Gary E. Tompkins 73, a long time resident of Walton, passed away unexpectedly on Friday morning in Oneonta following a long illness.

Gary was born in the town of Colchester on May 13, 1937 the son of the late Frank E. and Lillian Shaver Tompkins. He was employed for many years at Moringstar, Fraser as a cheese cook. He also worked as a pattern cutter on bluestone. On June 22, 1968 he married the former Helen Bailey in Walton. Helen died on May 23, 1970 as a result of an automobile accident.

Gary enjoyed singing and playing guitar, hunting and was noted as a great fisherman.

Gary is survived by a son, Gary E. (Kelly)Tompkins Jr., a sister, Inajayne Banner, Norwich, a brother, James Tompkins, NYC; several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by a brother in law, William Banner.

A graveside service will be held Saturday, May 14, 2011 at 1PM at the Walton Cemetery, 55 Fancher Avenue, Walton, New York.