BRIGHTON, NY – John Ray Irvine, 69, passed away on July 19, 2023. John is predeceased by his parents, Jack and Onalee, and sister-in-law Leslee. He is survived by wife and true love, Rae; son Craig (Jessica) Troskosky; grandchildren Audrey and Chloe; sister Linda (Ross) Holmes; brother Tom (Barb) Irvine; brother-in-law William “Todd” Smeltzer and sister-in-law Jill (Alan Mulberg) Smeltzer; nieces and nephews; and loving family and friends.
During their 39-year marriage, John and Rae traveled throughout the U.S. and Europe particularly enjoying trips to Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard. The two shared adventures and loved visiting local restaurants, beaches, and historical sites.
John retired from Ultralife Corporation and worked many years for Wilson Greatbatch Ltd. He was a devout Christian and a board member of the Edgewood Church. John volunteered for Elderberry Express, giving rides to seniors, and as a youth mentor and tutor with Healthy Harvest Ministries. He was a talented musician, playing banjo and the mandolin in many bands throughout his life. John was well-known for his compassion, friendship, and infectious sense of humor. He loved to rile up children, especially his granddaughters, and cared for his loyal “show dog” Brewster and grand dog Penny. John filled every room he entered with warmth, love, and laughter.
Please send donations to National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) in John’s memory.
John’s celebration of life services will be held Saturday, July 29, 2023 at 1 p.m. at Edgewood Church, 111 East Jefferson Road, Pittsford, NY 14534. As a tribute to John, musicians bring your instrument if you’d like to jam during the desserts and coffee following the services.
So very sorry for your loss Rae. Sending loving thoughts and prayers your way. I would love to see you and share in your grief. I always marveled at your and your husband’s love. ❤️
Rae, So sorry to hear about John’s passing. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.
Rae, I am so sorry for your loss. John was a wonderful man, I remember so well the day you and he met and fell in love. We loved following his band around town! You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers . Sending you lots of love and strength to help you through this difficult time.
I’m so sorry for your loss. I only knew John through his music with Chris Mahan, and he always delighted us with his banjo picking. Please think of your fond memories of him these next very trying months and hear his music in your head and may it bring you a smile among the tears. My condolences.
I am so sorry to hear about your brother and husband’s passing. You have been in my thoughts and prayers since I heard about this.