Joseph F. Herrnkind, 68, of Johnstown, NY, passed away on Jan. 2, 2016, at Mountain Valley Hospice, with his family at his side. A graveside service will be held on Friday, June 3, 2016, at 11 a.m. in Mount Carmel Cemetery.
Joe was born December 20, 1947, to the late Jospeh F. Herrnkind Sr. and Mary Kubina. He was a graduate of Johnstown High School, where he excelled in track and field. Joe proudly served his country during the Vietnam War from 1968-1971, stationed in Alaska, where he earned his sergeant stripes and ran a crash and rescue unit in the U.S. Army. Upon his return from the service, Joe settled back in Johnstown, NY, the community he loved. He worked for 35 years at Perry Lane’s Bowling Center. His true passion was being a firefighter with the Johnstown Fire Department, rising to the rank of captain, retiring after 25 years of service.
Joe was an avid outdoorsman. He loved his hikes with best friends, Billy and Mark, as well as camping, fishing, trapping and the many trips to the Outer Banks, N.C. He is greatly missed but the memories we have, carry us through this difficult time.
Joe leaves behind his wife, Jennifer, whom he married on August 24, 2002, formerly of Johnstown; his daughter, Kristen Green of Johnstown; a son, Ryan Green of Florida; stepdaughter, Sarah Suits (Brad) of Esperance, NY; and stepson, Shayne Summerfield (Kaitlyn) of North Carolina. He also leaves behind beloved grandchildren, Devon and Brian Green, Colt Summerfield, Kaya and Caleb Suits, whom he lovingly referred to as his “little fishing buddy.” Anyone who knew Joe knew Caleb or knew of him, through various memories shared.
Relatives and friends are invited to a graveside service on Friday, June 3, 2016, at 10:30 a.m. at Mount Carmel Cemetery, Johnstown NY, with full military honors. Joe’s final care has been entrusted to Ehle and Barnett Family Funeral Home LLC. Online condolences can be made at the funeral home’s website: www.ehleandbarnett.com.
