John Michael Liberatore

John Liberatore "Papa John" went to be with the Lord on May 26, 2012. Born March 24, 1924, to Giovanni and Serafina (Massimiani) Liberatore. He is preceded in death by his parents, his first wife of 54 years Simone (Trompette) whom he met and married in Bar-le-Duc France during WWII; siblings, Guido, Charles, Dominic, Albert, James Palimina (Pauline) Bernard, and his twin sister Angelina Gleason.

He was a veteran of WWII served with the 307th Airborne Medical Company, 82nd Airborne Division (1943-44), and the 100 General Hospital (1944-45). Returning to the states he served with the 116th Armored Medical Battalion, 27th Armored Division, New York Army National Guard (1945-1963). He was a graduate of Vocational High School. John retired from the Syracuse Fire Department after serving 23 years (1953-76). He was active in the Syracuse Fire Fighters Association, Local 280, IAFF. He joined the Syracuse Retired Fire Fighters Association and held the position of secretary. John was very active in the American Legion. He was a lifetime member at the Eastwood Post 1276. He held leadership posts at the local, state and national levels from the 1970s through the 1990s.

He is survived by his wife of 10 years, Marilyn (Russell) Liberatore, two sons, Donald (Janet) of Virginia and Mark of California, two daughters Gerri Petragnani of Cicero and Gina Husak of North Syracuse, five grandchildren Kimberly (Robert) Stolz of Maryland, Kevin (Carrie) Liberatore of Ohio, Michael Petragnani of East Syracuse, Nicholas and Sophie Husak of North Syracuse five great-grandchildren, Kyle and Emily Liberatore, Thomas, Charlotte and Christina Stolz, and several nieces, nephews, great-great-great nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be Thursday 9:15 a.m. at Farone & Son Funeral Home, and 10 a.m. in SS. Peter and Paul Orthodox Church. Burial will follow in the Veterans Cemetery. Calling hours will be Wednesday 4 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home, 1500 Park St with the Requiem Service at 6:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please make donations either to the church or the Fire Fighters Memorial Park.