WESTERLO―Betty Jean “BJ” Kubernach, 92, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, in Catskill.

She was born on June 6, 1933, in Queens Village to Robert S. and Mabel W. Cooke.  BJ was raised in Queens Village and later lived in Huntington, Long Island before settling in Westerlo in 1969, where she remained for the rest of her life.

BJ graduated from East Rockaway High School in June of 1951.  Throughout her life, she was known for her strong work ethic, independence, and creativity, and was a familiar and friendly face in the communities of Greenville and Westerlo.  She worked alongside and co-owned John Kubernach, Inc. in Greenville with her late husband, John Kubernach.  Earlier in her career, she worked for Northrop Grumman, packaging parts in support of the war effort.  She also worked as an art cataloger and in sales for Artscan, and later as a deli clerk at Bryant’s Supermarket.

BJ enjoyed quilting, crafts, gardening, and reading – hobbies that reflected her patience, creativity, and love of learning.  She found joy in working with her hands, and took pride in the beauty she created and shared with others.  BJ will be remembered for her resilience, her creativity, and the quiet strength with which she lived her life.  Her legacy of love, dedication, and family will continue through those who knew and loved her.

She is survived by her son, John “Chris” Kubernach and his wife, Elizabeth “Tish”; her grandchildren, Holly Drescher, Bethany Granato, Joanne Spinner, and Christen Kubernach; her nine great-grandchildren with a special and loving relationship with Bridget Laird, Elias Durant, Ansley Delosa, Nathan and Carter Spinner, who held a cherished place in her heart.  BJ is predeceased by her parents, Robert and Mabel Cooke; her loving husband, John Kubernach; her daughter, Ivy Holcomb; her granddaughter, Kaytlan West; and her brothers, Robert Cooke Jr. and Alvin Cooke.

Calling hours will be Sunday, February 15 from 1 to 4 p.m. at A.J. Cunningham Funeral Home, 4898 State Route 81, Greenville.  BJ’s ashes will be buried in the spring in Westerlo Rural Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Town of Westerlo Public Library, 604 State Route 143, Westerlo, NY 12193.  

Condolences may be posted at ajcunninghamfh.com.

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