John Thomas Ida

John Thomas “Maj” Ida, 96, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on January 24, 2026. Born on July 28, 1929, in Witherbee, New York, he was the son of the late Michael and Catherine Grande Ida. He lived a long and remarkable life marked by intellectual curiosity, professional achievement, and a deep appreciation for the world around him.

John graduated from Mineville High School excelling in academics and sports. He was awarded a football scholarship and continued his education at Clarkson College of Technology earning a degree in electrical engineering in 1951.  His academic pursuits laid the foundation for more than thirty-eight years at General Electric as a rocket and turbine scientist. His work contributed to advancements that helped shape modern aerospace and power generation. On April 12th, 1958, John married Anne O’Connor in Albany, NY and they raised their two sons in Clifton Park, New York.  After retiring, he wintered in South Padre Island, Texas filling his days with golf and bocci.

Throughout his life, John believed in the value of saving old things and could fix almost anything with a little tape, glue, or patience. He was an avid reader of The Wall Street Journal, and he took great interest in investing, always keeping a keen eye on the markets. He found joy and peace in gardening and cooking Italian food, celebrating each meal. He loved to spend time with his family and friends, and was always quick with a joke. In recent years, he enjoyed living on the Outer Banks with his son, daughter-in-law, grandson and his canine companions. He was an avid bridge player and shared the love of the game with his grandson, Joseph, with whom he played weekly at the Duck Woods CC in Southern Shores, NC.

Survivors include his loving son, Robert (Mary Ann) Ida of Southern Shores, North Carolina; grandchildren, Joseph Ida, Stefanie (Kevin) Galang, Katherine (Tom) Ida Gartland and Julia Ida; great-grandson, Simon Gartland; daughter-in-law, Margaret Ida; and several nieces and nephews.  In addition to his parents and his wife Anne, he was predeceased in death by his loving son, Jed Ida, on June 14, 2020; his brothers, Patrick, Joseph, Frank, Dominick, Louis Ida; and his sister, Rose Dominguez.

A celebration of John’s life will be held this summer in Clifton Park, New York. This gathering will honor his memory and the many ways he touched the lives of those who knew him.  May his memory bring comfort to all who were fortunate enough to share in his journey.

Please share condolences with the family at gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services, Inc. was entrusted with arrangements.