Bernard “B.J.” McCormick

B.J. grew up in Saranac Lake where he attended local schools and was an exceptional football player for the high school football teams. B.J. worked in construction for many years, learning the trade and eventually becoming a welder. He worked as a welder for Iron Works Welding in Lake Placid for several years and had recently purchased the business. B.J. enjoyed camping, boating and snowmobiling. He especially loved motorcycling and welding.

He is survived by his partner Elizabeth Cass of Saranac Lake, his mother Betsy (Charles) Corris of Saranac Lake, his father Ernest (Peggy) Rice of Saranac Lake, his stepfather William Latham of Vermontville, two daughters Briella Donaldson and Kaylee Corris of Saranac Lake, one sister Deserah Latham of Vermontville, three brothers Cade Corris, Kegan Rice and Michael Rice all of Saranac Lake. He is also survived by his grandmother, Isabel McCormick, and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his grandfather Bernard R. McCormick in 2002.

B.J. will be remembered fondly as friendly, fun-loving and kind-hearted. He will be missed deeply by his family and friends.

Calling hours will take place at the Fortune-Keough Funeral Home on Thursday, July 29, from 4 to 7 p.m. A funeral service will immediately follow at the funeral home at 7 p.m. with Rev. Alan Lamica officiating. Burial will take place at St. Bernard’s Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Friends wishing to remember Bernard “B.J.” McCormick may make memorial contributions to Betsy Corris in order to help establish a memorial college scholarship fund in care of the funeral home. Family and friends can also share their condolences at fortunekeoughfuneralhome.com.