Wallace 'Wimpy' Degro

Wallace A. DeGroat, 81, affectionately known as Wimpy to his many friends and family, passed away at his home in Richford, on Sunday afternoon, Oct. 13, 2013. Wimpy is survived by his devoted daughters: Cheryl (John) Hill, Denise Seymour and LuAnn (Hoby) Beebe; his cherished grandchildren: Jackie (Paul) DeFide, Misty (Tony) Miller, Casey (Ryan) Ferrantelli, Kyle Seymour and fianc Christina Perhach, Mark Beebe, Kevin (Crystal) Beebe; his adopted grandchildren Adam Gumaer, Jessica Bisland; his great grandchildren: Delacey, Maegan and Kaliann Wahl, Ethan and Madisyn Ferrantelli, Nathaniel and Kimberleigh Beebe, Brianna Miller. Also surviving are his sisters-in-law, Barbara Hoover, Betty L. Spear, Betty J. Spear and several nieces and nephews.He was predeceased by his loving wife Beverly, cherished son Kevin, son-in-law Keith Seymour, sister Alice (Jake) Goodstal and infant great-granddaughter Kylee. His faithful canine companions Pebbles and Rugby have also been waiting for him to arrive and now their tails are waggin!A US Army Veteran, he served during the Korean Conflict and was a member of VFW Post 1371, Owego and the American Legion Post in Central Square, NY. He was a long-time employee of the former Bliss Mills in Newark Valley and was also employed by AOK Oil Co. Wimpy had a heart that was as big as the great outdoors and enjoyed many get-togethers with friends at the Octagon playing quickdraw and sometimes, even cooking. He was an avid fisherman, very partial to Oneida Lake. At home he loved to be with and cook for his family in the backyard campground. His presence will be greatly missed by his family and many friends. A period of visitation will be held from 10-12 pm at the MacPherson Funeral Home, Newark Valley on Thursday, Oct. 17th. A Memorial Service and Celebration of His Life will follow at 12 noon. Burial will be in Highland Cemetery with full military honors accorded.Memorials may be directed to the Richford Summer Youth Program c/o Becky Randall, 49 Goodrich Hill, Berkshire, NY 13736 or the American Cancer Society in loving memory of Wallace A. DeGroat. Memories and condolences may be written in his guest book at macphersonfh.com