Frederick Charles Spafford

Frederick C. Spafford, 94, of Cortland, passed away on July 12, 2025 while under the care of Hospice and his loving family.

A lifelong area resident, he was born September 2, 1930, a son of the late Charles Spafford and Doris Rowe.

Following his graduation from Cortland High School, Fred enlisted in the U.S. Army, and was honorably discharged in 1953.

He had been employed at Sears & Roebuck in Cortland and Binghamton, and retired from Thayer Appliances at the age of 89, where he worked for many years in sales and repair at both the Cortland and Ithaca stores.

He enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting and spending time at their camp on Owasco Lake. He was a member of the American Legion, Cortland Microd Club and was a longtime volunteer with the Cortland Fire Department.

Fred was known by many as a “Mr. Fix-It”. He could fix or repair anything from cars to appliances.  He enjoyed building toys such as doll houses and trains for the grandkids.  An all-around handyman around his home and anyone that needed help. He was always there to lend a hand. A gift his family and friends were especially grateful for. 

Surviving is his wife of 74 years, Melissa J. Hurlbert Spafford; his five children, Keith Spafford of Virginia, Vickie (Jack) Hess of Homer; Karen Spafford; Randy Spafford (Tamara Dunham) and Missy Spafford (Jay Ludwig) all of Cortland; eight grandchildren, Cale Spafford of Virginia Beach, VA; Crystal Spafford (Jared Manning) of Whitsett, NC; Brad (Jackie) Spafford of Virginia; John Anderson (Erin Ladoceour) of Nedrow; Jason (Ashley) Anderson of Jamesville; Katlyn Anderson (Matt Olmstead) of Cortland; Ian (Emily) Spafford of Newfield and Nicole Williams (Mike Stranahan) of Cortland; as well as eleven great-grandchildren, and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was predeceased by a brother, William Spafford and a sister, Dorothy Stephenson.

Friends and family are invited to a Celebration of Life from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 17,2025 at the home of his daughter, Vickie Hess, 10 Elm Avenue, Homer.

Memorial contributions in Mr. Spafford’s name may be directed to the charity of one's choice.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Frederick Charles Spafford, please visit our floral store.