John D. "Pete" Runkle, Sr, 85, of Town of Niagara, NY passed away Monday October 26, 2009 at Mt. St. Mary's Hospital in Lewiston, NY. Born in Bellefonte, PA he was the son of the late William and Mary Runkle.

During World War II, Mr. Runkle served as a corporal in the United States Army from August 5, 1942 until his honorable discharge on January 4, 1946, and while serving our country saw conflict in Europe and North Africa. John was awarded the American Campaign Medal, European- African- Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, World War II Victory Medal, Army of Occupation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Honorable Service Lapel Pin. Always ready to help those in need, John later served a second tour of duty.

John came to the Niagara Falls area in the 1950's and on September 28, 1963 married Sandra Kay (Best) Runkle.
He worked at the former Trapasso's Store and later drove taxi for the former Brews Taxi, both in Niagara Falls, NY. John was employed as a truck driver for over 30 years with the City of Niagara Falls Department of Public Works, and retired in 1987. Mr. Runkle enjoyed hunting, fishing, and tinkering with small engine repairs. Known in his neighborhood as "Mr. Fix It", John was always willing to help a neighbor; whether solving a home improvement issue, mowing lawns, or snow blowing sidewalks.

John was predeceased by his wife, Sandra Kay Runkle, and son, John D. (Kelly of Niagara Falls, NY) Runkle, Jr.. Survivors include his children Clivia Runkle, Thomas Runkle both of Germany, James (Josephine) Runkle, Judi Runkle both of Town of Niagara, Jackie (Chuck) Young of Town of Wilson; five grandchildren Christi (Chris) Bodenstein, John Runkle, Kevin Runkle, Kimberly Runkle, and Abigail Young; one great-granddaughter Victoria Bodenstein, and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother William F. Runkle; and four sisters, Louise Ebbert, Janet Lonenberger, Caroline (late Ross) Olfano, and Mary Ellen Runkle.

Friends may call Thursday 2 – 4 & 6 – 8 p.m. at the M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY ROAD NIAGARA FALLS, NY where a funeral service with military honors will be held following the visitation at 8 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Niagara Hospice, 4675 Sunset Drive, Lockport, NY 14094.