Jean Marie Caletka (Huggler), lovingly known to so many as “Mrs. C” and “Mema,” of Endicott, NY, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones on May 11, 2026, at the age of 89. Born on April 10, 1937, in Newton, PA, Jean lived a life centered around peace, love and joy.
Jean was predeceased by her husband, Joseph Caletka; parents, Emil and Elizabeth Huggler; her sister, Genevieve Huggler; and her brothers, Thomas Huggler and Melvin Huggler. She is survived by her children: David Caletka and wife Pamela, Mark Caletka and wife Patricia, Amy Radulski and husband Edward, and Timothy Caletka and wife Stacey; her grandchildren, Shauna Caletka, Joseph Radulski, Elizabeth Jenkins (Caletka), Paul Caletka, Melanie Caletka, Mackenzie Caletka, and Adam Caletka; sister-in-law Sarah Huggler; along with several great- grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many beloved friends.
Jean shared a beautiful love story with her husband, Joe “Bepop,” who passed away in 2020. Married in 1957, they built a life centered around family, traditions, laughter, and simple joys. Whether it was bus trips, camping adventures, traveling, entertaining friends, or quiet evenings together, their love was something everyone around them could feel. Together, they created a home full of warmth, comfort, and unforgettable memories. Jean loved to travel, adored ladybugs, treasured her jewelry, and found joy in cooking and baking. She was the heart of every holiday and family gathering, known for her beautiful decorations and desserts, especially her famous rum cake. Family meant everything to her, and she loved them fiercely. She never missed a school event, activities, or important milestones, always showing up with love, support, and pride. Some of the family’s favorite memories were made during summers camping at Greenwood with Mema and Bepop, filled with pancake breakfasts, campfires, bike rides through the campground, and evenings spent surrounded by family and friends. Her brother Mel, who sadly passed away just hours after her, was always there keeping the kids laughing and entertained.
Jean will also be remembered for her involvement in her church community, where she spent many years volunteering and helping run the church bazaar pizza frite stand. Many knew her as the “Hallmark lady” from her years working at the Hallmark store in the Oakdale Mall, and family fondly remembers visits to the Lourdes Café, where she loved treating them to her beloved milkshakes.
Though she will be deeply missed, the traditions she created, the love she gave, and the memories she leaves behind will continue to live on in all who knew and loved her.
The family extends a sincere heartfelt thank-you to the staff at Home Instead for the outstanding care and compassion they provided Jean over the past several years.
Funeral services will be held at St. James Church, where a Funeral Mass will be offered on May 29th at 11am. The family will receive friends at the church from 10 to 11am prior to the funeral mass.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in memory of Jean may be made to St. Joseph's Church, St. James Church, Mercy House of the Southern Tier, Food Bank of the Southern Tier, Catholic Schools of Broome County, or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.