Obituary of Frederick A. Lilley

Frederick Austin Lilley, age 83 of Wilson, passed on Monday June 24, 2013 in the Niagara Hospice House in Lockport, surrounded by his family after a courageous fight with cancer. Fred was born June 20, 1930 in Middlemiss, Ontario, Canada, the son of the late Lorne H. and Viola (Clark) Lilley of Dutton, Ontario. He was the loving husband of Mary June (Ward) Lilley whom he married on June 1, 1957. Fred and Mary June emigrated from St. Thomas, Ontario in 1963 to raise beef cattle for Colbert's Farm in Youngstown. In 1965 and for the next 21 years, Fred was a farmer for Lakeside Farms in Ransomville. When the farm closed, Fred became a truck driver for local companies until his retirement in 1995. He was known for his avid gardening skills. He was a friend to everyone that knew him and always had ready a joke and a story to share. His wife, Mary June, predeceased him on June 6, 2005. He is survived by his children, Nancy Craig (Keith Pierce) of East Amherst, NY, Bonnie (late Stanley, II) Fera of Niagara Falls, NY, Douglas (Alfred Calvet) Lilley of Buffalo, and Donna (Chris) Martin of Wilson; his brothers, Donald, Gordon, and Robert Lilley all of St. Thomas, Ontario, Canada; eight grandchildren, seven great grandchildren; his dear companion, Shirley Drinkwalter of Youngstown; many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. He was predeceased by two brothers, James and Raymond Lilley. Friends may call at HARDISON FUNERAL HOME, 3648 Ransomville Road, Ransomville on Wednesday from 3 - 8 pm. Funeral Services will be held Thursday, June 27, at 11:00 AM in the funeral home, with the Rev. John Woodhouse officiating. Burial will follow in Greenwood Cemetery, Wilson. Flowers are gratefully declined. Please feel free to offer a donation in Fred's memory to the charity of your choice.