Obituary of Helen Jane Bartron

Helen Jane Knapp Bartron, Jane, died at her home in Bath, New York on Wednesday, December 10, 2014. She had lived a ninety six year life filled with cherished times with her family and friends. Jane was born September 5, 1918 in Bath where she resided for her entire life. She was the oldest child of Florence and Wilbur Knapp and had two siblings, Charles Knapp and Nancy Knapp Smith Duke. Her husband, Harold Bartron and son Stevie both tragically died when Jane was a young woman. Jane graduated from Haverling High School in 1935 and went on to graduate from Elmira College in the class of 1939. She then worked at Robert Packer Hospital In-Hospital Dietetics. She was Clerk of the Steuben County Surrogate Court until 1959 when she ran for County Treasurer and won. She held that position for twenty one years. Her membership and leadership of organizations such as the AAUW, Business and Professional Women, the DAR, and the Bath Women's Republican Club brought her many local and New York State awards. She was inducted into the Steuben County Hall of Fame in 2004. Jane had good friends with whom she shared many infamous escapades. Her sister-in- law Lucy Knapp was a long time friend and confidante. Jane was an avid bowler, golfer, and bridge player. She loved her pets Holly, Mork and Mindy, and her beloved parrot Chester. By far, Jane's favorite role was that of "Aunt Jane." Her nine nieces and thirteen great nieces and nephews filled her life with fun and laughter. She was predeceased by nieces Eliza Knapp, Patty Eichler, and Sue Johnson. Nieces Pamela Knapp, Anne Smith Abbey, Jennifer Kuhl-Peterson, Karen Andrus, Katharine Ainsworth, and Kathleen Smith helped and supported her until the end of her life. A Funeral Service will be held on Monday December 15, 2014 at 11:00 am at the First Presbyterian Church of Bath with Reverend Dr. Stanley Bhasker officiating. Memorials may be made to the Fredonia College Foundation, in memory of Graham E. Andrus Memorial Scholarship, 272 Central Avenue, Fredonia, NY 14063. Condolences may be made at www.fagansfuneralhome.com.