Mr. Richard W. "Dick" Yerdon

Mr. Richard W. “Dick” Yerdon, age 68, passed away on Thursday, June 23, 2016 at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center with his loving family at his side. Born in Cooperstown, NY on September 29, 1947, Richard was the son of the late Delmer S. and Ruth (Swartz) Yerdon. He was a graduate of Richfield Springs Central High School/Class of 1965. Dick enlisted in the United States Navy Seabees, and honorably served 2 tours of duty in Vietnam and concluded his time in service in Guantanamo Bay in Cuba. It was a war that incurred casualties of conscience by veterans, and Dick was quiet about his involvement for years after. On October 5, 1968, Dick married the former Barbara DeMarco with whom he shared 47 years. They needed one another and he trusted his Bobbie like no one else. “Love you” was woven into their everyday vocabulary. Dick worked as a journeyman electrician with the IBEW Local #43 and continued his membership affiliation during his retirement. He returned to higher education in his field and received an Associate degree in Electrical Technology from M.V.C.C. in the 1980’s. This accomplishment enhanced the love of his vocation and the outdoors. He retired in 2011 to enjoy the pleasures and slower pace of life in later years. Dick was generous of heart and a genuine family man who enjoyed visiting and sharing company and conversation with loved ones. He was multi-talented in troubleshooting and he could fix anything. And, he was a perfectionist in everything he did. If a job was not done right the first time, he would do it over again, no matter how much time it took. Dick’s affinity for the outdoors brought him peace and harmony. It was a calm place and time for him, whether fishing in a bass boat or hunting in all seasons. He admired horses and was so proud that his grandfather had introduced him to these beautiful equines. He was overjoyed that his daughter-in-law and granddaughter owned a Hobby farm and shared the interest with him. Dick converted to Catholicism and privately professed his faith to the Lord. His life was enriched by his wife, his children, and the special grace of grandchildren, and he held their needs in his heart at all times. It was a good life, made better by loved ones who gave their best, and honored him in return. Dick is survived by his wife, Barb; his son and daughter-in-law, Scott T. and Gabrielle Yerdon of West Monroe NY; his grandchildren, Dean Yerdon, and Savanna Yerdon; and his sister, Judi Ginder of TN. His extended family includes his nieces, nephews, especially acknowledging Mark Yerdon, who was a good soul, helpful and dependable to Dick and his family; great-nieces, great-nephews, cousin Shirley (Yerdon) DiSpirito; in-laws Jeannette DeCicco, and Tom and Marie DeMarco; and his friend Robert “Bobby” Gulla, a protege and beloved young man who shared Dick’s love of the outdoors. He was predeceased by his brother, Henry Yerdon; and his sister, Beverly Kaiser. The family thanks the incredible team of doctors and nurses at CTICU at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center; family and friends who were so supportive with love and prayers during the past month of trying times; and the Maynard Volunteer Fire Department for their timely response and compassion. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Expressions of sympathy in the form of donations may be made to the Maynard Volunteer Fire Department; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Richard’s funeral service will commence on Wednesday 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 Rev. William Mesmer with Military Honors conferred. Interment will take place in Crain Memorial Cemetery in Richfield Springs at the convenience of the family.

Mr. Richard W. "Dick" Yerdon

September 29, 1947 - June 23, 2016