Mr. John F. Dousharm

CLAYVILLE – Mr. John F. Dousharm, age 83, went home to the Lord when he passed away on Monday, January 1, 2024, while in the company of his family who offered prayers and were of much comfort. John was born in Potsdam, NY on August 4, 1940 to the late Mary Dousharm. During his life, he also knew the love and guidance of his step-father. He attended Utica Free Academy before joining the U.S. Army 19th Battalion, stationed in Fort Carson, CO. Afterward, John found employment as a machinist with the Divine Brothers Company, where he was a dedicated worker for over 40 years. He was even elected as a group leader, which was well suited to his personality. He was also a proud member of the Textile Union of America. On October 19, 1963, he wed the former Carolyn L. DeCicco, with whom he shared a long and loving marriage. There was an unspoken bond and connection between the two of them. They shared common goals and accomplished much over their 60 years together. Though John and Carolyn did not have any children of their own, they vowed to care for their nieces, nephews, neighbors, and anyone else in their lives who may have needed them. He assisted three generations of kids, never missed a party, attended sporting banquets, and graduations. He was a second dad to so many special loved ones, who will forever remember him. John was a caring and loving man with a heart of gold. Always on the move, he did not like to remain idle. He was a perpetual worker. He had great vision which often proved to be accurated. He also was a great driver and could get through any storm. John was an avid outdoorsman, he loved hunting and fishing on the St. Lawrence. Anyone who fished with him, he taught them the correct way to fish. When the opportunity presented itself to build a well-appointed camp with a matching shed, he stepped right up. It was a family affair, and the door was always open once it was finished. There he enjoyed many relaxing nights by the campfire with his Molson Golden and unique conversations. Anytime his large family had a gathering, he would attend with love and never missed. He also had a wonderful appetite, with pasta, most importantly ravioli being his favorite. He was even known to eat as many as 30 ravioli in one sitting. John had a personal relationship with the Lord, and his mother always encouraged him to attend Mass. He and Carolyn were members of St. Anthony and St. Agnes Church. John is survived by his loving wife, Carol; and his half-brothers, Wallace Keesler, and Robert Keesler. He was preceded by his half-sister. Mary Ellen Bowee. His loss is also felt by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great-nieces, great-great-nephews, an army of cousins; and his in-laws, Johann DeCicco, Jeanette DeCicco, and Denise DeCicco. He was predeceased by his father-in-law and mother-in-law Carmen D. and Angeline (Guerriero) DeCicco; and his in-laws, Joseph A. DeCicco, Anthony DeCicco, Carmen DeCicco, and Phyllis K. (DeCicco) Palama-Smith. The family extends their gratitude to the ICU nurses at Wynn Hospital for their outstanding care. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend John’s Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life with Military Honors conferred which will commence on Monday, January 8, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Anthony and St. Agnes Church, 422 Tilden Ave. There will be an opportunity to greet the family at the conclusion of Mass. In lieu of floral offerings, memorial contributions in John’s honor may be made to Feed Our Vets online at www.feedourvets.org/donate; envelopes will also be available at the service. Committal Prayers will be offered at Church Our Savior Mausoleum with interment to follow in Calvary Cemetery.

Mr. John F. Dousharm

August 4, 1940 - January 1, 2024