John A. Weeks, 96, a well-known naturalist, author and educator, passed on March 17, 2021. He received a bachelor’s degree from Cornell and master’s degree from Syracuse University.
John was a professor at Oswego State, where he founded the Rice Creek Field Station. In 1966 he developed the Rogers Environmental Education Center, and directed it until 1973. Next, he guided the development of the Beaver Lake Nature Center. John nurtured the creation of Baltimore Woods, in Marcellus, from a farm and woodlot.
With wife Esther (of 74 years), he resided in Marcellus for 37 years and attended Grace Chapel.
He is well known throughout CNY for his radio short on WRVO: “The Nature of Things.” His book, “Quiet Conversations,” contains select radio episodes. He was a skilled team developer, teacher and mentor to many. A talented wildlife illustrator and painter; skills he used to create environmental teaching exhibits. He created hundreds of wildlife paintings, illustrations and murals. Visitors can see some of John’s murals and paintings in the John A. Weeks Center at Baltimore Woods. Wife Esther passed in January 2021. He is survived by five children, three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
Calling hours are from 4 to 7 p.m. on Friday, June 25, with a memorial service at 11 a.m. on June 26. Both will be held at Christ Community UMC, 3474 Stiles Road, Syracuse, 13209. The memorial will be live on Facebook on Christ Community UMC Syracuse, 351. Send cards: H4H, PO Box 2208, Liverpool, NY 13089. Donations to Hope for Heather, Ovarian Cancer CNY.
