Scott M. Delahant

Born April 7, 1982, in Saranac Lake, he was the younger son of William A. and Terry J. (Praeger) Delahant. Scott grew up in Lake Placid and attended Lake Placid High School, where he was a vibrant member of the school’s Drama Club, Choir and several other clubs and organizations, including four years on the yearbook committee. Scott played a key role in the snow sculpture victories during the Winter Carnival festivities and served as Vice President of his senior class before graduating in 2000. Following high school, he went on to graduate with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from SUNY Stony Brook in 2004.

After college, Scott returned home and eventually went back to work at the family’s store on Main Street, “The Lake Placid Christmas Company.” Adamant that he would only work a very short time before moving on to something else, Scott began to realize the potential this business might have. Climbing through the ranks, Scott eventually took the reins of the Christmas store sleigh from his father and mother. He filled his proverbial Santa sack with all his ideas and dreams to grow the company, and with the help of his many “elves” over the years, Scott productively ran the family business for over twenty years. His business success was evident by the many return patrons who year after year, came back to visit Scott. They all knew they could count on him to produce their personalized ornaments or satisfy their fudge demands. His relentless drive to perfecting his crafty ornaments and award-winning store window displays became an obsession. His determination was often on full display for the Lake Placid Police Department’s midnight patrols, as they would often spot him working in the windows late at night. Greeting tourists and spreading holiday cheer year-round, with his warm smile and welcoming spirit made everyone feel at home, and he became a beloved fixture in the community. Working alongside his nephew Alex for the past few years however, were truly his most cherished moments in the store. It is the family’s hope that Scott’s memory will carry on each time someone hangs one of Scott’s hand-painted ornaments on their Christmas tree.

For those who knew Scott, certain things will always bring his memory rushing back. His passion for life, his beaming smile, the way he cherished shared moments with those he loved, or simply by one of his many nicknames; “Smokes,”; “Scooter,”; “Bud,”; “Scott of Main,” or “Uncle Cott,” to name a few. He was a true friend, a source of endless laughter and had a one-of-a- kind personality. He had a rare gift for making those around him feel valued and seen. The playful nicknames he gave others reflected his ability to create meaningful connections, and his infectious laugh and unwavering loyalty left an indelible mark on everyone he met. His outward personality and affable demeanor are what drew people to him. Scott enjoyed being with his friends and family most. Always looking to learn something new, Scott started taking his talents to the kitchen to cook and try new recipes. His famous cheeseball hors d’oeuvre was his signature dish at most every get together.

Scott was also well known to possibly be the biggest fan of “Dave Matthews Band.”

Scott likely holds the North Country record for attending the most DMB concerts by any one person. He was very proud to say that he attended “Woodstock ’99,” a “Farm Aid Music Festival,” as well as the “Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival.” As much as he loved to have as much fun as one can tolerate, he also valued his solitude. One of his favorite ways to relax and unwind at night was up in his apartment watching “Law & Order” on the television.

A young man with large heart, a giving soul and as stubborn as the day is long, Scott was loved by everyone. He was a devoted son, brother, uncle and nephew, and his love for them knew no bounds. His loyalty to those he cared for extended far and wide and his enduring friendships were a testament to his generous heart. Even in the end, Scott was still trying to give his all as an organ donor. His memory lives on inside our hearts. He will be truly missed. May he rest in eternal peace!

Scott is survived by his mother Terry J. of Lake Placid, his older brother Nicholas P. (Diane), of Saranac Lake, his niece and nephew who will miss their “Uncle Cott,” Alexander C. and Madelyn L. of Saranac Lake. His aunt Michelle Pons and her partner Jerry Cruze of Tennessee. His uncles Thomas H. and J. Michael (Karla) of Saranac Lake. His uncle Jeffrey Praeger and his cousin Calvin Praeger both of Colorado. Scott was predeceased by his father William A., his cousin Jennifer Praeger, his aunt Ruby Praeger, and his many four-legged friends.

A Memorial Service will be held from 12 to 3 p.m., on Friday, Feb. 7, 2025, at the M.B. Clark Funeral Home in Lake Placid. A Prayer service will take place at 2:30 p.m., at the funeral home with Reverend Kenneth R. Hitch officiating. A reception will take place immediately after the service.

Memorial contributions may be made to “Donate Life America” at donatelife.net, the “Tri-Lakes Humane Society” of Saranac Lake at trilakeshumanesociety.com, or to a charity of your choice in memory of Scott. The M. B. Clark, Inc., Funeral Home in Lake Placid is in charge of arrangements.

Please visit www.mbclarkfuneralhome.com to sign the online guest book, leave condolences, share a memory, or upload a photograph to be added to the memorial tribute book for the family to Cherish.