Leon Gofkowski

Leon Gofkowski, 84, of Marathon, NY, passed away on Saturday, October 20, 2012, at the Cortland Regional Medical Center, following an extended illness.

Mr. Gofkowski was born in Willet, NY on September 9, 1928, a son of the late Stanley and Bessie Siorski Gofkowski.   From 1951 until the present, he operated a dairy farm in the Willet area.  He proudly served in the U.S. Merchant Marines from 1945 to 1948 where he received his maritime training at Sheepshead Bay, NY and graduated as a junior engineer.

He is survived by his children, Valerie (George) Kriegbaum of Northwood, NH, Janice (Patrick) Savage of Bronxville, Marline (Roger) Carpenter of LaVernge, TN, Patsy Gofkowski of Chula Vista, CA, Brian Gofkowski of Marathon, Julie Gofkowski of Hallsville, TX, and Michael (Jennifer) Gofkowski of Homer.  He also leaves behind a brother, Edward (Patricia) Gofgosky of Texas Valley; 15 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was predeceased by his wife, Mary Harvey Gofkowski on August 13, 2009; a brother, Edward; and sisters, Mildred Diaz, Stella Landers, and Helen Whitaker.

A graveside service will be held at the Upper Lisle Cemetery on Tuesday, October 23, 2012, at 2:00 p.m.  There will be no prior calling hours or funeral service.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the USO, 2111 Wilson Blvd., Suite 1200, Arlington, VA 22201.