Charles Dale Ordiway, 89, passed away on Monday (September 22, 2025) at home surrounded by his loving family.
Mr. Ordiway was born on February 22, 1936 at home in Andover to Lawrence Donald and Lillian Mirtie (Halsey) Ordiway. He attended Andover Central School and later completed the GED for high school. On October 8, 1967 at the Andover First Baptist Church parsonage, Dale married the love of his life, Diane C. Lehman, who survives. Dale served his country for 16 years as a member of the Army National Guard.
Dale had a varied work experience, having worked at Penn Line Service in Harrison Valley, Pa., Joyce Western Pipeline in Andover, and Bethesda Hospital in North Hornell. He finished his working years at Alfred University in the maintenance department, where he retired in 1998.
Along with his wife of 57 years, Dale is survived by four children, Paula Cornell of Andover, Donna (Christopher) Bertram of Canisteo, Larry Ordiway of Alfred Station, and Jamie Ordiway of Andover; five grandchildren, Devin Cornell of Buffalo, Steven (Jessica) Jefferds of South Hornell, William Jefferds of Bath, Karissa Ordiway of Andover, and Bryce (Kortnie) Ordiway of Bangor, Maine; two “adopted sons”, Jerry Joyce and Douglas Miller, both of Andover; as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Dale was the last of his generation, having been preceded in death by all four siblings, Kenneth (Betty) Ordiway, Paul (Lorraine) Ordiway, Ruby (Stanley) Ordiway and infant brother, Lawrence Donald Ordiway, Jr.
Dale loved spending time outside; he was a hunter and fisherman at heart. He also found camping very gratifying, often taking his family to places like Lyman Run and Cherry Springs, Pa. One of his simple pleasures was traveling the backroads with his wife to enjoy the view.
As a spectator, Dale was a devoted Pittsburg Pirates fan, with special admiration for Willie Stargell. Closer to home, and closer to heart, he delighted in watching Andover soccer and baseball, cheering all the louder when family was playing.
He enjoyed wood crafting, making decorative items for both the yard and the home. He also enjoyed the challenge of a good jigsaw puzzle, spending many hours at this pastime with Diane.
Dale was a long-time member of the American Legion Lynch-Burgett Post #397 in Andover as well as Andover First Baptist Church.
There will be a time of visitation on Saturday (September 27) at Baker-Swan Funeral Home in Andover from 1 – 4 p.m. Immediately following the visitation, Dale’s memorial service will take place at 4:00 p.m. with Rev. Daryl Ordiway of the Andover First Baptist Church officiating. Burial with full military honors will follow in Valley Brook Cemetery in Andover. Online condolences may be offered at www.baker-swan.com.
Memorial contributions in Dale’s name may be made to the American Legion Lynch-Burgett Post #397, 22 E. Greenwood Street, Andover, NY 14806. © 2024 Baker-Swan Funeral Home.
