Jeffrey J. Thew, 69, passed away on Sunday, January 3, 2016, at his home in Lewis, NY, surrounded by his family and following a long, courageous battle with cancer.
Jeff was born in Keene Valley, NY to Spencer and Iola Thew (Cassavaugh) and grew up in the Lewis and Peru, NY areas. He graduated Peru High School and earned his degree in Mechanical Engineering from Clarkson University. Jeff served in the United States Navy, serving on the USS Simon Lake in Scotland, where he met his wife Maureen Simpson Thew. Jeff owned and operated his business, North Star Drilling, in Cortland, NY for over 20 years. Jeff was an avid private pilot, earning both fixed wing and helicopter ratings. Jeff enjoyed snow skiing, Scouting, boating, and serving as crew chief/mechanic for friends and family involved in recreational racing.
Jeff is survived by his wife of 46 years, Maureen; his children Heather and Scott, their spouses; as well as his beloved grandchildren. Also surviving Jeff are his mother, Iola Collinson; his brother, Spencer (Jim) Thew; and many close relatives and friends.
Calling hours will be from 4:00 to 6:00 PM Wednesday January 6, 2015 at Marvin-Heald Funeral Home, 7521 Court Street, Elizabethtown. A funeral service will follow at 6:00 PM in the Marvin-Heald Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers donations in Jeffrey’s memory may be made to Elizabethtown-Lewis Rescue Squad or to High Peaks Hospice.
To light a memorial candle or leave an online condolence please visit
www.healdfuneralhomeinc.com
"If you die, it does not mean you lose to cancer. You beat cancer by how you live, why you live, and the manner in which you live."