Harry Leon Vandelinder

VanDelinder, Harry L. Age 79, of Lakeland, FL passed away Thursday, May 27, 2010 in Elmira, NY, surrounded by his loving family.He was born December 1, 1930 in Elmira, NY, son of the late John W. and Bernice Rae (Brougham) VanDelinder.Harry was a member of the first graduating class of Williamson High School in Tioga, PA.He married Betty Christopher on September 15, 1957 and together they have enjoyed 52 years of marriage.Harry retired in 1993 after 41 years of service with Corning Inc., where he was a pipefitter/a-c/mechanic at Central Trades and Sullivan Park.He was a member of the Local 1000 Union for 58 years. Harry lived in Millerton, PA for many years.During this time he was a very active member of his community. He was a member of the Millerton Volunteer Fire Department for 20 years and served as its Vice President for 2 years.He served on the Millerton Board of the Boy Scouts of America, was Sunday School Superintendent at Millerton United Methodist Church, served as a Board Member and Trustee of the Millerton Wesleyan Church and was well known for narrating annual cantatas under the direction of Linda MacAuslan at the Millerton Wesleyan Church.He was often affectionately referred to as the "Mayor of Millerton" during his years there. After retirement Harry and Betty moved to Elmira and joined the Pennsylvania Avenue United Methodist Church still living the life of "snowbirds".During this time he was a member of Sandpiper Golf & Country Club Dance Committee and the Sandpiper Men's 9-hole golf league.In 2006 they decided to make Lakeland, FL their permanent home.He was a member of the North Lakeland Presbyterian Church.He and Betty loved their life in Florida, travelling and spending time with their family and many friends. Harry was a devoted family man and loved every moment he spent with them.His parents, son David VanDelinder and brother, John R. VanDelinder, preceded him in death.He is survived by his wife, Betty L. VanDelinder of Lakeland, FL, daughter Debb VanDelinder of Elmira, NY, son Scott (Megan) VanDelinder of Albany, OR, grandchildren John (Caryn) VanDelinder of Cheektowaga, NY, Jamie (Tim) VanDelinder-Pierce of Farmington, NY, William VanDelinder of Elmira, NY, Ethan and Skyler VanDelinder of Albany, OR, great grandchildren, Julian VanDelinder, Dillon and Jacob VanDelinder-Pierce of Farmington, NY, Sister-in-law, Shirley (Wilbur) Morgan of Elmira, brother in law, Robert Dorsey (Lois) Christopher of Newmanstown, PA, nieces, nephews and cousins, along with many, many wonderful friends.Family and friends are invited to call at Olthof Funeral Home, Inc. 1050 Pennsylvania Ave. Elmira/Southport on Sunday May 30, 2010 from 1:00 to 3:00 PM and 6:00 to 8:00 PM. Funeral Services will be held Tuesday June 1, at 11:00 AMThose who wish may remember Harry through contributions to Southern TierHospice., 11751 E. Corning Road, Corning NY 14830