Charles Konecny : Obituary

Charles F. Konecny of Binghamton passed away on October 11, 2013; just 5 days shy of his 99th birthday.Charles was predeceased by his wife of 60 years, Gertrude, four sisters and a brother. He is survived by his daughter Carol James and husband Len of Ducktown, TN, daughter Mary Ferrera of La Crescenta, CA, grandchildren Michael James and wife Karen of Leesburg, VA, Cheryl Foster and husband Cade of Sweetwater, TX, Diane D’Agostin and husband John of Raleigh, NC, David Ferrera of Los Angeles, CA, Andrew Ferrera of La Crescenta, CA, Brian Ferrera and wife Sarah of Santa Monica, CA, ten great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Charles grew up in the First Ward, and first worked for Ansco Corporation, which trained him to grind precision lenses for binoculars and high-powered telescopes during World War II. He earned a degree from the State University of New York at Oswego, and became a photography teacher in the Binghamton City School District at North High School. He retired after 30 years, and then served as a substitute teacher and principal for many years. He also enjoyed meeting with friends and teaching associates at regular weekly breakfasts, and loved hosting many family gatherings at his home.

A special thanks to Cheri and Cade Foster and to Mark and Philip Zulick for their help, which enabled him to live in his home for many years.

Charles was a talented individual, photographing weddings, hanging wallpaper, painting, and gardening. He enjoyed making eight grandmother’s clocks for his children and grandchildren and a large grandfather’s clock for his home, in addition to repairing clocks for others. He was well-traveled, and particularly enjoyed his two trips to visit his many relatives in Slovakia, the birthplace of his parents.

A celebration of his life will be held from 2:00 until 5:00 PM on November 2nd at Sedlock Funeral Home, 161 Clinton Street, Binghamton. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that those who wish to commemorate his life make a donation to The Association for Vision Rehabilitation and Employment Inc., 174 Court Street, Binghamton, NY 13901.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Finch-Cochran Funeral Home in McCaysville, GA. You may send condolences to the family and sign the guest registry at www.cochranfuneralhomes.com.