Mr. John Vanko, 97, of Duryea, passed away Friday, November 10, 2017, at the Gino J. Merli Veterans Center, Scranton.

Born in Duryea, he was the son of the late Michael and Mary Hayduk Vanko. He attended Duryea High School. He served in the United States Army during World War II as a medic and was awarded the purple heart and bronze star. Prior to his retirement, he was employed by Tobyhanna Army Depot.

John was a member of St. Michael's Byzantine Catholic Church, Pittston.

He was a member of the V.F.W. Post 1227, Duryea. John was an avid fisherman, hunter and gardener.

He was preceded in death by two brothers, George and Michael and four sisters, Mary Dushko, Helen Grala, Margaret Brojock and Anna Rupp.

Surviving are:
Sister, Eleanor Guntkowski of Duryea
Nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews

Funeral will be held on Wednesday, November 15, 2017, at 9:30 am from the Bernard J. Piontek Funeral Home Inc., 204 Main Street, with Mass of the Divine Liturgy at 10:00 am in St. Michael's Byzantine Catholic Church, 205 North Main Street, Pittston by the Rev. Gary Mensinger. Interment will be SS Peter and Paul Cemetery, Duryea. A viewing will be held on Tuesday from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the funeral home. Parastas Services will be held on Tuesday at 6:00 pm. Military Services will be conducted by the Greater Pittston AMVETS on Wednesday morning. To leave the family an online condolence, please visit the funeral home website, www.piontekfuneralhome.com.

PLEASE NOTE: YOUR ONLINE CONDOLENCE WILL NOT APPEAR UNDER THE GUESTBOOK ENTRIES UNTIL IT IS APPROVED BY THE FUNERAL HOME

Guestbook Entries

So sorry for your loss. I was John's income tax preparer for many years. We talked about his tomatoes and his garden many times

Eleanor Gaffney (about 7 years ago)

Always loved my Uncle Johnny showing me how to have a beautiful garden. Just one of his many talents. Love you.

John Brojock (about 7 years ago)

So sorry to hear about your Uncle’s passing. Sending prayers.

Roberta Battista (about 7 years ago)

Dear Rita and Mike and Michael, I'm so sorry to hear of your Uncle John's passing. God Bless him and your family. Love, Joanie

Joan Buffa (about 7 years ago)

Your gentle spirit will be missed.

Theresa & John Holmes (about 7 years ago)

We will miss you Uncle John!

Ann and Mike Salamon (about 7 years ago)

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