John E. Lerch

Oneida-John E. “Johnny” Lerch, 57, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 13, 2022, with the love and support of his family by his side, at his home, following a courageous battle against cancer.

He was born on June 7, 1965, in Oneida, the son of the Jack and Patricia Rowe Lerch.  Johnny grew up in Oneida and was a graduate of Oneida High School.  Throughout his high school years, Johnny excelled on the football field.  Following high school, he proudly served in the United States Army. On November 1, 1985 in Wampsville, he was united in marriage to Mari Buell.  Johnny had worked numerous years at Owl Wire of Canastota.  He later went on to work as a team member for the Oneida Walmart in the Deli Department.  He was always there with a smile and ready to help the customer with professional service.  Johnny enjoyed his customers and co-workers.  Unfortunately, he was faced with retirement so he could stay at home and provide care for Mari, as she had developed Huntington’s Disease, and had become disabled.  Johnny showed great compassion and love towards Mari as her caregiver, while fighting his own battle against cancer.  Johnny had learned his culinary skills while serving in the Army.  He brought these same skills to his home kitchen. He was always preparing, “World Class” meals for his family.  Johnny had a fondness for scratch off lottery tickets, computer games, and the Miami Dolphins.  Johnny leaves a legacy of devotion and love to Mari and his children, Steffon and Paige.

He is survived by his soul mate and wife of 37 years, Mari; his children Steffon Lerch, and his fiancée, Ashely Morey, and his daughter Paige Lerch; his step-father Hank Bolton; his sister and brother in law Lori and Milt Holt; his sisters-in-law and their spouses: Loni and Richard Petrie, Cyndi and Andy Linton, and Vicki and Floyd Philo; his brothers-in-law: Richard (Kim) Buell, Ray (Wanda O’Herien) Buell, Randy (Sherry Thompson)Buell , and Deane Palmer; a step brother Shawn (Carly) Bolton.  Johnny also is survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and close friends

Johnny was predeceased by his mother Patricia; his in laws: Richard and Patricia Buell, his brother-in-law Robert “Buford” Buell, and his sister-in-law Gerri Palmer.

There are no public services planned.  Johnny’s family will gather privately to honor his life.  Johnny and his family are in the care of Jeffrey T. Paul, Director, of the Coolican-McSweeney & Paul Funeral Home.  To offer a condolence or share a memory, please visit: coolican-mcsweeney. com

Please consider a donation in Johnny’s name to either  Hospice and Palliative Care of New Hartford 4277 Middle Settlement Road, New Hartford, New York  13413, or Huntington Disease Society of America,505 Eighth Avenue, Suite 902, New York, New York 10018.

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