Richard (Rick) E. Bujold
Richard (Rick) E. Bujold, age 83, of Tupper Lake, passed away on Wednesday, May 27, 2026. A graveside service will be held at St. Alphonsus Cemetery, 57 Hosley Ave, Tupper Lake on Friday, June 5, 2026 at 11:30 a.m. No reception will follow.
Rick was born July 6, 1942, in Tupper Lake, eldest son of Edmond and Frances Bujold. He completed his education in Tupper Lake and later served in the United States Army, receiving an honorable discharge in 1968.
Rick went on to become a licensed electrician, working the majority of his long career for O’Connell Electric of Rochester, N.Y., was a 58-year member of the I.B.E.W., and was known by his employers and all that knew him for his exceptional work ethic.
Rick was also a licensed firearms dealer and lifelong, active member of the NRA. He was widely known for his avid love of reading and longtime support of the local library, serving on the Tupper Lake Public (Goff-Nelson Memorial) Library Board of Trustees. Rick also thoroughly enjoyed traveling and adventuring near and far with his wife, Kelly.
Most of all, Rick deeply loved and cherished his family above all else. He felt most blessed and happiest in the presence of his wife, children, their spouses, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. At these times, he would say, “I’m the luckiest man in the world!”
Rick was predeceased by his parents, Edmond and Frances Bujold; brothers, Gary Bujold and Ronald Bujold; nephew Ronald Bujold Jr. and grandson, Jaycee Carson.
He is survived by his wife, Kelly Bujold; children Sharon (George) Carson of Rome, N.Y.; Deborah (Scott) Beaudette; Michael (Tawnya) Bujold; Matthew (Allison) Bujold, and Monica (Derek) Foote, all of Tupper Lake; his grandchildren Keira (Carson) Fleming, Kaitlyn Beaudette, Tylar Shore, Noah Carson, Emelia Foote, Jacob Foote, step grandchildren Ryker, Rilley, Fox, and Fabien Bujold, his great-grandchildren Audrey Fleming and Murphie Jane Shore, sisters, Cynthia Sauvegeau, Darlene Bujold, and Sandra Annette; and many, many nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank the staff at Adirondack Medical Center for their excellent and compassionate care.
Rick will be deeply missed and remembered by all.
Louis J. Benware
We gather here to bid farewell to a remarkable figure, Louis J Benware, born on June 5, 1932 in the humble town of Piercefield. Louis was a man of many virtues, a beacon of light in the lives of those who knew him.
His journey came to a peaceful end on May 23, 2026.
Louis served in the United States Army as a medic in the Korean war from 1952-1954. He was also a dedicated mechanic, a profession he took pride in and served in for six years at Burns News Auto Mechanic. But beyond his profession, Louis was a passionate outdoorsman who found solace and peace in nature. He loved walking, fishing, and camping, often sharing these moments with his family and friends. The crown jewel of his affection was Mount Arab in Tupper Lake, a place he held dear to his heart, just like his great-granddaughter Selena, who was the apple of his eye. Louis's life was enriched by a large family of great-grandchildren and great great-grandchildren, each of whom he loved dearly and celebrated joyfully.
Louis leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness. He is survived by his daughters Judy Laplant, Lois (Thomas) Sullivan, Brenda (Kenneth) Arthur, Jean (Walter) Kennedy; grandchildren James Seymour, Wally Kennedy, Vicki Marques, Brian Kennedy, Correnia Rice, Stacy Papineau, Shawn Benware, Becky North, Reggie Laplant Jr., Dominic Dobynes, Chris Dobynes, Patrick Dobynes; great-granddaughter Selena Kennedy. His brothers Roy and Arthur Benware also survive him.
Louis was preceded in death by his loving wife Ruth, his parents Mendoza and Madeline Benware, his siblings Kenneth, Lester, Walter Benware, Theresa Payrot, Dorothy Bush, and his children John Benware and Gail Benware, and son-in-law Reginald Laplant.
The graveside service for Louis will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at 11:15 am EDT at Saint Alphonsus Cemetery, Tupper Lake, New York. As we bid him farewell, let us remember his life as a testament to love, dedication, and compassion. In the words of Maya Angelou, "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." And Louis made us all feel loved, cherished, and valued.
We invite you to share your memories, stories, and photographs of Louis on his memorial page.
Each shared memory serves as a tribute to his life and a comfort to those he leaves behind. His story continues in each of us, and together we will cherish and remember him.
Joan Dwight Brown, 94
Joan Dwight Brown, 94, of Athens, Alabama passed away Sunday, April 26, 2026.
She was born in Tupper Lake, to Edwin ‘Roy” and Mary Cote Dwight. She is preceded in death by her parents and husband, Donald Brown.
Survivors include one daughter, Alicia Rouleau (Guy); three sons Raymond (Claire), Douglas (Darby), and Steven (Alison); nine grandchildren, Zachary, Addison, Angelica, James, Christopher, Matthew, Allison, Emma and Jacob; and several great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Mrs. Brown worked in Human Resources at Sunmount Developmental Center for over 25 years.
Her faith in God was unwavering and she loved her family above all else.
Joan loved being outdoors.
In lieu of flowers, she requested you consider a donation to the Make a Wish Foundation.
Celebration of Life: Wilfred “John” Lanthier
A celebration of life will be held in loving memory of Wilfred “John” Lanthier on Friday, June 12 from 2p.m. to 5p.m. at the VFW Post 3120 on Park Street.
Family members and friends will gather that afternoon to share their favorite memories of John, a very popular guy here, and to laugh and cry together as they remember this wonderful man, who will be greatly missed.
John Lamica
John Lamica, a man of great wit and adventurous spirit, was born on February 11, 1959, in Tupper Lake
His zest for life was infectious, touching everyone who had the privilege of crossing his path. From his early years, John showcased a unique blend of daring and humor that remained a defining trait throughout his life.
John's adventurous side was most evident in his love for outdoor activities. An excellent downhill skier, he relished the thrill of speed. He was also an avid golfer, a skilled fisherman, and a dedicated biker who owned the Tupper Lake Bike Shop.
John's professional journey was as remarkable as his personal life. A dedicated healthcare professional, he retired from Sunmount, Tupper Lake, where his wit and dedication were deeply valued.
He married the love of his life, Diana, in a beautiful ceremony at the Little White Chapel in Las Vegas on June 13, 2007. Their bond was an inspiring testament to their shared love and commitment.
John is survived by his beloved wife, Diana Lamica; his daughter, Emily (Eric) Churco; brother, Alan Lamica; sisters, Anne (Glenn) Bedore and Jeanne Lamica. He was preceded in death by his parents, Irvin and Rita Lamica; and his sister Linda Mary Lamica.
A celebration of John's life will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at Frary Funeral Home, Tupper Lake. Calling hours will begin at 11 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 1 pm.
John was a man who left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew him. His stories, laughter, and adventurous spirit will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Please join us in celebrating his life by sharing your memories and photos of John on the memorial page.
Kim Susan Delair
Kim Susan Delair, 68, of Tupper Lake, New York, passed away on April 27, 2026.
Born on May 13, 1957, Kim was the beloved daughter of Hubert and Joan Anne Delair. She was a devoted sister to Lynn Curry and Robert Delair, and a loving mother to her daughter, Mikayla O'Connor.
Kim's greatest joy in life was her role as a grandmother to Rory
Darrah and Kip Darrah.
She dedicated herself wholeheartedly to caring
for her grandchildren each and every day, a role she cherished deeply.
Her love for them was constant and unwavering, and her presence in
their lives was a gift beyond measure.
Kim spent 32 years as a Registered Nurse at Sunmount, where she served with compassion and dedication. Her commitment to caring for others extended far beyond her career-it was at the very core of who she was.
She will be remembered as a selfless, loving, and kind-hearted person who always put others before herself. Her warmth, strength, and
nurturing spirit touched the lives of all who knew her.
Kim's memory will live on in the hearts of her family and all those
fortunate enough to have known her.
David Madore, 98
David Madore, 98, passed away peacefully on April 14, 2026, in Naples, Florida. He was born on September 17, 1927, in Tupper Lake, to Wilfred and Melvina Madore.
Dave lived a life grounded in devotion—to his family, his work, and the community he proudly called home for many years.
He graduated from Tupper Lake High School, and dedicated his professional life to the Tupper Lake Central School District, where he served as Head of Transportation and Custodial Services. His strong work ethic and sense of responsibility left a lasting impression on those who worked alongside him. He retired in 1986, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and pride in his work.
Dave married the former Kathleen Lapier on August 5, 1950. They celebrated 75 years of marriage in 2025.
He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Kathleen, his daughter, Donna Tuite, and her husband Edward; his grandson, Patrick Tuite and his wife Jessica; and his granddaughter, Megan Perrotti and her husband Joe. Dave’s greatest joy came from his role as a great-grandfather to Julian Tuite, Colin Tuite, and Theo Perrotti, who were truly the lights of his life. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will cherish his memory.
David was preceded in death by his parents, Wilfred and Melvina Madore, and his sister and brother-in-law, Jeannette and Sonny Gillis.
He will be remembered for his quiet strength, his steadfast nature, and the deep love he held for his family. His presence brought comfort and consistency, and his legacy lives on in the generations he so dearly loved.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Fuller Funeral Home, East Naples. Services will be held at a later time.
Joanne M. Jones-Russell
Joanne M. Jones-Russell (LaFave), 88, passed away April 18, 2026 surrounded by family after courageously battling cancer. She was a lifelong resident of Tupper Lake, firstborn of three girls to Leo and Florence (Ayotte) LaFave on June 29, 1937. Although she spent many years of her life in Central Square, N.Y., Tupper Lake was always “home.”
Joanne held dear her love for music which began as a little girl who harmonized and played the piano and guitar with her sisters, Colleen and Carol. The height of family gatherings, for the adults and children alike, included members from the LaFave, Reandeau, and Jones families playing various instruments while harmonizing favorite songs, a tradition which continues at reunions to this day. She reveled in singing in the church choir later in life. Her heart was made full whenever she listened to classic country, bluegrass, and gospel music.
Joanne’s most cherished part of life was her family. Her heart was filled with joy in their presence, especially the little ones. She thrived off welcoming guests to her home and delighted in her time with them swimming, boating, and fishing in the Raquette River. She enjoyed cooking and camping, and was unmatched when it came to doing it outdoors. She displayed this prowess on every adventure, cooking up meals like venison or roasted chicken over an outdoor fire, even in the middle of winter. Her passion was making guests feel welcome, and she did so with a generous heart and warm smile.
As a child, Joanne attended Holy Ghost Academy. After graduating from Tupper Lake High School in 1955, Joanne married her high school sweetheart, Eugene C. Jones. Together they enjoyed raising six children while camping, fishing, cooking, canning, and gardening.. They treasured their small farm with chickens, pigs, a pony, and a goat. She and Eugene enjoyed time together at the Tupper Lake Moose Club and VFW while Eugene played with local musicians there. They remained married for 49 years until Eugene’s passing.
After attending business school early on in Syracuse, NY, she was employed in the secretarial field in various places of business throughout her life. In her over 25 years of service working for the state of New York, Joanne’s occupations included secretary to the principal at Paul V. Moore High School in Central Square, secretary to the director of the Theatre Department at SUNY College at Oswego, and secretary to the Superintendent at Adirondack Correctional Facility, before finally retiring from Camp Gabriels Correctional Facility in 1999.
In 2005, Joanne was remarried to Robert “Budd” Russell. Their favorite pastime was dancing at local venues, and they were the “talk of the town” out on the dance floor. In later years, they enjoyed watching Raquette River roll by from their swing as they gazed out at Budd’s famous flowers, which added to the ambience of the beautiful Tupper Lake scenery.
Joanne is survived by her children, Timothy Jones (Cato), John (Donna) Jones (Parish), James Jones (Tupper Lake), Anne (Andrew) Michaelis (Mexico), and Catherine (Mark) Roberts (Central Square); her grandchildren, Jessica Jones (Richlands, NC), LeAnn Jones (Greensboro, NC), Shane (Jessica) Jones (Brewerton), Matthew (Andria) Jones (Brewerton), Ashley (Joe) Nadeau (Parish), Christopher Jones (Parish), Jeremy Barnes (Brewerton), Kristie (Nick) Hancock (Watertown), Mitchell (Bethany) Jones (Tupper Lake), Shannon Michaelis (Mexico), Erica (Andrew) Witherell (Cicero), and Michael (Woobin) Gaff (North Syracuse); and numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her husbands, Eugene Jones and Robert “Budd” Russell; her oldest son, David (Colleen) Jones; her parents, Leo and Florence LaFave; and her sisters, Colleen O’Hara and Carol Fleming/McGuire.
Friends and family are encouraged to share their memories of Joanne at the Frary Funeral Home website, www.fraryfuneralhome.com.
Colyn G. Webber
Colyn G. Webber passed away on April 23, 2026 after a short illness at his grandson’s home in Piercefield, where he lived.
Colyn was born February 18, 1941 in Niagara Falls N.Y. to Clinton and Helen (McSween) Webber.
He was the youngest of six children. He graduated from LaSalle Sr. High School in Niagara Falls, N.Y., then graduated from Ithaca College, where he was editor of the yearbook. Colyn’s father and grandfather built a family camp on Raquette River near Piercefield. His first trip to the camp was when he was a baby and he spent many years after. His love for the mountains started early. His parents in 1960 bought a beautiful log cabin next to the original family camp on the Raquette.
Colyn’s first jobs in the area was tending bar at Dumas’ in Childwold, N.Y. and also several nights at the Iroquois Hotel.
In September, 1968 he married Donna Drew of Piercefield and they had one daughter Marni Webber in 1972.
Colyn worked for LaValley and Wolf Oil in Tupper Lake, as office manager and then Augsbury Corp. as area manager for this company in Jim Larkin’s office after Jim Larkin’s retirement.
In 1981 Colyn and his wife bought the Town Pub in Piercefield, then in 1984 Colyn worked for Department of Corrections at its Ogdensburg Correctional Facility. He worked as Account Clerk there and later in recreation and also as Inmate Grievance Supervisor.
Colyn was also an avid reader who especially loved the history of the Adirondack mountains. He also enjoyed cooking and sharing meals with his family and friends.
Colyn was a fireman for 52 years for the Piercefield Volunteer Fire Company. He was also a treasurer for over 20 years and short term as chief of the Fire Department.
He was predeceased by his parents Clinton and Helen Webber; his wife, Donna (Drew) Webber; his daughter Marni (Webber) Wilcox; his sisters, Jocelyn Woodcock, Rosalyn Butler and, Niela Smith; his brothers Roland Webber, Harley Webber; his sister-in-law Diane (Drew) Trombley; his brother-in-law Frank Drew and his father-in-law Harland Drew.
Colyn is survived by his grandson Steven Webber; his great grandson Harper Webber; his granddaughter Nicole Wilcox; two stepsisters Elaine (Leo) Sarazen and Patty Reandeau; his close family friend Amanda Phillips and many nieces and nephews.
Following Colyn’s cremation there will be a graveside service at Gale Cemetery on May 5th, at 11:00 AM
Arrangements are with Frary Funeral Home in Tupper Lake, NY
Death Notice: Joanne Jones-Russell
The Tupper Lake Free Press has received word this week of the passing of Joanne Jones-Russell on April 18, 2026. She was 88. Mrs. Russell was a life long resident of Tupper Lake.
A full obituary will appear in next weeks edition.
Services will be held at Frary Funeral Home on Cliff Ave., Tupper Lake.
Joseph P. Bailey
Joseph P. Bailey, 87, of Wheeling Avenue and formerly of Tupper Lake, passed away, April 9, 2026. He was born March 14, 1939, son of John J. and Rachel (Pinell) Bailey. Joe married the former Shirley Drew on July 29, 1961 in Tupper Lake. Together they raised their three children in Tupper Lake and moved to Plattsburgh for their latter years. Shirley predeceased him only a few months ago on January 25, 2026. Joe enlisted in the United States Air Force and was Honorably Discharged in 1957. He worked at Drapers in Tupper Lake for 17 years and then went on to be a healthcare giver at Sunmount for over 21 years until his retirement. Joe enjoyed hunting and fishing, and especially archery where he won many awards and was a member of the Tupper Lake Archery Club. He also enjoyed bowling, traveling, and loved his time playing cribbage with friends weekly. Joe was kind and gentle soul who loved to spend time with his family. Survivors include his sons, Alan Bailey and his wife Michele and Steven Bailey; daughter, Donna Demers and companion Joe; grandchildren, Carrie (Doug) Day, Jason Bailey, Michael Bailey, and Andrew Demers; five great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Joe was predeceased by his parents; his wife, Shirley; and siblings George, Stanley, Gerard, Paul, Lionell, Georgette, Mary Rose, and Yvonne. Services will be private and held at the convenience of the family. Donations in his memory may be made to the Third Age Adult Day Center in Plattsburgh, or the Fitzpatrick Cancer Center. Those wishing to share a photo, story, or condolence with the family are invited to visit www.rwwalkerfh.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to R.W. Walker Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 69 Court Street, Plattsburgh, NY.
Francis “Frank” Gregory Camelo
Funeral Services have been set for Frank Camelo who passed away at Elderwood of Uihlen, Lake Placid on Wednesday December 24 after a short period of declining health.
Frank was born on January 4, 1930 in Tupper Lake, the youngest child of Dominick and Maria (Tomasi) Camelo Sr.
Funeral arrangements are in care of the Fortune-Keough Funeral Home in Saranac Lake.
A Mass of Christian Burial with military honors took place at 11:00 AM on Friday April 17, 2026 at St. Bernard’s Church in Saranac Lake with the Rev. Martin Cline officiating. An Elks service took place just prior to the mass at the church.
A reception immediately followed the mass from 12:30 PM to 3 PM at the Saranac Lake Elks Club in Saranac Lake.
Memorial donations may be sent to either St. Bernard's Catholic Church, 27 St Bernard St, Saranac Lake or Saranac Lake Adult Center 136 Broadway Saranac Lake. Family and friends can also share their condolences and memories at fortunekeoughfuneralhome.com.
Ronald L. Reome
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ronald L. "Rocket" Reome, age 82 on 04/10/26 at the Adirondack Medical Center. Ronald left peacefully with his family by his side.
Ronald was born on November 5, 1943 to the late Leon and Eula Reome in Bombay, NY. He graduated from Brushton Moira High School. From there Ronald joined the Army to serve his country. He met and married Patricia Straub and had two sons.
After the Army, Ronald moved back to the North Country and found a career with Citizen Advocates in Malone. He met and married the late Joanne (Andrews) Reome who predeceased him in 2002. After retirement, Ronald eventually moved to Tupper Lake where he spent his late years with his live in companion, Pauline Staves.
Ronald enjoyed golfing, bowling and cheering on his Baltimore Ravens and Orioles insisting every Sunday "They're going to be good this year" and the Montreal Canadiens.
Ronald is survived by his sons, Mark R. (Suzette) Reome of Tupper Lake and Todd M. (Jannelle) Reome, of Brushton, his granddaughters Carissa Reome and Sara (David) Passino, three great grandchildren, his live in companion, Pauline Staves and many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.
Ronald was predeceased by his parents, a sister, Carol Norcross, brother David Reome, his first wife, Patricia Straub and second wife, Joanne Reome.
No service will be held per his wishes. Family encourages you to write a memory or share a photograph on his memorial page.
Donations can be made to the Tupper Lake Rescue Squad in his memory.
Patrick “Pat” Bentley, 83
Patrick “Pat” W. Bentley, a longtime resident of Tupper Lake, passed away at his home on March 17th, 2026, at the age of 83. Pat was born on April 9th, 1942, the son of Charles and Bernice (Burke) Bentley.
Pat graduated from Tupper Lake High School in 1960. He then moved on to achieve a bachelor's degree in economics from St. Lawrence University and later a masters in education from SUNY New Paltz.
Pat was a devoted public servant and was initially employed as a New York State Trooper. He spent four years patrolling in Raybrook, and then off of the NYS Thruway in Kingston, N.Y.
Pat would then transition his career into public school teaching where he taught both fifth and sixth grade for 33 years in the Saugerties Central School District.
Outside of work Pat enjoyed participating in local recreational sports. He was active in bowling and softball leagues in Tupper Lake, Saugerties and Kingston. Pat was an avid golfer throughout his years and always worked at improving his golf game. He was once quoted as saying “I don’t know why I bother to carry all these clubs, I hit everyone of them 150 yards.” More importantly, he enjoyed playing golf and other sports for the time it enabled him to spend with friends and family. Pat loved to meet people and could converse with anyone about sports. He was a strong follower of the NY Knicks, NY Rangers and St. Lawrence University Hockey teams, but loved his Dodgers. As an Alumni of St Lawrence University, he enjoyed cheering on the “Saints” and even earned himself the title of “Fan of the Year.” Once hockey was over, Baseball season was something he always looked forward to. He was a passionate Dodger fan throughout his lifetime. He grew up listening to Brooklyn Dodgers games on radio and bled Dodger Blue. Even upon their relocation to Los Angeles, he remained a devoted fan and would reiterate the Brooklyn Catch phrase “wait ‘til next year”. In his lifetime he was able to experience seeing his favorite team play at both Ebbets Field and Dodger Stadium. He routed for them through 20 World Series and was in attendance for game #2 of the 2018 World Series in Boston.
For those who knew Pat, he will be missed for the kindness and respect he showed to others. He had a way with words both on paper and through his sense of humor. He truly enjoyed being able to make people laugh and smile. Pat cherished the time he was able to spend with his family and friends and he loved to reminisce about the many fond memories that were created over the years. His absence in our family will be deeply missed and his spirit will carry on in our hearts.
Pat is survived by his former wife, Judith Bentley, two beloved sons Eric and Bryan (Trisha) and three grandchildren he greatly adored: Hailey, Eliana and Kyle. He is predeceased by his parents, Charles and Bernice Bentley and brother, James.
A Celebration of his life will be announced and scheduled for a later date.
Kyle Mathew Quesnel, 36
We sadly announce the untimely death of Kyle Mathew Quesnel, 36, of Lindsay Ave., Tupper Lake, who died unexpectedly at his home on Wednesday, March 11. His death was attributed to a brain bleed caused by an aneurisym. He was born in Saranac Lake September 15, 1989, the son of Pamela (Bourque) and Glenn Quesnel, and was a lifelong resident of this village. A 2007 graduate of Tupper Lake High School, he was married to the former Kelly Tarbox on March 30, 2013 and was employed by Richards Logging up until his death. Shortly after the arrival of their third child his wife Kelly was diagnosed with cancer, and in spite of her courageous battle against that illness she passed away on April 30, 2019, at which time Kyle devotedly assumed the heartbreaking responsibility of a very young widower who dedicated these past seven years to raising his three beautiful children without their loving mother. He loved his wife and children immensely, caring for and supporting them always. Survivors include his children Mayson, Avarie and Cooper; his mother- Pamela (Tom) Fuller, Antwerp, N.Y.; his father- Glenn Quesnel, and Laurie Tucker, Hopewell Junction, NY; grandfather- Armand Bourque, Tupper Lake; grandmother- Theresa Quesnel, Malone; two uncles- Richard Parent, Roswell, Tx. and Raymond Parent, Alabama; one aunt- Debbie (Tony) Nadeau, Tupper Lake; one brother- Scott (Kristi) Quesnel; one sister-Kelly Quesnel and Jay Jannson, all of this village; a brother-in-law Chris (Erin) Tarbox, East Greenbush, N.Y., as well as a girlfriend- Taylor Smith, Saranac Lake and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his grandmother Darlene Bourque and grandfather- Lawrence Quesnel; two uncles- Ron Bourque and Ron Quesnel and his mother-in-law and father-in-law Dawn and Kevin Tarbox. Cremation followed and there will be no calling hours.
Richard Seafuse, 79
Richard Seafuse, 79, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2026 surrounded by his daughter Monique and partner Tina Merkle at the time of his passing. He was born on June 22, 1946, to Raymond and Winona Seafuse. Richard attended Watkins Glen High School in Watkins Glen, New York.
Richard was known for his strong work ethic and the pride he took in his craft. After school, he started his own painting business and spent many years working throughout Tupper Lake, New York, as well as in Connecticut, Wyoming, and New Mexico. Painting was not just his livelihood but something he truly enjoyed and took great pride in.
Outside of work, Richard enjoyed hands-on hobbies. He liked painting and spending time building and fixing things. One of his proudest accomplishments was building his own house.
Richard is survived by his daughter, Monique Seafuse (Sean Auclair) of Tupper Lake, New York; and his stepchildren: Billy Sexton (Asia Sampson) of Canton, New York; Daniel Merkle (Megan) of Vermontville, New York; and Dennis Merkle (Jessica) of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania.
He is also survived by his grandchildren: Gauge Lavalley, Garrett Lavalley, Cody Auclair, Jaden Merkle, Ezra Merkle, Scott Paull, and Lance.
Richard is further survived by his siblings: Virginia Ricks of Washington; Robert Seafuse and his wife, Sandy, of Tupper Lake; and Jeff Seafuse of Florida.
Richard will be remembered for his hardworking nature, his creativity with his hands, and the time he spent with his family. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Burial notice: Bette Lou Varden
Funeral service for Bette Lou Varden, who died on November 8 ,2025 will be June 20th, 11 a.m. at St. Alphonsus Church. Burial will be immediately following mass at St. Alphonsus cemetery. A Celebration of life will follow at the Tupper Lake Country Club.
Wilfred John Lanthier
With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Wilfred John Lanthier. John was born on October 4, 1931. He passed away on March 6, 2026, at the age of 94, surrounded by his loving family.
John was predeceased by his parents, Wilfred Lanthier and Gladys (Hunkins) Lanthier. Additionally, he was predeceased by his loving wife of 70 years, Naoma Lanthier (Stevens); his son, Wayne R. Lanthier; his brothers, George, Donald, and Robert Lanthier; and his son-in-law, Chip Perham.
John is survived by his sons, John (Becky) Lanthier of Ankeny, Iowa, and Alan (Lily) Lanthier of Hernando, Florida, and his daughter, Loretta Perham of Tupper Lake, NY. He is also survived by his sisters, Elenor, Rita, Linda, and Sue, and his brother, Isidore.
John had 11 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and numerous other family members.
John had a long history within the Tupper Lake community. Raised on a dairy farm, he was no stranger to hard work. A few of his varied occupations included 15 years at the Altamont Ice Cream Company.
He was a retired school bus driver, with over 25 years in the local school system. John was well known throughout the village for 40 years selling Christmas trees, 30+ years of light trucking, and various side jobs. He had a reputation as a hard-working, honest, and thoughtful person.
John will be most remembered for his smile, infectious positive attitude, and wonderful sense of humor. He was loved dearly by his family and friends and will be missed by all.
There will be a celebration of life at a later date at the family’s discretion.
Special appreciation and thanks to the staff of the Tupper Lake Center for their wonderful care and support.
Robert “Bob” Christy
Robert J. Christy of Tupper Lake passed away unexpectedly at his home on March 4, 2026. He was born on April 8, 1941 to Rita (Denis) and Walter Christy. On July 6, 1963, he married Mary Forkey, and together they raised four children in their hometown of Tupper Lake.
Bob spent his professional life running his own auto body shop, C&M Garage with his wife always by his side.
He enjoyed tractors, gardening, fishing, hunting and doing outdoor activities with his family. He also took great pride in his ability to grill a great steak over a wood fire.
Bob is survived by his wife Mary and his four children, Lynn (Matthew) Dabrowski of Canastota, N.Y., John (Gabriela) Christy of Ashburn, Va., Walter (Kathy) Christy of Tupper Lake and Christopher (Bernadette) Christy of Argyle, N.Y.
He was also blessed with seven grandchildren, Kailey Christy, CaraMarie Christy, Megan Christy, Benjamin Christy, Aidan Christy, April Dabrowski and Lily Christy and seven great-grandchlldren, Ryder, Brynn, Brady, Brooklyn, Blake, Iris and Tripp, as well as seven step-grandchildren.
He is also survived by his brother, James Christy of Tupper Lake, niece Nichole Christy and nephew Cory Christy.
Calling hours for Bob were held on Monday, March 9 from 11a.m. to 1p.m. at Frary Funeral Home, followed by a mass at St Alphonsus church at 2p.m.
The family requests that donations in Bob’s memory be made to the Tupper Lake Volunteer Ambulance and Emergency or St. Alphonsus Church.
Jeffrey Edward Madore, 56
Jeffrey Edward Madore, 56, of Saratoga Springs, New York, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, creativity, and a generous spirit that touched all who knew him.
Born on September 5, 1969, in Tupper Lake to Donna Jane and Edgar Madore Jr., Jeff grew up known for the care and pride he put into everything he touched. After high school, he built a successful business and became especially admired for his remarkable talent in decorating homes for the holidays—especially Christmas, his favorite season. His displays brought joy to countless families and reflected his meticulous eye for beauty.
Jeff found great comfort in the companionship of his dog, Charlie, whose presence filled his life with laughter and devotion. He also carried a deep and lasting love for his mother, Donna Jane, who passed away in 1994 with him by her side. Their memories remained a source of strength throughout his life.
Jeff is survived by his brothers, Gary (Treva) and their sons Garrett and Hunter; and Robert and his children Honna, Gage, Brock, and great-niece Adelia. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Donna Jane and Edgar Madore Jr.; by his Aunt Lynda Levesque; grandparents Ona and Louis Gillis; Uncle Marvin Madore; Aunts Tammy and Reta Madore; and grandparents Alice and Edgar Madore Sr.
Jeff will be remembered for his warm heart, his generosity, his love of the holidays, and the joy he brought to others through his thoughtful work. His smile and presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” —2 Timothy 4:7