Mr. John P. McGovern Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

UTICA - Mr. John P. McGovern, with his beautiful smile, returned home to the Lord on Sunday, January 28, 2018. His passing occurred in the comfort of his home with his loving family at his side after a courageous battle with cancer. He was 67 years old. John was born in Oneida, NY on October 3, 1950 to the late Willis and Ada (Flanagan) McGovern. He was one of eleven children and a graduate of Oneida High School. On September 29, 1973 he married the love of his life Lorraine M. Buttita with whom he shared 44 years of marriage. They were role models to their children and John was blessed and embraced by a family that loved him. John was employed by Hamilton College for 37 years. He began in the Maintenance Department, and with his strong work ethic and loyalty, he rose to the position of Manager of Custodial Services. John was a true family man who enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. He was self taught on so many levels, always a book in his hand and ideas on his mind. John lived his life by the motto "Keep your eyes on the future, but do not lose sight of the present". John loved the outdoors, whether it was camping, hiking, kayaking or catching a game at the ball park. He also loved entertaining in his home and traveling with his friends. Some of his most cherished memories are times spent in the Adirondacks, his many trips to the Cape and his countless road trips with map in hand and picnic basket in tow. And how he loved those winter months in Vero Beach looking out at the ocean or enjoying the peacefulness of the Indian River. Back in the day, he could be found with saw in hand cutting down the family Christmas tree. He relished the festive foods of Christmas Eve dinner and the warmth of loved ones. John performed every role in his life with a humble and abiding responsibility, but it was obvious that his favorite role was being a Papa. He gently imparted his wisdom and was involved in every aspect of his grandchildren's lives. Their innocence and accomplishments lit up his life. John lived by the Golden Rule treating everyone with kindness and love. John is survived by his wife Lorraine; his children and their loves, Shane T. and Stacy L. McGovern, and Erica M. and Assemblyman Anthony J. Brindisi; and his grandchildren, Michael A. McGovern; Anthony J. Brindisi Jr., and Lily Grace Brindisi. He leaves his sisters and brothers-in-law, Donna and Don Kitzmiller, Christine Rose, Mary and Pat Burkhart, and Eileen and Mike Cook; his brothers and sisters-in-law, Michael and Cynthia McGovern, Dan McGovern and Jennifer, Terry and Betty McGovern, George McGovern and Billy and Shirley McGovern. He was preceded by his brother, James McGovern. He is also survived by his brother-in-law Frank A. Buttita, with whom he shared a close and respectful relationship. John was beloved by extended family Rovy and Veronica Sze and their children Emily and Ethan. He was preceded by Lorraine's parents, Thomas and Mary Buttita, who played a very important part in his life. The family extends their gratitude to Dr. Sultana Razia and her entire staff, especially Vanny, for their compassion, dedication and friendship. They also thank the personnel of Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. The family honored and commemorated John's life at a private time. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend John's funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Saturday at 12:00 noon at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where his Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Mark Kaminski. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of the Mass. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in John's honor may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc. online at http://hospicecareinc.org; envelopes will be available at the service. John's family asks you to embrace your family: get down on the floor and play with your kids, take a walk down your favorite trail, smell the fresh air, go on an adventure and enjoy your time on this earth.

Mr. John P. McGovern

October 3, 1950 - January 28, 2018