John A. Palma

East Greenbush- John A. Palma, 85, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 20, 2026. Born in Schenectady and raised in the Albany, East Greenbush area, he was the son of the late John A. Palma and Matilda (Rovelli) Palma Olszewski.

John, was a proud United States Marine who honorably served from 1959 to 1963. He was a proud member of Teamsters Local 294 and later worked at the University at Albany, where he retired after 23 years of service. John was an avid New York Mets fan, a supporter of Siena men's basketball, and a golf enthusiast who enjoyed frequent trips to Florida with friends. He loved traveling the world, especially exploring numerous countries several times throughout Europe. He was known as the "Narrator". He also cherished time spent on Cape Cod and at his camp on Pine Lake.

John will be remembered for his dedication, love of sports, passion for travel, and enjoyment of life's simple pleasures. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his two children John P. Palma (Amy) and Morgan Axenson (Richard). He was the loving “Pop” to Matthew Palma and Amanda Palma. He is also survived by his former wife Diane “DeeDee” Palma.

He will also be missed by his siblings Kenneth "Ziggy" Palma (Joann), Judy Wells, Virginia Calhoun and Lois Liporace (Will) and several nieces and nephews and friends and former longtime companion Carol Kelly and her family.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance (FARA) online at www.curefa.org/donate or by mail, 533 W Uwchlan Avenue Downingtown, PA 19335 US.

Calling hours will be held October 28, 2026 from 10am-12pm at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 343 New Karner Rd., Colonie, NY 12205. A service will begin at 12pm with interment and full military honors following at Our Lady of Angels Cemetery.