In Memory of Deputy Sheriff John “Sonny” Kuhar, Jr.
Deputy Dies from COVID19 in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania authorities were sad to announce the loss of a veteran deputy. On Saturday, November 28, 2020, Deputy Sheriff John “Sonny” Kuhar, Jr. died due to complications with COVID19. He was 79 years old. Deputy Kuhar likely contracted the virus on the job while providing security at the Cambria County Human Services and the 911 building in Ebensburg.
Deputy Kuhar had been in law enforcement for more than 60 years. He began his career as an officer in 1960. Kuhar spent the last 40 years of his service with the Cambria County Sheriff’s Office. Before joining the Cambria agency, he had served with the Vintondale Borough Police Department, Nanty Glo Borough Police Department, and the Blacklick Township Police Department. He had recently celebrated his 60th anniversary of being in law enforcement on October 29.
Cambria County Sheriff’s Office
Deputy Kuhar gave his all, including his life, to the Cambria County Sheriff’s Office. The CCSO provides law enforcement services to the residents of Cambria County. The office is responsible for the safety and security of nearly 130,000 residents. Patrol deputies for the department have more than 700 square miles to cover each day. The CCSO is located in Ebensburg, which is the county seat.
The sheriff’s office is also in charge of courthouse and courtroom security. The deputies also serve bench warrants, civil papers, protective orders, and issue gun permits. The department also posts real estate notices, levies on personal property, and conducts sheriff’s sales. The office provides transportation for inmates to court hearings and operates the county jail.
Large Family Survives Deputy
His large family survives the deputy. Deputy Sheriff John “Sonny” Kuhar, Jr. leaves behind his wife, Rose, and four children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. The veteran officer will be honored by the community, friends, and fellow law enforcement officers as they celebrate the life he lived. The community will stand by the Kuhar family in support during their time of grief.
Deputy Kuhar’s wife, Rose, commented on how much the loss has impacted her family. “He loved his family so much, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Everyone who knew Sonny loved him and spoke highly of him. He loved his time spent in law enforcement. He is already missed so much by all of us.”
Kuhar’s grandson, Brandon Garver, spoke of his love for his grandfather. “He meant the world to so many people. He was my hero. Growing up, Pap was everything – the world’s actually a little bleaker since he’s been gone already – it’s tough.”
Eric Bishop, another grandson of Deputy Kuhar, stated that the family is living his memories and trying to survive. “He was somebody that always had your back and would go out of his way to help you.”
The Cambria County Sheriff’s Office posted the loss on their Facebook page. “We are unfortunate to announce the passing of Deputy Sheriff John “Sonny” Kuhar this morning after a brief illness. Deputy Kuhar has been employed with the Cambria County Sheriff’s office since 1987. He was also the Blacklick Township Police Department’s former Police Chief and recently celebrated serving his 60th year in law enforcement. In the last few years as a part-time Deputy, he served as the Security Deputy at the Human Services/911 building. Those who knew Deputy Kuhar loved and admired him. Our sincere condolences go out to his wife, Rose, and his children. He will be greatly missed.”
