Obituary of John A. Columbus

Newcomb: John A. Columbus, 78, of State Route 28N, passed away peacefully, Tuesday, October 8, 2013 at his home following a courageous battle with cancer with his loving family by his side. Born February 10, 1935 in Riverhead, he was the son of the late John and Mary (Latchik) Columbus. Following his graduation from Riverhead High School, John enlisted in the United States Air Force as an MP until his Honorable Discharge in 1961. Shortly after his discharge, he met Bunny Rafuse and they were wed on October 25, 1964. The couple settled in Manorville, LI where they raised their two children, Donna Marie and Kevin John. He was employed with the Town of Brookhaven Highway Department, retiring as a foreman in 1991. The family then relocated to Newcomb in the beautiful Adirondack Mountains. John began working for the Town of Newcomb with the BTI program. Besides spending time with his family, he enjoyed gardening, cruises with his family, hiking, a good scotch and a fine cigar. Besides his parents, he is predeceased by his siblings: Frank Columbus and Gladys Breitenbach. He is survived by his beloved wife of 49 years, Bunny Columbus of Newcomb; his children: Donna Marie DeLoria of Warrensburg; Kevin John Columbus and his wife, Sabrina of Gansevoort; grandchildren: Lauren Parr, 22 of East Greenbush; Aaron DeLoria, 17 of Newcomb; Justice Columbus, 7 of Gansevoort; and Greyson Columbus, 5 also of Gansevoort; his brother, Thomas Columbus and his wife, Patricia of Cortland; sister, Lori Olson and her husband, Mark of Rensselaer; along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Friends may call on John’s family from 2-4 and 7-9 pm, Friday, October 11, 2013 at the Alexander Funeral Home, 3809 Main St., Warrensburg. A funeral service to celebrate his life will be conducted 11 am, Saturday at the funeral home with Fr. Peter Berg, Pastor of St. Therese Catholic Church, officiating. Please visit www.alexanderfh.net for online guestbook, condolences and directions.