John Symula

REMSEN- John Symula, 77, passed away on Thursday, January 1, 2026 at the Grand Rehabilitation and Nursing Home in Rome.

He was born on June 14, 1948 in Auburn, New York, a son of the late George Paul and Lottie Ruth Bielowicz Symula. John grew up in Auburn and graduated from Auburn High School. He furthered his education at the University of Buffalo where he earned a Bachelor's Degree. In 1972, John married the love of his life, Christine Maines, in Kingston, New York. He worked in contracting for a time before beginning his lifelong career with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation as a Fish and Wildlife Technician. John worked at DEC locations across New York, including in Cortland, Albany, and most recently in Rome at the fish hatchery.

John enjoyed hunting, fishing, downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, hiking, canoeing, being outside, coaching baseball, and camping with his children when they were younger.

He was a member of the Remsen Recreational Committee where he helped set up the ski hill in Remsen and was involved in the Indian Hill Ski Area on Old Poland Road in Barneveld. John also coached his children's minor league baseball team when they played.

John is survived by his beloved wife, Christine; three children, Matthew Thomas Symula, Lori Ann Symula (Erik) Ward, and Christopher Allen Symula (Amy Stewart); three grandchildren, Kaylee Symula and Skyler and Kaden Ward; four siblings, Ann Swerc, Steve, Edmond, and George Symula; one special cousin who was like a brother, Kenny Kudla; and many nieces and nephews. John was predeceased by his parents.

There are no calling hours or funeral services. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Arrangements are in the care of Ackley-Mills Funeral Home of Remsen.

For an online message of sympathy, you may go to www.millsfuneralhomes.com.

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