Lance Garfield Bosell

Mr. Lance Garfield Bosell, age 68, of Utica, passed away on Tuesday, May 8, 2012 at the Masonic Care Community of NY after a courageous battle with cancer, with his loving family by his side. Born in Washington, DC on October 13, 1943, Lance was the son of Eleanor “Ellie” (Erickson) Guillaume and the late Garfield Bosell. He also knew the love of his step-father, the late Allan Guillaume. He was raised and educated in Syracuse and after high school he joined the military where he honorably served his country as a United States Army Paratrooper. At one time, he was married to May (Dorsey) Bosell with whom he shared a family. On September 4, 2005 he wed the former Naomi E. Bailey; they had an instant attraction to each other which blossomed into a union filled with laughter and fun. They were each other’s best decision in life, and they shared a passion for raising their children. Lance began his working career as a professional firefighter in Daytona Beach, Florida, a position of which he was very proud. Upon relocation to Utica he began working at Al’s Auto Body. He was a hardworking and dedicated employee, very well-respected in his field. His clients would come from near and far out of appreciation for his expertise. In time, he assumed ownership of the business and was proud of this achievement of becoming self employed. His success came on the heels of his terrific sense of humor, quick wit, amazing rapport with people, many friends, and his honest heart. He had the flair to fill a room with laughter in a moment, and if he became your friend, he was your friend for life. Lance spoke his mind to let you know how he felt, and he never held anything back. He had a special and close bond with his mother and always checked in on her and was vigilant of her needs. In his heart of hearts, he was his “mama’s boy”. He was self-sacrificing to help those he loved, and put his all into everything and everyone in his life. Beneath his tough exterior he was a true softie, dedicated to being a good son, husband, father, grandfather, and friend. The two greatest loves of his life were his work and his grandkids. During his spare time, he enjoyed snowmobiling, playing with his ‘big boy toys’, boating, fishing, bowling, and watching NASCAR. What little downtime he had, he enjoyed at his camp in Cape Vincent. Overall, Lance was a true man’s man. Lance is survived by his wife, Naomi; his mother, Ellie; his daughters and sons-in-law, Michelle and Bud Drake of Waterville, and Dawn and Robert Wasyleski of Schuyler; his sons and daughters-in-law, Larry and Michelle Dorsey of Tennessee, and Tommy and Gretchen Dorsey of Indiana; his step-children, Heather and Chris Wood of Baldwinsville, Anya and Tyler Beauchat of Idaho, Nicholas and Amy Jones of Sherburne, and Laura Jones of Utica; and his grandchildren, Jordan Russell, Cheyanne, Tabitha, Robert Allan, Christopher Robin, Kayla Lynn, Emily Rose, Larry Lance, Ava Jordan, Bryleigh Ann, Grace Naomi, McKennah Belle, and Desmond Jason. He also leaves his sister, Junie Bosell of Marcy; brother, John Garfield of Utica; step-sister, Jaye Terpstra of Forestport; many nieces, nephews, with special mention of Billy and Serena Harrison, and their children, Stephen, Adam, and Ryan; great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, especially acknowledging Claude, Victor, Linda, Patricia, Art, Elwood, Bev and Randy, and other extended family. Lance was also blessed with many friends that he made throughout his life including John Vella, Footsie Fraizer, and Terry H. He was predeceased by his brother, David R. Bosell; and his sister, Gayle Schilingo. The family sends sincere thanks to the staff of the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center, and the personnel of the Masonic Care Community of NY, Buffalo Household, especially Andrea, Amanda, and Kia who were Lance’s favorites. Visitation will be held Monday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Expressions of Sympathy in the form of donations may be made to the American Cancer Society; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Lance’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Tuesday morning at 9:30 at Historic Old St. John’s Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered. Interment with military honors will take place graveside in Oriskany Cemetery.

Lance Garfield Bosell

October 13, 1943 - May 8, 2012