Marion Drury Baker, 86, of the Hollandale Apts. died peacefully on Wednesday April 24, 2019 at St. Peter’s Hospital in Albany surrounded by her loving family. She was born on April 13, 1933 in Gouverneur, NY and was the daughter of the late Colonel Frederic and Muriel Ackerman Drury. She was a graduate of The Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam where she received her Bachelor and Master of Art degrees in Music Education. Marion was the beloved wife of the late Francis W. “Frank” Baker who died on May 16, 2015. They were married for 52 years. She retired in 1995 from the Shenendehowa Central School District in Clifton Park where she had been a music teacher. Earlier, she had taught in the Mechanicville School District. She was an active member and Cantor for Corpus Christi Church in Ushers for a number of years. Her passions included reading and spending time at her family camp, Drury Point, on Black Lake, NY. Most important to Marion was the time spent with her children, grandchildren and extended family. She felt a special closeness to her extended Black Lake cousins. She was a former communicant of All Saints on the Hudson, South Church in Mechanicville. She is the devoted mother of Anne-Marie (Anthony) Barone of Clifton Park, NY, Frederic Drury (Rex) Baker of Trumbull, CT, and Ellen B. (Shannon) Shine of Clifton Park, NY; sister of the late Frederic Ackerman Drury; cherished grandmother of Ashleigh (David) Bonzerato, Anthony (fiancé, Paige Copeland) Barone, Alexis Shine, Rachael Shine, Victoria Barone and Timothy Shine; Sister in law to Mary Baker of Canton, MI; Stephen Lucas of Smithville, NJ; Michael (Ellen) Baker of Troy, NY. Marion was anxiously awaiting the birth of her twin great grandchildren. She is also survived by several nieces, nephews and cousins. The family would like to thank the incredible staff of the Critical Care Unit of St. Peter’s Hospital for their expert and compassionate care. Funeral service were held on Sunday at 12:30 pm in the Gordon C. Emerick Funeral Home, 1550 Rt. 9 in Clifton Park, NY 12065 with Deacon Walter A. MacKinnon officiating. Calling hours were from 11:00 – 1:00 pm Sunday in the funeral home. Interment will be private in St. Paul’s Cemetery in Mechanicville at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to the American Heart Association (www2.heart.org) or the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (www.give.bcrf.org) For online condolences please visit Gordoncemerickfuneralhome.com
Service Notices: Eleanor Griffith
A graveside service for Eleanor Griffith will be held on Sunday, May 12 at 1 pm at Riverside Cemetery, Gouverneur. Eleanor, 101, passed away on Dec. 27, 2018.
Hermon - A graveside service for Genevieve "Genny" Durham will be held on Saturday, May 11 at 10 am at Woodland Cemetery, Fine. Genny, 96, passed away on April 20.
Gouverneur - A celebration of life for William "Bill" Scozzafava will be held on Saturday, May 11 from 2-6 pm at the Casablanca Restaurant, Gouverneur. Bill, 92, passed away on Dec. 11, 2018.
Donald L. Fifield
Donald L. "Donnie" Fifield, 69, passed away on Friday, April 19, 2019 at Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse.
There are no funeral services at this time, and a celebration of life will be announced later in the spring. Arrangements are with the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur.
Donald was born in Gouverneur on May 9, 1949, the son of Glenn and Gladys Dox Fifield.
He attended school in Hermon and served in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War.
Donnie married Rose M. Matice on December 23, 1981.
He worked at Appleton Paper Company in Newton Falls for 27 years before retiring. Donnie enjoyed fishing, snowmobiling, riding his motorcycle, and in years passed, had played softball and was known for his long distance running. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his pets and family.
Donnie belonged to the Canton VFW and the AMVETS of DeKalb.
Donnie is survived by his wife Rose, his children Nelson and Nancy Carpenter of Canton, Teresa and Mark Caudle of North Carolina, Gladys Hall of Hermon, his grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, two brothers Glenn Jr. and Elmer "Boogie" Fifield, and his grandson Travis Carpenter.
Memorial donations in Donald's memory are encouraged to Friends 4 Pound Paws, PO Box 394, Gouverneur, NY 13642.
Genevieve Durham
Genevieve "Genny" Durham, 96, passed away on Saturday, April 20, 2019 at her home under the care of her NYSARC family and Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley.
Calling hours were held on Wednesday, April 24th from 12:00 to 2:00 pm at the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur with burial in Woodland Cemetery in Fine later in the spring.
Genevieve was born in DeGrasse on February 28, 1923, one of ten children of James and Virda VanZant Durham.
She enjoyed writing letters, coloring pictures, playing bingo, and had a love for cats.
Genny is survived by her son William "Willie" Durham of Heuvelton, her brothers Joseph Durham of Fine, Erwin Durham of Unadilla, her sisters Marion Davenport of Fine, Keitha Durham of Fine, Edna Coffie of Harrisville, several nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her parents, a brother Levi Durham, sisters Marjorie Durham, Ida Durham, and Vangeline Durham.
Lemuel Chapin
Lemuel L. Chapin, age 89, of Gouverneur, passed away on Thursday, April 18, 2019 at Maplewood Nursing Home in Canton.
Calling hours will be on Wednesday, April 24, 2019 from 3:00-5:00p.m. at French Funeral Home, Gouverneur, with the funeral service immediately following at 5:00 p.m. Burial will be at Fairview Cemetery in Edwards at a later date. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.
Lemuel was born on February 13, 1930 in Edwards, NY to the late Lemuel M. and Edith (O’Shea) Chapin. He attended Edwards Central School. In 1954 he entered into the United States Army and served until his honorable discharge in 1956. Lemuel married Sally J. Patton on April 1954 at the Fowler Baptist Church with Rev. Work officiating. Sally passed away on November 14, 2017.
Lemuel worked as a truck driver for various companies throughout his life. He enjoyed spending time camping with his family.
Surviving is two sons, Richard Chapin of Florida and Michael Chapin of Gouverneur; three daughters, Judy Chapin of Florence, Mass, Nancy Chapin of Gouverneur and Barbara Chapin of Shortsville; two sisters, Jean White of Syracuse and Mildred Chapin of Florida; 10 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Lemuel is predeceased by his wife, Sally; a son, Kenneth Chapin; a daughter, Karen Chapin; three brothers, Edwin, Aubrey and Merle and a sister, Janette Hight.
Donations may be made in Lemuel’s name to the Gouverneur Rescue Squad.
Jane Rue
Jane C. Rue, age 53, of Richville, passed away on Saturday, April 13, 2019 at Canton-Potsdam Hospital.
There will be calling hours for Jane on Thursday, April 18, 2019 from 10:00am-12:00pm at French Funeral Home, Gouverneur. Her funeral service will immediately follow at 12:00pm with Rev. Elizabeth Quick from the Gouverneur Methodist Church officiating. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.
Jane was born on June 30, 1965 in Gouverneur to Richard and Keitha (Reynolds) Yerdon. She graduated from Gouverneur Central School in 1982. A marriage to Timothy Cousino and Patrick Rue Sr. both ended in divorce.
Jane worked in customer service for Community Bank. She had previously worked for DHL. Jane loved crafting and had her own crafting business called Deja Ru and CJ Custom Creation. She also enjoyed baking and cooking.
Surviving is her mother, Keitha Mullin; three sons, William Cousino, Cody Rue and Patrick Rue Jr.; four brothers, Peter Yerdon, John Yerdon, William Yerdon and Thomas Yerdon; a sister Diane Murphy; three step brothers, Stephen Rosenbarker, Mark Rosenbarker and Michael Rosenbarker; two step sisters, Karen Lancto and Valerie Daniels; two grandchildren, Willow Cousino and Brian Rue and several nieces and nephews.
Jane is predeceased by her father, Richard Yerdon and a brother, Andrew Yerdon.
Donations may be made in Jane’s memory to a charity of one’s choice.
Joie McDougall
Joie Charles McDougall, age 64, of Gouverneur passed away on Tuesday, April 16, 2019 at his home under the loving care of his family and Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley.
Joie was born on November 17, 1954 in Gouverneur to the late Charles and Harriett L. (Tharrett) McDougall Jr. He attended Gouverneur Central School. On November 29, 1975, he married Diane Rickett at the Gouverneur United Methodist Church.
Joie worked as a machine operator at Cives Steel for 15 years. He had previously worked in Maintenance for Kinney Drugs. He was a member of the Gouverneur Fire Department for 15 years, where he was also a member of the Dive team and a former Fire Police. He was a member of the Gouverneur Elks Lodge, Past commander of the Sons of the American Legion and the VFW Auxiliary. He loves cooking and listening to good old country music.
Surviving is his wife Diane of Gouverneur; two sons and their wives, Charles and Kristy and Jamie and Sandra all of Gouverneur; three brothers, David of Fowler, Stevie and Diane of Conway, SC and Allen of Fowler; three sisters, Kathy and Jim Harris of Heuvelton, Debbie and Herbie Coates of Gouverneur and Amie and Dave Wing of Louisiana; five grandchildren, Charles Jr., Emma, Lily, Alexandra and Olivia and several nieces and nephews.
Calling hours for Joie will be at French Funeral Home, Gouverneur on Thursday, April 18, 2019 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. His funeral service will be on Friday, April 19th at 10:00a.m., at the Gouverneur Community Center. Burial will follow at East Riverside Cemetery in Gouverneur. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.
Donations may be made in Joie’s memory to the Gouverneur Volunteer Fire Department, 1035 US Hwy. 11, Gouverneur, NY 13642.
Joyce Mae Stammer
Joyce Mae Stammer, age 88, of Gouverneur, passed away surrounded by her loving family on April 14, 2019 at the Carthage Center Nursing Home where she has resided for two years.
Calling hours were held at French Funeral Home in Gouverneur on Wednesday, April 17, 2019 from 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. immediately followed by her funeral service at 2:00 p.m. Burial will be in the East Riverside Cemetery.
Joyce was born on May 13, 1930 in Macomb. She was one of 16 children to the late Alvin and Bertha (Dane) Washburn. She attended Gouverneur Central School. Joyce married Donald J. Stammer on April 6, 1957 at the Macomb Wesleyan parsonage officiated by Rev. James Keyser. Joyce and Donald owned and operated the Laurellea Farm in Gouverneur for many years.
Joyce was an avid gardener and loved to feed and watch her birds. She enjoyed baking for her grandchildren, quilting and crafting, and attending the Macomb Community Church events. Joyce was a member of the former E.J. Noble Hospital Auxiliary.
Her survivors include her daughters and sons-in-law, Cynthia and Michael Backovski of Waynesboro, VA and Deborah and Steven Horn of Abbottstown, PA; brothers, Arthur, Charles (Donna) and Richard (Liz); and sisters, Sarah (Ford) Reynolds, Ada (Donald) Bayne, Mary (Harold) Bresett, Anna Washburn, Leona “Skipper” Jones and Bettie Rook. She is also survived by 6 grandchildren, Andrew, Allison, and Katie Backovski, Steven Horn Jr, Christina Wilson and Cassandra Horn; and a great-grandson, Henry Horn.
She is predeceased by her husband, Donald; brothers, James and Sylvester Washburn; and sisters, Nilah Sias, June LaVack, Joanne Washburn and Eleanor Solar.
Donations in memory of Joyce may be made to the Macomb Community Church, 12 Co Rt 7, Gouverneur NY 13642. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.
Paul K. Gates
Paul K. Gates, age 87, of Gouverneur, passed away on April 11, 2019 at Gouverneur Hospital due to pneumonia after a 12-year battle with voice box cancer.
There will be a funeral Mass held at St. James Catholic Church on Wednesday, April 17, 2019 at 1:00 p.m. A Celebration of Life will follow at the Gouverneur VFW. There are no calling hours. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home in Gouverneur.
Paul was born on December 16, 1931 in Auburn, NY to the late Paul K. Gates Sr. and Margerite (Sayre) Gates. He graduated from Gouverneur Central School in 1949 and served in the United States Navy during the Korean War.
Paul married Grace Laverghetta on April 27, 1957 at St. James Church. He worked as the manager of J.J. Newberry’s before beginning his career at CIVES Steel in 1964 as a chief estimator. He retired in 2009.
Mr. Gates was a member of the Gouverneur Elks Lodge where he served as former Exalted Ruler and the District Deputy to the Grand Exalted Ruler. He enjoyed fishing and usually caught the biggest fish in the group. He also enjoyed hunting and dancing. He was a great remodeler of homes. He and Grace enjoyed their camp on Sylvia Lake for over 30 years.
Paul is survived by his wife of 62 years, Grace; his four children, Deborah Gates Bush, Scott “SG” Gates, Christopher Gates and Marc Gates; five grandchildren, Angela Bush Yocum, Tony Bush, Janine Bush Ganska, Shannon Gates Dempster, Heather Gates Bourdeau; and nine great-grandchildren, James Yocum, Evie Yocum, Dillon Kilmer, Alexia Kilmer, Logan Kilmer, Ella Bourdeau, Tristan Bourdeau, Michael Ganska and Owen Ganska; and a brother, Claude Gates.
Donations in memory of Paul may be made to St. Jude’s Research Hospital, Box 3704, Memphis TN 38103.
Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.
Sally Besaw
Sally J. Besaw, age 63, passed away on April 15, 2019 surrounded by her loving family.
Calling hours will be held at French Funeral Home in Gouverneur on Monday, April 22, 2019 from 5 – 8 p.m. Her funeral Mass will be held at St. James Catholic Church on Tuesday, April 23rd at 11:00a.m. Burial will follow in the New St. James Cemetery.
Sally was born on March 13, 1956 in Manchester, CT to the late James “Jim” Courts and Alice Ann (Campany) Courts Perry. Her grandparents founded the Croghan Meat Market and Croghan Bologna. She attended the St. James School through the eighth grade and graduated from the Gouverneur Central School in 1974.
Sally married Joe Besaw on September 6, 1975 at the St. James Church. The couple have lived in Naples, FL where Sally had many friends, Palmyra, Gouverneur and Sylvia Lake. Sally worked as a Teacher’s Aid for the Gouverneur Central School, loved to watch her special grandkids and helped her husband run his construction business, Besaw Construction. She also enjoyed boating and time spent on Sylvia Lake.
Her survivors include her husband, Joe Besaw of Gouverneur; son Jason and Leah Besaw of Victor; daughter, Sara and Derek Breckenridge of Gouverneur; sister, Peggy Garrett of Naples, FL; and brothers, Steve and Patsy Courts of Amarillo, TX and Joe and Lori Courts of Raleigh, NC. She is also survived by grandchildren, Anna, Christian and Lucy; and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents Sally is predeceased by a brother, Larry Courts.
In lieu of flowers please make donations in memory of Sally to the St. James School Fund, 20 South Gordon Street, Gouverneur NY 13642 or to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, PO Box 3704, Memphis TN 38103. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.
Harry Parow
Harry W. Parow, age 61, of Gouverneur, passed away on April 10, 2019 at the Samaritan Medical Center in Watertown.
Calling hours were held at French Funeral Home in Gouverneur on Friday, April 12, 2019 from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. and on Saturday from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. immediately followed by his funeral service at 12:00 p.m. Burial will be in the Fairview Cemetery in Edwards.
Harry was born on January 8, 1958 in Gouverneur to the late Dennis W. and Roberta A. (Brown) Parow. He graduated from Gouverneur Central School in 1976.
He worked with his father on the family farm (Elm Grove Farm) from 1976 until buying the business in 1993. He operated the farm until selling his cattle in November of 2016. Since December of 2016 Harry has been a home delivery driver for Kinney Drugs Store #34.
Harry was a past Director of the Gouverneur Co-op Association, the Eastern Breeder’s Association, and the St. Lawrence Valley Bulk Milk Producers Co-op, former member of the Kool Kearney Kats 4H Club and Gouverneur FFA; He is the current President of the St. Lawrence County Holstein Club and St. Lawrence County Fair, and is a Director and Life Member of the Gouverneur Fair. He enjoyed spending many, many hours year-round preparing for the Fair. In years past Harry was the manager of the local softball league and bowled on several teams. After selling his cattle, Harry found enjoyment in visiting the casino.
He is survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Sara and Jeff Platt of Gouverneur.
Donations in Harry’s memory may be made to the Gouverneur St. Lawrence County Fair, 85 East Barney Street, Gouverneur NY 13642. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.
Brian J. Langtry
Brian J. Langtry, age 53, formerly of Gouverneur, passed away unexpectedly on April 2, 2019.
There will be calling hours held at the Gouverneur Community Center on Saturday, April 6, 2019 from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. followed by a Memorial Service at 6:00 p.m. There will be a reception held at the Community Center after the service.
Brian was born on March 2, 1966 in Gouverneur to Ida Rose (Manzolati) Langtry and the late John Alfred Langtry. Brian graduated from Gouverneur Central School in 1984, earned his Associates degree in Criminal Justice from Canton ATC, was a member of the Delta Kappa Sigma fraternity, and earned his Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Empire State College.
Brian served in the Army Corps of Engineers through the ROTC and Reserves where he reached the rank of Captain. He worked as a Corrections Officer until joining the NYS Trooper Academy in October of 1990. Brian served in the New York State police for 20 years where he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant and worked for nearly a decade as a BCI Investigator. He was 9/11 first responder.
After his retirement, Brian worked as a NYS Certified Insurance Adjuster and a Substitute Teacher for the Campbell-Savona and the Maine-Endwell High Schools.
Brian enjoyed hunting, trivia, history, Star Trek, musicals, skiing, exercising, travelling, camping, cooking, Pink Floyd, and being in nature. He was a member of the S&B Hunting Club and the Silver Hill Hunting Club.
Brian was married to Kristy Langtry. The marriage resulted in his three children; Joshua Langtry of Portland, ME, Hannah Lee Langtry of Corning, NY, and Jakob “Jak” Langtry of Corning, NY. Brian is also survived by his mother, Ida Langtry of Gouverneur, sister, Lori-Anne McCormick and her husband, Michael of Gouverneur, brother, Thomas C. Langtry of Gouverneur, and his nieces, Lindsey and Danielle McCormick of Edwards.
Donations in memory of Brian may be made to the National Association for Children of Addiction at https://nacoa.org/ Arrangements are with French Funeral Home in Gouverneur. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.
Shirley A. Weatherup
Shirley A. Weatherup, 83, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, April 9th, 2019. Formerly of 2 Kilkarney Court Dr., Hailesboro NY, she had resided at Bishop Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, Syracuse since August 2018.
Shirley was born on December 19, 1935 in Belleville, NY to Donald Albert and Margaret Elizabeth Phillips Krum.
She graduated from Gouverneur High School in June of 1954 and married Robert A. Bigarel July 31, 1954. Robert died November 3, 1958, and a marriage to Dale O. Weatherup ended in divorce.
She is survived by two daughters Deborah Mashaw of Ontario, NY, Denise (Tony) Landphere of Liverpool, NY, two sons Douglas J Weatherup of New Smyrna Beach, FL and David Bigarel of North Syracuse, NY. Shirley has two grandchildren, Lucas and Cassandra Mashaw and eight great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her father Donald on April 30, 1973, her mother Margaret on November 2, 2005, her sister Joan Lovely on April 8, 1995, and her brother Fred on April 1, 2011.
She was a member of Gouverneur Marble City Chapter 92 Order of the Eastern Star from 1959 to December 31, 2005.
Calling hours will be on Thursday, April 11, 2019 from 12 - 1 pm at Green Funeral Home, 33 Park St, Gouverneur, NY with a private burial service at Hailesboro Cemetery.
Donations may be made to the Gouverneur Volunteer Rescue Squad, PO Box 164, Gouverneur, NY 13642.
Edward William Cousino Jr.
Edward William Cousino Jr., age 59, of Gouverneur, passed away on Monday, April 1, 2019 at Upstate Medical Hospital in Syracuse with his family by his side.
He was a kind, caring, and family orientated man, devoted to his children and grandchildren. If you needed a favor, he would extend his helping hand, no question asked. He was a devoted friend, father and grandfather. He will be deeply missed.
Edward was born on May 19, 1959 in Canton, NY to the late Edward and Harriett (Boshane) Cousino. He attended Gouverneur Central School and then in 1979, he entered into the United States Navy and served until his honorable discharge in 1981. A marriage ended in divorce. Edward had an extensive employment history. His last place of employment was a Bus Driver for First Student at the Gouverneur Central School District until he sustained an injury and could no longer work. He enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, and his friends. He loved playing guitar and going to the legion to play darts. He was an active member of the American Legion.
He leaves behind five children, Edward Cousino III of East Hampton, MA, Kimberly Miles, Kaira Cousino, Caesy Cousino and Scott and Shelby Cousino all of Gouverneur, and Kaira Cousino and her boyfriend PJ Fuller of Fowler. He also leaves behind four grandchildren, Kaleb Cousino, Brayson Miles, Meneka Cousino and Rayden Cousino; three brothers, Anthony and Roxanne of Gouverneur, Rodney of Rockford, IL and Floyd Cousino and his girlfriend Gail Wylie of Gouverneur; two sisters, Annette and Joe Collett of East Hampton, MA, Charlotte and Wayne Beldock of Lisbon, and several nieces and nephews.
Edward is predeceased by his parents; a brother, Timothy Cousino and a sister, Joyce Wilson.
There will be calling hours for Edward on Tuesday, April 9, 2019 from 10:00am-12:00pm at French Funeral Home, Gouverneur. His funeral will immediately follow at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday at the funeral home with Rev. Elizabeth Quick officiating. Burial with military honors will follow at East Riverside Cemetery. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.
James William Sawyer
James William Sawyer, age 72, of Richville, passed away on April 2, 2019 at home under the care of his family and hospice.
There will be no calling hours or funeral service. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home in Gouverneur. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.
James was born on June 16, 1946 in Gouverneur to the late Cecil and Loretta (Blair) Sawyer. He graduated from Gouverneur Central School in 1964 and married Sharon Pernice on April 29, 1967 at the Gouverneur Baptist Church.
Mr. Sawyer had worked for the St. Joe Mineral Corporation before working for the Natural Dam Paper Mill. He retired from the paper mill in 2007 as the Purchasing/Shipping Manager.
In his free time James enjoyed golfing, hunting, fishing, bowling and watching NASCAR.
His survivors include his wife, Sharon Sawyer of Richville, daughters, Jennifer Lynne Sawyer of Gouverneur, Danyelle McAdam of Gouverneur; brothers, Thomas and Randy Sawyer; sisters, Sally Hughto, Patti Ramirez, Peggy Gaumes; and grandchildren, Damin, Kayla, Patrick, Brandon and Gavin.
He is predeceased by his parents and his son, Shawn Sawyer.
Donations in memory of James may be made to the Emerald Greens Golf Course, Shriners, or the American Cancer Society.
Ruth E. Reynolds
Ruth E. Reynolds, 89, passed away on Sunday, March 24, 2019 at her home under the care of family and Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s.
A graveside service will be held in the Spring in Riverside Cemetery, Gouverneur with the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur.
Ruth was born in Gouverneur on July 28, 1929, the daughter of Everett and Bessie (Stone) Peck.
She graduated from Gouverneur High School and attended the Watertown School of Commerce.
Ruth married Welby N. Reynolds on June 16, 1951 in Gouverneur.
Her husband passed away just 6 weeks ago and now they are together again. Throughout their last years, Welby and Ruth were fortunate to have their daughter Susie and a special care giver Robyn, so they could remain at home.
Ruth was employed by Senator Paul Graves after graduation until her marriage, and the couple then purchased their farm just outside of Gouverneur on Old Route 58 North. She and Welby raised their family on the farm until it was sold to their son Matthew in 1987.
The couple enjoyed riding motorcycles and taking the family downhill skiing. Ruth also enjoyed riding her bicycle, running, gardening, and was known as an excellent seamstress and for quilt making.
Ruth enjoyed her grandchildren as they would congregate at the farm on weekends and have extended stays during the Summer months. She was a loving Mom and Grandmother, known for a great attitude, good hugs and a nurturing spirit. The grandkids might highlight the many trips to the Dollar Store with Grandma the red sports car.
She is survived by her six children Scott Reynolds of Gulfport, FL, Joel Welby and Kay Reynolds of Williston, VT, Susan Sorrell of Columbia, SC, Randy and Beth Reynolds of Sheldon, VT, Gregg and Nancy (Tovey) Reynolds of Williston, VT, Matthew Reynolds of Gouverneur, several grandchildren and great grandchildren. Ruth is also survived by her sister Marjorie Hughes of Brownville and many nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her husband, her parents, and her brothers Richard Peck and Kenley Peck.
Memorial donations in Ruth's memory are encouraged to Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley, 6805 US Hwy 11, Potsdam, NY 13676.
Anna M. McCollum
Anna M. McCollum, age 85, of South Edwards, passed away on April 2, 2019 at the Canton-Potsdam Hospital.
Anna was born on August 31, 1933 in Dickinson Center, NY to the late Frederick J. and Mary L. (Lamora) Clookey. She graduated from Potsdam Central School. On September 23, 1951, she married Glenn R. McCollum at the Pitcairn Wesleyan Church with Rev. Elwin Putney officiating. Glenn passed away on December 28, 2012.
Anna had worked as a nurses’ aid at Clifton-Fine Hospital and then became a teachers’ aid at Edwards Central School. She was a member of the South Edwards United Methodist Church. She was well known for her delicious donuts, pies and bread that she donated for years to the South Edwards Methodist Church and Community Center fundraisers. She also enjoyed knitting, crocheting, sewing and quilt making for her family and also donating her work to fundraisers. And, she loved spending time with her grandchildren.
Surviving is a son and daughter-in-law, Glenn “Butch” and Dawn McCollum; four grandchildren, Sara Wright, Delmer McCollum, Amber Keeling and Lacey Folsom and five great grandchildren, Bryant and Andrew McCollum, Brayden and Dylan Keeling and Brooke Folsom; and a son-in-law, Roger Folsom.
Anna is predeceased by her parents; her husband, Glenn; a daughter, Glenna A. Folsom and several brothers and sisters.
There will be a graveside service for Anna at a later date at the Gates Cemetery in South Edwards. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home, Edwards. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.
Sherrill D Lashbrooks
Sherrill "Sherry" D. Lashbrooks, 72, of Gouverneur passed away Monday, March 25 with her loving husband and family by her side.
Sherry was born October 21, 1946 in Gouverneur to Albert and Phila Porter Prashaw. Sherry attended Gouverneur Central Schools.
She married Wayne Lashbrooks on February 9, 1963 at the Church of Nazarene with Rev. Shaw officiating.
Sherry owned and operated Sherry's House of Crafts.
Sherry enjoyed traveling, reading, crafts and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren.
She is survived by her husband Wayne, a son Robert and his wife Jeannette Lashbrooks, a daughter Nicole Lashbrooks Shippee, grandchildren Kyle Lashbrooks, Miranda and David Rohe, Alec Shippee, great grandchildren Jaxen and Mireya Rohe, a sister Roxanne Serviss, all of Gouverneur, and several nieces and nephews.
Sherry is predeceased by her parents, a daughter Laura, a son in law William "Billy" Shippee and a sister Sandra Godfrey.
There will be a celebration of life for Sherry on Sunday, April 7, 2019 at VFW in Gouverneur at 1:00 p.m.
Memorial donations in Sherry's memory may be made to Ryan's Wish Foundation, P.O. Box 326, Gouverneur, NY 13642.
Pauline Fleming
Pauline Fleming, 98, formerly of Brasie Corners, passed away on Tuesday, March 12, 2019 in Webster.
Calling hours were held at French Funeral Home in Gouverneur on Monday, March 18, 2019 from 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. Graveside service followed at 3:00 p.m. in Pleasant Lake Cemetery, Brasie Corners. A buffet was held at Mullins in Gouverneur at 4:00 p.m. for friends and family.
Pauline was born June 24, 1920 in Oswegatchie. Parents were Archibald and Grace (Clute) Lawyer. She graduated from Morristown Central School in 1938.
Pauline married Kenneth Fleming on October 17, 1942 at the Gouverneur First Presbyterian Parsonage by Rev. Schofield. Kenneth passed away April 16, 2009. Pauline was an honorary member of the Macomb Grange and had served as a Civil Defense Aircraft Spotter during WWII. Pauline and Kenneth were dairy farmers in Macomb for many years. She was a homemaker, great mom and beloved grandma/great-grandma. She had a green thumb and enjoyed gardening. She loved reading, doing crossword puzzles, and playing cards and Scrabble.
Survivors include her daughters, Sharon Lane (Webster), Sally Hofmeister (Colorado), Paula Fleming (Clay), Bethany and Timothy Brown (Webster); grandchildren, Michael, Laurie, Kelly Christopher, Amy, Kim and Katie; nine great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Pauline is predeceased by her husband, Kenneth; brothers, Harvey and Glendon Lawyer; sisters, Jennie Condlin, Delia Simpson, Frances Austin, and Ruth Taylor; and sons-in-law, Dr. John Hofmeister and Dennis Lane.
Donations in memory of Pauline may be made to the Pleasant Lake Cemetery Association 6663 State Hwy 58, Hammond NY 13646. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.
Dale I. Bush
Dale I. Bush, 76, passed away on Tuesday, March 5, 2019 at his home under the care of his family and Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley.
A funeral mass was held on Saturday, March 9th at 11:00 am at St. James Catholic Church, Gouverneur with Fr. Shane Lynch officiating and burial to take place in the spring in New St. James Cemetery, Gouverneur. Calling hours were on Friday from 1:00 to 3:00 & 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur.
Dale was born on February 24, 1943 in Gouverneur, NY, the son of Alton S. Bush and Margaret L. Jones Bush. Dale graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1961 and from Canton ATI in 1963, with a degree in Agri-Business. After college, he joined the United States Army Reserves.
Mr. Bush began his career at Agway in Syracuse in 1964 as a manager/trainee. He married Kathryn Randall on April 30, 1966 at St. James Church in Gouverneur. They moved to several different states, returning to Gouverneur in 1972 and purchased his grandparents' farm on the Welch Road. He worked for Agway, Augsbury, and Atlantic/Ultramar until he started his own business, D.I. Bush Fuels Inc. in 1982.
Dale was an active member of St. James Catholic Church in Gouverneur where he was a Eucharistic Minister, Parish Council member, 20-year Kiwanis member, 15-year trustee of E.J. Noble Hospital board of directors, advisor/board member of Gouverneur Community Bank, advisory board member for St. Lawrence/Lewis County BOCES, and a member of the board of directors of Cambray Housing. In 2003, Dale and Kay were named Citizens of the Year by the Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce.
He enjoyed spending time with his family, his beef cows, golfing, collecting tractors, trips to the casino, bowling, singing and dancing.
Mr. Bush is survived by one son, Michael (Tricia) Bush, of Gouverneur, three daughters, Patti (Jim) Besaw of Central Square, Maureen (Alvin) Moore of Florence, South Carolina, and Teresa (Jim) Minckler of Gouverneur, two brothers Phillip (MaryBeth) Bush of Gouverneur and David (Laurie) Bush of Gouverneur, one sister Marilyn (Bill) Sapila, of Lansing, Michigan, seven grandchildren Taylor Besaw, Morgan Bush, Nate Besaw, Emily Bush, Madison Besaw, JD Minckler, Paul Minckler, and several nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by a son Dale Irving Jr. in 1973, his father Alton in 1987, his mother Margaret in 1999, and his wife Kay in 2012.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley, 6805 US Highway 11, Potsdam, NY 13676 or St. James Church, 164 E. Main Street, Gouverneur, NY 13642.