Retired U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Richard T. Gitsham, 71

SCHENECTADY, N.Y. - Retired U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Richard T. Gitsham, of Schenectady, died Wednesday, May 7, 2008, at St. Claire's Hospital after a brief illness. He was 71.

He was born in Ballston Spa, N.Y.

Mr. Gitsham was a graduate of Central Park Junior High School and Nott Terrace High School.

He served 29 years with the U.S. Air Force with the rank of chief master sergeant. He served many years at Dover (Del.) Air Force Base.

After he retired, he joined the U.S. Postal Service and retired with 15 years of service.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara (Wylie) Gitsham, whom he married in 1956; three children, Deborah (Barry) Eberly of Dover, Douglas J. Gitsham and Scott T. Gitsham; a brother, Charles G. Gitsham Jr.; a sister, Claire (Don) Best; two grandchildren, Jessica and Sarah Eberly, both of Dover; and several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, Charles and Helen Gitsham.

Funeral services are 11 a.m. today at Daly Funeral Home, 242 McClellan St., Schenectady, where friends may call from 9 a.m.

Interment with full military honors will be at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of choice.