Francis E. Slater

Mr. Francis E. Slater, 65, of Third Avenue, Canajoharie died peacefully on Monday, August 29, 2016 at Bassett Medical Center surrounded by his family. Born on April 4, 1951 he was the son of the late Donald and Juanita Slater. He was a lifelong area resident and a graduate of St. Johnsville High School. He went on to serve proudly with the United States Marine Corp. until his honorable discharge. Francis was a fixture in Western Montgomery County. He worked for Beech- Nut for many years and was a custodian for the Canajoharie Central School District until his retirement. Francis was a longtime member of the Canajoharie Volunteer Fire Department and was a devout member of Our Lady of Hope Roman Catholic Church in Fort Plain. He truly enjoyed helping people and was always available to those in need. Francis volunteered whenever possible, and could always be seen in the area, either behind a hot grill, scooping ice cream, setting up for the Music on Main Street Concerts in Canajoharie or helping with the Fire Department. He was be sadly missed by all who knew and loved him. Survivors include his wife of 42 years, Louisa; three children, Edward Slater, Joseph Slater and Cecilia Slater; his siblings, Harry Slater and Edna Andrews; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his siblings, Bob and Linda. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Saturday, September 3, 2016 at 10 o'clock at Our Lady of Hope Roman Catholic Church, 115 Reid Street, Fort Plain, NY 13339. Burial will take place in St. Peter's & Paul's Cemetery, Canajoharie with military honors. Relatives and friends are invited and may call Friday evening from 4 until 7p.m. at the Lenz & Betz Funeral Home, 69 Otsego Street, Canajoharie, NY 13317. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Our Lady of Hope Church or to the Canajoharie Volunteer Fire Department. Please visit the online memorial at www.brbsfuneral.com