John Albert Meeker

In October 2025, the world lost a steady light when John Albert Meeker passed away unexpectedly after a brief hospitalization. John was born in Ithaca, New York, on September 21, 1944; the fourth of five children of Hilda (Gess) and Lawrence Glen Meeker. A proud Ithaca native, he graduated from Ithaca High School and went on to earn both his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Geology from Syracuse University. Following the example set by his father and brothers, John answered the call to serve and became a proud US Marine, spending time in Asia during his service. Later, he continued his commitment to his country and community as a U.S. Customs Agent in Buffalo and Syracuse, New York, where he worked for 25 years before retiring. John lived life on his own terms - and one of his greatest joys was building the log cabin he called home for 46 years on Tully Lake. It was a place filled with warmth, laughter, the sound of the water, and the quiet beauty of the woods. In retirement, he followed another lifelong dream and earned his private pilot's license, finding freedom in the skies the same way he did on the lake. John is predeceased by his parents; brothers Richard, Lawrence Jr., and William; his sister Shirley LaBumbard; sister-in-law Sally Meeker and brother-in-law Richard LaBumbard. To those who knew him, John was a constant - a steady presence at family gatherings, never seeking the spotlight but always there. He was a man of few words, but when his sense of humor emerged, it came with a twinkle in his deep blue eyes and a sly grin that made everyone around him smile. He loved boating, skiing, scuba diving and traveling. Above all, he loved his dogs Freedom and Jackie-O, who were his loyal companions and are missing him dearly. He leaves behind his devoted partner of 45 years, Denise Kaszuba, with whom he shared a beautiful life - full of ordinary days made extraordinary simply by being together. He will also be deeply missed by nieces Debbie Dumond, Denise Friends, Mary Sue Brenno, and Helen Jenness; nephews Jack, Billy, and John Meeker; sister-in-law Paula (Rinchack) Meeker; and Denise's extended family, who loved him as one of their own. A celebration of John's life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Central New York SPCA or to any animal rescue organization of your choice. John will be remembered not only for the life he lived, but for the way he lived it - quietly, loyally, and with love. His presence made the world a little calmer and a little kinder, and those lucky enough to have known him will carry his memory in their hearts forever.

John Albert Meeker

September 21, 1944 - October 31, 2025