Fredrick “Pierre” Robare, 93

Fredrick “Pierre” Robare, age 93, of Madison, passed away Wednesday, November 1, 2023 at his home. He was born September 25, 1930 in Tupper Lake, to Frederick Joseph and Mary Ann (Smith) Robare. He married his wife, Linda Ann Talbot, on June 8, 1978 in Winchester, VA.

Fredrick was a U.S. Veteran of the Korean War where he served in the Air Force with the 82nd airborne, 3rd and 10th Para rescue, and was attached to the 5th Special Forces.

He was founder of Atlas Industrial & Ohio Contractors of Painesville Township providing industrial maintenance for Lake, Geauga and Cuyahoga Counties for 40 years.

He was a Member of V.F.W. Post 7754 of Fairport, F.O.P.A. Lodge 25 and the NRA.

He is survived by his daughters, Corinne (Danny) Tellier, Renee (Jeffery) Kuhns; son, Curtis Robare; 7 grandchildren; and 6 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife and soul mate, Linda Ann Robare; great-granddaughter, Cameron H. Kuhns; sister, Theresa Mary Pruonto; and brother, George Edwin Robare.

Private family services will be observed. Final Resting Place will be Maple Grove Cemetery in Thompson. Behm Family Funeral Home of Madison is assisting the family at this time.

Online obituary and condolences may be viewed at www.behmfuneral.com

Richard M. LaValley

Richard M. LaValley, the son of Melvin and Helen LaValley who was born in Tupper Lake on May 10, 1934, passed away peacefully on October 31st, with family by his side.

“Dick” was educated in Tupper Lake schools, leaving high school to enter the United States Navy during the Korean War, at which time he received his GED and an Honorable Discharge.

In 1954, returning to reside in Tupper Lake, he was employed in several auto agencies, the Tupper Lake National Bank, Sunmount VA Hospital, and Sunmount State School, from which he resigned to attend SUNY Potsdam as a psychology major.

He met his wife, Ethel, during his time at the VA Hospital, and they married in Hermon, N.Y., on May 22, 1965. At Potsdam he attained the academic honor of being on the President’s List, and as a senior, was selected to teach Introduction to Psychology to Freshman students.

Following graduation in 1977, he accepted employment with St. Lawrence County as a Youth Employment Counselor, and he eventually became the Summer Program Coordinator.

He moved on to work at the St. Lawrence Psychiatric Center. During that time, he continued in graduate school, which was completed in 1982 at St. Lawrence University in Canton.

Dick retired from State Service and accepted final employment at the program director for Seaway House before retiring altogether in 1997.

His final years of service to the community saw him acting as a volunteer on the Board of Visitors at the St. Lawrence Psychiatric Center, as a strong advocate for the mentally ill.

His interest in community youth resulted in him coaching girls’ basketball at the elementary, high school, and A.A.U. levels. Additionally, over a number of years, he and his wife sponsored numerous basketball scholarships for young female athletes.

Dick was most proud of his family and their successes.

He is survived by his wife Ethel (Bill) LaValley, and his three beloved daughters: Aimee Martini (Wayne Smith), Alicia Wentworth (Mark), Denise Sero (Reuben Jr.), and his fur babies, Jake and Dash. He was predeceased by his infant daughter Beth Ann, forever known as “Notre Petite Fleur.”

He treasured his incredible grandchildren: Hannah and Morgan Martini; Nicholas, Emily, and Luke Wentworth; and Lowen and Olivia Sero. Additionally, he had many nieces and nephews who were special to him.

No formal calling hours will be conducted; however, burial will be held at the Hermon Cemetery at 10a.m. on Saturday, November 4th. A Celebration of Life will be held at the LaValley family home, immediately following, from 11 a.m. to 4p.m., at 3130 County Route 21 (Canton-Pyrites Road) in Canton.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Canton Central Athletics Boosters Club, 99 State Street; Canton, NY 13617.

Memories and condolences may be shared online at www.olearyfuneralservice.com. Arrangements for Richard M. LaValley are under the care of the O’Leary Funeral Service of Canton.

Linda Denis, 71

Linda Denis, 71, peacefully passed away surrounded by her loving family on Saturday, October 7, 2023, at Saratoga Hospital. She was born on June 12, 1952, in Tupper Lake, to Charles Rice and Marie Gaff Rice. She resided in both Gansevoort, N.Y. and Ocala FL.

Linda attended Tupper Lake schools and graduated from Canton ATC with an AAS degree in Data Processing. She worked at Key Services in Albany NY until the birth of her youngest son Kyle. She was very involved with the schooling of both her sons.

Linda dedicated her life to her family, fulfilling the role of a devoted homemaker. She found joy in activities such as knitting and engaging with her numerous close friends and clubs she actively participated in. She cruised and traveled up and down the eastern seaboard with her “Curves” ladies who she loved.

Linda is survived by her husband of 42 years, Gregory Denis and her two sons, David Denis (Rosa Chan) and 2 beautiful granddaughters Abigail and Ellianne of San Diego CA and son Kyle Denis of Gansevoort NY. She is also survived by siblings Marie Robinson, Charles Rice Jr. and his wife Susan, Judy Lalonde and her husband Lonnie, Robert Rice and his wife Tammy, Jeffery Rice and his fiancé Nichole Bedore and Michael Rice and his wife Michelle, all from Tupper Lake. She is also is survived by several nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Charles Rice and Marie Gaff Rice, her sister Shirley and niece Jennifer Rice.

In accordance with the family's wishes, there will be no calling hours or service at this time. The arrangements are being handled by Compassionate Funeral Care, Inc., located at 402 Maple Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

You can express your condolences by visiting www.compassionatefuneralcare.com.

Susan Elizabeth Thomas Merrill, 62

Susan Elizabeth Thomas Merrill, 62, of Orange Park, Florida, passed away peacefully on Saturday, the 29th of July, 2023 at her summer home in Eagle Crag Lake, N.Y. Susan was born on the 2nd of February, 1961, to Edward (Ed) Earl Thomas and Mary Esther Farlow Thomas in Levelland, TX.

After living most of her childhood all over Texas and a year in Tennessee, she moved to Virginia with her family where she was graduated from West Springfield High School in 1979. She then went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing in 1983 from Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University. That is where she met the love of her life Lee, they married in 1983 before relocating to Orange Park, FL.

Susan worked for American Transtech for several years before becoming a mother and promoting herself to household engineer, expertly raising three wonderful children, before and eventually substitute teaching for ten years at Montclair Elementary. Susan spread love across her pillars of family, faith, and service to others continually lending a helping hand and words of kindness to go with her sweet smile and Texas drawl across her pillars of family, faith, and giving. Across the Merrill and Thomas families everyone could always count on her steadfast support and love, sometimes sprinkled with a delicious chocolate dessert (which she called her love language).

Susan enjoyed traveling and making memories, including living overseas when Lee worked in Okinawa, Japan and Guantanamo Bay, Cuba and spending summers with family, friends, and nature in the Adirondack Mountains. Susan loved staying connected with her grandchildren and adult children, parents and brothers through frequent messages, FaceTime calls, and as many visits as she could manage with them across the country—and sometimes around the world.

She enjoyed photography, exercising, spending precious Nana moments with her grandchildren, scrapbooking, and rock painting where she loved secretly spreading her talents as little works of art to be discovered. Susan was an active volunteer with dedicated many years to volunteering in service of Orange Park Methodist Church, English Springer Rescue America, and Orange Park Medical Center.

Susan is survived by her husband and soulmate Lee Merrill of Orange Park, FL; three beloved children - daughter Karen (John) Griffin of Albuquerque, NM; son Bryan (Chandler) Merrill of Atlantic Beach, FL; daughter Ellen Merrill (fiancé Stephen Reynolds) of Houston, Texas; along with her adored grandchildren, Graham and Mabel Griffin of Albuquerque, NM; and Josephine and Loreley Merrill of Atlantic Beach, FL.

Also surviving are her treasured parents Ed and Maryward E. Thomas and Mary Esther Farlow Thomas of Bryan, TX; cherished brothers Edward (Penny Sue) Thomas, Jr of College Station, TX; and Bill (Donna) Thomas of Corpus Christi, TX; and six loved nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her in-laws Bruce and Kathleen Merrill.

A Service of Remembrance and Celebration will be held on Saturday, October 21, 2023 at ten o’clock in the morning at Orange Park Methodist Church with Reverend Charles Lever officiating. A reception will be held at Orange Park Methodist Church’s Family Life Center following the service. Donations to support Susan's legacy can be made payable to "The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida" and mailed to 245 Riverside Avenue, Suite 310, Jacksonville, FL, 32202. Please designate the "Susan Merrill Fund" in the memo line. Or you can give online at www.jaxcf.org/memorial/. Please share your memories and condolences at www.fraryfuneralhome.com.

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to the many relatives and friends for their outstanding and continuing love, prayers, and support through visits, cards, calls, messages, and meals.

Elaine Louise Peterson/Coddington/Lamporte

Elaine Louise Peterson/Coddington/Lamporte of Long Lake flew off like a kite and took to the skies heading home on Wednesday, September 13, 2023.

This strong red-headed force of nature gave her best to this world, leaving behind very little on her bucket list.

She was born on September 7, 1936, to Genevieve Lucille Peterson (Dentler) and Thure Emmanuel Peterson, in Rockford, Illinois. She had one older sister, Sylvia Anne Peterson.

She was interred in Long Lake Cemetery alongside her first husband, Floyd Leonard Coddington, on Friday, September 15.

Elaine’s childhood was characterized by her love of family. Whether she was biking to her grandma’s (Edna Dentler) home in Davis Junction, Illinois, enjoying family gatherings with her cousins at Dorothy’s Farm, spending time at her Uncle Oscar’s lake house in Wisconsin, working in a Caramel Popcorn factory and a Car Hop, horseback riding, ice skating, going to church and just being a typical young girl and teenager.

Elaine attended Ripon College in Ripon, Wisconsin. It is there she met her first husband, Floyd “Flood” Coddington. They both had strong connections to Long Lake. Elaine’s connection was Long Lake, Wisconsin; Flood’s Long Lake was in upstate New York. When Elaine met Flood, Elaine acquired the nick name “Petie.”

They married on March 8, 1958. From their union three children were born: Natalie Anne Luxford (Will, Emily, Scott, Callan, Raylan, Nick, Jodi, Liam), Kenneth Floyd Coddington (Alice, Henry and Oscar) and Amy Louise Coddington-Burnett (Matt).

For the next 22 years, Petie and Flood lived a military life. Many moves and transitions. Elaine always made every move a new adventure brimming with potential. In 1972, Flood’s military career was winding down and the family moved to Manassas, Virginia. They lived there until 1986.

In 1985, Petie and Flood bought a house in Long Lake. Not yet ready to fully retire they also decided to buy a marina, “Coddington’s Boathouse”.

They ran it as a couple for four years until Flood’s sudden passing.

For the next six years, Petie continued to operate Coddington’s Boathouse while juggling a librarian job at Long Lake Central School and finishing her house that she and her late husband created. Bedecked in lipstick, a cute neck scarf and matching overalls, Petie ran that marina with style, grace and panache.

After 11 years of somewhat wild widowhood Elaine’s name changed for the third time. It was a matchmaking effort that worked. On October 20th, 2001, Elaine, now nicknamed “Lainie” married Richard Lamporte. They had a love built on travel, faith, family, and military ties. They shared their time between Burke, Virginia and Elaine’s beloved Long Lake.

Elaine leaves behind her indelible mark. Her spirit will never be forgotten and was one that transformed all she met. She embraced life and wanted all those around her to embrace it as well.

Those wishing to commemorate Elaine, please contact ASPCA Gift Processing Center, POB 96939, Washington, DC, 20090-6929. She was a lover of all creatures.

Mariruth (Carmichael) Brown

Mariruth C. Brown of Tupper Lake passed away on September 25, 2023, at UVM Medical Center in Burlington, Vermont, following a lengthy illness.

Born on October 28, 1954 at Mercy Hospital in Tupper Lake, she was the daughter of Floyd H. and Ruth M. Carmichael.

After graduating from local schools she attended various colleges, obtaining degrees from North Country Community College, SUNY Potsdam, SUNY Plattsburgh and Clarkson University.

After receiving an MBA in Finance from Clarkson, she embarked on a lengthy career for the State of New York, as a financial analyst for various departments within the state system. After illness forced her retirement she moved back to Tupper Lake to be with family and friends.

Among her hobbies, which included making and teaching paper crafting, woodworking and wood turning. She also audited courses each semester at the various local colleges in the Capital District. Education was a lifelong pleasure for her.

She was also an accomplished chef, and cooking for family gatherings was always a labor of love for her.

She is survived by a son, Jason Trombley, two brothers, Kenneth and Daniel Carmichael, a sister Margaret Paiement and several nieces and nephews

There will be no funeral or memorial service, which was her wish. There will be a simple gathering in the near future, for all her family members to pay their last respects. She will be interred in the family plot at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Potsdam N.Y., to be reunited with her parents.

If you wish to honor Mariruth, you can make a donation to St. Jude’s Hospital in Memphis, TN or the Tupper Lake Food Pantry, both of which were dear to her heart.

William H. “Steve” Stevenson

William H. Stevenson Jr. passed away on 15 September 2023 as a result of complications with Metastatic Melanoma.

At his request and to fully honor his wishes, there will be no funeral or memorial services.

William H. Stevenson Jr. “Steve” was born 11 June 1944 in Freeport, New York to the late William H. Stevenson and Eva Church. He attended both Tupper Lake and Montclair (NJ) High Schools, graduating in 1962.

He then enrolled at St. Lawrence University, studying History/Government until 1965 when he enlisted in the United States Army. Immediately following Basic, Advanced Infantry and Airborne Training, Steve was assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division (The “All American” Division) where he was deployed with the division to the Dominican Republic. After returning to the states, Steve successfully completed the remainder of his 3-year Army enlistment as a Light Weapons Specialist and a Computer Operations Shift Supervisor, attaining the rank of SGT/E5 and receiving an Honorable Discharge.

After Army life, Steve worked for Eastman Kodak where he spent the next 34 years, before retiring to Tupper Lake in 2002. Steve always achieved success in whatever he pursued. While at Kodak, he started in an entry level position in the tape library and made his way up to a computer operation shift supervisor position. He soon took an assignment with the Data Communications and Telecommunications Hardware division, where his focus was in the planning, coordinating and installing Data and Telecommunications hardware for both local and remote areas. He eventually became the supervisor for the Data Communications Equipment Group.

Posted to the U.S. Virgin Islands, Steve took on more responsibility as the manager of the Eastman Kodak International Sales Corporation (EKISC), where he was involved in day-to-day operations. When hurricane HUGO swept through the Caribbean, Steve transferred the office, maintaining its international role. Finally, Steve focused on supporting the development of the corporate IT backbone during his last 10 years in Kodak as the Corporate Telecom Coordinator for Latin America and the Asian Pacific Region.

Steve was active and loved to ski, snowmobile, golf, boat and read. He played in several amateur hockey leagues while living in Rochester. He served on the board at the Tupper Lake Country Club, the VFW Post 3120, and American Legion Post 0220 and was active in AM Vets and the NYS Paratrooper Association.

He loved working at Whiteface in guest and host services for 10 years. He volunteered at Big Tupper for five years, took on a one-year general manager role at Big Tupper, and contributed as a volunteer on the Big Tupper Management team. He was also ski instructor, enjoyed the golf league and was an avid race car fan.

He was always finding ways to assist whenever he could. Steve’s time with us was positive and impactful, always supporting many friends and family and contributing to many communities at many different levels. His selflessness and kindness will live on in the hearts and minds of everyone he met.

Steve is survived by his beloved sister, Deborah S. McGuidwin, his niece, Ann Connor and nephews Matt Connor, John Connor and Sean Connor.

Robert G. Stenger, 79

Robert G. Stenger, Jr. age 79, of Tupper Lake, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 19, 2023.

Bob was born April 25, 1944 in Hudson, NY and graduated from Bristol Eastern High School, CT in 1962.

Bob had an impressively long resume. He was an orthopedic technician in the U.S. NAVY and a Vietnam veteran. He was a police motorcycle officer in Wichita, KS and eventually retired as a correctional officer. He held a variety of positions in between – including chef, bartender, truck driver and electrician.

Bob volunteered as a Boy Scout leader, hunter safety class instructor and a rescue diver. He was an excellent teacher, always willing to share his wealth of knowledge. He enjoyed many outdoor activities including hunting, fly fishing, golfing and motorcycles. He was unmatched at completing a crossword puzzle and he loved telling a good story. Bob always had a quick witted one-liner to share.

He is survived by his children Robert Stenger of Wichita, KS, Cynthia (Stenger) and Marlon Green of Wichita, KS and Erika (Stenger) and Joe Sciortino of Tupper Lake. He is also survived by his grandchildren Isaiah, Alyssa, Kianna, Jacob, Jonathan, and Winnie and his great grandchildren Neveah, Aiyanna, Hendryx and Antonella.

He was predeceased by his parents Robert and Ruth (Owens) Stenger and daughter in law Billie Michelle Bryant-Stenger.

In true "Bob" fashion, he requested no services be held on his behalf. Instead please share a toast in his honor. Cheers!

Danny Otts, 73

A graveside service for Danny R. Otts, age 73, of Tupper Lake, will be held on Friday, September 29, 2023 at 2:30p.m. at Gale Cemetery in Piercefield with Rev. Rick Wilburn officiating. Calling hours will be held on Friday, September 29, from noon to 2p.m. at Frary Funeral Home, Tupper Lake.

Mr. Otts passed away on Saturday, September 23. 2023 at Mercy Living Center in Tupper Lake.

He is survived by his loving friend and partner, Sharon Dukette; his children, Danny Hoffman and his wife Nikki, Missy Hoffman, Joshua Hoffman and his wife Rebeka, Samuel Hoffman and his wife Amy; his step-children, Jeanne Kavanagh and her husband JP, Bonnie Dukette and her partner Darren, Micheline Vaillaicourt and her husband Roger, James Dukette and his wife Christy, Vicki Hubbard and her husband Harry; his siblings, Charles, Robert, Dennis, David, Rita, Becky, Diane, Mike; several grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; and multiple nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is predeceased by his parents, Charles and Joyce Otts; his siblings, Eve, Cora, Dewey, Jeff, Greg, and Mark.

Danny was born on August 20, 1950, in Syracuse, N.Y., the son of the late Charles and Joyce (Hampton) Otts. He moved to Tupper Lake in the 1980’s and worked many years driving truck and working in construction business. He enjoyed bowling, hunting, fishing, and playing at the casino.

Condolences may be made online at www.fraryfuneralhome.com

Heidi (Hutchins) LaQuay, 67

Heidi Jeleah (Hutchins) LaQuay, 67 of Tupper Lake, passed away suddenly on September 10, 2023. She was born March 7, 1956 to Floyd and Jane (Gale) Hutchins and attended Tupper Lake High School, graduating in 1974.

Heidi married Terry LaQuay April 30, 1977 at St. Alphonsus Church and together, they lived and raised their own children in many states along the East Coast while Terry served in the Navy. They settled back in Tupper Lake in 1988.

Heidi worked as a child care provider for many years and at L.P. Quinn Elementary School.

She enjoyed many hobbies such as sewing, knitting, crocheting, gardening and raising her family.

Heidi leaves behind her husband Terry of 46 years, her children Eric (Judy) LaQuay, Tara LaQuay (Scott Shannon) and Ethan LaQuay. She is also survived by her brothers, Michael (Joanne) Hutchins, Shawn (Maureen) Hutchins and Patrick Hutchins; sisters Michelle Hutchins (Rick Tessier) and Devin (Randy) LaFave. She is also survived by her four grandchildren, whom she adored greatly: Emma Dubey (Frank), Taran Dubey, Nole and Leona LaQuay as well as many nieces and nephews.

Heidi is preceded in death by her parents and nephew Clint Hollingsworth. There will be no services, as per Heidi's wishes. Donations in Heidi's honor may be made to the Tri-Lakes Humane Society and the Tupper Lake Rescue Squad.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.