Gary Fred Decker

Gary Fred Decker formerly of Cortland, NY, passed away on Tuesday, September 19, 2017 at the age of 77. 

A resident of Cortland for more than 50 years, Gary was born on February 28, 1940 in Binghamton, NY, to the late Ernest Fred and Ruth Johnson Decker.  He graduated from Chenango Valley High School in 1958.  He was drafted into the United States Army and served as a Sergeant on the DMZ in Korea for 2 years. 

Gary worked for the Cortland City School District for more than 25 years retiring as the Superintendent of Buildings and Grounds. 

Gary was a founding member of Homer Elks Lodge #2506, was a past Secretary of the New York State Association of Superintendents of Building and Grounds and was a member of Grace Episcopal Church, the American Legion, McGraw Rod and Gun Club, the Boy Scouts of America and several other local organizations.  In his free time, he loved to hunt, snowmobile, spend time with his family and tinker in his garage.  His infectious laugh could light up any room.  He was always quick to help anyone in need especially if it involved providing a tool (he had just about one of every kind ever made), offering up advice on how to fix a car/snowmobile, or providing space to work in his garage.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Sandra; son, Gary (Lisa); grandsons, Matthew and Gary Fred; sister, Linda (David) Meade; nephew, David Eddy Meade (Patti); niece, Heather Chansler (Eric), grandnieces, Michelle Meade, Jennifer Meade, Stephanie Meade and Britani Chansler and grandnephews, David Emery Meade and Erik Chansler.

Memorial services, with Military Honors, will be at held at 1:00 pm. on Friday, September 22, 2017 at the Donald L. Barber Funeral Home, 5016 US Route 11, Homer, with Rev. Peter Williams officiating. Friends may call from Noon until the time of the service. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial contribution to the Homer Elks Lodge #2506, 82 Cortland Street, Homer, NY 13077 or the Five Rivers Council Boy Scouts of America, c/o Gary A. Decker, 244 W. Water Street, Elmira, NY 14901.

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