Obituary of John Runkle

John R. Runkle Allegany, NY John R. Runkle of Allegany passed away Wednesday (July 9, 2014) at Roswell Park Cancer Institute in Buffalo after a long illness. Born December 13, 1935 in Pottsville, PA he was the son of Ralph and Frances McGovern Runkle. He was married to Marjorie J. Cricks who survives. Mr. Runkle studied at Penn State University and served in the ROTC program from 1953 to 1955. He then served for three years for the Corp of Engineers at Fort Belvoir, VA. From 1958 -1961 he served active duty with the US Army where part of his service was to help build a bridge over the Potomac River in Virginia. His last employment before retirement was as an independent inspector for Oil and Gas Services. He enjoyed model railroading at his home and was very skilled at woodworking. He also took great pride in maintaining his property and keeping an immaculate lawn. He was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church in Allegany and he and his wife liked traveling to different parts of the country. Surviving besides his wife are 3 children Ron, Cindy and Gary; 3 stepchildren Michael (Debbie) Nickola, Michele Nickola and Jeannie Nickola; 11 step grandchildren and 20 step great grandchildren. In addition to his parents he was predeceased by a special uncle Joseph McGovern. Friends will be received at the Casey, Halwig & Hartle Funeral Home 3128 W. State Rd. Olean on Saturday (July 12, 2014) from 2-4pm where a memorial service will be held at 4pm. Rev. Derek Cheek will officiate. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Elm and Carlton Sts. Buffalo, NY 14263. Online condolences may be expressed at oleanfuneralhome.com.