Hanford D. Nichols, 85 of Walton, passed away Tuesday evening, April 5, 2005 at home surrounded by his family.

Hanford was born on the family farm on Freer Hollow on August 5, 1919 the son of the late Harry and Margaret DuMond Nichols, and lived and worked there his entire life. He retired from farming in 1984. Mr. Nichols married the former Helen Titch, June 5, 1945 at the United Presbyterian Parsonage, Walton. He was an avid hunter who enjoyed raising hunting dogs and exotic animals. He often hosted school field trips where swan, peacocks, and other exotic birds were viewed on his farm.

Hanford was a graduate of Walton High School, class of 1938. He was a long time member of the United Presbyterian Church, Walton, the New York State Fish and Wildlife Board, and an Agway commiteeman. Since retirement he enjoyed many years with Del-Chenango Fiddlers. He truly loved his family and neighbors.

He is survived by his wife: Helen, 2 daughters: Susan K. Bright, Walton; Margaret and Bill Zoucha, Albuquerque, New Mexico; two sons: Harry L. Nichols and his friend Ruth Marshall, Delancy, Allen H. and Fran Nichols, Laurens; 11 grandchildren, Kevin and Scott Sanford, Angela Sanford Felter, Daniel Wood Jr., Carleen, Adam , Matthew, and Kristie Nichols, Jody Nichols Nebesnik, Nichole and Whitney Zoucha; 8 great grandchildren; one sister: Elizabeth Conklin of Walton, and a nephew, Jim C. Stevens. He was predeceased by a sister, Letha and a brother William.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects on Friday April 8, 2005 from 5 to 8 PM at the Clark, Winter & Courtney Funeral Home 25 Townsend St. Walton. .

Funeral Services will be held at 1:00 pm on Saturday at the United Presbyterian Church, 58 East St. Walton, with the Rev. Dr. James Martin, and Rev. William Robertson, officiating.

Burial will be in Walton Cemetery. Memorial Contributions in Hanford's memory may be made to Catskill Area Hospice 432 Main St, Oneonta, NY 13820. Envelopes for memorial contributions are available by contacting the funeral home.