Daniel J. Labarge

Daniel Joseph LaBarge

January 18, 1945 – February 19, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Daniel Joseph LaBarge, who succumbed to his illness on February 19, 2025. Born on January 18, 1945, in Herkimer, NY, Dan was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend.

A Life of Passion and Dedication

Dan grew up in the Mohawk Valley and attended West Canada High School, where he discovered his passion for music. A talented baritone player and accomplished tenor, he shined in school musicals and carried his love for music throughout his life.

After high school, Dan attended Utica College and soon embarked on a lifelong career in the automotive industry. He started at Holt Brothers in Mohawk, NY, working his way up from the parts department to service manager, then to sales, and finally sales manager.

In the 1970s, Dan partnered with Hiram Skinner at a small dealership in Richfield Springs, selling International Harvester and American Motors. Through his vision and hard work, Skinner & Damulis grew from a modest lot with a dozen cars into a thriving business with four major automotive franchises, becoming one of the highest-volume dealerships in the Mohawk Valley. Dan built lasting relationships with his customers, many of whom remained loyal for more than 40 years.

Retirement and Community Involvement

Dan retired in 2015, but his drive and dedication didn't slow down. He found a new passion with DJ's Amish Taxi, providing transportation and hauling services to the growing Amish community in and around Richfield Springs. He became a trusted friend to local farmers, carpenters, and cabinet makers, always ready to lend a helping hand.

Dan was deeply dedicated to Richfield Springs and believed in giving back to his community. A long-standing member of the Lions Club, he was often seen filling in as Santa Claus at various Christmas events, volunteering for vintage automobile shows, and stepping in wherever help was needed. His generosity and community spirit left an indelible mark on those around him.

A Lifelong Love for Music

Dan's love for music continued throughout his life. He sang in the Sunday service choir at North Columbia Methodist Church and was an active member of the North Columbia Gospel Quartet, Valley Voices for Christ, and the Ilion Community Marching Band. Whether through song, service, or a simple act of kindness, Dan brought joy to those who knew him.

Family and Legacy
Dan was predeceased by his father, Harry LaBarge; mother, Mildred Cotton LaBarge; son Kevin LaBarge, brother, Frank LaBarge; sister, Patricia LaBarge Haas; brother-in-law, Herman Haas; and his wife of 40 years, Elaine Werthman LaBarge.

He is survived by his loving wife, Cathy LaBarge, his son, Robert LaBarge, and his wife, Robyn Diamond, of Atlanta, GA, his grandson, Hudson LaBarge, of Denver, CO, and his granddaughter, Baylee LaBarge, of Atlanta, GA. He is also survived by his daughter, Tricia LaBarge Diedrich, and her husband, Clyde Diedrich, of Mohawk, NY, and grandsons, Kevin Diedrich, 1st Lieutenant USAF, stationed in San Antonio, TX, and Jason Diedrich of Mohawk, NY.

Additionally, Dan is survived by his stepdaughter, Michelle McCumber McKnight, and her husband, William McKnight of Richfield Springs, NY, along with their son, Brandon McKnight, and his wife, Sarah, and their daughter, Grace McKnight, all of Henrietta, NY, and their son, Jordan McKnight of Denver, CO. His stepdaughter, Melissa McCumber Florian, husband Russell, and daughter Natalia, all of Clay, NY, their son, Colin Dawley of Ilion, NY, and their daughter, Alexis Dawley Lamphere, and her husband, Tyler Lamphere, of Pennellville, NY, also carry forward his memory. His stepson, Michael McCumber, and his wife, Rachel Coats, of Denver, CO.

In addition, Dan is survived by his stepson, Paul L'Hommedieu, Jr. of Richfield Springs, NY; stepson, David L'Hommedieu of Ballston Spa, NY; stepson, Tim L'Hommedieu and his family of Cape Coral, FL; stepdaughter, Ann Marie L'Hommedieu of Albany, NY; step-grandson, Bryce L'Hommedieu of Richfield Springs, NY; step-grandson, Michael L'Hommedieu of Clifton Park, NY; and step-grandson, Vincent L'Hommedieu of Jacksonville, NC, complete his loving and extended family.

Dan's legacy is one of kindness, hard work, and unwavering dedication to his family, friends, and community. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

At the family's request please consider a donation to the American Heart Association than the gift of flowers.