Obituary of Bruce Allen Baxter

Bruce Baxter Afton, NY Bruce "Farmer" Baxter of Afton passed away Monday, March 17, 2014 at his home with his family. Bruce was born on July 3, 1937 and raised in Union City, NJ, then moved to West Milford, NJ in 1963. Bruce always loved Christmas, he and his brother would build massive Christmas displays, which started out with their childhood home and continued to their future homes. The displays always attracted a lot of attention; Bruce and John both have won awards for their elaborate displays. In 1969, Bruce and his wife, Charlotte wanted a country retreat in Afton, NY so in 1976 Bruce started planting a snow fence of pine trees at the country retreat; little did he know that his "live" snow fence would turn into a Christmas tree farm. Bruce earned Outstanding Tree Farmer of the Year 1996 and moved to what is now known as Baxter Tree Farm permanently in 1997. Many people would come and visit the Tree Farm, whether they purchased a Christmas tree or were just stopping to say hello, they were all greeted with a warm cup of apple cider, open arms and a smile. Bruce and Charlotte would always make anyone feel welcome and at home. Bruce also loved nature and wildlife. He built several ponds and food plots on the farm to provide the wildlife with food and water throughout the year. He taught his family to respect and appreciate the land and anyone who was willing to listen. His future generations has quite a legacy to live up to. Every Sunday, we all listened to Bill Flynn on the radio to start the day on the farm. Some visitors were taken aback by the polkas but always returned. At the farm everyone felt at home and was eager to pitch in. Being at the farm always made you feel part of something bigger than yourself. Bruce is survived by his wife of 55 years, Charlotte (Schilling) Baxter Children – Bruce Baxter, Jr. and wife Trish, Tammy Griebel and husband Joe Four Grandsons, Erik, Derek, Robert and Scott. Brother, John Baxter Bruce was also predeceased by his parents Mainard and May Baxter. Friends may call from 2-4 and 7-8 PM on Thursday, March 20, 2014 at C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel 21 Main St. Sidney, NY. A funeral service will follow at 8:00 PM with Rev. Emrys Tyler officiating. In lieu of flowers kindly make donations to Lourdes Hospice 4102 Old Vestal Road Vestal, NY 13850 or your favorite charity. Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.landersfh.com Arrangements are under the direction of C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel Sidney