George A. Zurko

George A. Zurko,

Newark Valley, NY

George A. Zurko, 81, a longtime resident of Newark Valley, passed away peacefully on December 16, 2024, surrounded by his family. Born on June 21, 1943, in Throop, Pennsylvania, George was the son of George B. and Helen (Yanek) Zurko.

George will be dearly missed by his beloved wife Sharon (Estes) Zurko, who he shared 56 years of marriage with, his daughter Susan (Mark) Davies, and his loving grandsons Jacob and Ryan Durgala. He also leaves behind his brother and sister-in-law Robert (Elaine) Zurko and his sister and brother-in-law Monica (Jim) Schearer, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Following his graduation from Throop High School in 1961, he answered the call of duty and enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving his country with distinction as a Radar Repairman from 1961 to 1965. After his honorable discharge from the military, George embarked on a successful career as a field engineer with IBM Glendale, where he applied his meticulous attention to detail and problem-solving skills.

George's interests were as diverse as they were intricate. With skilled hands and a creative mind, he took pleasure in working on model trains, immersing himself in the minute details that brought his miniature worlds to life. His passion for woodworking allowed him to craft beautiful pieces that served as a testament to his patience and craftsmanship. An enthusiast of electronics and computers, George was always keen to explore the latest technological advancements, often merging his love for tradition with the possibilities of the future.

Described by those who knew him as loving and handy, George's legacy is one of love, service, and skill. His ability to fix and create was matched only by his capacity to cherish and nurture the relationships in his life. Friends, family, and acquaintances were all touched by his warmth and generosity, and he will be remembered for the quiet strength and support he provided to all who were fortunate enough to cross his path.

In George’s spare time he loved traveling, often by train. He and Sharon traveled all over the country from the west coast and back, notably travelling by bus to Nova Scotia, Canada.

George's departure leaves a void in the hearts of those who loved him, yet they take comfort in the knowledge that his life was a tapestry woven with joy, dedication, and unwavering kindness. His memory will continue to inspire and guide us, reminding us of the beauty in the world he so skillfully crafted with his hands and heart.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 21, 2024 at Most Holy Rosary Church in Maine, NY, with his Pastor, Rev. Clarence Rumble, officiating. A period of visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. George will be laid to rest at 12:00 noon on Monday at Calvary Cemetery in Johnson City, where military honors and committal prayers will be accorded. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution to Mercy House of the Southern Tier, 212 N. McKinley Ave., Endicott, NY 13760 or to the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network (BCAN) ,4520 East West Highway, Suite 610, Bethesda, MD 20814. Memories and condolences can be shared in George’s online guest book at www.macphersonfh.com

In honoring George A. Zurko's memory, we celebrate a life well-lived, one that has left an indelible mark on the fabric of our community and the lives he so positively influenced. His journey may have come to a close, but the stories of his love and handiwork will resonate for generations to come. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Dean, Dr. Stonier, Dr. Vitellas, 1-Ross at Lourdes Hospital, and Mercy House of the Southern Tier for compassionate care during this time.