Billy R. Gonser

He was born February 18, 1937 in Oneonta the son of the late Herman L. and Beryl (Wood) Gonser.

A lifelong area resident, Bill graduated from Oneonta High School.

On October 27, 1957, Billy married Dolores Harvey in Oneonta. Together they celebrated 58 years of marriage.

In his younger years, Bill delivered fuel oil for Mountain Oil Co. and also worked for Philips Buick. He then began working as a Blacksmith for the D&H Railroad and retired after 30 years.

Bill loved to travel and go camping with his wife and good friends, Roger and Gloria Carr, "Thank you very much for Everything." When he was at home you could find him out in the garage tinkering on his antique cars. He also enjoyed going to antique car shows. But what brought the most joy to Billy’s life was spending time with his family and especially his grandson, Ryan.

Billy is survived by his loving wife, Dolores Gonser of Oneonta; daughter and son-in-law, Teri and Ed Lynch of Oneonta; son and daughter-in-law, Tom and Lara Gonser of Chatham; grandson, Ryan Lynch of Guilderland; sister-in-law, Doris Tiffany of Oneonta; as well as several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother, John Gonser.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, December 31, 2015 in the Bookhout Funeral Home, 357 Main Street, Oneonta from 11:00 am to 1:00pm. A service to celebrate the life of Billy R. Gonser will immediately follow at 1:00pm with the Rev. Mel Farmer officiating. In lieu of flowers memorial donations in Billy’s memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, Southern New York Region, 13 Beech Street, Johnson City, New York 13790 or to the charity of one’s choice.

To light a candle or send an online condolence please visit www.bookhoutfuneralhome.com

Funeral arrangements are by the Bookhout Funeral Home of Oneonta.