Gary W. Lamora

Gary Wayne LaMora, 77, of Morrisonville, NY, passed away unexpectedly on November 3, 2023, at CVPH. He was born May 31, 1946 in Plattsburgh, NY to Edward and Anna (Liberty) LaMora. He was predeceased by both parents and 8 of his 9 siblings. He is survived by his brother Charles “Ronald or Gramps” LaMora and his wife Sally, who live in Virginia Beach, VA. His siblings included Joan (Clem) Facteau, Gerald (Janet) LaMora, James “Jimmy” LaMora, Beverly (Forrest) Cleland, Frances “Mugs” LaMora, Patricia (Bill) Phillips, Judy (Hermon) Favreau, and Rita Roberts. Gary was the baby of the family and had to learn to be tough at a young age. He was also predeceased by in-laws Winfred and Belva Collins, Linda Held (sister-in-law), Kurmit Bailey (brother-in-law), Carlton Rounds (brother-in-law), and Casey LaMora (daughter-in-law).  Gary attended the Assumption of Mary school in Redford, NY until 8th grade. He enlisted in the United States Navy at 17 and served in the Vietnam War. While he was in the Navy, he obtained his GED. He was awarded the National Defense Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with three bronze stars, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal. He served on the USS Kennebec as a Boatswain’s Mate 2.   He happily married Mary Ellen Collins on October 5, 1968, and they spent 55 years together raising Jerry, Carrie, and twins Kevin and Ken. Gary started at Diamond National, then Diamond International and later became known as Pactiv and worked there for 45 years. He was dedicated to helping employees and was a strong advocate and representative for employees in their union. He retired from Pactiv in 2013. He was most proud of being Commander of VFW Post 125 for the past 8 years. He officially retired from the VFW on July 1, 2023.  Gary is survived by his children Jerry (Lina) LaMora, who resides in Temecula, CA, Carrie (Phil) Avanzato from Peru, NY, Kevin LaMora and his companion Grace Novelli of Dannemora, NY, and Kenneth (Tammy) LaMora from Morrisonville, NY. Surviving in-laws include Loretta (Robert) Breyette from West Chazy, NY, Ann Rounds, a favorite sister-in-law from Lyon Mountain, her companion Mike Backus, and Rebecca Bailey from Cullman, AL. Grandchildren include Rebecca Dewhurst from West Chazy, Justin (Gina) LaMora, Rachel (Justin) Wade, Amanda Avanzato, Zachary Avanzato, Joshua Avanzato, Taylor Avanzato, Kyle LaMora, Colin LaMora, Brody LaMora, Maggie LaMora and 5 great-grandchildren: Christian and Austin LaMora from CA, Olivia Wade from Idaho, Grayson Avanzato and Korben LaMora from Peru, NY.  Gary was a loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather. Gary’s life was full of family, friendships and fun. Many days he could be found reminiscing with friends at the “V.” He was outgoing and the life of the party. He was a lifetime member of the American Legion in Lyon Mountain and VFW Post 125. Gary’s sense of duty and dedication during his time in the US Navy, where he served gallantly during the Vietnam War, and his unwavering commitment to his country and fellow servicemen exemplified his character and strength. Gary was very knowledgeable of veterans' benefits and would go out of his way to ensure all veterans received their full rights.   Recently, Gary enjoyed supervising and playing boss with his sons and grandson Kyle, cutting and splitting firewood. He loved to sit outside in the sun, listening to country music, and chatting with his neighbors and friends. He especially loved the song by James Brown, “I Feel Good”. He took great care of and enjoyed the antics of his three cats: Whiskers, Lewis and Clark. Gary was quite the character and will be sorely missed by many people.   At Gary’s request, arrangements will be made by Brown Funeral Home and the family will have a celebration of life with the military honor guard at VFW POST 125 on Boynton Avenue on Friday, November 10, from 2-6 pm. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to VFW POST 125 to be forwarded to the VFW National Home for children and families. The family would like to thank his VFW coworkers and friends for their support and kindness. To share a memory or condolence with the family, please visit www.brownfuneralhomeinc.com.