In Loving Memory
John Krajnik


Obituary



John Krajnik, a beloved father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 21, 2025, at the age of 93. Born on July 9, 1932, in Helvetia, Pennsylvania, he was the son of Michael and Martha Krajnik. Growing up during the Great Depression, John learned early the values of resilience, resourcefulness, and humility—qualities that would define his entire life. At age eleven, he faced the heartbreaking loss of his father, an event that strengthened the bond he shared with his mother and siblings.

John attended Academy High School in Erie, Pennsylvania, where he developed the quiet determination and work ethic that would carry him through adulthood. During the Korean War, John served from 1936 to 1939, mastering the art of teaching and instructing soldiers the skills require to repair and maintain U.S, Army tanks in the field.

He went on to spend 35 dedicated years at the General Electric Corporation, retiring in 1996. Throughout his career, John contributed to major industrial and aeronautical projects, including the design of a refrigerator manufacturing assembly line and cockpit controls for advanced aircraft such as the X-15 and the XP-70 Valkyrie. His skill, steady hands, and meticulous mind made him a respected and valued colleague.

John often shared how much he loved to dance, and it was during an evening of wonderful Big Band Music at The Lake Erie Supper Club that he met the love of his life, Nancy Tocharchick. Both gifted dancers, they filled their lives with rhythm and joy, sharing countless nights at some of their favorite places, including The Greek Slovak Club and The Rainbow Gardens at Waldameer. John and Nancy were married on January 18, 1966, beginning a union built on love, dedication, and family. Nancy brought three wonderful daughters into their marriage—Jennie, Wanda, and Christine—and together they welcomed one son, John Michael. Their blended family became a source of pride, warmth, and enduring love throughout John’s life.

A pivotal moment in John’s life occurred on August 8, 2015, at the age of 83 years old, he dedicated his life to Jehovah. His faith became a source of joy, structure, and purpose. After the passing of his beloved wife, Nancy, in 2011, John made a heartfelt promise to continue his Bible study—one he faithfully honored. His meeting attendance was consistent and heartfelt, and he cherished his service work. His warmth and sincerity drew others to him. John’s congregation remembers him for his kindness, gentle humor, warm smile and unwavering desire to live in a way that honored Jehovah.

John was an avid reader. He also was a collector of stamps, coins and model cars. He loved spending time playing billiards and bowling, always aiming with steady focus and precision in both games.

John was preceded in death by his wife, Nancy, and by four brothers George, Nicholas, Andrew and Michael and sisters Mary and Ann. He is survived by his Son, John Michael and Daughter-in-Law, Anita. Their son: John Michael II,(step-grandchildren)Josilyn Tripp, Alisa Tripp, Jonathan Tripp, Aaron Tripp,Jessica Tripp. His Daughters by marriage, Jennie, (her two children) Cara and Bar-Langdon, Wanda and her husband James Petrak,(their two children) Ben and Holly and Christine and her husband, Glen Czapski. John leaves one sister, Helen, residing in Erie, Pennsylvania, who continues to lovingly preserve his memory. His family will forever remember him as a steady presence—patient, supportive, thoughtful, and deeply loving.

To those who knew him, John leaves behind a legacy of faith, integrity, and quiet strength. Though he will be deeply missed, his memory remains as a source of comfort and inspiration as does the hope he cherished of Jehovah’s promised resurrection.

May his memory continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.