Finger Lakes Daily News Dr. Andrew C. Rice Dies - Late Winemaker a Key in Figure Lakes History

"I was proud to know him and call him friend...I think that it's important for us to remember that the Finger Lakes wine industry didn't begin in 1976. There is a rich history of people and wineries that we should always honor." Tim benedict, VP of Winemaking at Hazlitt Red Cat Cellars (Thanks for photo)

I couldn't agree more with Tim. - C. DeVito

Dr. Andrew C. Rice

Finger Lakes Daily News

1/18/2013 6:41:29 AM

PENN YAN - Dr. Andrew C. Rice, age 88, passed away peacefully on Wednesday (January 16, 2013), with loving family at his side.

Calling hours will be from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday (January 19) at Weldon Funeral Home. Funeral will be held at the First United Methodist Church on Sunday (January 20) at 1:45 p.m. A private burial will be in Lakeview Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice .

We are all richer for having known Andy; he will be greatly missed.

He was born in Lewisburg, Penn. to Dr. John and Ruth Rice, and attended Bucknell University. He served his country in the Army during WWII and received two purple hearts. He met Elaine Weger, the love of his life, at a USO dance at Camp McCoy in Wisconsin, where she was a USO hostess. Their love affair continued for more than 65 years, and has been an inspiration to their family and friends. Andy received his doctorate in microbiology from Cornell University in 1953, and ultimately retired from the Taylor Wine Company as Vice President of Production. 

He was an active member of the "American Society of Enologists," the " American Society for Enology and Viticulture," the "American Wine Society" and received many awards and honors as a scientist, winemaker, and educator. He received the "Silver Beaver Award" for his distinguished service in the Boy Scouts of America. He was also a very active member of the Penn Yan United Methodist church for many years, serving as trustee and in many other capacities. Family and faith were of the utmost importance to him. Andy was well-loved and respected in his community, always ready to help others and known for his wonderful laugh, kind words, and positive outlook.

Andy is survived by his beloved Elaine; their five children, their spouses, numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and a sister, Martha Reed of Lewisburg, Penn. His children are Judy Stewart of Clay, N.Y., Jan Lounsberry of Penn Yan; Hal Rice of Troy, Ill., Howie Rice of Wausau, Wis., and Pahl Rice of Jewett City, Conn.

Friends may sign the guestbook at WeldonFuneralHome.com