A memorial service for Theron C. “Bill” Given, 91 of Massena and formerly of Russell will be held at a future time at the O’Leary Funeral Home in Canton. Theron died on Friday, February 20, 2015 while at home, surrounded by his family. Theron is survived by his wife of 68 years, Jean of Massena; two daughters, Nancy (Norm) Hewlett and Kathy (Ricky) O’Shaughnessy, all of Massena; and by a son Donn (Cheryl) Given of Chittenango and two grandsons, Drew and Jason Given, nieces and nephews.
Theron was born, November 10, 1923 in Russell, the son of the late Myron and Anna (McCauslin) Given. He is predeceased by a brother Theodore Given and by half-sisters, Edith, Bertha and Ruth Demmon.
A World War II veteran, Theron served in the United States Army’s 740th AAA Battalion in France and Belgium.
He graduated from Knox-Memorial Central School and attended Canton ATI. On April 16, 1946 he married Jean S. Dodds at her family’s home in Russell. Theron worked for the Augsbury Corporation in Ogdensburg for 25 years, retiring as the Vice-President of Operations in 1979.
Theron enjoyed painting with watercolor, golfing, and spending time with his family. He was a member of the Norfolk American Legion and past member of Russell Volunteer Fire Department where he was the department’s second Fire Chief.
Contributions in his memory may be made to Russell Volunteer Fire Department, 5 Pestle Street, Russell, New York, 13684 or Hospice and Palliative Care of the St. Lawrence Valley; 6805 US Highway 11; Potsdam, New York 13676.
Memories and condolences may be expressed online at www.olearyfuneralservice.com.