Jeff was born on June 23, 1949 in Bradford, Pennsylvania. He is predeceased by his parents, Donald and Marjorie Carlson and his brother, Terry.
Survivors include his loving wife of almost 48 years, Janet (Hale), his daughter Katie (Nathan) Munger, 3 grandsons, Jacob, Gabriel and Isaac of Georgia. He is also survived by his cousin Carolyn (David) Wickman of Rochester, brothers- in- laws Larry (Sandi) Hale, Jeff Hale, Kevin (Diana) Hale, all of Batavia and sisters-in-laws Cindy (Terry, predeceased) of Virginia, Linda Hale, Diane Hale (Dennis) all of Batavia, and Sheila (David) Lukacko of Chili. He is also is survived by many nieces, nephews and dear friends.
Jeff was a veteran of the US Army, having served in the Infantry Division. He was stationed in Germany where his duties were that of a paratrooper. He was a member of the St. Nicks Club and Godfreys Pond. He was once an avid outdoorsman, enjoying hunting, fishing, trapping and archery but his true passion and love was his family and friends. He thoroughly enjoyed his Harley Davidson Heritage Soft Tail Motorcycle and his 1994 Chevy pick-up truck. Jeff previously worked at BAE Systems in New Hampshire prior to his retirement.
When Jeff talked of yesteryears past, he could mesmerize you with stories of his life. His antics could bring a person to tears by laughing with him and sometimes at him. He truly was one of a kind and will be greatly missed by all of us who knew and loved him.
I wish to extend a very special “Thank You” to my sister Linda who transported Jeff between Strong, Highland and the Veterans Hospitals for many years, all the countless errands, companionship, guidance and prayers she so generously gave of herself. I also “Thank” my sister Diane and Dennis for all their concern, support and acts of kindness and strength which allowed me to be at home with Jeff and to my sister Sheila and David, “Thank You” for your continuous prayers, rosaries, support and compassion.
To our good friends and neighbors, John and Tara Weidman and Family, a very heartfelt “Thank You” for all that you have done for us since moving here and for all that you continue to do for us especially during this most difficult time. To members of the community of East Bethany, a tremendous amount of “Thanks” for everything that was extended to us.
I am very much indebted to the Town of Bethany Volunteer Fire Department for their compassion, sympathy and visits to our home.
There will be no prior calling hours. Services will be private and at the convenience of the family. Jeff will be laid to rest with full military honors in the Western New York National Cemetery in Pembroke.
Memorials may be made to the Town of Bethany Volunteer Fire Department, 10510 Bethany Center Road, East Bethany, NY 14054 or Homecare & Hospice, 29 Liberty Street, Batavia NY 14020.
ARRANGEMENTS WERE ENTRUSTED TO THE J. LEONARD McANDREW FUNERAL HOME, LLC, 2 BOGUE AVE., BATAVIA, NY 14020. RONALD KONIECZNY II, DIRECTOR.
