Dr. William Camil Maroun
Dr. William Camil Maroun passed away peacefully on February 27th at Adirondack Medical Center with his family by his side. Warmly known as “Bill,” he was born on February 16th, 1937, to Camil and Nafie Maroun in Tupper Lake where he was raised along with his three brothers, Majeed, Camil Jr. (JJ) and George.
Bill attended Holy Ghost Academy and upon graduation attended LeMoyne College and Georgetown Dental School. Bill spent four years as a Captain in the Air Force practicing dentistry with most of that time serving in Spain, with the fondest of memories.
In 1966, Bill married Julia R. Hershman at St. Alphonsus Church in Tupper Lake and started his dental practice of 52 years serving Tupper Lake and surrounding communities. He served on the Board of Education as President for a number of years at TLSCD as well as serving as Board President for Tupper Lake National Bank. In addition to his daily walks, Bill loved to ski (mostly at Big Tupper), play tennis, and was an avid golfer where he could be seen most days of the week at the Tupper Lake Country Club with a club in his hand and a smile on his face.
Bill lost his wife, Julie, in 1986 and took to raising his children with compassion, love and kindness. Life lessons he taught his children included finding joy in simplicity, practicing resilience and strength, and loving and supporting family in times of need. Bill is survived by his children, Arthur C. Maroun of Rutland, VT., Camelia Maroun Sheridan of Lake Placid, and Sarah Maroun Geil (Kevin) of Vermontville, his grandchildren, Julia and Savannah Maroun, Sarah Mae Sheridan and Nadia Geil, his partner of over 30 years, Carol Fuller, his brother, Camil Jr. (JJ) Maroun, his uncle George Moses and numerous loving nieces and nephews and cousins who adored him and will carry his stories and passion for living forward.
Calling Hours will be held at Frary Funeral Home in Tupper Lake, NY on Thursday, March 2nd, from 3PM-7PM and Christian Mass at St. Alphonsus Church in Tupper Lake on Friday, March 3rd starting at 12PM.
Fredolyn A (LaVallee) Mitchell
Fredolyn passed away while being cared for at Mercy Living Center, Tupper Lake N.Y where she had been residing since December of 2021.
She was the daughter of the late Bill and Edith LaVallee. She was preceded in death by her husband Vincent (7-7-2010) after 60 years of marriage. She was also preceded in death by four siblings: Jean Sparks, Judy Churco, John LaVallee, and Bill LaVallee.
Fredolyn was a devoted mother, grandmother and great grandmother. She was the epitome of a true home maker. Her talents were expressed daily in caring for her home and family. She enjoyed baking, cooking, sewing, and knitting.
Her business sense was evident in the dress shop she owned as a young woman before marriage, a seasonal soft ice cream stand she owned and ran with her husband for 10 years, and later a yarn & gift shop. She later worked as the Deputy Clerk for the Town of Altamont from which she retired.
Fredolyn has one surviving sister Ann Beauchamp (Dick) of Tupper Lake. Her five children; Ann Hoover (Bill) of Lititz, PA, Collette Choate (Matthew) of Tupper Lake, Paul Mitchell (Mary) of Tupper Lake, Donna LaMere (Chris) of Tupper Lake, and Danielle Poirier (Kathy) of North Fort Myers FL. She also leaves behind nine grandchildren and five great grandchildren.
The family would like to thank the staff of Mercy Living Center for the care they provided our Mom.
Funeral Services are planned for Friday, February 24, 2023. Calling hours are 12 – 2pm at the Frary Funeral Home and a funeral mass at St. Alphonsus Church at 2:30pm in Tupper Lake.
Clifford Seney
Clifford Seney, 95, of Newcomb NY, passed away at The Pines Nursing Home in Glens Falls NY on 2/16/2023 surrounded by loving family members, after a sudden and brief illness.
He was predeceased by his wife Shirley Seney [Gaff], brothers Robert, Clifton, and Lawrence, and sisters Agnes, Theresa, Cecile, and Marie. Clifford is survived by his sons Richard (Sherry) Seney, Clifford (Linda) Seney, Raymond (Renée) Seney, Michael (April) Seney and his daughters Mary Seney, and Kathlene (Jordan) Seney-Williams. He is also survived by thirteen grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
Clifford was born on December 6, 1927 to Loren and Lena (Hart) Seney on a small farm in Saranac, NY.
Upon leaving his childhood home, he began working for NL Industries in Tahawus, NY, where he retired after 42 years of dedicated employment. He enjoyed hunting with family members in the Adirondack Mountains during his younger years.
Clifford was known for his pleasant smile and easy-going nature towards anyone he met. After his retirement, he would often be seen walking to other retirees’ homes to share coffee and company. If he wasn’t visiting others, he would enjoy a walk down to the local golf course for coffee and a snack, where he enjoyed listening to the local discussions and news. While not being a fluent conversationalist himself, he always enjoyed listening to his family and friends talk, share stories, and tell jokes, often laughing until tears flowed. The staff at his nursing home said Clifford always greeted them with a pleasant smile whenever they entered his room. He will be missed by everyone that knew him.
Calling Hours will be held at Frary Funeral Home in Tupper Lake, NY on Thursday, February 23rd from 12PM – 2PM with Mass following at St. Alphonsus Church starting at 2:30PM.
Arleen (Jiggs) Ann (Miller) Young
Arleen (Jiggs) Ann (Miller) Young passed away on February 9, 2023 in Plattsburgh, New York after an illness. She was surrounded by family.
Arleen was the eldest daughter of Andrew Thomas Miller and Mary Helen (Seery) Miller born July 26, 1948 in Tupper Lake, NY where she grew up.
Family was of the upmost importance to Arleen. She had a great relationship with her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, brothers and sisters, and many nieces and nephews. She enjoyed video chatting with her family on her Portal.
She was predeceased by her parents Andrew Thomas Miller and Mary Helen (Seery) Miller. She is survived by her daughters Darcy Young of Vermont, and Lorna (Young) Rooney and her husband Kevin of North Carolina. Her grandchildren Anthony Nichols, Jr and Desiree (Nichols) Smirnov and her partner Vladimir of Vermont, Kaitlyn Rooney and her partner Kayla Miele of Connecticut, and Christopher and Zoe (Legace) Rooney of Italy. Her brothers Wayne Miller and his wife Catherine (Morse) of Tennessee, and Michael Miller and his wife Judy (Barnum) of Arizona. Her sisters Shirley (Miller) and her husband James Connor of New York, and Bonnie (Miller) and her husband Rene Harris of Indiana. As well as three great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
Arleen did not want any services; and the family is planning a memorial in her honor this the summer.
In lieu of flowers please donate in Arleen’s name to either the American Cancer Association, or your local Meals on Wheels.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the R.W. Walker Funeral Home in Plattsburgh, New York.
Barbara June Charland
Barbara June Charland passed away after a brief illness on February 17th at Elderwood of Uihlein at Lake Placid where she had been a resident since August 2022.
"June", as she was known to family and friends was born June 4th, 1938 in Tupper Lake to Henry and Rena Peets.
June attended Holy Ghost Academy, graduating in 1956.
In 1959 June married Paul Arthur Charland at St. Alphonsus Church in Tupper Lake.
June worked for many years in the business office at Mercy General Hospital, retiring in 1999.
June was predeceased by her husband Paul of 53 years, in 2012.
She is survived by her children, Paula Lanthier (Kevin) of Saranac Lake, NY, Cynthia Sweeney (John) of Saranac Lake, NY, and Patrick Charland (Kathleen) of Milford, CT.
She is also survived by the grandchildren she adored Will Lanthier of Brooklyn, NY, Nicholas Sweeney of Saranac Lake, NY, Madison Sweeney of Saranac Lake, NY and Camden Charland of Milford, CT.
June was a very talented knitter, most everyone she knew was the recipient of one of her creations. Baby hats were her specialty. June donated many hats over the years to the maternity department of The Adirondack Medical Center as well as to The Saranac Lake Holiday Helpers.
One of June's favorite pastimes later in life was to hang out with her "coffee gang". Many happy hours were spent with her friends enjoying each other's company at The Swiss Kitchen in Tupper Lake.
Funeral arrangements are with the Frary Funeral Home in Tupper Lake. Calling hours will be held on Monday, February 27th from 11:00am to 1:00pm followed by a mass at St. Alphonsus Church at 1:30pm.
Donations in June's honor can be made to Elderwood of Uihlein at Lake Placid's Activities Department. The family wishes to thank The Unit 2 Staff at Elderwood for taking such good care of our mother and grandmother these past six and a half months. We appreciate the care and compassion you have shown to her. We will be forever grateful.
George J. Young, 86
George J. Young, 86, of Tupper Lake passed away on Friday February 10, 2023.
George was born on October 26, 1936 in Tupper Lake, the son of George and Jeanne (Ouellet) Young.
George is survived by the love of his life Gale LaValley Young. They were married on November 5, 1960.
He is also survived by two daughters, Jodie (Jerry) Laramie and Jill (Roy) Parent, one sister Rita Larabie, three granddaughters Laura Laramie, Kristen (Miguel) Chico, Brittany (Kyle) LaBarge, one grandson Tyler (Christine) Laramie, and six great-granddaughters.
George was predeceased by his two sons, Todd and Brad, his parents George and Jeanne (Ouellet) Young and four sisters Ruth, Janice, Kate, and Rena.
Most important to George was the love of his family. George also had a great sense of humor. He was also a hard worker and was employed and retired from the Tupper Lake School District.
George loved to hunt, fish, and garden. He loved making jam, pickles, and donuts with his wife Gale. He loved sharing his vegetables from his garden and homemade jam with family, friends, and neighbors.
Visitation will be on Wednesday February 15, 2023 from 11a.m. to noon, with a funeral mass to immediately follow at St. Alphonsus Church.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Tupper Lake Rescue Squad and Life Flight.
Jeffrey “Jeff” LaBarge, 67
Jeffrey “Jeff” Charles LaBarge, 67, died Thursday, February 9, 2023 at his home in Kings Mountain, NC, surrounded by family. Raised in Tupper Lake, he was the son of the late Berton Elwood and Louise Knox LaBarge.
Jeff managed the Dixie Lee Restaurant in Tupper Lake before continuing his education at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY.
He worked at several jobs before becoming the Chef Instructor and Program Director for the Culinary Department at Central Piedmont Community College in Charlotte, NC for 26 years.
Jeff was passionate about the culinary arts and enjoyed mentoring his students, many of whom went on to great successes in the field.
He is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Nell Lee LaBarge; brother, Jay LaBarge and wife, Sandy of Syracuse, NY; sister, Cherie Bourque and husband Yvan of Watertown, NY; sister-in-law, Ansley Mays and husband Walter of Cornelius, NC; brother-in-law, Bill Lee of Charlotte; nieces, Ashley Lemoine and husband Billy, Kara LaBarge Durkin and husband Patrick, Brandon Lee Lance and husband Joe, Katie Kromjong and husband Jon and Maggie Lee Leitch; nephews, Ivan Bourque and Christopher Bourque and wife Marci; several great nieces and nephews.
A service will be held in late spring at Myers Park Presbyterian Church, Charlotte, NC, with a celebration to follow. Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to the Tri-Lakes Humane Society.
Stephen Paul Whitley
A tribute: How do we say goodbye? Our lives changed forever on Friday February 10th, 2023.
Stephen Paul Whitley, 34, was born in Saranac Lake, on January 3rd, 1989. Our family will never know which pain is worse: the shock of his death or the ache for what will never be. Known by all who loved him as “Paul”, he was an artist, a dreamer, a lover of nature, a genius, and a comedian whose life truly was too big for this world. Everyone he met instantly became his best friend, and he leaves a legacy of generosity that knows no bounds.
Left to keep his memory alive are his wife Annie of Elizabethtown, his parents Stephen and Pamela Whitley, his beloved sons Ryker and Maddox, grandparents Tom and Peggy Callaghan and Gloria Gravlin, siblings Vanessa (Brad) Methot, Meagan (Bryan) Lucey, and Eric (Mckenzie) Whitley. In addition to that he leaves behind his nieces and nephews; Alyssa, Riley, Hayden, Jackson, Hunter, Aubreigh, Chloe, Abel, Bryson, and Kemper. He also leaves a special bond behind with his many cousins and aunts and uncles. Stephen Paul is predeceased by two of his grandfathers; David Whitley and Bill Williams, and his uncles; Dallas Whitley and Neil Charron.
Stephen Paul: we will keep your memory alive through the stories we share with each other, the laughter you left behind, the love you shared with us all, but especially with the life we share with your children. We are shattered that our lives have to go on without you, and we will never be the same. Your family and friends will mourn this incomprehensible loss for the rest of our lives.
Calling Hours will be held at Frary Funeral Home in Tupper Lake on Tuesday, February 21st from noon to 2p.m. with Mass following at St. Alphonsus Church starting 2:30PM.
John “Neil” Shofi, 92
John “Neil” Shofi, 92, of Ridgefield, CT, formerly of White Plains and Harrison, N.Y., passed away on February 3, 2023.
He was born in Brooklyn, N.Y. on December 28, 1930 to Charles and Adiba Shofi (nee Alexander). He and his family moved to White Plains where he attended public school and graduated from the White Plains High School. He attended New York University from where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science diploma from the School of Commerce, Accounts and Finance.
Immediately thereafter Neil proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. After service Neil went on to own and operate the town’s beloved Harrison Sport Shop for over 45 years with his brother, Robert Shofi (“Bob”).
Soon after opening the Sport Shop, Neil met the love of his life, Marie Sloat of Harrison, N.Y. They were married in 1962 and moved to Silver Lake where they brought up three sons, who were his pride and joy.
Neil was known for his inquisitive personality, gentle demeanor and easy smile. He was a proud member of the Harrison VFW and loved marching in parades with his colleagues. He volunteered for and adored the camaraderie of his friends in the Rotary Club of Harrison and Tupper Lake, living their motto: “Service above Self”.
He also volunteered for other organizations including Babe Ruth Baseball, Meals on Wheels and St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church in White Plains. Neil loved to spend part of his summers with his family in Tupper Lake where they ran a lakefront rental business called “Three Pillars.” Mostly, Neil was most happy when he was with his family and friends, often over a wonderful meal.
Neil was predeceased by his beloved wife, Marie in 2016. He is survived by his loving children, John N. Shofi, Jr. (Constance) of Fredericksburg, VA, David Shofi (Leanne) of Ridgefield and Brian Shofi (Ruthie) of Ocean City, MD, cherished grandchildren, Elizabeth, Jack, Aislinn, Michael, Mallory, James, Peter and Luke, step grandchildren Shannon, Ryan and Claire and step-great-grandchildren, Ryleigh, Reagan and Reese. He was predeceased by his parents and brother Bob.
To honor Neil’s life, family and friends will gather on Friday from 4-8p.m. at Coxe & Graziano Funeral Home, Mamaroneck. A Funeral Service will be held 10a.m. Saturday at St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church in White Plains, interment will follow at Kensico Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Beverly Whaley
Beverly Whaley died from Pancreatic Cancer on January 31, 2023. She was born in Detroit, Michigan. After living in eight states, she found her true home in the Adirondacks.
Bev’s focus was always on the “other” and not herself. The most important thing in her life was the immeasurable love for family and friends. Over and again family members would mention how her intentional kindness was a model for them.
Second only to her love of others was her amazement for God’s creation that surrounded her home.
WHEN DESPAIR FOR THE WORLD GROWS IN ME
AND I AWAKE IN THE NIGHT AT THE LEAST SOUND
IN FEAR OF WHAT MY LIFE AND MY CHILDREN’S LIVES MAY BE,
I GO AND LIE DOWN WHERE THE WOOD DRAKE RESTS IN HIS BEAUTY ON THE WATER, AND THE GREAT HERON FEEDS.
I COME INTO THE PEACE OF WILD THINGS WHO DO NOT TAX THEIR LIVES WITH FORETHOUGHT OF GRIEF,
I COME INTO THE PRESENCE OF STILL WATER.
AND I FEEL ABOVE ME THE DAY-BLIND STARS WAITING FOR THE LIGHT.
FOR A TIME I REST IN THE GRACE OF THE WORLD,
AND AM FREE.
(Wendell Berry, The Peace of Wild Things)
She is survived by her husband, Ross; three children, Heather, Susan and Lindsay and their spouses; eight grandchildren, Wesley, Megan, Blake, Hannah, Cora, Duncan Hope and Austin and their spouses; great grandchild, Tupper; and beloved nieces and nephews Kirstin, Melanie, Dan and Steve and their families.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests those who want to give make a gift to cancer research. Bev’s favorite was Kicksforcancer1.org
Theresa Bedard Albatys, 102
Theresa Bedard Albatys, 102 (and almost ½ because every quarter counts at this age, as she would say), passed away peacefully at home on January 12, 2023.
Born on August 3, 1920 in Moose Creek, Ontario, Canada she came to Tupper Lake in 1923.
She was a loving mother, homemaker, and independent woman. Theresa enjoyed traveling both foreign and domestic. She could shop like no other.
Theresa is survived by her sons Roger (Diane) Bedard of Tupper Lake, Michael (Nancy) Bedard of Port Charlotte, Florida/Plattsburgh and a daughter, Ann (Brian) Hollenbeck of Rotonda West Florida/Tupper Lake. She is also survived by six grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, one brother Edgar LaFrance and one sister Sally Andres as well as several nieces and nephews.
She is predeceased by Norman Bedard and Edward Albatys, her parents Lionel and Henrietta (Leroux) LaFrance, two grandsons, Raymon Bedard and Neil Hollenbeck, three brothers, John, Robert and Andrew, six sisters, Peggy LaFrance, Lena LaFrance, Rhea Coleman, Rolande Gaff, Madeline LaFountain and Simone LaBarge.
Internment will take place at St. Alphonsus Parish Cemetery, Tupper Lake at the convenience of the family in the spring.
Those wishing to make memorial contributions are asked to consider Hospice.
Dorothy M. Jackson
Dorothy M. Jackson of Tupper Lake, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, January 28, 2023.
Dottie was born January 30, 1935 in Washington D.C. She was the daughter of Joseph and Margaret (Baldwin) Jackson. The family moved north to Coreys shortly after the death of her father. Dottie grew up in Coreys in the home of her grandparents.
She loved her Irish-born grandmother and listening to her sing songs in Gaelic. She loved ice skating on the pond in Coreys. Dottie attended the local public schools in Saranac Lake and Tupper Lake.
Dottie was married to Edward Thibodeau and they raised five children. She and her longtime companion, Jean-Paul LaPolice, spent many happy years together.
Dottie spent her early years as a housewife. She was a nanny for a time for the Allen family. She also worked at the Adult Center. She loved spending time with her children and she was proud of her grandchildren. Dottie loved to walk around the four-mile square and stop to see the horses. She loved her plants, Elvis, John Wayne, and visiting with her many friends at Don Smith Apartments. Coffee hour was her favorite time to visit.
Dottie was predeceased by her parents, her siblings; Jack, Midge, Bill, and her son, Jim Thibodeau.
Dottie is survived by her children Bill (Jennie) Thibodeau of Tupper Lake, Susan (Frank) Thibodeau of Ronkonkoma, NY, Richard Thibodeau of Stamford, CT and Dawn Thibodeau of Tucson, AZ, as well as her grandchildren Kody, Heidi, Miles, Alex, Anastassia and Conan.
Funeral arrangements are with the Frary Funeral Home. Calling Hours will be on Saturday, February 4 from 11a.m. to 1p.m.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Tupper Lake Rescue Squad or the Tupper Lake Food Pantry.
Gary J. Plumley, 85
Gary J. Plumley, 85, of Jensen Beach, FL, died peacefully, January 17, 2023. He was predeceased by his wife, Carol, of 62 years, who passed in February 2021.
Born on December 12, 1937, to the late Kenneth and Elizabeth (Vaughn) Plumley. Gary was a graduate of Tupper Lake High School class of 1957. He served our country during the Korean war with the U.S. Army. Gary enjoyed the outdoors and photography.
Gary is survived by his four children: Jay Plumley (Lynn) of Herkimer, N.Y.; Angela Gardner (Joe) of Mint Hill, N.C.; Laura Bishop (Dave) of Hastings, N.Y.; Paul Plumley of New Milford, C.T., his brother Lew Plumley of Long Lake, as well as 11 grandchildren and five great grandchildren.
During his retirement in Florida he loved the sunshine and visiting with his family, friends and neighbors on his porch.
A memorial service will be held June 24, 2023, 11 a.m. at St. Alphonsus, immediately followed by burial at the church cemetery.
Donations in Gary’s name can be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society either online, by mail at National MS Society, PO Box 91891, Washington, DC, 20090 or by phone (1-800-344-4867)
Dorothy Marie Bedore
The family of Dorothy Marie Bedore are very sad to announce her passing on January 19, 2023. Dorothy, age 88, was a lifelong resident of Tupper Lake.
She is survived by her siblings: Donna Kentile (Bucky), Donald Dechene (Shirley), David Rob Dechene, Petesy Harris (Lloyd) and Dennis Dechene (Beulah).
She is survived by her children: Terry Satterfield (Keith), Kate Malerba (Louie), Kim Weinheimer (Jake), Glen Jed Bedore (June) and Randy Bedore (Patty). Dorothy also had 10 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.
Dorothy was an avid reader, loved auctions and loved Tupper Lake.
No services will be held at the request of the family.
Sarah Jane Miller, 93
Sarah Jane Miller (Southmayd) passed away in Elizabethtown Hospital on January 9th, 2023 at the age of 93, after a battle with Alzheimer's and dementia.
Sarah was born on December 15, 1929 in Jay, NY. She is one of eight siblings of John Southmayd and Frances Pelkey.
Sarah married John C. Miller, son of John Miller and Dora Reil.
She went to work for General Electric in Schenectady, N.Y., at Roswell Park Cancer Research Center until 1968 when they adopted their only son, John D. Miller.
Sarah also worked at Wassaic State School, and later retired to become a homemaker and raise her son, as she followed her husband's career in the NYS OPWDD safety department.
Sarah took pride in her flower beds, her cross-stitch embroidery projects, and keeping a tidy house. In the summer she loved to go to garage sales. She was a hard worker, and would mow the lawn and stack firewood, and could maintain and operate a wood stove with the best of them.
Sarah is predeceased by her brother, Charles Southmayd; sisters Joan Craig, June Hart, Charlotte Granish, Janet Southmayd, Martha Bowen, and Bertha Bola.
Sarah was also predeceased by her husband, John C. Miller, who passed in 2005.
She is survived by her son John and his wife Debi Miller (Kennedy), niece Crystal Martin (Bruno), and several other nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held Saturday, January 14, 2023 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. with a Funeral Service to follow at 1p.m. at Heidrick-Zaumetzer Funeral Home, 3 College St., Au Sable Forks. Burial will take place in the Spring at Holy Name Cemetery.
Services were entrusted to Heidrick-Zaumetzer Funeral Home, Au Sable Forks.
Gregory Kentile, 55
Gregory Kentile, 55, passed away unexpectedly, Wednesday, December 7, 2022, at his home in Winter Haven, FL.
Born on June 28, 1967, in Syracuse, he was the son of Robert and Helen Kentile (Sylvester).
He was a 1986 graduate of Long Lake Central School and SUNY Morrisville. Greg was involved in all sports in high school. An avid skier, he spent several years on the ski patrol at Whiteface Mountain and Killington, VT.
He was a skilled tradesman, having remodeled several homes in the Syracuse area. He was also a licensed building inspector.
He was a graduate of NTTS (National Tractor Trailer School). He drove long-distance for several years before moving to Florida where he was semi-retired.
He loved the Adirondacks and standing around a campfire with family and friends.
We loved him and he is missed.
He is survived by his parents: Robert and Helen Kentile of Long Lake; two brothers: Mark Kentile of Richfield Springs and Daniel (Shelléy) Kentile of Ilion; nephews, Adam, Evan and Nathan Kentile and niece, Megan Kentile.
A Memorial Mass will be held at a date and time to be announced in the spring.
Burial will be in Long Lake Cemetery.
Donations may be directed to the Long Lake Rescue Squad, PO Box 415, Long Lake, NY 12847.
To express online condolences, please visit BrewerMillerFuneralhomes.com
Rita M. LaFrance
Rita M. LaFrance passed away peacefully with family surrounding her on January 15, 2023.
She was a hardworking and loving mother, raising three children on her own after her beloved husband, Andy, passed away.
Over the years she took in family and friends and provided a loving home for many, not just her children. She also cared for her mom, Agnes, until she passed away on September 10, 1986. She will always be remembered for her big heart and open arms.
Rita was born on November 14, 1936, in Tupper Lake. She went to nursing school and after graduation, on September 10, 1960, she married the love of her life Andrew LaFrance. Together, they raised their three children until Andy’s untimely death on May 17, 1976.
Rita is survived by her son, Anthony LaFrance and daughter Andrea O'Neill (Mike) of Tupper Lake, and Gregory LaFrance (Tina) of Plattsburgh, N.Y. She also has four grandchildren, whom she loved dearly: Jacqueline Barber (Shawn) of Balston Spa, NY, Austin O’Neill of San Diego, CA, Andrew LaFrance (Krystin) of Danemora and Katelynne McKinstry (Mark) of Stockbridge, VT. Rita is also survived by one sister, Beulah Dechene as well as by many nieces and nephews.
Besides her husband Andy, she was predeceased by her parents Wilfrid and Agnes Montion, her brother Maurice Montion and her sister Jane Gehrelein.
Arrangements are with the Frary Funeral Home on 24 Cliff Avenue, Tupper Lake. Calling hours will on Friday, January 20 from 4 to 6p.m. with a service at St. Alphonsus Parish on Saturday, January 21st at 1p.m.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Tupper Lake Voluntary Ambulance in care of the funeral home. Rita’s family members say they were so kind and attentive to Mom over the past few years, which they greatly appreciated.
L. Thomas Fortune
On January 5, 2023, Leon Thomas (Tom) Fortune embarked on a new adventure, departing from us and forging a new trail into the wilderness, to parts unknown. Tom was a lifelong resident of Tupper Lake. Tom was born on June 26, 1930 to Louis Thomas Fortune of Standish, NY and Vera I. Carleton McBride of Tupper Lake, NY. The McBride family was one of the earliest settlers in the area, arriving in the 1850’s.
Tom grew up in Faust (downtown) and attended the HGA and TLCS. He completed a year at Crane Music School in Potsdam before entering the army and serving as a Supply Sergeant 1st Class in the Korean War. Upon his return to Tupper Lake, he joined the family business, started by his father after WW I in 1920 as a variety store, which evolved into Fortune’s Hardware. The business has been serving the community for over 100 years. In 1956 he married his beautiful bride, Denise Marie Claire Toupin of Montreal, Canada and during their amazing 67 years together, raised four children.
Active in the community, he served on the TL Rescue Squad, Big Tupper Ski Patrol for 17 and 25 years respectively and was a Trustee on the Board of the Tupper Lake National Bank. He loved music and was a member of the Fire Dept. Band as well as several community bands, playing both the clarinet and saxophone in parades and other local events. An avid outdoorsman, he climbed the ADK’s 46er twice, the second round during the winter months. Besides hiking, he hunted, snowshoed, x-country and alpine skied, canoed, kayaked, and waterskied (sometimes on his hydrofoil). Over the years he garnered many medals, plaques and ribbons in X-Country ski events and mentored Maurice and Gisele to do the same. Canoe races with Andre were also a favorite challenge at which they both excelled. In his early years, he learned to fly and owned a yellow Piper Cub before he got his first car. He relished taking his unsuspecting family and friends on 20-mile epic journeys on Sunday, his one day off. He knew every mountain, trail and waterway for miles around. His knowledge of the area extended to all families in Tupper, knowing names, family history, faces and dates that no one else knew. (Ancestry.com had nothing on him)! People used to bring in photos of people and places for him to help identify.
Tom purchased the store from his father and ran it for many years, later bringing in his sons, Andre and Maurice as partners and expanding it in 1996, doubling the original footprint. At age 75, he claimed to have retired, but continued to frequent the store to visit with customers and friends and be on hand to troubleshoot and share good hunting stories, pranks and jokes. His customer service was second to none and he never gave a second thought about helping someone in need, delivering water heaters on his one day off or at some early morning hour. During his free time, he could be found outdoors chopping wood, clearing trails and maintaining his property. He worked hard and played hard. He was generous of spirit and loved his family and friends and customers, many becoming life-long friends.
Tom was pre-deceased by his sister, Catherine Beaudet and grandson, Ryan Murdock. He is survived by his wife, Denise Fortune, his sister, Vera A. Fortune Concilio, his four children: Helene Murdock (Alan), Andre Fortune (Cheryl), Maurice Fortune (Fran) and Gisele Fortune as well as 7 grandchildren, Lyndsay and Alicia Murdock, Benjamin and Olivia Fortune and Jessica, Caitlyn and Stephanie Fortune. He is also survived by his nephew, Steven Beaudet and nieces Julianne and Lisa Beaudet.
Calling hours will be held at Frary Funeral Home, Tupper Lake, NY on Friday, January 13, 2023 between 11 and 1 p.m., followed by Mass at St. Alphonsus Church at 1:30 p.m. Friends and Family are welcome to a reception following Mass at 30 Lake Simond Road. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the TL Rescue Squad and Fire Department. A spring internment will follow in May, the date to be determined.
Lawrence "Larry" Willett, 87
Lawrence "Larry" Willett, 87, died on December 31, 2022, from complications of the flu. He was born in Tupper Lake, New York, on May 17, 1935, to Violet Laramie and Henry Willett.
Due to unforeseen circumstances during the Great Depression, Larry and his four siblings went into foster care. They were all placed on Layhon's Farm in Constable, New York. He attended a one room schoolhouse from grades 1-8, but he was able to return to Tupper Lake to attend high school. After graduation in 1953, he and four friends joined the Marine Corps. He was stationed in Korea and Japan. He was a Staff Sergeant and loved his time in the military. This "county kid" wanted to see the world. He found he had great aptitude for typing, bookkeeping, numbers, and organization. This led to his career as an accountant.
Shortly after leaving the Marine Corps, he met the love of his life, Evelyn Savard, and they eventually settled in Tupper Lake. They had four children. Evelyn passed away in 2001 after 43 years of marriage. Larry had fulfilling jobs throughout his life. He worked for the US Forest Service, Sunmount, The Altamont, Litchfield Park, Rockwell International, The Wawbeek Inn, the 1980 Winter Olympics, and Bailey Motors. He and Evelyn even opened a pizza restaurant in Tupper Lake and ran it for many years.
He was able to find love again and later married Bonnie Miner Thomas, from Malone, and they were married for 20 years before his death. Larry loved to read and was a history buff. He devoured any non-fiction texts. He loved reading about military leaders, and presidents. He enjoyed current events, global issues, and politics. He was a man with strong political opinions. He enjoyed discussing these issues (if they aligned with his). He also loved golf. He loved to play, to be at the clubhouse, and to watch "the greats" play. A storyteller by nature, he loved talking about his childhood on the farm and we loved listening. He also loved food. The last year of his life he looked forward to a cheeseburger or milkshake that his children would bring him each visit. His legacy of humor, love of the little things in life, appreciation of nature and his gift for spinning a tale will live in all who survive him: including his wife, Bonnie, his four children—James (Susie), Trudy (Stephen), Jodi (Lyndon), Lorri (John). His nine grandchildren: Michael, Max, Cynara, Caleb, Wyatt, Gabriel, Logan, and Evan will carry his stories to their children, Ryder, Evelyn, Ethel, Cooper, Zoey, Bella, Serenity, Trudy, and Sophia. Larry also leaves behind his five stepchildren: Chris, Darlene, Deena, Dawn, and Eric. Surviving him, as well, are his sisters, Beverly Luther and Colleen Willett, and two brothers, Charles, and William Mozdzier. Larry is pre-deceased by his parents, his first wife, his brother, Steve Willett, and his sister Suzanne Soulier.
As per his request, a graveside service will be performed in the spring. Donations can be made in his honor to the Alzheimer's Association.
Mateele S. Kall, 81
Mateele S. Kall, 81, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Thursday.
Born on March 23, 1941 in Tupper Lake to Joseph and Anecy Shaheen she had been a resident of Syracuse for more than 65 years.
She was a graduate of the Syracuse University School of Business. She earned her CPA licens in 1986 and practiced her profession in Syracuse with her partner and husband Sheldon for more than 40 years. She was the managing partner. Mateele had been an adjunct instructor of Accounting at Cazenovia College.
She was a member of the board of the Jewish Community Center, volunteered with the senior meal program at the JCC, and delivered for Kosher Meals on Wheels. Mateele was a passionate bridge player and especially proud to have the status of a life master.
Mateele and her husband Sheldon were the founding trustees of the Pomeranz, Shankman, Martin Charitable Trust. The trust under their capable guidance has funded Central New York Jewish Agencies for the past 20 years and will continue to do so. Mateele and Sheldon were honored with the Kovod Gadol award from the JCC in recognition of their dedication to the Jewish Community. Mateele and Sheldon were the first people to be awarded the President’s Award by Temple Concord. Mateele was also very proud to be a Lion of Judah. Mateele was the youngest of 6 children, and the only daughter. Her family includes her husband Sheldon of 57 years, their children Deborah (Joseph) Schaal, Jacquelyn (Steven) Miron, and Matthew (Naomi); Grandchildren Jimmy, Rachel, Danny, Sophie, Abby, Hannah, and Lucy; and her brother Ayupe Shaheen; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
Funeral Services were held on Monday at Temple Concord. Burial will be in the Temple Concord section 30 of Woodlawn Cemetery.
Contributions in lieu of flowers may be made to a Jewish Agency in the spirit of Tikun Olam, or to The Wild Center of Tupper Lake, NY.
Sisskind Funeral Services website is www.sisskindfuneral service.com