Bernard (Bernie) G. Gagen, 79, of Walton, passed away on Sunday evening, December 19, 2010 at his home following a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Bernie was born on April 9, 1931 in Greenport, Long Island. He was the son of the late Charles and Anne Dunnigan Gagen.

Bernie was a graduate of Southhold High School, Long Island. Following his graduation he was employed with G.L.F. that later became Agway. Bernie then served his country during the Korean War in the US Army, obtaining the rank of Sergeant. Following his military service he married the former Betty J. Gaffga on July 10, 1954 in Greenport, Long Island and returned to work with G.L.F./Agway and settled in Sherrill, where he and Betty began to raise their family. Bernie and Betty then relocated to Walton in 1981 where Bernie later retired in 1992 after serving as a General Manager and a Salesman for G.L.F./Agway after 42 years.

Bernie was a member of St. John the Baptist Church in Walton and a former member of St. Helena's Church, Sherrill. Bernie was also a member of the Knights of Columbus, Council #473 in Oneida, as a 4th degree member and Grand Knight.

Bernie was very active in his community as a member of the Sherrill Community Chest, the American Legion, Club Royal Oasis in Walton. He also was an enthusiast in local athletic organizations. Bernie was a coach and supporter of Little League and American Legion Baseball, and he was a founding supporter of the Sherrill Pop Warner Football League. Bernie was often found cheering on the local high school athletic teams. Bernie was also an avid golfer (with two hole in ones), organizing the Men's Association at the Delhi College Golf Course.

Bernie is survived by his dear wife of 56 years, Betty. He is also survived by three sons; Larry, his wife Carol, of Baltimore, MD; Mark Gagen of Franklin, VA; Jay and his wife, Tami of Sherrill; four grandchildren; Leslie, Danielle, Dustin and Christina; great-grandchildren; Ciara and Cameron. He is also survived by his brother John (Jack) Gagen his wife, Barbara of California; loving sister Patricia and her husband Walter Cain of Waverly; and his sister-in-law, Lucy Gagen of Maryland. Bernie was also predeceased by his two brothers; Charles (Chuck) and Lawrence (Larry) Gagen. Bernie was blessed with several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Loving appreciation to Dominic and Marie Millazo (neighbors) and "Bernie's Angel on Earth" – Vicki Newkerk.

Friends are invited to call on the family on Thursday, December 23, 2010 from 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm at the Courtney Funeral Home, 25 Townsend Street, Walton and from 2-4 pm and 6-8pm on Monday, December 27, 2010 at the Malecki Funeral Home, 464 Sherrill Rd., Sherrill. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, December 28, 2010 at St. Helena's Church, 210 Primo Ave, Sherrill, New York with the Rev. Mesmer, celebrant. Burial will take place in the spring at St. Helena's Cemetery, Oneida. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Catskill Area Hospice and Pallative Care, Inc. 542 Main Street, Oneonta, NY 13820 or www.cahpc.org.