Evelyn Dorene Johnson

Evelyn Dorene Johnson, 92, passed away peacefully in her sleep on February 6, 2026.

Born on March 21, 1933, in the Town of Macomb, she was the daughter of Arnold Wesley and Marion Irene (Finley) Wylie.

On June 10, 1951, Evelyn married her teenage sweetheart and the love of her life, Robert G. Johnson. Their beautiful love story spanned 72 devoted years, until his passing in 2023. United, they established a life centered on family and lasting commitment, raising four children: Vicky of Federal Way, WA; Scott (Thayne) of Snohomish, WA; Marion (Don) of Marysville, WA; and Robert Wayne Johnson, who preceded her in death on October 7, 2025. She is lovingly remembered by her four grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, and eleven great-great-grandchildren.

Evelyn’s husband worked in heavy construction, and the family traveled across many states before eventually settling in Federal Way, Washington. While raising her children, Evelyn worked at a paper mill in the Gouverneur area, packing apples in Chelan, and later as a nurse’s aide and housekeeper.

Family was the heart of Evelyn’s world. She cherished time spent with loved ones and friends, whether playing bingo, visiting the casinos, reading Amish novels, or enjoying the companionship of the many cats she adored throughout her life. During her years raising her children, she found joy in gardening, square dancing, and cooking. She was especially known for hosting unforgettable Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners, welcoming nearly 30 family members with open arms and a table overflowing with food.

Evelyn was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Delbert Floyd Wylie and Eddy Arnold Wylie; her sister, Donalda Earlene Wylie; her beloved husband, Robert G; and her son, Robert Wayne.

In a poignant reminder of life’s continuity, on the very day Evelyn passed, her 11th great-grandchild, Jaylynn Renae Marshall, was born.

Evelyn will be laid to rest at Marysville Cemetery in Marysville, Washington, reunited with the love of her life and held forever in the hearts of those who cherished her.

Norton Taylor

Norton “Nort” W. Taylor, age 103, of Gouverneur, passed away on February 6, 2026 at home under the care of his loving family.

Calling hours will be held at French Funeral Home in Gouverneur on Friday, May 22, 2026 from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. His funeral service will be held at the Gouverneur First Presbyterian Church on Saturday, May 23, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. Burial with military honors will be in Riverside Cemetery, Gouverneur. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Nort was born on April 7, 1922 in Gouverneur to the late Martin W. and Jessie (Robinson) Taylor. He graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1940, and Clarkson University Radio Operators Classes in 1943 which was critical in his service in the United States Army Airforce during WWII in the Air Ground Aid Section in China, Burma, and the India Theatre where he served in Military Intelligence. He served from 1943 until his honorable discharge in 1945. After his military discharge, Nort used his GI Bill benefits to attend Albany College of Pharmacy. He graduated as a Pharmacist in 1949 and started full time employment with Kinneys in Massena.

Nort married Joan Brickey on September 1, 1951 at the Massena First United Methodist Church. They enjoyed traveling together and Nort enjoyed taking fishing trips. Joan passed away on March 26, 2001.

Nort had a very long career with Kinney Drugs. He worked as a general clerk from 1940 – 1942 and after his military and college years worked as an Assistant Store Manager from 1949 – 1953, Store Manager from 1953 – 1967, Store Supervisor and Merchandise Manager from 1967 – 1974, Vice President of Operation from 1974 –1976, President and CEO from 1978 – 1986 and Chairman of the Board from 1986 until his retirement in 2006. Nort continued his Kinney career working with the Kinney Foundation for a number of years.

He was very involved in his community. Nort served two terms as President of the Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce, Chairman of the E.J. Noble Hospital Fund Drive, Vice President of the Gouverneur Rotary Club, Member of the Gouverneur Planning and Zoning Board, Chairman of the St. Lawrence National Bank Advisory Board, Life Member of the Masonic Lodge #217, was an Elder and Deacon of the Gouverneur First Presbyterian Church, and was Director of the United Helpers Nursing Home and United Helpers Adult Home. In 1984 he was awarded the Albany College of Pharmacy Distinguished Service Medal.

He is survived by two children, Patricia (Mark) Hunt and Lisa (Phil) Joseph, a daughter-in-law Rita Taylor, nine grandchildren, Christopher (Lauren)Taylor, Ashley (Adrian) Moritz, Joshua Hunt, Aaron Hunt, Rebekah (Mike) Slafka, Sarah (John) Fisher, Jennifer (Dennis) Corey, Amanda (Taylor) Osgood and Danielle (Cory) McCann-Tam, 17 great-grandchildren, a niece, Miki Hopper, and a cousin, Katie Pistolesi.

Nort is predeceased by his wife, Joan Taylor, son, Mark Taylor, brother, Robert Taylor, sister, Peggy Hopper, and a grandson, Adam Reynolds.

Donations in memory of Norton Taylor may be made to the Kinney Foundation, 29 E. Main Street, Gouverneur, NY 13642 or the Gouverneur First Presbyterian Church, 22 Church Street, Gouverneur NY 13642.

Lisa Cole

Lisa Cole, age 70, passed away on February 3, 2026 at Massena Rehabilitation and Nursing Center. Calling hours will be held on Tuesday February 10, 2026 from 10 AM until the time of service at 11 AM at Frary Funeral Home, 33 Park Street, Gouverneur.

Lisa was born on January 17, 1956 in Gouverneur to the late Gordon and Jean (LaRock) Storie. She attended school in Gouverneur. Lisa was a nurse’s aide many years ago at EJ Noble Hospital, a homemaker and an artist. She married Jack Griffith and Lyndon “Benji” Benjamin, both marriages ended in divorce. On July 4th, 2005 she married James A. Cole Sr.

She is survived by her daughters, Tracy (James) Lariviere of Vermont, Bobbi Jo (Bob) Pike of Gouverneur, Sabrina (Dennis) Chartrand of Harrisville, a sister Karen (Peter) Knauerhase of Cortland, a brother Kevin (Jane) Storie of Gouverneur, her grandchildren Mason, Gordon, Madison and Sylvie, several nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her parents, her husband James, and a son in law, Clayton Myers.

Lisa enjoyed painting, sewing, baking and gardening.

Memorial donations in Lisa’s memory may be made to Toys for Tots or to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

Online condolences may be shared with Lisa’s family at www.fraryfuneralhome.com.

Craig M. Liscum

Craig M. Liscum, age 38, passed away unexpectedly on January 31, 2026, at Gouverneur Hospital.

Craig, affectionately known as Craigy in his younger years, was born in Gouverneur on December 31, 1987, to Rick and Tammy Liscum. He graduated from Gouverneur High School in 2007. He was formerly employed as a Correctional Officer with the NYS Department of Corrections at Upstate Correctional Facility and most recently at A Cut Above.

Craig is reunited in Heaven with many loved ones, including his grandparents, Ronald and Mabel Liscum, Donald Wyman and his uncle Duane “Bug” June. We are confident he was welcomed by their loving arms and quite possibly one of Ronnie’s Milwaukee’s Best Ice.

He is survived by his daughter, Alexxa Rose, his pride and joy; his parents, Rick and Tammy Liscum; his wife, Heidi Scott; his sister, Meghan Liscum (Kevin Murdie); his niece and nephew Kendra and Kolt Murdie; his grandmother, Sandra Wyman; his aunts, Karen (David) Drake and Betty (James) Cole; his uncle, Stephen (Anna) June; and his cousins, Macaula Drake, Alainna (Theodore) Walters, Brittany (Andrew) Beck, and Levi (Malarie) Cole; and many beloved family members and friends.

Craig had a heart of gold and a deep love for his family. He had the ability to make anyone laugh. A recent Fantasy Football league champion and a die-hard Philadelphia Eagles fan, Craig also took pride in his impressive collection of football cards. He was known for always wearing shorts, no matter the season. He cherished shopping trips with his daughter Alexxa, attending concerts with his nephew Kolt, playing video games, and never passed up the chance to stop at McDonald’s. More importantly, Craig never passed up the chance to spend time with family, and even in his untimely death, he brought his family together.

In honor and in memory of Craig’s love and devotion to his daughter, donations can be made to a savings account for Alexxa. His legacy will live on through his daughter and his selfless donation of his organs, for which a recipient has already benefited from the gift of his heart.

A GoFundMe account has been established to assist with funeral expenses, gofund.me/a0d118a25.

No public services will be held at this time. A celebration of life is planned for Spring 2026, details to follow.

George Rollo “Joe” Gates

George Rollo Gates, who preferred to be called Joe, was born Tuesday, December 21, 1937, to Arba and Alice (Rowe) Gates in Proctorsville, Vermont. He passed away peacefully on January 30, 2026, in Sierra Vista, Arizona.

Joe served a short stint in the U.S. Air Force after high school and married his sweetheart, Gertrude E. McKinney of Natural Dam, NY, on May 17, 1958. Their adventure began quickly with the birth of their first child, Peggy Sue, a year later, followed by their second child, Stewart Howard, in 1961. With their family complete, the couple settled into family life.

“Settled,” however, never truly described Joe. He loved racing anything he could get his hands on or build—cars, speedboats, go‑karts, kayaks, and canoes. His best days were spent with a fly rod in the river or deep in the woods hunting whatever was in season. Later in life, his passion for fishing and tying flies continued, but he traded his gun for a camera, preferring to watch instead of hunt. No longer hiding from game wardens, he instead partnered with them to teach disabled children to fish.

Joe spent many years as a driller in the underground zinc and lead mines of St. Joe Minerals in Balmat, NY, before moving across the country to mine coal and uranium, and then across the world to open‑pit mines for copper, gold, and silver. While in Indonesia, he specialized in mine rescue, which involved rappelling off cliffs, out of helicopters, and even up and down glaciers to save people who found themselves in dangerous situations. Throughout his career, he fought for safety and just treatment for his fellow workers.

A storyteller extraordinaire, Joe was true to his Irish, Scottish, and Welsh ancestry. His innate sense of right and wrong made him a relentless defender of those in need of a voice.

His adventures finally came to an end in Sierra Vista, AZ, a quiet and peaceful passing while his son and wife stood watch over him.

He is survived by his wife, Gertrude; his daughter Peggy Sue (Gary Morgan); his son Stewart (Terri Wood); six grandchildren—Claire, Nathan, Nicole, Brian, Molly, and Skyler; and great‑grandchildren Ethan, Marlee, Bailey, Logan, Cody, and Nora Rose.

Mildred M. Cornell

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Mildred (Milly) Burr Cornell of Gouverneur, New York, on January 27, 2026, at the age of 95.

She was born on November 2, 1930, to Maynard and Margaret (Grace) Burr. Milly spent her early years working as an usher at the Gralyn Theater in Gouverneur and as a housekeeper at the Gouverneur Hotel. On February 4, 1951, she married Hollis Cornell, and together they built a life rooted in hard work and devotion, with Milly supporting her husband Holly on the farm and as a dedicated housewife to a farmer and miner. 

Milly was known for being headstrong, independent, and unwavering in her love for her family. She cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, creating memories that will be treasured forever. She is survived by her son, Hollis (Larry) and Sally Cornell, Grandchildren, Tony (Alicia) Cornell and Nikki Cornell, and Great-Grandchildren, Gage Cornell, Reed Cornell, Colt Cornell, Caleb Matice, and Claire Matice. 

Milly was predeceased by her beloved husband, Hollis; parents, Maynard and Margaret; a daughter; Linda, and her siblings; Morris, Margaret, Maynard, and Martha. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her family.

There will be a private service for Milly’s family. Arrangements are entrusted to French Funeral Home, Gouverneur. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

James Lewis

James Lewis (aka Rudy to all his friends) passed away January 9, 2026 at the Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center.

Born September 12, 1957 in Gouverneur, NY to Carl W. and Betty Dailey Lewis, James was a computer technician for Vanderbilt Minerals for over 30 years.

He is survived by his brother, Bruce Lewis, sisters Carolyn Reed and Mary June. Also a son, Michael, and James’ companion, Sharon Fleming.

James is predeceased by the love of his life, Patricia Layboult Lewis, his parents, Carl and Betty Lewis, sister Christine Lewis Moravia, and brothers Joel and Robert.

There will be a celebration of life for James on Saturday, February 7, 2-4 p.m., at McKnikki’s Time Out Lounge for friends and family.

Jean A. Rickett

Jean A. Rickett, age 84, passed away on January 15, 2026 after a long illness, with her family by her side at Gouverneur Hospital.  A funeral service was held on Tuesday January 20, 2026 at 3 PM at Frary Funeral Home, 33 Park Street, Gouverneur with Rev. James Warrington officiating.  Calling hours preceded the service from 1 to 3 PM.  

Jean was born on March 24,1941 and lived in Hannawa Falls, to the late Leon M. and Luella E. (Holden) Way.  She graduated from Massena Central School in 1959. Jean was married to the late Orin (Bub) D. Durham.  On July 15, 2000, she married William Rickett at United Methodist Church, Gouverneur NY.

She is survived by her husband, William Rickett, her children, Randy Way, Madonna (Bruce) Westlake, Jean Sawyer, Daniel (Shannon) Way, Gerald (Fannie) Way, Leon (Daisy) Way, Paul Smith and Donald (JR) (Rachel) Durham and stepson Orin (Bimbo) Durham.   Jean has multiple grandchildren, and several great grandchildren.  She is predeceased by her parents, two sons, William (Billy) J. Durham and Lynden (Lenny) E. Way, six grandsons, Brian J. Trent, Alan Michael Way, Daniel Way II, Kenneth W. Sawyer, Skyler D. Way, Gerald (Bear) F. Way and Elizabeth (Tootie) Durham, granddaughter Nicky White, great-granddaughter Desree White, Emma Way. 

Jean enjoyed spending time with her family. Jean enjoyed her job at the Watertown Daily Times for 30 + years. After retiring, Jean enjoyed family dinners, arts and crafts. Jean lived a remarkable life and loved her family.

Memorial donations in Jean’s memory may be made to St. Judes Cancer Hospital.

Online condolences may be shared with Jeans family at www.frayfuneralhome.com.

Gary Dusharm

Gary W. Dusharm died December 28, 2025, after a 48-year battle with Crohn’s disease and a very short battle with cancer. A visitation for Gary was held from 1-3pm on Friday January 2, 2026 and a memorial service was held at 3:00pm on Saturday January 3, 2026, at Rude’s Funeral Home in Brookings, SD.

Gary was born on July 10, 1949, in Gouverneur, NY, the son of Clyde F. and Beatrice (McIntosh) Dusharm. His father was a Navy combat Veteran in World War II and an underground miner at St. Joe Minerals, Balmat, NY and his mother, a stay-at-home mother of four.

Growing up Gary spent his summers staying with his maternal grandparents on their century old farm near Balmat, NY.  He and his siblings grew up in the small town of Fowler, NY, attending Fowler Elementary School.  Gary started first grade in the newly built Fowler Elementary in 1955 and was able to visit the school with all his siblings on the last day of classes in June 2013 before it closed due to declining enrollment. After graduating from Gouverneur High School, Gary went to work for Stromberg-Carlson installing telephone offices across the country.  Transferring to Brookings in December of 1968, he met Carol Langner and were married in March of 1969. For the next two years they moved 22 times returning to settle down in Brookings to start their family.

Gary then worked for Sokota Seeds from 1970 to 1972. In August 1972, Gary began his 40-year employment with Daktronics. The projects he was most proud of were in 1978-1979, Gary was part of the crew that received a contract to create and assemble scoreboards that were used for the 1980 Winter Olympics, in Lake Placid, NY. While there were many scoreboards shipped to Lake Placid, Gary was part of a team that built and later signed their initials inside the square scoreboard located overhead the ice rink, now known as the Herb Brooks Arena. The scoreboard was used to tally the score in the Miricle on Ice game between USA vs. Soviet Union hockey teams. The board was decommissioned and replaced on February 7, 2017, with pieces of the original board preserved and on display in museums and at Daktronics headquarters. Later, in the mid-80’s, Gary picked up a work order to create a Matside Wrestling scoreboard and was surprised to learn it was for his Alma Mater, Gouverneur High School which was in use for many years.

In the early years, Gary spent weekends riding his motorcycle all over South Dakota. In 1992, he inherited his father’s 1931 Model A Ford which he was most proud to call his own. He enjoyed traveling on every dirt or gravel road he could find, sometimes his journeys would find him hundreds of miles away from home in a single day. Gary loved to build things, he was a woodworker and was a weekend carpenter who designed and created years of improvements to their own home.

Gary was a member of the Ascension Lutheran Church.  He was Assistant Scout Master for Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts Pack 4.  He was a youth leader at First Lutheran Church for ten years.  Later he volunteered repairing wheelchairs for the Hope Haven Wheelchair Ministries, Chairs of Hope in Volga, SD that were sent all over the world to those in need.

Gary is survived by his wife Carol; a daughter Rhonda (Jerry) VanOrman of Gouverneur, NY; sons Jeremy (Katie) Dusharm of Titusville, FL, and Daryl Dusharm of Brookings, SD; grandchildren Jessica Stiles, Ogdensburg, NY; Jennifer (Kevin Smith) Stiles, Macomb, NY; April (Cormick) Burns, Rochester, NY; Archer, and Ruhe Dusharm of Titusville, FL, Lily and Grace Dusharm of Brookings, SD; great grandchildren, Urijah Austin, Ogdensburg, NY, Treyton and Dylan Smith, Macomb, NY; sister Darlene (Gregg) Gonyeau; brother Rodney all of Gouverneur, NY; brother-in-law Ron (Linda) Langner; sister-in-law’s Sharon (Gordie) Bortnem, and Kathy (Mike) McClemans all of Brookings, and many nieces and nephews. Special friends Harry Thompson, and Phil Wagner of Brookings.

Gary is preceded in death by his parents; his in-laws Robert and Lorraine Langner, Brookings; and his brother Wayne Dusharm, Gouverneur, NY.

In lieu of flowers, donation can be made to the Brookings Volunteer Service Bank, who gave Gary many rides over the years to his many appointments or to a charity of one’s choice.

Alaine E. McGill

Alaine E. McGill, age 90, passed away peacefully on December 30, 2025 at Gouverneur Hospital.  A funeral service were held on Wednesday January 7, 2026 at 1:00PM at Frary Funeral Home, Gouverneur with Pastor Martha Helmer officiating. Calling hours were held prior to the service at the funeral home from 11:00AM until 1:00PM, burial followed in Fairview Cemetery in Edwards. 

Alaine was born in Champlain, NY on February 25, 1935 to the late Ralph O. and Doris (Turnbull) Matott. She graduated from Canton High School in 1953. Alaine married Kermit McGill on December 10, 1955 in Richville with Rev. AJ Baffey presiding. She was a nurse at EJ Noble Hospital in Gouverneur, working on the maternity ward for over 50 years.  

She is survived by her children; Ralph (Peggy), Sherry, Kevin (Julie), Teena, and Wesley (Lori); her twin sister, Elaine Terry; five grandchildren, Amy Jo (John) Bennett, Cassie (Isaac) Legendre, Katie (Bill) Whitney, Sarah (James) Russell, and Kennedy Hayden-McGill; six great grandchildren, Mya and Charlee Bennett, Nathan and Kamden Legendre, Hunter and Noah Antwine; and one great grandchild, Elizabeth Antwine. She is predeceased by her husband, Kermit; her siblings; Burton, Clinton, Owen, Leland, Lloyd, Joyce, Thelma, and Wilma.  

Alaine enjoyed spending time with her family, doing crossword puzzles, and watching the birds during the warm weather months. 

The family would like to give a heartfelt thank you to the doctors and nurses that kept her comfortable during her final days, we can never thank you enough!

Memorial donations in Alaine's memory may be made to The Friends for Pound Paws Animal Shelter, 55 Owl Rd., Gouverneur, NY 13642. 

Online condolences may be shared with Alaine's family at www.fraryfuneralhome.com.

Ric Noble

Richard “Ric” Earl Noble, age 77, of Gouverneur, beloved father, grandfather, witty joke teller, and lifelong overachiever in every hobby he undertook, passed away on December 23, 2025 at home under the care of his loving family and hospice. He fought off cancer to the bitter end, proving once and for all that even the most stubborn among us eventually rest.

Born in Gouverneur on November 13, 1948, to the late Claude and Helena Ruth (Mashaw) Noble. He graduated from Gouverneur High School and had been a gunsmith for Ithaca Guns before working as a miner for St. Joe Minerals Corporation for 20 years.

Ric lived a life fueled by curiosity, determination, and an uncanny ability to fix anything without reading instructions. With his sharp wit and creative problem solving skills, “we’ll figure it out” was a perfectly acceptable plan.

Ric had an endless arsenal of jokes and had a joke for nearly every occasion, whether appropriate or not. If you were within earshot, chances were good you were about to hear a punchline. His sense of humor was one of his greatest gifts.

Remarkably, Ric also seemed to excel at everything he decided to try from pool and bowling in his younger years to horseshoes and pickleball, winning many championships and trophies. Whether by skill, focus or sheer refusal to lose, he made it look easy. His competitive spirit was always paired well with laughter and good fun and he acquired many friends over the years. Even at 76 years old, he would play pickleball for hours, sharing his skills with others, and then come home and walk for several miles through the woods. He had a lifelong love for the outdoors including camping, hiking, geocaching and hunting.

Beyond his humor and competitive streak, Ric gave his time generously, volunteering to help those in need. He believed in showing up for others, helping where he could, and doing good quietly-though he probably still managed to crack a joke while doing it.

Above all else, Ric loved his family. He was deeply proud of his children and thoroughly enjoyed his grandchildren, who quickly learned that Papa always had a joke ready and time to play with them (and always came with snacks).

He is survived by 4 children, Wendy Borrun (Len Desrochers), Danny Noble, Ricky Noble (Bleu Bermudez), and Kylee Noble (Michael Corso); and siblings, Barb Abrantes, Penny Simmons and Vickie Thayer (John Cochrane); and Ed Noble (Laura Scott). He is also survived by 11 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

Ric was predeceased by his parents, his son, Derek Noble, and his brother, Terry Noble.

His family will miss his humor, his stories, his clever ideas, and his steady presence and reliability. While the jokes may have ended, the laughter he brought into our lives will carry us through. In his honor, tell a joke (even if it’s corny), take a walk through the woods, play a game like you mean it, and never let anyone win too easily.

Donations in memory of Ric may be made to Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley.

There is no service at this time. A memorial will be announced in the spring. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home in Gouverneur. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Stanley Stuart Bacon

Stanley Stuart Bacon passed away on November 8, 2025 in the care of Hudson Valley Hospice House in Hyde Park, NY.

Stanley was 69 years old, the son of Stanley S. Bacon (deceased) and Elizabeth McEathron Bacon (Glachman). He is survived by his mother Elizabeth Glachman, three sisters Diane Troutt (Carlton), Deborah Sample, Sherry Bacon, longtime companion Dolores Russo, two sons Stuart Bacon and Corey Bacon; and Richard and Nicholas Russo, sones of Dolores Russo, 5 nieces and nephews and 10 grandchildren.

Stanley attended Gouverneur Central Schools until 1973 when he decided to live with his mother and stepfather. He graduated from Arlington Central School and was part of the wrestling team.

Stanley (we called him Stu) was very family-oriented and spent a lot of time with his sons and grandchildren. He enjoyed working at the family tree farm on his time off from work. Stu also loved to travel and spent a number of summers in Maine and more recently spent winters in Florida with Dolores. His most memorable trip was a cruise to Alaska and a visit at the end with his Aunt Lee in Washington State.

Services were previously help at Burnett & White Funeral Homes in Red Hook, NY.

Donations can be made in his memory to the Hudson Valley Hospice House in Hyde Park, NY where he spent his final days under their care. To sign the online guestbook or share a memory please visit www.burnett-white.com.

Hilton R. LaBow

Hilton R. LaBow, age 101, passed away on Friday, December 12, 2025 at Gouverneur Hospital with family members at his side.

Hilton was born on July 9, 1924 in Hailesboro, NY to the late Roy E. and Gladys (Hill) LaBow. He attended Hailesboro school and graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1943. He entered the United States Army on June 24, 1943 and reported for active duty at Camp Upton, NY. After completing boot camp training, he was sent to school to be an Army medic. He immediately realized that he did not want to be a medic, so he volunteered to join a first of its kind Army unit of Mountain Ski Troopers. He served under the Army’s 10th Mountain Division’s Company E, 2nd Battalion, 85th Regiment and was trained in Camp Hale, Colorado. Hilton fought in Italy until he was shot in battle and spent many months in various hospitals located in both Italy and in the United States. He was honorably discharged from the Army on November 23, 1945, receiving the Purple Heart, Good Conduct Medal, American Campaign Medal, WWII Victory Medal, European Campaign Medal and the Bronze Star Medal.

A marriage to Anita Mae Papineau ended in divorce. He later married Dorthea E. Luther on July 6, 1974. In 1979, Hilton and his wife and youngest son moved to Montana, where he lived until Dorthea passed in June of 2020. Shortly after her passing, he returned to Upstate NY to be with family.

Hilton worked for St. Joe Minerals in Balmat, NY and for Thomas, Dean and Hoskins Engineering in Great Falls, Montana until he retired. He was a member of the Gouverneur VFW and was a Boy Scout Leader and Explorer Scout Leader for many years, teaching young men of the community the survival and love of the outdoors. He was a member of the Disabled Veteran Association, a member of the 10th Mountain Divisions Big Sky Chapter and was a strong supporter of the NRA. In his free time, he loved playing his guitar, feeding the birds and the deer, and spending quality time with family and friends from across the country. He was very honored to have served his country and felt proud to have the 10th Mountain Division’s main headquarters located 25 miles from his birthplace.

Surviving is a daughter and her husband, Linda and Eric Wagner; a daughter, Linda Fraser Seibel; a son and his wife, Joseph and Barbara LaBow; two daughters-in-laws, Sue and Connie LaBow; 18 grandchildren, and 41 great grandchildren and 7 great-great grandchildren.

Hilton is predeceased by his parents, his wife, Dorthea; two sons, Richard and George LaBow; a daughter, Aretta (Fraser) Freed; two brothers, Jean and Ray LaBow; a sister, Helen Kennedy and a granddaughter Jeri (LaBow) Love.

Hilton loved his family and friends dearly and left a positive impression on anyone that he crossed paths with. He’s a hero and will be missed.

There will be no services for Hilton at this time. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Arrangements are entrusted to French Funeral Home, Gouverneur. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Betty M. Hadfield

Betty M. Hadfield, age 77, of Fullerville, NY passed away on Wednesday, November 26, 2025 at Massena Memorial Hospital with her family by her side.

In keeping with Betty’s wishes, there will be no services. Arrangements are entrusted to French Funeral Home, Edwards. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Betty was born on December 31, 1947 in Gouverneur, NY to the late Owen and Iva (Patchin) Tyler. She graduated from Gouverneur Central School and then went to Nursing School at St. Lawrence BOCES.

On October 17, 1964, she married John W. Hadfield, Jr. at the Gouverneur United Methodist Church. John passed away on October 1, 2025. Betty worked as a ward clerk in Arizona, before moving back to New York where she was a nurse aid at Clifton-Fine Hospital in Star Lake. In her free time, Betty enjoyed sewing, crocheting, knitting, reading and doing puzzle books. She was a member of the Fowler Baptist Church.

Surviving is her four children, Kenneth and Melissa Hadfield of Russell, John Hadfield III of Fullerville, Sandra and Frank Bango of Harrisville and Elizabeth “Liz” and Joe Johnson of Utah; and six grandchildren, ten great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Betty is predeceased by her husband, John; her parents; three brothers, Frank, Leon and Owen Tyler and nine sisters, Maria Klock, Mary Jane Solon, Marlene Hadfield, Marletha “Candy” Jones, Marjorie Crowner, Minabell Bressett, Carol Crowner, Barbara Tyler and Cecilia Tyler.

John R. Shaw

John R. “Jack” Shaw, age 84 of Antwerp, NY passed away on November 12, 2025 at Sunset Nursing Home in Boonville.

Calling hours will be held at French Funeral Home in Gouverneur on Friday, November 21, 2025 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. His funeral service will be held on Saturday, November 22, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements are entrusted to French Funeral Home, Gouverneur. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Jack was born on October 31, 1941 in Rossie, NY to the late Charles S. and Lola M. (Storie) Shaw. He started out attending a one room schoolhouse in Brasie Corners and then went to Antwerp Elementary before graduating from Indian River School in 1959. He then went on to graduate from Canton ATC in Electrical Engineering, receiving his Associate Degree. On August 25, 1962, he married Leona M. “Toots” Kirkby at the Antwerp First Congregational Church.

Jack and Leona “Toots” owned and operated Stone Wood Farm for many years. After they sold the cattle in 2000, he became a salesman for Archway and then Little Debbie. Jack had learned to fly a plane and enjoyed flying for many years. He was a Town Councilman for 3 years and also Town Supervisor for the Town of Antwerp for 22 years.

Surviving is his wife, Leona “Toots” Shaw; three daughters, Lori (Claude “Spence” Ritchie, Lisa (John) Maloy and Penni Shaw-Pierce; two sons, Andrew (Brooke) Shaw and Richard Shaw; a sister, Cynda (John) McKeever; eleven grandchildren, John (Alyssa) Shaw, Kara (Ben) Rockwood, Laura, Spencer and Jackson Ritchie, Charlie and Connor Shaw, Andrew and Christopher Pierce, and Adam and Leah Shaw, and four great grandchildren.

Jack is predeceased by a brother, Robert Shaw.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Jack may be made to the Indian River Ambulance Service.

Marshall Truman Martin

Marshall Truman Martin, 90, of Ithaca, NY, died November 15, 2025.

Born August 11, 1935, in Ithaca, NY to William (Bill) Martin, of Canada and Rose Hall of Syracuse; Marshall is the youngest of eight; his siblings who all preceded Marshall included Jack, Lorenzo, Wallace, Corea, Rod, Winfred, and Larry. Marshall worked in Ithaca as a small engine mechanic for thirteen years at the Valley Fix-It Shop then bought a farm in Gouverneur, NY were he retired; he was an avid outdoorsman and had a passion for gardening; Marshall married and was preceded in death by his wife of 46 years, Barbara Knight, 65, in 2003; Together they raised 5 children; Mark, Angela, Robert, Michael, and Christine.

Marshall is survived by his son, Robert; daughter, Christine; 8 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held from 4:00-6:00PM on Thursday, November 20th at Bangs Funeral Home, 209 W. Green St., Ithaca, NY 14850. Graveside services will be held in the spring of 2026 in St. Patrick's Cemetery, Rossie, NY. Online condolences at www.bangsfuneralhome.com

Daniel Zira

Daniel S. Zira, age 64, of Hermon NY passed away peacefully on November 11, 2025 at Rochester General Hospital after losing his battle to cancer.

There will be a Celebration of Life held at a later date to be announced. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home in Gouverneur; condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Daniel (also known on the high road by his CB Handle, “Zoro”) was born on August 3, 1961 in Vernon CT to the late Ray J. and Patricia Diane (Sweeney) Zira. He attended St. James Catholic School and graduated from Gouverneur Central School in 1980. He also studied Auto Body repair at BOCES which kickstarted his hobby of tinkering and mechanics. Dan was notorious for adding a fuel shut off to all of his toys.

Dan married Cherie J. McRobbie on May 30, 1981 at St. Henry’s Catholic Church in DeKalb. He worked as a tractor trailer driver for various companies; mostly as an over the road trucker and then locally beginning in 2009. Dan was a jokester who loved his family. He had a passion for his game room, rock and roll music, classic cars and riding his motorcycle. Dan was always wheeling and dealing, and looking for the next trade.

Dan is survived by his wife, Cherie, and their children: Matthew Zira and his significant other, Stephanie Fleury, Mallory Zira and her fiancé, Keyon Hall. He is also survived by his brother, Kennedy Zira and wife, Tracy; three grandchildren, Thomas, Kendall, and Kimber; sister-in-law, Lorinda Zira, as well as in-laws: Cathy and Gerald Hendrick, Caryn and John Coffey, Donald and Cheryl McRobbie, and David McRobbie; his uncle and aunt, Eddie and Barbara Powers; also, several nieces and nephews.

He is predeceased by his parents, brothers, Michael Zira and Ray Zira Jr., a sister, Michelle Zira, who died in infancy, and a brother-in-law, Michael McRobbie.

Joanne E. LaRue

Joanne E. LaRue, age 84, of Gouverneur, NY passed away on Sunday, November 9, 2025 at Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse.

There will be calling hours for Joanne on Thursday, November 20 from 10:00-11:30 a.m. at French Funeral Home, Gouverneur. A mass will immediately follow at 12:00 p.m. at St. James Church with Fr. Jay Seymour officiating. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Joanne was born on January 26, 1941 in Massena, NY to the late Howard and Catherine (Cardinel) LaRue. She graduated from the Massena Catholic School and then went on to LeMoyne College where she received her Business Degree. Joanne continued her education at SUNY Potsdam, receiving her Teaching Degree.

Joanne worked as an elementary teacher for Carthage Central School until her retirement in the early 1990’s. In her free time, Joanne was often at the St. James Parish, volunteering for their Out Reach Center. She was a very kind and gentle soul, who loved helping out others and visiting with people of her community. She loved all animals, and she enjoyed reading, shopping and playing bingo. Joanne’s greatest pride and joy were her grandchildren.

Surviving are her two daughters, Michele and Gerald Johnson and Karen Geer; a sister, Catherine Kramer; six grandchildren, Robert, Matthew and Christopher Johnson, Sarah (Shuofei) Sun, Dylan Geer and Emily Geer and a great granddaughter, Junpei Sun. Joanne is predeceased by two brothers, John and Edward LaRue.

Donations may be made in Joanne’s memory to the Gouverneur Volunteer Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 164, Gouverneur, NY 13642.

Eleanor Rose

Eleanor Joyce Rose, formerly Bishop, passed away on November 6, 2025, at the age of 89 in Las Vegas, NV. Born on July 11, 1936, in Gouverneur, NY, Eleanor was dearly loved by those who knew her and she will be deeply missed.
Eleanor is survived by her sister, Vivian Beyea; her children, Donald, Elaine, Carol, Sheila, Diana, and Trina; and a cherished lineage that includes many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, along with a great nephew, CT. She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Hilda Bishop; her former husband, Donald Rose; nieces Crystal and Laurie; a son John, and granddaughter Brandy.
Memorial services in Gouverneur and Las Vegas are pending.

John Mossing

John Cullen Mossing of Warminster, PA and formerly of Pillar Point, NY and Gouverneur, NY, passed peacefully at his home on November 2. John was born on April 9, 1942, to Matilda Cheney Mossing in Toledo, OH. He was the youngest of six children. His three sisters and two brothers preceded him in death.

John graduated from Swanton High School where he was an accomplished athlete in basketball and track and field. He earned a degree from Ohio Northern University where he ran track and pole vaulted.

John spent 70 years with his high school sweetheart, Nancy Mossing (Kline). The couple married on August 8, 1964. Nancy survives at home in Warminster, PA. Also surviving are John and Nancy’s three children, who thought of their dad as a hero: Kristen Bauter (Stacy) of Pillar Point, NY; Ann Mossing (Shawn) of Doylestown, PA; and John “JC” Mossing (Jessica) of Queensbury, NY.

Grandchildren Lee Bauter (Molly), Nancy Lindsey (Alan), Anna Bauter, Reb Russell III, William Russell, Elizabeth Russell, Lauren Mossing, Ella Mossing, and Jack Mossing lovingly referred to their grandfather as “Minkin.” John and Nancy were further blessed with two great-grandchildren, Alan “Trey” Lindsey and Maureen McGuane Bauter.

John touched over 10,000 lives as a teacher and coach for 37 years, retiring from Gouverneur Central School District (NY) in 2001. He taught Physical Education (K-12) and Health, and served as a coach for basketball, football, and track and field. John was inducted into the Gouverneur High School Athletics Hall of Fame, and served as Treasurer of the Gouverneur Schools Federal Credit Union. He was an avid sports fan who enjoyed watching the Yankees, Giants, Syracuse University, and Ohio State.

More important than his list of accomplishments is the impact John had on others. His students and colleagues at West Side Elementary may remember the birthday posters he made for each of them, his trivia questions of the day, or the music he played over the P.A. system each morning to set the mood for the day. John was a good neighbor and friend to all while living in Gouverneur, NY. He came up with the idea for a New Year’s morning champagne brunch and hosted over one hundred people each year at the family home on Gleason Street. When he moved to Pillar Point, NY, John created a community birthday sign to celebrate his neighbors, which was featured on the local news.

Nancy will treasure 20 years of retirement adventures with John to their favorite places: Sanibel Island, FL; Fountain Hills, AZ; Gulf Shores, AL; Tybee Island, GA; Outer Banks, NC; Topsail Island, NC; and Ocean City, MD. John’s family will smile when they think of his humor and love of life. His friends will miss the daily sharing of Wordle scores. His children will remember fondly his commitment to taking them each on a two-week adventure and the taste of his homemade maple syrup and cookies.

John Mossing was a loving husband, a devoted family man, a valued coworker, a treasured friend, a trusted advisor, and a fierce believer in the abilities of his children, grandchildren, students, and all people. He possessed the unique ability to enrich the lives of others by turning everyday events into fun and adventure.

A private remembrance and celebration of John’s life will be held at the convenience of the family. Donations in his memory can be made to Gouverneur Foundation, P.O. Box 306, Gouverneur, NY 13642. Please write “John Mossing” on the memo line. Donations will fund scholarships for Gouverneur High School students, and can also be made online at https://gouverneurfoundation.com/give/. Select “The John Mossing Scholarship.”