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Welcome to the memorial page for

John David Szmaj

October 14, 2017
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Message from Maria Powers (nee Baranchuk)
December 5, 2023 9:53 PM

I'm very sorry to be so late in discovering that Johnie had passed away -- for some reason, I felt compelled to search for him online tonight to see how he was doing. My life was incredibly impacted by Johnie during the time I spent working as his Assistant at the Ormond Shop in Colonie Center Mall (Albany, NY). We couldn't have been more different from each other, but sharing our Polish heritage, and perhaps his mission to "loosen me up," forged a unique relationship that I never forgot. "Mr. Szmaj," as we had to call him (by corporate), was not only literally a towering presence, but his bold, brash, beautiful soul was always honest, fun-loving, and driven to be the best that he could be, but he never forgot to bring everyone he worked with, and his customers, along with him. My overwhelming sadness about his all-too-soon passing is tempered by the knowledge that he had found true love, and lived his life to the fullest until the end. I thank God that I was able to know him, even briefly, and will keep him in a very special place in my heart. May peace be with his family and close friends, and solace come from understanding that true love is immortal.
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A candle was lit by Shirley on July 21, 2023 10:16 AM
Message from Liz Sarver
December 22, 2021 11:33 AM

Hard to believe it's been 4 yrs. since you went to heaven. And you were such a good person, I am sure that's where you are. I miss you usually at this time of year I would get an awesome card. The year I didn't receive the card I knew something was wrong so I called Teddy. I thank you for being in my life, and the Wonderful , Great times we had. Please hold a seat for me, and look after me while I am still here. Bill and Virginia,(Vagina) are comin your way. Look after them too. Love You More Than You Ever Knew. Liz Sarver
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A candle was lit by Kelly on November 28, 2021 10:22 AM
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A candle was lit by Kelly on December 13, 2020 4:39 PM
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A candle was lit by Shirley on August 21, 2020 9:41 PM
Message from Christine
October 14, 2019 11:32 AM

Hi Johnie,

I can’t believe it’s been 2 years since you left us! I miss and love you so much!!!
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A candle was lit by Shirley on July 21, 2019 6:46 PM
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A candle was lit by Shirley on October 14, 2018 1:25 PM
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A candle was lit by Shirley on April 5, 2018 6:54 PM
Miss you every day.

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A candle was lit by Ted on February 7, 2018 5:15 AM
Message from Wil
November 9, 2017 5:13 PM

Thanks for the times my friend...... 25 years other ventures. I watched you fall in love, married the man and put him to rest. To know you are with Troy again warms my heart. Peace I love you two.
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A From the Heart was sent on November 7, 2017

Johnie will be tremendously missed. We are left with a huge hole in our hearts. Our deepest sympathy to all who loved him, as we did. Love, Debbie and Chris

Message from Ted Szmaj
November 5, 2017 6:10 AM

Thinking of you. May you rest in peace.
Message from Shirley
November 3, 2017 7:58 PM

To the Szmaj family, my deepest condolences for the loss of John. May the memories you hold dear, bring comfort to you in the days to come. John touched many hearts along his way, and he will forever be in all our hearts. Rest in peace my sweet friend.
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A candle was lit by Kelly on November 1, 2017 8:20 PM
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A candle was lit by Wil on October 31, 2017 6:52 PM
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A candle was lit by Love, Cookie and Candy on October 30, 2017 8:12 PM
Message from Pam Mathews Glass
October 29, 2017 8:10 PM

Oh John the fun and fond memories! You will be missed but so fondly remembered. To your family and friends , my deepest condolences.
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