Obituary of Gary L. Amidon

Gary L. Amidon, of 4511 Elling Road, passed away Wednesday, May 6, 2015, at his home surrounded by his loving family. Gary was born March 24, 1944 in Coudersport, PA and was a son of the late Charles and Doris Bly Amidon. On Aug. 22, 1970 at the Hinsdale United Methodist church, he married his wife of almost 45 years, Colleen Elling, who survives. Gary served in the Army from April 18, 1968 to Nov. 30, 1969. He then went to work for dresser Rand in Olean for 41 years, retiring in 2006. Gary also worked for the DEC's Green Thumb Program in Olean. He was a member of the Hinsdale United Methodist Church and a lifetime member of the Hinsdale American Legion, where he was a Past Commander and Past 3rd Vice County commander. Gary coached for the high school bowling team and Little League, Babe Ruth League, and Senior Travel League baseball. He was head of the snack shack for Midget Football and Little League Baseball. Gary enjoyed woodworking and helping out the kids and anyone that needed anything, he was willing to do it! He was always putting others first. Gary truly enjoyed being very active with his grandchildren both in sports and academics. Along with his loving wife, Gary is survived by three children, Gary L. (Karen) Amidon, II of Ledyard, CT, Tina L. (David) Lawhead of Bartow, FL, and Brian R. Amidon of Rochester; four grandchildren, Bree, Tyler, Gary III, and Aaliyah; five siblings, Frederick (Marianna) Amidon of Pungo, VA, Linda (Paul) Dieffenwierth of Brandon, FL, Doreen Hiller of Brandon, FL, Bruce (Tammy) Amidon of Auburndale, FL, and Douglas (Michal) Amidon of Lakeland, FL; and several nieces & nephews. Gary was predeceased by a brother, Carl Amidon. Friends will be received in the Letro-McIntosh-Spink Funeral Home, Inc., #646 E. State St., Olean on Friday, May 8, 2015 from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm and on Saturday May 9, 2015 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at, which time Funeral and committal Services will be held. The Rev. Richard "Buck" Young, Pastor of the Hinsdale United Methodist Church, will officiate. Burial will be at the Hinsdale Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, 197 Summer Street, Buffalo, New York 14222. Online condolences may be made by clicking on the button above.