John Walter Achtyl

John Walter Achtyl, 72, passed away Tuesday, January 10, 2023 at his home in Weatherford. Rosary: 10:30 a.m. Thursday, January 19, 2023 at St. Stephen Catholic Church, 1802 Bethel Rd., Weatherford, with the Knights of Columbus officiating. Memorial Mass: 11:00 a.m. Thursday, January 19, 2023, St. Stephen Catholic Church. John was born February 1, 1950 in Buffalo, NY, son of Adolf Anthony and Alice (Borowinski) Achtyl. He proudly and bravely served his county in the United States Army National Guard for over 14 years. John met the love of his life, Leona April Rutko, and they were married on April 29, 1972. They would go on to spend 50 happy years together raising their family. For over 40 years, John worked for the National Fuel and Gas Company. He retired in 2008, and he and April moved to Weatherford from Buffalo, NY. John loved gardening and he had a love for birds. He would study birds and even track their migration through the banding process. He also loved to travel. John and April were active members of St. Stephen Catholic Church, where he was heavily involved in the Knights of Columbus. He served in multiple capacities over the years, including Financial Secretary and Grand Knight. John is preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include his loving wife, Leona April Achtyl; daughters, Theresa Hubbard (Robert) and Alice Gillham (Michael); grandchildren, Katherine, Samantha, Megan, Thomas, and Makayla; brother, Anthony Achtyl; sisters, Barbara Bernat and Mary Jane Pszczolkowski; numerous nieces and nephews; and a host of other family members and friends.