NORTH NORWICH – Roger A. Pike, 66, long-time resident of North Norwich, passed away Thursday morning, Aug. 13, 2009, at his home, following a short illness.
The son of Bion and Mary Simonson Pike, Roger was born in Gilbertsville in May of 1943. He was a hard worker from the beginning, quitting school early to help his family and working as a farm hand in his early years. His next job was as a mechanic and trucker, transporting cattle. On May 1, 1966, in Gilbertsville, Roger married Ramona Musson, and they moved to North Norwich that same year to make their home. Roger’s skill as a mechanic led him to employment with Smith Ford for 10 years before he became a self-employed mechanic and purchased Watson’s Garage in Earlville, which he operated for another 10 years. After closing the garage, Roger did truck maintenance on a part-time basis for Van Buiten for a short time, and branched out into carpentry, building a garage, three houses for family members, and helping with a friend’s cabin in Canada, from which they enjoyed fishing. With wife Ramona, Roger became involved in crafting. For over 20 years they traveled to several different states to sell their wares, the last show being in the spring of 2009 in Syracuse. Prior to operating the garage in Earlville, Roger was a volunteer firefighter with the North Norwich Fire Dept. He enjoyed watching the NASCAR races, and his greatest joy was spending time with his grandchildren.
Roger is survived by his wife Ramona of North Norwich; by his children and their spouses: Lesa and Mark Babcock of Norwich and Craig and Darcie Pike of North Norwich; by his grandchildren: Cory Pike, Kayla Crandall, and Kendell Pike; and by nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews. He was predeceased by all of his siblings: George and Gerald Pike, Levada McWilliams, Gertrude Banks, and Beatrice Henderson.
Calling hours for Roger will be held at the R.J. Fahy Funeral Home on Wednesday evening from 5 to 7, followed by a memorial service at 7 p.m. The Rev. Jeremy Stopford, pastor of the Earlville Baptist Church, will officiate.
Please consider contributions to Hospice and Palliative Care of Chenango County, 21 Hayes St., Norwich, NY 13815.