John Edward Morgan Jr.

John Morgan passed away peacefully at home with his devoted partner Andrea by his side. He lived a full and active life defined by curiosity, adventure, and a deep appreciation for the people and passions that filled his days. John will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his warm sense of humor, and the joy he found in time spent with family and friends.

For more than thirty years, John dedicated his professional life to the University at Albany (SUNY Albany), where he became a respected and valued member of the campus community. During his time there, he played an important role in helping build and support the university’s lacrosse program, helping establish a culture of commitment and camaraderie that left a lasting impact on generations of players, coaches, and colleagues. Those who knew him through the program remember not only his dedication to the sport, but also his generosity of spirit and the friendships he formed along the way.

John’s love for lacrosse extended well beyond the university. From its earliest days, he was involved in the Lake Placid Lacrosse Tournament, one of the sport’s most cherished summer traditions. What began as a small gathering of athletes grew into a nationally recognized event that draws players from across the country each year. John took great pride in being part of its foundation and growth, and he treasured the friendships, stories, and sense of community that the tournament fostered. For many, the fields of Lake Placid were not just a place to compete, but a place to reconnect, laugh, and celebrate the game—and John was a part of that spirit from the very beginning.

Outside of his professional life, John embraced the outdoors with enthusiasm. He loved skiing, cycling, and swimming, and rarely passed up an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the mountains or the simple pleasure of a sunny day outside. Among his favorite adventures were the biking trips throughout Europe with Andrea, where they explored new landscapes. Of all his favorite activities, skiing held a very special & dear place in his heart. Some of his happiest moments were spent gliding down the slopes with the sun on his face, surrounded by family and friends. A perfect day on the mountain, for John, often ended just the way he liked it—sharing stories, laughter, and a well-earned cold beer among the people he loved most.

John’s greatest pride, however, was always his family. His spirit lives on through his devoted partner Andrea; his children John (Sue) and Rosemarie (Philip); Andrea’s sons David (Susan), Craig (Ksenia), and Doug (Nikki) and the many grandchildren who brought him such joy. He was a proud grandfather to Michael (Thea), Haley (Eric), Charlie, Max (Maria), Evan (Kaity) and he warmly embraced Andrea’s grandchildren—Gavin, Oliver, Matilda, Polina, and Kinsey. John also delighted in the next generation, his great-grandchildren Vera, Graham, Juniper, and Raichle, who brightened his later years.

He is also fondly remembered by his former wife Patricia, with whom he shared many years and raised their family. He is survived by his beautiful two sisters Patricia Cassara and Virginia (Butch) Hotzler and their families.

John leaves behind a lifetime of memories that will continue to bring smiles, laughter, and gratitude to those who knew and loved him. Though he is no longer with us, those who cherished him take comfort in imagining that somewhere the sun is shining on fresh snow, the sky is bright and clear, and John is enjoying another perfect run.

In honor of a celebration of life will be planned for late Spring.