Obituary of Michael J. Hungerford

Michael J. Hungerford died August 21, 2024 at the age of 77 at St. Camillus.  On August 5, 1947 he was born in Utica the only child of Gilbert and Shirley Hoffman Hungerford.

Mike graduated from New Hartford High School in 1965 and from the University of Pennsylvania (not to be confused with Penn State)with a B.A. in 1969.  He was a conscientious objector who performed alternative service; first, cleaning up operating rooms at Community General, then as an Onondaga County Children’s Protective Worker.  It was here that he met his life’s partner, Margaret Ryniker. 

Two weeks after they married they attended Syracuse University College of Law together.  Mike graduated first in his class.  He then went to work at Legal Services of Central New York.  From there he went to the NYS Attorney General’s Office where he served as a consumer fraud attorney.  He finished his career as the principal attorney for the NYS Mental Hygiene Legal Services.   Mike dedicated his life to helping and protecting people.  In that spirit he hopes that you will vote for Harris/Walz. 

Michael loved his family.  Since he was an only child, it was courageous (or foolhardy) of him to bring 4 children into the world.  The kids justified his purchase and enjoyment of all kinds of gadgets and electronic toys.  He enjoyed running every morning with the family dogs.  He loved backpacking and camping.  He loved their cottage at T. I. Park on Wellesley Island.  He loved baseball but he hated the Yankees.

Mike ws an Eagle Scout.  His faith in God was a major part of his foundation.  He was active in his church.  He gave his time helping to feed hungry people and to the sanctuary movement. 

He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Margaret Ryniker, and their children: Elizabeth Hungerford (Lisa MacPhail), Peter Hungerford (Danielle), Eleanor Hungerford (Peter Hambrecht), Abby Hind (Brendan), and his beloved grandchildren.

Mike’s family would like to thank St. Camillus for their care of Mike, especially LPN PJ Williams, CNAs Jaeden, William, Kesheaf,  Sarah, Ty, and Baker Unit secretary Serena.

There will be no funeral. Calling hours at the Edward J. Ryan and Son Funeral Home, 3180 Bellevue Avenue, Syracuse, NY, on Sunday, August 25, 2024, from 1:00-3:00pm.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Interreligious Food Consortium, 731 James Street, Syracuse, NY 13203; or L’Arche Syracuse, 920 Spencer Street, Syracuse, NY 13204; or Planned Parenthood, 1120 East Genese Street, Syracuse, NY 13210.