CORRECTION: In the August issue of The Dunmorean, several errors were made in the Dunmorean of the Month story.

Steve Lavelle was employed by Thompson Consumer Electronics until it closed, and then he worked for Marywood University. His wife, Donna, was employed by The Dunmorean and then by Target. Their granddaughter’s name, which was spelled incorrectly, is Isabelle.

By Steve Svetovich

Steve Lavelle has been involved in the PA American Legion for over 30 years and would not have it any other way.

Commander of Post 13, Dunmore, Lavelle, 73, last month was elected Commander of the PA American Legion.

“I am thrilled and honored they have the trust and faith in me to lead the department and help all of the veterans,” he said.

Steve is marred to the former Donna Cardoni for 53 years. She was formerly employed by The Dunmorean and worked at Target for many years. The couple’s grandchildren are Emelia Ann, Jesse Francis, Sophia Maria, Isabelle, Nicholas and Noah.

“I met my wife in high school and we’ve been together ever since,” he said.

Lavelle graduated from West Scranton High School in 1967 and went on to receive an associate’s degree in business from Lackawanna Junior College. He served six years in the U.S. Navy from 1967 through 1973 and served in Vietnam.

“I’m proud to have served in Vietnam,” he said, “We were the best they had at the time and I was proud to go there for my country. However, we suffered because it was a political war. The veterans did not need to suffer like they did.”

Lavelle worked for over 30 years at RCA at the Dunmore Industrial Park following his stint in the service. He retired in 2013. He became involved in the PA American Legion over 30 years ago when another veteran invited him to a meeting.

“Another veteran talked to me about it,” he said. “I went to a meeting, stepped in, and it just blossomed from there. I became very involved in all aspects. I just got more and more involved. I want to help veterans.”

Lavelle previously served with the PA American Legion as Master Sergeant of Arms, District Commander, and Central Section Commander. He is Past Central Vice Commander and a member of the National Security Commission.

The 31-year member of the PA American Legion, said he will work with veterans on the local level in his new position as Commander.

“I’m just very happy with the position as I love helping veterans,” he said. “I love being involved with the PA American Legion. I will always be a part of it.”

Humble and good-natured, Lavelle said he loves Dunmore.

“My wife and I raised our family in Dunmore. I love the Dunmore community.”

Lavelle said he is focusing on family, retirement, and his new position as Commander. “It all keeps me busy which I like.”