Gordon B. "Gordie" Talbot

Mr. Gordon B. Talbot, age 55, of New Hartford, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, June 3, 2006 at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center with his family by his side. Born in Utica on May 20, 1951, Gordon was the son of the late Warren E. and Veronica (Chambrone) Talbot. He was raised in New Hartford and graduated from New Hartford High School in 1969. He continued his studies at Morrisville Community College before joining the military. During his career in the U.S. Air Force, he attained the rank of Staff Sgt. in the Military Police with service in Greece as well as stateside. Upon his return to this area, he enrolled at Mohawk Valley Community College where earned his degree as a lab technician. On July 22, 1977 he was joined in marriage with the former Colleen A. Williams with whom he has enjoyed a compatible union of 28 years. Gordie and Colleen shared a deep and affectionate love for one another as well as an appreciation of the joys of family life. Mr. Talbot was employed with O’Brien and Gere Engineers in Syracuse. Working as a chemist with an outstanding crew of young professionals, he was responsible for the company’s environmental water testing program. Gordie was a family man whose strength of character and values were his legacy to his children. He considered the pride that he derived from their efforts and accomplishments to be the greatest achievement in his life. Gordie was “on his own team”: he knew who he was, and he stood by his convictions. He possessed a keen insight that allowed him to accurately evaluate any situation for its ethical components and the moral courage that guided him to always “do the right thing.” Gifted with a quick wit and a subtle sense of humor, he was a wonderful storyteller. Always thoughtful and original, as a gift-giver with a knack for making unique choices, often selecting items of current technology such as electrical or motorized or cutting-edge gadgets. Mr. Talbot was of the Methodist faith. He was inspired by his strong, knowledgeable, and steadfast belief in his religion. Gordie had many interests and leisure activities. From the days of his youth when he roamed the North Country enjoying the Adirondacks which was a haven for him. He enjoyed hunting, mostly for the joy of being in the woods remembering the many hunting trips with his dad. He also loved trout fishing. An avid swimmer and diver, he had recently taken up kayaking, a sport that had become such a passion that he pursued “any good place there was to float.” A love of the outdoors was also prominent in many memories that Gordie and Colleen shared and treasured, such as their Glimmerglass Lake State Park camping expeditions with the members of the “wedding party” who have been together for 30 years. Gordie was fascinated by electronics, and computers which had become a major interest in his life. He also loved music, and was able and always ready to “name that song and artist.” Mr. Talbot is survived by his wife, Colleen; a daughter and son-in-law, Rana L. and Derek Spada of Kingston NY; and a son, Ryan Emerson Talbot of Frankfort NY. He is also survived by a sister, Veronica Chase of FL; a brother and sister-in-law, Daniel and Jean Gaeta of Tampa FL; his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Yvonne and Russ Salvo; a number of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws. He also leaves many friends, including Marcia and Hank Kolakoski, Karen and Dan Reilly, and Kathy and Bill Boyle, all of whom his considered to be family. He was preceeded by his parents, Wareren and Veronica, and his son Christian. The family is deeply grateful to all those who helped during a most difficult time: the personnel of Edwards Ambulance for their compassion; the staff of the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center where he was first treated; and the personnel of the St. Elizabeth Medical Center, especially Colleen, for her valiant efforts and comforting care while she tended to Gordie and his family. Visitation will be held today (Monday) from 5-8 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Mr. Talbot’s funeral service which will be conducted at the funeral home Tuesday morning at 9:30 with the Reverend Laurie Percival Pauley officiating. Interment will take place in Forest Hill Cemetery.

Gordon B. "Gordie" Talbot

May 20, 1951 - June 3, 2006