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John M. Buranich IV - affectionately known as Little J, 902 1/2, J, JB4, and IV.
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of John M. Buranich IV, age 31, who left this world far too early. John lived a life defined by hard work, courage, and an unwavering commitment to doing things the right way.
From the moment he could make a grip, John was by his father's side, pulling levers and learning machines. That bond with his father, John M. Buranich III, grew into a lifelong partnership built on trust, shared labor, and mutual pride. Together, they worked, learned, and faced life head-on—forming a relationship that exemplified dedication, respect, and love.
John was an exceptional machine operator whose skill and ability were widely known throughout the community. No machine, truck, or tool intimidated him. If he didn't already know how to do something, he taught himself—fearlessly and thoroughly. He took risks in life, faced challenges head-on, and overcame obstacles with determination and grit. His name became synonymous with quality workmanship and a job done right.
He loved the farm he was creating. Starting from the early age of 14, with his great grandfather's equipment, he spent more time fixing the equipment than he did making hay, but worked through it. He said, "Once I get my license, production will go way up." He poured his heart into building his business, Buranich Farms, and grew it to one of the largest—or the largest—hay suppliers in the area. John was never afraid to get his hands dirty—there wasn't a day that went by that he didn't—and he wouldn't have wanted it any other way. It was a life rooted in honest work. Work was not just something he did; it was who he was, but also what he enjoyed.
John also held deep love and respect for his grandparents, Joan and John, whom he helped every day without fail in the growth of Buranich Enterprises. His loyalty to family and willingness to give his time and strength spoke volumes about the man he was.
John is survived by his parents, John M. Buranich III and his wife Chrissy Buranich, and his mother, Evonne Zvolensky-Szweda and her husband John; his brother, Justin Buranich, his wife Marissa, and their daughter Charlotte; and his sister, Chelsea Tompa, her husband Jason, and their children Nathan and Margot. He is also survived by his grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and a team of employees who are like family. John was a devoted son, a loving brother, and a man whose work ethic and character left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.
Though his life was cut short, John's legacy lives on—in the fields he worked, the machines he mastered, and the people he inspired. He will be remembered for his strength, his fearlessness, and his unwavering dedication to family, work, and life.
He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
We are profoundly grateful for the outpouring of love and support from our family, friends, neighbors, employees, and community.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9:30 am on Monday at Church of St. Benedict, 1849 Newton Ransom Blvd, Clarks Summit. Friends may pay their respects on Sunday from 1 to 5 pm at the church.
Boots & Blue Jeans welcome.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Pennsylvania Future Farmers of America Foundation, C/O Sarah Sparks, Executive Director, P.O Box 157, East Berlin, PA 17316.
Sunday, December 28, 2025
1:00 - 5:00 pm
Church of St. Benedict
Monday, December 29, 2025
Starts at 9:30 am
Church of St. Benedict
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