September 12, 2023. Predeceased by his daughter, Jackie Boyd and son in-law, Frank Mentesana. Survived by his wife MaryLu; children, Debbie (Joe) Quigley, Douglas (Kim) Roeser, Wendy Mentesana, Ronald (Sharon) Viola, Susan (Eric Wiesenberg) Viola; sister, Marian McHargue; several grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

These are Harold’s grandchildren, great grandchildren and family members:

Tara (Sal) Dublo; Samuel and Zachary Dublo. Erin (Patrick) Sheehan; Kylie and Olivia Sheehan.

James Roeser (Trish); Cael, Chris. Tim Roeser.

Christopher Butusov (Heather) Murphy Rose Butusov.

Heather Ponce; Erasmo Ponce and Kooper Ponce.

Ashley & John McDonald; Hayden O’Brien, Riley McDonald and Noah McDonald.

Nicholas Coia, Robert Simone Jr. and Kayla Simone.

Harold leaves behind not only his beloved wife of 41 years, MaryLu, but also his loving family listed above as well as many long time and valued friends. These friends would undoubtedly confirm that time with Harold was time well spent, whether they were working together to help a friend or neighbor out, walking the woods and fields hunting, or just sitting down for a visit and a cold beverage. Really, any time spent with Harold was likely to include more than a few laughs and perhaps a few beers. The gruff exterior that occasionally surfaced typically yielded to a spontaneous smile and a good laugh accompanied by a twinkle in his bright blue eyes.

Harold’s life was long and varied to be sure. In brief, Harold was raised in the small town of Rush, NY (where everyone knows everyone).  A son of hard working immigrant parents, Harold learned the value of responsibility and hard work. With that foundation he acquired wonderful carpentry skills. Following his military service, where he served in the Korean War, Harold worked for his brother installing flooring and counter tops. Later he would work in maintenance for the Rush-Henrietta School District where his knowledge and abilities were put to good use.

Outside of work Harold was an avid hunter (deer, turkey, etc.) and fisherman. A favorite place to spend time with his buddies was their hunting camp in Bolivar, NY. The stories of their hunting endeavors are endless and often humorous. He truly appreciated the outdoors and the beauty of creation. In his latter years Harold found great enjoyment sitting on the front porch watching the humming birds swoop in and feed just a few feet away. Some of us are convinced that those humming birds knew his face and were not afraid to hover close in front of him for extended periods just looking into his blue eyes. We can easily conclude that watching birds of all kinds was his special delight.

Harold’s vegetable gardens were also something to behold. Perhaps his longevity can be attributed to all the healthy food he ate from his own garden. Then there was his canning of tomatoes, pickles, making hard cider and, oh my! His sauerkraut! The best!

With so many years of memories all who loved him are now entrusted with the bitter sweet responsibility to recall with fondness and perhaps a tear or two, the good times we shared with Harold. We miss him already but will never forget him, for he lives on in our hearts.

Friends and family may call SUNDAY Sept. 17th from 2-5 at Miller Funeral and Cremation Services, Inc. (3325 Winton Rd. S) where Harold’s Service will be held MONDAY Sept. 18th at 10 AM. Interment Pine Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers contributions to the Ely-Fagan American Legion Post. (WEBSITE)