Obituary of John M. Halko

John Mark Halko, 56, of Syracuse, passed suddenly Wednesday at Upstate University Hospital at Community. His big heart, compassion, generosity for others and humor that abounded in every situation will be missed by his family and loved ones.

John was born in Utica, on February 10, 1962. He graduated from New York Mills High School and attended Mohawk Valley Community College. He was the owner and president of SERVPRO of North and East Onondaga County and Oswego County, a fire and water damage restoration company, for over 25 years. He was an avid sports fan with a love for Syracuse University athletics and the Greenbay Packers. As a KISS fanatic, he enjoyed attending concerts and following their musical journey. His other passions in life included traveling and Mickey Mouse.

John is predeceased by his mother, Trudy (Zalewski) Halko, his brother, Mark John Halko, mother in law, Eleanor (Miceli) Balch, and sister in law, Patricia Balch-Liepke.

Survivors: his beloved wife, Kathleen (Balch) Halko; his daughter Kara (Ryan) Zarnowski; his son, Joshua (Edward Przybylski) Halko; his father, John P. Halko; his brother, Paul (Barbara) Halko; father in law, Sewell Balch Jr; brothers in law, Michael (Marilou) Balch, Thomas (Laurie) Balch, and Andrew (Dan) Balch. He is also survived by his cherished dog Angus, his granddaughters, Isabella and Paityn, his nephews, nieces, great nephews, great nieces, extended family and lifelong friends.

John fought valiantly, enduring a bone marrow transplant and overcoming Leukemia four years ago. His strength, selfless nature, witty personality and love of family will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. May his soul rock and roll all night and party every day with the angels in heaven.

Services: 11 am Wednesday at Our Lady of Hope, 4845 South Salina St., Syracuse. Burial will follow in Valley Cemetery. Calling hours will be 4 to 7 pm on Tuesday at Tindall Funeral Home, 1921 W. Genesee St., Syracuse.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can made in his memory to the Make-A-Wish Central New York Foundation, 5005 Campuswood Drive, East Syracuse, New York 13057.