Obituary of Paul M. Laskey

Dateline: Ballston Spa, NY Paul Michael Laskey Sr. Paul M. Laskey, Sr. 68, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on Monday November 14, 2022. Paul Sr. defied the odds and thrived during a 23-year battle with an aggressive brain tumor. He is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years Mary, his children Paul and Theresa (Teri), and six beautiful grandchildren (Brian, Garrett, Ania, Maya, Mila, and Ella), his brothers Timothy and Edward Laskey and their families. Paul is also predeceased by his brother Tom, who passed away from the same brain cancer 15 years prior. Tom's widow Pam and her children remained close to Paul throughout his life. He was 68 years old. He was born on November 27, 1953 in Ballston Spa, New York. The son of Edward F. and Anne Laskey, he loved his hometown and spent his entire life here. He graduated from Ballston Spa High School and was a dedicated lifelong member of St. Mary's Church. Paul and his wife Mary operated E.P. Steel that fabricated, erected, and transported steel products. Paul's love of the outdoors was in every fiber of his being. He enjoyed his time cross country ski racing, ice climbing, hiking, canoeing, camping, and gardening. The wilderness was his happy place. He shared this passion with his wife, children, and brother throughout his life. After his brain surgery in 1999, his rehabilitation took him to Hadley Mountain Fire Tower with his son where they became Summit Stewards. This opportunity ignited his passion for the history of fire observation towers which led to his self-published book, Fire Observation Towers of New York "Survivors That Stand Guard". He brought his family and friends on every adventure to climb each of the 58 Fire Towers in New York. As a man who loved his community, Paul was engaged early on in serving Ballston Spa. He served his time as a Republican Committeeman, a member of local planning boards, and a dedicated man to volunteer opportunities. His hobbies included metal sculptures, where his most notable piece is the SPAC Sundial at the main entrance. Paul was a dedicated husband, father, brother, son, grandfather and friend and will be greatly missed. A service will be held at Mevec Funeral Home, 224 Milton Avenue, Ballston Spa, NY on Thursday November 17, 2022 from 4:30-7pm. A celebration of Paul's life will be held at the family's home in Ballston Spa immediately after where friends and family are welcome to honor Paul's legacy. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Hadley Mountain Fire Tower Committee. Donations can be sent to: Hadley Fire Tower, c/o Steve Mackey, 21 MacArthur Drive, Glens Falls, NY 12801 For directions or to light a candle visit us at www.mevecfuneralhome.com.