Obituary of Ronald F. Hodge

Mr. Ronald Francis Hodge, 85, of West Ames Road, Canajoharie, New York passed away peacefully Saturday, April 11, 2020. Born October 16, 1934 in Fort Plain, NY he was the son of Fay Hodge and Nellie Whyland Hodge. He was a graduate of Canajoharie High School, Class of 1953 and a lifelong resident of Ames, NY. He was of Methodist faith. Mr. Hodge was owner and operator of his family’s dairy farm, Bramble Lane Farm, in Ames, NY. Noted for his dedication and respect for his livestock and his land he was a successful farmer his entire life. Even after discontinuing his dairy practice in 1992 he continued to “make hay” for another 26 years. Over the years many young men worked summers at the farm. Several came back year after year to “enjoy” the hard work in field and mow, and the guidance and company of Ron Hodge, even when they themselves were no longer young. He was also a member volunteer fireman of the Ames Volunteer Fire Department honored for 55 years loyal service. That’s a lot of pancake breakfasts! Ron was full of devilish joy and loved life, always trying to bring that out in others. His laughter was contagious, and hearty enough to fill the room. And a smile and a wink from Ron Hodge could make your day. He especially enjoyed the simple comradery of good friends and socializing with his children and family, especially the “little ones”. Throughout the years he had many hobbies: bowling, deer hunting, snowmobiling, playing cards and golfing. Having taken up golf rather late in life he nevertheless envisioned himself a “great” golfer. He especially enjoyed the 19th hole at the Canajoharie Country Club, and if not there you could always find him at the Ames Corner Store holding court. A genuine and giving man, the community recognized him as a helper; always quick to lend a hand, plow a driveway, loan equipment or make a donation. His charity and generosity will not be forgotten. In addition to his parents he was also predeceased by his only sibling, Robert Hodge. Mr. Hodge is survived by his former wife, Donna J. Hodge and their children, Diane Hodge (Jim Gerardi), David Hodge (Sherri), Rebecca Cardinale (Stephen); four grandchildren, Bryce Belvin, Lauren Lathers (Dan Lentini), Joshua Hodge (Lindsey), Ryan Hodge (Kendal Robbins) and step granddaughter Jennifer Gerardi DeBerardinis (Richard); four great-grandchildren, Romey Hodge, Adrien Lentini, Corinne and Hattie DeBerardinis; and he was the favorite ”Uncle Ronnie” to many nieces and nephews. He was immensely loved and will be missed by all. The family wishes to extend its gratitude to Amy Bowerman for the love, patience and nursing care she provided Ron for the last eighteen years, and to Julie Montayne, Judy and Albert Rivenburgh, and Gary for everything. In addition we are grateful to the Bassett Little Falls Hospital and Physical Therapy Department who kept him healthy and strong, always engaging him with hope and humor, to Bassett Medical Center of Canajoharie and staff who went above and beyond to care for him, and to the caregivers and staff of Home Helpers, Amsterdam NY. A public graveside service will be held Saturday, June 6, 2020 at 11:00AM at Ames Cemetery. Arrangements are entrusted to Houghtaling & Smith Funeral Home, Inc., 20 Otsego Street, Canajoharie, NY 13317. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in memory of Mr. Ronald F. Hodge to the Ames Volunteer Fire Department, 595 Latimer Hill Road, Ames, NY 13317. Please sign the online guestbook for Mr. Hodge at www.houghtalingandsmith.com