Eileen Mary Gannon Obituary: Syracuse Ice Cream Icon and Founder of Gannon’s Ice Cream
Eileen Mary Gannon of Syracuse, New York, passed away on Sunday, May 17, at the age of 68.
She was best known as the co-founder of Gannon’s Ice Cream, a beloved Central New York institution that became a seasonal tradition for generations of families.
Her passing marks the end of an era for a business and community landmark often referred to as a “Syracuse staple.”
Eileen Gannon helped build Gannon’s Ice Cream in 1982 alongside her brother, John Gannon, turning a small idea into one of the region’s most recognizable summer destinations.
What began as a modest stand on family property quickly grew into a local favorite known for generous portions, creative flavors, and long summer lines that brought together people from all walks of life.
She once reflected on the business in a 1994 interview, saying she enjoyed how ice cream brought people together:
“When people come to get ice cream, everybody stands in line… from the man who mows his lawn to the man with the doctorate, from the 5-year-old child to the 76-year-old man.”
Over the years, Gannon’s became more than just an ice cream stand—it became part of Syracuse’s seasonal identity, marking the arrival of spring after long winters.
Charlie Miller of syracuse.com | The Post-Standard once described her as “Syracuse’s Willy Wonka,” a reflection of her creativity and the playful spirit she brought to her work.
Eileen was born in Syracuse to the late William and Nancy (Culhane) Gannon. She graduated from Most Holy Rosary High School and later attended York College of Pennsylvania.
Her passion for ice cream began early in life, shaped by childhood memories of visits to local tearooms and ice cream sodas with her mother.
After college, she and her brother decided to build something of their own. She trained at Penn State and learned ice cream production, bringing new ideas and flavors back home to Syracuse.
Under her leadership, Gannon’s expanded beyond soft serve into unique flavors such as chocolate raspberry truffle, “Cuse Trax,” and “Marty’s Marshmallow,” drawing growing crowds each season.
A second location later opened on McDonald Road in Onondaga in 2000, further establishing Gannon’s as a regional favorite.
Beyond her business, Eileen was known for her warmth, generosity, and deep connection to the Syracuse community. She supported local causes and remained closely tied to the city she called home throughout her life.
She was also known for her strong loyalty to her family, her friends, and the New York Yankees.
Eileen is survived by her sister Mary Beth of Syracuse; her brothers Timothy (Angela), Thomas (Anne), David, Matthew, John (Emily), Joseph, and Daniel (Michelle); and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and lifelong friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Nancy Gannon, and her brother Martin.
A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, May 22, at Most Holy Rosary Church in Syracuse, New York.
Calling hours will be held Thursday, May 21, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the church.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Most Holy Rosary Foundation or Sarah’s Guest House.
Arrangements are being handled by Butler-Badman Funeral Home, Inc.
