Obituary of Duane R. York

CANISTEO: Duane R. York, 84, of Eleventh St. passed away Monday, February 13, 2017 at St. James Mercy Hospital following a brief illness. Duane was born April 26, 1932 in Canisteo, to the late Earl M. and Mary G. (VanFleet) York. On October 23, 1954 in Hornell, he married the former Lois M. Dye who survives and resides in Canisteo. Duane was a lifelong resident of Canisteo and graduated from Canisteo Central School in 1950. He worked for many years at the former Acme Grocery Store. He then owned and operated Duane’s Radiator Repair in Canisteo for 23 years. After ownership transferred to his son Steve, he became a rural letter carrier for the U.S. Postal Service out of Arkport retiring in 1994. Duane was very much involved with his community where he served as mayor for a short period time from 1975-77 and was also on the board of trustees. He was a former member of the Canisteo Fire Dept. from 1953-55, and was a member, past president and treasurer of the former Canisteo Civic Club. Other memberships include the former Canisteo Valley Archers and was a DEC certified archery instructor. Duane was also a faithful member of the First United Methodist Church in Canisteo and was an active member of the Men’s Group where he served as treasurer and past president. He also served time on the church PPR Committee, Board of Trustees, Ad Board and was a choir member. His time outside meant a great deal to him, gardening, fishing, hunting and spending time with his family and friends. In addition to his wife Lois, to whom he was married to for 62 years, Duane is survived by a son: Steve (Terri) York of Canisteo, three daughters: Patricia (Leonard) Fuller of Savona, Teal (David) Hardy of Wayland and Debra (Robert) Moose of Swain. Ten wonderful grandchildren: Jeremy (Laura) Fuller, Amanda (Matt) Brien, Cecily Hardy, Jonathan Hardy, Benjamin (Meghan) Hardy, Kristen and Leslie Moose, Hilary, Morgan and Amber York, great grandchildren: Jacob, Hannah, Rayna and Easton Fuller and Amelia Brien. Duane is also survived by a sister: Anita (Robert) Gams of Canisteo, sister-in-law: Lois York of Canisteo, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a brother: Van York, two sisters: Mary Dee Barnes and Bertha Smith. There will be no prior calling hours. A memorial service and celebration of life for Duane will take place Friday at 11:00 am at the First United Methodist Church, Greenwood St. in Canisteo, with Rev. Beverly Welch officiating. Memorial contributions in Duane’s name may be made to the First United Methodist Church General Fund, 37 Greenwood St. Canisteo, N.Y. 14823.