BAINBRIDGE - On April 8 John W. Sterchak lost his three-year battle with a rare form of cancer. John was born May 4, 1955 to William T. and Clare (Sherosick) Sterchak at The Hospital, Sidney. He married Barbara J. Carpenter on June 21, 1975. They were two months short of celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary.

John graduated from Sidney Central School, class of 1973 and served in the US Navy. He also graduated from the toolmaker apprentice program at Bendix and later from SUNY Oneonta with a degree in teaching.

Music was a big part of his life. He played French horn with many area groups over the years. He particularly enjoyed repairing old horns to donate to fellow musicians.

He loved bringing his old MG's back to life to see them running once more. He and Barb went many a mile exploring the Catskills in one or another of his beloved little sports cars. For 30 years John served as the caretaker of Yaleville Cemetery when he wasn't busy engaging in one of his other many hobbies.

He is survived by wife Barbara; sons Nicholas (Chris), Stanley (Olga), Stephen and Lacey Rinker, and Peter (Colleen); granddaughters, Brooksana and Samantha; step-grandchildren, Meghan, Lily, John, Tobias, Gabby and Lada; Mother, Clare Sterchak; siblings: Bill, Bob, Mary and Barbara; two uncles and an aunt, as well as cousins, nieces, nephews and in-laws.

A family burial will be held at a later date at Yaleville Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family suggests that donations to the Yaleville Cemetery Association c/o Crystal Ives, 1303 Cty Hwy 38, Bainbridge, NY 13733.

The family would especially like to thank Lacey Rinker, RN for making his last days so comfortable.

Share condolences and memories online at www.landersfh.com.