John Edward "Jack" Croak Obituary (1950 - 2012)

John "Jack" E. Croak lost his courageous battle against malignant melanoma on July 15, 2012 at Corning Hospital. Jack was born on September 24, 1950 to Robert and Helen Croak. He was predeceased by his parents. Surviving him is his wife of 39 years Bev, and daughter Alycia (Brian) Meahl of Lockport, NY; two cherished granddaughters, Kaitlyn and Bethany who filled his heart with love and put a sparkle in his eyes. Also survived by his sister Mary (Jim) Burden of Haymarket, VA. There are also many nieces and nephews who will greatly miss their Uncle Jack. Jack graduated from Corning Painted Post East High School. He was employed at Corning Inc. for 26 years in the positions of glass mechanic and engineering technician. Jack was an avid hunter and fisherman. He was a life-time member of the NRA and the Painted Post Field & Stream Club where he served as president and board member for several terms. He was also a member of the Varmint Shooters Association and enjoyed several trips to South Dakota to hunt prairie dogs. He treasured a special gift from his daughter of matching tattoos that displayed the shamrock and their Irish decent. From childhood into present day, he spent many vacations on Keuka lake sharing special moments in the company of "triplet cousins", Ellen Reilly and Steve Densberger. Jack displayed great perseverance and determination following an automobile accident in 1988. Despite his disability, he returned to an active life. He loved NASCAR, John Wayne movies and Louie L'Amour novels. Calling hours will be held on Friday, July 20, 2012 from 10 AM until Noon at Haughey Funeral Home, 216 E. First Street in Corning where funeral services will follow at Noon. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to the Corning Salvation Army, 32, Denison Parkway, Corning, or to the Guthrie Cancer Center, 114 Columbia Street, Corning, NY 14830.