John N. Kolodziey

John N. Kolodziey, 72, of Rainbow Lake passed away peacefully on June 16, 2024.

John was born in Syracuse, NY to the late John and Joan (Phair) Kolodziey of Mattydale. He was a graduate of North Syracuse High School and Oswego State University.

He was predeceased by his wife of 45 years, Leslie (Carpenter) Kolodziey, in 2023.

He is survived by his sons John (Allison) and Craig; and granddaughters Eva, Anya, Violet, and Cecelia.

John retired from the Syracuse City School district after 33 years teaching woodworking, carpentry, and building trades at Fowler High School, Central Tech, and Sidney Johnson Vocational Center. He also had a contracting business: J Kay Remodeling. He is remembered by many as a great teacher, mentor, and friend. He would go the extra mile to help a struggling student finish strong and did all he could to help his students find a career in the trades.

In retirement, he kept busy maintaining his property, cutting firewood, fishing, cooking, and building forts in the woods for his granddaughters. His work ethic, sense of humor, and ability to make friends with anyone, anywhere, will be greatly missed.

Arrangements are in care of the Fortune-Keough Funeral Home in Saranac Lake. 

A memorial service will be held Friday, July 12th at Kreuger Funeral Home, Mattydale. Calling hours will be from 4 to 7 pm with the service immediately following. Interment will be at a later date in Assumption Cemetery, Syracuse.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in John’s name to the American Cancer Society Hope Lodge- Burlington, VT or High Peaks Hospice.