John “Jack” Finegan

Jack was born in Saranac Lake in 1930 to Fletcher Finegan and Eleanor Marie Leahy. His early years were spent on the farm, playing hockey and enjoying himself.

After graduating from Saranac Lake High School, Jack went to work for the FBI in Washington, D.C. then in Albany.

Jack returned from his G-Man adventures and married the love of his life, Mary James, in 1957. Truly a match made in heaven. He then went on to manage the Adirondack Airport for 35 years, starting in 1960.

In 1960 Jack and his brother Dick became manager and assistant manager of the Adirondack Airport. The airport was so quiet at the time that the two brothers bought an airplane so the airport would have a resident plane. Jack came into contact with a vast array of interesting people. He helped to grow the airport, eventually wrangling an instrument landing system out of the FAA, which helped to build up air service and the number of visitors to the area.

Jack was predeceased by his wife Mary in 2010, which absolutely broke his heart. He was also predeceased by his brother Richard, sister Helen Marie and firstborn son Fletcher. He is survived by: his son Michael, son David, daughter Patricia, son Robert and his array of grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held at Fortune-Keough Funeral Home in Saranac Lake on Wednesday, June 25, from 4 until 6 p.m. A funeral mass will be at St. Bernard’s Church on Thursday, June 26 at 11 a.m.

Anyone who feels inclined to make a donation may consider contributions to: St. Bernard’s Church, Saranac Lake Voluntary Health Association, Mayo Continuing Care, or whatever organization you personally feel needs your support. Family and friends can also share their condolences and memories at fortunekeoughfuneralhome.com.