Donald Stephen LaForge

Wellsville, NY - Donald Stephen LaForge, a long-time resident of Stannards, NY passed away on Thursday, December 9th 2010, after a brief illness.

Born November 5th, 1926 in Nile, NY, Don was the first born to Fanny May (Rogers) LaForge and John Robert LaForge. On July 4th 1947 he married Gloria Maxson.

Don graduated from Wellsville High School in 1945, and was a proud member of the undefeated Wellsville High School Lions football team in 1943. Don entered the Air Force in January of 1945, serving as a Navigator in

Squadron A-9.

Following WWII, Don returned to Wellsville, working at Sinclair Refining, but soon after went to work in the local automotive business, working at Hancock and Tomlinson, Hackett's Cadillac, Schmidt's and Pfunter's. Don volunteered as Assistant Scout Master for Willing Troop #7 for 10 years, and treasured his time with his scouts. Don served as a long-time councilman for the Town of Willing, as well as deputy supervisor.

In retirement, Don managed the Wellsville Office for the Aging Nutritional Site. A proud member and historian for Morrison B. Hayes American Legion, he was also a coordinator for the Alumni Association for a number of years. Don was also a past president and secretary of the Exchange Club, as well as the Wellsville Rod and Gun Club. He was active with the Thelma Rogers Historical Society, having served as president and vice president. His passion for local history and genealogy delighted us all. Don was also a devoted member of the Stannards Methodist Church.

He is pre-deceased by his parents, brother Victor LaForge, sister Janet Allen, daughter Rebecca Dawn Razey, and in-laws Lou Vossler, Kenneth Maxson, Alice Allen, and James "Bubby" Maxson.

He is survived by his wife, Gloria, daughter Roxie(Fred) Roliczek, sons Robert (Ronna) and Donald Jr. "Tink" (Joanne), and son-in-law Mark Razey. His family includes 8 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren whom he gave memories of Easter egg hunts, watermelon seed-spitting contests, camping, roasting marshmallows, and mountain pies.

Visiting hours are Monday December 13th from 2-4 pm and 7-9pm at the J.W. Embser Sons Funeral Home. The funeral will be Tuesday December 14th at 11am at the Stannards United Methodist Church. Donations can be made in his honor to the Stannards United Methodist Church.

Condolences may be left online at www.embserfuneralhome.com.