SHERBURNE – William A. LaPera, 78, of State Highway 80 formerly of Whitesboro, passed away Friday March 30, 2007 at Albany Medical Center.
He was born in New Rochelle on Sept. 2, 1928 a son of the late Anthony and Helena White LaPera and graduated from East Chester High School. On Sept. 8, 1991 in North Norwich he married the former Margaret A. Owen.
“Sweet William” as he was well known, was a highly respected professional musician in his field. He played the guitar, the bass, as well as the steel guitar. He played for many area bands, including the Ronnie Smith Band and had recorded many records. He was broadcasted on WTLB and WIBX. He also played in Florida and taught guitar lessons to many.  William was employed by Broadacres Nursing Home and Firshing Manufacturing, Utica until his retirement. He attended the Sherburne United Methodist Church.
Surviving are his wife Margaret; his children Robert J. LaPera of Bridgewater; William T. and Amanda LaPera of Laguna, Calif; Jeannie S. LaPera and fiancée Todd Baker of W. Winfield; Robynne  and Coreyn Napier of Franklin, Tenn. His step children Vivian and Dewitt Yarnall of Norwich; Tammy M. Boise of Smyrna; Cristy L. Darrow of Albany; a brother and sister in law Richard and Doris LaPera of Whitesboro; a sister Barbara F. Stahlberg of Barneveld; six grandchildren; one step grandchild and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday from the Sherburne United Methodist Church, Chapel St. Sherburne. Interment will be held in Riverview Cemetery, Oxford. Friends are invited and may call Tuesday from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Burgess & Tedesco Funeral Home 10 S. Main St. Sherburne.