He was born on October 9, 1926 in Parshall Hospital, Oneonta, the son of Harry and Mary (Forte) Lance. He graduated from St. Mary’s School.
John joined the Navy when he was 18 years old and served in the South Pacific during WWII.
He was a member of the Oneonta Fire Department for 15 years, and later went into the electrical business.
In 2001, he married Darlene Pidgeon. They spent many years in Florida during the winter months.
John loved hunting, fishing, and playing golf. He was a life member of the VFW and a member of the Oneonta Elks Club. He attended St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Oneonta.
He is survived by his wife Darlene; his sons, Anthony and Todd (Peggy) Lance; his daughter Cheryl (Mike) Sovan; and a stepson, Brett Pidgeon; 11 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren; and 5 nephews.
Besides his parents, he was also predeceased by his son, John Jr.; a daughter, Rhonda Peebles; and sisters, Bette Kennedy and Mary Nolan.
Friends are invited to greet the family on Monday, June 10, 2019 from 5 to 7 pm at the Bookhout Funeral Home, 357 Main Street, Oneonta.
A Mass will take place on Tuesday, June 11, 2019 at 10:30 am at St. Mary’s Church, 39 Walnut Street, Oneonta.
Burial will take place in Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Emmons.
The family would like to thank Catskill Area Hospice for their excellent care during John’s illness.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Catskill Area Hospice and St. Mary’s Food Bank.
Online condolences may be made by visiting www.bookhoutfuneralhome.com
Arrangements are by the Bookhout Funeral Home, Oneonta.
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