Obituary of Bradley K. Eldred

November 28, 1944 — June 25, 2025

Groton

Bradley K. Eldred, 80, of Groton, passed away unexpectedly at home on June 25, 2025.

He was born on November 28, 1944 in DeRuyter, NY, a son of the late Leo and Arla (Lockwood) Eldred. He was a graduate of Groton Central School, and served with the US Army during the Vietnam War and was awarded a National Defense Service Medal.

Brad was a lifelong mechanic, working for many years with the Rightmire family at R & H Pontiac in Groton. Brad was instrumental to R & H’s Arctic Cat snowmobile franchise. He later worked at Joe Hora’s automotive garage and Groton Auto Supply, and in later years tended to the maintenance and groundskeeping at Groton Rural Cemetery.

He was a retired member of the Citizens Hook & Ladder Co. #3 of the Groton Fire Department and served on both the Groton Village Board of Trustees and the Village Police Commission. He was also a member of Carrington-Fuller Post 800 American Legion and the Ridge Runners Snowmobile Club. His interests in mechanics and vehicles reflected throughout his life.

He is survived by his wife of 19 years, JoAnn Eldred; his children: Kent (Marcy), Kory (Stacey), and Kellie Eldred; eight grandchildren; brothers: Wayne (Sandy) and Vaughn (Terry) Eldred; and a sister, Brenda Metzgar.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a brother, Ricky Eldred, and sister, Sharon Carr.

Calling hours will be held from 5:00-7:00 PM on Wednesday, July 2 at the Shurtleff Funeral Home, 103 Lincoln Avenue, Groton, concluding with military honors accorded by Post 800 American Legion.

Memorial contributions, in lieu of flowers, are recommended to the Groton Police Benevolent Assn. (PBA), Groton Fire Department Ambulance Fund, or to Post 800 American Legion, Groton: all organizations that Brad held in his affection. Online condolences may be shared with his family at www.shurtleffservices.com.