Obituary of Donald F. Lasher

Lifelong resident of Fort Johnson, Donald Francis Lasher (Don) died of natural causes on January 1, 2017 with family at his side. He is survived by his third wife, Helen Gallant of Tucson Arizona where they spent the winters. He was born June 18, 1929, the second child of Lawrence Homer Lasher and Frances Holstrom Lasher. He is predeceased by his brother Lawrence (Evelyn) and is survived by his younger brother James (Karen). Don was predeceased by his wife of 44 years, Betty Lasher (born Elizabeth Joyce Colson). They had six daughters: Susan Naple (Bill), Mary Lee Kokocki (Anthony), Laurie Radke, Grace Bramer (Scott), Bonnie Kimmel (John) and Beth Lasher. He also had eight grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren and seven step-children. His second wife, Yvonne Harnish also predeceased him. Don served in the US Army with pride. He had a lifelong interest in machinery and anything with an engine. He owned and worked on cars, trucks, tractors, bulldozers, excavators and more. He was very creative, and enjoyed repurposing and creating new things. He always enjoyed himself; he had a great sense of humor. In his retirement he traveled: he went down the Mississippi in his RV, and went to New Zealand, Europe, Hawaii, and many other places. Don was deeply loved by his family and friends and will be greatly missed. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to any children's charity or to Mountain Valley Hospice, 108 Steele Avenue, Gloversville, NY 12068. A memorial service will be held on January 21, 2016 at 2:00p.m. at the United Methodist Church of Amsterdam, 347 Golf Course Road. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Private burial will take place in Fairview Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Betz, Rossi & Bellinger Family Funeral Home, 171 Guy Park Avenue, Amsterdam.