Donald Dufton

Dufton, Donald F. Age 87 passed away, Tuesday, February 16th, 2010 at the St. Joseph's Hospital. He was born in Delaware County, NY on June 15, 1922. He moved to Horseheads, NY whom his family was on the path of adventure. Don Worked many years for the Dairymen's League, Rotary Gas Co., Sullivan Brothers and lastly Queen's Farms in Deposit, NY from where he retired. He also served in the United States Army during World War II. Last October 2009, he and his surviving wife, the former Shirley Turner, celebrated their 65th Anniversary. His three daughters were the pride of his life; Judy Palmer of Lancaster, PA., Donna Van de Bogart of Cortland, NY, and Mary Ann (John) Halstead of Horseheads, NY. His 7 grandchildren were Papa's pride and joy; Granddaughters, Kimberly Palmer of Lancaster, PA, Amanda Halstead of Horseheads, NY. Grandsons; Todd (Lori) Palmer of Phoenixville, PA, Grant Palmer of Mill Valley, CA, Ryan Donald Riese of Cortland, NY, Nicholas Riese of Round Hill, VA, and Adam Halstead of Jacksonville, FL. He also had 4 Great grandchildren; Tucker, Dagny, Dylan and Kipp Palmer. Family and friends are invited to call at the Olthof Funeral Home, Inc. 1050 Pennsylvania Avenue, Elmira, NY Saturday, February 20th, 2010 from 5:00PM to 7:00PM. Funeral services celebrating the life of Don will take place following the calling hours at 7:00PM. The Reverend Scott Wolf will officiate.Interment will be at a time convenient with the family. Don's outgoing personality surely rewarded him with the very joyous life he lived. He was always such a happy-go-lucky man. No one was ever surprised to get a tap on the shoulder all because he wanted to say "Hello" and have a short "pass the time of day visit." His quick wit and ready smile blessed him with a host of caring friends. He loved his backyard and his many birds and squirrels that he kept well-fed, always hoping someone would stop by for a lemonade and a little chat. His little house was his fort. He was always saying "Nothing could be better than this." And he truly meant it.He was predeceased by his parents, Gideon and Mary Dufton, grandson Al E. Riese, and sons in law Kipp Palmer and David Van de Bogart. Those wishing may make memorials in Don's name to the Horseheads Volunteer Fire Department, Horseheads, NY.A 'Candle of Remembrance' may be left for the family in obituaries atwww.olthof.com