Francis Earl Balcom, 80
Francis Earl Balcom, longtime resident of Pennellville, died Friday evening, August 29, 2008.
He was born to Ella and Van Balcom on August 14, 1928, at their farm in Pulaski. Francis grew up with the basics of farming, hunting, fishing and learning the value of a dollar, being a family where he was the oldest of six boys. He met his wife of 58 years, the former Virginia Nelson, and began working in the Pennellville area delivering milk for the Dunham family farm, then Candee’s Dairy. Later he went to work for Borden’s Ice Cream and stayed with them for 38 years, until his retirement in 1996.
Francis was an active member of the Pennellville VFD for many years, including being a past assistant chief and fire chief. He was also a member of the Oswego County Firemen’s Association, serving as secretary, vice president and president, as well as a member of the Oswego County Chiefs Association. He was a past scoutmaster for Boy Scout Troop 37, Pennellville, and also served as town councilman for 18 years on the town of Schroeppel board. In addition, he was always active with carpentry, gardening, hunting and fishing. He established and ran the Double “B” Sport Shop for many years.
He was predeceased by his brothers, Lenard and Alton, former Pulaski residents, and his grandson, Scott Morison.
Surviving are his wife of 58 years, Virginia; son Gordon W. of Parish; daughters Linda L. Lyons of Oswego and Sherri A. Jackman and husband Paul of Cicero; son Alan F. Balcom and his partner, Robert Weiner of LaFayette; brothers John and Ellie of Sterling, Earl and Bertha of Ohio, and David and Donna of Pulaski; sister-in-law, Peggy of Pulaski; grandchildren, Ryan J. Lyons, Lori L. Lyons, Nate and WesleyAnn Balcom, Jessica L. Lyons, Rebecca Balcom, and Robert and Mandy Morison; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Services are 11 a.m. Thursday, September 4, at Allanson-Glanville-Tappan Funeral Home, Phoenix, NY, with the Rev. Lauri J. Craig officiating. Burial: Pennellville Cemetery, Schroeppel. Calling hours are 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home, 431 Main St.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to First Congregational, UCC General Fund at 43 Bridge St., Phoenix, NY 13135 or Pennellville VFD, 3 Godfrey Rd., Pennellville, NY 13132.
