Craig LaPoint

Craig D. LaPoint, 64, of Russell, passed away at home on August 16, 2026, with the support and love of his family following a courageous battle with cancer.

Craig was born September 8, 1961, in Canton, NY, to the late Lawrence E. and Betty (Powers) LaPoint. In 1980, he graduated from Knox Memorial High School and enlisted in the U.S. Army. Craig proudly served his country until his discharge in 1984. Craig grew up on the family farm and managed his own dairy cows on and off throughout his life, later switching to Red Angus. In the 1980s, Craig entered the construction industry with Barry, Bette and Led Duke, and followed with Bette and Cring. Craig began as a laborer and was a project superintendent at the time of his retirement in the fall of 2023 following his diagnosis.

Craig is survived by his wife of 31 years, Toni of Russell, NY; son Nicholas of Edwards, NY; daughter Meaghan of Nashville, TN; daughter Renae of Massena, NY. His stepchildren also survive him, Shelley (Jake) Peterson of Beulah, CO, and Matthew (Danielle) Fox of Boston, MA. Craig enjoyed spending time with his 4 grandchildren who affectionately called him ‘Papa’.

Craig is also survived by 6 siblings, Kaye Facey of Ogdensburg, NY; Rogene (Jerry) LaRock of Russell, NY; Margaret “Peggy” (Jeff) Mousaw of Russell, NY; Dennis (Jeanne) LaPoint of Hermon, NY; Rose (Dale) Matthews of DeKalb Junction, NY and Darr LaPoint of Russell, NY. Many nieces and nephews also survive him.

In addition to his parents, Craig was predeceased by his brother, Lawrence “Larry” LaPoint Jr.

Craig’s great love was hunting, especially with his family at camp. He was a member of the Gulf Brook Hunting Club from the age of 16. He enjoyed spending time outdoors and was never one to sit still, always having a project to work on. Craig was always willing to lend a hand to family and friends, often helping to complete their projects before his own. He will be remembered by all who knew him for his love of family, unflappableness, generosity, and work ethic.

Calling hours for Craig will be held on Friday, August 21, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the O’Leary Funeral Home, Canton. Per Craig’s wishes, he will be interred privately.

While undergoing treatments, Craig was inspired and moved by the pediatric brain cancer patients he saw. In this spirit, please make any memorial contributions in his name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Memories and condolences may be shared online by visiting Craig’s memorial page at

www.olearyfuneralservice.com.