Obituary of Richard James Wiggins

Wolcott: Richard “Dick” Wiggins, 88, of Butler Center Road Wolcott, passed away Friday November 13, 2020. He had been a resident of the Wayne County Nursing Home since March 18, 2020.

Dick was born in the Town of Elba, New York, moving to Butler Center with his family when he was a child. He and his father farmed the land at their home on Washburn Road in Butler Center. Dick married Dorothy Lefavor on June 29, 1957 in Westbury NY.  After living in a couple of different places, Dick and Dorothy built their family home on Butler Center Road, raising their three children there.

Dick had several different jobs throughout his life-working for Culligan and driving bus for Red Creek and then North Rose-Wolcott- but his first love was farming.  He raised beef cattle-he could often be found out in the pasture after supper, scratching ears and talking to the cattle-the entire herd gathered round!  He also raised corn, wheat and hay. 

Dick was not one to sit around.  He would work at his day job and then come home to work on the farm nights and weekends. He was a good friend to his neighbors; stopping in to check on elderly neighbors, making the rounds to plow snow or spending hours “getting the milk” at the nearby country store. 

Dick had a great interest in history.  He gave his time to the Butler Historical Society and helped with the Butler Center Church and the Roe Cobblestone Schoolhouse.  He was extremely interested in the Civil War and the World War II Era. 

Dick will be remembered for his quick wit and sense of humor.  He was always ready with a pun or a one liner!

Dick is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Dorothy, his three children, Rick, Robin (Tim) Deleel and Marc (Janice).  He is also survived by 8 grandchildren, two great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins. 

There will be no calling hours or service at this time.  A celebration of life will be held at a time when we can gather together, safely, to remember Dick.  Donations in Dick’s name can be made to the Butler Historical Society Box 34 South Butler, New York. Condolences may be expressed at www.HSNORTON.com.