Obituary of John L. Koelbl

Mr. John L. Koelbl Jr., of Canajoharie, New York died peacefully on Friday, October 13, 2017 surrounded by his family. He was 65. Born at Lenox Hill Hospital in Manhattan, New York, he was the son of the late Lieselotte and John Koelbl Sr. In 1954 the family moved to Palatine Bridge, where he grew up with his older sister Marguerite, older brother Joe, and younger sister Lisa. John graduated from Canajoharie High School, and worked in the wholesale food service industry for several local companies including Quandts, Flickenger's and Sysco Foods for over 30 years. He spent the last 38 years of his life in his home in Canajoharie (Bunker II), where he and his former wife raised their loving daughter, Dara. John was thoroughly enjoyed and deeply loved by so many family and friends over the years and served as "the Hub" of it all. John never put himself first, and was always there to help, no matter how small or large the need. Unwaveringly patriotic and sincerely appreciative of history, he could always be found reading up on current events, watching documentaries, or touring historic battlefields and museums. He was a devout Philadelphia Eagles, Phillies, and Flyers fan - even in the face of overwhelming odds and teasing by local and deranged Giants, Yankees, and Mets fans. He will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved him. He is survived by his daughter, Dara L. Hayes and her husband Michael, of Concord, NC; two granddaughters, Claire (9) and Sophia (7); siblings, Marguerite Brandow of Gloversville, Joe Koelbl of Charlton, and Lisa Emden of Johnstown; nine nieces and nephews; grandnieces, grandnephews; and many friends. A Graveside Service will be held on Saturday, October 21, 2017 at 11a.m. at St. Peter's & Paul's Cemetery, Route 10, Canajoharie, NY. Calling hours for family and friends will be held on Friday, October 20, 2017 from 4:42p.m. until 7:00p.m. at the Lenz & Betz Funeral Home, 69 Otsego Street, Canajoharie, NY 13317. Please visit the online memorial at www.brbsfuneral.com