Lonnie I. Weaver, Sr.

Lonnie I. Weaver, Sr., 70, passed from this life on August 1, 2021,  while under the care of Niagara Hospice House. Lonnie was born on November 7, 1950 in Lewiston, NY. He was the son of the late John Weaver and Alverta (Bretell) Weaver-Dixon. On August 12, 1971, Lonnie married the love of his life, Elizabeth ‘Liz’ R. Auricchio. She predeceased him on April 19, 2001.

Lonnie was a lifelong resident of Niagara Falls, attending local schools. Though he attended Lasalle Senior High School, he proudly received his diploma 42 years later from Niagara Wheatfield High School as part of a program named Operation Recognition through the NYS Division of Veterans Affairs. Being a Vietnam combat veteran he wasn’t given the privilege to do so before.

Lonnie served in the United States Army, 299th Engineer Battalion, from February 18, 1968 until his honorable discharge on Sept 10, 1972. Within this time he served 3 tours in the Vietnam Conflict, and also was a POW. Lonnie was employed as a truck driver for Lakes Pipe Supply and Plumbing, and also was a heavy equipment operator. Though these were his professions, his true passion was running his pizza shops throughout Niagara Falls.

Lonnie was a life member of the Lewiston #2 Vol Fire Co, as well as a member of the Lewiston #2 Benevolent Exempts Organization. In his time with Lewiston #2, he served as President, Vice President, Treasurer, and trustee, and along side of the Niagara County Sheriff’s Work Program. He was also an honorary member of the Lewiston #2 Ladies Auxiliary where he worked side by side with his wife Liz on many functions. He was also a member of the American Legion Post 381, in Niagara Falls, as well as a member of the VFW Post 54, holding the position of 2nd Vice Commander.

Lonnie is survived by his children Lonnie (Jennifer) Weaver, Jr., Rochele (Terrence) Broeker, Kristy (Frank) Bongiovanni and Tina (Dan) Riley. His loving grandchildren who were the lights of his life, Hailey, Madison, Elizabeth, Meea, Rhianna, Danny, Julianna and Cassie; step-grandchildren, Lindsay, Rachel and Katie; siblings, Gail Weaver, Thomas Weaver, and Paul (Ann) Weaver; brother-in-law, Vincent (Sue) Auricchio; dear nephew, Jerry Antram, and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Besides his parents and wife, Lonnie was predeceased by siblings, Jack Weaver and Janice (late Rick) Riefsnyder; mother and father-in-law, Vincent and Irene Auricchio; brother-in-law, Michael Auricchio, as well as 3 nephews, and his beloved dog Lily.

On behalf of Lonnie’s family, they would like to extend their sincerest gratitude to Niagara Hospice, his nurse, Crisanne Conley and the Lewiston #2 Fire Company for their love, compassion and continuous care to their family.

The family will be present on Friday, August 6th from 5-7 p.m. at the OTTO REDANZ FUNERAL HOME, 2215 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY (716-297-9007) where Lonnie’s funeral service and life celebration will follow visitation at 7 p.m., concluding with Military Honors. In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to Niagara Hospice. Professional arranegemts are under the care of the Goodlander family. Share condolences and memories by visiting Lonnie’s tribute page at GOODLANDERCARES.com

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