Obituary of Lawrence Predmore

Lawrence "Tootie" Predmore of New Hampton, owner of Tootie's IV in New Hampton and a lifelong area resident, died on August 7, 2014 in Orange Regional Medical Center in Middletown. He was 85. The son of the late Leo and Myrtle Gould Predmore, he was born on November 9, 1928 in Middletown, New York. For 60+ years, Tootie was an iconic short order cook/grill man in Middletown, dedicating more than 6 days a week to his joy of cooking and socializing. Known for his sharp attire and passion for cars in his early years, he opened Tootie's I on North Street in the early 1960s. After two other store locations, Tootie's IV became his favorite spot next to his home in New Hampton that he shared with his devoted wife, Pat. To those who knew him, he loved to laugh, was ready to hear or tell a good joke, and always had lollipops behind the counter for the kids. Despite his occasional gruff exterior, he had a "determined" heart of gold and willingness to help others. Tootie was well known for his extensive Mickey Mouse memorabilia collection and enjoyed the excitement of the kids who viewed the display in his store, especially at Christmas time. He was twice featured in the Times Herald-Record for sharing both his 50th and 75th birthdays with the same birthdays of his favorite character, the original "Steamboat Willie." He will be fondly remembered by his coined phrase and menu item…JFB! He was a veteran of the U.S. Army having served during the Korean War. Survivors include his wife Patricia Predmore at home. His sons Todd Predmore and his wife Michele and Timm Predmore both of Middletown. His stepchildren Thomas Lane and his wife Kathy of Unionville; Debra Zeiger and her husband Steve of Northport, Florida and Donna Worden of Goshen. He is also survived by his grandchildren; great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brothers Lindley; Willard; Robert; George and Stanley Predmore. Visitation hours will be held on Monday August 11, 2014 from 5-8 P.M. at the Ralston-Lippincott-Hasbrouck-Ingrassia Funeral Home, Inc. 72 West Main St. Middletown, New York. Services and burial will be held at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Assn. Arrangements by Ralston-Lippincott-Hasbrouck-Ingrassia Funeral Home, Inc. 343-6023 or www.ocfuneralhomes.com.