Charles "Chuck" R. Coon

Charles “Chuck” R. Coon, 81, of Syracuse, passed away peacefully on Monday at Syracuse Home at McHarrie Place. A lifetime resident of the Syracuse area, Chuck was known for his deep love of history, devotion to education, and his profound impact on countless students and colleagues over his remarkable 58-year teaching career.

Chuck was a proud graduate of Cherry Road Elementary, attended North High School, and graduated from Solvay High School in 1961. His passion for learning led him to earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in history from the University of Albany.

Chuck's teaching journey began as a graduate teaching assistant at Albany, and from there, his career flourished. For 34 years, he served as a history teacher, department chair, and administrator at the Baldwinsville Central School District. 

After retiring from full-time teaching, Chuck continued to inspire students as an adjunct professor at OCC, a vice principal at West Genesee High School, and a social studies instructor at SUNY Oswego. At SUNY Cortland, he shared his expertise in U.S. History for four years, mentoring future educators.

Even in retirement, Chuck's love for teaching endured. He joined Oasis, a program dedicated to lifelong learning for seniors, where he developed and taught courses on a variety of topics, including the history of immigration, the Erie Canal, the Buffalo Soldiers, capitalism, and socialism. Teaching at Oasis brought Chuck immense joy, especially as he connected with students who, even in their 70s, 80s, and 90s, shared his passion for learning.

A dedicated communicant of St. Joseph’s Church, Chuck served as an usher. He was also active in professional organizations, including the New York State Council for the Social Studies, where he edited the newsletter, served as president, and chaired the state convention in Albany. He was a proud member of the New York State Teachers Association.

Outside of his professional life, Chuck was an avid reader, a world traveler, and a devoted admirer of the Adirondacks. 

Above all, he cherished time spent with the love of his life, Barb, whose companionship was his greatest joy.

Chuck leaves behind a legacy of wisdom, kindness, and an enduring passion for history that touched the lives of so many. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege to learn from him.

Chuck was predeceased by his son, Michael; parents, Frederic and Margaret; sister, Margaret Coon; and brothers, Frederic Jr. (Polly), Edward, Robert, and William. 

Surviving are his loving wife of 58 years, Barbara; sister, Jean (Robert) Metz of Syracuse; sisters-in-law, Carmela, Cheryl, and Josephine; and several nieces and nephews.

To celebrate Chuck’s life, relatives and friends are invited to gather on Thursday, January 16, 2025, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Buranich Funeral Home, 5431 W. Genesee St., Camillus.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated Friday, January 17, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. in St. Joseph’s Church, 5600 W. Genesee St., Camillus. 

Chuck will be laid to rest in Greenlawn Cemetery, Warners.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Joseph’s Food Pantry, 5600 W. Genesee St., Camillus, NY 13031, or to one’s favorite charity.