Newington Obituary: John Namnoum, 86

John James Namnoum, 86, beloved husband and soul mate of Lucille (Telesca) Namnoum, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, April 7, 2016.

Born in New Britain, he was the son of the late Joseph and Helen Namnoum. A devoted civic leader, John's life was marked by many achievements and accolades. He was a founding parishioner of the Church of the Holy Spirit and the Newington Friends of Football. He was honored with a Humanitarian Award from both the Kiwanis Club of Newington and the South End Democratic Organization. John served on the Newington Board of Education for seven years, and was also a Eucharistic Minister.

He dedicated his life to charitable causes and introduced combined health appeal to Central and Northern Hartford County. He worked tirelessly towards the eradication of Leukemia. A vibrant and charismatic leader, John served as the President of Central and Northern Leukemia Society of America for 18 years. He oversaw operations at two office locations and split the days of the week between Hartford County and Central Connecticut.

In his retirement, John was President of Lea's Foundation for Leukemia Research. In his free time, John enjoyed playing golf with friends and loved to plant fruits and vegetables in his beautiful garden. John will be remembered for his sharp intellect, warm and engaging smile, and adornment of his grandchildren. As the cornerstone of his family, John instilled the values of tradition, education and integrity. His legacy is as immense as it is timeless.

In addition to his wife, left to mourn his passing are his children: Jodie Jaffe and her husband, David, Deborah Namnoum, Dr. James Namnoum and his wife, Anne, Karen Sack and her husband, Stephen; his grandchildren: T. Spencer, A. Addison, Reid, Eliza, Hannah, Isabelle, Clayton, Emma, Grady, Lila, Lauren and Amanda; and a great-granddaughter, Mackenzie. John was predeceased by seven siblings.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Monday, April 11th from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Newington Memorial Funeral Home, 20 Bonair Ave., Newington, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30 a.m. at the Church of the Holy Spirit, Newington. He will be laid to rest in West Meadow Cemetery, Newington.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for donations be made to Lea's Foundation for Leukemia Research, 522 Grove Rd., Bldg. H, Bloomfield Ct. 06002 ATT: Penny Wills.

To share a message of sympathy, please visit us atwww.newingtonmemorial.com.