John Binko
John Binko
John Binko, 96, of Fredonia, NY passed away on April 18, 2025, peacefully at his home. His daughter Linda was at his side. He was born in Stockton, NY on June 4, 1928 the son of the late Stanley and Agnus (Nalepa) Binko. He was one of 12 children. The Binko family ran a successful farming business in Stockton for many years.
In the beginning of 1951, John enlisted in the Army and was sent off to fight in the Korean Conflict. While serving in the 3rd Infantry Division, Tank Company, John’s knowledge and skill as a very talented mechanic allowed him to go to Toyko for more intense training. John always spoke of times where he would volunteer for dangerous missions so that his married comrades would not be taking unnecessary risks.
During his time in Korea, John served on the front lines in active combat earning him the Combat Infantry Medal and a Purple Heart.
In 1954, he married his wife of 60 years, Veronica (Mack) Binko. Veronica predeased him in October of 2010.
Together they had Richard (Brenda Romanow) of Cheektowaga, NY, Linda Carlson (David Swanson) of Fredonia, NY, Robert (Kecia) Binko of Spencerport, NY, and Deborah (Patrick) Bennett of North Tonawanda, NY; nine grandchildren, Bradley, Kimberly (Connor) and David (Nikki) Binko, Malinda (Philip) Wolf, Shane (Kristy), Chad (Brittney) Carlson, Collin (Maggie), Joshua, and Aleigha Binko. They also had nine great-grandsons.
John was the proprietor of Binko’s Garage since 1965. He also concurrently worked at Alleghany Ludlum, later Al Tech Specialty Steel in various positions, retiring as a maintenance foreman.
He was a member of the Sheridan VFW where he served as a trustee, the American Legions of both Cassadaga, and Fredonia, and a member of the Kosciuszko Club and First Ward Falcons of Dunkirk, NY.
John was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone, and was known for his witty sense of humor.
Relatives and friends may call from 4-7 p.m. on Friday, May 30, 2025 at R. Mackowiak Funeral Home, Inc., 56 E. Doughty St. Dunkirk, NY. A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Saturday, May 31, 2025 at 10 a.m. at Blessed Mary Angela Roman Catholic Church of St. Hedwig; 105 Doughty St. Dunkirk, NY, 14048.
Internment will follow the mass at St Hedwig’s cemetery on Route 60 Dunkirk, NY.
A special thank you to Brooks Memorial Hospital, Chautauqua Co. Rehab, and Hospice Care of WNY.