John R. Townsend
CANASTOTA — John R. Townsend, 77, of 7216 Nelson Road, Canastota, died Sunday, Sept. 9, 2012, at his home, with his loving family by his side, following a brief illness.
He was born on March 6, 1935, in Walton, the son of Walter and Sadie Brace Townsend.
John spent his early years in Walton, attending the Walton schools. He later lived in Santee, Calif., for 22 years, and lived in Canastota since 1997.
He worked for the San Diego County Mental Health Department for 20 years, retiring in 1995.
John enjoyed gardening, watching old movies, especially John Wayne movies, spending time with his family, and his cat “Tabitha.”
He married Eileen Schmidt on Aug. 29, 1983, in El Cajon, Calif.
Surviving, besides his wife, Eileen; are two sons and a daughter-in-law, Jon-Andrew and Karen Townsend of Delhi, and Joel-David Townsend of Franklin; three daughters and sons-in-law, Joni-Beth and Rennie Walling of Natural Bridge, Jo-Ellen Reeder and David Simmons of Walton, and Jennifer-Nell and Kevin Soules of Meridale; 25 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.
John was predeceased by a daughter, Julie-Margot Gloster; a son, James-Abram Townsend; four brothers, Walter Townsend Jr., Ellis Townsend, Melvin Townsend and Ralph Townsend; and two sisters, Joyce Townsend and Audrey Hill.
Graveside services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 15, 2012, in Hamden Cemetery, Hamden, with the Rev. Bert More, pastor of Hobart Presbyterian Church, officiating. Interment will be in Hamden Cemetery.
Calling hours will be from 3 to 5 p.m. Wednesday at the J. Homer Ball Funeral Home, Inc., 201 James St., Canastota.
In his memory, contributions may be made to Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., 4277 Middle Settlement Road, New Hartford, NY 13413, with envelopes available at the funeral home.
