Kermit V. Lafave

Barneveld- Kermit V. LaFave, 85, of Mapledale Road, husband of Loretta, gently passed into the arms of God, on Wednesday, July 8, 2015, while surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Malone, on March 25, 1930, a son of Nelson and Edna Degon LaFave, and grew up in the Malone and Tupper Lake areas, before moving to Utica with his family early in his life. He graduated from Utica Free Academy, with the Class of 1948, at which time he was employed at the Boston Store in downtown Utica. From 1948 through 1950, when he was honorably discharged, Mr. LaFave served his country in the U.S. Navy during, where he was stationed on the USS Leyte. Later in life, Mr. LaFave graduated from Empire State College, where he earned a Bachelor Degree in Fine and Commercial Arts. Kermit continued his career with Anderson Hutchins and Seeds Advertising Agency, Utica, where he perfected his skills in commercial advertising and rose to the level of Vice President. Afterwards he joined Todd Displays, beginning as Pesident and CEO. In the early 1970's Mr. LaFave founded his own advertising and display company, Kayel Associates, of Utica, which he operated for several years. After that he began his second career as a teacher of Life Skills for B.O.C.E.S. of New Hartford. He also was a teacher for Oneida County Corrections Program and he taught art at M.V.C.C. Utica. He retired in 2008. On May 1, 1954, Kermit was united in marriage with Loretta Vashio at St. Anthony's Church of Utica. After that the couple lived in Utica, before moving to Barneveld, in 1964. Kermit was a member of St. Leo and St. Ann Catholic Parish of Holland Patent. In addition to his wife, Loretta, Kermit is survived by one daughter Karen Loucks, Rome, two sons and daughters in law, Paul (Teresa) LaFave, East Amherst, NY, Andre N. LaFave (Kathryn) LaFave, Remsen, eleven grandchildren, nine great grandchildren and one great great granddaughter and one sister, Audrey LaFave, Florida. If you knew Kermit, you loved Kermit. He benefited every life he touched by his caring and loving spirit. His Mass of Christian Burial will be Monday, July 20, 2015, at 11:00 A.M. at St. Leo and St. Ann Church, Holland Patent, with entombment to follow in Calvary Cemetery, Utica. Calling hours are Sunday, July 19, 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. at Trainor Funeral Home, Inc. 143 Schuyler St. Boonville. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer's Association 441 West Kirkpatrick Street, Syracuse, NY 13204.