04/16/2026
John M. Haines
ROCHESTER, NY — March 29, 2026, at age 64.John is survived by his beloved partner and wife of 41 years, Michelle (Bowman); his son, Andrew; his brother, Bill (Sue) Haines; his father-in-law, Warren Bowman; his brother-in-law, Mark Bowman; his nephew, Billy Haines; and his nieces, Melissa (Dave) Phelps and Krista (Rob) Compton, as well as his great-nephews, Ethan and Zachary Compton and Dominic and Jacob Phelps. He was predeceased by his mother, Margaret Haines; his mother-in-law, Carol Bowman; and his sister-in-law, Cheryl Haines.
John began his career at Kodak, and like many in the late 1980s, found himself needing a new path. He went on to attend Monroe Community College, where he earned two associate degrees in both computer science and liberal arts. Even then, John stood out—not only as a dedicated student, but as Editor-in-Chief of the college newspaper and a DJ for the campus radio station, roles that reflected his creativity and his love of connecting with others.
Monroe Community College became far more than a place of study—it was John’s professional home for over 32 years. He retired September 2025 as a Custodial Supervisor, a position he earned through years of hard work, commitment, and leadership. John never limited himself to a job title. Throughout his career he served in different roles, such as a CSEA union representative, golf tournament fundraiser Organizer to support services for children, and facility advisor to the student Billiard's club. He took pride in making things better for those around him—whether by improving supply room systems, developing and implementing Brighton Campus key lockbox, setting up systems at new MCC downtown campus or helping launch and promote the college’s recycling program. John, a devoted father who treasured his time with Andrew. John volunteered as a Greece Recreation boys’ soccer assistant coach and served alongside his wife as a Cub Scouts co-den leader. He especially cherished their trips to Pennsylvania, where they organized and put on fireworks shows for family and friends—moments filled with laughter, pride, and lasting memories.
John felt most relaxed on the golf course, whether playing in a league or traveling for a round. One of his proudest moments was his hole-in-one in 2013 at Braemar Golf Course. He loved spending time with friends, sharing playful banter about sports rivalries or joking over who would get to take home more cupcakes.
A lifelong animal lover, John had a special gift with dogs—they seemed to instinctively trust him, always seeking him out for attention and affection. More than any role or accomplishment, John will be remembered for how he treated people. He believed in truly knowing those around him—taking time to talk, to listen, and to treat everyone with fairness and respect. His kindness, dedication, and steady presence left a lasting mark on all who knew him.
In true John fashion, he did not want a traditional, somber funeral. Instead, he hoped people would come together in remembrance—sharing stories, laughter, and the connections he valued so deeply. To honor his wishes, a Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, April 21, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Monroe Community College’s Brighton Campus (Monroe A/B; park in Lot M). At 5:30 p.m., friends, family, and colleagues are invited to share memories and stories—continuing the conversations John cherished and celebrating a life so well lived.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to either-
-Lung Cancer Research Foundation (LCRF), PO Box 780990, Philadelphia, PA 19178 , www.give.lungcancerresearchfoundation.org
-Monroe Community College Foundation, 1000 East Henriette Rd., Rochester, NY 14623, https://www.monroecc.edu/about-mcc/mcc-foundation/ under tribute gifts.
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