John was a graduate of West Springfield High School. After high school he had many different careers; he owned his own service station, drove a tractor trailer as an owner operator before settling on starting an excavation services business. He moved to Athens, Alabama in the early 90’s and worked in construction for Stone & Webster Engineering ,TVA nuclear power project while he continued he own local excavation services business. After John retired, he raised and grazed beef cattle on his property. He affectionately named his cattle after his favorite Aunts which was always a source of levity to the rest of the family. John loved to read biographies and history books. He was an avid reader. John also was a good automotive mechanic and focused on restoring antique farm tractors with a special affinity for Farmall tractors.
Somehow he kept his 1976 F150 pick up truck running and on the road too. In his early years he modified a "55" Chevy sedan with a powerful engine which he frequently raced in local drag races. He also enjoyed riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle during good weather.
John was predeceased by his sister Elizabeth C. (Schlatka) Wrobleski, in 2016 and her husband Eric Wrobleski in 2021.
He leaves behind his brothers David J. Schlatka and his wife Linda of Harvard Massachusetts, Joseph J Schlatka, Jr and his wife Susan M. Schlatka of West Springfield Massachusetts, also nephews Benjamin J. Schlatka and his wife Shirley and three sons of Lexington Massachusetts, Stephen E. Wrobleski and his fiancée Margaret Bright-Ryan of Westfield Massachusetts, Joseph J.. Schlatka, III of West Springfield Massachusetts. Niece Stephanie V. (Schlatka) Andrews and her husband Anthony Andrews of West Springfield Massachusetts.
John had many cousins and extended family and loved them all, he had a very big heart and a fully developed sense of humor. He would love to tell short stories that were enjoyable to hear. He helped other people without being asked. In addition after his passing it was evident how many special relationships he made along his life’s path in Athens, Alabama.
Funeral Services will be held at Kozikowski Funeral Home in Chicopee, MA. Memorial contributions may be made to Spastic Paraplegia Foundation, 1605 Goularte Place, Fremont, CA 94539.
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