Obituary of Michael Carl Gifford

Michael Carl Gifford, 61, of Sidney, found peace on Monday, May 22, 2017. Mike was born July 13, 1955, in Oneonta, to the late Carl and Beatrice (Finch) Gifford of Masonville. He grew up on the family dairy farm, surrounded by the beautiful countryside of Delaware County. After graduating school in Sidney, Mike spent several years travelling and working in Florida, Arizona, and Colorado, however he always returned to New York, eventually settling in Sidney, logging and farming for as long as his health permitted. The lights of his life were his wife, Kimberly, whom he married September 5, 1992; his daughter, Jessica, and his stepson, Tom; and there was a special place in his heart for his niece, Danielle. Mike was most at home when he was immersed in the abundant nature of the foothills of the Catskill Mountains. Whether he was hunting, fishing, or farming, he relished his time spent in harmony with every beautiful season of the region. He enjoyed beekeeping, breaking and driving Percherons, and carpentry. He additionally had a knack for cultivating many of the beautiful plants that grow wild in the area. He adored his nieces and nephews, and often had at least one tagging along with him on the farm. He was a gentle soul, who didn't hesitate to give of himself if someone he cared for was in need. He is survived by his wife, Kimberly, Sidney; daughter, Jessica, Austin, Texas; stepson, Tom Patterson, Los Angeles California; sister, Jeanne and Truman Backus, Guilford; three brothers, John, Oneonta; David, Pennsylvania; Henry, Florida; mother-in-law, Joan Cialleo: sisters-in-law, Paulette Patrick and Lianne and Lewis Sawabini; brother-in-law, Mitch Goff as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his sister, Frances Goff. There will be a celebration of life on Sunday, June 4, 2017 at Copes Corners Park, Gilbertsville, NY at 1 pm. In lieu of flowers please donate to any of the following in Mike's memory: Sidney Emergency Squad, 21 Liberty St. Sidney NY or the DCBA c/o Christina Mitchell 81 Liberty Street Walton NY 13856 (Delaware County Beekeepers Assoc. these funds will be used for a scholarship for beginning beekeeping equipment and classes). Condolences may be shared with the family online at www.landersfh.com. Arrangements are under the direction of C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel, Sidney.