Ronald D. “Rock” Roberts

Ronald D. “Rock” Roberts, age 81, of Macomb, passed away on Wednesday, January 15, 2025 at his home surrounded by his family.  A private graveside service with military honors will be held in the spring at Pleasant Lake Cemetery in Brasie Corners. Funeral arrangements are with the Frary Funeral Home of Gouverneur.

He is survived by his children, Kevin Roberts and his wife, Laurie, of Somerville, and Lisa Green and her husband, Michael, of Gouverneur, his granddaughters, Taylor and Tim Furey, Kirstin and George Salg, a great-grandson, Eli Furey, his siblings, Joan and Don Wilson, David and Cheryl Roberts, Donna and Keith Edick, Bobby and Robin Roberts, and Shirley and Richard Doyle, a sister-in-law Roberta “Bertie” Roberts, many nieces and nephews.  He is predeceased by his wife, Ginny, who passed away in 2020, his parents, a sister, Dorothy Brown, and his brothers, Ray Roberts and Lonnie “Bimbo” Roberts.

Ronald was born on December 6, 1943 in Gouverneur, NY, the son of the late Harry and Mary Bacon Roberts.  He married Virginia Rose “Ginny” Wainwright on October 17, 1964 in Brasie Corners.  Ronald served in the United States Navy, during the Vietnam War and spoke highly of his tours on the USS Shangri-La. Upon returning home, he went to work for St. Joe Minerals in Balmat as an electrician, working up to the position of master electrician and electrical supervisor.

He found great joy in hunting and fishing with his friend, Wayne, playing cards, and visiting the casino. He cherished his younger days of dancing with Gin and more recently his adventures with his friend, Otto. His garage was a place where anyone could stop by, enjoy a beer, hear a joke, tell a lie, or receive some straightforward advice. It was a space filled with camaraderie and good times. A proud member of the American Legion Post 65 in Gouverneur, he was also the driving force behind the creation of the company fast-pitch softball team, which he played on for many years. During his time in the Navy, he took up boxing. The couple’s doors were always open hosting many parties, pig roasts, fish fries, and the Wainwright family reunion. They were always there for their friends and family, especially their nieces and nephews, and more recently, their granddaughters whom they were very proud of. As life slowed down, he still liked to do wiring jobs here and there, mow his lawn, and tinker on his daughter’s projects, his cars, his home, or in his garage. Papa was a proud man, of himself and his family, right to the end.

Donations in his memory can be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.

Condolences can be made online at www.fraryfuneralhomes.com.

Mary Jane Gotham

We, the family of Mary Jane Gotham, are heartbroken to announce the passing of our beloved Sister, Aunt, and Friend. Mary Jane passed away unexpectedly, but peacefully, after spending the holidays with family.

Mary Jane is a 1966 graduate of Knox Memorial Central School in Russell, NY, and a graduate from Columbia Memorial Hospital Nursing School in Hudson, NY. While working full time, she also received a Master’s Degree in Hospital Administration. Mary Jane worked at SUNY Upstate Hospital in Syracuse for over 25 years and then for EJ Noble/Gouverneur Hospital in Gouverneur, NY until her retirement.

Mary Jane was known for her enormous heart, caring nature and a determined way of getting things done. Mary Jane was a devoted sister, doting aunt, and trusted and true friend, someone you could always count on. Known simply as “Aunt Mary” to so many, she loved to share her time and generosity with others and for those things she loved. She enjoyed crafting and donated her time and talents each year to the EJ Noble/Gouverneur Hospital Auxiliary Christmas benefit. She enjoyed time with family and spending summers on Cranberry Lake and caring for her summer sidekick and four- legged companion Cooper.

Mary Jane is predeceased by her parents, Fred and Jane Gotham of Degrasse, NY, and her niece Kathy Davis-Deforge previously of Watertown, NY. She is survived by her siblings, Otie (Gail) Gotham of Cranberry Lake, NY, and Judy Raycraft of Pierrepont, NY; nieces and nephews Nikki (Peter) Gonzalez of Ridgefield, CT, Todd (Kassie) Gotham of Los Altos, CA, Shannon (Wayne) Rodger of Little Falls, NY, Daniel (Jodi) Davis, of Pierrepont, NY, Brian (Sally) Davis of Churchville, NY, and Jane (Brad) Thompson of Pyrites, NY. Mary Jane was the proud Great Aunt to Jack, Sam, George, Clark, Max, Jordan, Kara, Taylor, Brianna, Dallas, and Jacob, and proud Great-Great Aunt to Lane with one more on the way. Mary Jane’s memory will also live on with her lifetime friends, Kerry Elinich, Nancy Shumway, Lorna Dale & Dean Matice, and Nancy & Terry Skeldon.

Mary Jane touched the lives of so many. Her lively persona, her laugh, her guidance and advice, and her companionship will be missed by all. Calling hours for Mary Jane will be on Saturday, January 18, 2025 from 11:00-1:00 at French Funeral Home, Gouverneur. Her funeral service will immediately follow at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be private. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Donations may be made in Mary Jane’s memory to Friends 4 Pound Paws, 55 Owl Road, Gouverneur, NY 13642.

“Everyone should be lucky enough to have an Aunt Mary”

Connie L. Tubbs

Connie L. (Dennis) Tubbs, age 67, of Gouverneur, passed away at home on January 6, 2025 under the devoted care of her husband, family and hospice.

Connie was born on April 30, 1957 in North Hornell, NY to the late Donald R. and Linda L. (Brownell) Dennis. She grew up working alongside her parents and siblings on a small dairy farm, and this experience instilled in her the value of hard work. This was a trait that served her well throughout her life.  After graduating from Canaseraga High School, Connie tried out several careers and programs of study, one of which led her to Alfred State College, where she met her husband Allyn Tubbs. Connie married Allyn on July 31, 1977 at the Larger Parish Methodist Church in Canaseraga. This past year, Connie and Allyn celebrated their 47th year of marriage. 

As a parent of young children with a full-time job, Connie went back to school and earned her Bachelor’s degree in Education from Elmira College in 1986. At 30, she began her teaching career, which spanned over three decades, and included 31 years for Gouverneur and Fowler Elementary Schools, before her retirement in 2019.  

Connie loved to spend time with her family, and her greatest joy was her children and grandchildren. She loved the country, especially its hills and mountains, its creeks and ponds. She loved to be in the water. Connie had a special place in her heart for Limekiln Lake in the Adirondack Mountains, a place she visited throughout her life – first as a child, then as a mother, and then as a grandmother. Connie was an avid reader and also enjoyed tending to the flower beds around her home. She loved the color blue and bringing home interesting rocks from her travels. Connie was a member of the United Church of Richville and was very blessed by her church family.

Connie is survived by her husband, Allyn Tubbs, her children, Donald Tubbs, Anna and her husband, Gordon Emery, and Katie Tubbs and her fiancé, Brad Grace, and her siblings, Donna and Robert Wilson, Rev. Denny and Kathy Dennis, Jeff and Pam Dennis, and Cindy and Randy French. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Ethan Gaines, Caio Tubbs, Matteo Tubbs, Wyatt Russell Tubbs, Oliver Emery, and Oscar Emery, and seventeen nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held at the United Church of Richville on Friday, January 10, 2025 from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. and on Saturday, January 11, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. followed by her memorial service at 12:00 p.m. at the church. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralshomes.com.

Eric John Wood

Eric John Wood, age 53, passed away on January 3, 2025.  Calling hours were held on Saturday January 11, 2025 from 11am until 1 PM at Frary Funeral Home, 33 Park St. Gouverneur.  

Eric was born on May 29, 1971, the son of Ronald Wood and Peggy Davison.  He graduated from Edwards-Knox Central School in 1991. Eric proudly served his country in the US Army, being stationed in Haiti, Hawaii, Texas, and Fort Drum.  He was honorably discharged as an E5 SGT Medic.  Eric was a corrections officer, he worked at Greenhaven, Upstate, and most recently Gouverneur Correctional, retiring after 25 years of service.  On May 28, 2022 he married Julie Lacey.  

Eric is survived by his wife Julie, a son Brandon Wood "Strongest Soldier" of Chicago, a daughter Madison "his princess" and fiance Tyler Cervini.  The apple of his eye, his grandson Colton Cervini.  Step daughters Miranda Bevel "his Matilda", Jade McIntosh "his beauty queen" and fiance Blake Massey, Aspen Bishop "his little girl".  His mother Peggy Davison Jones, a brother Darren Wood of Star Lake, Sisters Carrie and Ricky Skeldon of Newton Falls, Suzie and Steven Weed of Colorado, his step mother Paula Nicholas Wood, step sisters Lisa and Scott Hays, Liza and Michael Littere, and Christina and James Maher, nieces Morgan and Luke Austin, Mariah and Hayden Irish, and Madalynne Skeldon.  His hunting family at "Buck Pond", the "Doll House", or at "Cotton Creek". His beloved family pets Josey and Jax, whom he taught several tricks.  

Eric is predeceased by his paternal grandparents, and maternal grandparents, his father Ronnie Wood who was his idol, his cousin Ryan Wood who was his best "bandmember". 

 Eric was always surrounded by the most loving, compassionate and loyal family and friends. He was the happiest when the kids were gathered around having fun bonding harmoniously.   He loved anything outdoors as he considered himself a "professional" hunter and fisherman, always chasing the big rack bucks or the biggest fish in the lake always while wearing a smile. 

Friends and family are encouraged to leave online condolences for Eric's family at www.fraryfuneralhome.com.

"Through thick and thin our memories together will always remain, a bond that no distance can break."

Eugene N. Hockey

Eugene N. "Gene" Hockey, age 89, of Honeoye Falls, New York, and formerly of Brownville, New York, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on December 23, 2024 at his home.

Born on April 18, 1935, in Gouverneur, New York, Gene was the son of William and Mildred (Staie) Hockey.  He graduated from Gouverneur High School and attended Canton ATI. 

On August 18, 1956, he married Shirley Goodison in Gouverneur, New York. The couple, introduced by Shirley’s brother Sonny, shared nearly 74 wonderful years together and made their home in Brownville for most of their married life.

Gene worked as a cable splicer for New York Telephone Company, retiring in 1989. He was a former member of the Brownville Fire Department, as well as, a dedicated member of the Local 1124 Communications Workers of America (CWA), serving as secretary-treasurer and vice president.

Gene was a multi-talented man and excelled at clever approaches for solving problems. He remodeled every portion of his home on his own, building two additions for which he dug the foundations by hand and completed all masonry, carpentry, electric and plumbing. Gene also built a scale model remote- control tugboat from scratch and a crowd frequently gathered to watch it sail. The 5-foot-long vessel featured sound effects, water cannons, video camera and 2-way radio used to converse with other vessels as he passed them. Gene always got a kick out of using the tugboat to push his grandkids around on tubes at Sylvia Lake.

Gene’s most essential skill, however, was his sense of humor. He entertained his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren for years with his antics and imitations. Gene taught us all that a sense of humor can help in the best and worst of times. He was able to joke, smile and entertain even as his physical abilities were declining.

Gene and Shirley cherished their time spent wintering in Ocala, Florida, for 25 years. They traveled extensively for a portion of that time pulling their RV, on which Gene hand- painted a frog on the rear wheel cover with the words, “I go where I’m toad.” They were thrilled when their grandson renovated the 32-year- old trailer and started traveling with it again!

Gene is survived by his daughter, Cindi (Fred) Dowd of Honeoye Falls, NY; his son, David (Cherie) Hockey of Caroga Lake, NY; his sister, Connie (Bob) Ritchie; his brother-in-law, Gordon (Charlotte) Goodison of Syracuse, NY and his sister-in-law Elaine Hockey of Tupper Lake, NY. He is also survived by five grandchildren (Joshua Roth, Bryan Roth, Emily Ishman, Kevin Hockey, and Elliott Hockey), five great-grandchildren (Lucas, Lily, Eden, Lincoln, and Nora) and many nieces and nephews.

Gene was predeceased by his loving wife, Shirley, sister Joyce Russell, brother William Hockey and brothers-in-law, Merrill “Sonny” Goodison and Fred Russell.

Gene’s wish was to be cremated. No services will be held at this time. Burial will take place at the Brownville Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home, Dexter, NY.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Gene’s memory may be made to The ALS Association at http://www.als.org.

John Prescott Tremlett

John Prescott Tremlett, 80, of Asheville, NC passed away on Thursday, December 26, 2024 at his home.

John was born on June 7, 1944 in Gouverneur, NY to the late James Richard Tremlett and Marjorie Wingfield Kingston Paupst.

John obtained his B.S. in Business from Syracuse University in 1968 and his M.B.A. from Thunderbird Graduate School in 1973.

In his youth John played fullback for the Gouverneur High School Wildcats and co-captained the undefeated 1961 Northern League Champion team, which was inducted into the Gouverneur High School Wall of Fame in 2017. He was very proud of his service in the US Air Force Strategic Air Command from 1968-1972. He worked in Manhattan early in his career, then later earned a certificate from the New England Culinary Institute where he interned at the Prairie Star Restaurant and the Ritz Carlton and used his knowledge of cuisine to intimidate wait staff anytime he ordered a medium rare steak. He enjoyed a cold glass of chardonnay or a Tito’s martini with a twist, vanilla ice cream, yelling at football games on TV, travelling, reading, and spending time with his children, whom he called his “three best friends”.

After a long and complicated illness, he finally surrendered to the inevitable and passed peacefully at his home in Asheville, which he painstakingly designed and furnished to his exacting standards, and absolutely loved living in.

Surviving John is his daughter, Jill Tremlett Large of Wilmington, NC; sons, Adam Craig Tremlett (Kelly) of Naugatuck, CT and Mark Alexander Tremlett of Santa Fe, NM; brother, James R. Tremlett Jr. of Vestal, NY; sister, Jan K. Tremlett of Sarasota, FL; grandsons, Russell “Russ” Tremlett Large of Wilmington, NC and Cole Tremlett of Naugatuck, CT; and granddaughters Reese and Genevieve Tremlett and Aubrey Longanecker of Naugatuck, CT.

The family would like to thank his friends and neighbors in Sovereign Oaks for making his final years full of community and companionship; as well as the doctors, nurses, and staff at the Charles George VA Medical Center for providing exceptional care.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to the Neuse River Golden Retriever Rescue https:/www.goldenrescuene.org/memorials or donating blood or plasma to your local Red Cross.

Julie Strough

Julie Ann (Finley) Strough, age 69, of Gouverneur, passed away on January 8, 2025 at the Gouverneur Hospital.

There will be a graveside service at a later date in East Riverside Cemetery in Gouverneur. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home in Gouverneur. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Julie was born on July 2, 1955 in Gouverneur to the late Owen X. Finley, Sr. and Mary F. (Pridell) Finley. She graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1973, attended SUNY Plattsburgh, and earned her B.S. in Education from SUNY Potsdam. Julie furthered her education earning an A.S. in Drug and Alcohol Abuse Counseling from Mater Dei College in Ogdensburg and her Master’s degree in Social Work from Syracuse University. She was proud to be a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.

Julie was a hard worker. When she was young, she had a variety of jobs including working at the first Jreck Sub Shop in Gouverneur, short order cook, and manager of a Chinese restaurant. After completing her degree in social work, Julie worked for several social service agencies throughout St. Lawrence, Jefferson, and Lewis Counties. Later, she also worked as a customer service representative at Stream Call Center in Watertown. Julie was a member of the Church of Latter-Day Saints. She had a great interest in family genealogy, loved to read, watched soap operas (especially “The Young and the Restless”), was a Buffalo Bill’s fan, and enjoyed listening to 60’s and 70’s music, especially the Beatles. A marriage to Jeffrey L. Strough ended in divorce.

Julie was very family oriented. She loved babies and was good with children. She loved animals, especially her cats, playing cards and games, being outside and going for walks.

She is survived by her son and his wife, Steelson and Kristena Strough, 3 grandchildren, Mia, Zoe, and Ian, her siblings, Owen X. Finley, Jr. and his wife, Karola, Roxann Finley, Barbara Wicks, and Brenda Kluttz and her husband, Danny. She is also survived by her nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.

Julie is predeceased by her parents, Owen and Mary Finley.

Donations in memory of Julie may be made to Friends 4 Pound Paws or Ryan’s Wish Foundation.

Malcolm Hill

Malcolm Hill formally of Edwards, New York passed away on Monday, January 6th, 2025 at the age of 91, where he had been a resident in the nursing home at the Lewis County General Hospital in Lowville, New York.

He was born on his family's farm on Hill Road in Russell, New York. The youngest of 6 children, born to the late Harold and Florence Shaw-Hill on June 12th 1933. Malcolm, graduated High school from Knox Memorial Central school in Russell. He married his sweetheart Lura "Carr" Hill on October the 5th, 1952 at the first Baptist church in Gouverneur, New York.

Malcolm and Lura moved from the farm and bought the Edwards Tavern, which he and his wife ran for many years. During that time he also served his country as a Sergeant in the United States Army Reserves for 15 years where he was honorably discharged in the 60s. After many years they sold the Edwards Tavern and moved to Great Bend, New York where he and his wife both worked briefly on Fort Drum. After a short time they moved back to the Edwards area where they then purchased The American House on Main Street in Edwards, New York. They owned and operated the A-House for many more years until his retirement in the late 80s. He and his wife Lura built a new home on River Road in Edwards. Malcolm liked to stay busy. He ran a coffee business where he delivered coffee and maintained equipment to local businesses and schools. He cut and split firewood with both his sons' Jeff and John; where many memories were made. At that time it sold for $22 a cord. Eventually Malcolm went back to work after a very short retirement from the bar business. He was a cleaner at the Edwards-Knox Central School where Malcolm finally fully retired at the age of 80 years old. He and his wife of 71 years lived in their house up until the past couple of years, where they both resided at the nursing home together.

Malcolm was a Mason in the Wildwood Lodge 477 Edwards, a past member of the Elks Lodge 2035, He was a founder and longtime member of the Saint Lawrence County Hotel and Bar Association, The Sand Hill Hunting Club, The Doe Haven Hunting Club, life time honorary and member of the Edwards Fire Department, and a very special place to him The Pine Tree Hunting Club in Edwards, where Malcolm had many stories to tell and enjoyed his lifelong friends old and new. He enjoyed watching sports, hunting, bowling, and road trips up the road to the Golden Glow. He followed his son Jeff's softball team when he could. If he couldn't make the game, you bet we would get a phone call asking "who won", and "how did it go". He loved music, dancing and watching westerns. He enjoyed going on trips and bus rides with his wife Lura, and the locals, all across the state and then some. One of his favorite trips was to Atlantic City. He was also a very avid fan of the New York Yankees. Malcolm was very respected in his community. He was a great man and always supported his family, his community and helped anyone in need. He touched many lives with his positive outlook and open mind. Malcolm cherished his grand-daughters, Heather and Heidii; he enjoyed watching them grow into beautiful young women. He was elated when he would find that he would also have great-grandchildren. His family was his joy in life. He was a proud man, had loads of stories and advice that compared to no others. He will be missed by many. 

He is survived by his wife Lura of 71 years. His son Jeff and Linda Fowler, his grand-daughter, Heather and Jeff Cookville, Tennessee; his grand-daughter Heidii, Edwards and his great-grandchildren; Nathanial, Abigail, and Alexandra. Malcolm is predeceased by his son John S. Hill, a great-grandson, Markell  L.S.Tiller and his siblings; Marie, Albertie, Ralph, Clours, and JC. Arrangements are under the care of Frary Funeral Home, 33 Park Street, Gouverneur. Calling hours to be held on Saturday, January 18th at the Edwards United Methodist Church from 11-1 with the memorial service immediately following with Reverend Tongue officiating. Burial will be at Fairview Cemetery, Edwards at the family's convenience.

Donations may be made in Memory of Malcolm to the Edwards Fire Department or a charity of one's choice.

Condolences may be shared with Malcolm’s family at www.fraryfuneralhome.com.

Shirley A. Johnson

Shirley A. Johnson, age 87 passed away on January 5, 2025 at her home surrounded by her loving family while under the care of Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley.  A private family graveside will be held in the Spring at New St. James Cemetery.  Arrangements are under the care and guidance of Frary Funeral Home, 33 Park St. Gouverneur. 

Shirley was born on October 14, 1937, the daughter of Nathan Travis and Amelia Jurkovich. Shirley was employed as a Licensed Practical Nurse at St. Joseph's Nursing Home in Ogdensburg.  On April 30, 1976 she married Brent Johnson in Gouverneur.  

Shirley is survived by her husband Brent, two daughters, Debbie Kelly and Cindy and John McElroy of Gouverneur, two sons James and Marie Moore of Hailesboro and Greg and Lisa Hurley of Texas. She has 8 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren.  

Shirley enjoyed spending time with her family and she had a special spot in her heart for animals. 

Memorial donations in Shirley's memory may be made to the Ogdensburg SPCA, 6718 NY 68, Ogdensburg, NY 13669 or Friends 4 Pound Paws, 55 Owl Road, Gouverneur, NY 13642.

Stella Cecilia Pevear

Stella Cecilia Pevear, 81, passed away on Sunday, December 22, 2024 at her home under the care of her loving family and Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley. Calling hours will be held on Saturday, December 28th from 10:00 to 11:30 am with a memorial service at 11:30 am at the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur and a celebration of life to follow at 12:30 pm at the Casablanca Restaurant in Gouverneur.

Stella was born in Pine Island, NY on December 17, 1943, the daughter of Joseph and Stella (Daios) Zupetz. She graduated from Warwick Valley High School in Warwick, NY in 1961 and then served in the United States Army from December 1961 to August 1967 as a Dental Assistant.

Stella was previously married to Irving Pevear. They resided in Brentwood, NH until they moved to the Gouverneur area where they raised their family while running a dairy farm. Stella worked for the Department of The Army at Fort Drum as a Supply Technician and retired in 2013.

Stella and her companion, Edward Lincoln, of 36 years, enjoyed spending time with their family, especially the grandchildren. You could often find Stella in her flower gardens where she spent most of her summer days. She also enjoyed reading and playing the lottery. She will be remembered most for her generosity and love for others.

She is survived by her daughter Sherri Knight and her husband Jeff of Gouverneur, NY, son Hollis Pevear and his wife Chando of Dacula, Georgia, Patrick Lincoln of Webster, NY, grandchildren Samantha Campanaro and her husband Jim, Daniel Mullin and his wife Maya, Allyson Smith and her husband Joey, Prescott Pevear, Hayden Lincoln, Samantha Lincoln and 5 great grandchildren.

Stella is also survived by her sister Jane Harris of Pine Island, NY, her sister-in-law Charlotte Zupetz, nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her parents, a brother John Zupetz, and a brother-in-law Tom Harris.

In honor of Stella, memorial donations are encouraged to the Gouverneur Garden Club.

Max A. Tessmer II

Max A. Tessmer II celebrated his 64th birthday in the loving embrace of his Lord, Jesus Christ. Max passed away on December 20, 2024 at Upstate Medical in Syracuse, after a lifetime of dedicated service and love to God and mankind.

Max was born on December 20, 1960 in Gouverneur, NY to Max E. and Vivian E. (Orford) Tessmer. He graduated from Gouverneur Central School in 1979 and then went on and received his BS degree in Agricultural Engineering from Cornell University. 

Max was a lifelong dairy farmer, owning and operating the family farm, Tessacres Farms. Mack was very active in several local churches and bible studies and was active in Prison Ministry for a time. He had a strong love for the outdoors and enjoyed hunting, fishing and spending time at Chub Lake on the family farm. He treasured playing volleyball, playing cards and games with his family and friends and was an aspiring guitar player. 

Surviving are his mother, Vivian; a son, Max E. (Brooke) Tessmer II; four daughters, Gretchen Tessmer, Heidi (Doug) Turner, Olivia Tessmer and Annie Tessmer; the mother of his five children, Jacqueline Tessmer; four sisters, Bethany Northrup, Cynthia (Robert) Angyal, Belinda Tessmer and Melissa Tessmer; close friends Judd and Courtney Foote, and their four children that he regarded as family; an aunt, Dorothy Orford; an uncle, Stan (Joanne) Orford; a niece and several nephews and several cousins and his beloved dog, Tyr. Max is predeceased by his father, Max E. Tessmer.

There will be calling hours for Max on Friday, December 27, 2024 from 1:00-4:00 p.m. and on Saturday, December 28th from 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. at French Funeral Home, Gouverneur, with a Celebration of Life immediately following on Saturday, December 28th at 12:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that in recognition of Max’s generous and giving heart, to please feel free to pay it forward to those who are in need.

Roger J. Frisco

Roger J. Frisco, age 72, of Gouverneur, NY passed away on Friday, December 6, 2024 at Claxton Hepburn Medical Center in Ogdensburg.

Roger was born on September 1, 1952 in Gouverneur to the late James H. and Ruth A. (LaRock) Frisco. He was one of five children. Roger graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1970. On September 27, 1980, he married Sandra Miller. They had a wonderful life together and had four beautiful children.

Roger was a self-employed master carpenter. He was a skillful woodworker and enjoyed working on the lathe creating beautiful wood pieces. One of his favorite pastimes was to ride his motorcycle in the Adirondack Mountains.

Surviving is his wife, Sandra; three sons, Jamie, Jesse and George; a daughter, Ayla and seven grandchildren.

In keeping with Roger’s wishes, there will be no calling hours or funeral service. Arrangements are entrusted to French Funeral Home, Gouverneur. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Marlene Watson

Marlene Watson, 89, passed away on Thursday, November 28, 2024 at Gouverneur Hospital.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, December 4th from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm with a funeral service at 1:00 pm with Linda McEathron officiating at the Green Funeral Home in Gouverneur and private burial in Fairview Cemetery, Edwards.

Marlene was born in Edwards on August 14,1935, the daughter of Leone and Evelyn (Barraford) Watson.

She graduated from Edwards Central School, NYS College for Teachers in Albany, and received her master’s degree from St. Lawrence University.

Marlene was employed at Clifton-Fine Central School before joining Gouverneur Central School where she worked until retirement in January 1990. She was a beloved teacher who strived to make every student succeed.

Marlene was an icon in the community frequently seen walking for miles every day. She also volunteered at the Kinney Nursing Home, and she developed many close relationships with friends and neighbors. She loved to travel, play tennis, and play cards with her sister and nieces.

She is survived by her sister, Joanne Orford of Gouverneur, as well as several nieces and nephews. Marlene is predeceased by her parents Leone and Evelyn, and her brothers, Robert Watson and Roderick Watson.

Memorial donations in honor of Marlene may be made to a charity of one’s choice.

William Porter

William F. Porter, age 90, of Gouverneur, passed away on December 1, 2024 at Canton-Potsdam Hospital.

There will be no services. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home in Gouverneur. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

William was born on July 20, 1934 in Pitcairn to the late Arthur F. and Grace M. (Farr) Porter. He graduated from Edwards High School and married Suzanne K. Benjamin on October 29, 1966 at the Gouverneur United Methodist Church. He had served in the United States Army from March 27, 1957 until his honorable discharge on March 26, 1959.

William farmed it before working at the Natural Dam Paper Mill and St. Joe Minerals as a laborer, then worked as a mechanic on Fort Drum until retiring in 1992. At home, William enjoyed raising and keeping horses.

He is survived by his wife, Suzanne Porter, two daughters, Melissa Ellen and Tim Bishop and Wendy Sue and Ben Martin, siblings, Carol Felt and Patricia Reed, 6 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

He is predeceased by siblings, Mohan Porter, Benjamin Porter, Irvin Porter, Lillian Gollinger, Sally Hays, Margaret Whitford, and Evelyn Richards.

Robert F. Paro Jr.

Funeral services for Robert F. Paro Jr., 82, of Richville, New York, will be held on Tuesday, November 26, 2024 at 11 a.m., at Frary Funeral Home in Ogdensburg, NY. A visitation will be held on Monday, November 25th, 2024 from 4-7 p.m. at the funeral home.  Burial will follow the funeral service at Hillcrest Cemetery in Heuvelton with a reception at the Heuvelton Fire Hall.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Frary Funeral Home, Ogdensburg.

Robert F. Paro, Jr., known by his family as “Chug,” and by “Popcorn” to his work friends, was born on October 18, 1942 in Fine, NY.  He was the son of the late Robert and Matha (Daniels) Paro, Sr.  As a boy, he attended a one-room school house and later Lisbon Central School and worked on the family farm.  He loved the dairy farm life and working with his parents and siblings.

On February 15, 1963, he married the love of his life, Edna May Carter.  They initially resided on the family homestead until they bought their own farm in Depeyster which Robert operated as dairy for a few years.  He also hauled milk for the local farmers and he and Edna started their family there. He later went on to have a hobby farm in Richville where he loved raising cattle and other livestock for the remainder of his life.

Robert began working for St. Joe Mineral Corp. in Fowler, NY in late 1960’s.  Robert was active in his union and served on the mine rescue team.  After a long strike at the mines, Robert began working as a member of the Laborer’s Local Union #1822 in Massena, NY in 1985.  He worked in construction and as a heavy equipment operator until the end of his career.  Robert had an exemplary work ethic and enjoyed the company of his co-workers.

Robert loved to travel and take long road trips with his family and friends.  As a boy, he dreamed of traveling to all 50 of the United States.  He accomplished this in 2003 with a surprise romantic trip to Hawaii with Edna which he bought her for her birthday.  Family trips also included Nova Scotia, Alaska, Hershey Park, the State Fair, New England, and Myrtle Beach.  He and Edna did an extensive cross-country trip of the US visiting several national parks and monuments.  The year that Disney World opened in 1972 he took his daughters to enjoy the new iconic attraction.  Robert loved sharing his experiences with all who would listen. 

Robert was a storyteller.  He loved to recount the details of his adventures.  He was a great observer of the world, of people, and the wildness of life.  He loved to make people laugh with his corny jokes.  In true grandpa style, he teased his grandchildren and found himself very funny.   He loved gardening (Does anyone need a zucchini?), tooling around on his tractor, and maintaining his swimming pool.  He was an avid fan of SU Basketball and SLU Hockey, both the women’s and men’s teams. 

But he was the biggest fan of his grandchildren.  He loved watching their athletic endeavors and concerts, and cheering them on at games and meets regardless of the weather or distance.  He smiled as they played together in the pool; showed them how to stack wood; and spent as much time with them as he could. They were one of his greatest joys.

His is survived by his wife of 61 years, Edna May (Carter) Paro, his children; Laurie Paro and her companion Hugh Matt of Canton, Linda Paro and her companion Matt Chesebro of Rome, and Lisa Knight and her husband Leo Knight Jr. of Gouverneur.  He also leaves behind to cherish his memory, his grandchildren; Nathan Minckler and his wife Rachel of Fredericksburg, VA, Jonathan Carls of Westboro, MA, Kurtis Knight of Waltham, MA and Kortney Knight of Gouverneur.  He is survived by his sisters; Beverly Becker and her husband Gus of Ogdensburg and Barbara Burns of Ogdensburg. His brother-in-law, Charles “Chick” Carter also survives him along with many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was predeceased by his daughter Rose Beth Paro in infancy, his brothers; Bradford and Ronald Paro and his sister Beatrice Lytle.

Donations in Robert’s memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or to Friends 4 Pound Paws, 55 Owl Road, Gouverneur, NY 13642.

Online condolences may be made at www.FraryFuneralHome.com.