Giacomo ‘ Jack’ Speno

Giacomo 'Jack' Speno, 90, of Auburn, passed away peacefully early Wednesday morning, August 20, 2025, in the comfort of his home, with his loving daughter, Barbara Joy at his bedside.  He was a lifelong resident of Auburn, the son of the late Joseph and Mildred (Gazelle) Speno.

 Jack served our country honorably in the Army during the Korean War era. He owned and operated several service stations, Vic & Jack's, for many years at multiple locations in Auburn. He was a longtime parishioner of St. Alphonsus Church and a former 4th-degree member of the Knights of Columbus. Jack’s love for his community and passion for motorsports led him to become the longtime curator and caretaker of the Northeast Dirt Modified Museum and Hall of Fame in Weedsport, a position he held for over 30 years.

 Jack’s vast knowledge of cars, mechanics, landscaping, and horses made him a true "jack-of-all-trades." His expertise in these areas, paired with his natural warmth and enthusiasm, allowed him to tackle any challenge with unmatched skill and passion. He was always eager to share his wisdom and lend a helping hand, fostering lasting friendships and earning the respect of everyone he met. Jack leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, and unyielding strength that will echo for years to come. He was a man who built his life through dedication, humility, and heart. Generous to a fault, Jack would give anyone the shirt off his back, always putting others first. Above all, Jack’s greatest accomplishment was the love he gave to his family. His unwavering devotion to them was the foundation of everything he did. The deep bonds he formed and the sacrifices he made for those he loved are his lasting legacy. His memory will live on not just in the lives he touched, but in the hearts of his family, who were the true center of his world.

 He is survived by his loving children: daughter Barbara (Michael) Walsh; two sons, John (Tammy) Speno and David Speno; daughter-in-law Gina Speno; eight grandchildren, Lauren (Jessica) Walsh, Alyssa (Michael) Collins, Joe (Lindsey) Gagliano, Jennifer Speno, John Speno Jr., Erin Speno, Justin Speno (Carrie Mattes), and Sarah Speno; great-grandchildren Giacomo 'Jack,' Quincy, Joey, Evelyn, Madison, Maryssa, Mason, Mara, Malachi, Sophia, Ava, Raegan, and Jayden; a great-great-grandson, Damon; two siblings, brothers Pat (Joan) and Edward Speno and sister Rena (Rick) Spanbauer; as well as, several nieces, nephews, and cousins; and his dear friend Mike “George” Hearn.

 In addition to his parents, Jack was predeceased by two sons, Joe and Jack Speno Jr.; former spouse and mother of his children, Joy Speno; mother-in-law and father-in-law John and Barbara Buonocore; sister-in-law Mary Ann Speno; and two brothers-in-law, Tom and John Buonocore.  He leaves behind many loving family members and loyal friends who will dearly miss him.

 Calling hours will be held this Tuesday, August 26th, from 4 to 7 P.M. at Pettigrass Funeral Home, 196 Genesee St., Auburn. Jack's Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday, August 27th, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Alphonsus Church, with the Rev. Louis Vasile as celebrant. Burial will follow in St. Joseph's Cemetery.

 The family would like to thank the fourth floor medical staff at Auburn Community Hospital, including Dr. Daniel Rossi, and Hospice of CNY for their compassionate care and support during Jack's final days. Their dedication and kindness brought comfort to both Jack and his family.

 In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Jack's memory to the Leukemia Society, Hospice of CNY, Nick’s Ride or the Multiple Sclerosis Resources of CNY, Inc.

“To live in the hearts of others is to live forever.”

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