John T. VanTuyl

John T. Van Tuyl (aka Pops, Mr. John)

Rochester: On Tuesday, May 31, 2022 at age 75, John went home to be with the Angels.  Predeceased by his Parents, James J. Van Tuyl and Ruth (Schwegler) Van Tuyl; brother, James M. Van Tuyl. Survived by his children, Christopher J. Van Tuyl, James J. (Amy L. Ratajczak) Van Tuyl; 6 cherished grandchildren, James Jr, Mary, Katlin, Olivia, Crystal and Austin; Companion, Louise Landry; Supportive Friend, Pete; siblings, sisters, Jean Koch, Judith (John) Ciccone; many nieces and nephews; and dear friends.

John was born in Buffalo, NY.  He attended the prestigious St. Joseph’s Collegiate Catholic Institute.  He enjoyed playing sports such as basketball and football. After graduating high school, he joined the Air Force, became a Sergeant and served in Vietnam.  He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon and Air Force Good Conduct Medal.  He was also honored with his name being added to the Veteran’s Memorial Wall located on Panel XX at the Greece Town Hall.

He took his education seriously and went on to earn his Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering.  He Retired from Eastman Kodak from Research and Development after 28 years.  His interests included being an avid hockey fan of the Buffalo Sabres and the Amerks, Buffalo Bills Football, cooking, horseshoes, wine tasting, traveling, tinkering on cars, creating budget spreadsheets, board games, playing Lotto/Mega Millions, playing slots/blackjack at the Casino, watching game shows, jumble word search and taking day trips in the country.

He was a devoted son, father, grandfather, uncle, brother and friend. He was extremely proud of his Son’s Chris and Joe and enjoyed spending time with their families. He always looked forward to texting back and forth with his sons on game night to see who would best determine the final score.  He possessed a tender heart and was supportive to his family and always put everyone ahead of his own needs.  He enjoyed helping people and was a problem solver.  He was intelligent and passionate about sharing his knowledge of life experiences with those he spoke to. He also had a special place in his heart for his cat Rudy. His quirky sense of humor was infectious and his jokes made everyone laugh. John was an amazing man, one of a kind, full of life, enthusiastic, gentle, nurturing spirit, driven with the best intentions and strong in his convictions. Throughout his health journey he remained brave, resilient, focused and carried himself with dignity and was a hero to his family. We were all blessed to have him in our lives to love and be loved by him. John touched so many people throughout his life and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

No prior calling.  His Funeral Service will be held Saturday (July 9th) 10:00 AM in the chapel of Vay-Schleich and Meeson, 1075 Long Pond Road.  Private entombment, Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The American Lung Association in his memory.