John F. Shaver, 83 a lifelong resident of Walton, passed away early Monday morning, July 21, 2008 at home, surrounded by his family, following a short illness.

John was born in Walton,on July 18, 1925 the son of the late Edmund and Alice (Brown) Jones. He was adopted by Walter and Maude Shaver at the age of 4. He married the former Ruth M. Moody on November 3, 1945 at the Mundale Church.

John resided his entire life in Walton. He attended school in Walton as well. He held several jobs in and around Walton, including Marlett's Garage, Mealus White Castle Furniture Store and the Village of Walton. He was a past member of the Walton Fire Dept. for many years, and a member of the United Presbyterian Church for most of his life. He was a jack of all trades and made a lot of his own gadgets.. He also enjoyed rebuilding and pulling his John Deere tractors at the Delaware County Fair for many years and received the Sportmanship Award in 1987.

John enjoyed watching and feeding the birds, mowing the neighbors' yard, and for many years was the neighborhood handyman. He also spent a lot of time and effort assisting and providing guidance for his 3 children.

John is survived by his loving wife, Ruth, 3 children, Margaret "Peg" Budine, Franklin; Joan (Joe) Frazier, Big Sandy, Tennessee; John H. (Elizabeth) Shaver, Unadilla, 9 grandchildren, Ronald, Robin, James Jr., Todd, Vance, Ty Budine, Tina, Christopher, Jessica Shaver; 12 great grandchildren, sister in laws, Sandra Moody, Delhi; Helen Jones, Walton; several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by a granddaughter, Renee Budine, 4 brothers, 2 sisters, and 1 brother in law.

A Memorial Service will be held at 1 PM on Saturday afternoon, July 26, 2008 at the United Presbyterian Church, Walton. There are no calling hours.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to a church of one's choice or Catskill Area Hospice, 1 Birchwood Drive, Oneonta, NY 13820.