Honorable John E. Flemma

UTICA - The Honorable John E. Flemma, age 94, was called to God on Saturday, May 5, 2018 with his loving family by his side. Born in Utica on November 29, 1923, John was the son of the late Gedeone and Maria (Palombo) Flemma. He graduated from T.R. Proctor High School in 1941 and continued his studies at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts. War interrupted his college career, so John proudly enlisted in the United States Army and was stationed in the European Theater of Operations, serving honorably under General George S. Patton. John fought in the bloody Battle of the Bulge during Germany’s World War II counteroffensive and helped liberate those suffering in Nazi concentration camps. After the war, John returned to Holy Cross, graduating in 1949 on the same day as his brother Richard and cousin Edward. He pursued his post-graduate work at Syracuse University College of Law where he received his Juris Doctorate degree in 1952. On March 3, 1965 he married the former Jean D. Capraro with whom he lovingly shared 53 years. They were as one, loyal and devoted through the blessings and trials of life. They honored their nuptial vows and cherished each other until parted by death. For 28 years, John practiced law in Utica, with a strong concentration in matrimonial and family law. He successfully ran for Family Court Judge in 1980, and won re-election in 1990. He was Family Court Judge from 1980-1994 and a Judicial hearing Officer from 1994-2011. Judge Flemma was renowned for being fair to all parties, his speedily and calmly handling difficult and hotly-contested cases, and being a steadfast advocate for the well-being of the children who came before him. John also loved Utica and served it in so many capacities: President of both the Board of Education of the Utica City School District and the Board of Education of the Utica Catholic School System, and on various other boards and councils. He was a catalyst for growth and change, and he was respected in this city for his noble efforts and perspicacity; God graced him with both intelligence and wisdom. A charismatic and gentle man, his core values of God, family and justice were untouchable. An eloquent speaker, his humble and heartfelt words were always uplifting. Family and God were important to John, and his Italian heritage was a source of unshakable pride. He was remarkably balanced in his roles as a good husband and a great father, and he shared in a faithful relationship with the Lord. John was a gifted skier, an excellent golfer, a sublime dancer with Jean as his partner, and avid card player with family and friends. His soul was devoted to his loved ones, and his spirit was devoted to the people he served in the courtroom. John turned many lives around for the better. He will be fondly remembered for being a wonderful Judge and an even better person. John is survived by his devoted wife, Jean, and his son, George John “Jay” Flemma. Also left to faithfully remember him are his nieces and nephews, Barbara and Gregory Kadrlik, Patricia and Renato Donato Jr., George M. Flemma, Ed Wiatr, Jr., and the late Maryanne (Flemma) Wiatr who was also his goddaughter; great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, in-laws, Letizia “Letty” Flemma, Susan Pilawa, and John and Arlene Capraro; and the longtime friends who enhanced his life. He was predeceased by his brothers and sister-in-law, Pasquale D. Flemma, and Richard and Evelyn Flemma; and his special cousin, Mary R. Casale. The family is grateful to the nurses and staff of the St. Luke’s Home/Barton East unit for their kindness and respect in caring for John. Visitation will be held Wednesday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. John’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Thursday morning at 9:30 from the funeral home and at 10:30 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where services will be offered by Rev. Mark Kaminski. Interment in Calvary Cemetery will follow graveside with full Military Honors conferred by the United States Army.

Honorable John E. Flemma

November 29, 1923 - May 5, 2018