John Alan Volker

John Alan Volker

Elmira - John A. Volker, 73, died unexpectedly October 2, 2023, at Arnot Ogden Memorial Hospital with family by his side. He was born April 4, 1950 in Ossining, NY, the son of Donald C. Volker and Vera (Arnold) Volker.

John graduated from Southside High School, Class of 1968, pitching 3 years on the Varsity Baseball Team. He went on to earn his Associate's Degree in Business from Corning Community College. After graduation he enlisted with the U.S. Navy to serve 2 years active duty during the Vietnam War and two additional years in the Naval Reserves. He studied at the University of Brockport and graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, in addition to acquiring the distinction of “Captain” of ceremonies.

In late December of 1973, a lovely woman caught his eye from across a popular home-town pub. By enlisting the help of a mutual friend and one reluctant blind date later, Miss Darla Rice was destined to become Mrs. John Volker. The two celebrated 44 years of marriage on September 8th.

John went on to work 30 years for the NYS Department of Corrections.  He earned his promotion to Corrections Sergeant in Elmira in 1987 and served as head of the Grievance Committee. His decisions, fair and just, earned him positive renown throughout upstate.

John enjoyed picnics, gardening, fishing, and bowling. His flair for sarcasm and down-to-earth musings could be enjoyed anywhere over a cold beverage.  His endless love of the sea brought him to the shores of Cape Hatteras, NC and Ocean City, MD many times over with family and friends.

He was an avid sports fan of the Buffalo Bills and the New York Yankees. Following in his father's footsteps, he became a well- seasoned baseball pitcher and played on several local leagues throughout his lifetime.  He was a member of the Elmira Heights American Legion Post 154.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by brother-in law Rosario Cardinale and nephew James Cardinale.

Surviving in addition to his wife, Darla (Rice) Volker are his daughter Traci Volker and her partner,  Aaron, of Buffalo; step-son Scott Brown and wife, Dawn, of Painted Post;  sister Laurene Cardinale of Elmira;  brother Gary Volker and wife, Rose, of Rochester; sister-in law Karen Hall and husband, Dayton, of Erin; brother-in law Gary Rice and wife, Maureen, of Pine City; and many nieces and nephews.

A special thanks to the 3rd  Floor staff and nurses of the Chemung County Nursing Facility for providing John with such dedicated care and kindness.

A memorial service will be held 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 14 at St. Mary's Church in Elmira.

Interment will be at St. Peter and Paul's  Cemetery directly following mass.

Arrangements by Olthof Funeral Home.

Those wishing to remember John may donate to the

Dementia Society of America

dementiasociety.charityproud.org

PO Box 600, Doylestown, PA 18901

Or plant a tree as a living memorial in honor of John A. Volker.

alivingtribute.org