Obituary of Russell A. Fancher
Russell Allen Fancher (December 1, 1938-July 13, 2018) of Katonah, New York was born to Albert R. Fancher and Hazel Mclaughlin Fancher of Bedford, NY. Russell’s older sister, Bea, predeceased him in 2013. Linda (Leonard Wallace) his younger sister resides in upstate NY.
Russell leaves to honor his memory: His beloved wife Jean; devoted daughters: Christine (Dan Ducibella), Alison (Edward Sahm), Jolee (Donovan Kerr); Adoring Grandchildren Kiya and Shawn Sahm, Molly Kerr; Nephews Christopher, Norman, Tom and Richard; and numerous friends.
Russell is a graduate of Fox Lane High School. He worked as a carpenter for O’Brien and Kinkel. He married Jean Elizabeth Schroeder, the love of his life on August 12, 1961. He was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1962. With orders to report to Ft. Wainwright, Alaska. In route to Alaska, his plane was forced to ditch in the ocean near Sitka. After his wife graduated from nursing school in 1963, Russell returned to Bedford. Together they drove from NY to Fairbanks Alaska to start the next chapter of their lives. In April of 1964, Russell was honorably discharged. While they continued to live in Alaska he worked for the Bureau of Indian Affairs, updating the school buildings.
Due to lack of employment opportunities, Russell and Jean returned home to Westchester County NY. Where they have maintained lifelong residency. On August 12, 1965 Christine Elizabeth was born. Alison Joy followed nine years later on February 9, 1974.
Russell was truly a jack-of-all-trades. A carpenter, gardener, lover of all animals, especially horses which led him to work on a private horse farm for many years. Where Russell truly excelled was in his role as husband, father, “Papa”, uncle and friend. How he loved his family! In truth Russell was warm hearted and generous but it wasn’t always perceived that way. His signature reply “It’s not necessary” was his answer to most suggestions. Those familiar words will always bring a smile to those who knew and loved him.
A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, July 18th at 11am at the Bedford Union Cemetery on Clinton Road. Memorial contributions may be made to the Pegasus Therapeutic Riding Program.
