Austin "Butch" Wormuth, Jr. passed away unexpectedly in his sleep Sunday Dec. 9, 2007, his birthday. He was born Dec. 9, 1953 in Walton and was 54 years old.

Austin was the son of Austin and Margaret (Eberhart) Wormuth. He spent his early years on the family farm in Merrickville, attending Franklin Central School. The family then moved to Unadilla where he graduated from Unatego Central School in 1971. He immediately joined the Carpenter's Union in Oneonta and spent the last 37 years working as a carpenter, pile driver, mason and any other job that was needed. He was looking forward to his retirement and spending time with his children and five grandchildren.

Austin is survived by his mother, Margaret, in Unadilla; his children Allison (Mark) Clark of Delhi, and her three children Mason, Christian, and Haydon; daughter Jenna (Jeremy) Pettit in Walton, their two children Will and Peyton; sisters Debbie (Roger) Harkness in Otego, Lori (Floyd) Balling in Obetz, Ohio; Rebecca Morey in Flatwoods, TN; aunts Rolla Marie (Clifford) Whitbeck, Franklin; Theresa Elliot; Betty Balsdon, Bayside; and an uncle Richard Wormuth (unknown); many cousins; his former wife Linda Belmont and her mother Eleanor Belmont in Walton, and a special friend Sharlene Merwin in Trout Creek.

Butch's generosity and love of his children were of the utmost importance in his life, with his music, friends, and natural healing following closely behind. His knowledge and love of the land will remain in the hearts of all who loved him, as well as his carpentry skills which he taught to many over the years. He was currently helping Allison and Mark build their house in Delhi. His strength and amazing work ethic will live on with us forever.

Arrangements are being made by Clark, Winter, Courtney Funeral Home in Walton, NY. Family will have a private service. There will be a gathering of friends to celebrate his life at the Otego American Legion, cor. Willow & Newland Sts., Otego, Saturday Dec. 15, 2007 at 3 PM. Memorial contributions in Butch's memory may be made to the Native American Heritage Foundation, PO Box 6301, Falls Church, VA 22040