Richard A. Wentworth

Richard Wentworth, 93, of Lansing, New York, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, in the house he built and where he raised his family, on October 14, 2024. He is survived by his children Robert Wentworth (Kate Gilligan), Karen Stearns (Stephan), Daniel Wentworth (Patti); his siblings David Wentworth (Christine) and Mary McDaniel (Joseph); and grandchildren Lee and Sara Stearns, Lucas and Jacob Wentworth. He is predeceased by his wife Jean, to whom he was married for 67 years; and by his brothers Gordon and James Wentworth. Richard was born June 3, 1931, and grew up on the family farm in Amherst, Massachusetts. He attended the Stockbridge School of Agriculture, in Amherst, MA. He was a veteran of the Korean War, serving for two years in the Army Medical Core doing epidemiology work after the armistice. After his service, he attended the University of Massachusetts as an undergraduate and earned a PhD in Animal Husbandry from Cornell University. He worked at the Veterinary College at Cornell University for over 35 years, primarily as a research faculty member and graduate student advisor; he did a variety of animal research, ultimately focusing on reproductive physiology, including understanding premature labor. He enthusiastically supported his wife, children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews in sporting events and musical and academic pursuits. He gardened, sailed, and played volleyball and croquet. He was a long-time member of the First Congregational Church of Ithaca. He was a loving, devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, and grandfather. 

A committal service will be led by Rev. David Kaden at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, October 18, 2024, at Greensprings Natural Cemetery Preserve, 293 Irish Hill Road, Newfield. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Richard’s name may be directed to Doctors Without Borders.