Brett Tracy

Brett L. Tracy, age 63 of Brooktondale, NY passed away on Saturday, April 2, surrounded and comforted by his loving family.

Brett was born on June 12, 1958 in Ithaca, NY to the late Nancy Watson and Leo Tracy. Raised in Brooktondale by his mother and stepfather, Merle Sloughter, he was a stubborn, hilarious, hardworking young man. Weary of the responsibilities of helping out at home with wild animals both literal and figurative, Brett escaped to live with his father in the lawless lands of Zephyrhills, Florida when he was a teenager. While there, he engaged in era-appropriate irresponsible behavior until his father volun-told him to join the US Navy.

After an honorable discharge, Brett remained an easy-going, long-haired, mustachioed rebel until meeting and marrying Yvonne Smith in 1984. Together they had two daughters, who were the great loves of his life.

Brett worked at NYSEG, Hickling Power Station for 10 years, and for Cornell University for 20 years, where he made a few friends and ruffled a few feathers. Always quick with a joke or a quip, he found and shared smiles with ease.

A lover of the outdoors, Brett spent many summer days (and nights) surrounded by good friends, great family, cold beer, and excellent barbecue. His laugh was always the loudest, his jokes were always the cheekiest, and he was always the last to call it a night, making sure to tend the fire until it was out.

Brett is survived by his daughters, Melissa Tracy and Emilee Tracy-Arm (Aaron); grandson, Liet Arm; siblings, Sandy Tracy and Shane Sloughter; step-siblings, Jim Sloughter and Donna Kinner; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held at Bangs Funeral Home in Ithaca, New York on Saturday, April 9 from 1-3 PM with a service to follow at 3 PM.

Per Brett's wishes, in lieu of flowers, please drink a beer and toast to his memory. Preferably while listening to Willie Nelson