John J. Racoski, 81, of Niagara Falls, NY died on Sunday March 13, 2011 at Our Lady of Peace Nursing Care Residence in Lewiston, NY. Born in Detroit, MI he was the son of the late John and Frances (Skelendz) Racoski.

John moved to the Scranton, PA area at an early age with his family and graduated from Pittston High School in 1947. While living in Pennsylvania he worked as a coal miner prior to moving to Buffalo, NY where he worked for the Catholic School System. He was later employed at Bethlehem Steel in Lackawanna, NY until his retirement. On August 21, 1965 he married Jill M. (Maringer) Racoski in Amherst, NY. Mrs. Racoski predeceased him on February 6, 2005. John enjoyed collecting unique timepieces, watches and clocks. He also liked to socialize at the Sunshine Café in Niagara Falls, NY; and always enjoyed his daily nap.

Mr. Racoski is survived by one daughter Barbara F. (David J.) Rhinehardt of Niagara Falls, NY; one grandson Christopher D. Rhinehardt and one cousin Theresa (Daniel) Hollman of New York City.

Friends may call on Wednesday from 2 – 4 and 7 – 8:30 p.m. at the M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY where a funeral service will follow at 8:30 p.m. with Rev. Duane Klizek officiating.