Dorothy M. Alexander, 92

Dorothy M. Alexander, 92, of Brewerton, formerly of Tupper Lake, passed peacefully on Sunday, January 31, 2021, at Sunnyside Nursing Home.

Dorothy worked as a nurse's aide in various hospitals including Sunmount VA Hospital in Tupper Lake. She enjoyed sewing and crafting.

Dorothy is survived by her brother Kenneth Payrot; sisters Shirley Rudy and Betty Carter; and several nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her brother Harold Payrot.

A private burial will take place at Holy Name Cemetery, in Tupper Lake, in the spring.

Christian M Nadeau, 59

Christian Maurice Nadeau was called home to the Lord on Jan. 11, 2021 at St. Elizabeth's Hospital in Utica, NY. He resided in Utica at the time of his death.

Christian was born Jan. 30, 1961in Tupper Lake to Mathias and Laurette Nadeau who predeceased him. He was predeceased by an infant sister, Sylvie.

Christian is survived by sons, Cory Nadeau and Zachary Hockey of Tupper Lake and Adam Brunelle of Plattsburgh, a granddaughter Aubrey of Tupper Lake and grandson Oline of Dexter, N.Y.

He is also survived by a sister, Chantal Skiff of Virginia Beach, VA., brothers Gerald (Jerry) and Mary of Rocky Point, N.Y. and Bernard (Bernie) and Joan of Plattsburgh. Also surviving Christian are four aunts Georgette, Raymonde, Cecile and Pauline of Quebec, Canada, as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Christian worked many years at OWD, Inc., and later at Sam's Club in Watertown.

There will be no calling hours. Interment will be in the spring at the convenience of the family.

Donations in his name may be made to the Tupper Lake Rescue Squad or St. Joseph's Rehabilitation Center in Saranac Lake.

JoAnn C. Sheridan, 74

On Thursday, January 21, 2021 JoAnn C. Sheridan, a loving mother of two children, passed away at the age of 74.

Born in Tupper Lake on November 30, 1946, JoAnn resided in the Glens Falls area before retiring to The Villages, FL in 2010.

A fully dedicated and loving mother, JoAnn was adored by her sons, who enjoyed spending time with her in Florida and on trips to Colorado, California, and around the country.

JoAnn had a great sense of style and loved decorating her home, where she could often be found with her nose buried in a book, making jewelry, playing word games, or watching a movie. She was known for her warmhearted spirit, eternal kindness, and infectious smile.

JoAnn was preceded in death by her father, Bernie, and her mother Ruth. She is survived by her two sons, Todd and Dave, her two brothers Mark and Paul, and several cousins, nieces, and nephews. She will be dearly missed.

A memorial service is being planned in her honor later this year.

Online condolences and messages to the family can be made at https://baldwincremation.

Kenneth A. Brunette

Kenneth A. Brunette of Tupper Lake passed away peacefully at Mercy Living Center on January 15, 2021.

Ken is survived by his wife, Judith Brunette, of Tupper Lake, and his loving children, Lori Martin and her husband, Raymond of Tupper Lake, Thomas Brunette and his wife, Karen, of Tupper Lake and Andrew Brunette and his wife, Nancy, of Rutherfordton, NC; by his sister, Joan Denis of Tupper Lake, by six grandchildren- Scott Brunette of Douglas, MA, Nick Brunette of Saranac Lake, Kristopher Brunette of Tupper Lake, Kelly Martin of Plattsburgh, Katherine Reeder of Fallston, MD and Jay Martin of Tupper Lake. Ken is survived too by great grandchildren Abigail and Grant Reeder of Fallston, MD, Brisa and Greta Brunette of Saranac Lake, Grady and Emmie Brunette of Tupper Lake, and River Brunette and Rileigh McEttrick of Douglas, MA, as well as nieces, nephews and cousins.

He is predeceased by his sister, Betty Jarvis and his brother, Donald Brunette.

Ken was born in Tupper Lake on April 21, 1929, the son of Eugene and Viola (Boushie) Brunette. He attended Holy Ghost Academy and later enlisted in the United States Marines Corp in 1946.

Ken was previously married to Elizabeth Girard. Ken worked for the VA Hospital in Tupper Lake, Benson Mines in Star Lake and many years for the Town of Altamont in Tupper Lake as a heavy equipment operator. Ken retired from the town in 1985.

Ken loved to hunt and fish, play cribbage with friends and family, enjoyed a good conversation with the many friends he had in Tupper Lake and loved spending time with his family. He was a very proud founding member of the Minnow Pond Club on Big Tupper Lake where he enjoyed many spring fishing trips, summer vacations with his family, fall hunting seasons and winter excursions with his fellow members and best friends.

Ken was a former Commander of the Tupper lake VFW Club Post 3120, one of the original members of Big Tupper Ski Patrol and was a member of the Tupper Lake Fire Department and a former driver for the Department’s Vagabond Racing Team, Company 5. After his retirement, Ken enjoyed volunteering as a Foster Grandparent at Sunmount in Tupper Lake.

There will be no calling hours. A mass of Christian burial will be held in the spring followed by a grave side service in the Gale Cemetery. Arrangements are under the care of the Frary-Stuart Funeral Home in Tupper Lake.

Donations may be made in Ken’s memory to the Tupper Lake Fire Department, 21 Santa Clara Ave, PO Box 849, Tupper Lake, NY 12986 or the VFW Club Post 3120, 196 Park St., Tupper Lake, NY 12986.

Online condolences may be made at www.fraryfuneralhomes.com.

Marilyn L. Cummings-Washington, 76

Marilyn L. Cummings-Washington, age 76, of Tupper Lake, passed away January 7, 2021 at Adirondack Medical Center in Saranac Lake.

She was born August 21, 1944, to Florence H. and Wilber S. Rose, MD, in Niskayuna, N.Y. She graduated from Saranac Lake High School in 1962. She received her a B.A in Psychology from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst.

She worked at UMass Amherst in the Department of Polymer Science and Engineering (1981 – 1994). She retired as a paralegal for the State Senate Office of Neil Breslin.

She is survived by her son Stephen of Springfield, MA, her sisters, Linda LaRock, of Jacksonville, FL, Paula Rose, of Tupper Lake, and Margaret Rose and her husband, Daniel Preston, of Bordentown, N.J., her brother David Rose, of Pattersonville, N.Y. grandchildren Michael, Matthew and Tyler), and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her daughter, Christina Cummings Coy in 2015 and Christina’s father John Cummings.

Marilyn will be remembered for her brilliance in academic work, musical talent on the piano, and her determination to accomplish any goal she set for herself. In her spare time she enjoyed quilting, crewel embroidery and writing.

At the time of her death she was engaged in publishing a book to be entitled “Doctor’s Child”. Marilyn especially loved nature and the Adirondack Mountains. This photo of Marilyn was taken when she was 16 years old by John Cornwall (dec.) of North Creek, NY.

A memorial service will take place at a later date at Lake View Cemetery, Tupper Lake. Arrangements are under care and direction of Frary-Stuart Funeral Home, Tupper Lake.

Donations in her memory can be made to Tupper Lake Volunteer Rescue Squad, 169 Main St., Tupper Lake, NY 12986, or The American Cancer Society.

Condolences may be made online at www.fraryfuneralhomes.com.

Allen Thompson, 77

Allen “Big Al” Thompson passed away on January 16, 2021 at the age of 77 in Canton, N.Y. after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. He stayed strong until the end.

Allen, a native of Tupper Lake, NY was born on September 4, 1943, the son of Howard and Lorraine Boucher Thompson. He graduated from Tupper Lake High School in 1963. In the same year, he received the All Northern Award for his basketball prowess.

Following High School, he attended the Hobart Institute of Welding Technology. He served in the Army Reserve at Fort Drum in Watertown, starting in November of 1964 and was honorably discharged in October of 1970 as a PVT E-2. On October 29, 1966 he married the love of his life, Joan LaValley.

In life Allen was an extremely skilled welder, working on much of the infrastructure in Northern New York including the nuclear power plants in Oswego, the Navy’s Nuclear Training facility in Saratoga Springs as well as the bobsled run, speed skating oval and the hockey arena in Lake Placid where the “Miracle on Ice” occurred during the 1980 Olympics. He and his father constructed, mended and fitted many things in Tupper Lake and around the Adirondacks as a team at Thompson and Son Welding. He finished his career welding at the Saranac Inn Work Center for the NYSDEC.

Big Al was an accomplished woodsman, successful hunter, trapper and fisherman. In his forties he became highly interested in archery and in 1989 founded the Tupper Lake Archery Club. When the indoor range was built it was dedicated in his name Allen “Watosh” Thompson. Al rarely ever missed his mark!

Allen was predeceased by his mother Lorraine (Boucher) Thompson, his father Howard Thompson and his cousin Albert Thompson, whom he thought of as a brother.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife of 54 years Joan (LaValley) Thompson, his two sons, Scott and his wife, Tracy (Monette) Thompson, and Kurt Thompson and his wife, Lisa Loncar.

A Funeral Mass at St. Alphonsus Holy Name Church along graveside services at St. Alphonsus Cemetery will be held in the spring after the North Country ground decides to thaw!

In lieu of flowers the family would prefer donations be sent to the Parkinson’s Foundation.

Allen and his humor, kindness and compassion will be missed.

Condolences may be made online at www.fraryfuneralhomes.com.

Ernest J. Jessie Jr., 92

A Funeral Mass for Ernest J. Jessie Jr., age 92, of Tupper Lake, was held on Saturday, January 9, 2020 at 10a.m. at St. Alphonsus Holy Name Parish with Rev. Douglas Decker officiating. Burial will take place in the spring at Holy Name Cemetery.

Mr. Jessie passed away on Tuesday night, January 5, 2020 at his home. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Frary-Stuart Funeral Home, Tupper Lake.

He is survived by his wife, Rita Jessie; his three children, Mark Jessie, of Tupper Lake, Gregory Jessie and his wife, Deolinda, of Tupper Lake, and Judy Jarvis and her husband, Eric, of Dannemora; and five grandchildren, Christopher Jessie, Michelle Jessie, AJ Imlach, Emily Jessie Clark and her husband, Jordan, and Ernest Wayne Jessie; five great-grandchildren, Shane Jessie, Ryker Whitley, Maddox Whitley, Lincoln Clark, and Gracelynn Jessie.

He is predeceased by his three brothers, Robert, Vincent, and William Jessie and his two sisters, Elizabeth (Bootsie) Demers and Fern Mazur.

Ernest was born on December 1, 1928, in Tupper Lake, the son of Ernest J. Sr. and Grace M. Peck Jessie. He graduated from Tupper Lake High School in 1947. He married Rita Hesseltine on May 28, 1955 at Holy Name Church in Tupper Lake with Rev. Wilcott officiating.

He enlisted in the Army in May 1951, where he served in Germany. After returning from the military, he operated the Junction skating rink at the elementary school with his brother, Vin. He drove school bus for the Tupper Lake Central School District for 29 years.

Together with his wife, he owned and operated Jessie’s Bait and Tackle in the Junction for over 42 years.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and visiting anyone who stopped into the bait and tackle store. Ernest was a communicant of Holy Name Church.

Donations in his memory can be made to the Tupper Lake Volunteer Rescue Squad, 169 Main St, Tupper Lake, NY 12986.

Condolences may be made online at www.fraryfuneralhomes.com.

Gloria Burnet Fletcher, 88

Gloria Burnet Fletcher, 88, passed away on December 27, 2020 at the CVPH Medical Center in Plattsburgh. Gloria was born on June 10, 1932 in Tupper Lake, the youngest daughter of the late Liva (Payment) and Fred Burnet.

She is survived by her three children and their spouses: Susan Terrenzio (Tony), Jerry Fletcher (Meg), and Laurie West (Gary), nine Grandchildren and their spouses, (Joel Madden, Amy’s widow), Jim Terrenzio (Nixara), Terra Rogers (Greg), Kyle Fletcher (finance’ Rachael), Beth Fletcher, Jason West (Jessica), Jeff Terrenzio (Gina), Michelle Meyer (John), Sara Steele (finance’ Josh), Marcie Duschen (Steve), and 15 Great Grandchildren, several nieces and nephews. Her husband, siblings, and granddaughter, Amy (Terrenzio) Madden preceded her in death.

Gloria married Douglas Fletcher on September 11, 1950. They enjoyed 65 years together before his passing in 2015. Together they enjoyed horseback riding, traveling on vacations and watching their grandchildren play at various sporting events and attending their concerts. Gloria was an active 4H leader, teaching girls in Lake Clear and Tupper Lake skills of sewing and knitting. She enjoyed cross country skiing with family and friends.

Later they moved to Potsdam, NY, where family remained very important to her as she hosted countless family holidays and get-togethers. She was often the last one to leave the table, as she was too busy talking about her grandchildren’s latest accomplishments including how she saw her great grandchildren singing songs on the iPad.

She will be forever remembered for her infectious laugh, long phone conversations and home cooked meals (when during hunting season, the men ate first).

The family would like to thank Roseann Brogan and the staff at Will Rogers for their acts of kindness to Gloria.

Contributions in Gloria’s memory could be donated to the Saranac Lake Voluntary Health Association, 75 Main Street, Suite 2, Saranac Lake, N.Y. 12983. Online condolences may be made at www.fraryfuneralhomes.com.

Theresa L. Arsenault, 90

Theresa L. Arsenault, age 90, of Tupper Lake, passed away on January 3, 2021 at Good Samaritan Hospital in Islip, NY. Burial will take place at a later date in St. Alphonsus Cemetery, Tupper Lake. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Frary-Stuart Funeral Home, Tupper Lake.

She is survived by her four children, Sharon Field and her husband, George, of North Babylon, NY, William Arsenault and his wife, Amy, of Plattsburgh, NY, Susan Richer and her husband, Peter, of Tupper Lake, and Penny Arsenault, of Tupper Lake; ten grandchildren, Sharon’s children, Christopher and Tiffany, William’s children, Brooke, Timothy, Bethany, and Bergan, Susan’s Children, Angela and Jason and Penny’s children, Joshua and Jacob; nine great-grandchildren; her sisters, Irene Bevins, Vermont and Arthela Working, Indiana; and several nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her husband, William Arsenault in 2004; her brothers, Raymond, Walter, Leo, Ryford, Lyndon, Bob, Roger; her sister, Lillian; and one grandson, Colton.

Theresa was born on July 8, 1930, in Fairfield, VT, the daughter of Frederick and Ardelle Young Bushey. She married William Arsenault on July 30, 1949 in St. Alban’s, VT.

She enjoyed sitting on her front porch, shopping, knitting, crocheting, playing bingo, and puzzles. She loved spending time with her family, baking, and her favorite little dog, Lily.

Donation in lieu of flowers can be made to the ASPCA, PO Box 96929, Washington, DC 20090-6929.

Condolences may be made online at www.fraryfuneralhomes.com.

Deborah Pappal, 71

Deborah J. Pappal, 71 of Ransomville, N.Y., was called to her heavenly home on Friday, December 18, 2020 at the Niagara Hospice House, Lockport.

Born in Tupper Lake on April 4, 1949, she was the daughter of the late Charles and Ursula (Corrow) Wells.

Deborah attended the HGA Primary and St. Pius XHS in Saranac Lake.

In 1968 she moved to the Niagara Falls area, and attended St. Mary's Nursing School, where she became a registered nurse. After graduation, she was employed at Mount St. Mary's Hospital, until her retirement.

Deborah was a member of Immaculate Conception Parish, in Ransomville. She was a dedicated homemaker, and her interests included gardening, traveling, spending quality time with family, and always there for her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Deborah was preceded in death by her husband, Metro Pappal on June 30, 2020. They were united in marriage on July 14, 1993.

She is survived by four children, Danielle (Tim) Kolan of Wilson, N.Y., Nicole (late Jeffrey) Becken of Kure Beach, NC, Eric (Jacqueline) Beecher of Sanborn, N.Y., and stepson, Randall (Leila) Pappal of Michigan; six grandchildren, Jared, Joshua, Terra, Riley, Sheridan and Chloe; three brothers, Lee (MaryJo) Wells and Lynn Wells of Tupper Lake, and Ronald Wells of Niagara Falls.

Services will take place at a later date to be announced. Memorial contributions may be made to Niagara Hospice.

Arrangements were with the DuBois Funeral Home, Wheatfield, N.Y.

Arthur Siccardi

Arthur P., Siccardi II was one of the best-loved figures in the American theater, with a distinguished career as a production supervisor that spanned five decades working with the biggest stars, directors and producers on some of the best-known shows in Broadway history.

A long-time summer resident of Tupper Lake, he first visited the area in 1968 staying at Three Pillars. Soon thereafter he bought a house on Charland Road where he and his family were in residence every summer.

Arthur Siccardi passed away in New York City on December 23, 2020. His son, Drew Siccardi, reported the cause of death as complications from pneumonia.

“Artie” Siccardi was born in Englewood, New Jersey on January 18, 1931 and grew up in Fort Lee where he went to high school. One of four children (two brothers and a sister pre-deceased Siccardi), his father, Arthur P. Siccardi, Sr. was the Fort Lee Fire Chief.

Arthur Siccardi began his professional life as a minor league baseball pitcher (a southpaw) for the Johnson City Cardinals from 1951 to 1953.

An employment offer from Peter Feller to work as a show carpenter on the original national tour of Gypsy was an introduction to a world that he would work in for the rest of his professional life and establish his reputation as a backstage legend.

He established Arthur Siccardi Theatrical Services, Inc. in 1975 at the suggestion of Michael Bennett and worked alongside other such notable directors as Mike Nichols, Jerome Robbins, Tommy Tune, Gower Champion, Trevor Nunn, and Michael Blakemore and set designer greats from Jo Mielziner and Oliver Smith to Robin Wagner, John Napier, Santo Loquasto and John Lee Beatty.

Siccardi’s long list of credits as a production supervisor includes such quintessential Broadway productions and their tours as Gypsy (2003); Grease (1994 and 2007); A Chorus Line; Chicago (1996); Hello, Dolly!; Cats; Annie; Sweeney Todd; Whose Life is it Anyway?; The Real Thing; Sunday in the Park with George; Whoopi Goldberg; Children of a Lesser God; I Ought to Be in Pictures; A Day in Hollywood/A Night in the Ukraine; Brighton Beach Memoirs; My One and Only; Biloxi Blues; The Odd Couple (1985); Song and Dance; Social Security; Broadway Bound; Fences; Burn This; Cabaret (1987); Chess; Ain’t Misbehavin’; Jerome Robbins’ Broadway (1989); Lend Me a Tenor, The Heidi Chronicles; Lost in Yonkers; The Capeman; Annie Get Your Gun (1999); Kiss Me, Kate (1999); Dreamgirls; Cat on a Hot Tin Roof; Victor/Victoria; My Fair Lady (1981); Sunset Boulevard; The Color Purple; Billy Elliot: The Musical; Dirty Dancing; and, Mamma Mia!

A serious lover of good food and good wine, Artie divided his time between Miami, New York City, Cold Spring, NY, and Tupper Lake in his beloved Adirondacks.

Arthur was married to Jane Waller (deceased 1991) with whom he raised two sons, Drew and Arthur, III (deceased 2012). He was later married to Susan MacNair who died in 2005.

Arthur is survived by his son, Drew, daughter-in-law Lori, grandchildren Melanie Tocco and Cody Siccardi, and great-grandchildren Emerson Wilder Tocco and Amalia Jane Tocco.

Arthur Siccardi was awarded a Tony Honor in 2012, and later that year the SUNY Purchase Backstage Legends and Masters Award. He was a Gold Card carrying member of the International Alliance of Stage Employees (IATSE) having joined the union in 1968.

Artie Siccardi will be missed not only for keen knowledge of theatre but for his support of countless stage crews across the country. There is not a theatre hosting Broadway theatre productions where he did not work over his long career. His friendships spanned cities, states and countries as his work took him to London, Australia and elsewhere. He could figure out the most difficult problems of installing scenery in venues - a talent that earned him the respect of the designers and producers he worked with. His generosity to those he knew was legendary and manifested itself not only with his time but with financial support. He valued family and loyalty above all with a good glass of red wine coming in a close second. The best way to honor him would be to raise a glass and toast him and to support others in need as he did. He will be deeply missed.

Donations in Artie Siccardi’s memory can be made to Broadway/Cares/Equity Fights Aids (bcefa.org) , The Wild Center at Tupper Lake (wildcenter.org) and the Goff-Nelson Library at Tupper Lake where his many contributions in honor of Jane Siccardi, Susan MacNair and Artie Siccardi III have created a wonderful resource for a community he loved. (Checks should be made payable to Goff-Nelson Memorial Library and sent to the Library at 41 Lake Street, Tupper Lake, NY 12986.)

In light of current COVID-19 restrictions, a memorial tribute will be planned at a later date.

Jean Cooney Lyman, 68

Jean Cooney Lyman, 68, passed away on December 19 at Ellis Hospital in Schenectady, NY.

She was born on September 26, 1952 in Flushing, N.Y. to Lydia (Houghton) and James T. Cooney and grew up in Long Lake.

Jean loved music and was a talented musician and vocalist at Long Lake Central School and loved to dance. After school she worked for many years as a waitress and retail clerk before retiring as a direct care aide from Sunmount DDSO.

Jean had a vibrant personality and sense of humor, making friends at every turn. She was sympathetic to the plight of all abused animals and devoted to her own pets.

Jean is survived by her brother Jimmy of Long Lake; her sisters Rose (Bruce) Tallon of Morristown, NY, Patty (Mike) Farrell of Long Lake, Maureen Gonzalez of Hobe Sound, FL, Martha (Mike) Godin of Tupper Lake, NY, and Kathleen (Ed) Hanchett of Queensbury, NY; and her best pup, Bob.

She was proud to be called Aunt Jean by her many nephews and nieces: Cameron, Kristin, Madison, Bracelyn, Shea, Brian, Ian, Delaney, Danielle, Joe, Elizabeth, Lauren, Michelle, Jeremy, Jack, Leah, Michael, Emily, Lydia, and Isabelle.

Calling hours and a memorial service for Jean will take place next summer when gatherings will be safe.  Condolences can be made at Miller Funeral in Indian Lake atwww.brewermillerfuneralhomes..  Contributions in Jean’s memory are suggested for the Tri-Lakes Humane Society, Box1111, Saranac Lake, NY. 12983.

Gerard A. Roberge, 83

Gerard A. Roberge, 83, of Junction City, KS, formerly of Tupper Lake, passed away on December 16, 2020.

A graveside memorial service will be held at a later date.

Memorials are suggested to the St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church of Junction City, KS.

Gerard was born on November 17, 1937, in Canada. He was adopted by Omer and Eva (Beauparlant) Roberge. He grew up in Notre Dame des Bois, Canada.

He married his childhood love Pierrette Lussier on July 18, 1959. Together they immigrated to Tupper Lake, New York. There he worked as a lumberjack and truck driver. Together they raised their small family there for over 40 years, before retiring to Junction City, Kansas.

Gerard had many interests and hobbies. As a young man, during his lumberjack days he enjoyed many woodsman field days competitions. He participated in many events that ranged from operating heavy logging equipment to log truck driving competitions.

Gerard was also an avid bowler. He continued to bowl even after his retirement with the Junction City Senior Bowling League. He dedicated much of his time to the catholic church. Gerard was a member of the Knights of Columbus both in Tupper Lake and Junction City. He was an active member of St. Xavier Catholic Church.

Above all he was a family man. He was a loving husband, caring father, adoring grandfather, and loyal friend.

Gerard is survived by his loving family: wife Pierrette of Junction City, KS, formerly of Tupper Lake; his three sons, Pierre "Pete" J. Roberge of Junction City, KS, Daniel (Sandra) Roberge of Brewster, WA, and Fabien (Dawn) Roberge of Pueblo, CO; daughter, Sylvia (Craig) Witt of Fountain, CO; five grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and a host of loving family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Robert "Bob" Roberge.

To leave a condolence or share a special memory of Gerard, please visit www.johnsonJC.com.

Sandra L. Vermilya, 75

Sandra L. Vermilya, age 75, passed away on Tuesday, December 15, 2020, at her home in Conifer, NY. There will be no services at this time. All arrangements are under the care and direction of Frary-Stuart Funeral Home, Tupper Lake.

Sandra was born on January 22, 1946, in Massena, daughter of Richard and Rachael Brenell Dwight. She attended local schools. After graduation, Sandy went on to get many graduate degrees.

Sandra is survived by her loving spouse, John Ruskouski, and sister, Debbie Bogard. She is predeceased by her parents.

Sandra loved shopping for new clothes and shoes and cuddling with her cats.

Donations in Sandra’s memory can be made out to the SPCA, 6718 NY-68, Ogdensburg, NY 13669.

Online condolences can be made to www.fraryfuneralhomes.com.

Frank Scotti, 73

Frank Peter Scotti of Tupper Lake, passed away on Saturday, December 12, 2020, at the age of 73.

Frank was a devoted father. He is survived by his four children Jerry (Katie), Sarah, Frank (Andrew), and Julie (Jason). He is also survived by two grandchildren, Lucia, daughter of Jerry and Katie and Henry, son of Julie and Jason. Frank loved his children and grandchildren more than anything in the world.

He is predeceased by his brother, Jerry Scotti, his father, Arthur Scotti, his mother, Adele Scotti and wife, Susan (Bonnabeau) Scotti.

Frank was born on April 13, in Kingston N.Y., son of Arthur Scotti and Adele Gerbore.

After graduating Tupper Lake High School Frank moved to Chicago to train and work as an auto mechanic for Volvo. Following his time in Chicago, Frank joined the US Coast Guard where he worked in navigation and communications.

In 1975 he married Susan, a yearly visitor to Blue Jay Campsite. In the winter months, Frank helped run the ski school at Big Tupper Ski area. He loved being on the mountain and helping others learn to ski. Frank also worked at the Tupper Lake Central School district as a bus driver until his retirement.

From his third month of life to his passing, Blue Jay has been the central part of Frank and his family’s lives. Starting with a lodge and guest cabins through the transformation with his parents and brother into the campground we know today, Blue Jay has been more than a business. It is where he met his wife, raised his children and expanded his family to include generations of campers that span the country and the globe.

Frank enjoyed skiing, fishing, hunting and telling people how to do things the right way (a.k.a. his way). Frank has touched the lives of so many and he will be deeply missed.

A celebration of Frank’s life will take place on a future date.

Donations in Frank’s memory can be made to High Peak’s Hospice, P.O. Box 840, Saranac Lake, NY 12983.

Online condolences can be made at www.fraryfuneralhomes.com.

Holly Russell, 61

Holly Lynn Russell, age 61, of Tupper Lake, passed away unexpectedly at her home on December 5, 2020, in Tupper Lake. Services will take place on Friday, December 18 at 2p.m., at St. Alphonsus-Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Frary-Stuart Funeral Home.

Holly was born on September 2, 1959, at Carswell Air Force Base in Fort Worth, Texas. She was the daughter of Vernon Bieker, and Shirley (Burke) Bixby. Holly graduated from Tupper Lake High School and married Michael Russell on September 15, 1979. Together they raised three children; Michael Jr. Christina, and James.

Holly is survived by her husband Michael Russell; their children, Michael Jr., his wife Jessica and grandchildren Jenny and Tyler, of Tupper Lake; Christina Russell, of Tupper Lake; James and April Russell and their son Verne; of Johnsville, NY; sister, Tracye Snyder, and her husband, Tom, of Tupper Lake, brothers Randy Bieker, and his wife Valerie, Burleson Texas, as well as Michael and his wife Summer of Glen Rose Texas, and her father Vernon Bieker of Crowley Texas, and stepfather Larry Bixby of Sodus, NY, as well as a few aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

She is predeceased by her grandparents and mother, Shirley Burke Bixby.

Holly enjoyed waitressing for many years at Bob’s Steakhouse, Mason’s and the Swiss Kitchen, just to name a few. Anyone that worked with her would say she was so much fun to work with. Holly also worked for many years in the cafeteria at the Tupper Lake High School.

Holly enjoyed helping and giving to people. She was active in the church for many years as well as the Tupper Lake Football boosters, and the Tupper Lake Fire Department Women’s Auxiliary.

Donations in Holly’s memory can be made to the TL Food Pantry and Kiwanis Castle’s Toy Factory.

Online condolences can be made at www.fraryfunernalhomes.com.

N. Thelma “Tama” Valley, 94

N. Thelma “Tama” Valley, 94, of Schenectady died on December 4, 2020 at home with her children at her bedside.

Born in Hartford, Connecticut on April 15, 1926, she was the daughter of the late Claude Grignon and Mildred Amelia (Black) Grignon. She grew up in Tupper Lake and moved to Schenectady in her teens. She graduated from Nott Terrace High School.

She was a homemaker and loved taking care of her family.

Tama married Gerald Valley in 1948. They spent 58 years of marriage together, until his death in 2006. They now are reunited forever.

Tama was an avid gardener, loved butterflies and the color purple. She loved going to Tupper Lake every summer and camping at The Birches and later Blue Jay Campsite where she had many friends. She loved the Adirondacks.

Tama is survived by her children, Taire (Howard) Pulver of Georgia and Todd, her caregiver, (Katie) Valley of Charlton; grandchildren, Alan Pethick and Brent (Kim) Pethick both of TN, Cory (Keri) Pethick of GA, Natalie Valley and Hunter Valley, both of Charlton, and Jennifer (Joe) Vendetti of Schenectady; great grandchildren, Bella, Savana, Ava, Cody, and Payton Pethick, Brennan (fiancé, Serena), Lexi and Nadia Vendetti and great- great grandchild, Gino Vendetti.

The family would like to thank Schenectady Community Hospice for all of their help during this transition for our mother.

Memorial services will be held in the spring 2021 – date to be determined later.

Arrangements are entrusted to Griswold Funeral Home, 1867 State Street, Schenectady and for online condolences visit, sbfuneralhome.com.

Stella Marie Dawson-LaRochelle, 61

Stella Marie Dawson-LaRochelle, 61, mother of four, passed away at her home in Cadyville on December 1, 2020. A private service will be held at a future date at the convenience of the family. If you want to attend please contact one of her children. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Frary-Spaulding Funeral Home.

Mrs. LaRochelle was born January 2, 1959 in Saranac Lake to the late Veronica Martin and Edward Dawson.

She lived in Saranac Lake, Tupper Lake, Malone and then Cadyville. She worked as a home health aide for a number of years then became a cashier at Grand Union/Tops Supermarket in Tupper Lake and loved bringing joy to people's lives everyday.

She loved playing with her grandchildren, enjoyed cooking as well as watching movies and TV, and loved playing games on her tablet.

Stella was a dedicated loving mother and grandmother who loved making people feel good and bringing a smile to their face.

Stella is survived by her brother Perry Dawson; her four children Michael Theriault, Christina LaRochelle, Lora LaRochelle, and Rocky LaRochelle; and two grandchildren Brooklyn Boyea and Olivia Goldie.

Her children say: “Dear mom: You fell asleep without goodbye, But memories of you will never die.”

Condolences can be made at Fraryfuneralhomes.com.

Arthur Mitchell, 83

Arthur Gabriel Mitchell, age 83, passed away peacefully on December 3, 2020, at Mercy Living Center in Tupper Lake. Arthur was born on November 24, 1937, the son of Gabriel and Theda Austin Mitchell. As per Arthur’s request, there will be no services. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Frary-Stuart Funeral Home, Tupper Lake.

Arthur graduated from Tupper Lake High School in 1955. He married Patricia Gauthier on December 26, 1960. They made their home in Tupper Lake where they raised their four children. Arthur drove logging trucks in the area and was a member of the Teamsters Union. He drove for Anchor Motor Freight for several years. He also worked for various road construction companies in the North Country.

Arthur enjoyed working on and owning many old vehicles. He was an avid Nascar and NFL fan. He was a loving father and grandfather who enjoyed being with his family.

Arthur is survived by his ex-spouse, Patricia Mitchell, three daughters; Melissa Mitchell, of Tupper Lake, Amy Lavigne, of Crystal River, FL, and Lorri Beaudette, of Tupper Lake; seven grandchildren; Madeson, Adam, Dillon, Sarah, Chris, Mike and Katelynn and seven great grandchildren;. One sister-in-law, Janet Hodge and several nieces and nephews. Arthur is predeceased by his parents, Gabriel and Theda Mitchell, his son, David Mitchell and his brother Steven Mitchell.

Special thanks to Mercy Living Center for the excellent care he received. Arthur wanted to also thank Brian Kennedy, Billy Barton and Mike Hutchins for their help and friendship.

Donations may be made in Arthur’s memory to Mercy Living Center. 114 Wawbeek Ave, Tupper Lake, NY 12986 or the Tupper Lake Volunteer Ambulance and Emergency Squad, 169 Main Street, Tupper Lake, NY 12986.

Online condolences may be made at www.fraryfuneralhomes.com.

Brenda J. Parker, 73

Mrs. Brenda J. Parker, 73, of Lake Pleasant passed away on Saturday, October 10, 2020 in St. Mary’s Hospital, Amsterdam with her family by her side.

Brenda was born in Tupper Lake on June 22, 1947 the daughter of Richard and Alice (Demars) LaGrave. After high school, she graduated from what is now known as Jefferson Community College with a degree in secretarial studies.

On September 27, 1969 she married Douglas A. Parker in St. Alphonsus Church, Tupper Lake. Shortly after their marriage they moved to Lake Pleasant and Brenda started her career as the jail matron for the Hamilton County Jail. In 1982, she became the confidential secretary for her husband, the newly elected sheriff. This was a position she enjoyed until her retirement in 2009.

Brenda was a faithful communicant of St. James Church in Lake Pleasant and for several years she organized bus trips for the community to NYC and Atlantic City. Brenda always looked forward to their winter stays in Florida and their many excursions with their 5th wheel camper.

Brenda is survived by her husband of 51 years, Douglas A. Parker; their two children, Richard A. Parker of Auburn, N.Y., Laura Abrams (Sheriff Karl G. Abrams) of Piseco, five grandchildren, Rylie, Riordan and Shannon Parker of Auburn, Isabel and Parker Abrams of Piseco; a sister-inlaw, Janet Parker Ferren of Lichfield, NH; two brothers-in-law , Thomas Perkins of Speculator and Freeman Stuart of Tupper Lake, Also surviving are several nieces, nephews and grand nieces and nephews.

Along with her parents, Brenda, was pre-deceased by a granddaughter Margo Abrams, her sister Sally Stuart; a sister-in-law, Margaret Perkins and a brother-in-law, Donald Ferren.

A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated on October 17, 2020 at 11 am in St. James Church, Lake Pleasant. Interment was in Long Lake Cemetery, Long Lake.

Memorial contributions in Brenda’s name may be made either to Piseco Volunteer Ambulance, 1660 State Route 8, Piseco, NY 12139 or to Speculator Volunteer Ambulance, 2960 NY-30, Speculator, NY 12164. Arrangements were under the direction and care of the Northville Funeral Home. Condolences may be made to the family online at www.northvillefuneralservice.