Melvin Lafferty, 84, of Homosassa, passed away Nov. 13, 2012 under the loving care of his family and HPH Hospice. Mel was born in Troy, N.Y., to Clifford and Emma Lafferty. He graduated from Siena College and the American College with a degree in CLU. He worked for Metropolitan Life Ins. Co. for 30 years, retiring as a regional manager in Syracuse, N.Y. Upon graduating from high school, he joined the U.S. Navy and played in Washington, DC in the Fleet Band on the West coast and throughout the Far East. He continued as an active musician when obtaining his college degree, playing with the big bands throughout New York State and New England. He was recalled to active duty during the Korean War and served in the Army Third Division in Korea as a forward observer, being discharged as a First Lieutenant. Upon moving to Homosassa in 1989, he kept active in many organizations such as Kiwanis, the CVPOA, American Legion and West Citrus Elks, while golfing at Sugarmill Woods and Southern Woods.
Remebering him with love are is wife of 60 years, Dorothy; son, Lee Lafferty; daughter, Lynn Gallagher; grandchildren, Christy, Tameko, Paula, Zabrina and Zachary and great grandchildren, Brittany, Victoria and Sara, along with his many friends. A memorial service and West Citrus Elks Lodge #2683 ceremony will be 11 a.m., Friday, Nov. 16, 2012 at Wilder Funeral Home, Homosassa, with Chaplain Carl Hemphill officiating. Mel’s family will receive friends at 10:30 AM until time of service. A celebration of Mel’s life will be with his family and friends at the Elks Lodge following the memorial service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in his memory be made to Hospice of Citrus County, P.O. Box 641270, Beverly Hills, FL 34465 or HPH Hospice, 3545 N. Lecanto Highway, Beverly Hills, FL 34465. www.wilderfuneralhome.com.
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