Paul A. Richter, 84
Paul A. Richter, of Albany, retired New York State Trooper, passed on August 1, 2020.
Born May 1, 1936 in Woodside, Queens, N.Y., he was the son of the late Hans and Margaret (Wehinger) Richter.
He attended P.S. 152 and W.C. Bryant High School and graduated from L.I. Agricultural and Tech Institute (now SUNY Farmingdale). He also graduated from the New York State Police Academy and the NTC Polygraph School.
Paul served in the U.S. Army from 1956 to 1958, retiring with honorable discharge.
On May 1, 1960 Paul married Marie Claire Penaud from Niort, France at the St. Jean the Baptiste Church, Manhattan, N.Y.
Paul entered the New York State Police on January 2, 1962. He had served in Troops C and B. He retired as a Zone Sergeant on disability as a result of an on-duty shooting incident in Lake Placid on September 30, 1973 during a traffic stop.
Shot three times, once in the neck area, it left him totally paralyzed from the waist down. After many months of combined excellent care at CVPH, Plattsburg, and an intensive rehabilitation program at Sunnyview Hospital, Schenectady, he was discharged able to ambulate with a cane and leg brace.
For seven months Paul was visited everyday by his devoted family, friends and members of the New York State Police…these visits kept his spirits high. Paul remembered that Christmas 1973 at Sunnyview when the staff asked his brother Carl to dress up as Santa Claus. Paul and his children did not recognize Carl as Santa.
Paul and his family lived in Tupper Lake at the time and moved to Albany in 1980 to get away from the severe winters. Paul always loved the Adirondacks and its people.
Paul was a life time member of the New York State Police PBA and the Association of Former NYS Troopers-Adirondack Chapter; a member of the Tupper Lake Mt. Arab Lodge 847, F. & A.M., Tupper Lake Moose Lodge 640, Albany Elks Lodge 49, IPA, American Association of Troopers, Italian-American Heritage Museum, Spinal Cord Society-Capital District Chapter, and the world famous Grump Club.
Paul received the NYSP “Brummer Award”, Troy Police PBA “Gold Shield Award”, Warriors on Wheels Award, Burke Rehabilitation-Research Program Citizen Award, and the Jefferson Award for Public Service.
Paul was a gubernatorial appointee by Gov. George Pataki to serve on the NYS Spinal Cord Injury Research Board, which he proudly served on for 16 years without monetary compensation. Paul always was appreciative of the assistance he received from fellow board member, Dr. Allen Carl, making it possible for him to attend each meeting.
After Pauls' injury, he directed his energy as an active advocate for the funding and research toward finding a cure for spinal cord injury paralysis. He was involved in the Spinal Cord Society Capital District Chapter’s annual research fund benefit for 30 years. He found pleasure when he was a volunteer driver for many years for the St. Peter's Hospital mobile meals with fellow volunteer, Eleanor Finkelstein.
Paul was the driving force and chairman behind the creation of the “Gray Rider Trooper” monument project which is in front of the New York State Police Academy and was dedicated on September 30, 1993, exactly twenty years to the day of his injury. He also initiated a statewide grassroots research board/program which has funded over $90 million to researchers in NYS. Paul gave his time and money to see these projects through to completion.
Paul often said, “whatever accomplishments I may have been fortunate enough to have achieved, it is because of the constant loyal support and help from my family, friends, volunteers, law enforcement community and the Grumps.
Paul enjoyed time with his family, helping others, driving his vintage Chevy Caprice Sedan, the few winters he spent in sunny Florida and lunch with friends at Dee Dee’s Tavern. He appreciated the fine customer service from Lev Shoe Repair, Ragonese Imports and the Lucky Garden Restaurant, Paul’s Garage and always the help he received from Dr. Carl’s assistant, Shanti. Paul missed his pre-injury days in Tupper Lake of hunting, fishing, camping, golfing and skiing.
Survivors include his wife, Marie Claire, six children; Valerie (Michael) Burdo, Christine (Lance) Richardson, Claudine (John) Costello, Lisa (Carl) Albright, James (Kristin) Richter, John Richter and partner Katie O’Keefe; his brother Carl Richter, grandchildren; Olivia Richter, and Maryna and Andrew Richardson and his many friends. Paul was very proud of the accomplishments of his six children which he attributed to their hard work and their mother, Marie, who dedicated her life to her family.
The family would like to thank the nurses at St. Peter’s Hospital Community Hospice Inn for taking such great care of Paul in his last moments.
Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Paul’s family Friday, August 7, 2020 9a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at McVeigh Funeral Home, 208 North Allen Street, Albany, NY 12206 (Please only enter the funeral home from the rear parking lot doorway; Masks and Social Distancing are required; and 40 visitors at a time will be allowed in the funeral home) and then continue on with a New York State Trooper Escort to the Gerald BH Saratoga National Cemetery for a 12:30 pm Service with Military Honors.
To leave a message for the family, please visit www.McveighFuneralHome.com
In lieu of flowers, friends wishing to remember Paul may consider a contribution to Sunnyview Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation, 270 Belmont Avenue, Schenectady, NY or the NYS Troopers PBA, Signal 30 Fund, 120 State Street, Albany, NY 12207.
Dale A King, Sr., 54
Dale Allen King, Sr., 54, of Dryden, NY, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, July 4, 2020, at his home.
Born in Altamont, N.Y. on September 28, 1965, Dale was the son of the late Richard and Beatrice Claremont King.
He was a 1983 graduate of Groton Central School. Shortly after graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Army where he served from 1984 until his honorable discharge in 1988. He was a proud member of the American Legion.
He is survived by his children, Leah (Adam Standish) King of McDonough, and Dale Allen King II of Freeville; his stepchildren, Johanna (Andrew) Harvey of McGraw, Jamie (Doug) Hehner of N.J., and Amylynn (Nathan) Lucas of Freeville. He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Matthew and Rylin Standish; his stepgrandchildren, Ahlexis, Kobe, and Kirsten Tetreault, Natalynn Lucas, and Henley and Hendrix Hehner; his brothers, Mark King of Groton, Todd (Colleen) King of Tupper Lake, and Kent (Dawn) King of CA; several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
In keeping with the wishes of the family, a private burial will be held at Holy Name Cemetery, Tupper Lake, followed by a private celebration of life.
Those wishing to remember Dale through a donation are asked to consider any local organization that serves to benefit our veterans.
Denise Sullivan Moore, 81
Denise Sullivan Moore, age 81, well-known summer resident of Tupper Lake, passed away on Sunday, July 26, 2020, at her home on Little Wolf Lake, surrounded by her loving family.
She was born in Little Falls, N.Y., the daughter of the late Helen and Dennis Sullivan.
Calling hours will take place on Friday, July 31, 2020 from 4p.m. until 7p.m. at the Frary-Stuart Funeral Home, Tupper Lake. A Funeral Mass will take place on Saturday, August 1, 2020 at 11a.m. at Holy Name /Saint Alphonsus Church. Immediately following the services will be a burial at Holy Name Cemetery
Denise was a 1957 graduate of St. Mary’s Academy in Little Falls and received her Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from Hartwick College in 1961. She also studied at Teachers College, Columbia University.
After graduation, her nursing career took her to San Francisco and in the mid-1960s she lived and worked in Nuremberg, Germany as a civilian nurse for the US Army, allowing her to travel throughout Europe.
After returning from Germany, Denise became a public health nurse for the City of Utica and then the Social Service Coordinator for Faxton Hospital, also in Utica.
Denise later returned to graduate school at the University of Buffalo where she received her Master’s degree in Community Health Nursing and became a certified nurse practitioner in women’s health.
She was a nursing faculty member at Niagara University and retired from Morrisville State College in 1999 as an associate professor of Nursing.
Denise is survived by her husband, John Sparks Moore, her daughter, Susan Moore Koomen, and her husband, Eric, a granddaughter, Julia Ann Koomen, a grandson, Cole Sparks Koomen and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brother, James, and his wife Barbara, brother-in-law, Edward (Ned) Moore, and sister-in-law, Susan Moore Edgette.
Donations in Denise’s memory can be made out to High Peaks Hospice, online or mailed to 309 County Route 47, Suite 3, PO Box 840, Saranac Lake, NY 12983 or Hospice at University of Rochester Medical Center, online or mailed to 2180 Empire Boulevard, Webster, NY 14580.
Online condolences can be made at www.fraryfuneralhomes.com
Chris David Woods, 52
Chris David Woods, age 52, of Tupper Lake, passed away at his home on Tuesday, July 14, 2020. Arrangements are under the direction of Frary- Spaulding Funeral Home.
Mr. Woods was born on December 21, 1967 in Tupper Lake, the son of Kenneth Woods and Reta (St. Onge) Woods. He graduated from Tupper Lake High School 1986. Later Chris attended SUNY Canton for electrical work. Chris worked in Fort Drum with his brothers on electrical jobs, he worked as a chef at Potsdam College, then later at Sunmount as a DDSO.
Chris loved hunting and beating his brothers at everything he did. He enjoyed archery, rifles, water skiing and skiing Big Tupper.
Mr. Woods is survived by his mother Reta Woods; his son Justin Woods and his companion, Tonya Fuller of Malone, NY; his two daughters, Ashleigh Woods and Amanda Woods and their mother Karen Kraus of Colton, NY; two sisters, Sherley Garrelts and her husband Norman, Lorene Roye and her husband Phillip; three grandchildren Jacob, Aalinna, Mariska; nieces and nephews; his ex-wife Billie Jo Pickering, and a special sister-in-law Bette and Jim.
Chris was predeceased by his brothers, Glenn Woods and Kenneth Woods Jr.; his sister Carrie Jane; and his father Kenneth Woods Sr.
Donald Lawrence Keller, 81
Donald Lawrence Keller, 81, a proud lifelong native of Long Lake, New York went to be with the Lord on July 10, 2020. Donald, “Donnie,” was the son of Lawrence and Marie Keller and graduated from Long Lake Central School in 1956 before joining the Navy. Donnie returned to Long Lake working various jobs before forming his own company, Kickerville Construction.
He leaves behind his wife, Venita, son, Sam Keller, daughters Wendy Krom, Katherine (Katie) Slentz, Kristen (Kris) Lance, and Karrah (Boo) Gereau; stepsons, Dana and Scott Gagnier, sons in law, Kenneth Slentz, Michael Lance and Daniel Gereau, one daughter-in-law, Sherilea Keller, twenty two grandchildren, and eight great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his son, Donald (DJ) Keller.
Donnie was a licensed pilot and built his own airstrip. He was well-known in New York State as one of the most skilled grader operators of his time. He was an avid hunter and was famous among family and friends for his secret venison sausage and his clam dip. Donnie loved to sing and had a beautiful voice. He loved people and made friends with everyone he met.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Long Lake Wesleyan Church for the orphanage in Haiti that Donnie loved.
Jon Michael Sabin
Jon Michael Sabin, of Naperville, IL died peacefully in his home on Friday, July 26, after a long battle with cancer. He was 63 years old.
Jon was born on December 6th, 1956 in Malone, to Lloyd “Bud” Sabin and Margaret “Peg” Sabin.
He graduated from Franklin Academy in Malone, and State University of New York at Morrisville with an Associate Degree in Business Administration. He worked as an HVAC engineer and salesperson, most recently at RC Sales in Downers Grove, IL.
In 2004, he married Kim LaGow of Naperville, and they remained happily married until Jon’s passing. A lifelong fan of the Boston Red Sox, Jon also enjoyed listening to music, riding his motorcycle, and spending time telling stories with his family. Those who knew Jon remember him as a friendly, down-to-earth, glass half full person who never hesitated to help those in need.
He is predeceased by his parents. He is survived by his wife; Kim LaGow, six children: Megan, Nicholas, Adam, Cale, Rachel, and Kate; six grandchildren: Cain, Eliza, Jillian, Ace, Connor, and Finn; a sister, Deborah; and two brothers: Tom and his wife, Sherry and Bob, and his wife, Janet and numerous nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Edward-Elmhurst Cancer Center, 120 Spalding Drive. #111, Naperville, IL 60540.
Theresa Peets Savard, 84
Theresa Peets Savard, 84, Jonesborough, passed away Friday, July 3, 2020, at NHC Healthcare of Johnson City.
Theresa was born in Tupper Lake to the late William and Maude LaCount Peets. She was of the Catholic faith, attending St. Mary’s in Johnson City and St. Matthews in Winter Haven, FL.
In addition to her parents, Theresa is preceded in death by her loving husband, whom she adored and missed dearly since his passing seven years ago, Richard Allen Savard, an infant son, Robert Savard, and her brothers, Donald, Robert and Gerald Peets.
Those left to cherish her memory are her children, Richard “Rick” William Savard and wife Miriam of Burnsville, NC, Kim Anders and husband Michael of Jonesborough, Sherry Perkins and husband Douglas of Austin, TX; grandchildren, Angela, Jess, Michael, Tanner; great-grandchildren, Sofia, Gigi, David, Lucie; siblings, Shirley Dechene, Nancy Maroun, Richard Peets and wife Carole, all of Tupper Lake.
Theresa’s children would like to say a special thank you to Sam and the staff and NHC for taking such good care of their mother.
It was Theresa’s wish to be cremated and laid to rest beside her loving husband at St. Matthew’s Church in Winter Haven, FL.
Memories and condolences maybe shared at www.appfh.net
Appalachian Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Johnson City, is honored to serve the Savard family.
Vincent Jay, 89
Vincent Edward Jay, age 89, passed away on Tuesday, July 7, 2020, at his home in Tupper Lake. There was a private Funeral Mass on Friday, July 10, 2020 at 2p.m. at St. Alphonsus Holy Name Church. A burial took place at St. Alphonsus Cemetery immediately following the service. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Frary-Stuart Funeral Home, Tupper Lake.
Vincent was born on December 13, 1930, in Auburn, N.Y., son of Harry and Nellie Austin Jay. They moved to Tupper Lake in 1931.
Vincent graduated from Tupper Lake High School in 1948. During high school, Vincent was a star athlete and lettered in football, baseball, basketball and track and was chosen Captain of the High School All-State Team.
Vincent enlisted in the United States Navy in 1951 and served four years until he retired in 1954. During his time in the Navy, Vincent traveled to Camp Harn and served two tours of duty in Korea.
He married Betty Johnson on July 1, 1953, and together they had three boys, Vincent, Martin and John.
He went on to obtain his Bachelors and Master’s degree in Elementary Education from SUNY Potsdam. Vincent would use his degrees to teach 8th and 6th grade, was elementary school principal and later Director of Special Programs. He was on the school board for five and half years.
He would also attend Syracuse University, Clarkson University and West Virginia University. He would soon start his teaching career in 1958 and retired from teaching in 1985 as Director of Special Programs in Tupper Lake.
Vincent was an active member in the Knights of Columbus and the New York State Retired Teachers Association and a life member of the Lions Club, VFW, American Legion. He was Lion of the year from 1978 to 1980, Chairman of the Franklin County Elementary Council Association and a third-degree Knights of Columbus.
His wife, Betty passed away on March 30, 2008 after 54 years of marriage. Vincent remarried in March 8, 2009 to Rena Watras who passed away on February 16, 2016.
Vincent is survived by his sons, Vincent, of Lowville, Martin, of Johnson City, and John, of Tupper Lake.
He is predeceased by his wives, Betty and Lorena.
Vincent enjoyed fishing, hunting and golf but above all, he liked to work in his woodshop. He was a family man and enjoyed many wonderful moments with his children.
Donations in Vincent’s memory can be made out to High Peaks Hospice, 309 Co Rd 47 Suite 3, Saranac Lake, NY, or the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Florida.
Online condolences can be made at www.fraryfuneralhomes.com.
Richard A. Lemieux, 77
Richard A. Lemieux, 77 of Mooers Forks, formerly of Tupper Lake, passed away Tuesday, June 30, 2020 at his home with his family by his side.
Born October 4, 1942 in Elizabeth, New Jersey, he was the son of Joseph and Margaret Lemieux.
He attended Clarkson University and was a U. S. Navy Vietnam veteran.
He was a self-employed carpenter. Richard loved to fly and also enjoyed gardening and fishing.
He is predeceased by his parents and a younger brother, Michael.
Left to cherish Rick's memories are his wife, Cheryl; two sons, Rick Schuttig and Nathan Lemieux; one daughter, Tara Clarke and her husband, John. He is further survived by three grandchildren, Susan, Ezekiel and Alexander. Also surviving Rick are three brothers, Joseph Jr. and his wife, Rosemary of Piercefield; James and his wife Alice; Wayne and his wife Julie and one sister Carol King, all of Tupper Lake.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Donations in his memory may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.
Arrangements are in the care of the Ross Funeral Home, 2586 Route 11, Mooers. To offer an online condolence, please visit www.rossfuneralhomes.com
Phillip A. Benware, 77
Phillip A. Benware, 77, of Mayfield died Saturday July 11, 2020 at Albany Medical Center Hospital after a courageous battle with a rare kidney disease.
He was born in Tupper Lake, on October 17, 1942 a son of Romeo and Gladys Dupuis Benware and was educated there. Phil moved to Mayfield in 1994 to be closer to his children.
Mr. Benware owned and operated Benware Logging in Tupper Lake. He continued to work as a truck driver until his retirement.
He enjoyed hunting and fishing with his son, tinkering in his shed, and spending time at the casino with his wife. Phil was known for his sense of humor, mostly in the form of teasing, secret handshakes, and not-so-famous songs. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by three sisters, Shirley Facteau, and Nancy and Mary Benware; and two brothers, Gordon and Richard Benware.
Survivors include his beloved wife, Denise Leroux Benware, whom he married on February 19, 1966; a daughter, Julie Benware of Saratoga Springs; a son, Timothy Benware of Broadalbin; three granddaughters, Ashley Watson of Ballston Lake, Amy Watson of Saratoga Springs, and Amber Benware of Broadalbin; a great-grandson, Maddox Brodsky; a great-granddaughter, Ahri Whitehead; two sisters, Connie Amell of Saranac Lake and Linda (Daniel) McGivney of Warren, OH; two brothers, Bruce (Callie) Benware of Fulton and Charles (Deborah) Benware of Tupper Lake; a sister-in-law, Margaret Benware of Tupper Lake; and several nieces and nephews.
Cremation was performed at Park View Crematorium, Schenectady. Calling hours will be held on Saturday from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Robert M. Halgas Funeral Home, Inc. 111 County Highway 106 (Corner of Route 29 & Black Street), Johnstown. A prayer service will be conducted at 1 pm at the funeral home with Rev. Jun Segura. In accordance with current health guidelines, facial coverings and social distancing are required. Memorial contributions may be made to the Mayfield Volunteer Fire Dept., in care of the funeral home.
Warren O. Dwight, 98
A graveside service was held for our wonderful Dad, Warren O. Dwight, 98, who passed away in his sleep on Wednesday, morning, July 8th 2020. His last words to us were: “I’m looking forward to a good night’s sleep”. There was no specific cause of death. He died peacefully in his sleep.
Warren was born on September 7, 1921 in Tupper Lake, the son of Edwin Roy Dwight and Mary Louise Cote.
Warren married Elaine Bismarck on August 21, 1948 where they resided on Long Island, NY and later retired to Keene, N.Y. He served in World War II from June 1942 to September 1945 in the 677th Bombardment Squadron – Air Offensive Japan, Burma, China, and India. He received the World War II Victory Medal, American SV Medal, Asiatic Pacific SV Medal and Good Conduct Medal.
Warren is survived by his wife; our mother, Elaine R. Dwight of Keene; three children, Timothy Warren Dwight of Peru, IN, Emily Elizabeth Scozzafava of Kent CT, and Gregory Stephen Dwight of Goodyear, AZ; six grandchildren, Tyler, Alexandra, David, Madison, Christopher, and Noah; one great-granddaughter, Eirin and one great-grandson, Oliver. He was predeceased by his grandson Jacob. He is also survived by his sister Joan Brown of Harvest, AL.
Warren was a fine musician, trumpet player – big band jazz being his all-time favorite music to play.
He was a loving, gentle, and quiet husband and father who enjoyed fishing, hunting, bird watching, reading and smoking his pipe.
The graveside service was held at 12 p.m. on Sunday, July 12 at Norton Cemetery, Keene, with Reverend John Sampson, Pastor of Keene Valley Congregational Church, officiating. Military Honors were provided by the Keene Valley American Legion, Keene Valley, NY.
The M. B. Clark, Inc. Funeral Home in Lake Placid, NY is in charge of arrangements. Relatives and friends are invited to share a memory, upload a photograph or leave condolences for the family at www.mbclarkfuneralhome.com.
Edward “Red” Clement, 77
Edward “Red” Clement, 77, of Tupper Lake, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 2, 2020, at the home of his daughter Lori.
Born in Tupper Lake on March 26, 1943, he was the son of Arthur and Marie Jeannette (Sabourin) Clement. He married Donna (Rule) Clement on November 4, 1961, and together they raised six children.
Red attended local schools and was a lifelong resident of Tupper Lake. Until his retirement in 1985, he was the manager of Grand Union grocery stores throughout the Tri-Lakes area. He represented his community as a trustee on the Tupper Lake Village Board, served on the Board of Education for the Tupper Lake Central School District, and was a member of the Tupper Lake Volunteer Fire Department for many years.
Red enjoyed any task involving physical labor (and always liked to be involved in everyone’s projects). He loved watching the NY Yankees, having coffee with his friends at McDonald's, and making his daily rounds to see his children and grandchildren.
Edward is survived by his children, Lori (Christopher) LeBlanc, Amy (Richard) Stout, Scott (Michelle) Clement, Dawn (Geoffery) Carmichael, and Branden Clement all of Tupper Lake; and Pamela Brickey (Richard Pilon) of Parkville, Maryland. He is also survived by his sisters Jeannine Storer of Florida, Mary Jo Anne (Michael) Meade of Maryland, Cheryl (Thomas) Fee of Tupper Lake; brother Arthur Jr. (Serena) Clement of Tupper Lake; and sister-in-law Janet (Wayne) Ostolski of Wheatfield. He will be remembered fondly by his fifteen grandchildren: Nathan Trudeau, Kyle Trudeau, Scott LeBlanc, Krista LeBlanc, Shawna Brickey, Samantha Brickey, Cody Brickey, Genna Carmichael, Myles Carmichael, Nicholas Skiff, Elliot Clement, Bayleigh Clement, Parker Clement, and Jonathan Clement; eight great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his wife, Donna; brothers Leonard, Leo, Roger, and Marcel; sisters Loretta Clement, Adelaide LaRocque and Theresa Gaff; and his parents.
A Burial Service will take place on July 25, 2020, at 10 a.m. at Saint Alphonsus Cemetery, with Deacon Gerald Savage officiating.
Those wishing to make memorial contributions in Edward's memory are asked to consider High Peaks Hospice or the Tupper Lake Volunteer Rescue Squad. Online condolences can be made at www.fraryfuneralhomes.com.
Richard Ovilla Roberts
Rick Roberts, 71, of Tupper Lake, passed away on Monday, July 6, 2020, at the Adirondack Medical Center in Saranac Lake.
Rick is survived by his son, Kirk Roberts of Fort Pierce, Florida. He was predeceased by his daughter Angela Roberts of Tupper Lake.
Rick was born on December 7th, 1948, in Tupper Lake. His parents were Ovilla Roberts and Dorothy Gale.
Rick was raised in lumber camps until he was old enough to go to school. Rick attended Holy Ghost Academy, in Tupper Lake until the tenth grade. He then attended Tupper Lake High School when he was recruited to play football by Frank Tice.
Rick graduated from Tupper Lake High School in 1966. In 1968, Rick married Susan Fuller. He and Susan had a son, Kirk Roberts. Rick spent six years in the Army Reserves. He was a medic with the 310th Field Hospital in Malone. He received an honorable discharge.
Rick attended Loyola University in Montreal where he played football. Rick then went on to play football at Washburn University in Topeka, Kansas. He studied Biology and Physical Education. Rick trained and coached many young people in his home gym in Tupper Lake. Rick was an expert in Fitness and Power-lifting. He trained six High School National Championship Teams.
In 1987, Rick won Lumberjack of the Year, Canadian American Championship. In 1989, Rick was also a National Champion and World Champion. He today still holds the New York State bench press record for 275 lb. Class sub-masters. Rick came back to Tupper Lake and worked as a Lumberjack. He then worked at the United States Postal Service and retired in 1998 after 25 years of service to the USPS.
Rick married Denise Villeneuve and they had a daughter, Angela Roberts. Rick continued to train weightlifters and worked with Tupper Lake youth until 2015.
Per Ricks wishes, there will be no calling hours or service. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Frary-Stuart Funeral Home.
Online condolences can be made at www.fraryfuneralhomes.com.
Terry L Parks, 64
Terry passed away on Saturday June 13, 2020 at home with his loving family beside him.
He was born in Tupper Lake on May 17, 1956 to Kenneth and Stella Parks.
Terry graduated from Tupper Lake High School in 1975 and went on to further his education at North Country Community College and Plattsburgh State University in 1980 and some post graduate at Cortland.
Terry went on to join the United States Air Force. He was in the military from 1985 until 1991. Terry was chosen to run track representing the USA while in the military and was stationed in Spain he then finished his 7 years at Altus Air Base in Oklahoma.
He married the former Jackie Fields on June 29, 1985 in Colchester, Vermont.
They moved to Clinton, New York where they raised a wonderful family.
In 2005 his family was chosen as family of the year by the Family Nurturing Center by the Clinton School District. They enjoyed an expense-paid holiday given to them.
Terry worked for Upstate Cerebral Palsy for 27 years and retired in August 2019.
Terry was loved by his community and was very involved in his sons sports and any activities involving sports.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife Jackie, his son and best friend, John of Clinton and his daughter Maura (Bubo) and grandchildren Leona and Theodore Markov of Kocani, Macedonia and his sister Judith (Daniel) Rivers of Cadyville, NY and their daughter Sarah (William) Olson and family of Boston, Massachusetts,
He also leaves behind his in-laws John and Carole Fields of Oswego, N.Y., Sister-laws Jeannine Thebault of Big Springs, Texas and Maureen McGrath of Kennesaw, Georgia.
Surviving Terry also are many cousins here and abroad.
Because of COVID-19 funeral arrangements are not complete.
Richard W. LaQuay, 71
We are sad to announce the loss of our beloved brother, Richard W. LaQuay, age 71, who died unexpectedly at his home, 240 Park St. in Tupper Lake, NY.
Richard was born on February 20, 1949, in Tupper Lake, NY, the son of Charles and Helen Snyder LaQuay. Richard was a veteran of the US Airforce with eight years of military service, and two combat tours in Cambodia.
Richard is survived by his siblings; Robert LaQuay, and his wife, Viola, of California. Terry LaQuay, and his wife, Heidi, of Tupper Lake, Debbie Godin, of Florida, and Randy LaQuay, of Tupper Lake. Richard is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
He is predeceased by his parents, Charles and Helen LaQuay, one brother, Gary LaQuay, and a brother-in-law, Marshall Godin.
He loved hunting, fishing with his family and was especially fond of his beloved cat, Sophie.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Frary-Stuart Funeral Home, Tupper Lake.
Online condolences can be made at www.fraryfuneralhomes.com.
David Tomberlin, 52
David Tomberlin, age 52, of Tupper Lake, passed away on Friday, June 5, 2020, at Albany Medical Center surrounded by his partner and partner’s family who loved him as a son.
David is survived by Russ Cronin, Russell and Sally Cronin, Robyn (Cronin) Butler and family, and Raymond Cronin and family.
David was born on January 27, 1968, son of Donald and Camilla (Coyne) Tomberlin.
He attended University of Georgia before starting his career in software sales. In 2006, he left corporate America to move to his home in Tupper Lake to fulfill his lifelong dream which is now Well Dressed Food. He loved Tupper Lake and served on the town board. He was a board member of ARISE, Next Stop Tupper Lake, and Adirondack Railway Preservation Society. David, also, represented Tupper Lake on the North Country Regional Economic Development Council.
David was a train enthusiast who earned his conductor’s license while working on the Adirondack Scenic Railroad when it ran between Saranac Lake and Tupper Lake. He, also, was a talented web developer who donated his time to many local businesses and nonprofits to build and manage their sites.
In lieu of flowers, donations in David’s memory can be made to the Tupper Lake Food Pantry where David had been donating time to support meal delivery to seniors along with donation pickup for the pantry.
Calling hours will be Friday, June 12, 2020, from 4p.m. to 7p.m. at Frary-Stuart Funeral Home, Tupper Lake. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 19, 2020, at David’s home, Camp Runamok.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Frary-Stuart Funeral Home, Tupper Lake.
Online condolences can be made at www.fraryfuneralhomes.com.
Neva Bliss Santerre, 83
Neva Bliss Santerre, age 83, beloved wife of Daniel G. Santerre, passed away on Wednesday, May 27, 2020.
She is survived by her husband; children, sons, Daniel J. (Cindy); Vincent (Keyle); daughters, Mary Shaheen (Jim) and Claire Santerre (Pete). She is also survived by two sisters, Joyce Smith (Don), and Dawn Brochu (Leo) and a brother, Cliff Bliss (Gigi).
She also has thirteen grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.
She is predeceased by two children, Ann Elizabeth and Gordon Joseph; her parents, Clifton and Harriet Bliss; sisters, Eilieen Brown and Shirley Floss, Ethel Baker and brother James Bliss.
Neva loved her family and remained positive no matter the circumstances which surely was a result of her strong faith in God. In addition to raising her family, she found herself in other caregiving roles and was an accomplished seamstress.
Prior to her marriage in 1959 she had a career working for banks in Glens Falls and San Diego.
Neva was an active member of the St. Alphonsus Holy Name of Jesus Parish and regular attendee of the Tupper Lake Senior Citizen Center where she enjoyed friendships around meals, outings and Bingo. She loved to spend time with her family and friends whether through visiting in person or through phone and social media.
Due to restrictions, calling hours will be held privately at the Frary-Stuart Funeral Home on 24 Cliff Avenue in Tupper Lake. A private funeral Mass for Neva was held at the St. Alphonsus Holy Name of Jesus Church at 10a.m. on Monday, June 1, 2020, with the Rev. Douglas Decker officiating. Burial will immediately follow at the Holy Name Cemetery.
Donations in Neva’s memory can be made to St. Alphonsus Holy Name of Jesus Parish, 48 Wawbeek Avenue Tupper Lake, NY 12986 or the Tupper Lake Adult Center, 179 Demars Blvd. Tupper Lake, NY 12986.
A live stream of the Funeral Mass will be available to the public on our website at www.fraryfuneralhomes.com.
Online condolences may be made at www.fraryfuneralhomes.com.
Steven A LaMere, 56
Steven Allen LaMere, 56, passed away peacefully March 23, 2020 at his home in Ballston Spa with his mom, dad and his two dear home health aides by his side. Steven passed away of Lou Gehrig's disease.
Born June 7, 1963 he was the son of Robert A. LaMere and Beverly J. LaMere of Tupper Lake.
Steve graduated of Tupper Lake High School 1982. In high school he played football and made All Northern. Later on he was quick to try rugby with Bob Burrell of Paul Smiths and broke his nose in his first game. He said, “he loved the game.”
He attended St. Lawrence University for one year then transferred to Canton and then on to E.S.F. Environmental Science and Forestry in Syracuse until he graduated.
While in Syracuse he took karate lessons and had a few successful bouts , eventually attaining the rank of Black Belt.
Steve's first job as working at a fish hatchery close to Syracuse and later on he became hatchery manager at Crown Point. He waorked there until he retired in 2019.
When the job of fish hatchery manager came up, after college he gladly accepted. Right away he made remarkable transformations by culturing 36,000 two year old trout and 2,000 three year old trout annually. His hatchery became the most unique and ambitious stocking program in the Northeastern U.S.
In 1998 Steve was honored with the Professional Conservationist of the year award.
Steve became concerned with Milfoil being so prevalent in the lakes and ponds and formed his own business after his retirement from the hatchery. It was called Adirondack Ecologists, LLC.
As president and CEO he did his own environmental consulting and planning. He became Region 5 director and an environmental consulting and policy analyst. He was also elected president of the Adirondack Council at one point.
While in Syracuse he met and married April Bailiff. They had a daughter Ashley and a few years later a son Morgan. Ashley grew up and attended Vassar College for five years. Morgan attends Rochester Institute of Technology and is in his third year.
Steve always loved the outdoors. He learned to fish, hunt and trap with his grandmother, Nellie Staves an avid outdoors woman herself. He also liked to cut trees in the woods with his dad.
Steve was a good dad and good man. He saved his money to take his kids on trips to different countries after his divorce.
Over his fireplace mantel there is a plaque which has letters that seem to be written in stone. The plaque reads: “The Will of God Will Never Take You Where The Grace of God Will Not Protect You. Amen.”
Nileland Wood, 93
Nileland A. Wood, 93, passed away on Sunday, May 31, 2020 at the Wesley Health Care Center in Saratoga Springs, New York.
He was born December 2, 1926 to Marshall and Hattie Wood.
He was drafted into the Army in 1945 and served as a medic until March 1947.
Nileland was an outdoorsman. He loved working in his yard, traveling through wooded areas and visiting the St. Lawrence Seaway.
He was preceded in death by his parents, five brothers Howard, Floyd, Marshall Jr., Jaye, and Walter and one sister Delberta.
Mr. Wood lived in Tupper Lake for three years with close friends Danny Ott and Sharon Dukette and made many friends here and in Saranac Lake and Keene where he went for his dialysis.
He will be buried at Gerald B.H. Soloman Saratoga National Cemetery in Saratoga.
Due to the COVID-19 there will be no services.
Joseph John Haszonics
Joseph John Haszonics of Long Lake passed away at Mercy Living Center on May 25, 2020. He was 96 years old.
A burial service will take place today- Wednesday, June3, 2020- at 11a.m. at Long Lake Cemetery. Arrangments are under the care and direction of Frary-Stuart Funeral Home, Tupper Lake.
Joseph is survived by his wife of 67 years, Ruth; two sons, Steven and Joseph; and granddaughters, Violet and Brianna. He is predeceased by his parents and two sons, Jon and Andrew.
Joseph was born and brought up in Passaic, N.J., the son of Joseph and Elizabeth Barna Haszonics.
After high school, John joined the Army. He is a World War II veteran where he was a paratrooper in the 511th infantry. He was also stationed in the Philippines and was in the Army of occupation in Japan after their surrender. Following his discharge, Joseph attended and graduated from the University of Missouri of Journalism.
He spent many years as a writer and editor for magazines and newspapers in New Jersey, New York, and Florida.
After his retirement, Joseph started hiking. He hiked the Appalachian Trail and the Adirondack High Peaks. He wrote and published “Trail Days,” a story of his experiences in the Appalachian Trail.
Donations in Joseph’s memory can be made to Feeding America, P.O. Box 96749, Washington, D.C. 20090.
Online condolences can be made at www.fraryfuneralhomes.com.