Arnold E. Calkins

Arnold E. "Butch" Calkins, 75, of Great Valley, NY died Sunday, November 17, 2024 at home following a long illness.

Born December 16, 1948 in Franklinville, NY, he was the son of the late Henry and Jeannette Mosamdel Calkins. He was married to Marie “Punky” Sullivan Calkins who predeceased him in 2000.

He had been employed as a welder with both AVM Signor, Ellicottville, NY, for over 38 years, retiring in 2004 and McHone Industry in Salamanca, NY for ten years retiring in 2014.

Arnold enjoyed farming, the outdoors, hunting, camping, and trap shooting. He was a former member of the Salamanca Conservation Club.

Surviving are: his longtime companion, Judy Gebauer, Great Valley, NY; two sons, John Calkins, Great Valley, NY, Bradley Calkins, Blasdale, NY; ; a daughter, Jeanette Pierson, Cheektowaga, NY; two step sons, Tom (Jillian) Crouse, Little Valley, NY, Tony (Kim Kelly) Crouse, Limestone NY; two step daughters, Arlene (Patrick) Smith, Limestone, NY, Lou (Jeff) Harrison, Salamanca, NY; sixteen grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by a twin infant sister, three other sisters, and two brothers.

There will be no visitation.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the convenience of the family and will be announced.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to the Cattaraugus County 4-H Program, 28 Parkside Drive, Ellicottville, NY 14731.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the O’Rourke & O’Rourke Inc Funeral Home, 25 River Street, Salamanca, NY.

E-condolences can be sent to orourke.orourkefh@gmail.com or posted to facebook.com/onofh.