John Anthony Kogut

BRANCHPORT - John Kogut passed away on Saturday, Dec. 22, at his home in Branchport, surrounded by his family. John, the son of Rose and John Kogut, grew up in Lackawanna with his older brother Mike and younger sister Tina.

Throughout his life, John enjoyed hunting and spending time in the outdoors. For several summers, he was the rifle range director at Woodcraft Camp in the Adirondacks. John attended the University of Buffalo (SUNY/AB South), graduating in 1965 with a Degree in Pharmacy. He later earned his MBA from Syracuse University.

Following college, John became an officer in the US Army, attaining the

rank of Captain. John began his business career as a pharmacist working his way up to becoming President of the Fay's Drug Division and principal owner at CHSI. He was also a member of the NY State Board of Pharmacy. He put his heart into his work, pioneering the development of retail pharmacy as we know it today.

About six years ago, John switched gears to spend more time with his family and friends and to pursue his dreams as a deer hunter, golfer, skier, and gentleman farmer (buckwheat to attract the deer).

John is survived by his wife Debbie, the love of his life; his brother Mike and wife Marilyn; and his sister Tina and husband Joe Metzger. He was a great father and will be sorely missed by his children: Kimberly and Lindsey Hart; Kathy Kogut; Bob and Melinda Kogut; Dave and Chris Kogut; and grandchildren, Kate and Gretchen Kogut. John will also be missed by his longtime friends Rich, Ralph, Kandy, Father Emil and many others.

John Kogut was a man who always looked out for his friends and took care of his family. His zest for life, loyalty, and sense of humor (bad jokes, mostly) will not be forgotten.

Friends and family may call at Fagan's Funeral Home, 31 W. Morris St., Bath, on Jan. 12, from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. with a Memorial Mass to follow at 2 p.m. at St. Mary's Church, 32 E. Morris St., Bath, with Rev. Emil Swiatek, Celebrant. Flowers are gratefully declined. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in John Kogut's name to Camp Good Days, 1332 Pittsford-Mendon Rd., PO Box 665, Mendon, NY 14506 or at www.campgooddays.org.