Richard R. Metcalf

Richard Rich Randolph Metcalf, 80, of Camillus, departed to his most secret of trout streams on Thursday evening, September 22, 2005, surrounded by his loving daughters and two of his grandchildren. Born in Burlington, Vermont to the late Cyrus Metcalf and Josephine Stimets, he spent his youth growing up in Vermont before moving to Binghamton and finally settling in Syracuse in 1970. Rich graduated from Middlebury High School, Class of 1943. He then served three years in the U.S. Army, partly in the European Theatre during World War II. Following his military service, he earned a bachelor's and master's degree in organic chemistry from Middlebury College. His professional career included pharmaceutical research chemist, water and wastewater laboratory director in Binghamton, field chemist for New York State Department of Health and finally 18 years as training officer for Onondaga County Department of Water Environment Protection, directing the training and safety programs. Rich belonged to the New York State Water Pollution Control Association, chairing several standing committees. He was a recipient of the Milton T. Hill Award for the Advancement of Waste Water Personnel in 1982. He also belonged to the National Environmental Training Association (NETA) serving as director for six years. In 1987, he was named National Trainer of the Year. Rich chaired and co-chaired the public employer section of Onondaga County United Way Campaign for three years in the 1970's. He also chaired the Department's Red Cross blood drive for several years. Rich was a member of Tabernacle Church in Binghamton. He served on their official board and taught math to handicapped children for three years. He was an active mason for over 50 years, holding such offices as Commander, High Priest and finally Worshipful Master of William S. Farmer Lodge in Solvay during their 50th anniversary year from 1981-1982. Rich will best be remembered as an avid trout fisherman, collector of antique fishing equipment, and for his playful teasing and sense of humor. He was predeceased by his wife of 48 years, Rosemarie H. Metcalf, in 1999 and his son, Bruce A. Metcalf, in 1961. Surviving are his daughters, Emily J. Metcalf (James Oshinsky) of Baldwin, Janet I. Metcalf of Syracuse; three grandchildren, Justin R.P. Metcalf of Buffalo, Breanna and Kira Metcalf-Oshinsky of Baldwin; also his furry faithful dog, Sneakers. Services were at the Buranich Funeral Home, 5431 W. Genesee St., Camillus, with Rev. Craig French officiating. Friends called at the funeral home. Burial will be in Pleasantview Cemetery in Randolph, Vermont. at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to W.A.V.E.S., 202 Bennett Rd., Camillus, NY 13031 or to Dogs for the Deaf, Inc., 10175 Wheeler Rd., Central Point, OR 97502.