John Shook Obituary

Shook, John J. Sr.
STILLWATER - John J. Shook Sr., 72, passed away peacefully at home, on September 14, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Born in the Bronx, N.Y., on February 14, 1953, he was the son of the late Solon and Lucille Callahan Shook. John was a 1971 graduate of Mechanicville High School.
He dedicated much of his career to the railroad industry, serving 12 years as a conductor with the D&H Railroad, before joining Amtrak, where he worked for 27 years, until his retirement in 2013. Following retirement, John shared his love of history as a volunteer historical interpreter at the Saratoga Battlefield and National Historical Park. He also enjoyed over 10 summers as a supervisor of mutual tellers at the Saratoga Race Course.
John had a passion for ancestry, especially researching the Shook and Callahan family histories. He loved motorcycling, caring for his lawn, practicing karate - where he earned a black belt - and, above all, spending time with his cherished family and friends.
Survivors include his son, John (Tracy) Shook Jr. of Ballston Lake; his daughter, Melissa (Jason) Micklas of Stillwater; and his beloved grandchildren, Theresa and Juniper Shook, Issac, Sabrina, and Scarletta Micklas. He is also survived by his sister, Janet Shook of Syracuse. He was predeceased by his brother, Frederic Shook.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., at the DeVito-Salvadore Funeral Home, 39 S. Main St., Mechanicville. A funeral service will be conducted at the funeral home on Saturday, at 10:00 a.m., followed by Burial in St. Paul's Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Saratoga National Historical Park, 648 Rt. 32, Stillwater, N.Y. 12170.
To leave condolences, share memories and photos, or for directions, please visit www.devito-salvadorefh.com