Krista T. Lafave

Winter Park, FL/ Brasher Falls, NY - Krista T. LaFave, 59, passed away Monday, March 18, 2013 at Winter Park Hospital after she lost a courageous battle with leukemia. Krista was born on October 2, 1953 in Potsdam, daughter of the late Francis "Rake" and Constance (Hoag) LaFave. She graduated from St. Lawrence Central School in 1972 and earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Fredonia State University in 1976. She married Ronald M. Cook on December 24, 1985; together they shared a union for 27 years, united to raising their daughter, Justine, with love and understanding. Krista had a love, along with a gift of musical talent; known and followed by many as a star vocalist in several bands, performing across the country. In the summers, she sang at the "Crossroad's" in Moira to the delight of family and friends. After her two decade music career, she earned her Master's in Education and went on to teach at Orange County Public Schools in Florida. She flourished as a teacher mentoring and nurturing young minds, providing guidance and concern for their prosperity both in and out of school. Krista had a positive attitude, whose kind, fun-loving spirit lit up a room. In addition to her passion for music, she found peace on the beaches of the Florida Gulf Coast, relaxation in the contents of a good book, and shared love with family and friends. She is survived by her husband, Ronald; her daughter, Justine L. Cook; one brother Donald and Laurie LaFave of Brasher Falls; five sisters, Mary and Joel Gingras of Doylestown, PA, Jan Hall of Webster, Debbie and Reed Ashley of Spring Hill, TN, Valerie and Jim Stickney of Brookdale, and Andree and Al Tower, Jr., of Chateaugay; many nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Krista's Life will be held on Sunday, April 28, 2013 at 1:00 pm at the American Legion in Winthrop. Memories and condolences can be shared with her family at www.hammillfh.com.