CASTORLAND, NY — Howard A. “Doc” Waite, 71, Castorland, passed away peacefully with his family at his side on Saturday, Oct. 6, 2018.
Howard (also known as Doc) was born Dec. 23, 1946, in Champion, NY, the 16th child of Merritt and Helena Waite.
Doc served in the United States Army from 1966 to 1968, serving in Vietnam as a fuel truck driver. In July 2017 he was very proud and honored to be inducted into the Veterans Hall of Fame by Senator Patty Ritchie.
After serving in the military he returned to the family farm in Champion and he and his brother, Paul operated the family farm for over 60 years. Doc also helped several farmers in the area. He was well respected by the Amish Community, even showing some how to make sauerkraut the way his father showed him!
He is survived by his sisters, Mary Greenwood and Sarah (William) Walsemann, Carthage, Irene Astafan, Florida, Ellen (Jim) Remington, Glenfield, Helen (Joseph) Morisette and Martha (Patrick) McCarthy, Cape Vincent. Brothers Herbert (Jan), Black River, Duane (Ada) & Ernie (Gina), Watertown, John (June), Florida, George (Rochelle), Carthage, Paul & David, Castorland and Jerry (Mike), Georgia. A very special niece, Laura McCallops. Doc had many nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was predeceased by his parents, sisters, Evelyn & Carol, brothers Kenneth and Harold.
Doc fought a courageous battle against cancer. He never complained and he was always patient and kind thru the numerous treatments he endured. He has impacted many lives with his caring and “never give up” attitude. He was patient and kind to everyone who helped him and everyone he met.
He requested to acknowledge the excellent care he received at the Syracuse VA Medical Center, whether it was the Oncology Dept, Dr. Susan Kinnear, Dr. Steve Duffy, the nurses in the Infusion Room, and on the 6th and 7th floor, the numerous technicians, and his final days spent at the VA hospice, he was always treated with respect, kindness and always a smile.
Doc was a member of the Lowville VFW, Carthage Elks Club, DAV, (Disabled American Vets) and a lifelong member of the American Legion.
Calling hours will be held 11 to 1 p.m. Friday, Oct. 12, at Reed and Benoit Funeral Home, State St., Watertown. Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. with Pastor David Frank officiating. Burial will be in Hillside Cemetery, Champion.
Arrangements are with Reed & Benoit Funeral Home, Inc.
Condolences may be made online at www.reedbenoit.com
