Obituary of Arthur M. Preston

Preston, Arthur M. Age 92, of Horseheads, passed away at home on Friday May 15, 2015, surrounded by his loving family. Arthur was born in Breesport, NY, on October 16, 1922, the son of the late Allen D. and Velma Elosia Meddaugh Preston. Arthur was predeceased by his wife of 68 years, Arlene W. Mott; sister and brother-in-law, Ada and Perry Courtright; brother, Herman J. Preston; and brother-in-law, Richard G. Miles. He is survived by five children: daughter and son-in-law, Verena and James Rattray of Horseheads, sons and daughters in-law, Gerald and Vicki Preston of Horseheads, George and Dorothy Preston of Brooktondale, NY, daughter and son-in-law, Judy and Mark Elston of Horseheads and son and daughter-in-law, Richard and Pattie Preston of Horseheads; 12 grandchildren; six great grandchildren; and one great- great grandchild; sister and sister-in-law, Faith Miles and Florence Preston; nieces, nephews and cousins. Arthur was a U.S. Army veteran serving in the 9th Army Air Force in the European Theatre during World War II. After the war, he worked at New York Telephone, retiring after 35 years of service. Art was a man of great humor, who “worked to play”. He was constantly busy around his home and small farm property, exercising an uncommon creativity and inventiveness in everything he set out to do. He was an accomplished woodworker, and loved creating objects for family and friends. He was dedicated to his wife of 68 years, and his five children and their families. He and Arlene travelled extensively throughout the US with their 5th wheel camper and for many years belonged to two camping clubs. He was a member of the Telephone Pioneers, and the American Legion Bently Trumble Post 442 in Horseheads. He loved his John Deere Tractor, his dog, and holiday breakfasts with his family on Pancake Hill. In his words before he died: “I had it all”. Family and friends are invited to Barber Funeral Home on Monday, May, 18, 2015, from 2:00 p.m.- 4:00 p.m. and again from 6:00 p.m.– 8:00 p.m. Funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday, May 19, 2015, at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow in Maple Grove Cemetery with full military honors accorded. Memorials in Arthur’s memory can be made to Care First, 3805 Meads Creek Road Painted Post, NY 14870.