John "Skip" J. Hart

John “Skip” J. Hart, 79, of Fairmount, passed away peacefully on Wednesday at the Syracuse VA Medical Center following a courageous 22-year battle with cancer.

A lifetime resident of the Syracuse area, he was a 1964 graduate of Central Technical High School.

Skip’s commitment to service led him to enlist in the United States Air Force, where he honorably served his country until his discharge as a master sergeant. His military service was marked by dedication, strength, and resilience.

Following his time in the Air Force, Skip became a union painter, contributing his craftsmanship for six years before committing 26 years to University Hospital.

He retired in 2009, leaving behind a legacy of hard work. He was a lifelong Yankees fan, enjoyed gardening, and looked forward to his annual trips to the Jersey Shore. Above all, he cherished the time spent with his family.

Skip was predeceased by his parents, John “Jack” Sr. and Lucia; and sister, Sherry Falcone.

Surviving are his wife of 41 years, Kathleen; daughters, Heather (Hugh) Carson of Syracuse, Michelle (Jonas) Riccio of Buffalo, and Marisa (Kyle) Davis of Camillus; grandchildren, Elizabeth and Thomas Carson, Emma and Christian Riccio, Bennett, Delilah, and Graham Davis; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

To celebrate Skip’s life, relatives and friends are invited to gather on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Buranich Funeral Home, 5431 W. Genesee St., Camillus.

A funeral service will be held Thursday, September 10, 2026, at 10 a.m. in the funeral home.

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