Obituary of John W. Korte, Jr.

John W. Korte, Jr. of West Stockbridge, MA  died peacefully April 3, 2024 at home, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born October 23, 1925, the son of John W. Korte, Sr. and Marjorie Rushbrook. He attended local schools, and graduated from the former Williams High School in Stockbridge with the class of 1943. A communicant of St. Patrick’s Church, he married his wife Angelina Dioli on May 8, 1948. In May 2023, they celebrated their 75th wedding anniversary.

A veteran of World War II, he served in the Army from January 1944 to March 1946. He served with 45th Division in Germany and Southern France. He was wounded two days after his 19th birthday at St. Helena, France and recuperated for five months at a hospital in France. He recieved the Purple Heart, European Theater Ribbon with two Bronze Stars, a World War II Victory Medal, and a Combat Infantry Badge. He was a patriot who loved his country. He was an active member of American Legion Post 254 for 77 years, and a lifelong member of the Disabled American Veterans.

He owned and operated the Korte Plumbing & Heating business until his retirement in 1987. He and Ang spent winters in Daytona Beach, Florida for 40 years. He enjoyed all sports, playing cards, and bowling.

His greatest joy was spending time with his family, especially grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his wife Angelina on August 11, 2023. He was survived by his children, John (Ruby), Frances Premerlani (Larry), William (Lisa), Margaret (Stephen). He was predeceased by his son Michael in 1979.

He is also survived by his six grandsons, Brian, Matthew, Daniel, Jason, Darrin, Michael, as well as 10 great-grandchildren Taran, Haley, Hannah, Sam, Cara, Will, Christian, Josie, Ethan and Mark.

He also leaves his sisters Catherine Kilmer and Mary Kinmond and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sisters Sarah Korte, Marjorie Carver, and his brothers Arthur, Robert, and William.

The family wishes to extend a special thanks to Karen Slavinski and Kathy Korte for their love and support for Dad.

In keeping with Dad’s wishes, there will be no calling hours. There will be a Graveside Committal Service with Military Honors followed by burial in St. Patrick’s Cemetery on Thursday, April 11, 2024 at 10:30AM.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy can be made to Elder Services of Berkshire County Meals on Wheels Program in care of Birches-Roy Funeral Home, 33 South St., Great Barrington, MA 01230. Condolences may be made through birchesroyfuneralservices.com.