John W. York, a life-long resident of Ithaca, died peacefully on June 14, 2015, after a four month battle with lung cancer.
He was born on January 11, 1946, the third son of the late Oliver M. and Ruth Walker York. A 1963 graduate of Ithaca High School, he went on to receive an AA from Corning Community College and a BA from Ricker College in Maine. He was employed at Wilson Lab at Cornell University for over 30 years.
Every summer of his formative years was spent in Maine at the Appalachian Mountain Club Camp. It was there, as a teenager, he served as a waiter and later became Assistant Manager. Maine always continued to be an important part of his life.
He had a passion for collecting timepieces and had amassed a sizable collection of historical replications. He was also a ham radio enthusiast who enjoyed travelling to ham fests in the area. In addition, he was a member of the Masonic Order and the Enfield Valley Grange.
He is survived by his brother, Robert M. and his wife, JoAnne York of Niskayuna, NY; their children, Kimberly Eke, and Jared York; and his step-daughter, Elizabeth Allen of Bradford, PA. He was predeceased by his brother, Richard O. York in 1967. A memorial service will be held in Maine at the convenience of the family. Contributions in John’s memory may be made to Hospicare; 172 E. King Rd., Ithaca, NY 14850
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