FUNERAL AT BELDEN AUDITORIUM
Family, Friends Bid
Farewell To Bud Pirone
Friends, family, colleagues and students filled the Belden Auditorium at Oneonta High School this afternoon where a service was held celebrating the life of William “Bud” Pirone, a beloved teacher, OHS principal and coach, who passed away on Jan. 13 at age 80. Retired Methodist minister Dick Breuninger gave the sermon, remarking, “If Dick saw paradise as a walk in the woods on a golden afternoon, the best way to honor his memory would be to go for a walk on a lovely day. If it’s too cold to walk, sit down with a good book.” Pirone’s son and daughter, Michael Pirone and Kim Pirone Baskin, seen at left, remarked on memories of their father. “My father had a reputation as a harsh grader, and once told me he gave himself a B+ as a father and husband,” said Michael. “But I gave him an A+.” (Ian Austin/AllOTSEGO.com)
We were ’56 OHS Classmates of Bud Pirone. He was our class president,confidant,mentor,entertainer, (stories), and a cherished friend for 75 years, (Bruce & he were class mates @ Bugbee elementary.
We both loved Bud & Rose Anne who were always gracious and loving to us. We had many great “belly laughs” together. Bud gave us an example of great courage, persistence and endurance. He had many health challenges as a young adult. We are very fortunate to have had him on our life’s journey.