Elmer H. Van Arkel

Elmer H. Van Arkel of Endicott, New York (Formerly from Brooktondale, New York) died Monday, March 31, 2025 at the Ideal Assisted Living in Endicott, New York. Elmer was born July 28, 1923 in Cortland, New York. He was the son of the late Henry and Jennie (Carson) Van Arkel. He was one of 9 children. He graduated from Dryden High School and thereafter enlisted in the Army Air Corp. as an aviation mechanic and reached the rank of Staff Sargeant. He served from 1942-1946. Upon his return from service, he married Natalie Hutchins in 1945 and returned to Ithaca, New York. He was a long-time resident of the Hamlet of Varna where he built his own home. He was employed at Cornell University, in the electrical service shop where he retired after over 41 years at the age of 65.

Elmer was a member of the Masons for over 75 Years. He was the Worshipful Master in 1957 of the Dryden Lodge #472.

He was an avid outdoorsman enjoying skeet shooting and was a member of the Tompkins County Fish and Game Club. He also enjoyed hunting and playing golf. After retiring, he enjoyed traveling with his dear friend Beatrice Raponi and they spent many winters in Zephyrhills Florida and summering in Brooktondale, New York. He had traveled to every state in the US except Delaware. In 2023 he moved to Endicott, New York to live with his daughter.

Survivors include his daughters, Bonnie Ewing of Endicott, New York and Barbara Van Arkel-Farsaci (Peter Farsaci), Baldwinsville, New York. He is predeceased by his daughter, Beverly Surine and grandson, Jeffrey Surine. He leaves behind several grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife, Natalie Hutchins VanArkel in 1984 and his longtime companion, Beatrice Raponi in 2024.

Calling hours will be held on April 5, 2025 from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm at Perkins Funeral Home, 55 West Main Street, Dryden, New York with a service to follow at 1:00 pm. Masonic services will be held at 12:45 pm prior to the funeral. Burial, with Military Honors, will follow at Willow Glen Cemetery, Dryden.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Twin Tiers Honor Flight, P.O. Box 1770, Binghamton, New York, 13902. Online condolences at www.perkinsfh.com