He was born on July 29, 1938 in Tompkins, New York, the son of the late Harold and Eloise (Barber) Benedict. On June 19, 1964, he married Carolyn Schaffer in Bainbridge, New York.
Doug was a farmer in the early years of his life. After serving in the United States Army, he began driving a milk truck for Don Hill Dairy in Mt. Upton. From there he continued his career of driving big trucks, making deliveries for Bresee’s Dept Store and then going on to work for the building supply store in Oneonta’s east end, last know as Stock’s Building Supply.
When he wasn’t working, Doug enjoyed hunting and bowling, and also played a little shuffleboard when he had the opportunity. He was a former member of the Moose Club.
Doug is survived by his wife of 49 years, Carolyn Benedict of Oneonta; his children, Lisa Ahne of Oneonta, Christina Herrington, and her husband Jeremy, of Winter Haven, Florida, and Clifford Benedict of Oneonta; his grandchildren, David, Thomas, Daniel, and Jack Seeley III of Oneonta, Austin Benedict of Oneonta, Addalynn, Aundrea, and grandson on the way, Ethan Herrington of Winter Haven, Florida; and one great grandson, Jack L. Seeley of Oneonta.
He is also survived by his sisters, Arlene Bolmer of Old Forge, and Alberta Howard, and her husband Dr. Gary Howard, of Horseheads; his brothers, Milton Benedict, and his wife Betty, of Sherburne, and Allen Benedict, and his wife Joan, of Deansboro; his sisters-in-law, Katricia Tripp of Colliersville, Wanda Marcella of Oneonta, and Lillian Schaffer of Connecticut, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was predeceased by his brothers-in-law, Gerald Schaffer and Raymond Schaffer; and his sister-in-law, Joan Lighthall.
In keeping with Doug’s wishes, there will be no public calling hours or funeral services.
In lieu of flowers, Doug’s family asks that donations please be made in his memory to:
Oneonta Fire Department, 81 Main Street, Oneonta, NY 13820.
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