Ronald E. Neff

Ronald E. Neff

Madison-Ronald E. Neff, 91, a life resident of Madison, passed away peacefully, with the love and support of his family at his side, on Friday, November 24, 2023, at the Wynn Hospital.

Ron was born in the family farmhouse in Madison on May 30, 1932, the son of the late Duane and Ethel Holmes Neff.  Ron attended Madison Central School until his sixteenth birthday.  At 16, he left school to work the family farm for the next 50 years, retiring from farming in 1998 at the age of 66.  He later went on to receive his General Education Degree.  On March 29, 1975, Ron married Viola Wood, at the Madison United Methodist Church.  In his retirement, Ron dedicated himself to many community projects. He was past president and current Board Member of the Madison Village Cemetery Association.  He was also past president and founding member of the Madison Historical Society.  Ron was also instrumental in the rebirth and development of the Chenango Canal Walk.  He also had served as a past president and current board member of the Chenango Canal Association.  He was a member of the CNY Antique Tractor Club.  Ron restored many historical tractors, and some he built from many different tractors and spare parts.   He enjoyed every event and parade he could show off his tractors. When he wasn’t fixing tractors or involved in community projects, Ron enjoyed square and round dancing with Viola. They belong to several different round and square dance clubs.  He had also mastered the ability to be a round and square dance caller.   Ron will always be remembered for his glowing smile, his positive attitude, and his willingness to always be there for others.  He was a devoted and loving husband, father and grandfather.  

Ron’s passing is mourned by his beloved wife of 48 years, Viola; his cherished son and daughter-in-law, Kevin and Darlene Neff of Madison; his beloved grandson Lucas Neff also of Madison.  Ron is also survived by numerous, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many close friends.

He was predeceased by his parents, Duane and Ethel, his beloved daughter Pamela, his sister Estella, and his two brothers Ralph and Lucian.

Ron’s funeral will be held on Thursday, November 30, 2023, at 11 AM, at the Paul Funeral Home of Madison, with the Rev. Louise Sitts, Pastor of the First Baptist Church of Madison, officiating.  Interment will be in Madison Village Cemetery.  Family and friends are invited to calling hours on Wednesday from 4-7 PM at the funeral home 3592 South Street in Madison.   Ron and his family are being provided professional and compassionate personal care by Jeffrey T. Paul, Director, of the Paul Funeral Home of Madison. To offer a condolence or share a memory, please visit: paulfuneralhome.net

In lieu of flowers, please assist to support Ron’s life’s work by supporting either one of his favorite community organizations. Madison Village Cemetery Association, P.O. Box 35, Madison, NY 13402-0035, or Madison Historical Society, P.O. Box 66, Madison, NY 13402-0066, or the Chenango Canal Association, In care of Diane VanSlyke, 6852 Indian Opening Road, Bouckville, NY 13310.  Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

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