Richard P. Dresser

Richard P. “Dick” Dresser, 85, of Arkport passed away Wednesday afternoon (December 12, 2018) at home, surrounded by his family.

Born in Canaseraga, NY on July 13, 1933, he was the son of Cleveland & Doris (Pierce) Dresser.

Dick was a graduate of Canaseraga Central School (class of 1951). He later served eight years as a member of the US Army National Guard.

On August 18, 1962 he married Betty Kame and was proud of the fact he was married to his beautiful bride for 56 years.

Dick made his career working for Greyhound Bus Company as a driver and also a trainer. He loved to drive and teach people how to drive. Dick prided himself on being a professional driver and even drove himself to his last doctor’s appointment. He had previously worked for Allegany County Sheriff’s department as a deputy in the Canaseraga area.

An incredible wood worker and artist, Dick could make anything. If he didn’t have a tool he would simply make a tool to finish his projects. He was most proud of his professional motorcycle racing career where he held titles as both a United States and Canadian professional hill climbing champion in the late 50’s. Dick collected antique motorcycles and loved his 1956 Triumph the most. He was proud of his son Steven’s racing career and cherished the memories they made racing together as they passed the racing “bug” and torch to John Koester who has made him very proud.

In addition to his parents, Richard was preceded in death by his brother Dean; and also his brother-in-law, Larry Kame; his sister-in-law, Muriel Kame. His beloved dog, “Climber” (a shelter dog) will be buried with him, forever guarding his best friend.

Dick is survived by his wife of 56 years Betty (Kame) Dresser; his son, Steven (Nichole) Dresser of Hammondsport; his daughter, Wendy (Mark) Dresser-Recktenwald of Arkport; his grandchildren, Danica Dresser, Hannah Dresser, Justin (Kyleigh) Recktenwald, Cody Recktenwald; his extended family, Gordy and Julie Koester, Jenna Koester, Nicolle (Nate) Matthews, Nolan, Nessa & Nevelyn, John (Brittany) Koester and his cat, Ernie. He is also survived by his in-laws, Vincent and Patricia Kame, Irene Tychi and Joanne Kame along with several nieces and nephews. He was always extremely proud of his family.

The family of Richard P. “Dick” Dresser will receive friends on Monday from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY. Funeral & committal services will be held at the conclusion of calling hours at 6:00 PM with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating. Burial will be in Heritage Hill Cemetery, Arkport, at the convenience of the family.

Richard’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorials contributions in his name be made to the FROSTY FUND, Hornell Area Humane Society, 7649 Industrial Park Road, Hornell 14843. Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.

The family of Richard P. “Dick” Dresser wishes to extend our sincere thanks to Thelma Canfield who provided unconditional support during this time, Dr. Virginia Shepard, and Care First/Hospice. His grand-daughter-in-law, Kyleigh was the best “princess” ever and took exceptional care of him.

2 Responses to “Richard P. Dresser”

  1. John Mistretta says:

    Dick, was a great guy, started me in the hillclimb sport. He will be truly missed. Rest In Peace.

  2. Mark swem says:

    What a great dad, I only knew him a short time but reminder he was always friendly. Sorry to hear you’ve lost a crew member of your hillclimbing team.