Obituary of Willard Rockefeller

Willard R. Rockefellerof Apalachin Willard R. Rockefeller, age 74, passed away suddenly at his home on Monday, June 23, 2008. He was predeceased by his parents, Sarah and Mervin Rockefeller; and grandson, Cody Alexander Makoske, in 2001. He is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Marjorie (Winans) Rockefeller. She took such good care of him each and every day, and will miss him so very much. Also, he is survived by his loving children, Kevin R. Rockefeller, Apalachin, Karen (Rod) Makoske, Binghamton; and grandson, Colby Andrew Makoske, who lighted up his life with so much laughter and joy. He is also survived by sister, Jean A. Cheer, Williston, Vermont; brothers, Gordon (Veronica) Rockefeller, Vestal, N.Y., Frank (Joan) Rockefeller, Friendsville, Pa.; also many loved nieces and nephews. He was a tremendous husband, father, brother, grandpa and best friend who will be missed dearly. He was valedictorian of his 1952 graduating class of Rush High School. He served in the US Army stationed in Korea from 1956 to 1958. He was employed by IBM Endicott, for 36 years and retired as a second level manager. He was a 50 year member of the Masonic Lodge in Leraysville, Pa. He graduated from IBM's tool making program and attended Harper College and Penn State for various courses. He enjoyed golfing, hunting, coin collecting and spending time with his family and friends. He enjoyed going to his farm in Friendsville, Pa. and chatting with the local neighbors and going to his stone quarry. He loved doing landscaping around the house and keeping the lawn meticulous. He could fix any toy his grandson could take apart. Funeral Services will be held Friday, June 27 at 11:00 a.m., at Coleman and Daniels Funeral Home, 765 Main St., Vestal N.Y. Burial will be in the Vestal Park Cemetery. The family will receive friends and family at the funeral home on Thursday, June 26 from 5 to 8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to United Health Services Hospitals, 10-42 Mitchell Ave., Cardiac Rehabilitation, Phelps Hall, Binghamton, N.Y. 13903.