Obituary of William Bruce Groff

GROFF, William Bruce Age 99 and long time resident of Federal Road, in Erin passed away on Saturday, July 29, 2017. Bill was born in Elmira, NY, a son to Walter and Ruth (Williams) Groff. Bill was predeceased by his wife, Jane (Cartmell) Groff on January 5, 2008 and son, W. Bruce in April of 2013. Bill is survived by his son and daughters, Barbara Jane and the Rev. Charles Newberry of Harwich Port, MA, Nancy Ann and John Witton of Bradenton, FL, and Richard and Stephanie Groff of Parrish, FL; Daughter-in-law, Carolyn of Venice, FL; 7 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; and 4 great-great grandchildren. Bill graduated in 1940 from NYS College of Forestry at Syracuse University where he majored in pulp and paper manufacturing. He met Jane Cartmell who he married in 1941. They were together for 70 years. Bill was a veteran of the US Navy Reserve serving during WWII. He worked in the paper and box manufacturing industry in companies across the US. Bill was active in civic, church, Boy Scout and Masonic organizations. When president of the Upper Mohawk Scout Council they purchased land in the Adirondack’s, now named Cedarlands, and started a new wilderness scout camping area. He was an Eagle Scout and was also awarded the Silver Beaver, scouting’s highest award. His hobbies were beekeeping, gardening, fruit tree and berry raising all of which resulted in much produce that he gave away. This did reduce the amount of time he had for hunting and fishing. In his later years he delivered Meals on Wheels, well into his 90’s. Family and friends are invited to call at the Barber Funeral Home, 413 South Main Street, Horseheads on Thurs Aug. 3, 2017 from 12:00 Noon-2:00 pm. His service will take place at the conclusion of calling hours at 2:00 pm. With burial service and military honors to follow in Ashland Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, those wishing may remember Bill with memorials to the Boy Scouts of America Five Rivers Council 244 W. Water St., Elmira, NY 14901. www.barberfuneralhome.com