Herbert J. "Herbie" Telfer

Mr. Herbert J. “Herbie” Telfer, age 62, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, March 8, 2013 in the comfort and privacy of his home. Born in New York City on September 21, 1950, Herbert was the son of the late Herbert J. and Jeanie (Callahan) Telfer. He also knew the love and guidance of his second dad and mom, Joseph Sr. and Jennie (Arcuri) Callahan. Raised and educated locally, he was a graduate of Whitesboro High School/Class of 1968. On June 18, 2005 he married the former Tammy DeShane; he embraced life with Tammy, blending their families and sharing a heartfelt commitment. A strong and honorable man, Herbie was endowed with an industrious work ethic and held multiple jobs. He operated D & S Hauling Company, and Telfer Bedding. He then accepted a position as a security guard at the State Office Building, and currently at Bassett Health Care in Herkimer. He spent his evenings working as a bartender at Bengees Tavern & Restaurant. Herbie met the needs of his family, especially his children. He blended humor into his life and was quite the jokester. He was also a helpful man with a good heart. He enjoyed camping in the Rome area and relaxing around the flames of a fire pit or a campfire. At home, he reveled in relaxing in his recliner watching television while eating moon pies and sweets with his pitbull Kira by his side. He was deeply spiritual and kept his faith alive. Herbie is survived by his wife, Tammy; his mother, Jennie of Poland; his children, Ryan Telfer and Angela Matuszek, Victoria Schneider, and David Telfer, and their mother, Joan Wilcox; Matthew Telfer, James Raynor, and Jessica Molina; the memory of his son-in-law, William Schneider, who preceded him in death; his grandchildren, Katelynn, and Christopher; Lyle, and Jasmine; and his great-granddaughter, Julianna Mae. He also leaves behind his siblings and their spouses, Joseph Callahan Jr., Ferdinand Callahan, Anna and William Bell, Michael Callahan, and Mary and John Metzgier; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, in-laws John Sr. and Barb DeShane, John Jr. and Dina DeShane, Lance and Rose DeShane, Jennifer DeShane and fiancé Henry Simard; and the many friends with whom he was blessed throughout his life. He was predeceased by his father, Joseph Callahan, Sr.; and his brother, Louis Callahan. Herbie’s family extends heartfelt gratitude to Utica Police Department officers Sgt. Michael D’Ambrose and David Chirillo as well as the Utica Fire Department EMT’s for their efforts and compassion. Visitation will be held Monday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Herbert’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Tuesday morning at 9:30 from the funeral home and at 10:30 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Fr. Mark Kaminski.

Herbert J. "Herbie" Telfer

September 21, 1950 - March 8, 2013