ONEONTA – Richard "Dick" J. Ellegate, 86, passed away Saturday, April 25, 2015 at his home.

He was born October 3, 1928 in Albany, the son of Emmett J. and Clara Ellegate.

He married M. Gail Cassin in Watervliet on May 5, 1956, just shy of 59 years.

Richard was a resident of Oneonta for the past 58 plus years. He worked as a Sales Representative for R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co.

He was a member of the Elks Club, the Masonic Temple and the Jaycees. An ardent reader, Richard had many interests including bowling, golf and baseball, but his passions revolved around history and investing. He formed the "66 Investment Club" of Oneonta, serving as its president. He along with Fred Lewis and Francis Lynch, honored the military by locating unmarked Congressional Medal of Honor recipients in Upstate New York and insuring they were properly recognized and "marked". His proudest passion was ensuring the well-being and happiness of his family.

Dick is survived by his wife, M. Gail Ellegate of Oneonta; daughter, Carolyn Marks and husband, Tom and their son, Kyle of Oneonta; son, John Ellegate and wife, Jeanne and his sons, Robert and Michael, of Grande Island; daughter, Grace Ellegate and her dog, Lily of Auburn; daughter, Leah Lesch and husband, Jason and their sons, Nathan and Aaron of Auburn; daughter-in-law, Julie Rizzo-Ellegate and children, Liana, Jimmy Jr., and Nikki of Middleport; special niece, Nancy Ellegate of Albany along with several other nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his son, James Ellegate in 2008; his brother and wife, Emmett and Frances Ellegate; sister, Alice Flis, all of Delmar and Jerry Miller of Albany.

A private family graveside service at the Fern Dale Cemetery in Gloversville, will be on April 28, 2015.

In lieu of donations please say a prayer, be kind to others, and lend a hand to those in need.

Arrangements are being handled by the Lewis, Hurley & Pietrobono Funeral Home, 51 Dietz St., Oneonta. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to, www.lhpfuneralhome.com