Myron (Zeke) Frederick Degenhardt

Myron "Zeke" Frederick Degenhardt was born in Cranford, New Jersey. As the son of an immigration officer, his family moved frequently, living in communities across New Jersey, Massachusetts, Maine, and New York. In 1940, they settled in Champlain, New York, where Zeke graduated from Rouses Point High School in 1941.

Following graduation, he worked at Sheridan Iron Works before enrolling at Champlain College. In the summer of 1943, Zeke joined the Navy Seabees and was deployed to the Pacific Theater during World War II. He achieved the rank of 3rd Class Petty Officer before being honorably discharged in 1946. Returning home to Champlain, he resumed his work at Sheridan Iron Works—later Harris Graphics—where he built a career spanning 43 years as a mechanical and electrical draftsman.

Zeke lived life to the fullest. He was an avid skier, exploring slopes across the United States and Europe alongside his brother Edwin. A skilled marksman, he enjoyed rifle, pistol, and shotgun shooting, as well as competing in skeet, trap, and sporting clays at various rod and gun clubs. He had a passion for sailing, navigating his Star-class sailboat on Lake Champlain, and he was a dedicated Harley-Davidson motorcyclist, making four memorable trips to Alaska.

Well past the age of 101, Zeke continued to live independently, rarely missing breakfast gatherings with friends at The Hungry Bear and Apple Lodge Eatery. He will be deeply missed by his many friends, fellow Harley-Davidson riders, Honor Flight supporters, and members of Three Steeples Church.

Zeke is survived by his nephew, Fred (Lisa) Degenhardt of Lewiston, Maine and extended family members. He was predeceased by his parents, Ruby and Frederick, and his brother Edwin. At Zeke’s request no services will be held.

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