George E. Rote

George E. Rote, 93, of Baldwinsville, passed away peacefully at home with family on September 5, 2024.

He was born May 27, 1931, in Summerhill on the family farm, a son of the late Arthur and Sarah (Hatfield) Rote. A graduate of Groton High School, he pursued different occupations after he left farming, including owning an ice cream stand in Ithaca, NY.

George retired after 28 years as a driver for Greyhound with the Million Miles Award. If there was an award for a million friends, he would have been given that as well. He was neighborly and knowledgeable and was appreciated for his sense of humor and giving a helping hand. He liked meeting people and being involved in activities, clubs, and groups including currently holding a board member seat with his community association in Ocala, Florida. His hobbies included golfing, woodworking and carpentry, at one time handcrafting his own classic wooden boat. During his many years at Big Moose Lake he renovated his summer camp, established a fall hunting club and enjoyed snowmobiling.

He is survived by his wife, Dorothy (Kohlmeier) Rote, of Baldwinsville; his daughters: Shelly Worthington (Frank), of Tucson, Linda Neubauer (Steve Andrews), of Fairport, and Donna Herlihy (Kevin) of Fabius; grandchildren: Miranda Worthington, Moss Worthington, Ben Neubauer, Teddy Neubauer and Emily Brown; two great-grandchildren, Henry Brown and Jolee Brown; sister-in-law, Jerri Rote, of Homer; and several nieces and nephews.

He is also survived by Dorothy’s family, including her daughters Sharon Barry (Jack), of Kent, NY and Janet Whitney, of Palm Coast, Fl.

In addition to his parents, George was predeceased by his first wife, Patricia (Heffron) Rote in 1987; brothers, Edward and Carl Rote; and a sister, Esther McDermott.

Private graveside services will be held in St. Anthony's Cemetery, Groton. There are no calling hours. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Shurtleff Funeral Home, and condolences may be shared at www.shurtleffservices.com . 

In lieu of flowers, contributions to a charity of your choice are welcomed.