John Petras Jr. 95, passed away on January 4, 2026, with his wife of 71 years by his side. He was predeceased by his daughter, Susan Singer, his parents, John and Susan Petras, and five siblings. He is survived by his wife, Irma; sons, John M. Petras and James (Leigh) Petras; grandchildren, Alicia (Chris) Bracco, Daniel Singer, and James, Natalie and Allison Petras; great-grandson, Croix Bracco; brother, Edward (Carol) Petras; special niece, Marlene Boedecker and many nieces and nephews.

John graduated from Binghamton High School, lettering in baseball and volleyball. He also graduated from the University of Missouri Finance School, first in his class, while serving in the US Air Force during the Korean War. John was a member of the NYS Baseball Umpires Association, Endicott Chapter for 29 years. He especially enjoyed umpiring girls and senior men’s softball games. He belonged to the NYS Covered Bridge Society and loved hunting down bridges for Irma to photograph. He was an active  member of St. Michael’s Orthodox Church having served several terms as it’s comptroller, singing in their choir, and cutting out pirohi circles for their annual pirohi sales.  John was a die-hard fan of the New York Yankees and attended many games at Yankee Stadium. He never passed up a piece of lemon meringue pie. He was good with his hands and enjoyed spending time building and fixing things around his home.

A big thank you to the staff at Willow Point Nursing Home for taking such good care of him. Arrangements are through the Chopyak-Scheider Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Michael’s Orthodox Church, 296 Clinton Street, Binghamton, NY 13905 or to the charity of one’s choice.