Sarah “Sari” Harrington, 66
Sarah “Sari” Ann Harrington, loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on July 31, 2023. She was 66 years old.
Sarah was born on December 13, 1956, to Joseph and Norma (Harley) Wasile (predeceased) in Staten Island, N.Y. and was raised in Lunenburg, MA.
Sarah remained in Lunenburg, or the Lunenburg area, for most of her life while she raised her family and worked as a Business System Analyst in the computer technology sector for such companies as Digital, Lotus, and IBM. One of Sarah’s major projects was to help resolve the Y2K bug.
Upon retirement, Sarah departed Lunenburg and relocated to dual locations, West Springfield, MA and Tupper Lake, where she was quickly embraced by extended family and friends.
Sarah was an active member of the United Community Parish in Lunenburg for many years and later enjoyed participating in church services at Tupper Lake United Community Church. Sarah had a natural instinct for fashion, coupled with the presence that made everything she touched beautiful. She had the confidence, intellect, and empathy to bring opposing sides together. Sarah was courageous and strong-willed but believed in giving grace wherever possible.
Although cut short, Sarah lived a fulfilling life, full of adventure and love. Sarah explored the world through travel and through tasting the cuisines of many nations.
She loved watching the beautiful sunsets at Little Wolf Beach here and hiking in the woods, especially with her beloved rescue dog, Spike.
Some of her favorite hiking and snowshoeing locations in MA included Bear Hole Reservoir, Mittineague Park, and Irish Cultural Center Nature Trail. But one of Sarah’s absolute favorite activities was being the loudest cheerleader for her daughters and grandchildren during their many events and accomplishments.
Incorporated into all that was meaningful and cherished by Sarah, was the importance of kindness and respect for all people and living things, great and small.
Sarah leaves behind her husband of 45 years Tom, her three daughters, Nicole Reandeau, Andrea Harrington, and Jane Valenti, and sons-in-law Rick, Alexander Smirnov, and Tony, respectively.
Sarah is also survived by her brother Joseph Wasile and partner Kathy Murphy, her sister Lydia Bartlett and husband John, and her five grandchildren, Leah, Kiana, Rena, Aria, and Leo, who brought her great joy. As well as numerous loving family members and friends. The Toomey-O’Brien Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Sarah will be forever missed by all who knew her.
Adele “Tuppi” Molinski
On July 29, 2023 Adele “Tuppi” Molinski passed away peacefully surrounded by her family. She was 89 years old.
She is survived by her husband, Walter “Boots” Molinski of 66 years and her five children- Nanette (Bill) Rawling, W. Jimmy (Tammy) Molinski, Alisa (Stephen) Lyon, Jeanne Schroeder (Sean Gillard), John (Jan) Molinski. She also has 11 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren.
She was born in Tupper Lake on July 5, 1934. She had a successful nursing career which started at Columbia Memorial Hospital (Hudson, NY.). There she met her husband, a Hudson native, while he was returning from active duty at the US Coast Guard visiting his ill father at CMH. They met on a blind date, dated a few years, were soon married and eventually settled in Churchtown.
Eventually, Tuppi transitioned into licensed massage therapy. She was instrumental in creating professional standards in the field of massage in New York State after receiving her license.
When she and her husband became empty nesters, Tuppi went to work as a head nurse for New York State Corrections at Brookwood Correctional Facility. After retiring, she continued her caring and giving nature by volunteering at Columbia Memorial Hospital as a “pink lady”.
She was an avid outdoors woman who loved hiking, camping, fishing, canoeing, swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, and speed skating. Her love of these activities continues to spread to her children and grandchildren.
Tuppi was the family historian and spent countless hours over decades researching family genealogy.
A time for sharing memories and offering condolences will be on Wednesday evening, August 2, 2023 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Peck & Peck Funeral Homes, 8063 Route 22, Copake. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday at 10a.m. from Our Lady of Hope Parish, Route 22, Copake Falls. Interment will follow in Livingston Cemetery.
Donations in Tuppi’s memory may be made to the Columbia Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, 71 Prospect Avenue, Hudson, NY 12534. To leave a message of condolence for the Molinski family please visit www.peckandpeck.net
George David LaFlamme, 65
George David LaFlamme, 65 years old of Tupper Lake, passed away unexpectedly on July 21st at his home due to a heart attack.
George was born May 26th 1958 in Holyoke.MA. To George and Alice (Exware) LaFlamme. He married Anna Deno on November 6th 1993 in Tupper Lake N.Y.
George was a family man. He loved family gatherings and loved his family cookouts, and enjoyed having fires.
George has 13 grandchildren and 1 on the way. He really enjoyed and loved them all.
He is survived by his wife, Anna LaFlamme, his mother Alice LaFlamme of Tupper Lake, six children- Stephanie LaFlamme of Malone, Bryan (Meagan) Lucey of Piercefield, Kristina (Chad) LaFlamme of Tupper Lake, Catherine (Randy) Lohr of Tupper Lake, Jennifer Lazore of Tupper Lake and Samantha (Joe) LaFlamme of Tupper Lake.
He is also survived by siblings Debbie(Charlie) Mitchell of Tupper Lake, Sue (Ron) Allen of Tupper Lake and Trish (Nick) Leblanc of Tupper Lake.
George was one of a kind, with a wonderful sense of humor and will be missed by many. He was a great husband, father and papa.
Joan Audrey Cornelia Blank Fitzgerald
Joan Audrey Cornelia Blank Fitzgerald left us to enter eternal life on Monday, July 10, 2023.
Born at Holy Name Hospital in Teaneck, N.J .in 1926, Joan led a remarkable and satisfying life full of true variety.
As a child of the Depression, she experienced the hardship of financial stress. As a young woman, she felt the fear of WWII and the need to join the workforce early. As a smart woman, she was the first in her family to earn a college degree. As a married woman, she delighted in being a devoted mother. And as an unforgettable teacher, she touched the lives of likely over a thousand children who hit the goldmine when they were assigned to her classroom.
Joan spent summers in Ocean Grove, N.J., working alongside her aunts and cousins at her uncle's sandwich shop. She often recalled the day WWII ended when all the stores closed their doors and the dancing in the streets lasted till midnight. She married the love of her life, Leo William Jr, in 1949. Leo was in the US Navy, assigned to Guam and tried to convince her to an early marriage so she could live with him there in his island tent, but that did not go over too well. Instead, they had the traditional church wedding after the war in the church next to the classroom where they met in 6th Grade, St Andrew Avelino in Flushing, N.Y.
After receiving her Education Degree from Fordham University, Joan taught in the NYC School System, moving to a new house in East Brunswick, N.J. in 1956. There she and her husband, Leo Jr. cultivated an enormous organic garden, added a built-in pool, and designed an addition to expand the house for the growing family of 5 children.
East Brunswick was undeveloped at that time, farms were everywhere, Rte. 18 was a two-lane road, and the biggest event was the Middlesex County Fair where their vegetables won prizes every year. She and Leo were among the core group who went door to door to gather interest and solicit donations to fund the construction of a new Catholic Parish in East Brunswick which would be called St Bartholomew's Church and School.
As a St. Bartholomew School educator, Joan's reputation as an outstanding teacher made being assigned to her third grade classroom like winning a prize. She had incredible insight to identify something positive about every child and could entice even the most uncooperative student to find joy in learning.
Called "the butterfly lady," she was the first to buy classroom Monarch chrysalises for hands-on science, releasing them to the cheers of many.
Retiring after 35 years, she had the freedom to travel to a myriad of destinations, including Ireland, Alaska, the Florida Keys, the National Parks, Vail, CO, Deer Valley, UT, cruised the Hawaiian Islands, Grand Cayman, Nova Scotia, Montauk, spent winters in Sarasota, and made a lengthy religious pilgrimage tour of the religious shrines in Italy, Portugal and Spain. An exciting part of that trip was living through a 2:30a.m., 6.0 earthquake that swayed the walls of the hotel, shattering masonry and priceless art.
Joan was a two-time Cancer survivor, and famous as the first person to receive the TAVR 2 Heart Valve at NYU Langone Hospital in NYC seven years ago (Yes – she was 90). The procedure was witnessed firsthand by a bevy of the maker's executives and scientists who flew over from Europe to be there for the first operation. An international press release came out about her days later, praising its success. She insanely loved reading and called it a vice as she often couldn't put the book down and would continue page turning until the conclusion at 3a.m. Her hours spent at the East Brunswick Library were countless, taking out six books at a time, and having to return them in less than a week for a new collection.
Widowed in 2008, she filled her evenings watching DVD's, among her favorites were Overboard and My Cousin Vinny. Knitting and crocheting skills were stellar, producing hats, gloves, scarves, Afghans, vests, and the cutest baby hats and blankets.
She volunteered at Meals on Wheels, as well as The Adult Learning Center and was an active member of The Life Raft Group which supported survivors and shared the latest findings on GIST cancer. Many hours at the East Brunswick Senior Center distracted her sorrow when her husband died 16 years ago, including the bereavement sessions there, as well as the knitting group that made lap robes for nursing homes in the area.
Her very favorite place in the world was Tupper Lake and her house on Raquette River Drive. She and Leo honeymooned nearby. They often visited early in their marriage, made family trips when the kids were young and finally made their dreams come true when they bought their boathouse there in 1977. Years of winter skiing and summer boating and fishing filled the family's need for vacations in the huge house that can sleep 14 in beds. She was there 16 days earlier, enjoying her happy place in the window overlooking the river when her heart issues began, which led to her passing.
Her religious beliefs were infallible, and she looked forward to an afterlife with those gone years ago.
Up until this month, she drove her new car, shopped, cooked, managed her own finances, and even went to the most involved medical visits alone. She lived a fiercely independent life but felt so secure sharing her large home for company with her son, Shawn.
All five of her children felt like "only children," as she coined the term since we spanned 13 years from the oldest, Lynn to the youngest, Paul. In between were Shawn, Megan and Leo. She made each of us feel we were special and important to the family. Her 13 grandchildren all knew her well, stopping and calling her as their confidant and friend. Although she could sometimes seem stern, her direct approach to life and its circumstances included her complete support for all the problems, mistakes or surprises we hit her with. Joan had a no-nonsense approach to life, and we could rely on her to say what was on her mind. So, we all knew where she stood. Her recent joys were the births of her four great grandchildren, and knowing another one is on the way.
To say she was loved is an enormous understatement. We will never fill the void of the person she was. When asked how she would describe herself she recently came up with these adjectives; a decent, kind and strong woman. She showed us forever love, and her memory lives on in each one of our hearts.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The New York Adirondack Wild Center Museum, a place she supported and visited often.
Adrienne Jeanne Carriere, 94
Adrienne Jeanne Carriere, 94, of Tupper Lake passed away on July 16, 2023 at Mercy Living Center, where she resided since May.
Adrienne was born in Saint Anicet, Quebec to Alfred and Rosia Hurteau on August 18, 1928. Growing up in Canada, she moved to the United States in 1954, raising her children before she entered the workforce.
Adrienne worked at Major Rod, Tupper Lake Veneer and Ames, but she really enjoyed being a foster grandparent at the L.P. Quinn School the most, seeing all the smiles the kids had every day.
She is survived by her children- Mitch and Dora Carriere of Morrisonville, Andre Carriere, Louise and Mark Dupuis of Tupper Lake and her son-in-law David Shaut of New Port Richey, Florida.
She is also survived by her grandchildren: Travis and Josh Dupuis, Elizabeth (Jeff) Depatie, William Shaut, Cruz Carriere, Johanna, Dawn and Brian Kelly. Adrienne is also survived by six great-grandchildren and her sister, Gilberte Quesnel of Valleyfield, Quebec.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her ex-husband Gemain Carriere, her daughter Diane Shaut and a grandson Christopher Shaut. Also passing before her were her brother Armand Hurteau, her sisters Germaine Hurteau, Cecile LeCavalier, Aline Besner and Alberte Hurteau.
A graveside service will be held at Saint Anicet cemetery in Quebec, Canada on July 24, 2023 at 1:30p.m. Frary Funeral Home and Serre & Finnegan Funeral Home are handling the arrangements.
Patricia Francisco, 90
An 11a.m. Funeral Mass for Patricia “Patty” Eileen Flint Francisco, age 90 of Tupper Lake, was held on Monday, July 17, 2023 at St. Alphonsus Church in Tupper Lake.
Patty passed away on July 10, 2023. She is survived by her daughters May Francisco of Tupper Lake, Lawrice Taylor of Lake Clear and sons David Francisco of Tupper Lake and Danial (Brenda) from Paul Smiths.
Patty is also survived by her grandchildren, Ayla Keniston (Kyle Dercouchier), Christina MacNamara, Ethan Francisco and Elizabeth Francisco (Andrew Casta) as well as great grandchildren Alica, Brenden, Macie May and Eloise Marie.
She is predeceased by her parents and siblings Barbara Anne, Nelson Alvin, Dorthey May, Frances Elizabeth, George Arthur and Charles Edwin.
Patty was born on May 29, 1933, in Syracuse, N.Y., to the late Cecil Calvin Flint and Elizabeth Electa Hiltz. She and her siblings attended a one-room schoolhouse until eighth grade, where her mother had been the sole educator.
In 1951, Patty graduated from St. Lawrence Central High School in Brasher Falls, N.Y. and went on to graduate from the Ithaca School of Practical Nursing in 1956.
She married Wendell D. Francisco in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, on October 20, 1954.
In conjunction with her long and rewarding nursing career, Patty completed the Lay Preaching Program of Auburn Seminary in 1989 and went on to serve many local congregations and campsite ministries.
Patty’s greatest joys came from working with children, especially playing “Mrs. Santa Claus” during the holiday season. Patty also worked with children at the 4-H Camp Overlook in Owl’s Head, NY. She was an avid sports enthusiast who enjoyed hunting, fishing, baseball, softball, and even shooting competitions. Patty was also a very talented seamstress.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Patty’s memory to the Tupper Community Lake Food Pantry, located at 179 Demars Blvd Suite 2, Tupper Lake, NY 12986.
Henry Denis Sr.
On July 13th 2023, Henry Denis Sr., the heart and soul of the Denis family, passed away peacefully at his home, shortly after a family reunion in his honor.
Henry was born September 11, 1949 in Tupper Lake. He was a son of the late Armand and Lucille (LeBlanc) Denis, who had eight children.
Henry attended Tupper Lake schools and worked several jobs throughout his life, including over thirty-years at Shaheen's IGA. After retirement, Henry worked for his sons’ company, The Eager Beaver Brothers.
Henry married Pamela (Wood) on August 24th, 1991 and were together for 43 years. Together they had three children: Amy (Wood) and husband Sean, Henry Jr. and fiancé Shawna Smith, and Joshua. Also, from a previous relationship, was his daughter Paula Dora.
Henry had several grand-children, including Henry III, Hailey, Jayden, Allisa, Autumn and Sean (Mary) Wood, and a great-grandchild Brooklyn. He is also survived by sisters Sandra Benware, Sheila Giustino, Susan Illingworth and Laurie Denis.
Henry is predeceased by brothers Armand Jr. and Phillip "Peachy" Denis and a sister Patricia Allen (Denis), several nieces and nephews, including Joseph Giustino and Amy Denis (Bishop).
Henry's favorite pastimes were hunting, fishing, being outdoors and spending time with his family. He also loved making wooden creations, going to the casino and enjoyed bowling, having coffee, reading the newspaper and visiting with friends at the Tupper Lake Stewart's Shop.
For several months, Henry suffered from pancreatic and liver cancer. He was placed on Hospice care and passed away shortly afterward. Memorial contributions may be made to the Tupper Lake Rescue Squad and Hospice. A celebration of life will take place at 4p.m. at Lakeview Lanes, 1939 state Route 30, Tupper Lake, on July 22, 2023.
Mary Catherine “Cal” Fletcher
Mary Catherine Fletcher, “Cal” to most people, went home to the Lord on July 13, 2023.
She was born August 4,1929 to Roderick and Anne (Kavanagh) McCauley.
Cal attended school at Holy Ghost Academy, graduating Valedictorian of her class. She worked for a few years for AT&T before marrying Earl Fletcher in 1948. Together they raised five children.
Life with Earl was an adventure. Together they weathered the ups and the downs of life, celebrating 65 years together until his passing in April 2014.
Cal was a lifelong member of St. Alphonsus Church, where she was a money counter and was very active in the Catholic Daughters for over 60 years.
She was not a housewife, she was a home-maker and welcomed friends and relatives at any time.
Cal was an excellent knitter and baker-well known for her chocolate chip cookies. Her family always made a beeline to the cupboard looking for the Tupperware container specifically designated for her famous chocolate chip cookies. Everyone wanted to make sure they got their fair share.
She was a cook, cleaner, chauffeur, basketball, baseball, soccer, and hockey cheerleader and whatever else her family needed. Cal was a true sports fan. She enjoyed watching the pros play as well as all of her grandchildren. However, if anyone in the family was ever injured her remedy before going to the doctor was to “soak it”. That remains a joke in the family to this day. As her children left home, she started bowling and with Earl’s sponsorship, she enjoyed bowling with the ladies of Fletcher’s Scrappers for many years. You may also have had the pleasure of running into Cal at Ray’s Liquor Store where she worked for a time to fill those empty nest years.
One of her biggest joys was taking vacations with her family in the summer. She and Earl would rent a cabin in Lake George, where her children and grandchildren would join them to make wonderful memories. Often included was her niece Michelle (Bourbeau) Stevens, who was more like a daughter to Cal than a niece, along with her family.
She is survived by three of her children, Karen (John) Walker, Jerry (Tracy) and Don (Kelley) along with her six grandchildren: Samantha Walker, Josh and Elliott Fletcher, and Maeve, Peyton, and Quinn Fletcher. Also surviving are her in-laws Mary (Fletcher) Chapman and James Fletcher as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
She was predeceased by her husband Earl, sons Jeff and John and her siblings: Helen Brown, Phyllis Boushie, Theresa Brunette, Jean Bourbeau, Francis McCauley, and Estelle McMillian.
The family would like to express a huge thank you to all the wonderful caregivers that have taken care of our mother over the years. Because of all of you, she was able to stay in her beloved home until the end. Our hearts are filled with gratitude.
Calling hours will be held from 10a.m. to noon today (Wednesday, July 19, 2023) at the Frary Funeral Home, 24 Cliff Ave., Tupper Lake. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:30p.m. today (Wednesday, July 19, 2023) at St. Alphonsus Church, 48 Wawbeek Ave, Tupper Lake. Burial will take place immediately after at St. Alphonsus Cemetery.
Ricky Francis Arnold
Ricky Francis Arnold, 66, of Morrisonville, N.Y. was set free on July 4, 2023. Born on February 16, 1957 in Tupper Lake, Rickey was the son of Francis and Pearl S. Arnold.
He retired from Jefford’s Steel as a steel fabrication operator.
Ricky joyfully served in the church van and food rescue ministries at First Assembly of God Plattsburgh.
He was a member of the Chazy Lions Club where you’d find him at the french fry station during “Old Home Days,” and a volunteer firefighter at Morrisonville Fire Station. As a young man he worked on the Adirondack Railroad and played on the infamous “ELITE” softball team of Tupper Lake.
Ricky was a generous giver, seen by his 11 gallon lifetime donation to the CVPH Blood Center. His final donation was to Science Care Research.
He is survived by his loving wife Denise Y. Arnold, two sons, Kyle and Matthew Arnold, sister Alanna (Gifford) Fox, Donna (Steve) Hillman, Paula (Kit) Arnold-Baum, nieces, Rebekka Paige, and Rachel Hillman.
He was preceded in death by his parents and first wife, Rene Arnold.
Ricky’s Celebration of Life will be on Friday, August 4 at 3p.m. at First Assembly of God Plattsburgh, NY. Pastor James Miller officiating.
Donations in Ricky’s honor can be made to compassion.com.
Death Notice: Tai McLear
Word has been received on the passing of Tai McLear of Ocala Florida, formerly of Tupper Lake. Tai passed away on July 1, 2023 at the age of 24.
Funeral services will be held on August 17, at St. Alphonsus Church at 11a.m.
A full obituary will appear in the August 9 edition of the Tupper Lake Free Press.
Ruth “Midge” LaBrie
On July 3, 2023, Mrs. Ruth “Midge” LaBrie, the heart and soul of the LaBrie family, passed away peacefully in her own bedroom shortly after being visited by members of her immediate family, close personal friends and receiving her last rights. She was the last of the original “Stetson Road Gang’s” mothers.
Midge was born on September 3, 1937, the daughter of George and Lauretta McGillis, who had a total of five children. Midge was predeceased by one brother, Carl “Skipper” McGillis, and one sister, Theresa Emery. She is survived by two sisters, Janice Pryor and Thelma “Dunc” Lawlor.
In her youth, Midge was a bit of a tomboy; she loved doing outdoor activities, which included fishing, hiking, mountain climbing, picnics and swimming, with her best buddy Lonnie Gokey and members of the Gokey Family.
Midge attended Tupper Lake High School and on November 5, 1955, she married Philip J. “Chappy” LaBrie. It was a marriage that would last 55 years, until Chap’s passing on September 25, 2010. They had two children, one daughter, Christal, and one son, Philip.
On July 24, 1976 Christal married Craig D. Russell, and on July 8, 1981, Matthew Craig Russell was born, Midge’s first grandchild, and oh how she loved that kid. Throughout his school years, Matt spent his summer vacations here in Tupper Lake with the LaBrie family, and those years were among the happiest times of Midge’s life.
On September 19, 2008, Matt married Kelsi Von Bargon, and on June 14, 2017, MaKenna Grace Russell was born, becoming Midge’s first great grandchild, and, oh how she loved it when MaKenna introduced her to other people as My GREAT Grandma! She was over the moon on that one.
On December 10, 2022,Luke Owen Russell was born, making Midge a great grandmother for the second time. Throughout her married life, Midge did everything from being a great mom, to being a great homemaker, to being a great bookkeeper which helped keep the family business, Phil’s Radio & TV, smoothly running for over 50 years, and finally to being a great caregiver to Chappy, who suffered from Alzheimer’s disease in the last years of his life. Her efforts were nothing short of superhuman.
In her later years, Midge loved to go to the Casino. Chap would always tell her she couldn’t go but Midge went anyway. She was also very lucky; she won many more times than she lost.
Also, in those later years, she enjoyed her birthday a lot more as that date indicated her kids were going back to school soon. She really liked that. And she loved her two cats, Winkie and Misty. In addition to members of her immediate family, Midge is also survived by a number of nieces and nephews, and their children.
In the end, much like Chappy, Midge really did have a wonderful life and really did live happily ever
after.
Calling hours for Midge will be on Thursday July 13, 2023 from 4 to 6p.m. at the Frary Funeral Home in Tupper Lake. Mass for Midge will be held at St. Alphonsus church, on Friday, July 14, 2023 at 11a.m. Burial will follow immediately after mass, after which there will be a reception held at the VFW Post 3120, located at 1849 State Rte 3 in Tupper Lake.
In lieu of flowers, please consider sending donations to High Peaks Hospice, as when things were at the darkest times, Hospice brought in the light and provided much needed guidance and support. Their efforts will never be forgotten.
Regina Waite Platt, 68
Regina Waite Platt “Gina,” age 68, passed away on July 8,2023 while under the care of the North Country Nursing and Rehabilitation Center of Massena, N.Y., with her sister Leslie and husband Richard by her side. All funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Frary Funeral Home of Ogdensburg. Calling hours were held on Tuesday July 11, 2023 from 3p.m. to 6p.m. at the Frary Funeral Home at 515 Caroline Street Ogdensburg. There will be a funeral service today, Wednesday, July 12, 2023, at 2p.m. with the Rev. Carolyn J. Bartkus officiating at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 500 Caroline Street, Ogdensburg. Immediately following there will be a luncheon at the Methodist Church Hall at 627 Caroline Street Ogdensburg. A burial service for family and close friends will take place on Thursday July 13 at St. Alphonsus cemetery in Tupper Lake.
Gina was born early in the morning of July 4, 1955. She always believed that the fireworks were in celebration of “her” birthday! Growing up in Tupper Lake, Gina was nurtured by the loving warmth and support from her parents, Fay and William Waite, maternal grandparents Reginald and Ellison Hawkins and her younger sisters Holly and Leslie. In addition, Gina had the companionship of many good friends from “the neighborhood.”
From an early age Gina knew that she wanted to be a teacher like her mother and grandmother. Possessing a passion for learning, reading, theatre, performing arts, and travel, Gina graduated from Tupper Lake High School in 1973.
She continued her formal education by earning a bachelors degree in education from SUNY Oswego, a masters degree in reading education from SUNY Potsdam and finally a Masters Degree in Library Science from SUNY Albany. Gina’s career as an educator spanned more than 33 years. During that time, she taught, English, theatre, reading and finally library science to High School students at Ogdensburg Free Academy.
Gina envisioned her role as an educator as extending far past the traditional classroom. A great deal of Gina’s passion for learning and exploring was invested in the Odyssey of the Mind program. With great passion and determination Gina coached teams of High School students that reached the level of world championship competition. Gina always felt a responsibility as an educator to motivate, inspire and impart the skills and knowledge that “her kids” would need in order to find their way in the world as they grew into adulthood.
Gina’s life was filled with many passions. She loved the theatre, literature, travel, gourmet cooking, family genealogy and sewing crafts.
Foremost among her passions was the theatre arts. Beginning in High School and continuing for the rest of her life, Gina performed and participated in many school and community theatre productions. She was never happier than when she was rehearsing for a role in a production or simply sitting in a Broadway theatre immersed in a drama.
When reflecting on her many roles and productions, the sentimental favorite was playing Queen Aggravain in “Once Upon A Mattress” which tells the story of the Princess and the pea. Each year when Gina was asked what she would like for her birthday, her answer never varied, “I want to be on Broadway!” Many a memorial birthday was spent sitting in a Broadway theatre immersed in a world she loved.
When asked her approach to life she said it was simple, you needed to grab it with both hands and hold on tight because you were going for a ride!
Gina is survived by her husband of 45 years, Richard, her younger sisters Holly Mineau and Leslie Dziubinski, both of Texas, as well as cherished nieces, nephews, and grand-nieces and grand-nephews.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Ogdensburg rescue Squad or to the friends of the Ogdensburg Library.
Online condolences may be made at www.fraryfuneralhome
Dixie M. Carpenter
Dixie M. Carpenter, 83, a resident of County Route 113 in Greenwich, passed away Tuesday, June 20, 2023 at Fort Hudson Health Care Center in Fort Edward.
Born January 24, 1940 in Glens Falls, NY she was the daughter of the late William and Kathryn LaVoy Flanders.
Dixie was a graduate of Schuylerville Central School and had worked for Met Life in Albany until she retired. She then worked for Maroun Insurance Agency in Tupper Lake for several years.
In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband David F. Carpenter and her brother Will LaVoy and two nephews, Tim and Jeff LaVoy.
Survivors include special nephew, niece and caregiver, Louis Flanders Jr. (Tena) and their children, Morgan and David (Krista) as well as many other beloved nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews; 3 brothers, Louis E. Flanders Sr. (Laurie), Kenneth Flanders, and Paul Flanders Sr. (Kathy); and her extended family the Aldridge’s and the Deyoe’s.
A graveside service will be held at 12 noon, Tuesday, June 27, 2023 at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga Cemetery, 200 Duell Rd., Schuylerville.
Her family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff of G-Wing at Fort Hudson for their love and care.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in her memory to Friends of Saratoga County Animal Shelter, P.O. Box 788, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 or online at www.friendsofscas.org .
Robert E. Jones, 89
Funeral services for Robert E. Jones D.D., age 89, of Tupper Lake, will be held on Wednesday, June 28, 2023 at 11:00AM at Tupper Lake Christian Center with Pastor Dave Boyea officiating. Calling hours will be held on Wednesday from 11:00AM up until the time of the service. Burial will follow at Holy Name Cemetery in Tupper Lake. Mr. Jones passed away at his home on Saturday, June 24, 2023.
Bob was born on June 2, 1934, in Tupper Lake, NY, the son of the late John Hubert and Delima Oshier Jones. He graduated from Tupper Lake Central School and enlisted in the Army where he served 4 years. After his honorable discharge from the Army, he enlisted in the United States Coast Guard where he served on various vessels and was stationed at many different ports around the world during his 20-year tenure. Bob was an avid ham radio enthusiast and kept in contact with the many friends he made worldwide during his time with the United States Coast Guard.
After retiring from the service, he started working for the Tupper Lake Police Dept as a dispatcher. He also became more involved in the Catholic Charismatic Church. He served as Patriarch of the Catholic Charismatic Church and most recently the Patriarch Emeritus.
Bob also loved motorcycles, he loved driving and repairing them; he had a passion for all things mechanical, especially radio-controlled airplanes. He was also a member of Mensa.
Condolences can be made online at www.fraryfuneralhome.com.
Andrew Beaudette, 59
It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Andrew John Beaudette, 59, a beloved brother and friend. He passed away suddenly and unexpectedly of natural causes, in his home in San Diego on Friday June 16th.
Andrew was born on April 22nd 1964 to Muriel (Laramie) and Leo Beaudette. He graduated from Tupper Lake High School in 1982. He then went on to work for North Star industries for many years.
He moved to San Diego in 2006 and worked for Sharp Medical as an Administrative Assistant until his passing.
Anyone who knew Andrew will understand the huge hole he has left in our hearts. He will be sorely missed by his many friends, and family.
He is survived by his sister Cynthia and her husband Donald Whitmore, his sister in law Carol (Neal) Beaudette, his sister Nancy and her husband Steven Conte, his brother Gary Beaudette, and his sister Erin and her husband Chris Klossner, nine nieces and nephews, and eight great nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents Muriel and Leo Beaudette, and by three siblings James, Neal, and Joan Beaudette.
A Celebration of Life will take place at 111 Old Piercefield Road, on October 7th at 2 pm. Please come and join us in honoring our brother Andrew, and feel free to bring any pictures and memories you would like to share.
Mary Elizabeth Freer Lyle, 99
Mary Elizabeth Freer Lyle, 99 of Vernon Hall passed away Saturday June 17th at the Jack Byrne Center for Palliative and Hospice Care surrounded by family.
She was born in Poughkeepsie NY on October 19,1923 the daughter of Harry and Anna (Simon) Freer. She attended the Huns Lake one room school house and Pine Plains Central High School before attending the Wood Purinton Business School. She married Robert H. Lyle on April 21, 1946 and settled in Millbrook NY where she worked for Bennett College. Mary and Bob retired to Tupper Lake in the Adirondacks where they built a home on Little Wolf Lake and were long time volunteers at Paul Smith's VIC and the Wild Center. Mary was an avid reader, writer and poet. She loved camping, hiking and swimming. Wherever she was living she became actively involved with her community, from joining community theatre programs to driving for meals on wheels, to teaching an exercise class in her assisted living facility. She had a vibrant personality and a caring heart. After Bob's passing in 2008 Mary moved to Northfield MA to be closer to family.
Mary is survived by her daughters Jane Lyle-Jaworski and Jessica Lyle Chaplin and her husband Mark Chaplin as well as grandchildren Erin (David Thomas) Jaworski, Julian (Corey) Jaworski, Tara Chaplin, Kimberly (Ben) Sharp, Kelly (Kari) Freer, and great-grandchildren William, Jacob, and Emmett Thomas, Astyr Sharp, Adeline and Hugo Freer. For Mary her family was her joy.
Calling hours will be from 11 to noon Monday June 26 at the Kidder Funeral Home followed by a Liturgy of Christian burial in St Patrick's Church Main St Northfield MA. There will be a private burial at a later date in Millbrook NY. Donations in Mary's honor can be made to your local hospice center or to the Dickinson Memorial Library in Northfield MA.
Kashara (Tarbox) Metzger, 38
Funeral Services for Kashara Katherine Metzger (Tarbox), age 38, of West Palm Beach, FL, formally Tupper Lake, will be held on Friday, June 9, 2023 at noon at Frary Funeral Home, Tupper Lake. Burial will follow immediately after the services in Gale Cemetery. A celebration of life will be held at the VFW Post 3120 following the graveside service.
Kashara passed away unexpectedly on May 17th, 2023 at HCA Florida JFK Hospital in Atlantis, Florida.
She is survived by her son, Krischen Fortier of Tupper Lake; her husband, Daniel Metzger of Louisville, KY; her father, Gregory (Victoria) Tarbox of Ogdensburg; her mother, Wendy Thompson (Demars) of Newton Falls; her brothers, Kristopher (Emilie) Tarbox and Brock (Courtney) Tarbox, both of Tupper Lake; her sisters, Takara (Adam) Thompson of Saranac Lake and Cierra Thompson of Tupper Lake; her grandparents, Alan and Cheryl Tarbox, of Piercefield; along with many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.
Kashara was born on January 18, 1985, in Saranac Lake, the daughter of Gregory Tarbox and Wendy Demars. She graduated from Tupper Lake High School in 2003. She worked at Sunmount DDSP on and off from 2005 until 2013.
Her favorite things in life were being with family and making everyone laugh. She was known for her beautiful smile and contagious, one-of-a-kind laughter. She is going to be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing and loving her.
Condolences can be made online at www.fraryfuneralhomes.com.
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.