Walter "Walt" Votra

CLYDE - Walter "Walt" Votra, 74, of Clyde, N.Y., passed away peacefully on September 13, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on August 11, 1951, in Malone, N.Y., Walt was a devoted husband, father, "Pa," and a cherished member of the Clyde community.

He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army and Army Reserves from 1970 to 1976. In 1980, Walt began working at The Big M in North Rose, N.Y., a family-owned grocery store run by his father-in-law. In 1989, he took over ownership of the store and continued to serve the community until its closure in 2011. A year later, he opened Hometown Meats and Deli in Clyde, where his warm personality and tireless work ethic quickly made the shop a local favorite. Walt's stores were more than just places to shop, they became gathering spots, where friendships grew and memories were made. In 2018, Walt retired, but remained active, working with the NYS Green Thumb Program at Seneca Lake State Park, where he could often be found mowing, a task he truly enjoyed.

Walt was deeply committed to public service. He served on the Clyde Town Board and the Clyde-Savannah Central School District Board of Education, always leading with integrity and deep care for the future of the community. He was also a devoted member of St. John's Church and the Holy Name Society.

A passionate sports fan, Walt especially loved cheering (and sometimes yelling) at the TV during Syracuse basketball games. However, his greatest pride was watching his grandchildren play sports. No matter the game, if they played it, he learned it, always their biggest fan. He also enjoyed gardening, reading historical non-fiction, and cruising in his Corvette.

Walt is survived by his beloved wife, Joanne Votra; his daughters, Jennifer Brown (Eric), Sarah Tripp (Tim), and Lauren Matthys (Mike); and five grandchildren who were the light of his life: Cameron, Mason, Connor, Ava, and Leo. He is also survived by his sister, Lynn Galen, and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Beatrice and Leon Votra, and his brother, Clifford Votra.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, September 19, at 10:30 a.m. at St. John's Church in Clyde, N.Y., followed by a burial at 2:00 p.m. in the New York State Veterans Memorial Cemetery – Finger Lakes.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Walt's memory may be made to The Laurel House or the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.

Walt will be remembered as a devoted family man, a proud veteran, a dedicated public servant, and a kind-hearted soul whose generosity, strength, and spirit left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.

Arrangements by Pusateri-Canolesio Funeral Home.