FRANKLIN – Chester E. "Chet" Cleaveland, Jr., 73, passed away Thursday, February 10, 2011 after a brief illness at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown.



He was born August 9, 1937 in Walton, the son of Chester E. and Mary (Seath) Cleaveland.



Just after graduation from Franklin Central School, Chet began work at Amphenol in Sidney, retiring after 43 years of service.



Chet was an accomplished woodworker and landscaper. Especially significant were his clocks and jewelry boxes, gifts to his children and grandchildren. During the spring, summer and fall you could always find Chet outdoors caring for the lawn, gardens and his many water fountains. Chet's favorite time was spent with his family. He had the best time with his grandchildren, making sure that their bowls of ice cream were never empty and their drinks were always full. All the grandkids knew that their grandfather loved them very much and looked forward to seeing him at every chance.



He is survived by his loving wife, Barbara (Youngs) Cleaveland of Franklin; his daughter, Betsy and husband, Dan Sickler of Oneonta and their children, Noelle, Jonathan, Brandon, Catelin, Jillian, Dylan, Megan, Nathan, Morgan and great-grandson, David. His son, Scott and wife, Wendy Cleaveland of Oneonta and their children, Cami and Shelby. His daughter, Christine and husband, Marty Reese of Buffalo and their children, Miranda, Connor and Devin. He is also survived by his sister, Anita and Jim Rowell of Kingston; brothers, Jim and Rose Cleaveland of Franklin, David and Karen Cleaveland of Tivoli; also several nieces and nephews.



There will be a celebration of life at the residence of "Chet" from noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, June 19, 2011. The family will be in attendance.



Online condolences may be sent to, www.lhpfuneralhome.com



Arrangements are under the guidance of the Lewis, Hurley & Pietrobono Funeral Home, 51 Dietz St., Oneonta.