Dr. Gary Preiser, Walton Doctor for Over 35 Years, Dies at 75

Dr. Gary Preiser, 75, of Walton, NY, born May 27, 1944, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones on Saturday, May 23, after a long illness.

Gary grew up in Middletown, NY. He graduated from the University of Rochester with a BS in Chemistry. His education continued at New York University Grossman School of Medicine, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, where he completed his pediatric training.

Dr. Preiser came to Walton in 1974 as a pediatrician with UHS Delaware Valley Hospital. During his career, he served as an officer with the Medical Society of the State of New York, president of the medical staff at the hospital, and medical director and lead physician for the primary care centers. He was the recipient of the Sally Dean Award for exceptional service. Over the course of his professional life, Dr. Preiser cared for three generations of children in Delaware County. In addition to his attentiveness to and concern for his patients, he will be remembered for his long ponytail, roller skating and skiing to work, wearing sandals and socks, coming to his office on Halloween in costume, and for painting faces at hospital events and murals to brighten up the walls of his office and the maternity unit.

After 35 years, Gary retired from his medical practice and remained in Walton as a dedicated and energetic community member. Some of his notable volunteer service included Project Hope in Jamaica, community theater groups, Temple Beth El education program, Junior Great Books, Red Cross emergency assistance, Virgin Islands Environmental Resource Station, Lord’s Table Soup Kitchen, and he constructed several “Little Libraries” in Walton. He was also a member of Temple Beth El in Oneonta, NY.

For more on Dr. Presier's life as well as information on his funeral services please visit the Courtney Funeral Home