Obituary of Winthrop A. Ames Jr.

AMES, Winthrop A. Jr. “Skip” Age 77 of West Ave. in Horseheads passed peacefully after a brief illness April 22, 2013. Skip was born April 25, 1936 in Sharon, CT to Winthrop and Margaret (Shank) Ames. He is survived by his wife Julia (Earls) Ames with whom he married Aug. 21, 1961. Daughter and son, Allen Ames and Michelle Ames both of Raleigh, NC Brother, Roger Ames of Delmar, NY and several nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of many friends. Skip was also predeceased by his brother, Robert Ames. Skip was reared in Middleburg, NY where he graduated from Middleburg Central School. Growing up, he nurtured his love of farming showing Holstein Cattle at local County and State Fairs receiving numerous ribbons for his showmanship. He graduated from from both Paul Smith College of Forestry and Cornell Univ. College of Agriculture and Life Science. He was a veteran of the US Army receiving an honorable discharge and was retired from the NY State Department of Agriculture and Markets as a Diary Products Specialist. Ship was an avid hunter and fisherman and enjoyed traveling on numerous big game trips in both the US as well as traveling abroad. He was an active member of the First United Methodist Church in Horseheads. Skip was an excellent craftsman making numerous pieces of furniture for family and friends. He enjoyed his gardening and working with small engines and motors. Skip was a member of the Corvette Club, member and Past Master of Horseheads Old Oak #364 F. & A.M., member, past Patron, and past District Grand Lecture of O.E.S. Chapter #423. He was a member of the Chemung County Rod and Gun Club, NY State Milk and Food Sanitization Assoc and the Penn-York and South Central Food Assoc. He was also a member of the United Commercial Travelers. He loved every part of his journey in life with his family and many friends. Family and friends are invited to call at the Horseheads First United Methodist Church 1034 W. Broad St. on Sat. June 8 from 10am-11:00 am where a Celebration of his life will follow there in church at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers those wishing may remember Skip with memorials to the First United Methodist Church Endowment Fund 1034 W. Broad St. Horseheads, NY 14845. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to the VA Home Base Primary Care, Erway Ambulance and the Arnot Ogden Emergency and ICU Units for their support and excellent care during his final days. NOTICE: Officers and members Free and Accepted Masons are invited to gather at the Church on Saturday June 6, 2013 at 9:30 am to conduct a memorial service for their departed brother, Winthrop A. Ames Jr. Condolences and remembrances may also be left and viewed at www.barberfuneralhome.com