Obituary of Harold E. Ransley

Sodus/Coupeville, WA Harold E. Ransley, a resident of Sodus for most of his life, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2010 after a brave struggle with cancer. He was residing in Coupeville, WA where he moved with his wife, Jean, in 2003. Harold was born in 1927 in Sodus. Growing up during the Depression and being in military service during World War II, Harold had set his sights on college. He graduated from the Albany College of Pharmacy and went on to co-own the Rexall Pharmacy in Sodus, where he filled prescriptions and greeted customers for over 35 years. In 1956, he married Jean Lyon and together, they transformed an old farm house on North Road into a wonderful home, raised a family, hosted many get-togethers, and were well known and respected members of Sodus community. Harold and Jean moved to Whidbey Island, WA in 2003 to be closer to children and grandchildren. They took advantage of the range of activities the Pacific Northwest had to offer, and volunteered their time with church and community activities. After Jean passed away in September 2009, Harold remained active in his neighborhood and church until his death. Harold and Jean were active naturalists, environmentally aware and appreciative of nature’s gifts. Much of their life was devoted to enjoying the world as seen from a canoe, a trail, a beach or the top of a mountain – experiences often shared with their children, friends and family. They enjoyed travel, and after retirement explored many parts of the world. They were devoted parents and grandparents, who were actively engaged in the lives of their extended family members. They hosted numerous family trips in places that included the Adirondacks, Hawaii, the Caribbean, Oregon, and Florida Harold will be missed by many who came to know him over the years. He was a dignified gentleman on all accounts. He is survived by his brother, Richard Ransley and his wife Nancy; his daughter Keren (Ransley) LaCourse, husband Donald and sons Matthew and Benjamin; his daughter Lynda Ransley, husband Timothy Hohn and children Samuel, Bryce and Deah; his son Scott Ransley, wife Brenda and their children Ellen and Nathan. A memorial service will be held at 2 PM Saturday, October 16, 2010 at the Sodus United Third Methodist Church, 58 W. Main St. A memorial fund has been established with Ebey’s Landing, a favorite scenic preserve, and contributions may be sent in Harold’s name to P.O. Box 774, Coupeville, WA 98239