Gerhard Klee, 84, of Walton, a resident since 1959, passed away at home on January 26, 2015.

Gary was born on August 25, 1930 in Canarsie, NY of immigrant parents and was one of five siblings… a sister Renate of Edmeston, NY and Gottfried, Traute and Rosemarie who predeceased him. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Jeanie, son Gary and partner Jean Ann, and beloved granddaughters Schuyler and Danica.

Gary graduated from Brooklyn Technical High School. He started work as a machine shop operator, then on a farm in Kingston, NY. He then went into the Coast Guard for three years as an aviation mechanic. His love of the outdoors led him to an Agricultural Degree from Cornell University. Gary then became a Soil Conservationist that led him to stops in Binghamton, Walton, Glens Falls and Canton, NY. He retired in 1988 and returned to Walton.

He also became an avid hiker and member of the Catskill 3500 Club (becoming the 29th member), Adirondack 46'ers and Finger Lakes Trail Conference. Gary also hiked into the Grand Canyon in Arizona… twice. He had been active in the Plymouth Church, and was also involved for years with the Delaware County Fair. Other hobbies included gardening and classical music.

There will be no calling hours. Any contributions may be made to Delaware Valley Hospital, 1 Titus Place, Walton, New York 13856.