Ernest Sielaff JR.

Richmondville- Ernest Paul Sielaff Jr., 86, passed away at home with his loved ones at his side on Saturday, October 27, 2018.

He was born December 11, 1931 the son of Ernest and Anna (Himme) Sielaff Sr. in Hempstead, New York.

He married his loving wife Carol (Waite) in 1953. Ernest enlisted in the Army to serve his country in 1954 at the age of 23 and served honorably until he was discharged in 1956.

Later in life, he moved to Richmondville in 1969 and began his employment for Verizon as a cable splicer. He worked there for 37 years then retired in 1993. Ernest was also a member of the Richmondville Volunteer Fire Department. He joined them in 1970 where served as the fire chief from 1980-1982, as well as being the assistant chief, president, and vice president, and was awarded as Fireman Of The Year twice in 1990 and 2007.

His parents and infant daughter, Deborah Louise Sielaff, predeceased Ernest.

Ernest is survived by his wife, Carole (Waite) Sielaff of 65 years; two sons: John (Tammy-Jo) of Cobleskill, and Peter (Darla) of Trumansburg; daughter, Lenore Sossei (Robert); five grandchildren: Joshua (Amy), Courtney (Rick) Murphy, Kyle, Andrea (Ryan), McKayla (Stephen): and one great-grandson, Cole Murphy.

Visitation will be held at Mereness-Putnam Funeral Home, 171 Elm Street, Cobleskill on Saturday, November 3, 2018 from 9-10:45 when a Fireman’s Prayer Service will be held. Celebration of life will be held at 11 A.M. with military honors following.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Richmondville Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 481, Richmondville, New York 12149 as well as the Richmondville Emergency Volunteer Ambulance Core, P.O. Box 11, Richmondville, New York 12149.