IN MEMORIAM: Donald A. Eldred, 73;
Third-Generation Farmer In Hartwick
HARTWICK – Donald A. Eldred, 73, a third-generation farmer, passed away at Bassett Hospital on Thursday August 2, 2018 after a short illness.
He was born May 17,1945, in Cooperstown, the only son of W. Stuart Eldred and Letha M. Tuller Eldred.
Donald graduated in Cooperstown High School’s Class of 1964 and earned an AAS degree from SUNY Cobleskill. Following college, he enlisted served his country in the Air Force for 3 ½ years. He was stationed in Thailand for a while where he attained the rank of sergeant.
After his service he returned home to help his father run the family farm in Hartwick, which he bought in 1972. He married Marjorie L. Morse on October 1, 1977 and they ran the farm together for 36 years.
He was a member of the Hartwick Christian Church, Otsego County Cooperative Extension, Farm Bureau, Hartwick Town Insurance Co., the Hinman Hollow Grange (where he obtained the 5th degree), ASCS Committee, and a 50-year member of Dairylea Milk Coop.
After Donald and his wife retired and sold the farm, they built a small “dream” cabin on the property that had been in his family over 100 years. He was the third generation to run the farm. He was very proud to have the original 1912 deed to the farm and the first tractor, a 1950’s “M” tractor on steel. It would “go” when nothing else would!
Donald enjoyed many hours of hunting with family and friends. He also liked snow mobiling, taking bus trips, and taking rides to see where the roads came out.
He is survived by his wife Marjorie and two special children, Tammy of Oneonta and Ryan of Mount Vision; many cousins and their families; and the family dog, “Snickers”, who liked to cuddle with him in the chair by the fire.
He was predeceased by his parents and many aunts and uncles.
Funeral services with military honors will be 1 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 7, at the Hartwick Cemetery, with the Rev. Laverne Saxer officiating.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Hartwick Fire Company No. 1, PO Box 86, Hartwick, NY 13348, or to the American Diabetes Association.
Arrangements are under the care of Tillapaugh Funeral Service, Cooperstown.