Obituary of Gary B. Slater

SLATER, Gary B. Slater, Age 82 of Endicott and formerly of Watkins Glen Passed away at home on March 25, 2016. Gary was beloved husband of Nancy (Robbins) Slater, cherished father of Gary (Lisa) Slater of Rochester, NY, Craig (Deborah) Slater of Williamsville, NY, Terri (Stephen) Schmitt of Endicott, NY, and Karen Slater of Queensbury, NY. Adored Grandfather of Emily, Kaylin, and Jared (Christine) Slater and Leah (fiancé John) and Dylan Shea. Great Grandfather of Dominic Slater. Gary was son of the late Frank and Ethel (Burris) Slater and brother to the late Jack (Hermie) and the late Roland (Rosalie) Slater. Gary is also survived by sisters-in-law, brother-in-law, and many loving nieces and nephews. Gary had an illustrious career in education, teaching history at Watkins Glen Middle and High School for over 20 years, working tirelessly for fellow teachers as a labor negotiator for NYSUT, and then working as a BOCES representative and after that as a private labor negotiator and mediator in education and labor matters. He earned the respect and friendship of those on both sides of the fences and loved the challenge, analysis, and battling involved in resolving disputes. His High School sweetheart and wife of 63 years Ioved and supported him and their family throughout. Gary was also a former Town Justice for the Town of Reading; a former Director of Hidden Valley 4H Camp; and built many structures at the Watkins Glen Race Course during summer time off. Gary was passionate about politics, principles and integrity and stirred many pots of trouble and outcry which he much enjoyed. He will be missed by his coffee clutch friends and servers and other strangers he routinely made friends with. He was a friend to all, loved by so many, and will be sorely missed and celebrated. His beloved garden and Myrtle Beach will wonder where he went - we will see you there later. Family and friends are invited to call at the Barber Funeral Home 413 S. Main St. Horseheads on Wed. Mar. 30, 2016 from 4-7:00 pm. His service will take place privately. Those wishing may remember Gary with memorials to Lourdes Hospice 4102 Old Vestal Rd., Vestal, NY 13850 or First Presbyterian Church of Endicott, 29 Grant Ave. Endicott, NY 13760. Special Thanks to the heath care workers at Lourdes Hospice for their compassion and care of Gary. Condolences and remembrances at www.barberfuneralhome.com