Obituary of Alan E. Sterling

CANASTOTA . . . Alan Edward Sterling, 79, surrounded by his loving family, passed away on December 17, 2024, following a courageous battle with a variety of health conditions. He was born on March 12, 1945, and was the second son of the late William C. Sterling and Elizabeth (Lewis) Sterling. Alan grew up on and helped to run the family farm on Sterling Road in Oneida Valley, prior to moving outside of Canastota to reside for many years on Bruce Road, where he and his brother, Bill, owned and operated a dairy farm for many years. He was a 1963 graduate of Oneida High School, and later received a bachelor's degree in history from Utica College of Syracuse University. Alan, a.k.a. 'Big Al,' a fierce competitor, played basketball for both Oneida High School and Utica College where he excelled in both play and sportsmanship, earning Tri-Valley league MVP while in high school. He also played for many years in the local municipal league helping mentor younger players. Alan was also very musical in his youth, playing the tuba in the Oneida school's band, and also playing bass guitar in a local musical group. As a proud direct descendent of Palatine German immigrants circa 1700, and Revolutionary and Civil War soldiers, Alan expressed his love and passion for those time periods by offering and contributing to several scholarly books, papers, and videos. It was his desire to 'set the record straight' by delving into historical, personal, and battleground facts, previously overlooked in other publications. His papers are available and distributed by local historical societies, including the book he wrote "Defenders of Liberty." Alan is survived by two daughters, Brenna (John) Borgognoni of Mt. Vernon, WA, and Kara (Anthony) Bach of McHenry, IL, and a son, Christopher (Michelle) Sterling of Warners, NY; his brother, Rhys ( Joyce) Sterling of Pullman, WA, five grandchildren, Sean Sterling, Amelia Sterling, Kendra Borgognoni, Trenton Borgognoni, and Adalyn Bach; as well as several great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. He is also survived by many dear friends and history buffs he acquired over his lifetime. Alan was predeceased by his older brother, William T Sterling, who passed away on September 9, 2022. Alan will be forever loved and remembered as a kind and generous soul. He was so very proud of his children and grandchildren. His family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks and immense gratitude to Jan, Rick, Laurel, Billy, Jim, Mark, Becky, Danielle, Marie, and all others who reached out to him with love and friendship over the years. For those wishing to pay their respects to Alan, calling hours will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at the J. Homer Ball Funeral Home, Inc., 201 James Street, Canastota, with a funeral service to follow. The Rev. William M. Wilcox will officiate. Burial will be in Oneida Valley Cemetery, Canastota. In his memory, contributions may be made to the Clockville United Methodist Church, PO Box 15, Clockville, NY 13043, with envelopes available at the funeral home.