Nelson C. “Butch” VanAvery, 77, of Fultonville, passed away on Friday, September 24, 2021 after a brief illness. Born in Fultonville on October 5, 1943, he was the son of the late Nelson and Anneira James VanAvery.
He was a lifelong area resident and attended local schools.
During the Korean War, Nelson was stationed in Korea and proudly served in the United States Army.
Nelson worked for many years as a Beaterboss and was employed by Sonoco Paper Products in Amsterdam until his retirement.
He was a member of the Pine Tree Rifle Club in Johnstown and was an avid hunter and fisherman, hobbies he loved to share with his kids and grandkids.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by two sisters, Paula Whitman and Noreen Langford.
urvivors include his wife of fifty years, Valorie Ropeter VanAvery whom he married on July 3, 1971; his children, Tina (Brian) Kearns of Fultonville, Nelson (Rachel) VanAvery of Ilion, NY, Eric (Amy) VanAvery of Fultonville, Annie (Scott) Himpsl of Broadalbin, Robert VanAvery of Gloversville, and Amanda Wemple of Fonda; a brother, David (Sue) VanAvery of Rockwood, NY; a sister, Kathy Nunnley of Alabama. Nelson loved his family and above all, he adored his fourteen grandchildren, Cheyenne, Christian, Meghan, Mariah, Cade, Emerald, Nathan, Kailee, Breanna, Kyle, Noah, Leigha, Matthew, and Austin. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews, cousins, and his beloved dog companion, Zoey.
Cremation will be performed at Park View Crematorium in Schenectady. A celebration of Nelson’s life will be held and announced at a later date.
Arrangements are in the care of Robert M. Halgas Funeral Home, Inc. 111 County Highway 106 Johnstown.
To express online condolences visit www.halgasfuneralhome.com.
