IN MEMORIAM
Burton I. Lobdell, 93;
Grew 50-Truck Fleet
ONEONTA – Burton Ivan Lobdell, 93, who grew his trucking company from one truck to a 50-vehicle fleet, passed away Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018, at the Chestnut Park Nursing Home with loved ones by his side.
He was born in the Town of Butternuts, on Oct. 26, 1925, and lived locally all of his life.
Burt was best known for his trucking company, starting with one flatbed truck picking up cans of milk from the local farmers, expanding to delivering bulk feed, spreading lime and later operating a paving business. At one time he had a fleet of 50 red trucks, with “Burton Lobdell Trucking” on the sides.
Also known as a very strong, humble and honest man, a gentle giant with large hands and an infectious laugh; Burt worked hard all of his life and helped less fortunate without ever wanting any recognition.
He married Geraldine Dijiacomo on April 1, 1945. Together they raised five children, Faith, Linda, Diane, Butch and Michele, beginning in a one-room schoolhouse on Briar Creek Road, Otego. As the family grew, his business grew and later moved the family to 66 Main St., Otego, just four doors from the school. He moved his trucking company to Keith Street, Oneonta.
In June 1970, he married Leonora Lapham, who had four children in from a previous marriage (Greg Lapham, Eleanor Marrandette, Bonnie Star and Peg Ballou). She worked side by side with Burt in the trucking and paving business.
After retirement, they were able to travel in their motor home to Florida, NASCAR races and explore some of the U.S. In their later years, they rescued a boxer mix, “Hooch,” who became a loved companion to them.
Burt is survived by his children, Faith Solomon of Vestal, Linda Porter (Robert) of Oneonta, Diane Erle of Endicott, Gary “Butch” Lobdell (Billie) of Spring Hill, Florida and Michele Stoeger of Davenport; his grandchildren, Laura Solomon, Tina Urben, Heidi (Louie) Blasetti, Michael Erle, Marissa (Nati) Martinez, Jen Lobdell, Nicole Lobdell and Tony (Hollie) Richardson; and great-grandchildren.
Burt is predeceased by his wife, Leonora Lobdell; and his grandson, Todd Solomon.
Calling hours will be f noon to 2 p.m. with a service at 2 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 2, at Main Street Baptist Church, 333 Main St., Oneonta. A private interment will take place for the family in the Sand Hill Cemetery, Unadilla, after the service.
Memorial donations may be made to Pet Rescue in Burt’s name.
Online condolences may be made by visiting www.grummonsfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are by the Lester R. Grummons Funeral Home, Oneonta.
