Obituary of LaVere A. Cortright

LaVere A. “Si” Cortright, 92, of Newark Valley passed away on June 22, 2014 at Cayuga Medical Center in Ithaca. Si was predeceased by his parents, Oral and Carrie Cortright; his wife, Bernece; brothers, Glen and Irving Cortright; sister-in-laws, Dessie and Norma Cortright; and brother-in-law, James Harders. He is survived by his son, Craig Cortright of Newark Valley; his daughter, Debra (Dale) Gregrow of Newark Valley; grandchildren, Dale Bernard Gregrow, Jr, Carrie Ann (Gregory) Maier, and Brandon Clark Gregrow; great granddaughters, Taylor and Joree Gregrow; along with several nieces, nephews and cousins. LaVere heroically served his county in WWII and was a former POW/MIA. LaVere was the last surviving POW/MIA from WWII from Tioga County. After the war, he returned home where he was a successful dairy farmer for over 60 years. LaVere was actively involved in the VFW Post #1371 Owego Ritual Team and he was a lifetime member. He continued to serve his community as the Town of Candor Fire Commissioner for over 50 years. On April 26, 2008 he was presented a plaque of appreciation, from the Candor Board of Fire Commissioners, for his 51 years of service as a commissioner with the Candor Fire District. LaVere was also a founding member of the Weltonville Fire Department. He was a life member of the DAV. Graveside services will be held on Thursday, June 26, 2014 at 11:00 AM at Hope Cemetery in Newark Valley where full military honors will be accorded. Memorial donations may be made in LaVere’s name to the Weltonville Fire Department, 3232 West Creek Road, Newark Valley, NY 13811 or VFW Post#1371, 207 Main St., Owego, NY 13827.