Bion J. Carpenter, 89, passed away Saturday January 15, 2011, after a long battle with Alzheimer's. He was born in Wayne, N.Y. Mrs. Edith A. Carpenter preceded him in death in July 2010. They lived most of their married life in Ithaca. Bion and Edith spent their retirement years in Florida. They were married 67 years.

Bion worked for Genex (formally Eastern NYABC) for 44 years. He grew up on a farm and loved working in Agriculture his whole life.

Bion was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. That was his most important job.

He also enjoyed gardening, being superintendent of Sunday school at the Ithaca Baptist church, and helping friends and family. He was always there to lend a helping hand for anyone. In Florida, he enjoyed walking by the ocean, shuffle board and helping other people in the park they lived in.

Bion is survived by his daughters, JoAnn "Jody" (Floyd) Duger of Elbridge, NY and Sharon Washburn of Trumansburg, NY and a son, Wayne Carpenter. As well as his grandchildren, Rebecca, Catherine and Pamela Duger, Timothy and Robert Washburn, Jason and Christina Carpenter; and great-grandchildren.

A memorial is planned for sometime in the spring. Burial will be private.

Donations may be made in lieu of flowers to the Alzheimer's Association of Syracuse 441 W. Kirkpatrick St. Syracuse, NY 13204