Lewis C. Rice

A resident of Ellington his entire life, being born at home on May 4, 1930, the son of Kloid and Frankie (Johnson) Rice.

Lew was a dedicated farmer, taking over the family dairy farm, which is still in operation today. He was also a dedicated conservationist and a lifetime sugar maker since 1945, Rice’s Brookside Maple Grove. In earlier years, he enjoyed roller skating at Midway Park, where he met his wife, Myrna and married her in 1963. He also enjoyed snowmobiling with his wife and children for many years.

He was one of the first members of the Dairylea, NYS Maple Association and Ellington Fire Department. Lew was an active member of the fire department for 20 years and served as chief for 10 of those years. He served as fire chief from 1952-63 and assistant chief until 1966.

Surviving is his wife of 58 years, Myrna (Johnson) Rice; a daughter, Jodelle Rice (Pat Moss); a son, Douglas (Amy) Rice; grandchildren: Brian Haskins, Jake and Cody Rice, all of Ellington, Ashley Haskins of Rocky Point, N.Y.; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Robert (Laurene) Rice; and a sister, Ruth (Richard) McCargo.

There will be no calling hours or funeral in honor of Lew’s wishes. A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Monday in Valley View Cemetery, Ellington, for family and friends, with a celebration of life to follow at the Ellington Fire Department.

Memorials may be donated to the Ellington Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 59, Ellington, NY 14732 or Chautauqua Hospice and Palliative Care, 20 W. Fairmount Ave., Lakewood, NY 14750.

Visit our website at www.falconerfuneral home.net to send a message of condolence.