John R. Straka

of Newark Valley

"When someone you love becomes a memory....the memory becomes a treasure."

Our dear son, brother, grandson and nephew, John Straka, born on January 22, 1987 left us suddenly and unexpectedly on February 21, 2010. John is survived by his parents, Russell J. and Teresa A. (Conway) Straka; his sister, Alicia Straka; his grandparents, Viola Straka and Bobby Conway; numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. He was predeceased by his grandparents, John Straka and Betty Conway. John had attended Newark Valley High School and was a former employee of Amphenol in Sidney. He had a passion for all music, from the 60's to present day rock, and loved to "hang out" with his many friends and play his electric guitar. He also enjoyed snowboarding and a sharing a good laugh. He will be greatly missed by all those who knew him as well as by his dog, Tank.

Family and friends are invited to attend a period of visitation and sharing of memories of John on Thursday from 1-3 p.m. at the MacPherson Funeral Home, 5 Whig St., Newark Valley. A funeral service and celebration of John's life will follow at 3 p.m. Rev. James Willard will officiate. Burial will be in Glenwood Cemetery, Afton in the spring. Friends are also invited to come to the family home following the service. Those wishing to honor John's memory with a memorial contribution are asked to kindly consider Stray Haven, 194 Shepard Rd., Waverly, NY 14892, in loving memory of John R. Straka. Please share your memories and condolences to the family at www.macphersonfuneralhome.com