John A. Tears

PULTENEY – John A. Tears, 73, a lifelong resident of Pulteney, New York, passed away on August 31, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his loving family.

A devoted husband, dad, grandpa, friend, and neighbor. John will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his service to his country, and his boundless commitment to his community.

Born on August 18, 1952, in Bath, NY, John was the son of Roy “Peck” Tears and Stella Tears. Growing up in Pulteney, he forged deep roots in the community he loved and would serve for decades.

John’s life exemplified commitment to others both at home and abroad. At just 20 years old, he became one of the last young men in New York State to be drafted into the U.S. Army, serving from 1972 to 1974. Stationed in Gieson, Germany, he had the unique experience of living in a castle alongside his Army buddy and lifelong friend, Larry Crabtree. Following active duty, John continued his service in the Army Reserves until 1996, embodying a steadfast sense of duty.

Upon returning home, John built a career at Mercury Aircraft, retiring after nearly four decades of dedicated work. But perhaps his greatest contributions were to the town he called home. A lifelong resident of Pulteney, John poured his time and energy into volunteering for his community. He was a proud and active member of the Pulteney Fire Department, Pulteney Fire Commissioners, Pulteney Fire Police Captain, and a dedicated driver for the Pulteney Ambulance Corps. He was also a past member of the Pulteney Ambulance Corps. He lent his help to countless calls.

John extended his service through active membership in the Bath Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Hammondsport American Legion Post 407. As a proud member of the American Legion Color Guard, he was a familiar presence at parades and ceremonial events, honoring fellow veterans and the country he served.

John took the greatest pride in his family. He was a loving husband to Conny, devoted dad to Jason (Becky) Tears, and the very best grandpa to Stefania and Madison Tears—never missing a concert, a sporting event, or any special moment. Grandpa was always ready with a joke, an encouraging word, or a cheer from the sidelines, and loved the adventures and crazy fun he shared with his granddaughters.

John had a soft spot for animals, especially compassion for the neighborhood stray cats. One special orange cat, Ollie, found a forever home with him and became a spoiled member of the house. He enjoyed gatherings with family, spending time with friends at the VFW and Legion, helping out with anything needed at the firehouse, and especially, going on many cruises with family and friends.

He is survived by his loving wife of over 50 years, Conny; beloved son Jason (Becky); his cherished granddaughters Stefania and Madison; brother Donald (Rhonda); sister Patty Williams; sisters-in-law, Peggy, Janet and Vivian; and brother-in-law Allen; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Roy “Peck” Tears, mother, Stella Tears and his brothers William, Ronald, and James Tears.

John will be remembered always as a loving husband, great dad, and the best grandpa—generous with his time, loyal to his friends, and dedicated to helping those in need. His sense of humor, kindness, and selflessness touched everyone fortunate enough to know him.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Pulteney Fire House on Sunday, September 21, 2025, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in John’s honor to the Pulteney Fire Department or Hammondsport American Legion Post 407.

He will be dearly missed, but his legacy of service and love will carry on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Bishop & DeSanto Funeral Home, Hammondsport, is honored to assist John’s family with the arrangements.

Online condolences or remembrances are welcome below, or on the Facebook page of Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral Home.