Obituary of Ernest R. LaFever

Ernest R. LaFever, age 90 of Lewiston NY, died Sunday, May 6, 2018, at his residence under the loving care of his family and Niagara Hospice.

Ernest was born December 20, 1927 in Springville, NY, the son of the late Leason and Agnes (Jobe) LaFever. A WW II Veteran, he served with the Merchant Marines before entering the U.S. Army in February of 1946. In August of 1947 Ernest was honorably discharged with the rank of Sergeant. After his discharge he worked in law enforcement. He was a member of the Buffalo Police Department and then the New York State Troopers before moving to Florida and working as a Palm Beach County Undersheriff. Ernest returned to New York and was employed as a Manager of the Traffic Control Division of NY Wire. At the age of 50 Ernest received his law degree from George Mason University. From 1961 to 1972 he owned and operated the Porter Hotel in Ransomville.

Ernest was a member and former president of the Youngstown Lion's Club. He was a former member of the Portville American Legion and the Weston Mills Fire Company, and had served as a Niagara County Chairman of the Democratic Party. Ernest was also honored with his name inscribed on the Buffalo Naval Park's Wall of Honor for his service with the Merchant Marines. He loved being a handyman and builder. He was very resourceful and was an avid poker player.

He is survived by his wife, Vicki Wlock; his children, George, Michael (Joan), Raymond (Barbara), Christopher (Lori), Chad (Darcie), and Michele LaFever, George (Stephanie) and Jason Churakos; 17 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren; a sister, Arlene Balus; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by three sisters, Patricia, Wilma, and Marjorie and a brother, Bernard.

Friends may call at HARDISON FUNERAL HOME, N. Fourth & Ridge Streets, Lewiston on Thursday from 4 - 7 pm. Funeral Services will be held Friday, May 11, at 11:00 AM in the funeral home. Burial with Military Honors will follow in Holy Trinity RC Cemetery, Lewiston. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Niagara Hospice, 4675 Sunset Dr., Lockport, NY 14094.