John Theodore Novenche

Clifton Park, NY
John Theodore Novenche, age 81, of Appletree Lane, passed away peacefully at home in the loving presence of his family on Wednesday, November 26, 2025. Born in Syracuse, NY, he was the son of the late Myron and Mary (Welch) Novenche.
John graduated from East Syracuse High School, where his exceptional talent on the basketball court earned him a place at both the University of Southern Mississippi and Indiana State University, continuing his successful collegiate basketball career. He married his high school sweetheart, the former Nina M. Locona, on May 14, 1966, and together they began a lifelong journey marked by deep devotion, partnership, and unwavering love.
John proudly served with the U.S. National Guard from 1966–1972. In 1979, he and Nina settled in Clifton Park, NY, where they raised their family. A dedicated father, John stood shoulder to shoulder with his sons, guiding them from boyhood into men of integrity, strength, and compassion. Later, he poured that same love and guidance into his grandchildren. Together with his sons, he built their cherished camp in central New York which was a place where they hunted, fished, laughed, and shared a profound appreciation for the outdoors. To his family, he was not only a father and grandfather, but a mentor, teacher, and life-long coach.
John worked as a railroad engineer for 41 years, retiring from CSX in Selkirk, NY. He was a proud member of the Teamsters Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen. His athletic legacy was recently recognized when he was inducted into his high school's basketball hall of fame, an honor that brought him great joy. John also enjoyed trying his luck with the ponies and loved spending a leisurely day at Saratoga Race Course.
A man of deep faith, John was a devoted and prayerful Catholic. Above all, he was dedicated to his wife, his family, and the values he instilled in them. He will be remembered for his strength, humility, steady guidance, and the love he gave so generously.
He was the beloved husband of Nina M. Novenche; loving father of John (Tricia) Novenche, Mark Novenche and Myron (Nicole) Novenche; adoring grandfather of John, Michael and Joseph Novenche, Kaleigh and Melanie Novenche, and Lana and Piper Novenche; dear great grandfather of Aribella and Aliana Carter.
Along with his parents, he is predeceased by his siblings, Ellen Lusher and Gabe Novenche.
Funeral service will be held privately.
Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude’s Place
Memphis, TN 38105.
Arrangements are entrusted to Townley & Wheeler Funeral Home, 21 Midline Road, Ballston Lake, and they encourage you to view and leave messages on John's Book of Memories at www.TownleyWheelerFH.com.