MAYFIELD - George LaFontaine Jr., 79, passed away on Tuesday, September 5, 2023 following a short illness.
Born June 27, 1944, in Albany, NY to Ann & George LaFontaine Sr, George was a 1962 graduate of Cardinal McCloskey High School. He immediately entered the work force at Tobin Packing, and later had a long career as a lineman for Verizon.
On June 4, 1966, he married the love of his life Catherine R. Lawlor, known to all as 'Rose', who he affectionately called 'RZ.' They were the best of friends, and recently celebrated their 57th anniversary.
George & Rose welcomed their first son John in 1967 and soon after, moved to Rotterdam, where they welcomed their second son George in 1969. A hard-working, humble man, George worked tirelessly to provide for his family and give them the best experiences he could, which often involved ball games and road trips. They had many family friends who joined them in their adventures and were a big part of building precious memories. Later, George & Rose traveled extensively, and he took it all in. If you were lucky enough to tag along on one of their adventures, you could bet you were going to have an experience to remember. He absolutely loved sharing places with his friends and family; he loved seeing you see it for the first time. It brought him so much joy.
He loved a good movie, and of course loved watching his beloved New York Yankees. But, of all the athletes that he admired, none held a candle to his three grandchildren: Jordan, Taryn & Delaney. All talented athletes, they provided plenty of entertainment and served as an enormous source of pride. You could always find George in his folding chair, watching carefully. He was attentive to every second of every game, and afterward could've done a highlights reel because he had it all memorized. He was a constant presence at their other events, as well, such as band concerts, awards ceremonies and graduations.
After spending much of their life in Rotterdam, George & Rose moved to Mayfield, on the Great Sacandaga Lake, to be near family. George embraced the area, and when their big traveling days had come to an end, George was quite content with a drive around the lake with '60s Gold on the radio, and his best friend RZ by his side. He was grateful for simple pleasures, like a neatly mowed lawn and a hot cup of black coffee. With his family around him, gathering for pizza every Friday night, George considered himself one lucky guy.
George was predeceased by his sisters Shirley Gerasia and Mitzi Haller. He is survived by his wife Rose, sons John and George, daughter-in-law Julie, grandchildren Jordan, Taryn & Delaney, great-grandson Wes, as well as several nephews.
The family will be honoring George's life privately; there will be no calling hours or services.
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