Walton

Major Robert J. Dutcher (US Army Ret), 71, of Country Meadow Loop, passed Wednesday evening, January 2, 2008 at Bassett Healthcare, Cooperstown.

Robert was born on September 3, 1936 in Walton, he was the son of the late Maxwell E. and Marjorie (Jackson) Dutcher.

He was a Walton Central School Graduate. In 1954 he enlisted in the US Air Force and in 1958 Robert re-enlisted in US Army, where he served until his retirement in 1975, obtaining the rank of Major and receiving several decorations and commendations including a Bronze Star. During his enlistment he attended college and received a teaching certificate. Robert returned to Walton following his military retirement and worked as a General Contractor.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing and what nature had to offer, he also enjoyed animals and children. Bob had a passion for collecting, his collections include model cars and coins.

Robert was predeceased by his first wife, Charlene Mills on August 8, 2002; a grandson, Matthew Gransbury on May 17, 1989; and two sisters, Evelyn Ann and Rhoda Sue.

He is survived by his wife, Betty Dutcher of Walton; children, Laura (Eric) Scherer of Walton, Robert J. (Leslie) Dutcher Jr. of Poolsville, MD and Stephen L. (Lenore) Dutcher of Walton; step-children Frederick M. Haymes and Elizabeth (Clay) Landry both of Pennsylvania and Benjamin M. (Marie) Haymes of Long Island; brother, Maxwell G. (Elinor) Dutcher of Walton; sisters, Jeanette (Gene) Wilson and Mary (Eric) Thoreson both of Kentucky; six grandchildren, Jackie, Megan, Erik, Kevin, Hannah and Stevie; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Friends and relatives are invited to call from 12 to 2 pm on Saturday, January 5, 2008 at the Clark, Winter & Courtney Funeral Home, 25 Townsend St., Walton, where services will follow at 2 pm with the Rev. Larry Light officiating. Burial in Walton Cemetery will take place in the spring.

Memorial contributions may be made to Heart of the Catskills Humane Society, PO Box 88, Delhi, NY 13753