Joseph Steve Krompacky, 91, of Fernwood died Tuesday, Dec. 4, 2012 at his residence. He was born Dec. 1, 1921, a son of the late James and Mary (Fudrow) Krompacky.
He served in the CCC from 1938-1940 and enlisted in the U.S. Navy from 1943-1945.
He served in the U.S. Army from 1945-1967. While in the Army, he was a paratrooper and a general’s aide. He was awarded the Master Parachutist Badge,
Expert Carbine Badge, National Service Medal, several Good Conduct Medals and a special citation for work in Ethiopia. He received a Shellback certificate for crossing the equator when he was stationed aboard the USS Wichita.
After retiring from the military, he worked and retired from the Moshannon Valley School District. He also worked at the Zazworsky Greenhouse in Viola and was an avid hunter and gardener.
He’s survived by two brothers, Frank Krompacky of Clearfield and William Krompacky of Fernwood and six nieces and three nephews.
He’s also survived by his second family, the family of the late General Emil P. Eschenburg, including the general’s wife, Betty and their children, Paula Scott and Lisa Harrison, both of Butte, MT; Paul “Rocky” Eschenburg of Plymouth, MI; and Eric Eschenburg of Fairfax, VA.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by four sisters, Susan Skeria, Stephanie Oxendine, Julie Krompacky and Rose Krompacky; four brothers, George, Fred, Charles “Ed” and infant John; and a niece, Mary.
He was lovingly known in this area as “Montana Joe.” His friends may please take a moment out of their day and say a prayer to send him on his next mission.
At his request, there will be no public visitation or funeral service.
Condolences may be sent to: condolences@kruisefuneralhome.com.