with him (fireworks courtesy of Mr. Tib Bunnell, lol). I remember running into you all at the Arts Festival in 1986, and Johns big smile and hearty handshake. I will remember his tenderness for the rest of my days, and the world is a colder place without John. I wanted so much to attend our 30th reunion, however was unable due to health complications. I was so happy to see the pictures that Cindy Wolf took of John. I will treasure memories of him forever. "Well Done, Thou Good And Faithful Servant" Jesus. May He comfort you in your deepest sorrow. Patrick Mercer
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Chuck Yorks
October 18, 2011
I will always treasure my memories of John John's visits to South Hills and the love he had for all ... Blessings to you both! And we will all be together again!
Robert C Hall
October 18, 2011
Mr. & Mrs. Kriner, we offer our heart felt sorrows for you during this time. We knew John in school. He was a kind and gentle young man. His smile will forever leave its mark in all of our hearts. It is our prayer, that God may provide peace and strength for you both during this time. Know that our prayers and thoughts are with you, God Bless.
Georgia Reutzel
October 17, 2011
Please accept my heartfelt sympathy on the loss of your son, John. His warm smile and gentle loving ways always brought joy to my heart when I saw you all siting together at Grace on Sunday mornings. The love of your family is palpable. An inspiration to all. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Todd Wheeler
October 14, 2011
What a wonderful young Man John was, what a honor it was to have known him, He is God's hands now and you will meet him again! God Bless both of you! Our deepest thoughts and prayers for you. The Wheeler Family & Wheelers small engine.
Sonya Hall McMullen
October 13, 2011
Mr. and Mrs Kriner, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your son. John was a caring man and a blessing to the State College community. I think of your family often and miss seeing you all on Sunday mornings. I know that John walks with God. My prayers are with you. Love, Sonya A. Hall McMullen
Peggy Thatcher
October 13, 2011
May God's love be with you two during this difficult time. May you know the love and compassion that your son gave to others. May you find peace and love during this time of loss.
Carolyn Holt
October 13, 2011
I have fond memories of John John at the South Building making sure that everything was meticulously clean to his very high standards. He was so friendly and cheerful; a joy to be around. My sympathies to all the Kriner family. You are in my prayers.
Michael Wurst
October 13, 2011
Mr and Mrs Kriner, my thoughts and prayers are with you. Some of the best scouting experiences I ever had were with John. The most memorable was awarding John his Vigil Honor. He will be dearly missed.
October 12, 2011
John and Betta, We were so saddened to hear of John John's passing.You have our deepest sympathy. John was truly a special man and you can be so proud that you were able to allow him to reach his goals. Those of us who knew him well and are truly your friends, are blessed. May God be with and comfort you. Jack and Sharron Lingenfelter, Sigel, PA.
Ann Marsilio
October 12, 2011
My sincere sympathy on John's passing. My son also has Down Syndrome, he is 16. I hope he will be able to do all the wonderful things that your John has done. My heart breaks for your loss and I know John is in the highest possible place in Heaven.
Jeffrey Hodgson
October 12, 2011
I am sorry to hear of the passing of John. I didn't know John very well but would see him at Scouting events throughout the years. I was so honored to have had him attend my Eagle Scout ceremony in 2003. John was such a kind person who contributed and accomplished so much on this earth. A warm smile and a kind greeting were John's traits. He will be missed by many Scouts and friends.
Bill Wittmer
October 12, 2011
John & Betta
I have met thousands of wonderful people in my years of Scouting but John John was one of the most special. His cheerful attitude, inquiring spirit and boundless enthusiasm was always infectious.
The common interest of Scouting brought us together but John John was a kindred spirit in so many ways.
In this time when others are satisfied to just get by, John aspired to be the best at something. He earned everything he did, from his degree, his Eagle Scout, Woodbadge, Vigil, Alpha Phi Omega and more.
And he was constantly concerned over the needs of others, exemplifying the spirit of Scouting, the OA and APO as well as his Lutheran faith.
There was little wonder John was so special when you got to know his parents. Both of you had so much love for him and yet still had so much more to share with others was also inspiring.
There are so many warm memories from over the years and I thank you for letting me share the time you had with him.
In this sad time, we can all rest assured that whenever we get to that great scout camp in the sky, there will be a smiling face, a warm hug, a Penn State button and a ton of love waiting to greet us.
All my love
Mark Fisher
October 12, 2011
I was John's Scoutmaster in the early 80's and one of the proudest moments in my life was seeing him attain Eagle Scout. I told someone that at my local district roundtable meeting just last night! John will forever hold a place in my heart and thoughts.
Corinne Stonier
October 12, 2011
Mr and Mrs Kriner,
I'm so thankful that I got to see John John at Grammy's funeral. He gave me big hugs and it brought back floods of good memories of being a kid playing in Harris Acres, playing at your home and with John John. I will remember him fondly always. God bless you both and I'm so sorry for your loss.
Gwen Nese
October 12, 2011
My deepest sympathy to the Kriner family. Although I didn't know John all that well, I was impressed with him the few times that I met him at the Museum and grocery store with his father. May God hold him in the palm of his hand until we all meet again.
Boalsburg Apothecary
October 12, 2011
The Kriner family is the kindest family. We always enjoyed seeing John when he came to the pharmacy with his dad. What a gentle soul he was! We will always remember John II. Our thoughts are with the family.
Tammy O'Brien
October 12, 2011
I am so sorry. I remember John from when I was a little girl. I pray God gives you the strength to make it through this difficult time.
Pamela Borosque Timlin
October 12, 2011
Mr. and Mrs Kriner, We are so sorry for your loss. My family and I will always remember him fondly. Harris Acres will never be the same. He was such a sweet man. He was also a hard worker, mowing and taking pride in making the entrance of his neighborhood look beautiful. He touched so many people's lives in all the activities he participated in, we should all learn from the positive way he lived his life.
Erik Fuls
October 12, 2011
I met John through Boy Scouts (I was in Troop 44) and he demostrated all there was to be a Boy Scout and loved what he did. I know my Dad (Karl Fuls) who also recently passed away know him well.
October 12, 2011
I too knew John (then John-John) at Westerly Parkway, and again later when I volunteered with PA Special Olympics Summer Games. I'm headed off to Wood Badge in a few weeks, and will work my ticket in his memory. God Bless all who loved him; he was a shining example of what a good man (and exemplary Scout) could be.
Frank Bendik
October 11, 2011
John & Betta- John II will fondly be remembered by our family. I remember he used to regularly bless my children Bobby, Camryn, and Brady when they were younger by offering the sign of the cross with his index finger on their foreheads at church. He was a joy to talk with during coffee hours. I also remember the fun we had serving together in the Maundy Thursday plays at Grace. Blessed is John II who now comes in the name of the Lord!
-- with loving memories of your son,
The Bendik Family (Frank, Lori, Bobby, Camryn, and Brady)
Suzanne DesMarais
October 11, 2011
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Kriner,
I just happened to be visiting State College and read the CDT today. I immediately recognized John. I went to Westerly Parkway and remember him as being such a good natured person. So sorry for your loss.
Blair Lewis
October 11, 2011
John was a wonderful person who always made our Boy Scout meetings bright and cheerful. He will be so very missed, but his wonderful smile and his many memories will be remembered by all of those who were fortunate enough to know him.
Maxine Kuhn
October 11, 2011
Betta and John, we were blessed to have John in our lives. He was a caring and candid young man. You were wonderful parents. God bless you. Maxine Kuhn
Marlene Ryder
October 11, 2011
I didn't know John personally, but my parents Eugene and Lillian Myers always spoke of what a wonderful young man he was. The Kriner family exemplified all the qualities we admire most -- love, compassion, and caring.
Patti (Kuhn) Doroschenko
October 11, 2011
I have so many fond memories ot John! I think one of my favorites was when I was around 12 (1982) and my parents and I grew pumpkins in our garden. I remember dropping a few off at the house and John came running out, leaned in the car window and gave me a hug and a kiss. At that time I had really short hair and played softball. John was all worried that he had kissed a boy until I took my hat off and he realized it was me. He was such a sweet person and will be greatly missed! Love to all of you.
Linda Leedy
October 11, 2011
So sorry to hear about John,s passing . He was a very thoughfull person . John worked with us at MNMS. He was always ready to help all of us . He always had a kind word to say about everyone , He will be missed by alot of people who was touched by knowing him . My thoughts and Prayers are with you .
Astronaut John
Megan Whitehead
October 11, 2011
My experience with John was through the Scout Troop that met weekly at the Dorito Church in State College. John was faithful in his efforts to attend every scout meeting, and was always respectful in his duties as a scout. I will remember John's passion for space, and rocketships. He was a ray of light in my day. I am honored to have known him.
Marie Hamilton
October 11, 2011
Those of us who were fortunate enough to have met John are better for it. Thank you John and Betta for showing us all how to bring forth the best in others. As a result, your son was an example for us all.
Bibbue Reppert
October 11, 2011
I will always think of John as a gently man. I admired the way all three of you interacted and loved each other. God bless you and know that we all loved him. He touched so many lives. Bonnie Jessop Reppert
Mike Jewell
October 11, 2011
I met John and his family shortly after Nathan(my son with DS) was born. I was working across the street from their house, when John came up to me and asked if I could help him out. He wanted to do something nice for his dad who wasn't feeling well at the time. John wanted the flower box below the window fixed up so they could have flowers. I got the materials and built a new flower box for John. The Kriners kept in touch with us and always asked about Nathan. John was a great guy and will be missed.
Carroll Healy
October 11, 2011
John,Betta: Words cannot express my deepest sorrow for you and the world at John's passing. His smiling visage will remain in my heart forever, and I'm sure that he will be the camp director at the great scout camp. (ahota)
October 11, 2011
What a blessing John-John was to each of us. His love and enthusiasm were always genuine and heartfelt and a constant reminder of the childlike love Christ expects from each of us. Please accept my sympathies and celebration of the memories John-John left each of us!
Jen Dahlke
October 11, 2011
John came in with his dad to volunteer at the Penn State All-sports Museum. He enjoyed seeing the visitors come to see the museum and always had a smile on his face. He will be missed and I send my love and prayers out to the family.
Cortlyn Johnson
October 11, 2011
So sorry Mr. and Mrs Kriner. My prayers go to you both. John John was a wonderful guy and I am bless to have gotten to know him growing up
Louise Young
October 11, 2011
John &Betta,
My deepest condolences go out to you both. I enjoyed getting to know John. He warmed my heart. My God bring you comfort.
James Brannan
October 11, 2011
In Loving Memory of John Milton Kriner II
Dear Mr. and Mrs.Kriner,
My thoughts and prayers are with you at
this very trying and sad time in your
lives with the passing of your beloved
son.
I remember John as a young man not yet
out of high school when you all used to
frequently dine at The Nittany Lion Inn for the Sunday Buffet Dinners.
John was a most cordial, friendly, well-
mannered young man who always greeted you
with a smile on his face. He accomplished
much in his lifetime of which I'm sure the both of you are so very proud of.
My sympathy to you in the loss of someone
so very dear to your hearts. May God be
with you.
Former Banquet Manager of The Nittany
Lion Inn.
Janice Brooks
October 11, 2011
John was a joy to be around. Last time I saw you folks was in passing at the grocery store a couple years ago.
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