Carl J. McGillis, 89
Carl J. McGillis, 89, of Tupper Lake, passed away peacefully on September 30, 2022. Carl is survived by his long-time significant other, Gertrude Clement; his sisters, Janice Pryor and family; Phillip and Ruth “Midge” Labrie and family, Thelma-Lawor and family, his Children; Charmaine and Kip LaScala; Sharon Norman; Daughter-in-Law Debbie McGillis; and his grandchildren Alex Ayotte, Kenneth LaScala, and Cam McGillis; Gertrude’s children, Cynthia and Jim Mulvana and family, Ann Marie and Edward Tripp and family, Mary Jane and Arthur Durfee and family, Jackie and Scott Stiles and family; and many nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.
Carl is predeceased by, his parents, George and Loretta McGillis; his sister Theresa and Hank Emory; his son John McGillis; his good friends Edwina Nolan, Eddie Leonard; and his step-grandson, Scott Baker.
Carl was born on May 28, 1933, in Tupper Lake NY, the son of George and Loretta McGillis.
To those who knew him well, he was referred to as “Skip”. Skip was well known around town, specifically for his work. Skip worked for several different construction companies and was a truck driver. He loved telling stories about his work days.
Skip enjoyed hunting and being outdoors, watching sports, a long time Colts fan, telling all kinds of stories, and of course, a great meal. Skip loved spending time with his grandchildren and building things for them to play with. He built them a treehouse in his backyard and every winter would construct a large mound of snow for them to play on.
Skip had the most contagious laugh that you could hear from anywhere. He was the most reliable person. If you called on Skip for anything, he was there. He was a joy to be around and had a nickname for everyone. To those who knew and loved him so well, you can hear the song that he would whistle while he doing just about anything.
The family will honor Carl’s wishes to not have a service at this time and they thank you for your condolences.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honor to the Tupper Lake Rescue Squad.
Stephen “Gus” Tice, 58
Stephen Damien “Gus” Tice passed away peacefully on September 30, 2022, at his home on Bellevue Terrace in Tupper Lake.
Stephen was born at Mercy General Hospital in Tupper Lake, on Sat., April 7, 1962, to Lois and Frank Tice.
Stephen was born at a time when children with Down Syndrome were often institutionalized, but his mother and father vowed to raise him alongside his six brothers and two sisters, who were waiting at home for their new baby brother.
Lois fought for Stephen to receive the same accessibility, programs, equality, and benefits as any child would receive during a time when there were no programs or services, or these resources were in their infancy.
Stephen spent his early childhood much like anyone raised in Tupper Lake— exploring and loving the outdoors. Every morning, he would go to work with his father, and a taxi would pick him up and bring him to school. Stephen had a charge slip at Joe LeBoeuf’s Store on Broad Street where he could get candy, ice cream, or a pop, and his father, Frank would stop by and pay the slip each week.
Everyone, throughout his life in New York and Florida, had a hand in loving and raising Stephen to be the ray of sunshine he was. Stephen always had a smile and wave for all of his friends.
In 1981, Lois and Frank retired and moved to Titusville, Florida. There, Stephen attended schools and programs in Brevard County, where he earned his IEP Diploma. He learned life skills, and to dance and create art. Upon earning his diploma, Stephen was employed at Burger King in Titusville, Fla. He worked there for years helping to keep the dining room clean and well-stocked.
Stephen participated in the Special Olympics in Florida throughout the 1980s and mid-1990s. He was a medal-winning swimmer and bowler. Stephen was also a Boy Scout and enjoyed participating in various outings and camping.
In 1999, Lois, Frank, and Stephen, moved back to Tupper Lake where Stephen continued his love for swimming, bowling and the arts.
Stephen was employed at McDonald’s, and later at St. Joseph’s Rehab. Center in Saranac Lake. Stephen volunteered his time for many local organizations and he was an active member of St. Alphonsus Church.
Upon retirement, Stephen enjoyed traveling around the country visiting his relatives. He flew alone on several occasions to visit his family in Tennessee, California, and Idaho.
Stephen was a life-long artist and crafter. He spent many hours making beaded creations at Newt and Karen’s studio downtown. If you received a beaded gift from Stephen, you should know that he loved you! Stephen also enjoyed volunteering for Meals on Wheels, going out to lunch, and shopping at local shops in the Tupper area with his friends Patti and Kay.
Stephen is survived by his brother Gary Tice, of Nashville, Tenn.; his brother John (Karen) Tice, of Saranac Lake, N.Y.; his sister, Mary (Scott) Chartier, of Tupper Lake; his sister-in-law, Cathy Tice of Tupper Lake; and his cousins MaryAnn Tebo of Tupper Lake, Ron Bovay of Herman, N.Y., and Charlotte Kowalski of Taylors, S.C.
Stephen has many nieces and nephews: Matt (Aimee) Tice, Australia; Eric Tice, Tennessee; Elizabeth (Scott) Watson, Idaho; Tori (Sava) Knezevich, California; Frank (Jen) Tice, Tupper Lake, N.Y.; Joe (Chantel) Tice, Texas; Nina (Chris) Hare, Tupper Lake, N.Y.; Kristen (Curtis) Hutchins, Saranac Lake, N.Y.; Jen (Nick) McKay, Lake Placid, N.Y.; Zach (Jenna) Chartier, Tupper Lake; and Jake Chartier, Washington. Stephen has 23 grand nieces and nephews who he adored and loved spending time with.
Stephen was predeceased by his parents, Franklin Joseph Tice | (1999), and Lois Evelyn O'Neil Tice (2015); his brothers, Patrick James Tice (1981); Paul Leon Tice (1988); David Mark Tice (1995); and Franklin Joseph Tice Il (2002); and his sister, Catherine Ann Tice Marler (2005).
In lieu of flowers or plants, please consider a donation to the Patrick Tice Memorial Scholarship or to High Peaks Hospice. Graveside Service will be held at the convenience of the family.
Stephen’s family would especially like to thank the wonderful, loving and caring staff at Bellevue Terrace where Stephen lived for the past couple of years.
Theresa Woulf
On September 21, 2022, Theresa Woulf made it home to be with “the love of my life,” Edward Woulf, and to be at peace in the arms of the Lord. She was 95, and died at her summer home, Patti and Thomas Amell’s, with her daughters Patti and Sheila helping her make her final journey.
Theresa was born on November 9, 1926 in Tupper Lake. She was the daughter of Soloman & Ella (LaBounty) Bashant. She grew up and graduated from Tupper Lake High School.
Theresa married Edward Woulf on September 27, 1948. They celebrated 61 years together. Edward predeceased her in August of 2009. She is survived by three children; a son, Douglas Woulf (Tina) of Palmetto, FL., two daughters Patti (Tom) Amell of Jensen Beach, FL (winters) and Tupper Lake (summers), and Sheila (James) Larkin of Tupper Lake. She has 18 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren.
Theresa was a housewife and partner with Ed developing the Downtown Trailer Park. She was an active member of the Holy Name Church. She was in St. Anne Society, a Catechism Teacher for many years and choir member. Her faith was strong and grew throughout her life and gave her courage throughout life’s many trials, especially in her last days.
Theresa lived on Washington Street until she was married. After a short stay with each of their parents they lived on Main Street for most of their life. Florida became a winter home after the children grew up.
In 1981, they sold the big house and moved to their camp on Paskungameh Road. After Ed’s death, she spent three years at the Woodlands before moving in with Sheila and Jim in 2012. For the last two years she spent summers with Patti and Tom.
Theresa loved her grandchildren – a sleep over to Gram and Gramp’s was a treat to look forward to. Through the years they came to visit them in Florida every spring. Great-grandchildren came and brought more joy and kept her involved as she aged.
Theresa was active in all intermural sports in High School and was an avid ice skater who performed in the Winter Carnivals. She took up downhill skiing and finally golf – where she excelled and was on the woman’s travel team.
Theresa was predeceased by seven brothers: Gordon, Norman, Lester, Howard, Kenny, Rolland, Floyd; and three sisters: Dorothy (Chichester), Myrtle, and Marion.
Calling hours will be today, Wednesday, September 28 at Frary Funeral Home from 11a.m. to 12:30p.m. followed by a Christian Mass at St. Alphonsus Holy Name Church at 1p.m. and a graveside burial at Holy Name Cemetery immediately following.
Donations in her name can be made to St. Alphonsus Holy Name Church or High Peaks Hospice.
Margaret Jonasch, 89
Margaret Kathryn Jonasch, 89, of Long Lake, passed away on Friday, September 16, 2022.
Margaret was born on August 8, 1933, in Glens Falls, NY, the daughter of Arthur and Frances (Goodman) Jennings.
Margaret was a 1951 graduate of Long Lake Central School. She attended Mildred Elley Secretarial School in Albany, N.Y., graduating in 1952. Margaret retired from Sunmount DDSO in 1990 after more than 20 years of service. After retirement, Margaret continued working as a Home Health Aide in Hamilton County. Margaret was a communicant of St. Henry’s Parish in Long Lake, NY.
Margaret is survived by her children, Mary Richer of Tupper Lake, Marilyn (Charles) Benware of South Glens Falls, Elizabeth (Mark) Forsell of Raquette Lake, and Cecile Bush of Long Lake, Brothers Stephen (Jackie) Jennings of Fort Ann, James (Virginia) Jennings of Long Lake.
She is survived too by her Stepchildren Stephen Wilkinson of Port Angeles, WA, Sharon (George) Lee of Ballston Spa, Debbie (Shawn) Szirbik of Clinton, CT, Philip (Cindy) Wilkinson of Yorktown VA, and Matthew (Helen) Wilkinson of Argyle, NY.
Margaret is also survived by her grandchildren- Johanna (John Ogborn and daughter Ethel) Bush, Ethan (Samantha Cook) Bush, Bridget (Dan Patrignani) Benware, Heather (Roman Skorko) Benware, Kathryn Forsell, Jennifer Forsell and Amanda (Michael) Prezbindowski and Great Granddaughter Remi Jean Prezbindowski. Margaret is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins. She is also survived by lifelong friends Luzerne Rockwell and Darleen (LaPell) Gauvin.
Margaret was predeceased by her parents, her daughter Johanna Mary Richer, son-in-law Randy Bush, her sisters Claire Chellis and Johanna Parsons. She was also predeceased by her husbands, Joseph Hervie Richer, Alanson Wilkinson and Carl Jonasch.
Margaret was a founding member of the Long Lake Gals Kazoo Band. Throughout the years, she enjoyed bowling, golfing, working on puzzles, reading, dancing, traveling, painting, socializing and trivia. She was a member of the Long Lake Historical Society. She also worked as a poll worker for the Hamilton County Board of Elections for 16 years.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, October 14, 2022, from 4p.m. to 7p.m. at St. Henry’s Parish Hall. A Funeral Mass will take place on Saturday, October 15, 2022, at 11:00 AM at St. Henry’s Church. A graveside burial will be held immediately following at the Long Lake cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to a charity of your choice.
Online condolences may be made to www.fraryfuneralhome.com
Joan Frechette, 89
On September 17, 2022 the Good Lord took our Mom/Wife/Grandma Joan Marie (Decheine) Frechette into his arms. She was 89 years old and died peacefully at her home on 5 Lincoln Drive, in Tupper Lake, after a long illness.
Joan was born November 2, 1932 in Tupper Lake. She was the daughter of Wilfred and Delia (Mayville) Decheine. She grew up in Tupper Lake and attended Holy Ghost Academy. She earned a bookkeeping degree from Albany Business College, graduating magna cum laude, not a surprise as she gave all of herself to everything she did in life.
Joan married the love of her life, Maurice Frechette on January 28,1952. Maurice survives her. They recently celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary. They raised nine children, all surviving, Mary (Jim Radimer), of Florida/Idaho, Claire (Wayne Temmen) of New Hampshire, John (Lynn Lavalley) of New Berlin, N.Y., Jane (Shawn Larkin) of Tupper Lake, Thomas of Florida, Julie (Chris Miller) of California, Richard (Laurie Colston) of Colorado, Tracy (Stuart Darrah) of Bloomingdale, and Jesse (Joe Salvatore) of Pennsylvania.
She is also survived by 16 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Joan used her bookkeeping skills working for her husband’s business company MJF Construction and eventually went to work for Adam Palmer as a receptionist. When they were in their 40’s, the couple moved to Tucson, Arizona where they lived and worked for several years. They eventually returned to Tupper Lake after several other moves, including Maine and Hawaii.
Joan was captain of the cheerleading squad while she attended Holy Ghost Academy. She dedicated herself to her husband and children, but found time to garden and sew, and enjoyed watching the birds at their feeder. She was a talented seamstress and made numerous quilts for her family and others that have been admired and treasured by all. She also was an avid reader and loved to bake, and was famous for her whoopie pies that everyone looked forward to when they came to visit.
Joan was such a selfless person, always putting others first. She had a fun sense of humor and enjoyed playing with the grandchildren when they visited. She always had a smile on her face and was kind and supportive and giving of herself.
She is survived by her sisters Phyllis and Sally Decheine, and is predeceased by her brother Steven Decheine, and her sister Joyce (Mervin Thomas).
Private services will be held to celebrate Joan’s life. Friends wishing to honor her may consider a donation to High Peaks Hospice.
Gertrude Mae “Trudy” (MacCauley) Otis, 91
Gertrude Mae “Trudy” (MacCauley) Otis, 91, passed away on September 2, 2022 at Ethan Allen Residence in Burlington.
She was born on March 12, 1931 in Lake Delta, NY, daughter of the late William and Lydia (Theriault) MacCauley.
She graduated Salutatorian in 1949 and was a cheerleader at Holy Ghost Academy in Tupper Lake.
Trudy married Joe Otis the same year and they enjoyed 68 years together. She loved journaling, word search puzzles, baking, and was active in Catholic Daughters and Home Demonstration.
She was employed for 15 years at IBM in Essex Junction. She also worked at the Alpine Shop, Christmas Loft, and was an Avon Rep. Trudy and Joe wintered in Big Pine Key, FL where they made many lifelong friends, and camped in Fish Creek with family and friends.
Trudy is survived by two sons, David and his wife Mary Ellen, Michael and his wife Gayle, four daughters, Pattie Lorraine and husband Michael, Paula L’Ecuyer and husband Steve, Jill Companion and husband Chris, Amy Otis, her brother Bill MacCauley and sister-in-law Pat. She is also survived by nine grandchildren, Jennifer Knauer and husband Tom, Joshua Otis and wife Sierra, Jessica Lorraine and Fiancé Gabe Johnson, Matthew Lorraine and wife Aleks, Randy Otis, Chelsea Otis and fiancé James Dawson, Samantha L’Ecuyer, Eric Raville, John Raville, 9 great grandchildren, many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Trudy was predeceased by her husband Arthur “Joe” Otis in 2018 and sister Alva Caron.
The family would like to thank the staff of Ethan Allen Residence and Bayada Hospice for their care during Mom’s stay.
Per Trudy’s wishes there will be no public visiting hours.
A graveside memorial service will be held on Monday September 26, 2022 at 11 a.m. in Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Randolph. Reverend Matthew Rensch will be offering prayers. Memorial contributions in Trudy’s memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, 55 Day Lane, Williston, VT 05495. The family invites you to share your memories and condolences by visiting www.awrfh.com.
Lynn Bly, 71
Lynn Louise Bly, 71, of Tupper Lake, passed away Sunday, September 4, 2022, surrounded by her loved ones. Lynn was born on February 2, 1951, to Joseph and Ethel Lawrence.
Lynn is survived by her sister, Deborah Lawrence of Castorland, N.Y., her daughters, Traci (Matthew) Southwick and Meaghan (Arthur) Sparks, both of Tupper Lake, Brooke (Eric) Hample of Long Lake and her grandchildren Taylor Kenniston, Aubrey and Anderson Sparks, Grace and Madelynn Southwick, her nephew Larry Rolley, and nieces Kelie Rust, Michele Herringshaw, Alesha Smith, Libee Mancini, Sirena Smith, and many great-nieces and great-nephews.
Lynn was predeceased by her parents, her sister, Dorothy Seafuse, and her great-niece Tessa Rae Rust.
Lynn attended Holy Ghost Academy and Tupper Lake High School where she was a cheerleader and member of the class of 1968. She went on to attend Hudson Valley Community College. While there, she joined Tau Beta Phi and was the pledge mistress. Lynn loved reminiscing about her sorority sisters and their shenanigans.
Lynn worked over 40 years at Tupper Lake National Bank and cherished her friendships and memories from that time. She retired in 2012.
To fulfill a lifelong dream, Lynn completed training and became an EMT. She was very proud of her service on the Tupper Lake Rescue Squad.
Lynn treasured time with her family. Holidays, baking, family dinners, dancing in the kitchen with her girls and playing catch with and celebrating New Year’s Eve with her grandkids were a few of her favorite things. She enjoyed reading a good book and doing her nails.
Lynn was an avid shopper with a fondness for clothes, shoes and watches. She was always up for a road trip and getaways with family and friends.
There was a special place in Lynn’s heart for her closest friends- Lynn Hurteau, Janice Connors, and Gail Auclair. Their many years of friendship were filled with memorable adventures. Anyone up for a run? ;)
Calling hours for Lynn will be held Thursday, September 8, 2022, from 6p.m. to 8p.m. at Frary Funeral Home in Tupper Lake. A funeral mass will take place on Friday, September 9, at 11a.m. at St. Alphonsus Holy Name Church in Tupper Lake. A graveside burial will follow at St. Alphonsus Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Northeastern New York chapter, 455 Patroon Creek Blvd., Suite 108, Albany, NY 12206 or www.cff.org/donate, or to the Tupper Lake EMS.
Online condolences may be made to www.fraryfuneralhome.com.
Ingeborg Beyer Sapp, 89
Plattsburgh resident Ingeborg Beyer Sapp, 89, died Tuesday night, August 23, 2022.
Ingeborg (Inge) Beyer was born on October 16, 1932 in Leipzig, Germany. At a young age she was exposed to the harsh reality of World War II and lived under the dreary conditions of East Germany after the war.
As a young girl she joined the local rowing club and quickly distinguished herself as an exceptional rower. Rowing races exposed her to life in West Germany and she yearned for the better life it offered.
On February 28, 1951, at the age of 18, she packed two pieces of luggage, kissed her parents goodbye and headed toward the border between East and West Germany. That night, between the changing of guards, she and a friend dashed across the border towards what they hoped would be a better life.
Many years later, at an outdoor Shakespeare play in West Germany, a chance encounter led to her meeting and eventually marrying her husband of forty years, Dr. Robert Wall Sapp. They had two children, Randolph (Andree) and William (Allison Burdette).
Inge traveled extensively throughout the United States and the World. Some of her trips included Hawaii, Alaska, China, Europe and Africa. Despite these travels, her favorite region was the North Country, especially the family camp on Eagle Crag Lake.
She was passionate about the Adirondacks and instilled a love of nature and the outdoors in her children and grandchildren. She shared her knowledge and experiences through her art, story telling, and books. She also authored wilderness poems known as Inge’s Notebook which were published weekly in the Tupper Lake Free Press for several years. Inge raised her family in Tupper Lake, before moving to Plattsburgh in 2001.
Inge was an avid dog lover and always had a dog beside her. Her most recent dog, Molly, was a rescue dog who she loved dearly. In addition, Inge was a keen observer of nature's creatures and it was not uncommon for her to help mend a wild bird or animal that was injured.
Inge strongly believed in giving back to the community and actively volunteered in numerous organizations during her lifetime. Some of these include: Friends of Mount Arab, Coordination of the Transport of Cancer Patients from Tupper Lake to Plattsburgh, Adirondack Mountain Club, Planned Parenthood of the North Country, Plattsburgh Public Library, and the League of Women Voters of the North Country.
She leaves five grandchildren: Maile Sapp, Everett Sapp, Hillary Burdette-Sapp (Taylor Warren), Hayes Burdette-Sapp and Harper Burdette-Sapp. Inge was predeceased by her husband Robert in 2001.
A celebration of life will be scheduled during the summer of 2023 in Tupper Lake. The family suggests donations to the League of Women Voters of the North Country or Friends of Mount Arab.
Todd H. Young, 58
Todd Howard Young, 58, passed away suddenly on Monday, August 29, 2022 at home. His parents and sister Jill were with him.
Born on December 16, 1963 in Tupper Lake, he was the son of George and Gale (LaValley) Young.
Todd was employed at the United States Post Office in Plattsburgh for several years until he left on Medical leave.
He had a great appreciation for the outdoors and enjoyed hunting and fishing. He often hunted with his father, brother Brad, and cousins Scott and Kurt and brother-in-law Jerry.
Todd was born hearing impaired. He learned how to lip read which led to wonderful conversations with many people he would see around his hometown. He also had great eye sight which allowed him to see wonderful things in the outdoors and also allowed him to see a record size white tail buck.
He is survived by his parents, George and Gale Young, two sisters, Jodie Laramie and her husband Jerry; Jill Parent and her husband Roy; three nieces, Laura Laramie, Kristen (Miguel) Chico; Brittany (Burnham) LaBarge and one nephew Tyler (Christine) Laramie; six great nieces, Nola, Avie, Cobi Chico, Brooke & Tess Laramie, Brynn LaBarge, and several aunts, uncles and cousins.
Todd was predeceased by one brother Brad, his materal grandparents, Ernest and Loretta (Gale) LaValley; paternal grandparents, George and Jeanne (Ouillett) Young.
Services and burial were held on Thursday, September 1, 2022, with Frary-Stuart Funeral Home.
James Farnsworth
James “Jim” E. Farnsworth, age 77, of Canton and formerly of Star Lake passed away on August 28, 2022 at his home.
Calling hours will be held at French Family Funeral Home in Star Lake on Thursday, September 1, 2022 from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. His funeral will be held on Friday, September 2, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial with military honors will follow at St. Hubert’s Cemetery. Condolences, memories and photos can be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.
Jim was born on March 20, 1945 in Star Lake to the late Arthur J. Farnsworth, Sr. and Esther (Pickering) Farnsworth. He graduated from Tupper Lake Central School and served in the United States Navy from August 5, 1964 until his honorable discharge on June 14, 1968. In the Navy, Jim was a nuclear sub tender on the USS Hunley.
He married the love of his life, Cynthia “Cindy” Varden, on August 16, 1969. Cindy passed away on December 5, 1986. Jim had worked at Altamont Milk Plant in Tupper Lake before beginning his career with Newton Falls Paper Mill. He worked there for many years, retiring as a Coater Operator. After retirement, Jim worked as a laborer for NYDEC where he was proud to learn how to operate a bulldozer.
Jim was an outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting as well as bow hunting, fishing and trapping. He was a founding member of Moose Head Mountain Club, a member of the Knights of Columbus, American Legion, and VFW. He had coached little league and above all, loved being Poppa to his grandchildren.
His survivors include his children, Penny (Bruce) Newton, James “Jim” (Starlight) Farnsworth, Chris (Andrea) Farnsworth and his beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is predeceased by his parents, his wife, Cindy Farnsworth, his brother, Arthur “Sonny” Farnsworth, and a granddaughter, Karissa Mae Barber.
Donations in memory of Jim may be made to the St. Lawrence County Cancer Fund, PO Box 291, Canton NY 13617.
Nancy Soucy, 58
Nancy M. Soucy, 58, passed away Tuesday, August 16, 2022 in Watertown N.Y.
Born in Canada on November 25, 1964, she was the daughter of Alphee and Cecile Soucy.
Nancy is survived by two brothers Marcel Soucy of Baldwinsville, Nelson and (Lynn) Soucy of Tupper Lake, one sister Linda and (Jim) Robinson of Baldwinsville; her favorite Uncle and Aunt Jean and Karen Soucy of Tupper Lake, as well as a very dear friend Robert Marshall and his family of Watertown. She is also survived by a daughter Natashia Soucy of Greece N.Y. and a granddaughter Nakieshia Reeves also from Greece NY.
Nancy was predeceased by her mother Cecile Soucy in 1982 and her father Alphee Soucy in 2001. She was also predeceased by one brother Yvan Soucy in December 2021.
There will be no calling hours per Nancy's request.
Donations can be made to the ASPCA in memory of Nancy.
Death notice: Todd Howard Young
Todd Howard Young passed away on Monday August 29, 2022. He was born on December 16, 1963 in Tupper Lake, New York. A viewing will be held at St. Alphonsus Church in Tupper Lake on Thursday September 1, 2022 at 10a.m. with a Catholic Mass at 11a.m. and burial immediately following. A full obituary will come out next Wednesday.
Robert “Budd” Russell, 90
Robert “Budd” Russell, age 90, passed away Tuesday, August 16th.
He was the son of Harold and Emma Pearl (Egglestone) Russell, born in Malone, N.Y. on October 2, 1931.
He is survived by his wife Joanne, son John (Sandy) Russell from New Jersey, Tim (Barb) Russell from Ohio, Kathy (Keith) Lanthier from Albany, N.Y., Angie (Shawn) Butler from Rome, N.Y. and Spencer (Audrey) Russell from Indiana, brother Earl (Chum) Russell and sister Janis Werner both from Farmington N.Y., several stepchildren, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Budd was predeceased by his daughter Dori Rachel Russell, wives Evelyn Lewis and Joan LaLonde, brothers Gerald (Jerry), James (Jim) and Patrick (Pat) and sister Barbara and grandson Jake Lanthier.
He grew up in Conifer and was likely to be found hunting, fishing, camping or walking in the woods surrounding the town during his adult life. He was an avid card player – a formidable bridge player – and he entertained everyone with mastery of card tricks and dad jokes. His other passion was dancing – winning contests with his spouses and dancing with his great granddaughters.
He was an active Moose club member, volunteering his time to bar-b-que for the members and families, rising to the status of a Pilgrim member.
Calling hours were noon to 2 on Monday the 22 at Frary Funeral Home followed by mass at St. Alphonsus Church. Burial followed at St. Alphonsus Cemetery.
Online condolences may be made to www.fraryfuneralhome.com
Thomas B. LaFountain
Thomas B. LaFountain, 76, of Malone died Saturday, Aug. 20, 2022 at his home with his husband by his side and under the care of Hospice of the North Country.
Born on Sept. 21, 1945 in Tupper Lake, he was the son of Arthur and Charlotte (Cassell) LaFountain.
He was married to William Lamica on July 4, 2022 in Malone by Melody from Catholic Charities.
Tom was employed as a custodian at Mercy Healthcare in Tupper Lake for many years. He enjoyed fishing, camping, coloring and helping out at the food pantry in Tupper Lake.
He is survived by his husband and partner of 45 years, William; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Benny and Donna Lamica of Burlington, Roy and Michelle Lamica of Brushton, Mary Proper and her companion, Mike of Cadyville, Rosie Burnett of Florida and several nieces and nephews.
The family would like to give to special thanks to Tom’s caregivers, Nancy LaMondie, Trudy Kunkle and Jackie Rowe and his nurses, Cindy and Janelle.
He was predeceased by his parents; brothers, Rudolf and Kenny and sister, Madeline.
Calling hours will be held at the First Baptist Church, Malone on Monday, Aug. 29 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. A funeral service will immediately follow at 12 p.m.
Donations in his memory may be made to Hospice of the North Country.
Arrangements are with St. Mary-Murphy-Wilcox Funeral Home. Online condolences may be offered at www.chateaugayfuneralhome..
Gary Lee Smith
Gary Lee Smith of Childwold, N.Y., passed at his home on August 10, 2022 with his sister Sharon Dukette by his side.
Gary was born on February 21, 1945 in Potsdam, N.Y .to Glenn and Jean (McCuen) Smith. They both preceded his death.
Gary is survived by his daughter, Emily, and his two sons William and Joshua. They were the center of his life.
Gary was preceded by his wife Mary, who passed on July 28, 2021. He was also preceded by his brother and his sister-in-law Wayne (Skip) and Janice Scanlon.
He is survived by several nieces and nephews, who will all miss him. Gary lived his whole life in Childwold and worked several local jobs – Massawepie Scout Camp, Grosse River Club, Benson Mines, and Sunmount, from which he retired.
There will be no public service as requested by Gary. At a later date a graveside service will be held for family.
Matthew Kessler, 51
Matthew James Kessler, 51, of Tupper Lake, NY, unexpectedly passed away on August 10, 2022, from a fast and furious bout with cancer. He was born in Newark, N.Y., on November 19, 1970, to Patricia (Copp) Santana and Harold Kessler.
He leaves behind his daughters, Leigha and Harlee Kessler, his beloved companion of 18 years, Kellee (McCuen) Crouse, and her daughters, Amanda (Ron) LaScala, Brenna Crouse, her companion Joel Ottley & Victoria (Rick) Pickering, his brothers Mike and Ronnie Barber, Scott Tarplee, his companion Christina Hughes, John (Sue) Tarplee, his sister Katie Santana, her companion Jim Ellis, as well as, several nieces, nephews, grandchildren, along with many other family members and friends that he cared for very much.
Matt was a true mountain man. He loved going out into the Adirondack wilderness to hunt, fish, boat and camp on the river and taking ATV trips. Always the life of the party, he loved having his friends and family around him.
Matt will live on in our hearts and memories and forever be missed. There was a celebration of life held at his home, 40 Demars, Blvd., Tupper Lake, NY, this past Saturday, August 13th.
Anyone wishing to honor Matt’s memory please consider donating blood. He was very thankful for the blood that was available to him in his time of need.
Mary Jo Dickerson, 59
Mary Jo Dickerson, 59, died peacefully at her home, 861 Deerland Drive, Long Lake, July 23, 2022 after a long hard fought battle with cancer.
Born in Plattsburgh, N.Y., December 24, 1962 she was the daughter of Marshall, Jr. and Myrna (Cassavaugh) Dickerson.
Mary Jo is survived by her husband, Patrick Skerrett, her mother, one son, James Mitchell, two brothers, Marshall (Tammy Cross) and Maxwell (Crystal Gowdy) Dickerson, one “extra special” sister, Dale Potter, two grandsons, Zachary and Marshall Mitchell, one niece, Miley Dickerson, and “like a brother” Billy Gay, three step children, Lyndsay Austin, Stephen and Thomas Skerrett.
She was predeceased by her father and one granddaughter, Zoey Mitchell.
After graduating Elizabethtown-Lewis Central School in 1980, Mary Jo attended SUNY Plattsburgh, NY receiving her Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics in 1984 and Master of Science in Administration in 1989. She taught Home Economics for 13 years at Warrensburg High School, Early Childhood Development at Saratoga BOCES, Principal at Mineville BOCES, and Principal/Superintendent at Long Lake Central School, and retired from an administrative position at FEH Malone in 2017 and returned to Long Lake to “live her dream.”
Mary Jo was a member of Long Lake Rescue Squad, Eastern Star and Lions Club. Her ambitions and determination to succeed were unique and stemmed from her early years in involvement in 4-H always using the motto “busy hands are happy hands.” She enjoyed baking, sewing, hydroponic gardening, her horse and dogs, spent quality time teaching children, and loved all her activities on the lake.
A graveside service will be held at Reber Cemetery, Reber Rd., Willsboro, N.Y., Saturday, August 6 at 10 a.m.
Donations in Mary Jo’s memory may be made to Long Lake Rescue Squad, Box 415, Long Lake, NY 12986
Patrick D. McLear, 74
Patrick D. McLear of Tupper Lake, NY passed away on Monday July 25, 2022, at the age of 74. After several months of bravely battling pancreatic cancer, Pat died peacefully with his beloved wife Mary and family by his side.
Pat was born in Tupper Lake, NY on January 6, 1948, to Edgar and Gloria (Lemieux) McLear. The eldest child, he attended local schools, graduating from Tupper Lake High School in 1966. He was proud that he served his country in the US Army Reserves between 1968 and 1974. Pat worked at the Altamont Milk Company prior to being hired by the Village of Tupper Lake where he served on the local police force. He then took a position as a fire truck driver for the Village in 1972 and held that job until his retirement in 2000.
On April 26, 1969, Pat married the love of his life, Mary Boushie. Mary and Pat had been together since 7th grade. They remained lifelong residents of Tupper Lake raising two sons, Jason and Scott.
Throughout the years Pat was very involved in the community he loved so much. He was a volunteer fireman for the Tupper Lake Fire Department for 30 years, serving as Fire Chief for many years. Pat was elected as Town of Altamont Justice of the Peace in 1985, serving in that role for 15 years. He also was a past board member and President of the Tupper Lake Country Club. In addition, he was a member of the local American Legion Post 220.
Anyone who knew Pat, knew how much he loved his family. He is survived by his wife Mary, of 53 years, son Jason and daughter-in-law Becky of Rancho Cucamonga, California, son Scott and daughter-in-law Kate of Niskayuna, NY; his grandson Thomas, of Denton, Texas; his beautiful granddaughters Emma McLear and Lauren McLear of Niskayuna, NY; brother Dean McLear and wife Janice of Colchester CT; brother Kevin McLear and wife Francine of Ocala, FL and sister Dawn (McLear) Hughes of Tupper Lake; and countless extended family and friends. All held him in the highest regard and loved him dearly.
Services will be on Tuesday August 2, 2022, from 11:30am to 1:30pm at the Frary Funeral Home, 24 Cliff Ave in Tupper Lake NY. There will be a mass at 2:00pm at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church with burial to follow at St. Alphonsus Cemetery. Family and Friends are welcome to join in a celebration of life at the VFW in Tupper Lake after the services.
Those wishing to make donations please consider the Tupper Lake Rescue Squad or High Peaks Hospice.
George LaFlamme
George Edward LaFlamme of Tupper Lake, passed away peacefully at home with his devoted wife and family by his side on July 20, 2022.
George LaFlamme, the son of George and Emma (LaFountain) LaFlamme, was born on March 13, 1935 in Tupper Lake.
George served in the United States Army and worked in the logging industry up until age 86.
In 1957 he married the love of his life and best friend, Alice Exware. They lived together almost inseparable for over 65 years. George was a patriarch to his family, an amazing husband, father, grandfather and friend to all. He had an immense amount of love for his family that was admired by many.
George is survived by his son George Junior (Anna) LaFlamme, Daughter Debbie (Charles) Mitchell, Daughter Susan (Ronald) Alan, and bonus daughter Trish (Nicholas) Leblanc. He was fortunate enough to have 17 grandchildren and 34 great grandchildren. He was predeceased by both parents, son Alan LaFlamme, daughter Penny (Lanthier) LaFlamme, brothers; Raymond, Percy and Leon, sisters; Annabelle and Ruth, and grandson Ricky Pickering.
George will be deeply missed and forever in the hearts of all the many who loved him.
Per his request there will be no services and a private burial at a later date.
Donald Lee Savard, 78
Donald “Don” “Doc” Lee Savard, 78, of rural Harrison, Michigan passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family on Friday, July 8, 2022.
Donald was born April 27, 1944, in Tupper Lake, New York, the son of Leon and Gladys (Boucher) Savard.
Mr. Savard enlisted in the United States Navy on October 11, 1961, and honorably served his country until his honorable discharge on April 29, 1965.
Don was united in marriage to Patricia Hayes on June 30, 1972. Patricia preceded Don in death on September 28, 2012, after forty years of marriage.
Mr. Savard had resided in Harrison since 2005, moving from Garden City, Michigan. He retired from UPS as a truck driver. Don was a member of the American Legion Post 404, Harrison and Harrison Moose Lodge and Family Center #2235. He enjoyed golfing, boating, fishing, bird watching from his porch, cooking and watching televised golf tournaments and football games.
Surviving Mr. Savard are his two children: Renee Ruggiero of Harrison and Donald O. Savard of Elmira, New York, one step-daughter, Lori Zalewski and husband Andrew of Garden City, seven grandchildren, three great-grandsons, one sister, Marie Kraft of Aurra, Colorado, one brother, Roy Savard of Tupper Lake, plus many nieces, nephews and extended family. Don also was preceded in death by his parents, one step-son, Dean Savard, one sister, Evelyn Savard and five brothers: Edward Savard, Richard Savard, Robert Savard, Jim Savard and Sonny Savard.
Funeral services for Mr. Savard were held Thursday, July 14, 2022 at 3p.m. from Clark-Stocking Funeral Chapel and Cremation Service Inc., 165 West Oak St., Harrison, Mi. 48625, with Monsignor Francis B. Koper officiating. Visitation took place Thursday, July 14, 2022 from 12:00 p.m. until time of service. Military Honors and burial were held Monday, July 18, 2022 at 9a,n, from Great Lakes National Cemetery, Holly, Michigan. Memorial gifts in memory of Don may be considered to the Savard Family, in care of: Renee Ruggiero. To share an online memory or condolence with Don’s family, please visit: www.clarkstocking.com.
Arrangements and care of Mr. Savard and his family are entrusted with Clark-Stocking Funeral Chapel and Cremation Service Inc., Harrison (989)539-7810.