James Orin Cronk

James Orin “Jim” Cronk, of Mallory, NY, passed away on September 14, 2025.

Born on January 19, 1941, in Altmar, NY, Jim lived a life full of humor, heart, and grit.

He is survived by his loving wife, Barbara; his children Jimmy, Tammy, John, Jamie, Christopher, and Carrie; his honorary daughter, Lynn Lamphere; five grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; his brother, Steven Cronk; his sister, Mary Gaffey; and countless nieces and nephews, many of whom looked up to him as a father figure. He was preceded in death by his son, Faron.

Jim will be remembered for his love of debating politics and old country music, bullhead fishing, a good joke, reading westerns, and his gift for “wheeling and dealing.” A founding member of the Oswego County ATV Club, he also proudly hosted The Saturday Night Hayride as “The Country Squire” on WSCP radio, where he was part-owner. He was the longtime owner and operator of Mallory Lumber & Steel, and he was also renowned as an auctioneer, with his lively biweekly food auctions serving as much entertainment for the community as they were a marketplace. Beyond that, he was a certified paralegal and remained a lifelong learner.

A character in every sense of the word—when they made Jim Cronk, they broke the mold. He will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Mallory Wesleyan Church, followed by a memorial service from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. A Celebration of Life party will directly follow at Benny’s Auctions, 2124 US Rt 11, Hastings, NY

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