Civic leader Suppeland dead at 56

CORTLAND – Bernard "Ben" Suppeland, a pillar of the Cortland community for more than 30 years, died early Sunday at Kindred Hospital in Sycamore. He was 56.

Suppeland resigned just weeks ago from his position as town trustee, citing his failing health, Town President Bob Seyller said Tuesday. He had served the town as trustee, president, treasurer and planning commission member. He was chief of the local fire department for about 15 years and was a charter member of the Cortland Lions Club. He also served on the board of the Cortland United Methodist Church and in several other local, state and county organizations. Several years ago, the town named a park after him.

"It's a list that goes on and on and on," Cortland Trustee Chuck Lanning said of Suppeland's accomplishments. Lanning has been on the town board since 1994 and served during Suppeland's terms as trustee and town president.

"It's a tremendous loss to the community," Lanning said. "Most of his life was dedicated to the town in one form or fashion."

The cause of Suppeland's death could not be confirmed at press time, but friends referred to several health problems in recent months.

Seyller said Suppeland's death was a blow to the town.

"The man did a lot of stuff," he said. "He held every office in town."

Friend Steve Vidmar met Suppeland about 16 years ago. He served with him on the fire department and in the Lions Club, and also worked with him on several political campaigns.

"We're going to miss him on poker night," Vidmar said. "We're going to put a black cloth on the chair where he sat."

Vidmar recalled Suppeland asking him to join the fire department. The two were acquaintances at the time, he said, and Suppeland approached him one evening while the two were having a drink at the same bar.

"He said, 'Why don't you come and join the fire department?'" Vidmar recalled. "I said, 'I'm not really in shape for that.' He said, 'Well, you're breathing, aren't you?'"

Vidmar said he would miss Suppeland's "laid-back" personality.

"He took everything in stride. Nothing ever upset him too much," he said.

Lanning also remembered Suppeland's unflappable demeanor, even when town board meetings would become heated.

"He was always so easygoing. He never seemed to get excited," Lanning said. "He just had so many friends. I'm really going to miss his personality."

Know more

A memorial service and celebration of life for Bernard "Ben" Suppeland have been tentatively scheduled for July 8.

Check the obituary page of the Daily Chronicle over the next few days for more information on services.