David B. Robillard

David B. Robillard, age 99 ¾, passed away on April 10, 2025 at Gouverneur Hospital.

David was born on June 14, 1925 at home to the late David H. and Dorothy (Barber) Robillard. He graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1942. He married Georgia M. Davis on March 1, 1947 at the Gouverneur Methodist Church. Georgia passed away on May 4, 1991.

David worked throughout New York State until 1990 when he retired. Throughout his career he worked for Benson Mines, St. Joseph Mines, Gouverneur Paper Mill, and Nesco’s. He was a member of the International Union of Operating Engineers #158 (District 545) for 77 years. His years with IUOE included the building of Interstate 81, 481, 88, and 390. He also was involved in the construction of the St. Lawrence Seaway. In 1963 he moved to Fisher’s Landing, NY where he was a partner in Reed’s Marina. He was a member of the APBA C-Hydro Class Boat Racing Team. He won at the C-Hydro Nationals in Canada in the early 1960’s. He won many races in the 36 runabouts and ran in the Thousand Island Marathon. This was a huge part of his life for which he loved. In 1970 he returned to the family homestead in Gouverneur. He built the Sugar House and started producing Maple Syrup with his family. In 1978 to present he and his wife established Plant City. David was a self-taught mechanic and a “jack of all trades” who could fix anything. He had a great love for his family and the family homestead.

He is survived by his 6 children, Norma R. Hill of Fayetteville, NY, David G. Robillard (Yvonne) of Benbrook, TX, Wayne Robillard of Edwards, Donna Gonyo (Jack) of Mooers, NY, Gail O’Hearn of Gouverneur, NY, and Amy Robillard (Jeff Calhoun) of Hendersonville, NC. 10 grandchildren, Christopher (Kristy), Kelly (Mike), Shawn (Carrie), Michael (Tanya), Matthew (Keegan), Marcus (Kassandra), Jacque, Samantha, Christin, and Courtney (Brent). 12 great-grandchildren, Sierra (William), Olivia, Corey, Ayden, Delilah, Arbor, Korbin, Ayla, Maddox, Beckham, Ryliegh, and Landon. Nieces, Margaret and Nancy. He is also survived by his beloved cat, PC.

David is predeceased by his parents, David and Dorothy Robillard, his sister, Martha Robillard, his step-sister, Loretta Robillard Goligher, and a great-grandson, Wesley.

A special thank you to Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley. A heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to his homecare support team, Rachel, Jim, and Shelby.

There will be a Celebration of Life held at the family home, 965 US Hwy 11, Gouverneur on his 100th birthday, June 14, 2025. Details to be announced. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home in Gouverneur. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Donations in memory of David may be made to Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley, PO Box 510, Potsdam NY 13676 or Friends 4 Pound Paws, 55 Owl Road, Gouverneur NY 13642.

Robert Earl Dier

Robert Earl Dier, age 85, passed away on April 9, 2025, at Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse with his loving family at his side. Calling hours were held on Monday April 14, 2025 from 4PM to 7PM at Frary Funeral Home, 33 Park Street, Gouverneur. A funeral service was held on Tuesday April 15, 2025, at 12PM at the funeral home with Rev. Alan Kinney officiating, and burial with Military Honors following in East Riverside Cemetery.

Robert (Bob) was born on March 8, 1940, the son of the late Earl and Katherine (Earl) Dier. Bob graduated from Gouverneur High School. After high school Bob joined the US Navy, proudly serving his country aboard the USS Current. While in port and on his only day off, Bob married the love of his life, Carol Ann Lynde, on December 26, 1961 in Hawaii. After being Honorably discharged from the Navy, Bob worked many years at the Gouverneur A & P, becoming the store manager. He then worked for his brother-in-law William Scozzafava at Gouverneur Auto Parts, before going to work for Kinney Drugs of Gouverneur, from which he retired as a maintenance and construction supervisor.

Bob is survived by his loving wife of 63 years Carol, two daughters Michelle (Dale) Woodard, and Marcia (Scott) Cleveland of Gouverneur, two grandsons Jacob (Amanda) and Zachary (Joanna) Woodard, two great grandsons Dawson and Zeke Woodard, and two great granddaughters Leyah and Zoe Woodard. Bob is predeceased by his sister Marilyn Scozzafava and his brother-in-law William (Bill) Scozzafava.

Bob was known to be a jack of all trades; he could fix anything and enjoyed sharing his knowledge with others along with a story or two. In his younger years he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and snowmobiling with his friends, and playing cards later in life. Bob also enjoyed traveling with Carol, attending USS Current reunions for many years, and with his daughters, especially to the island of St. Maarten most every year for the last 30 years. Most of all, Bob just loved spending time with his family.

Bob served the local community for many years as a Fireman, and Fire Chief of the Gouverneur Fire Department, and later becoming a member of the Gouverneur Exempt Fireman’s Association. Bob was also a member of the Gouverneur Elks Club and the Gouverneur American Legion. One of Bob’s proudest moments was when he was inducted into the Gouverneur High School Wall of Fame for his contributions to Gouverneur Football, Basketball, and as a Freshman, he set the Section X record in the 100 Meter Hurdles.

Memorial donations in Bob’s memory may be made to the Gouverneur Fire Department. Online memorial condolences may be shared with Bob’s family at www.fraryfuneralhome.com.

Ronald Tuttle, Sr.

Ronald L. Tuttle, Sr., age 85, of Natural Dam, passed away on April 12, 2025 at his daughter’s home under the care of his family and hospice.

Calling hours will be held at French Funeral Home in Gouverneur on Monday, April 21, 2025 from 11:00 – 2:00 p.m. with his funeral service following at 2:00 p.m. Burial will follow in the Pleasant Lake Cemetery. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Ronald was born on October 27, 1939 in Gouverneur to the late Benjamin W. and Doris M. (Gray) Tuttle. He graduated from Gouverneur Central School in 1957, where he was an excellent wrestler, having been the 1957 Section III-X Champion in the 154 lb. class. He married Joan E. Parker on July 20, 1957 at the Gouverneur United Methodist Church. Joan passed away on May 6, 2021.

Ron worked for the St. Lawrence County Highway Department in 1957 and from there worked at Simons Fuel and Supply from 1958 – 1963, J.E. McAllaster’s Oil Company from 1963 – 1977, and The Augsbury Corporation from 1977 – 1982. At the closure of Augsbury he opened and ran his own business of T&H Heating and Plumbing from 1982 – 1989. In 1989 he became employed by Fort Drum as a Service Technician and remained there until his retirement in October of 2001.

Ron was a member of the Gouverneur Elks Lodge for 42 years. He was an avid, but unlucky hunter, enjoyed fishing, camping, bowling, and making donuts from Joan’s recipe. He also enjoyed going to the casino where he also didn’t have the luck, but escorted Joan there for her wins. Ron and Joan took many motorcycle trips, spent many good times at Pleasant Lake, and enjoyed trips to Florida. He was always there for his family and made a great wing man on his travels.

He is survived by three children, Ronald (Barbara) Tuttle, Jr., Deborah “Debbie” Woods (Judd Reed), and Rusty (Heather) Tuttle, his sister, Sharon Parker, and brothers, Robert and James Tuttle. He is also survived by 11 grandchildren, Ryan, Marcus, Chad, Cody, Levi, Lauren, Alysa, Michael, Alana, Noah, and Conner, 13 great-grandchildren, Kailyn, Karlie, Oaklynn, Gracen, Skylar, Tatum, Blakely, Boone, Naomi, Lydia, Piper, Rory and Sawyer, and many nieces and nephews.

Ron is predeceased by his parents, his wife, Joan, a son, Dale Alan Tuttle, and a brother, Benjamin Tuttle.

Donations in memory of Ron may be made to the Gouverneur Breast and Ovarian Cancer Fund, PO Box 64, Gouverneur NY 13642, Ryan’s Wish Foundation, PO Box 326, Gouverneur NY 13642, or Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley, PO Box 510, Potsdam NY 13676.

Sandra V. Ritchie

Sandra V. Ritchie, age 84, of Gouverneur, NY passed away on Tuesday, April 15, 2025 at Gouverneur Hospital.

Sandra was born on June 24, 1940 to the late Robert W. and Ella Mae (Hebert) Blair. She graduated from Gouverneur Central School in 1958. A marriage to Larry Langtry ended in divorce. She married Donald S. Ritchie on April 15, 1967. Donald passed away on June 18, 2012.

Sandra loved fishing, hunting and traveling. She was a true socialite. Donald and Sandra had a camp on Cook’s Pond on the Tooley Pond Road in Windfall, where they hunted and spent summers and much of their time. Later, after Donald retired, they spent winters traveling in their motor home traveling south, southwest and to Mexico before wintering in Texas and Florida. Sandra wintered in New Smyrna Beach, Florida until Hurricane Ian in 2022.

Surviving is her daughter, Linda Lou and Rick Strate; grandchildren, Jennifer (Kevin) Fishel, Marion (Jay) Bowhall and Austin Strate; five great grandchildren; and step children, Thomas Ritchie and Trudy Ritchie and their families.

In keeping with Sandra’s wishes, there will be no calling hours. Burial will be private at Cranberry Lake Cemetery at a later date. There will be a celebration of life on Saturday, April 26, 2025 from 12:30-4:00 p.m. at the Casablanca Restaurant. Arrangements are entrusted to French Funeral Home, Gouverneur. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Dolores Ann Story

A memorial service for Dolores Ann Story, 87, of Gouverneur will be held on Saturday, April 12, 2025 at 12 pm at Frary Funeral Home, 33 Park St. Gouverneur. A visitation will be held from 11 am until the time of the service. Burial will follow in the East Riverside Cemetery. Mrs. Story died on Sunday, April 6th, 2025 at Gouverneur Hospital.

Arrangements are under the direction of Frary Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Gouverneur.

Dolores Ann Story was born on January 5, 1938 in Gouverneur, NY. She was the daughter of the late Wilhelmina Cunningham. She attended Gouverneur High School. She worked for Hull’s Grocery Store in Westmoreland, NY and the Elgin Diner in Kirkland, NY before moving back to Gouverneur where she worked at the Log Cabin Diner. She married Peter Story on September 10, 1960 at Trinity Episcopal Church in Gouverneur. Peter died on July 13, 1996. She enjoyed playing Bingo, Soap Operas, spending time with her grandchildren and the company of her pets.

She is survived by two daughters, Kelly Jenne and her husband Dean of Fowler and Sue Morrison and her husband Randy of Gouverneur. She is survived by six grandchildren; Alisa, Christopher and Gregory Jenne and Brock Morrison and his wife Sylvie, Dylan Morrison and Cassidy Morrison. She also leaves behind to cherish her memory four great-great grandchildren; Ava, Hudson and Monroe Jenne and Carter Morrison. Two sisters; Mrs. Richard (Diann) Ferraiola of Utica, NY and Joann Ross of Rome, NY. and two half-sisters, Brenda Simmons and Judy Wood also survive her along with her cat “Sparky”, who she raised from one week old.

One granddaughter Courtni Ann Morrison and her brother; Jeffrey Sayers predeceased her.

Donations in Dolores memory may be made to the Friends 4 Pound Paws P.O. Box 394 Gouverneur, NY 13642.

Online Condolences may be made at www.FraryFuneralHome.com

Richard A. Rushlo

Richard A. Rushlo, age 87, of Edwards, NY passed away on Friday, April 4, 2025 at the Legacy K Adult Home in Hermon, NY.

There were calling hours for Richard on Monday, April 7, 2025 from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. at French Funeral Home in Edwards. His funeral service was on Tuesday, April 8, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at the Edwards Methodist Church. A burial followed at Fairview Cemetery in Edwards. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Richard was born on August 26, 1937 in Edwards, NY to the late Bradford and Hazel (Weir) Rushlo. He attended the Bradford District School and then graduated from Edwards Central.

Richard married Doris E. Given on January 12, 1957. Doris passed away on October 17, 2022. Richard had worked for the Town of Edwards as a truck driver; for Niagara Mohawk and was sheriff deputy of the Sampson Pond Hunting Club before working at Newton Falls Paper Mill as a forklift operator. He was a member of the Rock Mountain Elk Federation. Richard enjoyed hunting, woodworking and spending time with his family.

Surviving is two sons, Michael and Marc and his wife Jan; a daughter, Michele Robillard; a sister, Veronica Putman; seven grandchildren, seven great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Richard is predeceased by his wife, his parents, two daughters, Gisele Reynolds and Gina L. Rushlo, who died in a tragic car accident, and a sister, Rosalie Smith.

Donations may be made in Richard’s memory to the Gina Lynn Rushlo Memorial Scholarship, Northern NY Community Foundation, 131 Washington St., Watertown, NY 13601.

Sheila Van Norton

Sheila Marie Van Norton, age 66, of Gouverneur, passed away on March 27, 2025.

Arrangements are incomplete with French Funeral Home in Gouverneur. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Sheila was born on March 21, 1959 in Gouverneur to Belva (Parker) Church and the late William Church. She attended the Edwards Knox High School and married Thomas Van Norton on December 24, 1974 at the Gouverneur Presbyterian Church.

Sheila worked in the photographic business, developing pictures on an industrial scale for District Photo in Maryland before working for Fuji on Long Island.

Sheila is survived by her mother, Belva Church, daughter, Amber Lynn Van Norton, granddaughter, Zoe Campbell, and her siblings, William and Lynne Church, Larry Church, David and Janet Church, and Helen and Charlie Cole.

She is predeceased by her father, William Church, and a sister that died at birth.

Thomas Van Norton

Thomas Howard Van Norton, age 68, of Gouverneur, passed away on March 27, 2025.

Arrangements are incomplete with French Funeral Home in Gouverneur. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Tom was born on May 16, 1956 in Gouverneur to the late Howard and Helene “Hon” (Curtis) Van Norton. He graduated from Gouverneur Central School and married Sheila Marie Church on December 24, 1974 at the Gouverneur Presbyterian Church.

Tom served in the United States Army from 1974 until his honorable discharge in 1977.

He had worked as an installer for Solar Science Industries in Beltsville, MD and as a tent setter for HDO Productions in Rockville, MD where he got to set up the tent for the Presidential Premier of Superman 3, meeting Christopher Reeve, Richard Pryor, and George H. Bush. Tom then spent 30 years working for IKEA in Baltimore, Long Island, New Jersey, Utah and retired in New Jersey in 2018.

Tom was an outdoorsman and avid hunter. He loved to read (at least 2 books a week), play golf, and greatly enjoyed the National Parks, especially in Utah. He was actively involved and coached the High School Trap Team, was a member and Secretary of the Gouverneur Rod and Gun Club, and was a member of the Northern Tier Trap League.

Tom is survived by his daughter, Amber Lynn Van Norton, granddaughter, Zoe Campbell, and brothers-in-law, Richard “Dick” Davis and Greg Poche.

He is predeceased by his parents, Howard and Helene “Hon” Van Norton, and his sisters, Judy Davis and Kay Van Norton-Poche.

Marcia Sedgwick Bruce Gazin

Marcia Sedgwick Bruce Gazin, 79, of Gouverneur, New York, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2025 with her family at her side, in Cincinnati, Ohio, after a short illness.

Marcia was born on June 1, 1945 to Henry H. Bruce and Marie Sorgenfrei Bruce in Syracuse, New York. After graduating from Ayr High School in 1962, she went on to study at Cornell University. Active in United Helpers, she served as President of the Society of United Helpers, as well as in the local Shakespeare Club and with the Frederic Remington Art Museum. She especially enjoyed participating in the Real Estate supper club with her North Country friends.

Marcia met her husband, Mark Allen Gazin, in Gouverneur and they married on August 20, 1966 at Trinity Episcopal Church in Gouverneur. She loved her family and enjoyed traveling to new destinations, at home and abroad.

She was predeceased by her husband and her sister, Nancy Leader. She is survived by her sister, Elizabeth Edinger, her son, Eric D. Gazin, and daughter-in-law Ann Gazin, Cincinnati, Ohio, and her grandsons, Jackson Gazin and Eric M. Gazin.

Memorial donations in honor of Marcia are encouraged to Hospice of Cincinnati, 4310 Cooper Road, Cincinnati, OH 45242.

Boyd Foster, Sr.

Boyd Foster, Sr., a loving husband, father, and grandfather passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 25, 2025 at the age of 76. A Funeral Mass will be held April 5, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. John’s Church in Morristown, NY, with Rev. Christopher Carrara officiating. Calling hours will be held Friday, April 4, 2025, at Fox and Murray Funeral Home from 3:00PM – 6:00PM. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Fox & Murray Funeral Home.

Boyd is survived by his wife of 56 years, Patti; his three children, Jackie (Patrick) Kelly, Boyd Jr. (Tracy), and Patrick (David); his five grandchildren, Laken, Reagan, and Gannon Kelly and Boyd III and Edward Foster.  

Boyd was born in Auburn, New York on July 22, 1948 to Dorothy Hayes and Alfred Townsend Foster.  Boyd was one of ten children.  He was predeceased by his mother and father and his siblings, Ralph, Eleanor, Donald, Stewart, Carl, Beverly and Rodger,  Boyd is survived by two brothers and their spouses, Rodney (Marilyn) and Craig (Debbie) as well as many nieces and nephews. 

Boyd was born to work in the oil industry. His parents owned a small gas service station and after a brief time working in finance and insurance, Boyd moved his family to Ogdensburg to take a job with the Augsbury Corporation. He then worked his way up to various positions in the oil business, including being the President of Augsbury, Griffith Energy, All Energy, and ultimately retiring as the Executive Vice President of Wholesale Marketing, Manufacturing, and Transportation for Sunoco.

Boyd enjoyed spending time on the St. Lawrence River, being with his family and dogs, telling stories, and following the accomplishments of his grandchildren.

Boyd fought a courageous and high-spirited battle against cancer for nearly twenty years. Memorial donations can be made to the Abramson Cancer Center at the University of Pennsylvania at Penn Medicine Development, Attn: Thomas White 3535, Market Street, Suite 750, Philadelphia, PA 19104 or at www.pennmedicine.org/cancer/giving.

Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.fox&murrayfuneralhome.com.

Rena C. Griebsch

Rena C. Griebsch, age 95, of Gouverneur, passed away on Wednesday, March 19, 2025 under the loving care of her family and Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley.

Calling hours will be held at French Funeral Home on Sunday, March 23, 2025 from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. Her funeral Mass will be held at St. James Catholic Church on Monday, March 24th at 10:00 a.m. Burial will be at a later date.

Rena was born on April 22, 1929 in Gouverneur to the late Joseph and Clara (DeCastro) Pistolesi. She attended Gouverneur Central School and married Ernest H. Griebsch on October 24, 1954 at St. James Church with Rev. Msr. James Lyng officiating. Mr. Griebsch passed away on November 10, 2015.

Rena began working as a young girl for her father at Pistolesi’s Dry Cleaning in Gouverneur before becoming a waitress at the Clearview Restaurant. Her friendly smile and gift of gab made her a valuable asset there. She retired in 1985.

Rena always put family first in her life. She loved time spent with her family and adored her nieces and nephews. Even people she wasn’t related to would call her “Aunt Rena”. She enjoyed socializing with family and friends and loved Gouverneur, having lived there all of her life. The people in her community cherished her. Rena enjoyed spending time at the cottage on Sylvia Lake and was a member of St. James Church, the Elks Lodge and VFW.

Her survivors include her son, Karl Griebsch of Pompano Beach, Fl; daughters, Marisa Griebsch and her husband, Kurt Wells of Gouverneur and Lenore Heitz and her husband, William of Boynton Beach, FL; grandchildren, Shae and Spencer Heitz and a step granddaughter, Whitnee Miner and her children; and her many beloved nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, husband and infant daughter Martha, Rena is predeceased by her siblings, Mario Pistolesi, Lesa Rotundo, Eda Sleeman, Mary Curcio and Gilda Calvani.

Donations in memory of Rena may be made to St. James Church or the St. James Catholic School, the Gouverneur Volunteer Fire Dept and Gouverneur Volunteer Rescue Squad. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Dorothy Adams

Dorothy A. Adams, age 96, of Oswegatchie, passed away on March 23, 2025 at the Clifton-Fine Hospital surrounded by her family.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. at French Family Funeral Home in Star Lake. Her funeral service will be held on Thursday, April 3, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at the Oswegatchie Baptist Church. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Dorothy was born on July 10, 1928 in Geers Corners to the late Edwin and Florence (Manchester) Cole. She graduated from the Edwards High School in 1946 and married Lewis Donald Adams on December 25, 1948 at the Oswegatchie Baptist parsonage officiated by Rev. Frank Kelly. Lewis passed away on July 31, 1976.

Dorothy was a volunteer at the Clifton-Fine Hospital Residents Nursing Home, a member of the Clifton-Fine Hospital Ladies Auxiliary, the Clifton-Fine Senior Citizens Club, and the Oswegatchie Ladies Birthday Club. She was also a former member of the Oswegatchie Home Bureau and the Star Lake Neighborhood Center Advisory Board. For many years Dorothy held garage sales to benefit the Long-Term Care residents at Clifton-Fine Hospital. She also enjoyed going to her family’s many sporting events and always volunteered to drive and offered to take others to games as well.

Dorothy is survived by four children, Marie Wood, Lewis Adams, Donald Adams, and Lawrence Adams, 5 grandchildren, and 1 great-grandchild.

She is predeceased by her parents, her husband, Lewis, and a grandson, Shannon Adams, who was killed in the World Trade Center Attack on September 11, 2001.

Donations in memory of Dorothy may be made to the Star Lake Fire and Rescue, PO Box 22, Star Lake NY 13690 or the Oswegatchie Baptist Church, PO Box 131, Star Lake NY 13690.

Kristine Turnbull

Kristine A. Turnbull, age 78, of Gouverneur, passed away on March 22, 2025 in Gouverneur.

Arrangements are private with French Funeral Home in Gouverneur. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Kristine was born on December 16, 1946 in Gouverneur to the late Wesley and Agnes (Radigan) Kingsley. She graduated from Gouverneur Central School in 1965 and from CCBI (Central City Business Institute) of Syracuse with a certificate in accounting.

She married Terrance “Terry” K. Turnbull in 1968 at the Gouverneur United Methodist Church with Rev. Stanley Brown officiating. The couple had celebrated 57 years of marriage. Mrs. Turnbull worked as the bookkeeper for International Talc in Fowler and Carbola Mines out of Harrisville.

Kristine enjoyed getting outside and helping maintain the lawn. She also enjoyed traveling, shopping, and the flowers, especially the asters, outside of the house. Most of all, Kristine was proud of the wonderful care her loving husband provided her over the years.

She is survived by her husband, Terry Turnbull, a sister, Karen Barr, a sister-in-law, Carol Turnbull, and her nieces and nephews.

Kristine is predeceased by her parents, brothers, Wesley and David Kingsley, a sister, Nancy Kingsley, sisters-in-law, Judy Laidlaw and Jane Desormeaux and a brother-in-law, Donald Turnbull.

Michael Dusharm

Michael L. (Mike) Dusharm, age 75, of Richville, NY passed away Sunday, March 23, 2025 at the Canton-Potsdam Hospital.

Mike was born on June 15, 1949 to the late Melvin E. and Juanita (Newcomb) Dusharm. He graduated from Gouverneur Central School in 1967. He was employed at Pratt and Whitney in Connecticut, Gouverneur Iron Works and CIVES Steel in Gouverneur from March 22, 1971 until his retirement on July 6, 2015.

In 1969 Mike joined the US Marine Corps, taking basic training at Paris Island, SC. He served in Vietnam and on July 26, 1970 he was wounded in his legs. He was honorably discharged as a corporal and had received a Purple Heart Award.

Previous marriages were to Michelle Serviss and Trudi Thompson. He married Janet (Knox) Dusharm on July 2, 2005.

He is survived by three daughters, Trina Dusharm Kuzia, Dodie Killock, and Christie (Dave) Schroer, his step-children, Laura Fuller (D.J. Moore), Edward Dusharm, Lorraine (Billy) Dusharm-Trojnor, and Shawn Thompson, and siblings, Bonnie Dwyer, Janet Gotham, and Charles (Ruth) Dusharm. He is also survived by his many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Mike is predeceased by his parents, Melvin and Juanita Dusharm, his daughter, Angie, his son, Terry, brother, Gregory, and brothers-in-law, Joseph Dwyer and Richard Gotham.

Mike was a member of the Gouverneur VFW and Gouverneur American Legion. He was an avid bowler and on the nice days you would find him at Emerald Green Golf Club.

There will be calling hours for Mike on Thursday, March 27, 2025 from 11:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m. at French Funeral Home, Gouverneur. His funeral service will immediately follow on Thursday at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow with military honors at Fairview Cemetery in Edwards. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Donations in memory of Mike may be made to the Gouverneur Rescue Squad, PO Box 164, Gouverneur NY 13642 or Friends 4 Pound Paws, PO Box 394, Gouverneur NY 13642.

Service Notice: Joanne Lahtinen

A memorial mass, by Friends of the Library, for Joanne Lahtinen will be held at St. James Church, Tuesday, April 1, at noon. Anyone is welcome to attend.

Linda Love

Linda H. Love, age 77, of Gouverneur, passed away on March 12, 2025 at the Gouverneur Hospital.

There will be a private burial for Linda in the Riverside Cemetery in Gouverneur. Arrangements are entrusted to French Funeral Home. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com

Linda was born on May 23, 1947 in Syracuse to the late Ernest and Helen (Hart) Carney. She graduated from Gouverneur Central School in 1965 and from the Watertown School of Commerce in 1966.

She married George Love on October 15, 1966 at the Gouverneur United Methodist Church officiated by Rev. Stanley Brown. The couple have been together for 58 ½ years. Linda worked as a Secretary for Gouverneur Central School from 1968 until her retirement in 2008.

Linda was a voracious reader who also enjoyed gardening, watching movies and politics. She was the biggest cheerleader for her sons’ many sporting events and loved time spent with her grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband, George Love, two sons and daughters-in-law, Dennis and Jeri Love and James and Veronica Love, a brother, Robert Carney, a sister and brother-in-law, Sharon and Doug Villeneuve, and a step-sister, Nona and Mark Guertin. She is also survived by 4 grandchildren, Ashly, McKenzie, Abby and Analiese, a great-granddaughter, Adriana, and several nieces and nephews.

Linda is predeceased by her parents; her step mother, Betty Carney; a brother, Thomas Carney, a step-brother, Francis LaQuier, sisters-in-law, Sherry and Patty Carney, and a great-grandson, Marcus Downs.

Donations in memory of Linda may be made to the Gouverneur Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 164, Gouverneur, NY 13642; Friends 4 Pound Paws, P.O. Box 394, Gouverneur, NY 13642 or Gouverneur Cemetery Association, P.O. Box 29, Gouverneur, NY 13642.

Carlton Forsythe, Jr.

Carlton “Junior” W. Forsythe, Jr., age 88, passed away on March 15, 2025 at Samaritan Medical Center in Watertown.

His service will be private. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home in Gouverneur. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Carlton was born on May 31, 1936 in Gouverneur to the late Carlton W. Forsythe, Sr. and Mary M. (Wood) Forsythe. He attended Gouverneur Central School and Canton ATC where he studied Penal Law and Criminal Justice.

Junior served in the United States Army’s 3rd Armored Division in Germany, the Elite Artillery Unit and bragged that he once knocked out his Lieutenant. He served from May 31, 1955 until his honorable discharge on May 31, 1958.

He married Beverly Jesmer on January 22, 1956 at the Gouverneur United Methodist Church. The had 68 years of marriage. Junior worked as a DEC Conservation Officer before becoming a NYS Trooper. He retired in 1988 after 25 years of service. He had previously worked for J&L Steel and the Natural Dam Paper Mill. After retirement he worked for Tar Heel Paving.

Junior was an avid deer and coyote hunter, fisherman, and trapper. He was a hunting guide for Bill Farley’s Sunbeam Club and hunted elk and caribou. Junior was a Firearms Instructor for the NYS Troopers in Albany, was a member of the High-Powered Rifle league, a wildlife photographer, and a true artisan who built several street rods. Junior was a perfectionist who built his own house and for others, raced snowmobiles, and played banjo for the Red Rovers blue grass band.

He is survived by his wife, Beverly, his sons, Jeff and Clover Forsythe, Steven and Dawn Forsythe, David and Karen Forsythe, and Carlton Forsythe, III, a sister-in-law, Karen Forsythe, 7 grandchildren, Adriane, Steven Jr., Zachary, Jake, Alexandra, Olivia, and Josiah, and 5 great-grandchildren.

Junior is predeceased by his parents and his siblings, Roy and Carlene Forsythe.

Donations in his memory may be made to the New Bremen Fish and Game Club, C/o Buckingham Hardware, Attn: Jordon, 9801 Main St, Croghan, NY 13327 or the Clifton-Fine Rifle and Pistol Club, C/o UB’s Mercantile, 3386 State Route 3, Oswegatchie, NY 13670.

Brian L. Burns

Brian Lee Burns, age 51, of Watertown and formerly of Gouverneur, NY passed away on Monday, March 3, 2025 unexpectedly.

Brian was born on July 23, 1973 in Watertown to Ted and Sharon (Boclair) Burns. He graduated from Gouverneur Central School in 1992. Brian worked as a correction officer for NYSDOCCS in Gouverneur until his retirement in 2021. He married Autumn Tharrett on October 19, 2019 in Punta Cana.

Brian loved weight lifting, traveling, riding the side by side and spending summers at Sylvia Lake. He was an avid Giants football fan.

Surviving is his wife, Autumn; two sons, Caiden and Owen Burns; his father Ted Burns; two brothers, James and Michael Burns and his nieces and nephews.

Brian is predeceased by his mother, Sharon.

There was a celebration of life for Brian on Sunday, March 9, 2025 from 1:00-6:00 p.m. at the Gouverneur VFW. Arrangements are entrusted to French Funeral Home, Gouverneur. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Cheryl Bickford

Cheryl Bickford, age 70, of Pine Grove Apartments, Gouverneur, passed away on March 10, 2025 at Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse following a brief illness.

Funeral arrangements are private with French Funeral Home in Gouverneur. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Cheryl was born on November 12, 1954, the daughter of Robert “Ivan” and Madeleine (Wilson) Bickford of Fowler.

Cheryl had a love of music and pop culture; her favorite band was Heart. She loved all animals and was a supporter of animal rights. She recently lost her beloved dog Athena of 17 years whom was the light of her life. She leaves behind her adored cat, Trout.

Cheryl is survived by her brother, Kerry (Nancy) Bickford; brother-in-law, Dave Edwards; sister-in-law, Glenda Bickford; nieces, Michelle Hall and Amy (Brennan) Ordway; nephew, David (Melissa) Edwards and several great nieces and nephews.

Cheryl is predeceased by her parents; her brothers Gary Bickford and Wilson Bickford; a sister, Sandra Edwards and a niece Melissa Bickford.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Friends for Pound Paws, P.O. Box 394, Gouverneur, NY 13642.

George E. Travis

George E. Travis, age 88, of Gouverneur, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2025, surrounded by his loving family, while under the care of Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley. As per George’s wishes there will be no calling hours or funeral service, a private graveside service will be held a later date. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Frary Funeral Home, 33 Park Street, Gouverneur.

George was born on February 12, 1937, in Fullerville, the son of the late Julia M. Ashley and Nathanial F. Travis. He attended school in Fullerville and graduated from Gouverneur High School.

On November 14, 1959, he married Dorothy L. Robillard at St. James Catholic Church with Father Lyng officiating.

George worked for the New York Telephone Company before going to work for the Carpenters Local Union until his retirement in 1992. George owned many rental properties in and around Gouverneur.

George was an avid hunter, angler and enjoyed bowling in his younger years. He also enjoyed horse racingand going to the track. He enjoyed walking his beloved dogs Shadow and Buddy.

George is survived by his wife of 65 years, Dorothy, and two sons, George (Georgie) Travis, and Steven Travis, both of Gouverneur. A daughter Karen (Kay), and son-in-law, Mark Smith of Gouverneur, four grandchildren, Justin (Angie) Travis of Massena, Nathan Travis of Gouverneur, Jordan (Taylor) Smith of Queensbury, Jacey (TJ) LeConey of Gouverneur, three great-grandchildren, Aria Smith, Landon LeConey, and Brynlee LeConey. A half brother Richard Ashley of Gouverneur and several neices and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, three brothers, Theodore, Alan, and Mike Travis, two sisters Barbara Ringler, Flora (Pudgy) Abbass, and two half sisters, Kathy Mussaw, and Shirley Johnson.

Memorial donations in George’s memory may be made to Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley, 6805 US Hwy 11, Potsdam, NY 13676, or Friends 4 Pound Paws, 55 Owl Road, Gouverneur, NY 13642.

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