John "Jack" J. McCormack

John “Jack” J. McCormack

Age 83, of Burdett, NY, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2026.

Jack was born on October 30, 1942, in Bayshore, New York, the son of John and Gertrude McCormack.

Jack proudly served his country in the United States Coast Guard from 1966 to 1970, exemplifying honor, dedication, and courage. In 1969, he married the love of his life, Harriet Miller, and together they shared an extraordinary 57 years of marriage filled with devotion, partnership, and unwavering love.

Jack’s legacy lives on through his beloved wife, Harriet; his son, Shaun (Kristi) McCormack of Burdett; his brother, Michael (Martha) McCormack of Dallas, TX; his cousin, Anne (Erwin) Dejoseph; and his cherished granddaughter, Eleanor Rae McCormack.

A passionate mentor and educator, Jack shared his knowledge and love for mechanics as a teacher at BOCES Ithaca, inspiring countless students throughout his career. His dedication extended far beyond the classroom as a proud member of the Valois-Logan-Hector Volunteer Fire Company, where he served his community with selflessness and pride.

Jack’s passions were as rich and vibrant as the life he lived. He had a deep love for farming, finding peace and purpose in working the land and embracing the rhythms of rural life. He was also an avid supporter of the local wineries of the Finger Lakes region, where he enjoyed not only the craft of winemaking but the community and beauty that surrounded it. A skilled sailor who cherished time on the open water and an admirer of classic cars, Jack also found simple joy in sharing a good glass of wine with family and friends. His warmth, wisdom, and zest for life left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Jack’s life at Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., in Watkins Glen on Friday, March 27, from 3:00 to 5:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 5:00 PM. A burial with full military honors will take place at Glenwood Cemetery on Saturday, March 28, at 10:00 AM. Attendance at the cemetery service will be limited to family and close friends.

In memory of Jack’s enduring commitment to service and community, memorial donations may be made to the Valois-Logan-Hector Volunteer Fire Company, 5736 NY-414, Hector, NY 14841, or online at www.HectorFire.com.

Condolences may be shared with the family in the online guestbook at www.RoyceChedzoy.com.

Jack McCormack’s life was a shining example of dedication, love, and passion—an inspiring legacy that will forever live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege to know him.