Anthony R. Kunko Jr. of Portage passed away Sunday at the age of 99. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of almost 70 years, Susan Osipov Kunko, as well as his parents, Anthony R. Kunko and Mary (Chervenak), as well as his brother Thomas. “Tony” was the beloved father of Christine Jordanoff (Alan Hoover),Elaine, and Richard (Deborah); devoted grandfather of Iliya (Katie) and Greg Jordanoff, Allison Wenger (Scott), Stephanie Fisher (Mitch), Andrew (fiancé Stephanie) step-grandfather of Nick Jordanoff (Stacy), Melissa Troutman (Scott), Brad Hoover (Dawn Kitko); adoring great grandfather of Lilyana and Charlie Jordanoff, Rebecca and Megan Wenger, step-grandchildren Amanda Jordanoff, Sam, Luke, Toby and Clara Troutman. He is also survived by his loving sister, Alice Kunko, who provided care and support for him especially in his later years, and brothers Leonard (Jeanne) and Robert (Gayle), plus numerous nieces and nephews who played important roles to their favorite “Uncle Bud.” His life was enriched by many who knew and loved him, especially long-time generous neighbors.
He was especially proud of his WW II service as a member of the 456th Bomb Group, 745th Squadron, of the Army Air Corps where he was a gunner in a B-24. His story was the subject of newspaper features and he was honored by the Portage Area School District.
He was employed for 35 years at US Steel, and one of the first to get involved in computerized machinery in the Johnstown works.
He played many roles in his church, including singing in the men’s choir, the mixed choir, membership in the Nocturnal Adoration Society, Holy Name Society, building fund committee for the former St. Joseph’s Church, serving as Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, and numerous other church activities. He was fervent in his own devotion to his Catholic faith and instilled that in his family.
Next to his family and the church was his love of cars. He was an active member of the Buick Club of America, the Altoona chapter, Portage Area Car Cruisers, and took great pleasure in restoring several classic cars that were often featured in Portage parades.
Arrangements will be handled by Matthew R. Decort Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 532 Main Street in Portage. Viewing is Wednesday, October 30th from 2:00-4:00 p.m. and 6:00-8:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Holy Family Church, Portage, on Thursday, October 31st at 11:00 a.m. Interment is St. Mary’s Cemetery, Portage. Graveside military rites by the Portage Ritual Team.
Previous Events
Visitation
30
Oct
532 Main Street
Portage, PA 15946
Visitation
30
Oct
532 Main Street
Portage, PA 15946
Visitation
31
Oct
509 Caldwell Avenue
Portage, PA 15946
Cemetery Details
Location
Cemetery Road
Portage, PA 15946
