Eric J. “Rick” Eldred Sr., 70, a lifelong resident of Norwich, passed away on Saturday, October 22, 2016 at Chenango Memorial Hospital with family by his side.
Born July 12, 1946, in Norwich, Rick was the son of Frank C. and Bertha (Tucker) Eldred. After graduating from Norwich High School, Rick worked for Victory Markets and before its closing served as its transportation manager. Rick then worked for Chenango Asphalt until his retirement in 2015.
On September 24, 1966, in Norwich, Rick married the love of his life, Linda (Palamaro) Eldred, who survives.
In his free time, Rick very much enjoyed golfing, especially with his long-time golfing partner, Larry. Together they would golf at courses all over Upstate New York. He also enjoyed his annual drive with his father, Frank, to Frank’s home in Florida, where Frank spent the winters. Even after Frank died, Rick continued to drive to Florida to visit his father’s friends and neighbors. Rick also was very fond of his dogs, especially Sampson, who died in 2011, and Jake, who will continue to keep Linda company. He was a die-hard Yankees fan, and watched their baseball games regularly.
In addition to his wife, Rick is survived by the children he loved so dearly, Joanne Blenis, and her husband, Patrick, and Eric Jr. and his wife, Martha, each of Norwich. He is also survived by his sisters, Leona Ciechanowski, of Beaverton, OR, and Beth Friedel, of Sherburne, and by his brother-in-law, Bob Palamaro, of Absecon, NJ. Rick was predeceased by his brother, Frank.
Rick’s family wishes to express sincere appreciation for the kindnesses and care extended by friends Barry and Kathy Christophersen, Larry and Bonnie Rivenburg, Ron Siok, by his friend, neighbor, and nurse, Kathy Brush, and by his physician, Dr. Landry. Also special thanks to “the guys” of Norwich Fire and all of the kind nurses and nursing assistants at both Chenango Memorial and Wilson Hospitals.
To honor Rick’s final wishes, there will no calling hours or funeral services. Burial at Mt. Hope Cemetery will be private.
Contributions in Rick’s memory may be made to St. Bartholomew’s Church Capital Campaign, 73 East Main Street, Norwich, NY 13815.
Funeral services are under the directed of the Wilson Funeral Home.
To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit the funeral home website at: www.wilsonfh.com.