Obituary of Thomas J. Auckland

Arkport - Thomas J. Auckland, 77 passed away on January 25, 2023 at Vincent House in Wayland, NY. He was born in N. Hornell, NY on August 9, 1945 to Robert and Ada (Lehr) Auckland. Tom grew up in Arkport and graduated from Arkport Central School as salutatorian of the class of 1963. He was on the basketball team and the track team as well as a member of the chorus. He went to Alfred State College and received his degree in Construction Technology in 1965. Tom married Darlene (Harding) Auckland on August 14, 1965, who survives him. Tom was a Civil Engineer and retired from New York State Department of Transportation in 2000 after 32 years of service. He participated in their golf league and bowling league. Tom was a member of Arkport United Methodist Church where he was formerly active as lay leader, trustee, Sunday School teacher and choir member. He was known for his sense of humor and entertained many with his jokes. He was predeceased by his parents and a brother, Robert C. Auckland. In addition to Darlene, he is survived by a son, Gordon Auckland of Arkport, his daughter and son-in-law, Wendy and David Baker of Bath, NY; 2 granddaughters of whom he was most proud, Kristen Baker and Kyra Baker, both of Troy, NY; a brother, William (Suzanne) Auckland of Mt. Dora, FL; a sister-in-law, Mary Auckland of Springfield, OH; as well as several nieces and nephews. There will be no calling hours or public memorial service. A private service will take place for family and friends at a future time. In lieu of flowers, those who wish to remember Tom may contribute in his memory to Vincent House, 310 Second Ave., P. O. Box 566, Wayland, NY 14572; CareFirst NY, 3805 Meads Creek Rd., Painted Post, NY 14870; or to Arkport United Methodist Church, P. O. Box 146, Arkport, NY 14807-0146.