Wilfred Ground, Jr.

Wilfred Ground, Jr. affectionately known as Duner or Willie, passed away peacefully on December 26, 2024. Born on August 9, 1953, in Batavia, NY, to the late Wilfred and Rubena (Logan) Ground. A devoted husband, he was widowed from his wife Beatrice Ground, who preceded him in death, and was a cherished father and grandfather.

Willie was a proud and dedicated mechanic at NFTA in Buffalo, New York, before his retirement. He had an unwavering love for sports, with a particular fondness for basketball and lacrosse. He took great pleasure in playing horse shoes and honing his woodworking skills. He was also a proud member of the Snipe Clan of the Tonawanda Seneca Indian Reservation, where he was deeply loved. 

Wilfred leaves behind a loving family, including his children Yostah Vance, Wah-A-Gah Ground, Willie Ground, and Scarlett Ground. He was a proud grandfather of 10 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. He is survived by his siblings Janet (Darwin) Hill, Charlene (Alden) Sundown, Annette Tahamont, Mardell Sundown, Rhonda (Thomas) Harjo, Randy Ground, and Tina Ground. Wilfred was preceded in death by his parents, Wilfred Sr. and Rubena Ground, his wife, Beatrice Ground, his siblings, Maxine Parker, Dorothea “Snookie” Sundown, Janice Hallett, Brenda Sundown, Ricky Ground, Vicki Standsblack, and Freddie “Juggie” Ground. 

Friends and family called on Sunday, December 29, 2024 at 349 Council House Road, Basom, NY where a Funeral Service was held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, December 30, 2024 with a Long House Service following at 2:00 p.m. A Burial will follow at the Long House Cemetery. To share memories and condolences with Willie’s family please visit rossakron.com.