DELANCEY - Max Richard Baldauf, 81, passed away unexpectedly Thursday, Jan. 17, 2019, at his farm in DeLancey. He would often joke of his wish to pass with his barn boots on. Ironically, he peacefully passed while doing what he loved most - working in the barn.

Richard was born Feb. 5, 1937, to Emil Reinhard and Ida Frieda (Roemer) Baldauf at the family farm on Terry Clove Road, a place he would call home for his entire life. He was a 1954 graduate of Downsville Central School and from 1957 to 1959, he served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in northern California.

On Aug. 20, 1960, he married Marlene Ehlermann in East Meredith. They were later sealed for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake Temple on June 14, 1961.

In 1962, they purchased the farm from his father. Together they raised eight children and instilled in them a love of the land and the value of hard work.

His life revolved around faith, family and farming and he was fortunate to farm with his family by his side. Though quiet by nature, his actions demonstrated his love and teaching moments for his family. His love for animals and his attraction to the land found him working tirelessly throughout his life.

He served on various local agricultural boards and committees. In addition to the harsh demands of farming, his faith in and service to the Lord were also of utmost importance to him. He was always diligent in his church responsibilities which included many leadership roles, opportunities to travel and speak with congregations around central New York, and serving in the Palmyra Temple.

In his spare time he enjoyed hunting, fishing, berry picking, square dancing, gardening, stacking wood, reading and telling stories.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 58 years, Marlene Baldauf; his children and grandchildren, Susan and Larry Hoyt (Bryan and Courtney), David and Amy Baldauf, Jeffery and Gina Baldauf (Zachary, Megan, Nathan, Trevor and Tyler), Marsha Baldauf, Brian and Teresa Baldauf (Jake and Sarah), Robert Baldauf, Christine Baldauf and Sandra and Patrick Noonan (Connor and Hollene). He is also survived by siblings, Hilda Baldauf, Herbert Baldauf, Martha (Susie) Gilham, Elsie (Beth) Hansen and Louise Larchar; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was predeceased by his parents; and brothers, Paul and John Baldauf.

Family and friends are invited to call from 4:3o to 6:30 p.m., Friday, Jan. 25, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Delview Terrace, Delhi. Funeral services will take place at the same location at noon, Saturday, Jan. 26, with a luncheon to follow. Burial will take place in the Hamden Cemetery at a later date.

Those wishing to do so may make a donation in his memory to the The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Humanitarian Aid Fund, c/o President Brian Knight, 2467 Back River Road, DeLancey, NY 13753.

Share condolences with the Baldauf family at www.hallandpeet.com.