Kenneth James, Gartland Jr., "Uncle Skip" 83 of Walton, known to his family as Uncle Skip passed away after a short illness on Monday, August 21, 2023 at Delhi Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Delhi NY.

Ken was born on July 18, 1940 in Johnson City, NY the son of the late Kenneth and Gladys (Dutton) Gartland. He grew up in Walton NY and when he was 14 years old he left and went on the road with Reithoffer Shows. When he was 18 years old he was drafted into the United States Army. He served two tours in Vietnam as a Combat Medic. After he was Honorably Discharged from the Army he continued his career with Reithoffer Shows as a Procurement Officer, traveling with them everywhere they traveled. His favorite place to always go to was back home when they played the Delaware County Fair in Walton NY. A highlight for him was seeing his family and taking his Nieces and Nephews and Great Nieces and Nephews around the carnival and letting them pick out whatever they wanted and ride the rides. Ken was one of Reithoffers longest employees working for them for 59 years.

In 2021 he moved back home to Walton to be with family. The first thing that had to be done upon arriving home was making sure to get pay-per-view that weekend so he didn't miss the wrestling. He was an avid fan of WWE and never missed it.

Ken is survived by his brother, Richard Gartland (Helen)of White Sulphur Springs NY. Nieces and Nephews, Kevin and Beth O'Brien of Walton, Debby O'Brien of Walton,Vicki OBrien of Walton, Michael(Karla) O'Brien of Florida, John Gartland of White Sulphur Springs, James (Laura)Gartland Of White Sulphur Springs, and many Great and Great Great Nieces and Nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, his Sister Jean O'Brien and Sister-in-law Virginia Gartland.

The family would like to thank the Reithoffer Family for being such an important part of his life both on and off the road. They were truly Family and their love and care was immeasurable.

The family would like to also thank Mary Ragone and Brett Trombley of Walton for helping in the care of Ken (Uncle Skip) over the past two years and the staff at Delaware Valley Hospital, Binghamton General Hospital, Wilson Hospital and Delhi Rehabilitation and Nursing Center for their care and guidance during his time over the past month.

A big heartfelt thanks to Courtney funeral home for their kindness, comfort, and caring gestures during this time.

A private burial with Military Honors will be held at Tioga Cemetery Tioga New York where he will be laid to rest.

The family is in the care of Courtney funeral home.