ALTAMONT — George Willard Heath, also known as “Poppy,” was a loving father, cherished grandfather, and beloved great-grandfather. He died on Monday, Nov. 18, 2019. He was 77.

Born in 1942, in Albany, he was the son of the late Willard and Frances Heath. After attending Shaker High School, he enlisted in the United States Navy.

He married his wife, Linda, in 1980 and lived in Knox for more than 30 years prior to residing in Altamont. He worked for the Albany County Highway Department for 17 years, retiring in 2003. He was also a long-time member of the American Legion.

“George was an avid hunter, fisherman, and craftsman,” his family wrote in a tribute. “He enjoyed working with wood and designing bird houses, lazy susans, shelves, and more.

“He was also known for his love of late-model cars. Buying old cars, restoring them, and displaying them at multiple car shows brought him much joy for many years, resulting in several winning trophies that he displayed very proudly.”

****

George Willard Heath is survived by his children, Michele Loucks and her husband, Richard, of Knox, Kimberly Klimek of Chattanooga, Tennessee, and Brett Klimek of Ohio; by his grandchildren, Kayla Loucks and Justin Taylor, and Sean Loucks and Amanda Green; and by his great-grandson, Clayton Taylor.

He is also survived by his brother, Allen Heath, of Altamont; by his sister, Beverly Staulters and her husband, Carl, of Galway; and by several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. 

His wife, Linda Heath, died before him as did his son Sean Klimek.

A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 22, at the Fredendall Funeral Home in Altamont, followed by interment with military honors in Schenectady Memorial Park. Friends may call prior to the service from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 Memorial messages may be left at AltamontEnterprise.com/milestones.

Memorial contributions may be made to American Legion Helderberg Post 977, 988 Altamont Blvd., Altamont, NY 12009.