Joseph LaLonde
Dan McClelland
With a heavy heart, the family of Joseph LaLonde announce his passing. A graveside service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, November 2, 2024, at St. Alphonsus Cemetery in Tupper Lake, New York. A celebration of Joe’s life will follow at the VFW. Joseph Issac LaLonde, 84, of Tupper Lake, New York, passed away peacefully on October 17, 2024. Joe was born on October 30, 1939, in Tupper Lake, New York, the son of Francis Issac LaLonde and Mary Aldona McHugh. Joe was a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and cherished member of the Tupper Lake community.
Joe dedicated his life to serving his community. He retired from the State of New York, having worked as the Director of the Foster Grandparent Program and Senior Companion. He also served as the Village Judge of Tupper Lake, New York, and was President of the Board of Adirondack Federal Credit Union. Joe was a trusted leader, heading both the Civil Service Employees Association (CSEA) and the Public Employees Federation (PEF). Throughout his life, Joe served in many capacities, including as Village Trustee of Tupper Lake, New York. Joe also served as a fireman and proudly spent two years in the United States Army, where he worked as a cook.
In addition to his professional and community roles, Joe enjoyed a life filled with many passions. He was an avid fisherman, hunter, golfer, and spent time making fishing lures, cooking, and playing slow-pitch softball. He had a tradition of enjoying two Manhattans at 4:30 pm, a ritual that will be remembered fondly by those who loved him.
He is survived by his life partner, Diane Buntich; his children Lori Crouse, Brian LaLonde, and Tammie LaLonde; his daughter-in-law, Sherri LaLonde; and step-children Stephen Buntich and Jennifer Suitor. He was a proud grandfather to Ryan Root (Kim Bujold), Morgan Snyder (Scott Snyder), Krishtian LaLonde, Michael Kavanagh, and Liza Crouse. He was also a loving great-grandfather to Mallory Snyder, Cody Snyder, and Kylie Kavanagh. Joe is further survived by his siblings Mary Dattola (Jim Dattola) and William Wilson (Barb Wilson). He was predeceased by his parents and brother, Ivan LaLonde.
Family, friends, and community members are invited to share in remembering Joe and honoring his remarkable life and contributions.