Michael J. "Mike" Hennessy

Michael "Mike" J. Hennessy, 70, of Onondaga Hill, died Sunday, May 22, 2016, at St. Joseph's Hospital. Born on Tipp Hill, Mike graduated from Vocational High School. He resided in Pennellville and the Valley before moving to Onondaga Hill where has resided for the past 23 years. Mike was the last surviving son of four born to the late Ralph and Helen (Fowler) Hennessy. He was predeceased by three brothers: Dick, Bill "Pole" and David Hennessy

Mike was a US Navy veteran during the Vietnam War who served aboard the USS Simon Lake. He retired in 2002 after 31 years as a machinist for New Process Gear in East Syracuse. Since then, Mike has been a bus driver for First Student East. He was a former member of the Caughdenoy Volunteer Fire Dept., President of the Veterans Committee and Trustee for the U.A.W. Local #624. Mike was currently serving as the President of First Student's East S.E.I.U. Union and was a founding member for the creation of the Veteran's Memorial at the NYS Fairgrounds. He enjoyed fishing, boating and golfing at the family's summer camp in Brennan's Bay in Sandy Pond for many years. Mike loved traveling with his wife, Cindy, especially on cruises. He attended St. Paul's Methodist Church in Syracuse.

Mike is survived by his wife of 45 years, the former Cynthia Hartman; their two children: Candace Hennessy of Syracuse and Christopher (Michele) Hennessy of Solvay; four grandchildren: Myennah, Carmen, TreAnthony, and Mia; and by his beloved pets, Mia and Chloe.

Contributions in Mike's memory may be made to the Special Olympics, CNY Region, 6315 Fly Rd., East Syracuse, NY 13057 or to Francis House, 108 Michaels Ave., Syracuse, NY 13208.

Friends may call on Wednesday from 4 - 7 pm at Krueger Funeral Home, 2619 Brewerton Rd., Mattydale. A Funeral Service will follow at 7 pm. Burial will be on Thursday, 11 am, in Onondaga Valley Cemetery, Syracuse.