Sharon Springs -  Richard J. Sawyer, 72, passed away Friday, April 4, 2014 at the Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown.

He was born on March 17, 1942 in Worcester, the son of Raymond and Thelma (Bennett) Sawyer.

Richard was a lifelong area resident who served in the United States Army.

Richard was a butcher all of his life.  He worked for Grand Union and Price Chopper in Cobleskill until his retirement.

He loved his motorcycle, cooking, hunting and fishing.

Richard is survived by his 2 sons, Richard and his wife, Sally Sawyer of Worcester and Paul and his wife, Denise Sawyer of Richmondville; 9 grandchildren, Ashley, Vanessa, Nicole, Victoria, Cassie, William, Melissa, Daniel and Nicholas; 2 brothers, Ben Sawyer and companion, Patty, and Jack Sawyer and his sister, Rose Johnson and companion, Robert.

He was predeceased by his brother, Robert Sawyer; his parents and his companion, Beverly Solano.

A private family burial will take place at the Westford Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in loving memory of Richard to the Animal Shelter of Schoharie Valley, PO Box 40, Howes Cave, NY  12092.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.skinnerfuneralchapel.com .

The E.J. Skinner Co. Funeral Chapel in Worcester is assisting the family.