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Lawrence “Larry” Wood, 81

Lawrence “Larry” Wood’s great sense of humor, his generosity and zest for life, as well as his loyalty to family and friends, will keep his memory alive in the hearts of the many family members and friends he has left behind.

Larry died in Wolcott, Colorado on June 30, 2023, after suffering a heart attack at the age of 81. He was the only child of Lawrence A. Wood and Laurayne Martineau. He was born in Tupper Lake, a small, picturesque town in the center of the Adirondack Mountains of New York State.

A few years after Larry’s birth on January 20, 1942, Laurayne developed a protracted illness and Larry was cared for by various aunts and uncles for a while, and ultimately lived with his grandmother, Ida Wood, along with another cousin, Patricia Wood.

He had many loving aunts and uncles, 15 first cousins, and many more cousins born over the years.

He gained a stepsister, Rebecca "Becky Ross, when his father married again, to Edythe Ross, in 1972.

Larry attended local schools, and his impulsive and fun-loving nature captured the hearts of many. He graduated from Tupper Lake High School, and graduated from Paul Smiths College, then entered the U.S. Army for two years. An avid snow skier, he moved to Vail, Colorado to cruise the softer, sweeter snow there in 1962. He was a talented and popular ski instructor at Vail Mt. for many years.

Larry developed a security and fire alarm systems business which became widely respected in the Vail region. In later years, Larry moved to the Eagle Creek area and worked as a security guard and taxi driver.

Larry loved discovery and adventure. He became a very discerning and apt amateur archaeologist and a proficient ham radio operator (beginning in high school,) activities which deeply widened his circle of devoted and loyal Colorado and world-wide buddies.

Friends and relatives from Tupper Lake who traveled to Colorado to visit Larry to ski, party and enjoy the scenery were treated to motorcycle trips through the desert and hikes throughout Colorado and Utah, searching for hidden treasures.

Due to his kindness and enthusiasm, every visit was an experience that became a favorite lifetime memory.

In recent years, Larry lived in the Wolcott, Colorado area where he spent much of his time at his favorite place, his trailer on an acquaintance’s ranch. He spent time with local friends, too many to count. Many of them posted to Larry's social platform, after his death, to say how "generous, and kind- hearted..." he was and to state that every time he entered Bush Creek Bar & Saloon, he was met with "immense joy" and open arms.

Larry will be greatly missed in his hometown in the Adirondacks, and by friends scattered throughout his beloved Colorado. Fond smiles will accompany every shared story about Larry, his many escapades, his easygoing ways, and his loving nature.

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Lawrence Gilbert Cole, 80

Lawrence Gilbert Cole, 80, passed away at his home on Saturday September 2, 2023 from a short battle with Pancreatic Cancer.

Lawrence was born February 7, 1941 in Stewartstown, New Hampshire to Lawrence Cole, Sr. and Irvie (Greer) Cole. He graduated Tupper Lake High School in 1959 and received his Associated degree in Forestry from Paul Smith's College in 1962.

Larry served in the Army between 1963-1965 and received the Good Conduct Metal for his service; he also was a decorated Army sharpshooter. He was employed locally, working for Draper Corporation, Ton-da-lay and Christmas and Associates. After retirement, Lawrence became the Tupper Lake Assessor for a number of years and also served as Town Councilman. He was a longtime member of the Masonic Lodge, Lions Club and Township 19.

On July 2, 1966, Lawrence married Gloria Hart and they were together for 57 years. He is survived by Gloria, sister Betty Abare (Chuck), brother Bruce Cole, special nephew Russell Cole and his beloved nieces, nephews and devoted friends. Lawrence is predeceased by his parents, brothers David and Irvin, sisters Dolly Robistow and Alta Cole.

Lawrence loved the outdoors and was an avid hunter and stock car racing fan. He built his family's home on State Route 30 in 1975 and 20 years later, he and his friend Dick Sabin built a camp on Township 19 in 1995.

Lawrence loved spending time with his wife Gloria, his chocolate Lab Heidi and his family and friends. His family would like to thank Hospice and the third floor nurses at Adirondack Medial Center. In lieu of flowers, the family would like donations be sent to the Tri-Lakes Humane Society, 255 George La Pan Memorial Highway, Saranac Lake, NY 12983.

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Joyce Marie Facteau, 80

Joyce Marie Facteau, 80, of Tupper Lake, NY, passed away September 4, 2023 at her home, with her husband by her side. A Funeral service will be held at Frary Funeral Home, 24 Cliff Ave,Tupper Lake, NY on Friday September 8 at 9AM with her burial following at 10:30AM at St. Alphonsus Cemetery, Tupper Lake, NY.
Joyce was born in Fort Benning, GA to Joseph and Florence (Salsbury) Kazlowski on August 16, 1943. She moved to Tupper Lake in grade school. After her high school graduation, she went on to become a Manager in healthcare, working at the Tupper Lake ARC in Tupper Lake, NY.
Joyce is survived by her husband Bruce Facteau, and their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

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Catherine Ann Carroll, 88

Catherine Ann Carroll, 88, of Tupper Lake, passed away peacefully, on August 30, 2023, at Mercy Living Center surrounded by loved ones. Funeral services will be held at St. Alphonsus Church on September 4, at 11 AM. Visitation will be Sunday, September 3, 2023, at Frary Funeral Home in Tupper Lake.

Catherine was born in Tupper Lake on Nov 19,1934, the daughter of James Graham and Mary Catherine (O’Donnell) Graham. She attended Holy Ghost Academy in Tupper Lake, NY. She married Clarence L. Pickering Jr, on February 6, 1951. She was predeceased by her husband “Junior” on October 4, 1965. She was later remarried to Reginald J. Carroll.

She worked at the VA hospital and then Sunmount DDSO and continued to work in the community houses long after retirement. She was a lifelong parishioner of St. Alphonsus Catholic Church, where she also volunteered for several years.

During her lifetime, Catherine enjoyed traveling with friends and family. Her journeys took her to destinations near and far. She also enjoyed cruising the Caribbean with her family. In the summertime, she loved taking boat rides. She always had a big smile on her face and was happy to be out on the water spending many a summer and fall day on one of the many beautiful lakes of the Adirondacks.

Every summer, Catherine looked forward to blueberry picking and would bake blueberry muffins and her famous blueberry cobbler. In her later years, she enjoyed spending time with her many friends at the Senior Center, where she enjoyed weekly exercise and trips to the casino. Catherine loved the casino! She was also actively involved with friends in a local bridge group for many years. Catherine was always on the go, spending time with her numerous friends and family.

Catherine is survived by her children, Terry Pickering and companion, Gloria Exware of Tupper Lake, NY, Mary Ann (Pickering) Rose and companion, Bill Graham, of Ilion N.Y., Colleen (Pickering) and James Sabin, of Tupper Lake, Bonnie (Carroll) Sheley of Johns Creek, GA, and Tracy Carroll, of South Glens Falls, N.Y. She is also survived by her many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

She was predeceased by her beloved son, Ross Pickering of Tupper Lake on December 10, 1991. She was also predeceased by her parents, James and Mary Catherine Graham, and siblings, Arthur Graham, Marion (Graham) Blair, Janet (Graham) Blair, Rita (Graham) Arsenault, and James Graham.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to St. Alphonsus Catholic Church in Tupper Lake, NY. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to the caring staff at Mercy Living Center where she spent her final months.

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Thomas Taylor Bissell, 95

Thomas Taylor Bissell, 95, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 28, 2023 at Endion, his home in Long Lake, NY.

Born on March 14, 1928 in Charleston, SC, he was a graduate of Loomis School, and Cornell University with a bachelor’s degree in economics and a master’s degree in education. He was in advanced ROTC, graduating as a second Lieutenant. He immediately attended artillery school, and entered active duty in1951.

Tom served in the Korean War and was assigned to Battery C, 143rd Field Artillery Battalion of the 40th division. This was a 105 mm howitzer outfit. He was immediately assigned as a forward observer with the infantry on a steep hill overlooking the ruins of the Town of Kumsong where he spent about a month and gained great admiration for the American infantry.

He was named Executive Officer of Battery C for most the rest of his one-year tour in Korea. Tom was awarded the Bronze Star; Korean Campaign Medal with 3 campaign stars; UN Medal; and Korean Presidential Unit Citation; he was released from the Army in March 1953. He was very proud of the U.S Army.

On August 31, 1968 Tom married Jane Anne Goostray of Cambridge, MA, and from this union two sons were born, Thomas Taylor Bissell Jr. and Timothy Haworth Bissell.

Tom and Jane traveled extensively, including Europe, Mexico, and Egypt.

Tom taught at Newcomb Central School for 26 years and retired in 1985. Tom took great pride in being a lifelong resident of Long Lake and he looked upon the entire community as an extended family. Tom spent six years as an EMT on the Long Lake Rescue Squad and served as a member of the Long Lake Central School board for seven years. Tom served as a Long Lake Town Councilman and Long Lake Town Supervisor. Some of his accomplishments as town supervisor include garnering and preserving the historic steamship, “Buttercup; building theLong Lake Archives, and the Long Lake Transfer Station. He was a distinguished member of the Long Lake Historical Society and published many articles about the history of Long Lake.

Tom served in the American Legion Post #650 and was a guest speaker for the Memorial Day service many times.

Tom drifted into developing land, a pursuit for over 40 years. He was known for speaking his mind about local land regulation. He enjoyed buying tracts of land around Long Lake, building roads, which he found pleasurable, but not as much as he enjoyed leaf blowing and cleaning up the pine needles at Endion.

Tom was predeceased by his parents, (James) Talbot Bissell and Alice Middletown Williams; his brother Talbot Bissell; his son Timothy Howarth Bissell; and his wife Jane Goostray Bissell.

Tom is survived by his son Thomas Taylor Bissell Jr and Tommy’s long-time companion Christine Campeau; his nieces Marion Bissell Ober and Alice Bissell; his sister-in-law Margaret Goostray; and his beloved cat Lila.

He leaves behind a life well-lived and was truly a Long Lake legend. Tom lived a full and long-storied life filled with friends and he truly made an impact on everyone who crossed his path.

Visitation will be on 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. Friday, September 1, 2023at St. Henry’s Parish Center followed by graveside service.

There will be a reception immediately following the service at the Long Lake Diner.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Tom’s memory may be directed to the Long Lake Rescue Squad, PO Box 415, Long Lake, NY 12847.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Miller Funeral Home, 6357 State Rte. 30, Indian Lake.

To express online condolences, please visit www.brewermillerfuneralhomes.com

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Janet Chartier, 90

Janet Chartier, loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, sister and friend, left this world peacefully, surrounded by family on August 22, 2023, at the age of 90.

Janet was a beloved member of the entire Tupper Lake Community. Working with seniors was a big part of her adult life. During her employment she implemented the Meals on Wheels program as well as countless other senior programs which remain in place today. Her generous spirit toward others and to her community earned her the Citizen of The Year award in the early 1990s.

Janet was the matriarch and glue that held her (still growing) family together. She and her beloved husband Robert (BC) made sure every event they attended and each moment they had was special.

Janet’s July 4th picnics, Thanksgiving dinners and Christmas celebrations are legendary among her family. Whether Janet was hosting Gourmet Club with their large group of friends, celebrating family birthdays or gathering on Front Street after mass, Janet was the ultimate “Hostess with the Mostest.”

Janet loved spending weekends at her family camp that she and Bob proudly built together on Gordon Pond. Family and friends from all over the country enjoyed beach days, Janet’s hors d’oeuvres, berry picking, collecting golf balls on long walks, and crafting with pine cones. Winters were spent on the mountains skiing and sledding while skating on the pond and playing hockey were family favorites.

Janet was always on the go yet had an uncanny ability to find happiness in every moment life had to offer. Her good natured and thoughtful personality was contagious to everyone she met. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Janet was predeceased by her parents Donat and Annette (Genier) Richer, her siblings Raymond Richer, Theresa (Richer) Vanderhoff, Madeleine (Richer) Nadvornik, and Bert Richer. Her beloved husband Bob died in 2012; her twins Mark and Steven passed away in 1955 and her daughter Michelle in 2017.

Janet is survived by her sisters, Suzie LaVigne (Mark) and Marcy Gaudet. Her sons Mike (Mary Root), Scott (Mary Tice), son-in-law Tom LaMere, and daughter Lisa Augustine as well as 10 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Calling hours were at 10a.m. and the service began at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, August 29 at Frary Funeral Home in Tupper Lake. Burial followed at St. Alphonsus Cemetery at noon. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made locally to the Michelle LaMere Scholarship Fund and to the Adirondack Adult Center.

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Lynda M. Hesseltine, 83

Lynda M. Hesseltine, 83, of Jamesville, formerly of Citrus Springs, Florida and Tupper Lake, passed away peacefully on August 25, 2023 after a short battle with pancreatic cancer.

Lynda was born in Tupper Lake to the late Eva and Anthony Magrino, and graduated from Holy Ghost Academy in 1957. She retired from Sunmount DDSO in 1995 and spent 23 years living in Florida with her husband, Donald G. Hesseltine, Sr., enjoying the sunshine, trips to storytelling festivals, and attending many PGA golf tournaments, including the Master’s, and learned to tolerate winter again and root for the Syracuse Orange. She was happiest spending time with family and friends, as well as quiet time with a good book and a glass of wine.

In addition to her parents, Lynda was predeceased by her siblings, Robert Magrino, Dorothy Magrino Dalpiaz, Janet Magrino Rossi, and Wanda Magrino Tice.

She is survived by her loving husband, Don; her daughter, Amy Doonan Cronin and her husband, Peter; and her stepsons, Donald G. Hesseltine, Jr. and his wife, Carla; and Blaine Clark and his wife, Lisa. She is grandmother to Erin Cronin and James Cronin, Brendan Hesseltine, Jackson Clark, Aidan Clark, Liam Clark, Nate Clark, Ashley Vazquez, and Elliott Peay. She also leaves behind four great-grandchildren, beloved cousins, nieces and nephews; and devoted friends.

Her family is thankful to the staff at St. Joseph.

Services will be held at 10 am on Saturday, September 2 at Trinity Episcopal Church in Fayetteville. There will be no prior calling hours, and burial will be private.

Donations in Lynda. For guest book, please visit: www.SCHEPPFAMILY.com. EATON-TUBBS, Fayetteville. 315-637-3214.

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Raymond Auclair

Raymond Arthur Auclair passed away on August 22, 2023, at the Wickshire Senior Living Center in Raeford, NC. Ray was born on March 29, 1932, in Tupper Lake to Arthur Auclair and Lena Tromblay who pre-deceased him. He was married to the former Nancy Leighton Nadeau in Cadyville, NY on August 14, 1965. They just celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary.

He was also pre-deceased by his brothers Earl and James (Jim). He leaves behind his children, Robert Nadeau and wife, Carol, of Panama City Beach, FL; Roger Nadeau (and wife, Jennifer), of Williamstown, VT, Kate Gillman (and husband, David) of Holyoke, MA, and three other children, all of Houston, TX, namely, Leslee Williams (and husband, Glenn), Gisele House, and Tory Auclair (and wife, Susan).

Ray joined the U.S. Army Air Force in 1951. He retired from the Air Force in 1974 with the rank of Technical Sergeant, serving in various stateside bases as well as in Korea, England, Thailand during the Vietnam conflict, and Germany, earning many awards including the Meritorious Service Medal, several Air Force Commendation medals, and the Vietnam Conflict service medal. Following his military retirement, he worked for 23 years at the Geriatric Authority of Holyoke, Massachusetts, a 240-bed nursing home, as its Director of Food Service.

He has requested that there be no funeral. There will be an interment of his remains, with military honors, at the Veterans Cemetery in Shapleigh, Maine, on a date to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the St. Jude’s Hospital or Doctors Without Borders.

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Patrick O’Brien, 74

Patrick L. O’Brien, 74, passed away Monday, August 21, 2023.

Pat was born September 16, 1948 on Cedar River, Indian Lake, N.Y. He was the son of Bernard and Julia O’Brien.

Pat married Deborah Wallace in August, 1971 and lived in Indian Lake. They were married for 40 years until her passing in 2011. Pat was a skilled and versatile man who worked as an auto mechanic, fuel truck driver, carpenter and caretaker. Pat loved cutting and splitting firewood every spring while waiting for the thaw. He was often the first boat on the lake after the ice cut out, so that he could attend to the many docks that he looked after. He was always quick to lend a hand to anyone in need of his countless talents!

Pat is survived by his three daughters: Paula (Jim) Piraino; Michelle (Tom) Donnelly and Kelly(Paul) Brown. Pat was also survived by his grandchildren; Jazmin (Dillon) Roache, Chandler, Katarina and two great grand-children.

A graveside ceremony took place at the Long Lake Cemetery on Sunday, August 27 at noon. A reception followed at the Long View Lodge.

Please send any donations in Pat’s honor to the Long Lake Rescue Squad and Long Lake Volunteer Fire Department.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Miller Funeral Home, Indian Lake.

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Sally Ann (Pickering) Sterling

Sally Ann (Pickering) Sterling, 85, passed away on Wednesday, August 23, 2023 at North Country Nursing and Rehab in Massena.

Calling hours were on Tuesday, August 29 from 4p.m. to 6p.m. at the Green Funeral Home in Gouverneur. A graveside service was held on Wednesday, August 30 at 1p.m. at Holy Name Cemetery in Tupper Lake.

Sally was born in Tupper Lake on March 17, 1938, the daughter of Herman and Margaret (Young) Pickering.

She was a homemaker, a member of the ladies auxiliary in the Star Lake American Legion, and was a lady of strong faith and belief. Sally enjoyed camping, reading, traveling, playing bingo, and bowling. She was also a coupon clipping queen, liked to shop and attend garage sales, enjoyed jigsaw puzzles and spending time with friends, family and her pets.

Sally was married to Richard Sterling of Gouverneur who predeceased her. She was also previously married to Ora Aldridge.

Sally is survived by her daughter Christine and Scott Sutherland of Canton, her stepchildren Steven Sterling of Indiana, Amy and Harold Simmons of Gouverneur, Scott and Tania Sterling of Gouverneur, 15 grandchildren, and many great grandchildren.

She is predeceased by her parents, her husband Richard, her daughter Darlene Aldridge Page, and her infant brother Robert Pickering.

Memorial donations in honor of Sally are encouraged to Friends 4 Pound Paws, PO Box 394,
Gouverneur, NY 13642.

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Charles Bradt

Charles Bradt, passed on to his “Next Great Adventure” on Thursday, August 17, 2023 at his home in Sarasota, Florida. Born on June 19, 1937 in Syracuse, N.Y., he was affectionately known as Charlie.

He leaves behind his wife of 62 years, Alfreda (Aseel, formerly of Tupper Lake), children Camille Marchese and John Bradt, all of Sarasota; and grandchildren, Isabella & Joseph Marchese of Loundenville, N.Y.

He was predeceased by his parents Paul & Mary (Kamler) Bradt, and brother David. Also surviving Charlie, are his siblings MaryLynne Currie, Nancy Koliander, and brother Jack. Grieving his loss with them, are a host of nieces and nephews with fond memories of their fun-loving uncle, “Chucky Cheese.”

Charlie lived his life “outside of the box” until its very end. For over 50 years he and his wife Freda raised their family in Canton, N.Y. , forging valued friendships and making a life of adventures and sharing.

He graduated from Alfred University in 1959 with a degree in Ceramic Engineering. For fifteen years he taught math at SUNY Canton, before moving on with his dear friend Al Romoda, to own and manage rental properties in the Canton & Potsdam area.

Charlie was an ardent sports fan, skilled at exploring and sharing new ideas, a prolific friend maker, and, loved to travel about in his retrofitted “one of a kind” van. He was passionate about everything he took on, including teaching yoga, founding the “Yoga Loft” in Canton which continues on today, and teaching courses on “Mindfulness.”

Charlie was always at the ready to volunteer and help anyone who had no one else to help them, with whatever household job that needed to be done. He loved to fix things, and always had his tools on hand. No job was too big or too small. Charlie’s motto was “Have duct tape, will travel.” And, he was never happier than when covered in sawdust!

For many years he was a devotee of the teachings of the Kripalu Yoga Institute in Massachusetts, always a seeker of the deeper meaning of life. Namaste’ dear Charlie . . . we see your light.

A celebration of Charlie’s life will be held at his home in Sarasota, Florida at the family’s convenience.

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Herman Charland, 87

Herman Charland, 87, died Friday afternoon, August 18, 2023 at the Mercy Living Center in Tupper Lake. A Funeral Mass for Herman will be held on Monday, August 28, 2023 at 11a.m. at St. Alphonsus Church in Tupper Lake,. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Frary Funeral Home in Tupper Lake.

Herman was born October 23, 1935 to Harry and Lena Charland. He attended Holy Ghost Academy and graduated High School in 1954. While at Holy Ghost Academy, Herman was a skilled athlete and still holds Holy Ghost Academy’s all-time scoring record with his 53-point effort during a single boys’ basketball game.

After high school Herman joined the Army, entering into service in 1956. Herman married the love of his life, Irene Delair on November 26, 1959 and worked as a lineman for the Village of Tupper Lake and also worked in the maintenance department of Mercy Health Center in Tupper Lake.

He was a retired member of the Tupper Lake Fire Department and a lifelong member of the River Ridge Hunting Club. Herman still holds the record for "heaviest buck" at River Ridge Hunting Club for his 204-pound buck. Not only a hunter, Herman enjoyed playing golf too but most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his wife Irene and family.

Herman was a gentle soul and will be missed by everyone who knew him.

Herman was predeceased by his brother Paul and sister Charlotte; he is also predeceased by his great-grandson Daniel Charland. Herman is survived by his wife of sixty-three years, Irene, two sons, Jeffrey and his wife Becky, John and his wife Vicky, five grandchildren, Kurt Charland, Sarah Cole, Todd Charland, Chance Charland and Tanner (Paige) Charland. Herman is also survived by eight great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers the family would like donations sent to Catholic Charities and the Tupper Lake Fire Department. Online condolences may be made at www.fraryfuneralhome.com.

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Death Notice: Raymond Auclair

Word has been received on the passing of Raymond Auclair, 91, of Raeford, N.C,. formerly of Tupper Lake. Mr. Auclair passed away on August 22, 2023.

A full obituary will appear in next week’s edition of the Tupper Lake Free Press.

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James Barclay Radimer

On August 4th, 2023, Jim rode off on his Harley to meet our Lord. He was 76 years old and died peacefully in his Idaho home surrounded by his family after a long battle with Pancreatic cancer.

Born March 2nd, 1947, in Passaic New Jersey, he was the son of Charles and Lois (Martin) Radimer. He attended Northwestern Missouri State College, earning a master's degree in industrial arts and a minor in graphic design while also being president of his fraternity. It’s here where his leadership skills began.

Jim is survived by his wife “nurse good hands”, Mary Frechette, whom he married on June 24, 1978, in Tupper Lake, his sons, Luke Radimer of Boise, ID and Seth and his wife Angie Radimer of Star, ID, two granddaughters, Caitlin and Rae, who are the loves of his life, and grand pets Piper and Creek. Jim and Mary recently celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary.

Jim put his family first and worked hard his entire life to provide for them, always being the first to arrive, the last to leave, and never missing a day. He loved working with children and had a passion for teaching, both in and out of school. Not a day went by when he wasn’t teaching.

He taught at Tupper Lake High School for 33 years, retiring in 2003. During this time, he also built three homes for his family and around 100 homes in Tupper Lake and the surrounding area. Jim had a love for farming and gardening, was very active in the community and was loved and respected by all. He was president of the teacher’s union, a code officer, a fire inspector, ran a Ham Radio club, a member of The United Community Church, on the board of the Credit Union and helped construct sets for the school plays.

Retirement didn’t slow him down though. He loved the ocean and would drive to Florida every year, where he would be joined by his sons to camp and fish, searching for a home to retire to. After retiring to Florida, and his sons moving to Idaho, he sold the house in Tupper Lake and bought their second retirement home in Idaho.

Jim’s biggest love though was riding his Harley. After a 23-year hiatus (he sold his Harley upon getting married and having kids), and his sons graduating from college, he bought another Harley. When Mary retired, they rode cross-country every year from their Florida home, touring the country, visiting the National Parks, and of course Sturgis had to be part of the trip. He has quite a collection of HOG and rally pins and patches from Laconia, Americade, Daytona and Sturgis.

And he never stopped teaching. At the pool he took on teaching his grandchildren to swim. He took up pickle ball to play with his wife and children and was on the courts teaching everyone how to play. He also loved his country, and he loved the rodeo; he would take the family every year to Patriotic night.

Jim leaves a big void in the hearts of all who knew him.

Jim is survived by his brothers Brad (Jeanne) Radimer and Todd (Faith ) Radimer, sisters Janet (Kevin) Wilkerson and Joann Hooper and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents, Charles and Lois Radimer and his sister Nancy (Jack) Ryan.

A Celebration of Life service will take place at 4p.m. on Thursday, September 7th, at Southside Boulevard United Methodist Church, 5420 Southside Boulevard, Nampa, ID, 83686.This service will be livestreamed. The family also plans to have a Celebration of Life in Tupper Lake summer of 2024.

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Robert A. LaMere, 91

Robert A. LaMere, 91, passed away peacefully at his home in Tupper Lake on August 10 with his wife, Bevery, and Hospice staff at his side.

Bob was born in Kinderhook, N.Y. to Ann and Fred LaMere, where he spent his childhood days with his sister, Ruth.

When he was about eight or nine he came to Tupper Lake with his father and helped him build onto a structure that is now Trail’s End.

He attended Tupper High where he wanted to play football but couldn’t because his father needed his help.

After high school he joined the U.S. Air Force in the 1950s and was stationed in Tokyo, Japan, working as a lineman for several years.

When he was discharged from military service, Bob was happy to be back home in Tupper Lake and got a job at Benson Mines in Star Lake, driving a large Uke mining truck.

For a time he also worked helping to build the new locks on the St. Lawrence Seaway at Massena.

In 1942 he married Beverly LaMere and a year later their son, Steven A. LaMere was born.

Bob’s dad remarried about that time and he and his new wife Beverly ran Trail’s End together- a popular place for hunters, fishermen and loggers in those days.

His father and step-mother had four children together: Fred, Patty, Peter and Annie, so Bob had new brothers and sisters.

Bob loved to work in the woods and was taught the art of logging and forestry by his father-in-law, Barnard P. Badger, who was woods boss for the U.S. Bobbin and Shuttle here.

Later Bob started his own logging company- LaMere Professional Services- and delved into the dangerous tree service business. His wife would often work alongside him, preparing and delivering lunches and such.

Bob LaMere liked to hunt, fish and trap. At one point he leased hunting land near Sabattis and built a camp on it. The camp boasted 20 or so members over the years.

He was an active volunteer for many years with the Woodsmen’s Field Days, working with the wood carvers and bands that performed each year.

At Bob’s wishes there are no funeral services planned or celebrations of life. Donations in his memory, however, can be made to High Peaks Hospice

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Tai McLear, 24

On July 1st, 2023 Tai Adam McLear lost his long ongoing battle with Spinal Muscular Atrophy at the age of 24.

Tai was born on December 22, 1998 and was diagnosed at a very young age with this devastating disease when he was unable to stand because of the atrophy of his muscles. And so began a very tough road, but it was also when everyone would find out how determined he was to accomplish all he could!

Tai began his road to accomplishments at Children’s Corner in Tupper Lake and with the assistance of Mrs. Eileen Pickering, he was the recipient of a Make-A-Wish Foundation trip to Disney World in Florida with his family. Tai went on to attend our local schools and that is when in elementary school he developed his long friendship with his caregiver Mrs. Patricia LaMere, who he cherished!

During his time in grade school into high school he participated in many fund raising events for Muscular Dystrophy and was honored in 2008 for his hard work by representative Betty Little with a NY State Assembly Award. Much of Tai’s work was with the help of the Tupper Lake Fire Department, which was near and dear to his heart.

After his sophomore year at Tupper Lake High School, Tai moved to Raleigh, North Carolina with his grandparents. He attended Heritage High School where he graduated from in 2017. This was one of the times his grandparents were so very proud as they watched him motor his electric wheelchair to the front and center stage of the assembly of his senior class and their families.

Tai spoke about his disease and all of the trials along the way. He spoke of his medical issues including stays for lengths of time in Adirondack Medical Center, Albany Medical Center and Burlington, Vermont. He continued to speak of his numerous medical appointments and informed the audience of how he was humbled as he was having to adjust to a new school and everyone was so kind to him. When he finished, there was not a dry eye in the room except his. Following, he was swarmed by the graduates and families congratulating him.

Tai challenged himself next by attending college, receiving a Bachelor’s Degree and moving on to receive his Master’s Degree in the Science of Sports Management on May 12, 2023. Tai worked so hard for all of these accomplishments with many people assisting him, caring for him and keeping him on a healthy path as long as he was able. He wanted to achieve as much as he could to prove not only to himself, but to everyone, that he could do whatever he set his mind to!

Tai is survived by his mother Kam McLear (Foley) and companion Timothy Joubert, step-father Tom Foley and his companion Dody Day, siblings, who loved him so very much, Wyatt Foley, Paige Foley, Jeevika Branchaud and Ariana McLear, along with his step-sister Kiara Cote, grandparents Kevin and Francine McLear, who dedicated their lives to him, Uncle Ian (Patricia) McLear, Aunt Tracy (Randy) Schrader, Uncle William Foley, Aunt “Doobie” Barbara Foley, who visited Tai often and always showed him love, Uncle George Foley, cousins Nickolas McLear (Fiancée Abby Cowan), Austin Dukette (companion Cierra Thompson) Malorie McLear (Companion Tyler Farmer), Bradley McLear, Great Cousins Bennett, Aaryrn and Gunnar, along with many great aunts and uncles and many cousins of the McLear/Vaillancourt/Lemieux families.

Everyone who has ever met Tai in his short time on this earth was blessed to know him. He was loved and cherished by his family, his caregivers and the communities he lived in. He will never be forgotten!

A celebration of life will be held at Saint Alphonsus Church in Tupper Lake on Thursday, August 17, 2023 at 11a.m .with a gathering following at the V.F.W. on Park Street in Tupper Lake.

Family and Friends who wish to remember Tai may make a contribution to the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

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Jeffrey T. Bly, 73

If you ain’t laughing, you ain’t living!”

Jeffrey T. Bly, 73, Tupper Lake, died peacefully August 7, 2023 at his home on River Road, with his loving family by his side.

Born in Herkimer, N.Y. September 3, 1949 to Richard and Eleanor LaClair Bly, Jeffrey graduated from Ilion High School in 1968 and was proud to be a Golden Bomber.

He was a Vietnam Veteran serving from 1970 to 1972 with the 101st Airborne.

He married Kathleen Rowan in Tupper Lake July 14, 2002.

His favorite saying was: “If you ain’t laughing, you ain’t living!”

Jeffrey retired as a supervisor from Sunmount DDSO. He painted houses for 43 years with his best friend, Real Hurteau.

He was an avid outdoorsman, a LA Dodgers fan and despised the NY Yankees. He watched Yankee baseball just to see them lose.

Jeffrey is survived by his wife, Kathleen, five children: Traci (Matthew) Southwick, Meaghan (Arthur) Sparks, Cory (Breanna) LaQuay, Jeffrey LaQuay, all of Tupper Lake and Brooke (Eric) Hample, Long Lake.

He has five siblings, Richard Bly Jr, Ilion, N.Y., Elizabeth Gagnon, Daytona FL, Douglas Bly, Massachusetts, Margaret Foster, Dolgeville, N.Y. and Matthew Bly of Speculator, N.Y. He also has eight grandchildren.

Jeffrey is predeceased by his parents and a brother, Donald Bly.

Visitation will be held Thursday August 10, 2023 from 5p.m. to 7p.m. at Frary Funeral Home, 24 Cliff Ave, Tupper Lake. Funeral services will be held Friday August 11, 2023 at 11a.m. at St. Thomas Episcopal Church, Tupper Lake. Burial will follow in Lakeview Cemetery.

Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life after the burial at the VFW Post 3120 in Tupper Lake.

Memorial donations in Jeffrey’s memory can be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation at www.cff.org. The family would like to thank High Peaks Hospice for the exceptional care given to Jeffrey and his family.

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Harry “Red” Bourquin

Harry H. “Red” Bourquin passed away on July 25, 2023 at the age of 92.

Harry was born April 6, 1931 in Flagler, Colorado to Willis and Louise (Laurent) Bourquin. He was the youngest of four boys.

Harry had many different careers in his life time. His first career was the United States Air Force. After 20 years of service, he retired as a Master Sergeant E7 and moved his family to Bloomingdale, N.Y. and acquired a job at Rich Plan, a meat packing plant in Lake Clear.

Following his second career, he became a small appliance repair technician for Cashier Furniture and Appliances. He then purchased the service and repair side of Cashier’s and started his own business “Red’s Appliance Service” located in Bloomingdale.

Harry semi-retired from his business to work at Ward Lumber for a few years and finally retiring from Hyde Mobil at the age of 87.

Harry will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his willingness to help others and his dedication and love for his family.

Harry is survived by his three daughters Dawn Flynn (Andy) of Saranac Lake, Laurie Bourquin Muncil of Saranac Lake and Ramona Boylan of Piercefield. Also surviving are three grandchildren, Elizabeth Boylan, Michael Boylan and Raymond Muncil and one great granddaughter Lydia Boylan.

Harry’s family would like to extend their deepest gratitude and thanks to his Hyde’s family for their love, care and support over the years.
Funeral arrangements are in care of the Fortune-Keough Funeral Home, 20 Church Street, Saranac Lake, NY 12983. There was a graveside service at Brookside Cemetery, Saint Armand, Essex County, N.Y. August 4, 2023 at 11a.m. There were no calling hours at his request. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Wounded Warrior Project in Harry’s memory at woundedwarrierproject.org.

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Pearl "June" Hutchinson

Pearl "June" Hutchinson, passed away surrounded by family and loved ones on August 4, 2023. Born January 21, 1941 June spread joy and happiness to all she met and will be sorely missed.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, August 10 at the Frary Funeral Home in Tupper lake with calling hours from noon to 1p.m., followed by a service at 1 p.m. The burial will take place at Saint Alphonsus Cemetery immediately following.

A lifelong resident of Tupper Lake, June was strong and kind, devoting much of her life to serving and caring for others.

She worked many years as a nurse’s assistant at the Adirondack Medical Center in Saranac Lake. She eventually moved on to join the staff at Sunmount until her retirement after more than 22 years.

After her retirement she devoted her life to raising her great grandson Devin Nicholson. She was devoted in her faith and delighted in becoming a Eucharistic Minister. In her spare time she found beauty in the things around her, sharing her love of nature through gardening, bird feeding and tending flowers.

She is survived by her brothers Don, Pat, and her sister Darlene. Her memory lives on in her surviving children: Barbara (Rock) Theriault, Pamela (Kerry) Card, Tammy (Glen) Foley, Zeke (Tina LaVair) Hutchinson, and Kevin Baker, as well as her 33 grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren nieces and nephews.

A special thank you goes out to her grandson Matthew Bohin for taking care of her during the times other family members could not be there. June has left us to rejoin in death her husband Zeke Hutchinson and her daughter, Zena Baker. She is also predeceased by her brothers Leo, Bob, Joe, Fred, David, Dick and sister Ellen as well as her parents, Pearl and George Baker.

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Faith Johnson Day

Faith Johnson Day passed away August 1, under the care of her family and caregivers at Mercy Center in her hometown of Tupper Lake.

Faith was born August 14, 1930 and was the daughter of William C. (Chet) Johnson and Ellen Ruth Knapp Johnson.

Faith was predeceased by her brothers Stanley and Bill and her sisters Dorothy Ouillette, Mary Ellen Hall and Emily Brown. One brother, Fenton (Wes), resides in Georgia with his family.

Faith’s husband of forty years, Peter P. Day, passed away in 2013. Her previous marriage to the late Anthony Pastizzo ended in 1972.

Faith was employed by Tupper Lake Telephone and New York Telephone in the 1950’s. She also worked as a teacher’s aide and homemaker and raised her four children in Gouverneur, N.Y. and later four step-children in Plattsburgh, N.Y. and Barford St. Michael, England.

She sold Fuller-Brush products door-to-door to assist in home finances. She volunteered for many clubs and charitable organizations in Gouverneur and volunteered at St. James School and as a Youth Religion teacher. When her children were older, Faith furthered her business education and completed bookkeeping and secretarial courses through the University of Maryland extension program at RAF Upper Heyford, England, 1976-1978. Faith’s last decade of employment was as a bookkeeper and secretary with United Way of Clinton County in Plattsburgh.

Faith and Peter adventured greatly as a military family in the USAF and in addition to their years in Plattsburgh together, their family accepted an assignment to RAF Upper Heyford, England.

Faith traveled widely and adored markets. She made and kept many friends for her whole life. She made her home an open safe place for her children and all of their friends. She loved camping and their winter trailer park in Lake Wales, Florida during retirement. Faith loved golfing and bowling and her friends from leagues and her old telephone-operator days.

Of all her pursuits, Faith most loved music and playing piano and singing. She was a choir member and soloist with The Saranac Village at Will Rogers Singers in Saranac Lake 2013-2017. Prior to her years of illness, Faith was an active member of the Saranac Lake United Methodist Church.

Faith is also survived by her daughter Ellen Pastizzo, Peru, N.Y., Linda Pascarelli and her husband Anthony, Wilmington, N.Y. and her sons, Frank Pastizzo and his wife Susan, Elizabethtown and Anthony Pastizzo and his wife Cheryl, Ogdensburg.

Faith is also survived by her step-children Veronica Day, John Day, Yvonne Day Lund, and Nancy Day and numerous grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Fortune-Keough Funeral Home, Inc. in Saranac Lake. Graveside services will take place at Lake View Cemetery in Tupper Lake at the convenience of the family. Family and friends wishing to remember Faith may make memorial contributions to the Tri-Lakes Humane Society in care of the funeral home. Family and friends can also share their condolences and memories at fortunekeoughfuneralhome.com.

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