John E. Ames

John E. "Link" Ames Age 90, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 9, 2017 at the Chemung County Nursing Facility. He was born October 8, 1926 in Elmira to the late William and Lillian (Day) Ames. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 67 years, Dorothy M. (DeRenzo) Ames; one granddaughter, Kelly Marie Caccia; great grandson, Max. He was preceded in death by his brother, Douglas (Marjorie) Ames; sisters, Marcella (Dan) Petty, Margaret (Stanley) Swithers, Lillian (Richard) York and Elinor Ames. In 2015 he was predeceased by his beloved daughter, Mary Elaine Davis. John was a Veteran of the US Navy, serving during WWII on the USS Bremerton, which was commissioned in San Diego, CA in 1943. Having been on the ship's first crew serving in the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans earned him a plaque. For over 28 years, Link worked for the city of Elmira. He was a faithful communicant of St. Mary's Church Southside for 67 years. He volunteered on several committees at the church and made many friends. John also enjoyed bowling, playing Euchre and Bingo. Family and friends are invited to call at St. Mary's Church, 224 Franklin Street, Elmira, NY on Thursday, January 12, 2107 from 10:00 to 11:00 AM. A Mass of Christian burial will follow at 11 AM with the Reverend Walter Wainwright celebrating the Mass. Interment will follow in St. Peter & Paul's Cemetery where the Chemung County Veteran's Honor Squad will accord Mr. Ames Military Honors and Father Wainwright will offer the committal prayers. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to the Alzheimer's Foundation, St. Mary's Church or to a charity of one's choice. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Olthof Funeral Home, Inc., 1050 Pennsylvania Ave., Elmira/Southport, NY. Memories of Link may be left on his tribute wall at www.olthof.com.