SCHENEVUS – George A. Loft, 67, passed away peacefully with his wife by his side August 23, 2013 at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown, after a lengthy illness.

He was born September 18, 1945 in Oneonta, the son of Dewey and Dorothy (Sperbeck) Loft.

George served his country proudly in the Navy during the Vietnam War. After his discharge, he worked for the D&H Railroad for 30 years as a crane operator.

George married Inge Roth on April 5, 1979 in Tavares County, Florida. They were true life partners; enjoying their time spent together and supporting each other in all their endeavors.

He was a member of the Schenevus VFW and the NYS Maple Producers Association.

George was happiest when he was boiling syrup with friends. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and mowing his fields.

The Loft family wishes to thank all of his friends who have been supportive over the past five years and also to the staff at Bassett Medical Center for their kindness and compassion shown to George during his final days.

He is survived by his wife, Inge Loft; step children, Alan Phillips, Arthur Phillips and April (Phillips) Volk; grandchildren, Neil Volk, Sarah Volk and William Phillips; a great-granddaughter, Yvonne Marie Volk; siblings, Richard and Nancy Loft, Frances and Richard Skinner and David and Sylvia Loft; and several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents.

Calling hours will be 5 to 7 p.m. with a memorial service 7 p.m. on Tuesday, August 27, 2013 at the Heller Funeral Home, Schenevus, with the Rev. Judith A. Thistle, officiating.

Donations may be made to the Schenevus-Maryland Emergency Squad, 205 Valder Rd., Schenevus, NY 12155.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to, www.hellerfuneralhome.com

The Heller Funeral Home, 25 Arch St., Schenevus is assisting the family.