Obituary of Roger G. Townsend

Roger Gordon Townsend, 85, of Port Crane, NY, passed away at home on May 10, 2019; He was born on September 26, 1933 in Buffalo, NY. ? Roger was a graduate of Skaneateles high school and Hamilton College. He established Fluid Power Sales, Inc. of Syracuse, NY. in 1968. In retirement he and DeAnne lived the dream and sailed a 53' Bluewater cruiser through the great lakes down the east coast into the southern Bahamas, Returning to Terra Firma, Roger took on the task of building a lovely home in the Binghamton area. Wanderlust struck again, this time touring in a motorhome almost all national parks in the lower 48 returning to the Binghamton area.? Roger loved, sailing, golfing, and refurbishing antique wooden boats. He served on the board of directors of the Skaneateles Country Club and as President of the Antique and Classic boat society of the Finger Lakes chapter. He enjoyed daily walks with his beloved terriers. He played ice hockey and football through college and was an avid fan of all sports. He enjoyed following most sports but ice hockey was his favorite.? Roger took great pride in his heritage. He was a direct descent of the Raynham Hall, Oyster Bay, NY Townsend's who were best known as the "Culpeper spy ring" it was these efforts of the "Washington's Secret Six" that allowed George Washington to prevent the British from taking West Point. The Townsend Iron Works forged a great chain to cross the Hudson and prevented this great loss during the Revolution War.? Roger had a great love of God, family and country. His sense of morality and honesty were displayed in his own principals by which he lived whether in business, sports or daily life.? Roger was predeceased by his parents, Dorothy (Corse) and Samuel Townsend and his brother, Samuel Townsend. Surviving to cherish his memory are his devoted wife of 36 years, DeAnne (Spears) Townsend, Son Mark (Shannon) Townsend, daughters; Robin (Michael) Mogish; Anne Townsend, step children: Michael (Kathy) Ballog, Michelle (Michael) LoPiccolo, Karen (Christopher) Gross. He had sixteen adoring grandchildren, and eight great grandchildren. Also surviving are a brother William (Calina) Townsend, sister-in-law Rosemary Townsend, Nancy (Thomas) Savory, brother-in-law David (Carol) Spears, along with several nieces and nephews.? A celebration of Roger's life will be held at Christ Episcopal Church, in Binghamton, NY on Saturday, June 8th, 2019 visitation will be at 12:00 p.m., followed a Eucharist Mass at 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, Roger requests that donations be made to the Antique and Classic Boat Society at HQS@ACBS.ORG or to a charity of your choice.?