Herbert L. Sylvester

Herbert L. Sylvesterformerly of Newark ValleyHerbert L. Sylvester, 93, of Binghamton, passed peacefully on February 23, 2009 following a period of declining health. Herb is survived by his devoted daughter and son-in-law, Natalie and Art Hilliard; three grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and a nephew. He was born on April 25, 1915 in Elmira Heights, N.Y., and was predeceased by his parents, Lucy (Rose) Sylvester and Io VanKurin; and his loving wife of 68 years, Josephine (Clair) Sylvester. He was a veteran of WW II serving in the U.S. Navy and in his early years was an employee of GLF in Newark Valley. In 1949 he and Josephine established, built and operated the Newark Valley Bowling Center until their "retirement" in 1966. During those years he was also a school bus driver for the Newark Valley Central School system, assisted Neil MacPherson at the funeral home and was actively involved in sports. He umpired basketball, football and baseball games and also enjoyed participating in games. Herb and Josephine also resided in So. Waverly, Pa. where he was employed by the Strohman Bakery Co. Friends are invited to a period of visitation at the MacPherson Funeral Home, Newark Valley on Friday, February 27th, from 12 noon until 1 p.m. Graveside services will follow at the Rural Home Cemetery, Big Flats, N.Y. at 2 p.m. Expressions of sympathy in Herb's memory may be directed to the Northern Tioga Youth League, PO Box 575, Newark Valley, N.Y. 13811.