Obituary of Richard Arthur Ayres

Richard Arthur Ayres passed away on Tuesday, February 25, 2014 from injuries suffered in a severe fall. He was 72 years old. Richard was the son of the late Arthur and Eleanor (Nelson) Ayres and was born in the old Goshen Hospital on August 15, 1941. Richard proudly served 4 years in the United States Air Force. He returned to Middletown,NY in 1965 and began a career servicing National Cash Registers (NCR), retiring in 1997. Richard met his wife Cecile Roberts, in 1964 and they were married at Webb-Horton Memorial Presbyterian Church on May 28, 1966. Together they shared many trips through the United States, Canada, British Isles, Germany, Fiji, Australia and New Zealand. In 1979, Richard and Cecile purchased a cabin at Wanaksink Lake. He served on the Planning Board and was a member and past Treasurer of the Sportsman's Club. Richard was an outdoorsman and belonged to several hunting clubs over the years. Currently he was a member and past treasurer of the Silver Fox Hunting Club. Moving to Goshen in 1968 he became a Charter Member of the newly formed Goshen Jaycees. He served in various capacities over the years. Being a leader (and a Leo), he soon became involved in the Goshen Drama Club, serving as treasurer and also set builder. This led to his joining the Goshen Lions Club in 1981. He served as Secretary for many years, President and Zone Chairman. When the club ceased to exist in 1998 Richard joined the Middletown Lions Club and became a Charter Member of the new Goshen Lions Club in 2003. Most important in his life, was his church. Richard grew up in the fellowship of Webb-Horton. Living in Goshen, he joined the First Presbyterian Church and was an Elder and a Deacon and always actively involved in church activities. Richard is survived by his wife Cecile; three sisters, Barbara (Jared) Burnett of Annapolis, MD, MaryAnn (Fred) Wichmann of Monroe, Sandra (David) Brisman of Florida, NY and three brothers, Arthur (Phyllis) of Hillburn, Robert (Janice) of Sloatsburg and Keith (Ellen) of Ringwood, NJ; cousin, Virginia Moore (Jim) of Middletown; five nieces; one nephew; one great nieces; three great nephews and many cousins. He was predeceased by his parents, aunt and uncle, Ruth and Harry Nelson, step-mother, Anna Ayres and his favorite dog, Sebastian. Richard was a very loving and special person, a giver who was always willing and able to assist others. His organs will be donated to give life to others. For those who knew him, he will be deeply missed. He always gave 100 percent in all his endeavors. He loved to cook and try new recipes and put together a wonderful cookbook, given to those that he thought were very special. A Memorial Service will be held 10:00 am on Saturday, March 1 at the First Presbyterian Church in Goshen, 33 Park Pl., Goshen, NYwith the Reverend David Kingsley officiating. A graveside service will be held 10:00 am on Saturday, June 7, 2014 at Hillside Cemetery, Mullberry Street, Middletown, NY. Contributions may be made to the First Presbyterian Church Window Restoration or to the Goshen Lions Club,P.O. Box 142, Goshen, NY10924or to a charity of one's choice. Arrangements are under the care of the Donovan Funeral Home, Inc., Goshen. To leave a personal condolence, please visit www.donovanfunerals.com .