Darrell LaVere Updike

Went to be with the Lord on Friday December 13, 2024 at home in the care of his loving family following declining health. Born in 1936 in Elmira; LaVere was the son of the late Lynn & Marie Congdon Updike. LaVere served in the U.S. Army after graduating from Troy High School. LaVere married Edith Louise Borg in 1959 and they shared 65 love filled years. He was employed for many years as a machinist at Hardinge Inc. LaVere was a longtime member of the Gillett Baptist Church where he served as a Deacon, Trustee and sang in the choir. LaVere enjoyed plants and spent many hours in his beloved greenhouse. Music was also a large part of LaVere's life, and he sang in the EBOs, Men's choir and Common Time. He was a member of "The Amigos" and sang with them at many of the local nursing homes. Surviving is his loving family, wife and companion Louise along with their children, Stephen (Paula) Updike, Wendell Updike, Laurie (David) Young, and Jennifer (Jeff) Packard; 8 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren, nieces and nephews; brothers; Marshall (Janice) Updike, and Grover Updike. In addition to his parents, LaVere was predeceased by a brother, Duane (Linda) Updike; and sister-in-law, Sandy Updike. A heartfelt thanks to special friend Ginger Kostecky, the VA nurses and the Hospice team. You all were such a blessing! A memorial service for LaVere will be held on January 4 th, 2025 at Gillett Baptist Church. Calling hours will be from 1:00 to 3:00. LaVere's service will be held at the conclusion of calling hours with his pastor and friend, Micky Cavanaugh, officiating. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Gillett Baptist Church.