Michael E. Stafford, 58, a life time resident of Trout Creek passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, March 6, 2012 at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown.

Michael was born on September 13, 1953 in Walton the son of the late Lindon Dale and Helen (Griffin) Stafford. Michael graduated from Walton High School the Class of 1971. On December 8, 1973 he married the former Patricia R. Ellis in Trout Creek. He was a Self Employed Stone Cutter.

Michael enjoyed guiding hunts in Kentucky, fishing, snowmobiling, wood working, making cedar furniture and most of all he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren more than life itself. He had a great heart and loved his family more than anything. He was world's best husband, father, and grandfather.

Michael is survived by his loving wife, Patricia, his mother in law, Elizabeth Tremper of Masonville; his children, Brad Stafford of Trout Creek; Amy Stafford of Trout Creek; Kristie (Mike) Merwin of Walton; Chad Stafford of Trout Creek; his grandchildren, Chelsee and Caleb Stafford, Holden and Austin Smith, Nathan, Austin, and Kylee Merwin, his brother, Jerry and Donna Stafford of Trout Creek; his sister, Sharon (John) Smith of Walton; his special friends, Scott Polomcean, Gene Higley, Don Caffery, David Donaldson, Billy Banks, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Friends are invited to call on Sunday, March 11, 2012 from 3 to 6 PM at the Courtney Funeral Home, 25 Townsend Street, Walton, where services will be held on Monday afternoon, March 12, 2012 at 2 PM with the Rev. David Gatje, officiating.

Memorial Contributions in Michael's memory may be made to Trout Creek Fire Department, 8695 County Highway 27, Trout Creek, New York 13847 or Trout Creek Community Church, P. O. Box 47, Sidney Center, New York 13839.