Michael A Gettman

Michael Alan Gettman, 86, went peacefully to be with his Savior on the evening of October 20, 2025, in his home, with his daughters by his side. 

Mike was born on November 21, 1938, in Syracuse, New York, to Charles and Anne Marie (Dwyer) Gettman. He graduated from Solvay High School, attended SUNY ESF, and proudly served in the United States Army. He later married Patricia Ann Ivie and had three children.

Mike went on to have a distinguished career as a Principal Software Engineer, working for General Electric, Control Data Corporation, Martin Marietta, and Lockheed Martin, programming the fastest supercomputers of his time. However, he retired early to pursue his true passion, serving God in full-time ministry.

His ministries took many forms, including teaching Sunday School, serving as church treasurer, running the sound booth, and managing all things computer-related for the Mars Hill Network and his home churches, Syracuse Alliance, LaFayette Alliance, and North Syracuse Baptist.

A man of many talents and interests, he earned his Commercial Pilot’s License, enjoyed skydiving, coached Little League hockey, fixed cars, and reveled in riding his motorcycle (both on and off road). He loved attending motocross events and air shows, and often took his family boating and water-skiing on weekends.

Mike leaves behind his wife, Patricia, and their three children, Daniel, Kathleen, and Mary Smid (Hans). He was a proud grandfather to Benjamin and Samuel. He is survived by his brothers, John “Ripper” (Judy) and Patrick (Sue), as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family members. Mike was predeceased by his older brother, Charles “Chuck,” his wife, Noel, and their daughter, Leslie.

Mike will be remembered for his faith in God and the truth of His Word, his dedication to church ministries, his patriotism, humor, and willingness to help others. There was nothing he couldn’t fix or wasn’t willing to try — you just had to call.

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Services

Private Burial Service with Military Honors Tuesday, October 28, 2025 Onondaga County Veterans Cemetery

Celebration of Life Service and Reception Friday, November 21, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. LaFayette Alliance Church 6069 US-20, LaFayette, NY 13084 (315) 677-9810

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In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Mike’s name to:

· Mars Hill Network

· LaFayette Alliance Church

· Hospice of Central New York

Arrangements entrusted to: Ballweg & Lunsford Funeral Home, LaFayette