Obituary of Arthur William Wilson

South Colton- Mr. Arthur W. Wilson, 70, passed away Wednesday March 30, 2016 at the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington, after his courageous battle with cancer. Arrangements are entrusted to Hammill Funeral Home in Winthrop. Art was born in Ogdensburg on April 13, 1945 to the late Charles W. and Inez E. (Woodbridge) Wilson. He was raised and educated locally, graduating from Morristown High School. For 25 dedicated years, Art was the Transportation Supervisor at Potsdam Central School District; where he created a positive and constructive work environment while sharing in the camaraderie of his co-workers and friends. Art married the love of his life, Diane Marie Gilman on April16, 2005 in Myrtle Beach, SC.; their favorite vacation retreat. They shared a mutual love and respect for each other. Art was always a true and patient gentleman. As a team, they remodeled and built their home on the South Colton Flow. He had a passion for the outdoors, was an avid hunter and skilled carpenter. It was no secret that Art liked to keep busy; puttering around outside or developing any new projects that he could get his hands on. His greatest pride and joy was that of his grandchildren, who lovingly know him as "Papa". Not only did he always have Skittles or candy on hand for them, but he also doubled as their personal jungle gym and snuggle buddy. There was never a shortage of playing outside, 4-wheeler rides and laughter; Papa took great pleasure in spoiling his grandchildren and loved every minute of it. Art was a long standing member of the Longshoreman’s Union of Ogdensburg and was a president and member of the Parishville ATV Club. He is survived by his wife Diane, and her 4 daughters, who he loved as his own; Jennifer (Dylan) Hays of Horseheads, Jill (Dan) Corbett of Clayton, Jaime (Rob) Bicknell of Potsdam, and Gina (Chris) Pryce of Brookdale, 2 daughters: Sue (Jeff) Rabideau of Wanakena, and Dawn Stitzer of MO., 2 sons: Donald and Michael Wilson, and all his adored grandchildren. Survivors also include his 3 sisters: Hope Brooks, Karen (Terry) Moquin, and Cheryl Hazelton, and 1 brother, Edward (Diane) Wilson, a brother-in-law Jerry McDougal, sister-in-law Erlie Wilson, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his sister Joan McDougal and his brother Ron Wilson. In keeping with Art’s wishes, there will be no services. A Celebration of his Life will be held at a later date at the convenience of his family. The family would like to extend a sincere thanks to the Hope Lodge in Burlington for their compassion and hospitality. For those wishing to express an act of kindness please consider memorial contributions in Art’s honor to the American Cancer Society Hope Lodge Lois McClure-Bee Tabakin Building, 237 East Avenue, Burlington VT 05401-3412. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.hammillfh.com.