John Krell

The world is a lot sadder today because the best story teller, our funny guy, died on May 13, 2025, after a short illness. How we will miss the sound of his voice. John Francis Krell, 90, of Fayetteville, NY, was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He was president of Krell Distributing in Syracuse which he founded in 1972. He was the consummate salesman, never hesitating to offer HVAC advice to whomever he met, even strangers. He lived a full life staying active in the business and spending winters on the ocean in Cocoa Beach.

John was outgoing and talked to everyone. No one could embellish a tale like John. His impromptu speeches at family events were legendary.In 1997 he purchased the Herald Journal building and renovated it for office space. He was proud of his service in the Navy as a corpsman and offered his medical advice freely whether requested or not.

He was the son of the late Frank and Mary (Connors) Krell, born on the north side of Syracuse on November 16, 1934. He attended St. Anthony of Padua, graduated from Christian Brothers Academy and Syracuse University. He was a member of the Century Club, Onondaga Golf and Country Club, Syracuse Stage and the Syracuse Symphony. He loved anything musical especially Broadway, jazz, big bands, Johnny Mathis, dancing and playing the harmonica. His favorite holiday was Halloween. Over the years he acquired many hobbies, including stained glass, abstract art, fishing and juggling. He was a big fan of the Yankees, the Bills and of all Syracuse University sports.

He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Eileen Hathaway Krell, his children John Jr (Tracey), Andrew, Matthew(Diana), Kendra Hathaway Fadil(Mark), Brian Hathaway, Julie Hathaway Spilka(Dan). He was the proud grandfather of Justin Davenport, Amanda and Jacob Krell, Ella, Elise and Emilia Fadil and Hailey and Connor Spilka and his sister Kathryn Krell Scott. He was known as “funny grandpa”

Calling hours will be held on Sunday, May 25 from 3 to 6 pm at Burns-Garfield Funeral Home, 3175 E. Genesee St. Syracuse. There will be a private service with the family at Assumption Cemetery at a future date.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Samaritan Center, 215 N. State St. Syracuse, NY 13203. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the comfort care nursing staff on the 5th floor at Crouse Hospital, especially Kelsey, Kelly and Kristin.