Michael T. Lamphere

FAIRFIELD – Michael T. Lamphere, 51, formerly of Academy Walk, passed away on February 26, 2025 after a brief illness with the love and comfort of his family surrounding him at St. Joseph's Health Hospital, Syracuse. Michael was born on October 18, 1973, a son of the late Franklin and Dorothy (Huckabone) Lamphere. He received his education from West Canada Valley Central School and BOCES, graduating with the W.C.V. Class of 1995. Michael attended activities at the Gail W. Brown Center in Herkimer where he was a proud member of the "Gentlemen's Group". He enjoyed bowling and participated in many sporting events at the Special Olympics and won numerous medals. Michael loved wrestling, he enjoyed attending matches and receiving signed photos from different wrestlers. Always a jokester, Mike loved a good prank. On the dance floor, no one could match his moves. Anyone who knew Mike, knew that if you had something, he thought it was his. It would suddenly come up missing and he would smile and walk away. He truly loved everyone and everything. Michael is survived by a brother, Kevin Lamphere of Syracuse; a sister, Melissa (Philip) Bolton of Middleville, with whom he resided with for over 3 years; nieces, Kim (Tim), Renee, Alexys (Adrian), Olivia, Klohie, Jorja, and Bella; and nephews, Matthew (Hannah), Andrew (Jared), and Philip (Mari). He was also a great-uncle to nieces, Lucille, Vivienne, Valentina, and Sydney. Mike is also survived by his ARC family who loved him like he was one of their own, as well as his ARC family at Hillview, Alicia, Lois, Susan, Dan, and Heidi. In addition to his parents, Michael is predeceased by his dear friend Tom, and his dog Isaac. The family wishes to thank Dr. Kachare for his excellent care. They would especially like to thank the Little Falls E.R. and St. Joseph's Health Hospital, Unit 2-4, for their outstanding care and compassion. From birth Mike faced many challenges, both physically and mentally. In his younger years he was quite vocal, always laughing. As he aged, and his ability to speak became compromised, he continued to persevere through every obstacle. The majority of his life was spent in silence vocally, but his expressions and actions spoke volumes to all those who knew him. The life lessons he taught all of us are immeasurable-to try everything even if you think you can't, to enjoy every day to the fullest, to beat the odds whenever you can, to smile, to dance. He truly enjoyed life and he will be deeply missed. The bond he had with his parents was unbreakable. In pre-arranging services with them, Mike picked out, in true Mike fashion, a casket lined in camouflage. To celebrate Mike, the family is encouraging anyone who may attend his calling hours, to wear something camouflage. Mike would love that. Calling hours at the Autenrith Funeral Home, 7479 Main Street, Newport are Thursday, March 6 from 3:00 to 6:00 pm. A funeral service will follow at 6:00 pm with Mr. Richard Asaro officiating. Spring interment will take place in Fairfield Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Herkimer County Humane Society where Mike volunteered over the years at P.O. Box 73 Mohawk, NY 13407. Envelopes are available at the funeral home. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Michael, please visit our floral store.