Walter B. Gladstone, 92, of Andes died peacefully at his home Tuesday, Oct. 4.
He was born on Dec. 21, 1929 in Andes to Edna Bresee Gladstone Benedict and Walter B. Gladstone. After graduating from Andes Central School, Walter attended Cornell University. His college career was cut short when he returned home to take care of his family’s business after his father fell ill. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1954 and served in the Korean War until he was honorably discharged in 1956.
On Sept. 21, 1957, Walter married Patricia Morgan of Delhi. They lived at Gladstone Acres (later Gladstone Farm) where they raised their three children on the dairy farm. Walter was passionate about working with quality dairy cows, growing crops and taking care of the land. He was extremely proud of being recognized as an FFA National Star Farmer. When the opportunity arose, Walter loved stream fishing in the local brooks. He also enjoyed hunting with friends around town.
Walter dedicated his life to giving and providing to others and volunteered for many organizations in Delaware County. He was elected as Andes Town Supervisor for four terms and mayor for three terms and served as a board member of the Andes Central School and SUNY Delhi College Council. He was also actively involved in the Cornell Cooperative Extension where he served as a board member to 4-H Camp at Shankitunk.
Walter served as a volunteer fireman for the Andes Fire Department, he was a director on the National Bank of Delaware County, served on the hospital board in Margaretville, was a Free Mason with the Delaware River Lodge Number 439, an Andes Cemetery board member, and an elder and trustee for the Presbyterian Church.
Walter is predeceased by his wife of 40 years, Patricia, and his longtime partner, Dorothy Rider.
He is survived by his three children, Polly DellaCrosse, Nancy (Scot) Harris, Walter Morgan (Margaret) Gladstone; eight grandchildren, Hope, Meghan, Morgan, Sydney, Morgan, Walter William, John and Matthew; ten great-grandchildren, Olen, Reid, Eliya, Lincoln, Harrison Walter, Hannah, Bresee, Madeline, Walter Warren, and Grant; two sisters, Gloria Hendricks and Carol Loeb; and special friend, Ricky Gabriel.
Calling hours will be held Friday, Oct. 21, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at MacArthur Funeral Home, Delhi, and Saturday, Oct. 22 at 12 to 1:30 p.m. at the Andes Presbyterian Church, with the funeral service to follow at 2 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the 4-H Camp Shankitunk, 34570 State Hwy. 10, Suite 2, Hamden, NY 13782.
