John Paul Kalynych was born June 13, 1973, in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, to Paul and Pauline Kalynych. John lived a life dedicated to serving others and left an indelible mark on countless friends, family, and strangers through his service to the community.

John devoted countless hours to emergency services in Lehigh and Northampton counties, starting when he was just 16 years old. John’s family recalls him waking in the middle of the night to the plectron alert. They were concerned for his safety, but his desire to help his community sent him out the door and to the station, ready to pitch in wherever he could.

John was a hard worker who seldom seemed to rest when there was a job to be done. The scarce times he did take a moment to himself, he could be found fishing, hunting, spending time with family and friends, or relaxing in his favorite recliner.

John’s career in emergency services encompassed volunteer and professional appointments and activities including Hanover Township VFC, Bethlehem Township VFC, Catasauqua FD, Lower Saucon Fire Rescue, Easton EMS Board of Directors, Lehigh County Fire Chief Association, Lehigh Valley Rescue, Dewey Fire Company, Berwick EMS, Lehigh County Special Operations, FEMA Task Force 1, MERT Team, Northeast PA Regional Counter Terrorism Task Force, In-State Urban Search and Rescue PA Company 3, Lehigh County Emergency Management Director, fire school instructor for Bucks County, and September 11, 2001 Ground Zero Response.

John was a teacher and a leader who helped shape the next generation of first responders. This was one of his passions. He loved to share his knowledge, be a mentor, and see others grow and succeed in the field. He took pride in their successes and offered words of wisdom when they needed it most. Today, there is a foundation named in John’s honor dedicated to educating and guiding first responders. John had a unique ability to push everyone to be better. He inspired people to want more. If John didn’t have the answer or couldn’t help, he’d always “have a guy” to connect you with who could help. Despite his training, certifications, and accolades, he remained one of the humblest people you’d ever encounter.

John was a proud father to two sons, Andrew and Dylan, and grandfather to Parker John. He is lovingly remembered by his parents, Paul and Pauline; sister, Rebecca, and her husband, Dave; nieces, Caitlyn and Rachel; and his wife, Jacquelyn.

John’s legacy will live on forever. The impact he had on emergency services and his family and friends will continue to carry on through all of them.