John J. Kukene, 102, Former Hale Hospital Nurse

John J. Kukene, 102, the husband of the late Alice W. (Schultz) Kukene, died at the Nevins Nursing Home in Methuen with his loving family by his side.

Born in Amesbury, he was the son of the late John and Antonet (Drahovzalova) Kukene. Raised and educated in Amesbury, he attended Essex Agricultural Institute in Danvers and graduated with a degree in agriculture. Kukene served his country honorably in the United States Army as a master sergeant during World War II. While in the Army, he served in the medical corp in France and upon returning back to the States, worked for the Veterans Administration as a medical administrator for many years. He also served in the Army Reserves as an X-ray technician and licensed nurse at the former Hale Hospital in Haverhill. He enjoyed tending his garden and was an avid gardener for many years. With his wife Alice, he traveled extensively throughout the New England area and the East Coast. Kukene was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather and cherished his family. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Kukene is survived by his children, John E. Kukene and his wife Annette of Sandown, N.H., Gerald C. Kukene and his wife Virginia of Haverhill, Steven L. Kukene and his wife Jacqueline Brush-Kukene of Haverhill, three grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife, he is predeceased by his son William C. Kukene, his siblings, Jeremiah, George and Frank Kukene, Mildred Cronin and Josephine Decie.

Family and friends are invited to attend calling hours on Monday, Jan. 7 from 5-8 p.m. at the Kevin B. Comeau Funeral Home, 486 Main St., Haverhill. Funeral services will be on Tuesday at 10 a.m. at the Riverside Church, 278 Groveland St., Haverhill. Burial will follow in Linwood Cemetery, John Ward Avenue, Haverhill.