John Michael Foertch, 65, of Syracuse, N.Y., passed away after a sudden illness on Sunday, December 17, 2023.

Born December 4, 1958, he graduated from Henniger High School in Syracuse, where he played Lacrosse. Michael attended the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland before returning to Syracuse. Michael struggled with addiction and mental illness throughout his life. He will be remembered for his love of Dunkin Donuts and Syracuse parades. Rest in peace Michael.

He was predeceased by Gerald Coyne, Eileen Coyne, and father, John Michael Foertch, Sr.

He is survived by cousins, Nora (Peter) Vander Sluis, Kathleen Giarrusso, Suzanne Parker, Gerald Coyne Jr., Jacqueline Murphy, Kimberly Melville, and Mary Theresa Smith, several more cousins on the Foertch side, mother, Joanne Mattina and sister, Patricia Fischer.

Michael's memorial service will be held on Thursday, January 4, 2023 at 1pm at the Rescuse Mission's common Room; 155 Gifford St, Syracuse, NY 13202.

Contributions may be made to Syracuse area organizations important to Michael: Rescue Mission, Catholic Charities, St. Lucy’s Church, Blessed Sacrament Church.