John Michael LaVine

John Michael LaVine, age 73, beloved father, grandfather, brother and Retired United States Navy Veteran, passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, August 24, 2025, at the Sitrin Home in New Hartford, where he has resided these past five years.

Born in Syracuse on February 19, 1952, John was the son of the late John H. and Sandra (Swindon) LaVine. He was raised and educated in Rome and as a teenager worked alongside his father in his contracting business. After graduating with the RFA Class of 1970, John went on to enlist with the United States Army, which he served with for two years.

After returning home to Rome, John went to work with Revere Copper & Brass but after the company underwent some changes in 1975, John re-enlisted in the service, this time with the United States Navy. He would go on to have a long career in the military until his retirement in 1994 as a Machinist’s Mate Petty Officer First Class. During his retirement years, he worked for Phillips Lighting in Bath, NY.

John was a proud member of the VFW and of various American Legions, with his longest membership at the John P. Eaton Post 746 in Corning, NY where he was a Past Commander from 2005-2006. He was also a longtime member of the Steczko Post in Rome, NY.

Aside from his working years and his social life, John’s first and foremost priority was always the well-being of his daughters. He was their rock and their stability. As the consummate provider, he offered them advice and endless amounts of love, all while making sure their every need was met.

Anyone who knew John would say that he was an incredible person with an easy-going personality. He was also a complete jokester who never took life too seriously! In his spare time, he enjoyed reading Westerns and cheering for his beloved New York Yankees. His presence will be missed but his legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

He is survived by his daughters, Vicki LaVine of Ava and Dawn LaVine of Rome; his grandsons, Brice Eastman (Tori Wright) of Rome and Braden Eastman of Ava; his step-granddaughter, Lindsay Allen (Mikael Stapleton) and his great-granddaughter, Sadie, all of Horseheads, NY. As the oldest of eight children, John also leaves his siblings, Debra (Jack) Ungleich of Mexico, NY, Michele LaRoy of Rome, Stephen LaVine of Rome, Carolyn (Randy) Smith of Lee, Linda (Alan) Davies of North Carolina, Sandra (Rick) Stoquert of Camden and Christopher (Amanda) LaVine of North Carolina; along with a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and extended family members.

Aside from his parents, John was predeceased by his brother-in-law, Richard LaRoy.

Friends and relatives are invited to attend visitation for John on Tuesday, September 2, 2025 from 3:00PM – 5:00PM at the Barry Funeral Home, 807 West Chestnut Street, Rome, NY (315) 337-0055. John’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Tuesday at 5:00PM at the funeral home, immediately upon the conclusion of visitation. Prayers will be offered by Fr. Sean O’Brien and full military honors will be accorded by the US Navy.

In lieu of flowers, for those wishing to do so, please consider memorial contributions to the Disabled American Veterans, 407 East Dominick Street, Rome, NY 13440. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

The LaVine family has entrusted the care of their beloved father to the Barry Funeral Home, Nick Iselo and Marty Ciaccia, Funeral Directors. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.barryfuneralhome.com.