John S. Osborne

John S. Osborne, 83, of Vestal, NY, died on April 16, 2010 at home. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Norma; three daughters and sons-in-law, Carolyn and George T. Williams, Bainbridge NY, Susan and Timothy Owen, Vestal, NY, Joyce and Peter Ciaravino, Apalachin, NY; one son and daughter-in-law, John and Barbara Osborne, Harrisburg, NC; eight grandchildren, Michelle and Daniel (Lea) Williams, Joshua Owen, Joseph and Tressa Ciaravino and John, Danielle and Mark (Abigail) Osborne. He was born in Ithaca NY, son of the late John and Lucile Osborne. John was a loving father and grandfather and enjoyed attending their many athletic and musical activities. He served in the United States Navy during World War II as an Electronics Technician Mate. Upon discharge from the Navy he enlisted in the United States Naval Reserve, serving for fourteen years. He graduated in 1949 from Cornell University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering and later earned a Master’s Degree from Syracuse University. He was employed by IBM in 1949 as a Customer Engineer in New York City and transferred to Endicott as an Engineer in 1952. He was later transferred to Owego and retired in 1988. After his retirement, he enjoyed being active in many activities: President of IBM Quarter Century Club, RSVP Advisory Council, Vestal Historical Society Treasurer, Cornell Phonathon, Election Inspector, Senior Net Coach, Census Enumerator. He was extremely proud of his volunteer work with the Broome County AARP Tax-Aide Program, having served as Tax Counselor, Local Coordinator and Technical Coordinator. He was responsible for initiating electronic filing in Broome County. He was a longtime member of the Vestal United Methodist Church and was church historian. During his lifetime he donated ten gallons of blood to the Red Cross. Funeral Services will be held Monday, 11 am from Vestal United Methodist Church. Burial will be in Vestal Park Cemetery. The family will receive friends at church Monday from 9 am until service time at 11 am. Expressions of sympathy in John’s memory may be made to the Vestal United Methodist Church Memorial Fund, 328 Main Street, Vestal, NY 13850 or the charity of your choice.