Falls Church resident Joseph Kravinsky died Feb 28. He was 100 years old.
Kravinsky has lived in Falls Church with his family since 2005.
Kravinsky was born in Bragin, Russia on June 19, 1911. At 11, after his father died of influenza, he immigrated to the United States with his mother, brother and two sisters. He spent 10 days at Ellis Island while immigration officials determined whether to let a widow and four children enter the country or send them back.
Fortunately, they were allowed in and settled in Philadelphia.
During World War II, he served as a PFC in the 773 Tank Destroyer Battalion. He received five campaign ribbons including Normandy and Ardennes (Battle of the Bulge), where he received a bronze star.
After WWII, he owned a printing business in Philadelphia and became an avid hiker and runner. He completed his last major event at 72, the JFK 50 Mile run, but continued jogging and walking well into his 90s. He was often seen by neighbors along the W&OD Trail.
Kravinsky is survived by sons, Mike Kravinsky and wife Liza of Arlington, Bob Kravinsky and wife Phyllis of Falls Church, and grandchildren Nina and Benjamin.
Kravinsky will be buried at Arlington National Cemetery.
