Obituary of Gary A. Hammond

Gary Hammond, 75, of Cortland passed away on October 21, 2016 at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Syracuse NY. He was born in Gloversville NY, the son of the late Alford and Elsie (Kuehnel) Hammond. Gary grew up in Gloversville, where his parents and most of his relatives worked in the glove industry. He graduated from Gloversville High School and received a scholarship to Union College, where he earned a bachelor's degree. He went on to obtain a master's degree from SUNY Albany and later attended Binghamton University. Gary came to Central New York to teach social studies in Deruyter, and also taught sociology courses as an adjunct at SUNY Cortland. He later worked for the Cortland County Department of Social Services for 25 years. Gary is remembered for the wonder, appreciation, and care that marked all of his words and actions. He took great joy over many years walking in Lime Hollow, cheering on the Orange and the hapless Cleveland Indians, playing volleyball and pickleball at the county office building, and later tai chi. He had a special sense of humor that we will never forget. Gary is survived by his daughter Abigail Hammond, his sons Michael (Tami) Hammond and Jacob (Lotte) Hammond, his grandchildren Benjamin, Kati, and Elsie; and his sister Carole (Gary) Lukacik. Calling hours will be held this Tuesday, October 25th from 4-7 pm at Wright-Beard Funeral Home, 9 Lincoln Ave, Cortland NY, 13045. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his name to Lime Hollow Nature Center or a charity of your choice.