Obituary of John Nyles Lamica

John Nyles Lamica, 84, affectionately called Jack by many, John passed away on the morning of September 9​th​, 2020 surrounded by his family, following complications from lung cancer. John loved his wife Adelle, his kids and his country. John was born to Eileen G. Gravelle on July 25, 1936. He was raised by Elieen and William A. Lamica in North Bangor on the family farm. He spoke with fondness of his childhood, farming with the horses while surrounded by his family. John was one of six children – Steve Lamica (married to Bonnie Lamica and living in Bangor), Gary Lamica (married to the late Carolyn Degon and living in North Bangor),Patricia Horner (married to John Horner and living in Trout River), Brian Lamica (married to Carol and living in Westville) and Sally Lamica (living in Morrisonville). Early in his career, John worked at the St. Lawrence Seaway and Power Project as Concrete Foreman and at the Robert Moses Niagara Power Plant in Lewiston, NY.He joined the army at the age of 18 and retired with over 20 years of service with the rank of first sergeant. John served three tours in Vietnam with the 25th Infantry Division and 9​th​ Infantry Division. During this time, he was awarded two Bronze Stars with valor, two Purple Hearts, and the Combat Infantry Badge, among many other awards. Following his tours in Vietnam, John continued to serve his country and to be recognized for his service. During his time at Fort Campbell in Kentucky, John was recognized as the 1973 Brigade Soldier of the Year and was featured in the Army Times Magazine in an article highlighting his leadership skills as an Advanced Individual Training (AIT) Instructor. John’s assignments as an infantry company first sergeant brought him all over the world - from Texas to Korea to Germany and back again. In his final assignment, John served as the lead instructor at the Non Commissioned Officer (NCO) Advanced Leadership and Development Course in Fort Hood, Texas. Upon his retirement from the Army, John was eager to return to the community and land that raised him. In 1978, he bought the family farm at Coal Hill Road in Westville. He returned to farming, raising first replacement dairy heifers and then beef cattle. He also sustained an extended family, supporting his sister-in-law Connie Perez and nephew Larry Hiraga in numerous ways and always gathering together siblings and cousins. In the Army and in his family, he was a leader who supported and inspired everyone around him. In addition to farming and supporting his family, John enjoyed working in the woods, tinkering with machinery, restoring old cars, and watching Nascar, football, and classic Westerns. John is survived by his loving wife of over 54 years, Adelle Faye (Little) Lamica, and his children, John Nyles Lamica II(married to Patricia), Marilee Ann Laramee (married to Matthew), and Linda Degon (born to Beatrice Fleury and married to Allen). He also leaves behind many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His strong presence, unwavering support, and wise guidance will be forever missed. The graveside services will be held at the Coal Hill Cemetery (Westville) on September 25th at 1 p.m. Arrangements are by the Frary- Spaulding Funeral Home of Malone.