Troy - John C. “Jack” LaReau, 77, died January 2, 2023, at his home surrounded by his loving family after a months-long illness. The LaReau family has lost their rock and the world has lost a living embodiment of love, graciousness, generosity, selflessness, acceptance, and unmatched humor and spirit. Jack has now taken his rightful place in Heaven, protecting us from above, joining his parents, brothers and other loved ones who have gone before him.
Jack was born in Shreveport, LA, the first of five children of the late John C. “Bud” LaReau and Mary E. (Meehan) LaReau. He spent most of his childhood growing up in Albany, NY but moved to California for a short time. At age 9, he lost his father in a tragic car accident, becoming a father figure to his four younger siblings: the late Joe LaReau (late Sue) of Nutley, NJ, Terri Pennisi (Vince) of Troy, the late Chuck LaReau (Troy), and Jim LaReau (Felicia) of Albany. After returning to Albany following the loss of his father, he spent the next several years growing up in the New Scotland Ave area with his siblings and tight knit group of friends.
After graduating from Vincentian Institute in Albany, he served overseas in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. Upon discharge in 1969, Jack graduated from the State University of New York at Albany, earning his Bachelor of Arts degree in English. After a short stretch teaching in the Albany School District, he began a 30+ year career with the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, retiring as the Help Desk Manager in 2007.
Jack is survived by his adoring wife of 49 years, Charlene (Rogers) LaReau. He also leaves behind his devoted children: Nicole Giuliano (Derek) of Niskayuna, and son John LaReau (Jazmin Powell) of Troy. He will also be immensely missed by his grandchildren, Tyson and Gemma Giuliano and Micaiden LaReau, several nieces and nephews, countless dear friends, and his best four-legged friend Sadie.
Jack was the owner of the Raven Pub in Troy for several years in the 80’s where he made many lifelong friends. He loved to travel with his wife, taking many trips across the country and abroad with his siblings and dear friends Wayne and Kate (“Weasel and Smitty”) D’Arcy. An avid guitar player, he had a deep appreciation of music. Jack loved to ride his motorcycle, and looked forward to his annual trip to Laconia, NH for Motorcycle Week with his “Werewolves of Loudon” crew. He was also a decades-long member of the Albany Curling Club.
The LaReau family would like to extend their sincerest appreciation to The Community Hospice who helped them keep Jack comfortable, at peace and at home for his final days according to his wishes; particularly case managers Beth and Frank, LPN Joe, and social worker Nick. They would also like to recognize the medical staff at St. Peter’s Hospital, Sunnyview Rehabilitation Hospital, Eddy VNA and his longtime physician Dr. Keith Rebehn of Family Medical Group for their dedicated care over the past few months (and years).
Relatives and friends may call at the Bryce Funeral Home, Inc. (276 Pawling Avenue, Troy, NY 12180) on Thursday January 5, 2023 from 4-7PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday at 10AM at Our Lady of Victory Church (55 N Lake Ave, Troy, NY 12180). Interment will be in St. Agnes Cemetery (Menands, NY).
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of John C. LaReau to the Peppertree Rescue (PO Box 2396, Albany, NY 12220).
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