John Michael Seamon

SCHUYLER LAKE – John Michael Seamon, age 77, passed away unexpectedly on Friday evening November 21, 2025, in his home.

John was born on April 19, 1948, in Cooperstown, son of the late Harry P. and Mary E. Horan Seamon.  He was raised in Schuyler Lake and educated in Richfield Springs, graduating from Richfield Springs High School. He furthered his education at Cornell University obtaining a degree in Animal Husbandry. On November 9, 1968, he married the former Yvette Smith in the Annunciation Church, Ilion. They had a blessed marriage of fifty-seven years. John was a dairy farmer operating LevelandDairy Farm in Schuyler Lake, retiring in 2008. Farming was his passion and livelihood.

John was an outdoorsman and an avid hunter. He could tell you what the best tree was to cut for firewood and did a great deal of woodworking himself. John was known as the king of useless information, a master of trivia, and his wide wealth of knowledge. He enjoyed writing and was very proud of his penmanship. John had a love of sports and played several in high school. He was on many local, slow pitch softball teams and picked up bowling as well. He always had a sports event on TV, usually a Yankees game, and was a huge Barry Bonds fan. John had a love of Ford trucks but nothing made him happier than time spent with his grandchildren. He loved teaching them his trades, how to play cards, his unusual sayings and nursery rhymes and giving them advice that only he could give, like having a strong work ethic.

John was a friend to many and will never be forgotten. He took an interest in getting to know people and was genuine with his conversation. You always knew where you stood with John buthe gave everyone a chance. Affectionately known as Dembo, an NBA player he admired, John challenged dozens of local ballers to friendly competition in the Cowmooseum. He would lend a hand to anyone as he was handy in various areas including construction and masonry. He built many pieces of furniture and enjoyed his time in his wood shop.

John was nostalgic and remembered memories from his childhood, with clear and vivid details. He never threw out a card or a picture, appreciating the story behind them. He valued friendships and was highly respected by all. His smile was infectious, his hands big and his heart warm. Everyone was welcome in John's home.

He is survived by his wife of fifty-seven years Yvette, a son Jason Seamon (Samantha) of Schuyler Lake, two daughters; Rebecca McCord of Schuyler Lake and Shannon Merwin (Gary) of Richfield Springs, a brother Daniel Seamon (Susan) of Schuyler Lake, brother in-laws Skip Smith (Cheryl) of North Carolina, LaMott K. Smith (Robin) of Virginia, Lorne Smith (Jennifer) of New York, sister in-laws Robin Seamon (Bill) of Richfield Springs and Juanita Rose (Ray) West Winfield, nine grandchildren; Logan, Brooke, Delaney, Carson, Jensen, Cami, Latham, Payton, Hayden, three great grandchildren; Paisley, Maelynn, Laramie, several nieces, nephews and cousins and lastly his favorite canine companion Shadow.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his son John "Mikey" Seamon, his brother Harry P. Seamon, II, and in-laws LaMott and Yvonne Smith.

Calling hours for Mr. Seamon will be held on Sunday,November 30th from 2-4 pm at the J. Seaton McGrath Funeral Home Inc., 40 West James Street, Richfield Springs, followed by a funeral service at 4 pm with the Reverend Ronald Fralickofficiating. A celebration of John's life will take place immediately following the funeral at the Vet's Club, 13 Lake St Richfield Springs from 5-7pm. If interested in making a food donation, please text (315) 868-4983 by Friday and donations can be dropped off at the Vets Club at 4pm Sunday. Burial will take place on Monday, December 1st at 11am at the Schuyler Lake Cemetery.

Expression of sympathy can be made in John's memory to the Richfield Springs Chapter of FFA (Future Farmers of America). Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.