Albert "Mike" E. Sova

Brasher – Mr. Albert E. "Mike" Sova, 85, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by the comfort and companionship of his family and friends. Arrangements are entrusted to Hammill Funeral Home in Winthrop. Mike was born in Brasher on October 11, 1929 to the late Leslie Joseph and Blanch M. (Stark) Sova. He was raised locally and attended the Helena Landing Bridge School until the 6th grade. On June 27, 1953 he married Elvira S. Lavair at the Helena Episcopalian Church. They were blessed with 4 children and a devoted union of 44 years. Elvira passed away on October 17, 1997. A hard worker by nature, throughout life Mike worked several jobs. First working at ALCOA, he then assisted in the building of the St. Lawrence Seaway, next he held a position with the State Highway Department, and then eventually took over his family farm; all while working construction for himself. Mike enjoyed hunting and fishing, especially with his boys. He adored his grandchildren and loved spending time teaching them how to do all kinds of things. He also had a love for animals, particularly horses. Whether you knew him as "Mike" "Gramps" or "Boots", he was the same genuine man with a friendly spirit and contagious smile. He is survived by his 3 daughters: Mary and Joseph Durant of Brasher Falls, Alberta and John Sauve of Oswego, and Melica Sova of Louisville, 8 grandchildren: Mike Durant of Brasher Falls, Guy and Michelle Durant of Massena, Joseph and Mandy Durant of Brasher Falls, Joanna and Daniel Sova-Smith of NC., Aaron and Sherry Fregoe of Brushton, Tom Durant of Brasher Falls, Jacob Durant of Bombay, and Eric Gibbs of Winthrop, 8 great-grandchildren: Shane, Guy, Devin, Nia, Nelly, Ethan, Aubrey, and Alex, brother and sister-in-law, Carl and Christine Sova of Brasher Center, sister, Lena Yaddow of Brasher Iron Works, 2 brothers-in-law: Kenneth and Keith Lavair of Utica, and several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Mike was predeceased by, his son in infancy, Michael, sister and brother-in-law, Ruth and Clifford Newtown, and 3 brothers: Glen "Pat", Joseph, and Robert Sova. Visitation will be Friday from 2-4 and 6-8pm, and Saturday from 9-10am at the funeral home. Mike's Funeral Service will be Saturday at 11:00 at the Life in His Arms Community Church in North Lawrence. Burial will follow at Carville Cemetery in Helena. For those wishing to express an act of kindness, memorial contributions may be made in Mike's honor to Hospice & Palliative Care of St. Lawrence Valley. Memories and condolences may be shared with his family at www.hammillfh.com.