Russell Joy, Jr., age 78, of Fredonia, NY died Sunday, February 8, 2016 at his Fredonia home with his family at his side. He was born in Fredonia, NY on May 30, 1937 to the late Russell and Rose Joy.
Russ was a graduate of Fredonia High School, class of 1954. He was a third-generation owner of Joy Farms, located in Fredonia, NY, that specialized in growing green beans for processing, fresh market strawberries, sweet corn, tomatoes and grapes. He was a kind and generous man who loved his family, farm, friends, his Fredonia and a good joke. Known to so many as "Papa Joy," his house was always welcoming, full of laughter and always had a box of silly hats for all to wear.
Russ is survived by his wife of 56 years, Barbara; his daughter, Kathleen and son, Russell (Deborah); his beloved grandchildren, Erin, Brian, and Ellen Callahan, Piper and Sydney Joy; and very special friend Roberto Fred. He was especially thankful to the Roberto Fred and Augusto families for their commitment and dedication to his farm. They were the reason for its fruitfulness and success.
Calls may be made Thursday, February 11 at the Larson-Timko Funeral Home, 20 Central Avenue, Fredonia, NY from 4 to 8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Holy Trinity Church, 1032 Central Avenue, Dunkirk, NY on Friday, February 12 at 10 a.m. (please assemble at church). Interment will be in St. Anthony's Cemetery.
Flowers gratefully declined. Memorial contributions in Russ' memory may be made to the Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation - Joy Family Fund, 212 Lake Shore Drive West, Dunkirk, NY 14048.
Online condolences may be made at www.larsonimkofuneralhome.com. Arrangements by David J. Dengler.
By the Observer
