John Peter Shumsky Jr. peacefully passed at his home surrounded by his loved ones on August 25, 2024 in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, at the age of 77. Born on March 24, 1947, in Hudson, NY. John's love of country moved him to join the United States Navy in 1965, there he was trained as an electrician and he proudly served on the USS Mahan DLG-11 until discharge in 1969. Joining the Navy to travel and see the world, he trained in Long Beach, San Diego,  Southern California and visited several Ports of Call in the Pacific. John was a friend to everyone and a stranger to none. A family man who lived life big, he filled a room with laughter,  giving his all to his family and unselfishly to others.

Upon return from active duty, mutual friends introduced John to the love of his life Sandra (Handy, of Gloversville, NY). They quickly fell in love and married six months later on July 17, 1971, loving and laughing deeply for 53 years. John had two children Daniel (1973) and Jennifer (1975). He worked for New York State Department of Transportation as a general foreman in Hudson, NY for 35 years. Once retired, John and Sandy relocated to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina in 2003. Harboring a love for travel and camping they set out to discover our beautiful country, visiting nearly all 50 States. John and Sandy made countless friends along the way, as well as visiting family far and near.

John was a faithful man that loved spreading the word and love of Jesus as his Lord and Savior. He helped raise Trinity United Methodist Church in Hudson, NY with his "buddy" and Pastor Eric Henderson. Together they facilitated many mission trips, helping others rebuild after storms and feeding the unfortunate. John and Eric also hosted the church's youth group and established and managed The Kaleidoscope of Joy, Muppet Ministries. Selflessly putting other's needs before his own, he inspired others to laugh, smile and live life joyfully.  John enjoyed woodworking and home improvement projects, but his proudest accomplishment was raising his two children along side of his soulmate.

He is survived by his wife Sandra, his beloved and loyal pug, Buddy, his son Daniel, (partner in life) Cindy Kozel, her Children, Sherry Haddad, Richard and Ryan Kozel who he thought of as his grandchildren, and their children, Max, Kate, River, Jack and Layla. His daughter Jennifer and (son in law) Christopher Covert. Sisters Mary Anne Vieni, Kathleen Hermance and Maureen Scott. John was pre deceased by his brother Robert "Butch" Shumsky.

A  Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, October 13th, 2024, hosted by his family at Charlie and Mary Ann Vieni's home "Windloft" Route 23, Claverack NY, from the hours of 2pm-5pm. All who knew and loved him are welcome, more details forthcoming.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Mission 22and help end Veteran Suicide at https://mission22.com/give/