Obituary of John Devost

John Devost Jr., 88, formerly John St., died May 6, 2013 at Baptist Health and Rehabilitation Center following a long illness. Born in Stratford, NY on April 16, 1925 he was the son of the late John and Tillie Olenick Devost. Following graduation from Fort Plain High School in 1942, he enrolled in the U.S. Maritime Service and served as a Purser-Pharmacist's mate aboard various wartime merchant vessels completing his final voyage on June 26, 1946. He received the meritorious medal of continuous service. John graduated from Bryant College School of Accounting and Finance in 1950 with a degree in Accounting Magna Cum Laude. He served in the U.S. Army from September/1950 and transferred to ERC with the rank of Sergeant on September 13, 1952. Mr. Devost commenced his 35 years of service with the General Electric Co. by assignment to the Business Training Course (BTC) and the Financial Management Program. During his career with G.E. he served on the Traveling Auditor Staff including assignment to the Alleghany Ludlum Steel Corp, as a contract auditor. During this assignment he was granted a management award for significant cost savings. John's assignments also included service with GE LST-G, KAPL and the Installation and Service Engineering Division. Mr. Devost was a member of the American Legion, G.E. Quarter Century Club and the Elfun Society. John was a communicant of St. Joseph's Church in Scotia for many years. Survivors include his daughter, Karen M. Hall of Newport News, VA; a sister, Mildred Trautner of Rome, NY; a brother, William Devost of Fort Plain. Predeceased were his sisters, Julia and Sofia and his brothers Michael , George and Andrew. John is survived by his dearly beloved companion of many years, Florence "Flo" Marco of Scotia. A private service will be conducted at the convenience of the family. Burial will be at Most Holy Redeemer Cemetery, Niskayuna.