Theodore D. Socha

Theodore D. Socha, a longtime Royalton resident, passed away on July 19 at the age of 97.  He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 68 years Harriet K. (Muck) Socha. For many years Ted and Harriet operated a family-run apple orchard, sharing their harvest with customers from throughout western New York, and living his credo of “staying close to the land.” Ted was a 78 year member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, beginning his career as a lineman in the 1940s, installing telephone poles with teams of horses. He was an avid reader, and a man with a strong work ethic -- and opinions.

He was predeceased by his parents John Socha and Janina (Mikolajczyk) Socha Rybacki; brothers Cmdr. Edward (Naomi), William (Margaret) and Michael (Marjorie) Socha and Stanley (Diane) and Rear Adm. Richard (Susan) Rybacki; sister Adeline (Laverne) Glena; and brothers-in-law Philip (Alma) and Timothy (Elenore) Muck.

He is survived by daughters Deborah (Chuck Dragoo) Estabrook and Mary (Paul) Pichey; sons Stephen (Marie) and Timothy (Robert Carlson) Socha; grandchildren Bradley (Leslie) Rosenthal and Stephanie (Gary) Cooper; great grandchildren Meadow Rosenthal, Cole and Knox Cooper; sister Veronica (late Joseph) Hallissey; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Services will be private at the request of the family.  Arrangements will be made by Sherrie Bream Funeral Home, 4521 Main Street, Gasport. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to FeedMore of WNY Foundation, 100 James E. Casey Drive, Buffalo, NY 14206.

To share a special memory of Theodore, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.