Obituary of Richard D Zentmire

Schenectady-Richard D Zentmire passed away peacefully on September 8, 2011. He was born March 8,1919 to D Harold and Naomi Zentmire in Kirksville, MO. He grew up in Marengo, Iowa where he became an Eagle Scout. He studied engineering at Iowa State in Ames, completed their ROTC program, and graduated in 1940. Employment with General Electric brought him east to Schenectady. He became active in Union Presbyterian Church, where he met and married Frances Ruder on May 22, 1942. By then war had come. Dick was commissioned 2nd lieutenent in the US Army, and served from 1942 to 1945 in the European Theater. He mustered out with the rank of Major. Returning to his job at GE, Dick worked tirelessly until his retirement in 1983. "I never expected retirement to be like this," he once said, as his beloved Frances succumbed to the slow ravages of Alzheimer's disease. He became her caregiver for what became a ten-year ordeal. That he would sacrifice for her was never in question. . Dick was active in Boy Scout Troop 11, and was an Elder and a Deacon at his church for many years, until Frances' condition demanded constant attention. Dick was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife Frances, and his youngest son Robert. Remaining behind to celebrate our patriarch's life are three children: Judith (Richard) Wallman of Walworth, NY; David Zentmire of Schenectady, NY; William (Barbara) Zentmire of Overland Park, KS; five grandchildren: Traci (Brian) Kilby and Paige (John) Simms of Florida, Nathanael Barnes of Texas, Kristine (Joel) Butler of Missouri, Katherine (Kelly) Mulholland of Ireland. In addition, he is survived by his great granchildren Josiah, Shannon, Sean, Ava, Ella, Brandon, Andrew, Riley, Alex. Mr. Zentmire will be cremated and interred with his loved ones at Vale Cemetery in Schenectady. A memorial service will be held at 3 PM September 29, 2011 ar Union Presbyterian Church, 1068 Park Avenue, Schenectady. In his 92 years our Dad came to know war and loss and grief as well as joy and love and success. We who remain will not forget. We love you. AMEN