Obituary of William Rawes Sherring

William "Bill" R. Sherring GENEVA- William "Bill" R. Sherring, age 84, of 354 Saint Clair Street passed away at home, surrounded by family on August 30th 2016. William was born in Mine Hill, NJ on 12/31/31 to William and Martha Sherring. He was a veteran of the Korean War and served in the Army. He graduated with a Master's Degree in Agronomy from West Virginia University in 1960. On June 18, 1961 he married the love of his life Helen L. Shinn in Parkersburg, WV. He and Helen then moved to Geneva, NY where Bill accepted a position with the New York State Experiment Station and worked 30 years before retiring. Bill will be remembered for his unparalleled ability to make people laugh with his clever jokes and unmatched skill at keeping a straight face while telling them, "har-har". He was a die-hard Yankee fan and devoted railroad buff, accumulating well over 300 collectables and artifacts associated with the Lackawanna railroad. After his retirement he spent his time as a passionate umpire for Geneva Little League, volunteering for the Geneva Center of Concern, delivering for Meals On Wheels, splitting wood to heat his home and pursuing his passion in the restoration and caning of antique chairs. He was recognized in 2010 by the American Red Cross for having over 20 gallons of blood drawn, all of which were distributed at silent auction to those in need. Bill is preceded in death by his father William M. Sherring, his mother Martha Sherring, his brother Stephen Brady, his sister Marie Brady and his many treasured pets. He is survived by his beloved wife Helen "honey" L. Sherring, his daughter Kathryn "punkin" M. Ortiz, his son William "Bing" M. Sherring, his cherished grandchildren Ryan, Krista and Madilyn and his nephews Stephen and James Brady. A funeral will take place at 11am on Wednesday September 7th at the Presbyterian Church in Geneva, NY. Bill leaves behind an everlasting example of unconditional love, integrity and patience. He created an unbreakable foundation for his family allowing us all to recognize and appreciate that "It's a Wonderful Life".