WINTER HAVEN, FLA. – Christopher Alan Lasnick, 60, formerly of Arkport, passed away surrounded by his family on Tuesday (October 11, 2022) at Lakeland Regional Health Medical Center in Lakeland, Fla. following a short illness.
Chris was born on January 21, 1962 in Wayland to Joel L. and Eva M. (Brewster) Lasnick. He was a 1980 graduate of Arkport Central School. Chris attended Alfred State College from 1980-1981. After college, he dedicated himself to serving his community in the Arkport Fire Department where he met his future wife Corinna L. Kennell. They were married on March 2, 1985 at the Arkport American Legion.
Chris was a senior engineering technician. for the New York State Department of Transportation for 30 years until his retirement in 2020. After retiring, he and his wife fulfilled one of their lifetime dreams by moving to Winter Haven, Fla.
In addition to Cori, the love of his life of 37 years, Chris is survived by his mother, Eva Lasnick of Wellsville; his sons, John Odell (Danyelle) of Bath and Edward Lasnick (Brenda) of Haines City, Fla.; three brothers, Daniel Lasnick of Rochester, Mark Lasnick (Joi) of Jupiter, Fla., and Michael Lasnick (Brandi) of Scio; his brother-in-law Ron Kennell (Barb) of Canisteo; six grandsons, Dennis Lasnick of Haines City, Fla., Karter Odell of Bath, Dylan Loper of Hornell, Anthony Loper of Dansville, Andrew Burley of Hornell and Jaxson Burley of Hornell; one great-granddaughter, Stella Rose Loper of Hornell; and several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. In addition, he is survived by his close friends Greg Creeley, Mark Evans, and Jay Strickland, along with his beloved dog Roscoe.
He was preceded in death by his father Joel Lasnick; his grandson Christopher Odell; his daughter-in-law Carrie Odell; his mother-in law and father-in-law Ronald and Bonnie Kennell and his devoted canine companion, Bruin.
Chris was a courageous and generous community member. He was an active member of the Arkport Fire Department for 26 years, serving 15 years as a charismatic and influential chief. He also was a Steuben County Fire Investigator.
Chris served with honor in the Civil Air Patrol, where he achieved the rank of major. He was a mentor and commander to the young men in the Twin Tiers Cadet Squad in Horseheads and was also assistant commander of the New York Wing in White Plains.
Chris’ patriotism and determination were evident in his relief service at Pier 93 in New York City following the 9/11 World Trade Center attacks. As a cub scout leader in Arkport, he passed on his patriotism to the young boys in his troop.
Chris loved to participate with the Bingo Gang and Wednesday Coffee Crew at the Swiss Village community. He was an avid Buffalo Bills fan and enjoyed following NASCAR.
Chris was a “one in a million” guy who had a big heart and was willing to be friends with anyone. He gave 110 percent in all his endeavors and worked hard to bring out the best in all those around him. Friends and family will always remember his contagious laugh and his inspirational, entrepreneurial spirit. He was open-minded, honest and compassionate toward those he met. He was a wonderful, caring son, dad, and “papa” who stepped up to take responsibility even when he didn’t have to and showed unconditional love to all.
Visitation will be Friday (October 21) from 3-6 p.m. at the Baker-Swan Funeral Home in Wellsville/Scio. The memorial service will be held at 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home immediately following the visitation with Pastor William Spencer of the Wallace Wesleyan Church, officiating. © 2022 Baker-Swan Funeral Home.
We are sorry for your loss, and that we won’t be able to be with you Friday. There aren’t any words to make you feel better, but remember that he is no longer in pain. We send our love to all of you.
Very sorry to hear of Chris passing. Tho we hadn’t kept in touch in recent years, he was a respected friend and I valued his opinion at County Chiefs. My Thoughts and prayers go out to his family. Rest In Peace my friend, you have touched a lot of lives!
Yourself sorry for your loss I was out of town all week .I am just seeing this sad news my deepest sympathy
to your family message