I remember with affection our year together as fellow students at SAIS Bologna so many years ago.

John, a remarkable man. So many achievements, honors and recognitions for excellence, yet so humble, unassuming and kind. We have know John for only a few years in Luther Village, but feel so fortunate to have known him and Alice, and consider them special friends. What will "New Year's Eve" be without John? We will always remember the fun eating with him and Alice at the restaurant that served "The Worlds Best Mashed Potatoes". A delightful man, he will always be remembered and greatly missed. Dear God, please grant Alice and his family comfort and peace. Jim and Nancy Robinson Luther Village,

I had the pleasure of teaching his grandsons in Lititz, PA. Mr. Kordek and his wife spoke to our third graders about his time as an ambassador. The students were so excited about the presentations that he made. He and his wife shared mementoes and experiences which added to our students' knowledge of the world. My sympathy to the family. I am so glad that I got to meet him, and I appreciated the time he gave to our students to promote their understanding of other countries and peoples of the world. He contributed much to our country. Sincerely, Beth Wade

I cherish that John could join several SAIS-Bologna '67 graduates on a Zoom reunion call in January and that beforehand he and I had a chance to reminisce via email about our trip to Yugoslavia during Christmas break in 1966. I joined the Foreign Service in part because of John’s example. My first visit ever to an American Embassy was when we visited the Embassy in Belgrade. I also recall meeting Miss Yugoslavia and the warm reception we received at the consulate in Zagreb where he had served as well. With deepest sympathy. Allen Keiswetter

Sending our condolences to Alice, John's children, grandchildren, and extended family. We know John is and will be greatly missed by all of you, by us, the Kordek family as well as many friends and those who knew him. John touched the lives and hearts of many people during his lifetime at home and in his world travels and service of country. He especially touched the lives of his family and friends. We will always hold dear the time spent at family reunions enjoying time spent with the Kordek family and have many fond memories of John, whether sharing a story, history, words of wisdom, a joke or a smile. His love of family was obvious and his love of and service to country is a great example for all. He made a positive difference in this world and always treated everyone with courtesy and respect. May he rest in peace. Michael & Sandy Racinski

Catherine, I am so sorry for your loss. Your Father was a remarkable man. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Sincerely, Lisha Esbenshade-SMith

A truly amazing man. The world is a poorer place for his loss. My sincerest condolences. Martin Lanoff, MD

We were introduced to John and Alice through the marriage of our daughter and their son nearly 25 years ago. From that time on we came to know a man of principle and character who preferred to dwell on the importance of family values and personal relationships rather than his diplomatic and academic achievements. In our conversations we often found his sense of humor and humility while relating stories about his view of life experiences. He was always very precise and left no details untold! To the Kordek family, we sympathize with your loss and know for years to come you will recall the fond memories that were left behind for you. George and Cathy Wentz

OBITUARY

Ambassador John F. Kordek (Ret.)

June 9, 1938 – February 16, 2021

Glueckert Funeral Home

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