Ronald Chase

On Tuesday, January 3, after a long illness, Ronald Chase peacefully passed from this world. He died at home surrounded by family members.

Born July 4, 1927 in Binghamton, NY, he was the son of the late Ronald and Ruth (Ballard). Ron graduated from Binghamton North High School, and then served his country in the Army, attaining the rank of S/GT in the 4th Cavalry Recon Unit, later known as the 4th Constabulary, policing Austria. After serving as aide to Brig. Gen. L. Haynes, Ron returned

home, completing his service in November of 1947.

Later that month, Ron wed his sweetheart, Dora B. Palmer, his bride and love of his life for 56 years, in sickness and health, until her death parted them in January of 2004. Ron was a consummate caregiver, devoted to her care and well-being, at her side until the end.

Jack-of-all-trades could exemplify Ron Chase. He graduated from Simmons School of Embalming and joined the family business, serving as a funeral director for 20 years. Home building came next and even included design and construction of a funeral home. Studies at Broome Community College led to an 11 year career as a computer field service engineer at NYSE&G from which he retired.

Ron was an avid fisherman, both locally and abroad, especially in South and Central America and Mexico where he traveled with his wife and family. He was fortunate to have many years to pass along his fishing techniques, passion for the hobby, and family lore to his grandsons and great-grandson.

Looking back on his life and accomplishments, what really stands out about Ron, the man, are the traditional values he embodied. He was devoted to his wife and served her sacrificially, provided well for his family while maintaining his integrity in the workplace, and served his country with honor.

He will be dearly missed by his family: children, William (Nancy) Chase of Dryden, NY, Bonnie L. Chase of St. Paul, TX, Jay Chase of Farmington, NY, Brian Chase of Tampa, FL; cherished friend and adopted daughter, Marcia Bernhardt of St. Paul, TX; grandchildren, Susan L. Chase of Dryden, NY, Deborah A. Miller of Cortland, NY, Casey J. Chase and Corey J. Chase, both of Dryden, NY; great-grandson, Joshua Benjamin of Dryden, NY; brother, David Chase of Binghamton, NY and cousin James Chase also of Binghamton.

Funeral services will be held at 12 PM Friday, Jan. 6th, 2006 at Perkins Funeral Home with Rev. Brian Humphreys officiating. Spring burial will be in Green Hills Cemetery. Friends may call from 7 to 9 PM tonight and from 11 AM to service time Friday at the funeral home, 55 West Main St., Dryden . In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospicare, 172 East King Rd., Ithaca, NY 14850.