Russell G. Pfendler Sr.

Russell was born in Boonville, NY on May 18, 1942 to Arthur “Fritz” Pfendler and Clara Clark Pfendler at their homestead. He was #3 of 10 children. He graduated from Forestport Central in 1960.

On February 2, 1964 Russell was married to Janice LaQuay and they had 3 children, Russell Jr., Dawn and Craig.

Russell made a career of driving semi trailers and dump trucks with UPS, General Cable, Consolidated Freightways, Baille Lumber, CCI, NFI, and lastly for Poland Sand & Gravel.

Russell enjoyed spending time with the children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, On occasion the children would take short trips in the semi trucks with dad and the grandchildren to Florida when they were all younger. In earlier years, many, many camping and traveling trips were taken as a family. For years he enjoyed an annual fishing trip with his brothers to Black Lake. For over 55+ years you could find Russ and Janice on the dance floor at local dances in the area doing the jitterbug with others in awe of their flawless style. You could also find them evenings parked at Walgreens or Tops drinking coffee just simply watching traffic. He was also a member of the Sons of the American Legion.

Russell is survived by his wife Janice, a union of 61 years; a daughter, Dawn, and 2 sons, Russell Jr., and Craig;  1 grandson; 3 granddaughters; 3 great grandsons and 2 great granddaughters.

Also surviving are siblings, Linda Wagner, Jerry Pfendler and, Nila Gerling; brothers-in-law, David LaQuay and Harold “Smokey” Schmelzle; sister-in-law, Diane Pfendler and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Russell was predeceased by his parents, Fritz and Clara; sister, Sylvia Schmelzle; brothers, Richard, Scott, and Dale, as well as 2 siblings at birth; brothers-in-law, Gordon Wagner, Cliff Gerling, William LaQuay, and Charles LaQuay; sister-in-law, Helen Pfendler; and great grandson, Jay Russell Pfendler at birth.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude for care provided by Hospice and Palliative Care and the frequent assistance by the Boonville Ambulance crew.

In honoring Russell’s wishes, there will be no services or calling hours. The family is planning a memorial celebration later in May and will announce when the plans are finalized.

Arrangements are in the care of Mills Funeral Home, Boonville, NY. For an online message of sympathy please go to www.millsfuneralhomes.com.

To send cards or flowers to the family, they may be sent to 109 Schuyler St., Apt. 1, Boonville, NY 13309.