Sherman P. Beaudette, 74
A funeral Mass for Sherman P. Beaudette, age 74, of Tupper Lake, was held on Friday, June 2, 2023 at 1 p.m. at St. Alphonsus Church in Tupper Lake with Rev. James Teti officating. A celebration of life was held after Mass at the VFW Post 3120 from 2p.m. on.
Sherman passed away on Tuesday, May 30th, 2023 at his home surrounded by his loving family. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Frary Funeral Home.
Sherman was born May 12, 1949 in Tupper Lake to the late Albert William Beaudette and Geraldine LaLonde. He attended and graduated from Tupper Lake High School. He married Patricia Woods on December 12, 1970 at Holy Name Church with Father. Nichols officiating.
Sherman was employed as the Director of Facility Services for Mercy Living Center in Tupper Lake and retired on June 22, 2012.
Sherman is survived by his children, Tracy LaFlamme and her husband Matthew Harris of Tupper Lake, Nicole Logie of Tupper Lake, and Peter Beaudette and his wife Shannon of Tupper Lake; his sibilings, Penny Young of Tupper Lake, Albert Beaudette of Lyons, N.Y., Jean Hart and her husband Gary of Chateaugay, N.Y., Richard Beaudette and his wife Sherry of Tupper Lake, Susan Herrmann and her husband Ken of AL, Joseph Beaudette of Tupper Lake, Kathy Gaudet and her husband Michael of Tupper Lake, Ronald Beaudette of Tupper Lake, Gerald Beaudette and his wife Denise of Tupper Lake, Robert Beaudette and his wife Christine of Tupper Lake, and Paul Beaudette and his wife Sharon of MD; his grandchildren, Kevin Becker, Jenifer Harris, Ashley Harris, Merryl Logie, Madelyn Logie, Sawyer Logie, and Madison Vachon. He also is survived by his loyal schnauzer, Nellie. Many nieces and nephews.
He is predeceased by his parents and his brother, Michael Beaudette.
Sherman enjoyed collecting baseball cards, putting puzzles together, and was an avid Yankees and Giants fan. Athleticism was always very important to him, as he played baseball throughout his youth, and would later coach Leroy’s Auto men’s softball for both his son’s and grandson’s teams.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations in his memory to the Tri-Lakes Humane Society, 255 George H Lapan Memorial Hwy, Saranac Lake, NY 12983.
Condolences may be made at fraryfuneralhome.com.
Mary Baker, 64
It is with saddened and heavy hearts that Mary Baker's family announces the loss of a devoted wife, dedicated mother, doting grandmother, and very special friend at the young age of 64 to her battle with brain cancer.
Mary lived a full eventful life, full of love and dedication to her family, friends, and community.
Born on September 7 1958 to Harold and Wilma Quesnel, a ray of light in the world that is much different than that of today. Like Mary, the microchip and NASA also met the beginning of their lives that year. Like the microchip changing the world we live in today Mary too changed the world she lived in and every life she had touched.
She leaves behind her loving husband, Michael Baker, who took care of her through the very end being by her side in the roughest of time. She is survived too by her kids, Jeremy and his wife Carolyn Nadeau, Shawn Nadeau, and Afton Nadeau and her partner Eddie Frenette, who gave her some of the most precious gifts that she held most dear- her grandkids! They are: Chase Nadeau, Reanna Nadeau, Shane Jessie, Sophie Nadeau, Gabby and Lucy Frenette, Ava and Mekenna Nadeau. She also leaves behind a brother and two sisters Alan Quesnel, Sandra Page, and Lori Ann Stump.
Family was at Mary’s core foundation of her life, everything and anything she did was because of her commitment to family. Once married to Bernard Nadeau she traveled the world as an Air Force spouse raising her kids the best she could in such a challenging environment wasn't always the easiest.
The two split up after a time and Mary moved back to Tupper Lake. She worked several jobs to take care of her three kids and was also going back to school at North Country Community College to earn her associate’s degree. When she got to the point of being able to retire, she continued her selfless work in the community cleaning the local Beth Joseph Historic Synagogue and lending a hand to friends in need whether it be cleaning hotel rooms or someone who just was having a hard time.
Yet her greatest joy was taking care of her grandkids. Whenever and whatever her grandkids needed from her she was there to pick up the pieces and try and get their lives back on track, push them in the right direction or give them the support she felt they needed. Like all people who do good things in this world, too often those lives are cut short, and Mary was no different and lost her fight and passed in the evening of May 17, 2023.
Often said by many “Mary would give you her last dollar if you needed it even if she needed it.” If you didn't know her this says all you need to know. The list could go on and on of the people she’s helped and lives she touched but this would go from an obituary to a book.
She is a woman who has poured so much light in the world with her laugh, smile and charisma. The world is just a bit darker now with her loss and could use more rays of sunshine like her. Everyone who knew her will now have a piece of their heart taken from them but remember that is not how she would have wanted you to feel. Remember her in the happy light she left in your lives. “She was a wife, a mother, a grandma too. This is the legacy we have from you!”
We love you Dear, Mom, Sister, and friend and you will be with us always no matter which title people use for you.
Services were held at the Frary Funeral Home of Tupper Lake on Tuesday, May 23, 2023.
Francis E. Godin, 79
A funeral Mass for Francis Elmer Godin, age 79, of Tupper Lake, was held on Tuesday, May 23, 2023, at 1p.m. at St. Alphonsus Church with Rev. James Teti officiating. Calling hours were held on Monday, May 22, 2023 from 4p.m. to 7p.m. at Frary Funeral Home, Tupper Lake. Burial took place at Holy Name Cemetery immediately following the Mass. Following the graveside service, all family and friends were invited to the VFW Post to celebrate Frank’s life.
Frank passed away on Wednesday, May 17, 2023 at Adirondack Medical Center. Arrangements were under the care and direction of Frary Funeral Home, Tupper Lake.
Frank is survived by his loving wife, Rosemary Godin; their three children, Mike Godin, and his wife, Martha, of Tupper Lake, René LaMora, of Tupper Lake, Wilson Godin, and his wife, Rae, of Ogdensburg; eight grandchildren, Michele Dukette, Michael Valentine, Emily Godin, Savannah Cramer, Dawn Potter, Jacob Shaver, Hunter Gollinger, and Livia Shaver, six great grandchildren; Jackson Dukette, Leah Dukette, Ameliyah Arnold, Paisley Rae Gollinger, Phoenix Cash Thompson, and Rylee Thompson.
Frank was born on May 8, 1944, in Tupper Lake, the son of Marshall and Beulah (LeBlanc) Godin. He attended local schools.
On April 1, 1967, Frank married Rosemary Walsh at Holy Name Church with Mgsr. Cosseao officiating.
Frank first worked for Grand Union Grocery becoming manager of the store in Long Lake. He then worked for the Town of Altamont as a bus driver for the town for the ski route in the winter and beach route in the summer.
He loved puzzles of all kinds, gardening, and collecting coins and baseball cards. He was a member of the Tupper Lake Fire Department and a member of the Knights of Columbus.
Donations may be made in Frank’s name to the Tupper Lake Food Pantry, 179 Demars Blvd Suite 2, Tupper Lake, NY 12986.
Dean H. Pohl, 80
“It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.” - Teddy Roosevelt
Dean H. Pohl, 80, of Antlers Road, Raquette Lake, passed away Thursday, May 18, 2023 at his home.
Born on December 4, 1942 in Rome, NY, Dean was the son of the late William and Mildred (Letts) Pohl. He was a graduate of West Leyden High School and earned an Associates degree from Alfred Tech.
Following graduation, Dean relocated to Raquette Lake permanently, where he had summered since he was a young boy. Dean was the maintenance supervisor at Echo Camp for Girls for several years, where he wooed laundry girl Donna Blakely over boat rides up the Marion River, where he had planted salt licks to guarantee deer sightings. And she wooed him with her work ethic and minimalist attitude, having arrived in Raquette Lake with only a knapsack! Dean and Donna were married on May 29, 1971 on the dock at Echo.
In 1974, Dean opened Pohl Construction, specializing in single family camps and homes accessible only by boat, necessitating barging of materials, equipment, fill - everything you need to build a house. As a master carpenter and contractor, his motto was “No job too big, no job too small,” and he proudly did “business on a handshake” for over 50 years. Concurrently, for 20+ years, Dean was the maintenance superintendent at the Raquette Lake Camps, a two-campus facility with over 600 residents including campers and staff.
Amazingly, Dean found time for yet another project. In the winters of 1989-1991, Dean built the W.W. Durant, founding Raquette Lake Navigation alongside Donna, launching the Durant on June 29, 1991. With Captain Dean at the helm, Donna acting as the operation’s “WD-40,” and the four children filling various roles over the years, the Pohls have hosted over 450,000 guests in their 30 year history. In 2021, it was with great pride that the couple sold the business to the next generation - daughter Rachel and son Jim - and Dean and Donna became the new owners’ most loyal employees and greatest supporters.
Dean was a steward of the Adirondacks and of Raquette Lake in particular. He believed in serving his community and was an elected Commissioner of the Raquette Lake Fire District #3, a Board member of the Raquette Lake Union Free School District, an active member of the Raquette Lake Fish and Game Club, an elected Town of Long Lake Councilman for the past 18 years, and an avid supporter of St. William’s on Long Point. He was also a member of the North Woods Lodge #849 Free and Accepted Masons and the Oriental Shriners. Dean was known as a problem solver and gave of himself willingly whenever the community needed it. He was instrumental in resolving the Township 40 title dispute, the Raquette Lake reservoir issue, and many other challenges that the community has faced over the years.
Dean enjoyed hunting, ice fishing, and above all, earning a living with his family. BD (“Before Donna”), he enjoyed raising hell.
He is survived by his wife of nearly 52 years, Donna Pohl; their four children: Bill Pohl (Biz), Rachel Pohl (George), Jim Pohl (Sydney), and Rebecca Pohl (Rambo); two grandchildren: Avery Mae Pohl and Dean James Pohl; a sister, Jane Cihocki; and his dear friends: Flip Joyce, Dan Richards, Mitch Edelstein, Mike Burke, Jim Dillon, Jim Blanchard, Gyula Kiss, Jay Cummings, Mike Marleau, John Hosley, Dennis Phillips, Bill Osborne, Willie Hollister, Electric Bob, and Jim Dwyer. Dean is joining many dear friends who predeceased him: Don Bird, Garry Hazen, Bill Cooley, Jerry Lanphear, Jim Bird, Kurt Forsell, Dutch Pylman, Don Langham, George Fuge, George Loriot, Harry Waldron, Fred Burke, Skipper and Alice, Rusty and Steve, Pat Cunningham, and Hal Stevens…too many to list.
A celebration of Dean’s life will be held at Dean and Donna’s home in Raquette Lake, the Birch Cottage (490 Antlers Rd.), on Saturday, May 27, 2-5pm. Further details are on the Raquette Lake Navigation facebook page.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Dean’s memory may be directed to St. William’s on Long Point: https://www.stwilliamslongpoint.org
To express online condolences, please visit www.brewermillerfuneralhomes. and/or https://www.facebook.com/
Charles “Chip” Perham, 73
Charles “Chip” Perham, age 73, of Tupper Lake, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 5, 2023 at his home surrounded by his loving family. There was a Celebration of Life held on Monday, May 8, 2023 from 3p.m. to 6p.m. at the Tupper Lake VFW Post 3120.
He is survived by his wife, Loretta Perham; his three children, John Kucipak and his wife Anne, of Freeman, ME; Melissa Perham and her companion Typhanie Cruzan, of San Antonio, TX, Danielle Sitz and her husband Matthew, of Columbus, OH; three grandchildren, Christopher Kucipak, Madelynn Sitz, and Colton Sitz; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is predeceased by his brother, Clifford Perham and his sister, Charlotte Conyne.
Chip was born on March 7, 1950, in Gloversville, N.Y., the son of the late Sanford and Cecilia (Naish) Perham.
In 1968, he graduated from Mayfield High School and went on to attend SUNY Morrisville. He received an Associate’s Degree and went on to Syracuse University, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Conservation Forestry.
After university, Chip took a job as a caretaker for the Reed/Strange Family Park, where he worked for over 10 years. In 1984, he began his career at the Tupper Lake Central School District as a bus driver and cleaner, eventually working his way to the Head of Transportation for the school district, retiring in 2012.
Chip joined the Tupper Lake Fire Department in 1993 and served in various officer roles over the years as well. He was president of the Tupper Lake Rod & Gun Club and was involved in the Federation of Rod and Gun Clubs. He was very proud to be a Tupper Lake Woodsmen for over 30 years, assisting with the Grease Pole and was known as “The Wave” at the Woodsmen.
He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and he loved to camp, since 1985 he would take his family all over the Adirondacks. Chip also loved spending time with his friends and family, which meant everything to him.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory can be made to the Tupper Lake Fire Department, 21 Santa Clara Ave, Tupper Lake, NY 12986.
Condolences can be made online at www.fraryfuneralhomes.com.
Marc Counter
Dear Family and Friends:
Please help us honor and celebrate the life of Marc E. Counter on May 13th at 4pm. A celebration of life will be held at the Tupper Lake Rod and Gun Club.
Marc was born September 20th, 1982 in Saranac Lake. He attended Tupper Lake Central School and quickly went to work at Counters’ Garage with his father. In 2015, he began his own business, Marc Counter Jr Auto Service.
Marc was someone we will never forget. Especially his love for the outdoors. He was an avid outdoorsman and loved to go riding with family and friends on motorcycles and any ATV vehicle. He enjoyed vacationing/ family get togethers, teaching his children and friends the art of hunting and fishing, dirt bike races, camping, ice fishing, golfing, and spending time with his children, which was a major priority.
He is survived by his four children, Lincoln, Phoenix, Roland and Evie Counter, as well as his companion of many years; Sarah Kentile; his parents, Marc and Carolee Counter, his siblings, Rebecca (Counter) and David Dewyea, Laura Counter and companion Robert Baker, Joel Counter and companion Kara Willette. As well as many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.
Again, we would hope you can join us on May 13 at 4p.m. at the Tupper Lake Rod and Gun Club.
Please come prepared with a funny or uplifting story about Marc so we know it’s okay to smile through the tears.
Condolences may be made online at www.fraryfuneralhomes.com.
Raymond North, 84
Raymond S. North, 84, known as “Bim” to his nieces and nephews, passed peacefully in his home on April 20, 2023. Born in Conifer, New York to John R. North and Rosebell W. North on April 14, 1939, Raymond lived his entire life in Conifer, surrounded by family.
Well known for his maple syrup, Raymond began producing in 1964 and continued to do so this very season, aided by his nephews, Jay and John Rust, their families, and many friends. Raymond is also known for his role in bringing back and coordinating the Tupper Lake Woodsmen's Field Days in the early 1980’s. Raymond also co-owned and operated John R. North & Sons Logging.
Raymond is survived by his three siblings: Haile North, Fern Rust, and John W. North, all of Conifer as well as many nieces and nephews, who will all miss him dearly. He is predeceased by his parents and his sisters Gwen Shumway, Minnie Cornell, and Audrey Gravelle (who passed in March).
A graveside service will be held at Gale Cemetery in Gale, New York on May 20, 2023, at 1:30 p.m.
Norma M. LaFrance, 95
Norma Margaret LaFrance, 95, was born on July 4, 1927, in Buffalo N.Y. to Laura M. LaFrance-Gagnier and Wilfred A. Gagnier. After the death of her mother, she was adopted by her maternal grandmother and grandfather, Victoria and Louis LaFrance, where she spent her childhood in Tupper Lake.
In 1946 she married and moved to New Hyde Park, Long Island and welcomed her three children- Joanna, Wayne and Douglas.
In the 1970’s, Norma moved to San Jose where she started her career as a CNA and home health care aide, specializing in elderly and AID’s patients. Norma enjoyed many hobbies including reading 1-2 books a week, jewelry making, knitting, world travel to exotic countries (like Greece, India, and Egypt, just to mention a few), learning about world religions and cultures, and her community at the YMCA volunteering, working out, potlucks and friendships. There are many plaques and honors attributed to her volunteering there, where she was known as “The Greeter”. Norma was generous, compassionate, and loving with a fun, spicy and adventurous spirit.
Norma passed peacefully in her sleep on March 15, 2023 at her daughter’s home. She is survived by her brother Joseph W. Gagnier, daughter Joan (Joanna) Boylan, her four grandkids Joe (Joaquim), Laura, Beth, and Steven, and her great-grandchildren, including Anna Nicole Cook. She will be interred in the LaFrance family plot St. Alfonse Cemetery in Tupper Lake along with her mother. There are no services planned at this time.
Richard A. Hovey, 89
It is with sad hearts that the family of Richard “Dick” Hovey of New Windsor, N.Y. announces his passing on Sunday April 23, 2023. Richard passed away surrounded by his family.
Born on June 4, 1933, he was the son of the late Clarence and Laura (Bone) Hovey of Tupper Lake, N.Y.
He served as a medic in the United States Navy from October 1951-1955 during the Korean War.
He retired from Central Hudson Gas and Electric after 37 years, serving as a supervisor at the Danskammer and Roseton Power plants.
He was a life member of the Orange County Volunteer Firefighters Association and a Life Member of Vails Gate Fire Company, serving more than 50 years, and served as chief from 1973-1975.
Richard was dedicated to community service and well known for helping community members in need.
Richard married the love of his life, Patricia (Joly) Hovey in October of 1954 and they were married for 68 years. Together, he and Pat were active members of St. Joseph’s Church in New Windsor.
He is survived by his wife Patricia M. Hovey; children: Michael (Lori) Hovey of Colorado, Richard S. (Kathleen) Hovey of New Windsor, NY, and Doug (Julie) Hovey of Newburgh, NY; and grandchildren: Sam, Kimberly, Emily, Ryan and Laura.
The family would like to thank the staff at Castle Point VA Hospital and The Kaplan Family Hospice Residence for their compassion and support.
Memorial visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Thursday, April 27 at Brooks Funeral Home, 481 Gidney Ave., Newburgh. A Mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, April 28 at St. Marianne Cope Parish (St. Thomas of Canterbury), Cornwall. Burial with military honors will follow in Orange County Veteran’s Cemetery, Goshen.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Kaplan Family Hospice Residence.
Gerald (Gerry) F. Lindsey, 88
Gerald (Gerry) F. Lindsey, 88, passed away April 19, 2023.
Gerry was born in Johnson City, N.Y., to the late Haden and Valora Lindsey. He was predeceased by his sister Betty (Ray) Hessinger of New Mexico. Gerry is survived by his wife, Sheila (Hunter), his daughter Karla (Rance) Brode, granddaughter Amber (Matt) Moore, Kurt, Kris, and Raelyn Hessinger of NM, and Karla’s mother Pauline Carmen-Lindsey. He is also survived by sister-in-law, Kathleen (James) Brady, and Sheila’s children Sheila Anne Hunter, Carol A. Houle, and James S. Hunter and their families.
Gerry was a proud veteran of the US Army 82nd Airborne and an AT&T Systems Technician. He and Sheila retired to the Adirondack Mountains and built a home in the woods of Long Lake, NY, gathering more than 20 years of cherished memories. Gerry, a woodsman at heart, loved the outdoors. He was a dedicated member of St. Henry's Church and participated in many parish activities. He most recently was a member of St. Francis of Assisi Church, Hillcrest, NY.
Graveside services with military honors will be at Long Lake Cemetery at noon on April 28, 2023, officiated by Father James Teti.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the NY State Police, multiple EMT responders, Wilson Medical Center staff, and Deacon Paul who provided such compassionate care. For those who wish, please consider a donation to American Heart Association or a charity of choice in Gerry's memory.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Miller Funeral Home, 6357 State Route 30, Indian Lake.
To express online condolences, please visit www.brewermillerfuneralhomes.
Homer Joseph “Bucko” LaMare
A Funeral Mass for Homer Joseph LaMare, also known as “Bucko” by most of the Tupper Lake community, were held on Monday, April 10, 2023 at 12 p.m. at St. Alphonsus Church with Rev. Clement officiating. Calling hours were held from 11a.m. that day up until the time of the Mass at St. Alphonsus Church. A reception followed the Mass at the VFW Post 3120, 196 Park St., Tupper Lake.
Bucko passed away peacefully surround by his loving family on April 3, 2023.
He was born in Tupper Lake on February 14, 1933 and was raised in Faust, on his beloved Washington Street, with his parents and siblings who predeceased him: Homer Joseph Sr. & Dezira (Puttrow), brothers Lee (Pap), Wilfred, Doris, and sisters Dezira Nicklaw and Violet (Vi).
Homer served in the Korean War in the Paratrooper Airborne 11 Division. Upon his return in 1953, he worked Benson Mines, Johnsons & Son, Tupper Lake Supply along with h is work as the caretaker of local camps, and the museum. He was a proud, long-time member of the VFW.
Bucko married the love of his life Mae LaMere "Rosie Bean" on May 7, 1955. He is survived by six daughters and three sons, Connie (Shaun) LaBarge, Peggy (LaMare) Charron, Jackie (Mark) St. Louis, Homer J. (Joe) (Brenda), Bob LaMare, Jane LaMare, Judy (JP) Snyder, Sandy Brown (Garrick), Jim LaMare. He loved his 18 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Homer loved spending time with his kids and grandkids, hunting, fishing, and watching Tupper Lake sports as well as the NY Yankees and Pittsburgh Steelers. His family members say he will always be remembered to us, and many in the community as a kind, funny, wisecracking, helping any one out if they needed it.
In lieu of flowers, a donation in his memory can be made to the VFW Post 3120, 196 Park St., Tupper Lake, NY 12986.
Condolences can be made online at www.fraryfuneralhomes.com.
Winona Seafuse, 95
Winona Seafuse, age 95, a resident of Tupper Lake, passed away on April 4, 2023.
She was born on June 8, 1927, in Valois, N.Y., the daughter of Arthur and Dorothy Hatch. She was married to Raymond Seafuse in 1945, with the marriage ending 30 years later.
She was a member of the Methodist Church. In 1985, she moved to Anacortes, WA with her daughter, Virginia Ricks, and grandson Kyle. Winona enjoyed knitting, crocheting, cooking, camping, and traveling cross country many times.
Survivors include her children, Virginia Ricks, of Tupper Lake, Richard Seafuse and his companion, Tina Merkle, of Tupper Lake, Robert Seafuse and his wife, Sandy, of Rhode Island, and Jeff Seafuse, of Florida; daughter-in-law, Rachel Desmarais; five granddaughters, Monique Seafuse, Samantha Seafuse, Suzanne Dale, Cheryl Hamel, and Doreen Hoogasian; two grandsons, Kyle Ricks and Scott Seafuse; three great-grandsons; two great-granddaughters; three step daughters; five step grandchildren; and three very dear friends, Mirth Moore, Dorothy Hall, and Vivian Bryant. She is predeceased by her mother and father; two sisters and her husband, Raymond Seafuse.
A graveside service will be held at Lake View Cemetery in Tupper Lake, NY. Arrangements are under the care and directions of Frary Funeral Home in Tupper Lake, NY.
Condolences may be made online at www.fraryfuneralhomes.com.
Clyde Alexander Reandeau, 71
Clyde Alexander Reandeau, 71, died at the Champlain Valley Physicians' Hospital on Thursday, March 30, 2023. He was the son of Alexander Reandeau, Jr. and Alice Simons Reandeau.
Clyde loved music and was in a high school band that played for many school dances. He graduated from the Tupper Lake High School in 1970.
He served in the Army and was stationed at different bases in the United States, but spent most of his military career in Korea, where he was a Communications Specialist.
After coming home, he worked as a wingman for the Town of Altamont, spent a winter working the lifts at Big Tupper Ski Slope, and then joined the staff at Sunmount as a Developmental Aide. He retired after 30 years of service.
Clyde was a quiet man, but touched so many lives with his kindness. He loved to sit on his porch rocker and watch the world go by. His dry sense of humor brought on peals of laugher. He is dearly missed by his family and friends.
He is survived by his daughter, Chrystal Billman, two grandsons, Keiden Annette and Carter Billman, whom he dearly loved, one brother, Floyd (Lynn) Reandeau, three sisters, Linda (Jean-Louis) Desharnais, Elaine (Roger) Mitchell, Sadie (Dan) Spada, Patricia Reandeau, his sister-in-law, five nieces and nephews, and several great and great-great nieces and great nephew. He was predeceased by his parents, his brother Paul, and his nephew Chad Mitchell.
Calling hours will be held at a future date at the convenience of the family.
Condolences may be made online at www.fraryfuneralhomes.com.
Betty A. Vaillancourt, 82
Betty A. Vaillancourt, 82, passed away peacefully at her home on March 13, 2023.
She was born on May 29, 1940 to George (Fred) Lamay and Marie Russell in Fort Covington, N.Y.
She was married to the late Yvon Vaillancourt who passed away in 2014. She was predeceased by two sons, Leslie T. Boyea III in 2000 and Michael Clark in 2022 and by one sister Joan Ostrander in 2013.
Betty is survived by her daughter, Debra (Danny) Lancor; two sons, Donald (Tina) Clark, all of Tupper Lake, and Leon (Paula) Boyea of Lyons, Kansas. She is also survived by many grandchildren and great grandchildren.
A mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Alphonsus -Holy Name of Jesus Church on Saturday, March 25, 2023 at 11 a.m. A celebration of life gathering will be held immediately following the mass at the VFW Post in Tupper Lake. Interment will be held on May 20, 2023 at St. Alphonsus Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made to the Tri-Lakes Humane Society or the American Cancer Society.
Rod Beaulieu, 102
Rod Beaulieu, 102 passed on March 8th peacefully at his home on Fort Myers Beach. He had been under hospice care for the past two months.
Born in Massena to Frank and Dorothy Beaulieu, he attended Massena schools and following graduation went to work for ALCOA Aluminum. He served in the Naval Aircorp.
Eventually moving to Tupper Lake, for years he was a very successful contractor, building many homes, motels and businesses. His company built most of the houses on Lincoln Drive and created the ChurchSt. Apartment complex.
He was an avid golfer and played into his 90s. He served for a number of years on the golf course board. He was also a member of the Tupper Lake Lions club, serving at one point as its president.
Rod also particularly enjoyed his summers in Tupper Lake with Betsy at their trailer on River Road.
Rod is survived by his wife, Betsy, three stepsons and several grandchildren and great grandchildren who referred to him as Pop. A son, Gary predeceased him. At this time no services are planned.
Reta E. Madore, 73
Reta E. Madore, 73, of Windsor died on Monday, March 13, 2023, at her home.
She was born on December 29, 1949 in Tupper Lake to Edgar and Alice (Gokey) Madore and spent her childhood in Tupper Lake and graduated from Tupper Lake High School in 1967.
Reta studied nursing and obtained an associate degree. She joined the Army and was a Nurse in the WAC, serving in Army Hospitals state side during the Vietnam War. Upon her honorable discharge she returned to New York and worked at the Adirondack Medical Center in Saranac Lake, NY and Lake Placid, NY, retiring in 2010 from Mercy General Hospital in Tupper Lake, when she moved to Vermont later settling in Windsor.
She was a talented artist and would work in glass and wood making sculptures. Reta had her own unique sense of style and aesthetic, and she loved to craft, collect and decorate her home with art and items that brought her joy. She was a natural caregiver, known for caring for fellow tenants in their time of need. She would often make a little more of a meal to share with her neighbors.
She is survived by one sister, Mary Servant and husband, Edward of North Hartland, VT; a brother, John Madore of South Carolina; a sister in law, Nancy Madore; several nieces and nephews; great nieces and nephews; and close friends Annah Abbott, Heather Nantell, Tonie Maxham and Christine Paquette.
She was preceded in death by her parents and four siblings, Theresa, Tammy, Edgar “Butch,” Jr., and Marvin.
Interment will be held in the St. Alphonse Cemetery in Tupper Lake, NY at a later date. Knight Funeral Home in Windsor has been entrusted with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to Reta’s family in an online guestbook at www.knightfuneralhomes.com.
Memorial contributions may be made to North Hartland Community Church, PO Box 27, North Hartland, VT 05052.
Audrey North Griffin Gravelle, 88
Mrs. Audrey North Griffin Gravelle, 88, of Conifer passed away peacefully on Friday, March 17, 2023 at Saranac Lake Hospital.
She was born in Conifer to the late John W Gravelle and Rosebell North on March 24 24, 1934. She was preceded in death by her late husband’s Francis Griffin and Donald Gravelle, her grandson Nathan Brambell and sisters Gwendolyn North Snye Shumway and Minnie North Cornell.
She was a graduate of Tupper Lake High School and attended Tupper Lake Baptist Chapel. Audrey was a member of the Piercefield Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary, the Eastern Stars, and was also a member of a bowling league. She was formally employed at Mercy Hospital and A&P Supermarket.
Those left to cherish her memory are her three daughters, Jackie (Arthur) Benjamin of Conifer, Rhoda (Theodore) Starzyk of Stanfordville, N.Y. and Laura (Darrin) Brambell of Montreal, Canada. Also surviving are three brothers, Haile North, Raymond North and John W. North as well as one sister, Fern Rust, all of Conifer.
She leaves behind 7 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren who were the light of her life.
There will be no services with a private burial at a later time at Gale Cemetery.
Theresa Marie Beausoleil
Our strong beautiful Mother, Theresa Marie Beausoleil (nee Martin), passed into the loving arms of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the warm embrace of her husband Brainard George, on February 21st in Lansdale, Pennsylvania. Mom was ready to join her husband, the love of her long and wonderful life.
Theresa was raised in the Adirondack Mountains, in the small town of Tupper Lake. Her parents, immigrants from Canada, raised Theresa and her two brothers, Edward and John (both deceased), in the beauty of the pristine lakes, forests and mountains. Mom met Dad on the slopes of Big Tupper and in the lodge near the warmth of the fireplace. Dad, a handsome WWII Army Air Corps veteran, and she a sparkly eyed beauty.
Their love story continued in Lancaster, Pa where she became the beloved housewife and mother, adored by her husband. They moved onto Camden, N.J,. then settled in Bergen County, N.J. Their love endured many joys and hardships, adventures traveling the world, days “puttering”, weeding her garden, visiting antique auctions and tag sales, cooking gourmet meals, hosting holiday parties, and most importantly sharing their gifts and time with their growing family and their church.
Mom was instrumental in the building of the successful irrigation business that still exists today. Mom never complained about overseeing the unloading of rolls of PVC pipe into their backyard or selling sprinkler parts out of their basement. Mom was in her mid 70’s when she volunteered at their Catholic Church in Wayne, N.J., helping to set up and decorate the altar every week before mass, with the ladies. She loved that activity and enjoyed it tremendously. After our dad passed mom made many friends at Meadowood, often playing Rummikub, solitaire, and bingo. Many an enjoyable conversation and laughs were had with the lovely ladies.
Theresa was a wonderful mom and grandmother leaving her six children Reesa Compton (Mike), LaConner, WA; Donna (Edgewater, MD), Judy (Mexico, NY), Renee Mure (Mark), Kinnelon, NJ; David (JoAnn), Ridgewood, NJ; and Robert (Christine), Plymouth Meeting, PA. She was blessed to be able to enjoy the laughter and youth of her 16 grandchildren and 12 great grandkids.
There will be a memorial service in Tupper Lake on or around July 8, 2023. Mom was a beautiful soul and generous with her love. We miss her immensely.
Donations in Theresa’s name can be made to the Tupper Lake Food Pantry, 179 Demars Blvd, Tupper lake NY 12986.
Steven Roy Brooks, 54
Steven Roy Brooks, 54, of Gainesville, Florida, died Saturday, March 4, 2023, in the E. T. York Hospice Care Center, following a long illness.
Mr. Brooks was born in Saranac Lake, on January 12, 1969; he grew up in Tupper Lake, New York, and graduated from Tupper Lake High School, Class of 1987, where he excelled in basketball, football, and baseball. Following graduation, he enrolled at the University of South Carolina under an ROTC scholarship. He then joined the U. S. Army, and proudly served until his retirement.
Steven moved to Gainesville in 2015, where he was a very active member of The Rock of Gainesville, serving in many different ministries, including the Circle of Champions, and taking numerous mission trips to South America.
He is survived by his wife, Luz Brooks; his son, Dylan Patrick Brooks, of Spartanburg, SC; his parents, James and Pauline Brooks, of Ocala; his brothers, James Brooks, of Alaska, and Craig Brooks, of Martha’s Vineyard, MA; an aunt, Mary Anne (George) Armstrong of Booneville, N.Y., along with numerous cousins.
A celebration of Steven’s life was be held on Thursday, March 9, 2023, at at The Rock of Gainesville, 10901 West Newberry Road, Gainesville, with Pastor George Brantley and Pastor Ron Hyatt, officiating. Interment with military honors followed at Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell at 2 p.m. Please consider donations to nations to Haven Hospice, 4200 NW 90th Blvd., Gainesville, FL 32606. Please visit his memorial page at www.williamsthomasfuneralhome.com
Death Notice- Rod Beaulieu
Word has been received that Roderick I. Beaulieu passed away at his home on Fort Myers Beach on March 8. A full obituary will appear at a later time.