The Federal Way community has recently lost an important business owner, longtime Rotarian and a devoted family man who throughout his life had embodied what it means to be a hometown hero.

John Martin Kurosky died Jan. 11, 2022, due to complications from cancer. He was born in Ohio on May 14, 1943, before eventually moving to Washington around 1974.

Kurosky was the president and owner of Eagle Tire and Automotive, for which he opened shop locations in Federal Way, Tacoma and Gig Harbor.

Kurosky’s son Ron, who worked with him at Eagle Tire and Automotive, said that as a business owner and service provider he went “over and above” for his customers and community. Ron said he was “open to helping everybody,” even accommodating customers who could not afford service on their automobiles.

Kurosky’s son said that his father’s generosity carried into everything he did, including his long career as a Federal Way Rotarian. John Kurosky had been a Rotarian since 1985, where he supported and has actively participated in many of the club’s local and international projects.

Ron said his father was not necessarily “out in front” in terms of the Rotary Club and its members, but he said John Kurosky worked to support many projects and endeavors.

“He was a big supporter of everything,” Ron said.

Kurosky was most supportive of his own grandchildren, to which he affectionately referred to as the “elite eleven.” Kurosky was very proud and involved with his grandchildren, supporting their athletic careers and remaining present at every event. Ron said his father would often show up to practice, just because he wanted to be involved in that aspect of his children’s lives.

Kurosky had a property on Lake Tapps where he cherished all the time he could spend with his children and grandchildren.