Obituary of Wallace J. Orton

Wallace Joseph Orton Wallace J. Orton (Bud) died at Saratoga Hospital on the 14th of January 2024. He persevered for 10 years fighting dementia and was loved by his family and friends throughout. Bud was born April 26th, 1935, and lived his entire life in Wilton. He was the son of the late Wallace P. and Alice Orton (Senecal). Due to his mother's early passing when Bud was 3; he was raised by his aunt, the late Naomi Sharpe. He was predeceased by his loving daughter, Donna. Bud served in the United States Navy for 12 years. While he was stationed in Scotland, he met his wife, Catherine Hay. Bud and Catherine married in 1962 and were married for 61 years. Bud operated a Pick-Your-Own strawberry farm on his property in Wilton for 25 years, while simultaneously working full time for General Electric in Fort Edward. He was an active member of the Wilton community: supporting the Wilton Heritage Society, Trinity United Methodist Church, and the Wilton Fire Department. Following his diagnosis in 2013, Bud received support from family and health care professionals at the Fort Hudson Day program. His home health aides: Donna, Karen, Rosemarie, and Tamiko were paramount in his everyday comfort and needs; special thanks to everyone who cared for Bud at Saratoga Hospital D2 and Hospice staff. Those left to cherish his memory include wife, Catherine, daughter, Alison (Craig) Schoonover, son, David (Linda) Orton, brothers Jerome Orton, Malcolm (Janet) Orton, grandchildren Kyle (Natalie) Schoonover, Kelly (Kate) Schoonover, and Olivia Orton. Calling hours are Saturday, the 20th of January from 4 – 7pm at Wilton Funeral Home. Services will be held on Sunday, January 21st at Trinity United Methodist Church: 155 Ballard Rd. Wilton, NY 12831 at 2pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Trinity UMC for outreach programs. For directions or condolences visit us at www.mevecfuneralhome.com.