Gene LaBare

With heavy hearts and deep love, we announce the passing of Eugene “Gene” Edward LaBare, who left this world unexpectedly on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at St. Anthony’s Hospital in St. Petersburg, FL. Born on February 25, 1947, in Johnson City, NY, Gene spent most of his life in Endicott, NY, before moving to St. Petersburg with his beloved wife in 2016.

Gene shared 54 wonderful years with his loving wife, Nancy (Kostun), building a life rooted in devotion, resilience, and joy. Together, they raised their son, Byron, who was Gene’s pride and joy, while carrying the memory of their cherished daughter, Kelly, close to his heart every day. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Helen Kostun; sister-in-law, Diane

LaBare; brother-in-law, Daniel Matthews; along with beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Cyril and Elizabeth LaBare; in laws Helen and William Kostun; daughter Kelly M. LaBare; sister-in-law Madeline Matthews; brother-in-law William J. Kostun Sr.; and brothers Cyril and Jaun LaBare.

A graduate of Canton College, Gene built a remarkable career that reflected both ambition and dedication. He spent 34 years with IBM, retiring as a Product Manager, and later worked 15 years as a Finance/Labor Union Liaison for William H. Lane, Inc. Yet his true calling was service—to his family, his community, and the people around him.

Gene gave generously of his time and talents, coaching Tulane Pee Wee football and youth basketball at St. Joseph’s Church and the IBM Country Club. He helped start the Endicott Girls’ Teener Softball League and served his community in leadership roles with the Union- Endicott School District Board, including a term as president. From 2007 to 2010, he was elected to the Broome County Legislature, where he served as Majority Leader and chaired several committees. His impact extended further through his work with Action for Older Persons, Southern Tier Economic Development, the Boys and Girls Club of Western Broome, the Chamber of Commerce, and the Spiedie Fest and Balloon Rally, where he served as both board member and president. After moving to Florida, Gene continued his civic service as President of CASA Del MAR IV Condo Association and as a Principal on the Alliance for Bayway Communities.

Above all, Gene will be remembered for his warmth, humor, and generosity. He had a gift for making people feel seen, valued, and cared for—always ready to share a story, offer advice, or lend a helping hand. He cherished his family, his friendships, and his community, and he found joy in life’s simple pleasures: cheering for the Yankees, the NY Giants, and Notre Dame football, and sharing laughter and love with that dearest to him.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, September 12, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Church of the Holy Family, 3600 Phyllis St, Endwell, NY 13760. The family will receive friends from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at the church, followed by burial at Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that those wishing to express their sympathy consider donating to help establish the LaBare Foundation – created from both love and loss to honor Gene and his daughter, Kelly. Their lives, though cut short by heart conditions, continue to inspire advocacy, education, collaboration, and support around cardiovascular health. Through this foundation, Gene and Kelly’s legacy of kindness, resilience, and compassion will live on—transforming grief into purpose and offering hope to others.

Foundation information contact: Byron LaBare at ByronLaBare@gmail.com

Rest peacefully, Gene. Your love, devotion, and legacy will forever remain in our hearts