Mr. Maynard R. "Rick" LaClair, Sr.

UTICA – Mr. Maynard R. “Rick” LaClair, Sr., age 73, passed away on Wednesday, July 27, 2022, in the comfort and dignity of his own home—indeed, in a room in the very addition he had built—with his loving family by his side. Rick was born in Ellenburg, NY, on February 25, 1949, to the late Maynard W. and Eva M. (Harris) LaClair. At the age of nine, Maynard and his family relocated to the Utica area, where he was raised and educated. He graduated from T.R. Proctor High School/Class of 1967. From there, Rick took on an apprenticeship and then went on to begin work as a journeyman carpenter – a type of work to which he had long aspired. On July 6, 1979, Rick married the former Linda Sue Malek. The two shared a loving and devoted union of 43 years, all of which were filled with wonderful memories. A dedicated and skilled professional, Rick was a member of the Carpenter’s Union, working as a Carpenter for Five in One Construction and for the Utica City School District. Additionally, he self-contracted throughout his life under his own business, LaClair Construction. A man with a large heart and zest for life, Rick was well-loved by family—especially by his kids, who always looked up to him. They often referred to him as “the Mayor of Utica,” both laughing over and impressed by the number of people Rick knew. He was one to always touch others with his presence. He also loved to spend time with the crew over breakfast at Whitey’s as well as with his pals at Dave’s Diner and Sheri’s Diner. Rick would even frequent the Modernistic and Belview for a good meal and spirits. There are several wonderful memories of dancing there. A self-taught, gifted musician, Rick could sing and play guitar, violin, and piano. He enjoyed karaoke and is fondly remembered for his signature songs: Neon Moon and My Way. Other favorite pastimes included woodworking on the side, hosting annual family “pig roasts,” spending time with his grandchildren, and adding continuous love/work to the family home. Moreover, Rick treasured the opportunities the family had to travel up north, where he grew up. He loved to spend time there, rekindling old friendships and reminiscing about the memories of yonder year and his loved ones. Rick believed the Catholic Creed and was a parishioner at St. Anthony and St. Agnes Church. Rick is survived by his beloved wife, Linda; his daughters and sons-in-law, Deanna and Jack Kennedy, Jessica LaClair, and Janae and Aaron Velardi; as well as by his son and his love, Maynard R. “RJ” LaClair, Jr. and Danielle Williams. He will live on in the hearts of his grandchildren, Gavin LaPaglia, Sienna Kennedy, Jamison Evans; Eva VanDoren; Everton Velardi; and Brady Chirico. Maynard will be fondly remembered by his sisters and brothers-in-law, Andrea Aurigema and her late husband Frank “Sham” Aurigema, Jacklyn and Patrick “Pat” Gurdo, Karen Arrigo and her late husband Frank Arrigo Sr., and Christine and Gary Artessa. Maynard was predeceased by his sister, Bolita Schorer; and his brother-in-law, Frank Gaeta. He leaves behind his brother-in-law, Gary K. Schorer; and his mother-in-law, Joyce Varano. Rick was blessed with many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins, especially acknowledging Stephen LaClair, who was like a brother to Maynard. He will be carried in the hearts of his in-laws, Karen and Ron Reina, Rick (who he also loved as a brother) and Sue Malek, and Mike and Laurie Malek. Rick leaves behind many wonderful friends, including but not limited to Marty, Mickey, Mike D., and Ernie. He was predeceased by his dear friends, Tony Monescalchi and Dougie Burr. The family would like to extend their gratitude to Dr. Winn and the nurses at St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center for their loving and compassionate concern for Rick. The family will honor his life privately. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Rick’s Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life which will commence on Monday, August 1, 2022, at 1:00 p.m. at St. Anthony and St. Agnes Church, 422 Tilden Ave. There will be an opportunity to greet the family at the conclusion of the service.

Mr. Maynard R. "Rick" LaClair, Sr.

February 25, 1949 - July 27, 2022