BERNE — Clyde Edward “Ted” Willsey, a lifelong Hilltown resident and a World War II veteran, “was always willing to lend a helping hand,” his family wrote in a tribute. He died quietly on Saturday, June 29, 2019. He was 91.

Ted was born on Feb. 15, 1928 to the late Frank and Millie (née Ball) Willsey. The seventh of nine children, he was raised on the family farm in East Berne. A lifelong Hilltown resident, he attended Berne-Knox before entering the Seabees, the United States Naval Construction Battalion, during World War II.

On returning, he worked part-time as an electrician and plumber, working on many homes, camps, and restaurants on the Hill.

He married Dorothy “Dotty” Lorraine Pitcher in 1951 and together they raised two children. They moved to Florida a time or two, but eventually moved back to Berne for their remaining years. They loved camping in their RV, spending time with their family and friends, playing Pitch, and telling tales.

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Clyde Edward “Ted” Willsey is survived by his brother, Mike Willsey; his companion Denise Eardley; his son Gerald Willsey and his wife, Shirley; his daughter Sally Meduna and her husband, Chip; his grandchildren Chris Willsey and Callie, Deserie Cobb and Leslie, Hillary Meduna, Megan Meduna, Emily Batcher and Max; 10 great-grandchildren; and one great-great grandson.

His wife of 62 years, Dorothy “Dotty” Lorraine Pitcher, died before him, as did his siblings,  Bob, Bill, Floy, David, Dot, Rusty and Chuck.

Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, July 2, from 4 to 7 p..m at Fredendall Funeral Home at 199 Main St. in Altamont. A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, June 3, at 11 a.m. at Woodlawn Cemetery.