Claude V. Orcutt

1931 - 2021

Claude V. Orcutt 1931 - 2021
HERKIMER - Claude Vernon Orcutt, age 89, passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, June 6, 2021 in St. Elizabeth's Medical Center, Utica. At the time of his passing, he had the support and comfort of his loving family by his side.
Claude was born on June 16, 1931, in Herkimer, the son of the late Claude N. and Maude Mickle Orcutt. He was raised and educated in Mohawk. On August 2, 1952, he was united in marriage to the former Rita Netti at St. Anthony's Church. It was in that year that they made their home and began their future together in Herkimer. Claude retired from Chicago Pneumatic Tool Company, Utica, in 1993 after 27 years of service. He served as Shop Union Steward and was Regional President for the United Foundry Workers AFL-CIO. For 28 years, he proudly served in the Army National Guard, retiring at the rank of First Sergeant.
Claude had a strong belief in God and was a communicant of Sts. Anthony and Joseph Church, Herkimer.
Always demonstrating a genuine sense of community, for twenty years he served as a board member and President of Oak Hill Cemetery. He also served as a board member of Herkimer Polish Home, East Herkimer Fish and Game Club and Fort Dayton Steamers Volunteer Fire Company.
Claude was happiest when he was surrounded by family and friends. He especially enjoyed his cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren and he made a profound impression on each of their lives.
Surviving him are his devoted wife of 68 years, Rita; two daughters, Claudia Gloo and her husband, Stephen and Cindy Rhymestine and her husband, Richard; two sons, Matt Orcutt and his companion, Diana Laymon, Dan Orcutt and his wife, Sue, all of Herkimer. He is also survived by a sister, Shirley Schmelcher and her husband, Robert, of New Hartford; eight grandchildren, Catherine Marsh and husband, Geoffrey, Brett Rhymestine, Aaron Gloo and his wife, Veronica, Eric Rhymestine, Cassandra Cristman and her husband, Justin, Ben Orcutt, Jaclyn Orcutt and Jason Orcutt; five great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his grandparents, Floyd and Bessie Mickle, with whom he was especially close; and Perry Mickle, Jr. and Harold Mickle and his wife, Helen who were like brothers to Claude.
Calling hours for Mr. Orcutt will be held on Sunday, June 13th from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at Fenner Funeral Home, Inc., 115 Court Street, Herkimer. His funeral will commence from the funeral home on Monday, June 14th at 9:30 AM followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM at the Church of Sts. Anthony and Joseph, Herkimer. Interment, with Military Honors, will be at Oak Hill Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Wounded Warriors Project. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.