John B. Khantzian

John B. Khantzian was born in Flushing, NY on July 7, 1948. He passed away peacefully on July 21, 2024.  John was the son of John and Agnes Khantzian, loyal brother to Helen, loving husband to Diane, devoted father to Kelly, John and son-in-law Thomas, but where he really shined was being the most amazing grandfather to Michael & Matthew. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law Rosemary and Deborah and brothers-in-law Allan and Philip, as well as his wonderful nieces and nephews, friends, and neighbors. 

John joined the U.S. Navy in 1968 and served his country until 1973. He worked for U.S. Postal Security before moving on to U.S. Customs.  He started his career there as a Patrol Officer and then was promoted to Inspector where he worked the piers in Manhattan and Brooklyn and J.F.K. Airport. He also worked in the Marine Unit as a Boat Handler. Known for his large bark on the job, John deep down was a gentle giant. During his career at U.S. Customs, John rose to the ranks of Supervisory  Customs Inspector. He took great pride in this position and had the backs of all of his employees. 

Throughout the years, John played softball for the U.S. Customs team and bowled for over 20 years in the Police Olympics.  He retired in 2002 where he spent his days bowling at Maple Lanes in Rockville Centre, fishing on Long Island, organizing breakfast meetings for his retired colleagues at Mitchell’s in Valley Stream and attending car shows where he showed off his GTO. 

John was a true patriot that loved his country.  He loved his Newfoundlands Honey, Jack, and Tootsie and his mini-Labradoodle Teddy.  He also enjoyed watching the New York Yankees and Jets (lose). John’s most cherished role was being Grandpa to Michael and Matthew. He loved seeing them and keeping up with all of their adventures. 

John will surely be missed by all those who loved him.