John L. Dillon, Sr.

Mr. John L. “Jack” Dillon, Sr., age 82, of Marcy, went home to the Lord when he passed away on Wednesday, January 27, 2016 after a courageous battle with Multiple Sclerosis. At the time of his passing, his devoted family was by his side. Born in Utica on February 19, 1933, John was the youngest child of the late William and Eleanor (Lux) Dillon. He attended T.R. Proctor High School. A proud U.S. military veteran, he enlisted at the age of 17 with the US Navy. Shortly after, he became a member of the US Air Force of which he had an outstanding career for over 20 years. His deployments included being stationed in Hawaii, USA, Turkey, and Germany. While in service, he received his Bachelor of Arts degree and retired as a Master Sergeant. On May 27, 1952, Jack married the former Joan H. Bowes with whom he shared 63 years. Theirs was a classic love story — they loved each other from first sight and enriched each other’s lives through their deep faith, strong sense of family, and common interests. In 1971, as a family, Jack and Joan returned to the United States and made their home in Marcy. Jack began a second career as a Medical Technologist at the former St. Luke’s Hospital. He then accepted a position with Oneida County working as a Probation Officer for a number of years. His last position was in the capacity of Oneida County Health Inspector. The epitome of Jack’s working life was service to his country and community. A loving patriarch, Jack taught his children to respect one another and enthusiastically supported all their endeavors. He wanted his kids to go beyond their expectations and live up to their greatest potential. He wished them good health, and he was very grateful, to the end of his life, for all God’s graces. Jack loved family dinners, parties, and holidays at home. During the summer months, his pool was a relaxing place where all were welcome. He was known to be a fierce and friendly card player and a savvy shopper. In spite of his illness, he was fearless and showed great strength of character. He accomplished great things. A happy, humorous, and handsome man, he was also ahead of his time and kept tempo with technology, especially electronics. He was a member of the Oneida County Republican Party, former member of the Moose Lodge and the Knights of Columbus, and former Marcy Town Justice. Jack always had God in his heart, and he forever wished for peace on earth. He loved and followed the rites of the Roman Catholic Creed. A parishioner of St. Joseph & St. Patrick Church, he faithfully attended Mass when his health permitted. More recently, he participated in daily Mass through the EWTN. He was dedicated to the Divine Mercy, a Christian devotion to the endless merciful love of God towards all people. He donated paintings of Jesus, the Divine Mercy, to area churches and was passionate in his devotion. He prayed to the Lord daily to watch over his loved ones and their pets. He often said he was placed in his wheel chair to carry out the work of the Lord from his computer, and he offered it up humbly in supplication and reverence. Jack was honored to see Pope Paul VI at St. Peter’s Basilica; it was an image that remained in his heart and a blessing that uplifted his soul, all the days of his life. John is survived by his wife, Joanie; his children and their loves, Cynthia “Cyndi” Papa of North Utica, Dr. John L., Jr. and Elizabeth Dillon of Tinton Falls, New Jersey, and Lisa and John Gattuso of Manlius; his cherished grandchildren, Angelo “A.J.” Papa, III, and his father Angelo Papa; John P. Dillon and fiancee Lisa Hildebrandt, Scott, Erin, Matthew, Megan, and Christopher Dillon; Nick, Johnny, and Steven Gattuso. He also leaves his sister and brother-in-law, Joan and Anthony DiRuzzo of Syracuse and FL; his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and sister-in-law, Carol Doyle. He was predeceased by his siblings and their spouses, Florence and Anthony Cerminaro, Sr., William A. “Bill”, Jr. and Jane Dillon, and Marie “Murph” “Mimi” and Ronald Miller; and his brother-in-law, Germaine Doyle. The family extends heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Amy Gorczynski and Dr. Stephen Culver who were so genuine and compassionate; Laura, a wonderful caregiver who made Jack smile; and Debbie, who was truly dependable and an angel. The family is also grateful to Sister Catherine Croghan, CSJ for bringing God’s love to Jack and Joan; and Rev. Anthony P. LaFache for the solace of his prayers and blessings. Visitation will be held Sunday from 2:00-5:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Mother Marianne’s West Side Kitchen; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Jack’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Monday morning at 10:00 from the funeral home and at 11:00 at St. Joseph & St. Patrick Church where his Mass of Christian Burial with Military Honors will be offered by Rev. Richard Dellos and Rev. Anthony P. LaFache. Interment will take place in St. Joseph’s cemetery at the convenience of the family.

John L. Dillon, Sr.

February 19, 1933 - January 27, 2016