Ronald V. Updike

Ronald Vance Updike, 71, died April 1, 2016 at his home. Born and raised in Trumansburg, N.Y., son of Vance and Mildred Updike, he graduated from Trumansburg High School in 1962 and went on to receive a Bachelor's of Science Degree from the University of Georgia. Ron worked for 23 years at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University and spent another 10 years as the Enfield Highway Superintendent.
Ron was a proud member of the Grand Lodge Free and Accepted Masons of the State of New York, Trumansburg Lodge No. 157 for 24 years and held the position of Master for one term. He was an active member of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of State of New York, Fidelity Chapter No. 77. He served for 26 years as the Chairman of the Board for the Tompkins County Soil and Water Conservation District of New York State and was an active member of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
His dedication to the community could only be surpassed by his love for his wife and family. At home, Ron was an amazing husband to his love, Maureen and an exemplary father for his four daughters. His life centered on spending time with his family, never missing a game, concert, play or ceremony. He cherished summers spent with his family and friends at the cottage and counted down the days to each holiday when the family gathered at the Farm. With deep roots in farming and love of the land, Ron spent endless hours working the fields, gardening, hunting, and fishing, all of which brought ample smiles and joy to his life. His smile and familiar presence was a comfort to those who were fortunate to know him.
Ronald will be eternally missed by his beloved wife of 46 years, Maureen (O'Grady) Updike; adoring daughters Sarah (Updike) Smith, Michelle (Updike) McCreless, Rebecca (Updike) Weissman and Kristin (Updike) Pronko; admiring sons-in-law Rodney Smith, Charles McCreless, and Steven Pronko; loving grandchildren Trevor Smith, Madison Smith and Jacob McCreless; fond sister Dawn Dean; and numerous extended family. Ron was pre-deceased by his son-in-law Joshua Weissman.
A viewing will be held at Bangs Funeral Home April 5 from 4-7pm. Funeral services will take place at St. James Catholic Church in Trumansburg April 6 at 11am with a celebration of life to follow at Highland Lodge Center on Indian Fort Road in Trumansburg.
In lieu of flowers please send donations to the Foundation for Thymic Cancer Research in memory of Ronald Updike. www.thymic.org or send a check to Foundation for the Thymic Cancer Research, 13634 Cambria Bay Lane, Delray Beach, Florida, 33446.
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Tuesday, April 05, 2016 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Bangs Funeral Home, Inc. 209 W Green St. Ithaca, New York 14850

Wednesday, April 06, 2016 11:00 AM

St. James Catholic Church 17 Whig Street Trumansburgh, New York14886