Hugo Polichemi

Hugo Polichemi, 95, of Syracuse, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, at Francis House.

Born and raised in New Jersey, Hugo moved to the Camillus area in 1966. He received his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Rutgers University and later earned his Master of Education from Bowdoin College. Deeply committed to teaching, Hugo dedicated 31 years to teaching chemistry in the Jamesville-DeWitt School District, where he inspired generations of students with his passion for science. After retiring in 1992, he continued to share his love of learning as an adjunct professor at Onondaga Community College.

A man of quiet strength and deep curiosity, Hugo was a devoted member of Christ Community Church of the Nazarene, where his faith shaped the way he lived and cared for others. He was an avid reader who could often be found with a book in hand, eager to learn something new—especially when it came to science. His fascination with how things worked paired beautifully with another lifelong passion, woodworking.

Among all of his interests and accomplishments, nothing brought Hugo greater pride than his family. He was blessed with nine grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in his heart. Time spent with them—whether laughing around the table, sharing stories, or simply being present—was his greatest happiness. He often expressed this sentiment with a smile and his familiar words: “I am blessed.”

Hugo was predeceased by his wife, Antoinette; and three siblings.

Surviving are his daughters, Ruthanne (Rick) Moore, Naomi (Raymond) Cook, and Rebecca (Thomas) Dusart; nine grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; sister, Mary (Dominick) Locandro; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

To celebrate Hugo’s life, relatives and friends are invited to gather on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Christ Community Church of the Nazarene, 3644 Warners Rd., Syracuse. A funeral service will follow at the church.

Hugo will be laid to rest in the Onondaga County Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Syracuse.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Francis House, 108 Michaels Ave., Syracuse, NY 13208.