Bruce LaVoy, 77
Bruce LaVoy died on the morning on April 8, 2025 at 77 years old. Bruce was born on July 23, 1947 in Malone, New York, son of Edmond and Ann LaVoy, now deceased.
Bruce was a native Tupper Laker who grew up as a “junction kid” and graduated from Tupper Lake High School in 1965. He studied Forestry at Paul Smith's College and graduated in 1967. He was active in the Forestry club, Woodsman's team and the Boy Scout Fraternity (APO).
The next four years Bruce spent in the US Navy. He was fond of saying he went into the Navy peeling potatoes and came out as leading petty officer on the flight deck of the U.S.S. Inchon. He was assigned to the battle group flight safety team which visited other ships and advised on flight operation procedures. He attended the Navy Jungle warfare school in Panama, was designated “Jungle Expert” and was assigned as squad leader in the battalion landing team which was a Navy team trained and equipped to support marine expeditionary forces.
Next he attended the University of Michigan for his B.S. in Forestry in 1973. While there he was a member of the University Woodsmen's team which competed throughout the Midwest. He was also a member of the Society of Les Voyageurs, a group dedicated to canoe racing.
After completing school Bruce returned to Tupper Lake where he met Jane Sivers, a teacher at Sunmount. Jane and Bruce married on July 31, 1976, and together raised two sons, Loren and Todd.
Bruce began his career with various logging crews and major timber companies within the forest industry. He later transitioned to serve as an appraiser of forestland for the New York State Office of Real Property, where he dedicated the final 30 years of his professional life.
Bruce and Jane played a significant role in the Tupper Lake Woodsmen's Association, with Bruce holding a position on the Board of Directors. He dedicated numerous years to the organization and promotion of field days. Bruce devoted considerable time and effort to assist community members, earning the title of Tupper Lake Citizen of the Year in 2010. His ongoing commitment to supporting others left a lasting impact on the Tupper Lake community.
Bruce and Jane were dedicated supporters of the Boy Scouts. Their hard work and commitment to the organization did not go unnoticed. As a result they twice received the Adirondack Scout Council’s Bedford District Husband and Wife Award. This accolade highlighted their significant contributions and enthusiasm for fostering the development of young scouts, ranging from assisting in the creation of floats for the Woodsman's Day Parade to mentoring scouts on their journey to achieving the rank of Eagle Scout.
Ever the Boy Scout, he enjoyed being an Adirondack story teller, who brought life to tall tales around a campfire or fireplace. His passion for storytelling captured the imagination of everyone listening. Bruce had a special way of bringing tales to life.
Bruce cherished moments spent with family, had a passion for all kinds of boats, and found joy in trout fishing. He also took pleasure in making maple syrup, sharing his knowledge of apple cider production, and relished the camaraderie found at hunting camp.
Bruce is survived by his son Loren and daughter-in-law Karen from College Park, MD, along with their two sons, Logan and Kaylon. Additionally, he leaves behind his son Todd and his wife Christina of Portsmouth, VA, and their twins, Annica and Pfeifer. His siblings include his sister Rosanne LaVoy of Bolinas, CA, and his brother Walter LaVoy and his wife Julie from Tupper Lake.
His family would like to invite the members of the community to celebrate Bruce’s life at Frary funeral home at 24 Cliff Ave Tupper Lake on Wednesday April 23. Calling Hours will be from 4 to 6pm. A mass will be held on Thursday the 24th at 10a.m .for anyone who can attend.
Following the calling hours, there will be a reception at Racquet River Brewing Company (11 Balsam St, Tupper Lake) for any and all who want to attend.