Mr. Thomas L. Dufford, 89, of Batavia, died Thursday (July 11, 2013) at The Villages of Orleans Health and Rehabilitation Center in Albion.
Mr. Dufford was born March 5, 1924 in Butler, PA, a son of the late Floyd and Myrtle (Parker) Dufford.
Mr. Dufford was an owner and driver of harness horses. His harness racing career began in 1945 with a stable along with his father. He went on to be a top driver at Buffalo Raceway and Batavia Downs in the 1960's and 1970's. A veteran, he served with the United States Merchant Marines from 1943 to 1945, earning four medals of distinction.
Survivors include his wife of 68 years, Marie (DeFeo) Dufford of Batavia; three daughters, Patricia (Raymond) Cable of Batavia, Bonnie Dufford of Batavia and Jean (Chuck) Scibetta of Williamsville; a daughter-in-law, Mary Dufford of Collinsville, IL; seven grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
He is the father of the late Thomas F. Dufford.
There are no prior calling hours and services will be held at the convenience of the family.