John A. Bentkowski

John A. Bentkowski passed away peacefully on October 5, 2023 in Ithaca, NY. John was born In
Buffalo, NY February 4, 1926 to John A. and Rose (Nykiel) Bentkowski. He was a former
parishioner at St. Casimers Parish in Buffalo. He was drafted into the Navy during WWII. Prior to
being drafted, he worked as an assembler and mechanic at the Curtis Wright Aircraft Company
developing his love for aviation and leading him to become a licensed pilot. He graduated from
SUNY Buffalo and taught high school physics. He began a career in real estate at Cornell
University in the 1970s. In the 1980s and 90s he taught as an adjunct professor in the Business
School’s at Ithaca College, Elmira College, TC3 and Corning Community College. It was during
this time that he formed Bentkowski Appraisal Associates and spent the next 35 years valuing
properties locally and throughout Central New York. John was a lifelong Democrat, lover of
classical music, opera, a good book, storytelling, and writing. He was parishioner at Immaculate
Conception Church, where he was an usher, hospitality minister, and a valued worker at the
food pantry. He is survived by his children Steven, Peter, and Elizabeth, and his grandson’s John
and Daniel. He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 65 years Catherine, and his son James.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Food Bank of the Southern Tier.

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