John R. Bootz, Jr.

March 27, 1964 ~ October 14, 2024

John Robert Bootz, Jr, (60), of Walden, NY, passed away unexpectedly on October 14, 2024 at home.

John, affectionately known as Rod, Rodney, Bootzie, was born to John and Nancy Bootz on March 27, 1964, in Newburgh, New York.  He retired from Great Eastern Color Lithographic Corporation in Poughkeepsie where he worked most of his life.

John's loving spirit is survived by his wife, Sara; their daughter, Jordan; step daughter, Haley and fiancé Jeff; grandson, 'little buddy', light of his life, Milo who loved his 'Papa John'; his sisters Barbara of Berkeley Lake, Georgia and Dolores and her husband Alan of Coconut Creek, Florida; half sister Myra and her husband Dennis of Jacksonville, Florida, step sister Kay and her husband Jack, several nieces and nephews.

John cherished his nieces and nephews, Abby and PJ Stone and great nephew Xander, John Robert Bootz, Katie and Nick Blair and great nephew Lorenzo, Nancy Mulkey, Allan Mulkey, Jr, and Alex Powell. He is also survived by his Goddaughter Lyndsie Nosek. He especially enjoyed attending, watching, and supporting their sporting events.  His nieces and nephews adored their uncle and will forever miss him.  He was special to his extended family and many close friends.

For more than 40 years, he served with Winona Lake Engine Company 2 where he made countless friends and touched the lives of many. He held various leadership roles over the years including President and was a member of the Hudson Valley Red Vests.  John bowled in the Mid-Hudson Fireman's bowling league at Tarsio lanes and was long time Secretary of the league.  His dedication to firefighting and community service was matched only by his passion for his family, friends, and sports (bowling, NY Mets, NY Giants, women's basketball, NASCAR).

Visitation will be held at Brooks Funeral Home on Friday, October 18 from 3 - 7 PM, with a Firematic service taking place at 6 PM.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Winona Lake Firehouse, 160 S Plank Road, Newburgh,  12550.