EMIL KURAK JR.
Emil J. “Mo” Kurak, Jr. was escorted into Eternal Life on October 2, 2025 – the Feast of the Guardian Angels! Emil was a lifelong resident of Yonkers and was born to and predeceased by his loving and dedicated parents, Victoria and Emil Kurak, Sr. He was the cherished brother of Michael (Grace), Mary (Christopher) Merenda, and Victoria. Loving uncle of Sarah and Meagan Merenda. Emil’s groups of friends were a mosaic and with him at the core of that mosaic were Anthony, Peter, Mike, and Darius (among others, who have their own versions of stories). He is also survived by many extended family members and friends.
Emil was a longtime parishioner of Most Holy Trinity Parish, until its closing. At first he gravitated to St. Bartholomew Parish in Yonkers, but enjoyed visiting other parishes to participate in Mass, concerts, Advent or Lenten reflections, Adoration, or just rest in the quiet of these sacred places.
After MHT Grammar School, Emil graduated from Salesian High School, Iona College with a BA in Mathematics/Computer Science, and completing an MS in Computer Science. Starting his IT career at CBS, Emil moved through different IT positions and withstood the many corporate takeovers and transitions, eventually ending his career at Viacom.
His circle of friends was vast –the MHT grammar school gang, the Boy Scout ‘adventurers’, the little league baseball and football teams, 3am hockey at Murray’s Skating Rink, Salesian guys, to his ‘mature’ sports – Hollow Heads softball, Fantasy Football forays, and more . . .
An avid Ranger, Yankee, and Giants fan – Emil had patience with each of them! Enough said . . .
Emil was a man of steadfast faith with trust in God and His plans for him, whatever was in his future. This is most evident in his challenge with a neuro-endocrine tumor diagnosis ~4 1//2 years ago. Emil approached the disease as a true IT professional – methodical, analytical, and inquisitive. He welcomed his family, friends, and medical teams on his ‘journey’ and appreciated our support and input, but he was ‘steering the ship’. Many times his questions caused doctors to say ‘good point’!
Most of all, Emil trusted God and His plans – no matter where they led. He knew our ultimate goal and was at peace with his situation. Emil was kind, gentle, caring, generous, humble, and never knew a stranger. We are blessed that our Lord shared him with us and others and that Emil was a true instrument of God’s presence, love, and mercy. He was a humble man, always putting others first; he had an unshakeable trust in God and saw the beauty and awesomeness in all of His creations.
We are grateful for the staff at Mt. Sinai Hospital in NYC who worked with Emil during his diagnosis and many treatments. Thanks to the caring teams at the Mt Sinai Palliative Care unit – we met so many wonderful healthcare professionals who are where they were meant to be. They cared for Emil in so many ways (above and beyond) and helped us during this time of overnight stays and questions. We thank you, our family and friends, for your prayers, your support, and your love.
In lieu of flowers please make a donation to: The Franciscan Friars of the Renewal: Community of Franciscan Friars of the Renewal Attn: General Steward 421 E. 155th Street Bronx, NY 10455 In memory of Emil Kurak or the American Cancer Society 2310 Rt. 34, Lower Level Manasquan, NJ 08736 Please note: In Memory of Emil Kurak, Attn: Jen Lefthand
“Well done good and faithful servant!” ~ Matthew 25:21
“God loves those who thank Him, even in suffering.” ~ St. Arnold Janssen
Memorial Visitation for Emil will be on Monday, October 6, 2025, in DUCHYNSKII-CHERKO Funeral Home, from 4PM to 8PM.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at Most Holy Trinity Church, at 10AM.
Interment follows at St. Joseph’s Cemetery.