Desiree' “Jaymie” Bales

Desiree' “Jaymie” Bales, 53, passed away on Thursday, December 5, 2019, at her home in Clay Center, Nebraska, with her husband by her side.

At her request, there will be no calling hours or services.

Desiree was born on July 23, 1967 in Gouverneur, New York, the daughter of Howard “Jim” Smith and Connie Rice. She graduated from Gouverneur Central School in 1979, and later married Harold Crowner. The marriage ended in divorce.

She moved to Syracuse to work. She met Chris Bales and in 2007, they were married. She traveled around the country with him, wherever his work took him. He is a heavy equipment and crane operator for Commercial Construction. In 2012, they bought a small farm in Nebraska.

Jaymie is a member of the First Methodist Church of Gouverneur, and a life member of the VFW Auxiliary 6338 of Gouverneur, N.Y.

She enjoyed the outdoors and loved her animals. She has two cats and three dogs. Jaymie has worked with rescued, abused horses and was in the processes of getting two of her own. She was also a great football fan of the Nebraska Huskers and the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Desiree' “Jaymie” is survived by her husband, Chris Bales, daughter Samantha Rennie and husband, her son Jonathon Crowner, two step-children, Mason and Cassidy Bales of Utah, her adopted sister, Michelle Gotart of Hastings, Nebraska, granddaughter Dudley Rennie, as well as her mother, Connie Rice. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

Desiree' is predeceased by her father, a brother, Douglas, and sister-in-law, Pricilla Smith, maternal grandparents, Blanche Ingram and Robert Rice, Sr.

Memorial Donations may be made to your own charity or to the American Cancer Society.

Barbara Appleby

Barbara Appleby, 92, formerly of Gouverneur, passed away on Tuesday, December 10, 2019 in Watertown.

A graveside service will be announced in the spring for East Riverside Cemetery, Gouverneur. Arrangements are with the Green Funeral Home in Gouverneur.

Barbara was born in Chateaugay on May 23, 1927, the daughter of Henry and Laura Copps Barnes.

She married Robert M. Appleby on October 16, 1954 in Chateaugay and the couple moved to Antwerp, then to Gouverneur. Barbara worked at Kinney Drugs, and later at the Gouverneur Savings and Loan from which she retired in 1987.

The couple resided in the north country much of their lives. Upon retiring, they moved to Maine and later returned to Fowler, Black Lake and most recently to Adams.

Barbara enjoyed baking, crocheting, embroidery, reading, and spending time with her family, especially her great grandchildren.

Mr. Appleby, a retired banker, passed away on January 1, 2018.

Barbara is survived by her son Brian and wife, Jean Appleby of Adams, her daughter Bonnie and husband, Ted Drummond of Unity, Maine, and daughter in law Donna Barnes of Chateaugay and 7 grandchildren Kelly Barnes of Arizona, Nicky Bogart of Albany, Jenna Drummond of Portsmouth, RI, Cassie Drummond of Manchester, NH, Jonathan Appleby of Binghamton, Mark Appleby of Watertown, and Megan Abbott of Adams, 7 great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her husband Robert, son Barry Barnes of Chateaugay and her parents.

Memorial donations in Barbara's memory are encouraged to the Gouverneur First Presbyterian Church, 22 Church Street, Gouverneur, NY 13642.

John G. “Mike” Reilly

John G. "Mike" Reilly, 94, of Gouverneur passed away on Friday, December 6, 2019, at Gouverneur Hospital.

A funeral mass was held on Monday, December 9, at 11 a.m. at St. James Church, Gouverneur, with Fr. Shane Lynch officiating; a spring burial will be held in New St. James Cemetery, Gouverneur. Calling hours were on Sunday from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur.

Mike was born on December 2, 1925, in Pachuca, Mexico, the son of John and Ursula Reilly.

Mike attended the Culver Military Academy of Indiana, graduating in 1943. He served our nation during World War II in the United States Marine Corps. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Mining and Metallurgy from the University of Missouri School of Mines at Rolla.

After college, he was employed with the St. Joe Lead/Mineral Co. in Bonne Terre, Missouri, where he met Anna Marie Seitz. Mike and Anna were married on January 8, 1950.

In 1953, they moved to Edwards and eventually to Balmat, and the family grew steadily. Mike worked with St. Joe and Fluor until his retirement in 1986. The family moved to their current residence just outside Gouverneur in 1966.

Mike provided for his family of seven children and was a faithful member of St. James Catholic Church. He served as Cub Scout leader, Pee Wee baseball coach and director at the Gouverneur Country Club, where he played golf for over 60 years. He also enjoyed geology, stamp collecting, and, on his retirement, bowling at the Gouverneur Bowl, where he earned the moniker “Strikin’ Mike” for rolling a 287, 12-strike game at the age of 87.

Mike and Anna were avid members of the McDonald's “coffee club.”

Mike was always finding ways to help people. He was generous in his financial support of St. James School and Church, Gouverneur Library, the Gouverneur Foundation, Gouverneur Hospital Auxiliary, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, Culver, American Red Cross, Alzheimer’s Association, and many other organizations.

Mike is survived by his children, Gay Reilly of West Virginia, John Reilly of Georgia, Mary Reilly of Saratoga Springs, Peter Reilly of Newfield, Joe and Annie Reilly of Canton, Cindy Gadbaw of Canton, Tom and Danta Reilly of Virginia; his grandchildren Patrick Reilly, Michael Reilly, Katie Gadbaw and Alex, Ian Gadbaw, Frank Reilly, and Danny Reilly; and great-grandchildren Anna and Lily. He is also survived by a brother, Philip Reilly of Florida, a sister, Miriam Jupp of California, nieces and nephews. Mike is predeceased by his wife Anna, his parents, and his son-in-law Randy Gadbaw.

In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested donations be made to the Gouverneur Vol. Rescue Squad, PO Box 164, Gouverneur, NY 13642.

Lauren Buys Shuman

Lauren Buys Shuman, age 73, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 30, 2019 at home in Ocala, Florida. She was surrounded by family and the love of friends near and far.

Laurie was born in Canton, New York on February 28, 1946 to Doris (Fonda) and John Buys. She grew up in Canton where she graduated from Hugh C. Williams High School, earned a B.S. in Elementary Education from Syracuse University in 1968 and an M.S. in Elementary Education from SUNY Potsdam in 1976. Laurie continued her education, earning an M.S. in Special Education Administration from the College of Saint Rose in 1988 and certification as a school superintendent in 2002 through St. Lawrence University. She spent her entire career in education, teaching both elementary and special education students, and eventually serving for over ten years as Principal of West Side Elementary School in Gouverneur – where she was loved by students and teachers alike for her warm, fun, and welcoming personality. Following retirement from that position, she supervised student teachers for St. Lawrence University and served as an interim school administrator in Morristown CSD and Edwards-Knox CSD. When not in the schools, Laurie spent years teaching English to refugees from war-torn countries, including a Cambodian family that lived with her own family for a time.

Laurie was deeply spiritual. Together with her husband James Shuman, she was ordained as an Interfaith Minister through the New Seminary in New York City in 2000. She and Jim officiated many weddings (including several of their own children’s) and other ceremonies. Through a lifetime of spiritual growth, Laurie touched many lives not only in her native Canton but across the US in her church activities, fellowships, retreats, and ceremonies.

Laurie is survived by her beloved husband of 23 years, James Shuman, her children John Holena, Daniel Holena, and Elizabeth Holena (Richard Holena); her stepsons Ryan Shuman and Corey Shuman; and her beloved nieces and nephews Richard Buys, Robert Buys, Barbara Buys, Kathy Buys, Andrea (Stauble) Speare, Candi (Capozzi) Jones, Kathy Agee, Lindy Agee, Debbie (Agee) Hardin, and Tammy Agee-Acosta. Also graced with the memory of their grandmother are her many loving grandchildren: Agnes, Jasper, Elliot, and Eloise (John); Henry and William (Daniel); Eva and Wolfgang (Elizabeth); Sylvie and Shea (Ryan). Preceding Laurie in passing were her beloved parents, as well as her brother Norman Buys and sisters Janice (Buys) Capozzi, and Marilyn (Buys) Agee.

Those who were blessed with knowing Laurie will remember her beautiful smile, her sparkling blue eyes, and her fun and colorful hair. They will recall the patience and love she poured into making beautiful quilts and knitting projects for family and friends. They will remember her deep connection to family, especially her grandchildren and of course, her cats. And all will carry within them her kind and gentle spirit.

Plans are being made for a celebration of Laurie’s life for spring/summer of 2020 in Canton, NY. Please visit https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/laurieshuman for updates. Memorial contributions in Laurie’s name can made to Hospice and Palliative Care of the St. Lawrence Valley (www.hospiceslv.org) or to the One Spirit Learning Alliance in New York City (www.1spirit.org).

John T. Kitchin

John T. Kitchin, 52, formerly of Gouverneur, passed away on Thursday, December 5, 2019.

A funeral mass was held on Tuesday, December 10 at 11:00 am at St. James Catholic Church, Gouverneur and burial in the spring in New St. James Cemetery, Gouverneur. Calling hours were held on Monday from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur.

John was born in Ogdensburg on June 9, 1967, the son of Donald and Dawn (Yager) Kitchin.

He graduated from Gouverneur High School and had worked at the St. Lawrence NYSARC workshop in Hermon until it's closing.

John is survived by his sisters Beth Johnson of Gouverneur, Susan and Jeff Koehn of Canandaigua, Jacqueline and Kurt Koepf of Mt. Dora, FL, Mary Kitchin and David Shoen of Jamestown, many nieces and nephews. John is also survived by his 82 Main Street, Hermon family as well as his caregivers of St. Lawrence NYSARC whom he loved dearly.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in memory of John are encouraged to St. James School or St. James Church, 164 E. Main Street, Gouverneur, NY 13642.

Lacey L. Jones

Lacey L. Jones, age 88, of Gouverneur, passed away on October 30, 2019 at the Gouverneur Hospital with his wife by his side.

Lacey L. Jones was born in Vestal, N.Y. on October 4, 1931. He was the son of Leland L. Jones and Estella T. Harrington Jones. He graduated from Vestal Central High School in 1949, where he was the first wrestling section winner from Vestal. He then attended Springfield College in Springfield Massachusetts, receiving a scholarship honors in 1954 with physical education major and a minor in biology. Then he went to Penn State University in 1955 on a graduate fellowship, receiving his Master’s in education.

From 1955-56 he worked at Ogdensburg Free Academy, teaching general science and health. There he was the assistant varsity football coach and started the wrestling program.

In 1957, he moved to Gouverneur and became the assistant varsity football coach, varsity wrestling coach and physical education teacher.

Over the years, Lacey also coached track, cross country, golf and his passion, wrestling, from 1957-1975 and again from 1979-1981, compiling an overall record of 253-41-5.

During his three-year hiatus from Gouverneur, he was assistant wrestling coach at St. Lawrence University. He was inducted into the New York High School Wrestling Hall of Fame in 1993, the National Wrestling Hall of Fame in Stillwater, Oklahoma in 2000 and the Gouverneur High School Wall of fame in 2011.

Lacey instructed in wrestling summer clinics in New England and in New York for 22 years.

He retired from teaching and coaching in 1992, after 37 years.

The Watertown Daily Times referred to him as “Dean of North Country Wrestling Coaches”.

In 2013 Lacey was honored at the North Country Wrestling Tournament in Gouverneur that he started in 1970.

Family time was spent accompanying him at the summer wrestling clinics, camping in the Adirondacks and then 41 years at their cottages at Lake Clear and then Kiwassa Lake.

After retirement, Lacey and his wife Shirley moved to Kiwassa Lake summers and spent the winter months in Lake Placid. He volunteered with the rescue boat for the 90 Miler Canoe Race from Old Forge to Saranac Lake for nine years. Their greatest joy was sharing their Adirondack Homes with family and friends. The couple returned to Gouverneur in 2005.

Lacey married his high school sweetheart, Shirley R. Burgess in August of 1953. They celebrated their 50th anniversary with their children and their families in 2003 in the Adirondacks.

Lacey is survived by a daughter, Chris (David) Middlemore of Baldwinsville, NY; Granddaughter Lacey (William) Pickett, great granddaughters Teagan and identical twins Harper and Henley of Rural Retreat, VA; Grandson Charles (Violeta) Duggan and great grandson Nolan of Roanoke, VA; Granddaughter Jennifer (Michael) Wells and great granddaughter Aubrey and Emma of Baldwinsville, NY; Grandson David Middlemore (Tara Pickard) of Fulton, NY; Son, Leland Jones (Dena King) and granddaughter Murilla King of Taos, NM; Son, Scott Jones (George Pinney) of Pittsfield, MA; sisters Sandra Roth of Vestal, NY and Louellen Jones of Sauquoit, NY and several nieces and nephews and their families. Sisters-in-law, Elaine Johnson of Endicott, NY and Ila Jean Popple of Gainsville, FL.

Lacey is predeceased by his parents, Estella and Leland Jones, sisters. Katherine Loveless, Rheba Andrews, Doris Bidwell and Gayle Goodwin and brothers, Bruce and Keith Jones.

There will be no calling hours or funeral service at the request of Lacey. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home, Gouverneur.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to your local Hospice. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com. Cards are encouraged to be sent to Shirley at 56 Valley Drive, Gouverneur NY 13642.

Phyllis A. Denesha

Phyllis A. Denesha passed away peacefully with family by her side at her residence in Black Creek, Wisconsin on Wednesday, October 30, 2019. She was busy celebrating her 57th - 26th (83rd) birthday when the Lord called her home. She was and amazing woman who maintained her quick wit and sense of humor through her long illness.

Phyllis was born October 30, 1936, in Fine, N.Y. She was the second of five children born to Lloyd and Minnie (Johnson) Fenton. She was united in marriage with the love of her life Vernon B. Denesha on February 4th, 1956. Together they raised three children and shared 62 wonderful years of marriage.

Phyllis was employed as a certified teacher’s assistant for over 23 years at Clifton-Fine Central School Star Lake, New York. She loved working with children and was proud of her positive impact in the education of multiple generations of students.

Phyllis was an avid quilter and seamstress. She enjoyed sharing her talents and the fruits of her labors with others. All of her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren received a special handmade quilted gift for their special occasions.

Phyllis is survived by her daughters: Catherine J. (Todd) LaFrance, Leanne K. (John J.) Mazuroski, grandchildren: Nicole (Russell) Koster, Lindsey LaFrance, Kaylee (Travis) Nelson, Cari (James) Deon, Tori LaFrance, John V. (Kendra) Mazuroski, and Cameron (Victoria) LaFrance; and thirteen great-grandchildren. Phyllis is survived by her sisters: Beverly Besaw, Maryalyce Perrault and Kim Yaeger.

Phyllis was a member of The Fine Home Bureau and was active in the preservation and restoration of the Fine Town Hall.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her husband, Vernon (April 2018); parents, Lloyd and Minnie Fenton; brother Bert Fenton; a son, Carl B. Denesha, and great-granddaughter, Olivia Marie Nelson.

A celebration of Phyllis’s life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers please send donations in Phyllis’s memory to: ThedaCare Foundation Appleton (Hospice), 1818 North Meade Street, Appleton, WI 54911.

Muehl-Boettcher Funeral Home in Seymour is assisting the family with arrangements. Online Condolences can be expressed to Phyllis’s family at www.muehlboettcher.com

Ronald W. Taylor

Ronald W. Taylor, age 72, of Russell and formerly of Gouverneur, passed away on November 4, 2019 at the Claxton-Hepburn Hospital in Ogdensburg.

There will be a memorial service held at French Funeral Home in Gouverneur on Friday, November 8, 2019 at 1:30 p.m. Burial will follow in Riverside Cemetery. There will be no calling hours.

Ron was born on October 19, 1947 in Decatur, IL to the late Clifton and Betty (Hawkins) Taylor. He graduated from Eisenhower High School in Decatur in 1965. Ron worked for Caterpillar Inc. for 30 years before his retirement. He moved to Gouverneur in 1996 and worked as the Superintendent of the Gouverneur Cemetery Association beginning in 2002, tended bar at the Clearview, and worked part-time as a funeral attendant and driver for French Funeral Home.

Ron enjoyed gardening, raising chickens and puttering. He always had a project going and had many others in the planning stages. He loved spending time with family and reminiscing.

He is survived by the love of his life, Linda Devore and her family, Josh, Julie, Mark, Alice, Little Mark, Davey, Jesse, Jadelynn and Jarrett; his brother, Kevin Taylor; his son, Troy Taylor; his daughter, Natasha and Kristopher Matthie and their children, Aria, Parker and one on the way; and his step-son, Zackary Kelley.

Donations in Ron’s memory may be made to the Gouverneur Cemetery Association, PO Box 29, Gouverneur NY 13642. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Gerald E. Hayden

Gerald “Chubby” E. Hayden, age 62, of Fishers, Indiana, but formerly of Gouverneur, passed away on Wednesday, October 9, 2019 in Indiana.

There will be a graveside service for Gerald on Saturday, October 19, 2019 at 11 a.m. at Hailesboro Cemetery. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Gerald was born on October 19, 1956 in Gouverneur to the late Gerald D. and Mary Louise (Rice) Hayden. He graduated from Gouverneur Central School in 1975.

Gerald worked as a heavy equipment operator for Cooks Sand and Gravel. He was a member of the Gold Wing Riders Association. He enjoyed riding motorcycles, hunting and fishing. He loved technology and radio-controlled gadgets and putting together pop cycle stick models, but most of all he loved spending time with his family.

Surviving is his long time companion, Nichole Smith of Fishers, IN; former spouse, GiGi Hayden of Oswegatchie, N.Y.; two sons and their wives, Brandon and Elizabeth Hayden of Massena and Brady and Sarah Hayden of Gouverneur; a step daughter, Yvonne Smith of Fishers, IN; a brother, Wayne and Sally Hayden; two sisters, Sally and Lyndon Fuller and Joanne Feimann and a grandson, Elijah Hayden.

The family would like any donations in Gerald’s memory to be made to his companion, Nichole Smith, 11389 Songbird Lane, Fishers, IN 46038.

Together Again: Fredric Denzil Loucks & Gloria Jean Loucks

Fredric Denzil Loucks, 74, of Windham, Ohio passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on June 27, 2019.

He was born on March 31, 1945 in Richville, to Howard and Janice (Jenkins) Loucks.

He graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1963. Fredric married the love of his life, Gloria Cornell, on August 28, 1964 at the Methodist Church in Gouverneur.

He enjoyed camping, hunting, fishing and playing softball with the Woodside Rompers. Fredric loved to dance and spend time with his family.

Fredric was survived by his wife, Gloria; children, Sean (Tiffany) Loucks of Ravenna, Crystal (James) Ward of Windham and Dawn Loucks of Windham; grandchildren, Joshua (Andrea) Heil, Jeremy (Megan) Heil, Justin (Cheyenne) Heil, Alyssa (Brian) Bacak, Christopher Garvin, Santana Diliberto, Jonathan Soltis, Chloe Soltis, Olivia Loucks and Sean Loucks; great grandchildren, Jace, Halle, Gabe, Abbigail, Alexavier, Rosaleigh, Aeris, Avery, Bentley and Waylon; siblings, Charles (Carol) Loucks, Linda (Gary) Scott, Jimmy (Rachel) Loucks, Barbara (Randy) Dillman, John Loucks, Connie Kinney and Pam Loucks and many loving nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Richard Loucks and brother in law, Earl Kinney.

Graveside services were at Windham Township Cemetery, Windham, Ohio.

Gloria Jean (Cornell) Loucks, 76, of Windham, Ohio, passed away on September 22, 2019. She was born on June 13, 1943, in Canton, New York, to Richard and Dorothy (Hennigan) Cornell.

She graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1962. She married the love of her life, Frederic Loucks on August 28, 1964 at the Methodist Church in Gouverneur, New York.

Gloria enjoyed crocheting, gardening, and the casino. She loved and cared for her animals but above all she cherished her family especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She will be dearly missed by her loving family, children, Crystal (James) Ward, Dawn Loucks, Sean (Tiffany) Loucks; grandchildren, Joshua (Andrea), Jeremy (Megan), Justin (Cheyenne), Alyssa (Brian), Christopher, Santana, Jonathan, Chloe, Olivia, Sean; great grandchildren, Jace, Halle, Gabe, Abbigail, Alexavier, Rosaleigh, Aeris, Avery, Bentley, Waylon; siblings, Pat Laidlaw, Sandra (John) Sparenga.

She was preceded in death by the love of her life, Fredric Loucks, with whom she was blessed to share 55 years of marriage, and her son Richard “Dickie”.

Burial was at Windham Township Cemetery, Windham, Ohio.

Patrick Steven Fitzgerald

Patrick S. Fitzgerald, 60, of Lexington, North Carolina passed away on October 12, 2019 at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital with his children at his side.

Patrick was born April 13, 1959 in Gouverneur to the late James and Joy (Bulger) Fitzgerald. He attended Gouverneur Central School. Patrick married the love of his life, Cathy, in Richmond, Virginia in 1986. They lived in Virginia, Gouverneur and Texas raising their family.

Patrick worked at an electronic company, Syracuse, Kraft Foods in Canton, and installed security systems in Texas. After the passing of his wife, Pat moved to North Carolina and was employed at Lowes until his recent retirement.

Patrick loved his family, enjoyed music and art. He painted beautiful landscape paintings.

Patrick is survived by his daughters, Brittany and Christopher McNeese, Ashley and Daniel Cawood, and Rachel and Felipe Sifuentes, Texas. A son, Matthew Fitzgerald of North Carolina and seven grandchildren. Two brothers, Michael and Gina Fitzgerald, California, and Joseph and Claressa Fitzgerald of Gouverneur, as well as aunts, uncles, and cousins.

As per his wishes, there are no calling hours or funeral services.

Vernon W. Fuller Sr.

Vernon W. Fuller Sr., age 73, of Hailesboro, passed away on Sunday, October 13, 2019 at his home.

There will be a graveside service on Friday, October 18, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at Hailesboro Cemetery. Arrangements are being handled by French Funeral Home, Gouverneur. Condolences may be shared at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Vernon was born on April 4, 1946 in Gouverneur, to the late John and Ruth (Stevens) Fuller.

He attended Gouverneur Central School and then enlisted into the United States Army, where he served until his honorable discharge.

He married Linda J. Minckler on February 12, 1966 at the Gouverneur Methodist Church with Rev. Stanley Brown officiating. Linda passed away on November 15, 2002.

Vernon retired from Cellu Tissue Papermill in Gouverneur as a maintenance supervisor after working there for 43 years. He enjoyed rebuilding tractors, going to the casinos, but more than anything, he enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and siblings.

Surviving is a son, Vernon W. and Michelle Fuller Jr.; a daughter, Tina J. Fuller and her companion David St. John; a mother-in-law, Evyeline Minckler; five brothers, Lyndon and Sally Fuller, Lyle Fuller, Ralph and Kathy Fuller, Donald “Bim” and Chriss Fuller and John and Kathie Fuller; four sisters, Phyllis Tripp, Charlotte Livingston, Glenda and Wilson Bickford and Janice and Roger Refici; 12 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Vernon is predeceased by his parents, his wife Linda and a grandson, Christopher Fuller, who passed away on June 21, 2019.

Donations may be made in Vernon’s memory to Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley, 6805 US Hwy. 11, Potsdam, NY 13676.

Cass A. Burtis

Cass A. Burtis, 54, passed away on Friday, October 4, 2019 at Riverledge Rehab. and Nursing in Ogdensburg.

A graveside service was held on Monday, October 7 at 1 p.m. at Hermon Cemetery and a pass a dish celebration of life will follow at the Hermon Fire Hall. Arrangements are with the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur.

Cass was born on April 10, 1965 in Gouverneur, the daughter of Robert and Joanne Armes Burtis.

She attended Gouverneur schools and graduated from Knox Memorial School.

Cass had worked in real estate and retail sales and enjoyed shopping, riding motorcycles, and spending time in the outdoors. She also enjoyed spending winters in Florida and donating time to Meals on Wheels.

She is survived by her fiance Darrell Isereau, her son Cayden Burtis of Utah, her mother Joanne and Robert Matott of DeKalb Jct., a brother Eric Burtis of Gouverneur, aunts, uncles, and cousins. She is predeceased by her father.

Memorial donations in Cass’s memory are suggested to Meals on Wheels.

MaryAnne Snyder

MaryAnne Snyder, 72, of Maple Avenue, passed away in the early hours of Monday, September 30, 2019 at Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, with her loving family by her side.

The Snyder and MacTurk family extend their sincerest apology to the Hailesboro/Gouverneur community for not getting MaryAnne MacTurk Snyder’s obituary into the Gouverneur Tribune before now. Many made the trip on Saturday from St. Lawrence County and we’re hopeful that many who wanted to attend MaryAnne’s service, were able to attend. If you were not able to attend, but didn’t know in time or weren’t able to, you can still view her service that was streamed live from MaryAnne MacTurk Snyder’s Facebook page.

MaryAnne was born on June 9, 1947 in Gouverneur, New York, daughter of the late William Thomas and Barbara Jean (Lepper) MacTurk. She lived in Hailesboro, New York, and graduated from Gouverneur High School. She then attended and graduated from the Watertown School of Commerce. She came to live with her Aunt Carolyn and Uncle Charlie Fanning in Copenhagen, to babysit in exchange for room and board while she was attending school.

During this time, she met her sweetheart, Gerald, while he was practicing on the Copenhagen Drill Team. He asked her out for a date, to which she replied that she had to babysit. His response was, “We will bring them right with us!” She knew in that moment that he was a very special man…one that loved children. The couple married on May 17, 1969.

Over the years, she was the Village of Copenhagen Clerk, she worked for Jacob’s Pizza Parlor and she was also employed with Terry Groff Auto Repair and Towing Service.

She worked for several attorneys over the years including Attorney Spicer, Richard Hunt, Renee Renzi, and most recently, she was employed with Legal Aid Society and Legal Services in Watertown, NY.

MaryAnne raised monarch butterflies since she was a little girl in Hailesboro. Raising butterflies was truly her passion in life, having taught many people, young and old, how to properly raise and care for a monarch. Together, she and Gerald have raised over 200 monarch butterflies just this year. She will forever be known as the “Butterfly & Cotton Candy Lady.”

This year will be her 50th year as an active member of the Copenhagen Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary, and she was named the 2019 recipient of the Member of the Year Award. She was also always very supportive of the CCS Golden Knights athletics.

MaryAnne was an active member of the River of Life Fellowship Church. She loved being outdoors, especially watching and feeding the birds and squirrels. She also loved doing puzzles (300-550 pieces especially), playing cards with friends & family (especially Euchre & Euchre tournaments), and watching Reality TV as well as the Syracuse Orangemen. She, of course, cherished her monarch butterflies, usually had a garden of some sort, and lastly, adored being with and traveling with her three beloved children, their spouses, and the five grandchildren.

MaryAnne is survived by her beloved husband of 50 years, Gerald; three children, Melissa J. (Randy) Streeter of Lawrence, Kansas; Mark W. (Jennifer) Snyder of Charlotte, North Carolina; and Greg M. (Jill) Snyder of Seneca Falls, NY; her “son #3,” Kevin Groff of Copenhagen, NY; a brother, David M. (Cindy) MacTurk of LeRoy, NY; an aunt, Carolyn Fanning of Copenhagen, NY; and five grandchildren- Caleb, Eric and Drew Streeter and Zachary and Julie Snyder.

She is predeceased by her sister, Marsha Jean Downs.

Calling hours were held on Saturday, October 5, 2019 from 10a.m. to noon and 1p.m. to 4:30p.m. at the River of Life Fellowship Church in Copenhagen. The Copenhagen Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary met at 4:30 PM and honored MaryAnne for her 50 years of service as well as her nomination for person of the year. The funeral service immediately followed at 5:00 PM at the church with Pastor George Gray officiating.

Memorial donations may be made to River of Life Fellowship Church at PO Box 397, 9871 Number Three Road Copenhagen NY 13626.

Arrangements were handled by Lundy Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Inc.

Thomas W. Brayton

Thomas W. Brayton, age 94, of Edwards, passed away on October 6, 2019 at Clifton-Fine Hospital under the wonderful care of the hospital staff, along with Dr. Carthy.

Thomas was born on September 8, 1925 in Edwards, to the late Mark and Ella (Cole) Brayton. He attended the Pleasant Valley one -oom school house in Edwards and then went to Edwards Central School.

On October 21, 1943 he entered into the United States Army and served until his honorable discharge on January 5, 1946. While in the Army, Thomas served in the 101st. Airborne Screaming Eagles during WWII and the Normandy invasion. During this time, Thomas was shot twice in the head and received the Purple Heart.

He married Florence C. “Flossie” McCullouch on August 25, 1946 at the church in Fine. The couple lived on the Talcville Road in a house that Tom built for them 70 years ago.

Thomas was a construction worker for Rouse Construction and then worked at Riverside Iron Works until his retirement. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge, the VFW and the Operating Engineers. In his free time, Tom was always found tinkering on something.

Surviving is his wife, Florence; two daughters and their husbands, Lucinda and Dehl Wolfers of Canon City, CO and Margo and Brent Wood, E-9USN(RET) of GA. He is also survived by four grandchildren, eight great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

Thomas is predeceased by a brother, Olan Brayton and a sister, Doris Bigarel.

As per his wishes, there will be no calling hours or funeral services. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home, Edwards. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Donations may be made in Thomas’s memory to the Edwards Lions Club.

Julia Ann Versailles, 71

Julia Ann Versailles, 71, of Oxbow, passed away on Sunday, September 29, 2019 at her home, surrounded by her family and under the care of Hospice of Jefferson County.

Calling hours were held on Wednesday, October 2 from 1p.m. to 3 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 3 p.m. at the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur with David Sheppard, pastor of the First Congregational Church of Morristown, officiating and burial in Oxbow Cemetery.

Julia was born at home in Macomb, the daughter of Maurice and Thelma Gordinier Marcellus.

She attended schools in Macomb and Gouverneur.

Julia married Franklin E. Versailles Sr. on February 20, 1965 at the Oxbow Church.

Mr. Versailles passed away on May 6, 2019, not long after celebrating the couple's 54th wedding anniversary.

Julia enjoyed bowling, playing bingo, square dancing, and most of all, spending time with her children and grandchildren. She also enjoyed the outdoors, finding time to hunt, fish, and go camping.

She was one of the first female members of the Oxbow Vol. Fire Department and was the first female to serve as fire police for the Oxbow Department.

Julia is survived by her children Debbie and Don Hicks, Joanne Norsworthy and Billy Law, Jackie and Jim Hartle, Tammy and Rusty Richardson, Frankie and Missy Versailles, Jennifer Brown and Cricket Mandigo, 11 grandchildren, and 17 great grandchildren.

She is also survived by her siblings Maurice Jr. "Sonny" and Elizabeth Marcellus, Larry and Linda Marcellus, Douglas and Debbie Marcellus, Norma DeContie, several nieces and nephews. Julia is predeceased by her parents, a brother Gerald Marcellus and a sister Ruby Commando.

Memorial donations in Julia's memory are encouraged to Hospice of Jefferson County, 1398 Gotham Street, Watertown, NY 13601.

Carlton Force, 93

Carlton Gregory Force, Ph.D., 93, of Apopka, FL passed away on Saturday, September 21, 2019.

He was born August 5, 1926, in Gouverneur, N.Y. to Leon Henry and Christina (Hampton) Force.

The funeral service will be held at French Funeral Home in Gouverneur 3p.m., Friday, September 27, 2019, with Pastor Richard Mayforth officiating. Visiting hours will be Friday, 2p.m. – 3p.m. A burial will follow at the nearby Riverside Cemetery.

Carlton served his country in the U.S. Army at the end of WWII helping our troops return home. He then earned his bachelor of science degree in chemistry from Clarkson College of Technology (Clarkson University) in Potsdam, N.Y.

In 1950 he met his future wife, Rosalie Gotham, while roller-skating at Sylvia Lake. They dated the next three years and were married on June 20, 1953, at the Methodist Church in Edwards, NY.

Carlton had a lifelong passion for learning, in addition to his bachelor's degree, he went on to receive a master’s degree in chemistry from the University of Illinois in 1958, his Ph.D. from Clarkson in 1963 and a master’s in business administration from The Citadel in 1982.

Carlton had a distinguished career as a research chemist and received numerous patents as a result of his work. He began his career at Merck Pharmaceutical in Rahway, N.J. After earning his master’s degree, he worked as a chemist for Esso in Elizabeth, NJ until 1960 when he accepted a job with Latex Fibers Industries in Beaver Falls, N.Y. With the encouragement of his professor and mentor, Dr. Egon Matijevic, he returned to Clarkson and earned his Ph.D. and continued his work at Latex Fibers in Beaver Falls. Carlton had an opportunity in 1966 at Westvaco Pulp and Paper (WestRock) in Charleston, SC and moved his family to Mt. Pleasant, S.C. for the remainder of his career.

Following 26 years of service working with his boss and mentor Dr. Frank Ball, Carlton retired in 1992.

Carlton truly loved his career, but not more than his family and his roots. He kept the family summer cottage at Sylvia Lake in Gouverneur, and made sure his children were there every summer to grow up as he had—swimming and skiing in the crystal clear waters, leaping from cliffs into the lake, discovering the woods and how to become completely relaxed and calm. He cherished his time with his family at the lake and has instilled that passion in the hearts of three generations. He supported his children with his time and got involved in their activities, from helping with scouting and paper routes to assisting with school projects and passing along his skills as an expert ice skater and snow skier. Throughout his life, Carlton was very active in the Presbyterian Church, from singing in the choir since his childhood in Gouverneur to serving as a Deacon and volunteering on numerous committees as a member of the Mt. Pleasant Presbyterian Church.

Carlton and Rosalie moved to Apopka, FL in 2013 from Isle of Palms, S.C.

Carlton is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Rosalie Gotham Force, his four sons: Gregory (Rhonda) of Lexington, SC, Jeffrey (Elizabeth) of The Villages, FL, Stuart (Elaine) of Yalaha, FL and Ralph (Deborah) of Apopka, FL; six grandchildren: David Force; Jace (Trinh) Force; Jon (Courtney) Force; Melissa (Stefano) De Angelis; Kyle Force and Sean Force; plus, five great-grandchildren: Finn, Hunter, Riley, Brittney and Isabella.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Mt. Pleasant Presbyterian Church Hope House, 302 Hibben Street, Mt. Pleasant, S.C. 29464. The Hope House provides a Christ-centered, safe, secure, temporary home-away-from-home for family members who have a loved one being treated at an area hospital.

On-line condolences may be shared by visiting www.bankspagetheus.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Banks/Page-Theus Funerals and Cremations, Wildwood, FL and French Funeral Home, Gouverneur, NY.

Janet J. Berkebile, 77

Janet J. Berkebile, 77, of Leland, North Carolina and formerly of Gouverneur, New York and Indian Lake, Pennsylvania, departed on Tuesday morning, August 27, 2019 surrounded by her family at New Hanover Medical Center, Wilmington after an extended illness. Jan was born on January 23, 1942 in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of Marvin and Eleanor Woelke.

She married Richard A. Kemp on June 8, 1963 in Farmington, Michigan.  They relocated to Newcomb, New York and later to Gouverneur, New York where Jan worked as a teacher’s aide in special education classes.  Jan loved working with her students and enjoyed volunteering for Special Olympics. After Richard passed away in 1998, Jan later relocated to Indian Lake, Pennsylvania where she married Lynn D. Berkebile.  Jan worked as a real estate agent while continuing her volunteer work with the Special Olympics.  In her spare time, she enjoyed learning to golf and spending time with her family. Lynn and Jan decided to move to warmer weather in 2005 and made a new home in Leland, North Carolina. Jan worked for 10 years at Apple Annie’s Bake Shop in Wilmington, North Carolina where she was loved by both employees and customers.  

Jan leaves behind her brothers Donald Woelke, Philip Woelke, cousin Linda Erhart; her children, Cheryl Napier and husband Scott, David Kemp and wife Danielle, Candy Lyons and former husband Robert, Robert Berkebile and wife Heather; granddaughter Rachel Kemp and grandsons Skyler Lyons, Colin Lyons, Aidan Lyons, Avery Berkebile, and Carson Berkebile and many nieces and nephews.
 Jan was preceded in death by her husband of 35 years, Richard Kemp, and her husband of 19 years, Lynn Berkebile, her parents, and her brother Marvin.

Per Jan’s wishes, there will be no memorial service.

Donations may be made in her name to the Lewy Body Dementia Association or the Special Olympics.

John M. Burgess, 83

John M. Burgess, 83, of Lakeland, FL, formerly of Gouverneur, passed away peacefully Tuesday, September 10, 2019, at Good Shepherd Hospice surrounded by family.

A celebration of life will be held at St. John Neumann Church in Lakeland, FL, on Saturday, September 28, 2019, at 11:00 a.m.

John was born May 4, 1936, in Gouverneur, to George and Florence Cantwell Burgess. He married Alice (Jill) Fox Parker on November 24, 1960, at St. James Catholic Church in Gouverneur.

John graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1954, and from the University of Rochester in 1959.

John was employed by Kinney Drugs, Inc. from 1960 until his retirement in 1990. John held many positions within the Kinney organization during his career and retired holding the position of company president.

John served as a member of the Kinney Board of Directors from 1977 until 2006, and he was a member of the Board of Directors of Community Bank in Dewitt, NY from 1991 until 2010.

John was an avid and accomplished golfer while at Gouverneur High School, the University of Rochester, and as a longtime member of the Gouverneur Country Club.

John was club champion many times over the years and greatly enjoyed participating in the NNY 6-man team tournament where he qualified to participate in the event for 35 consecutive years and was the tournament medalist in 1966.

John was inducted into the University of Rochester Hall of Fame in 2005 for his accomplishments in both golf and basketball.

John gave back to his community during his life serving on the boards of St. James Church, St. James School, Sacred Heart Foundation, E.J. Noble Hospital, and the Gouverneur Luncheon Club.

Preceding him in death were his parents and two brothers, Paul Burgess and Peter Burgess.

John is survived by Jill, his wife of 58 years. Also remembering John are two sisters, Joan Easterly of Pittsford, NY, and Ruth (Robert) Wensley of Webster, NY; four sons, Michael (Dayle) Burgess of Gouverneur, NY, David Burgess of Arlington, VA, Robert (Jennifer) Burgess of Somerset, KY, and Richard (Carla) Burgess of Jamesville, NY; eleven grandchildren, and a host of nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations to St. John Neumann Church in Lakeland, FL, Talbot House in Lakeland, FL, or St. James School in Gouverneur, N.Y.

Roger Rice, 78

Roger Leon Rice, age 78, of Fowler, passed away at home on Sunday, September 22, 2019 under the care of his family.

Calling hours were held at French Funeral Home in Gouverneur on Thursday, September 26, 2019 from 11a.m. to 1 p.m. with his funeral service following at 1p.m. Burial will be in New St. James Cemetery.

Roger was born on December 31, 1940 in Theresa to the late Leon Emerson and Ruth (Roberts) Rice. He graduated from Gouverneur Central School in 1960 and married Judy Johnson on November 24, 1962 at St. James Catholic Church in Gouverneur.

Roger worked for the Town of Fowler Highway Department for 23 years, before retiring in 2003. He had previously worked as a dairy farmer, worked for Natural Dam Paper Mill for 10 years and drove school bus for Gouverneur Central School for 7 years.

He was a member of St. James Catholic Church and was also one of the charter members of the Gouverneur Rescue Squad, where he was a member for the first 20 years. Roger loved being outdoors. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, puttering outside and mowing his lawn. He was always there to help others and was a fun-loving man who liked to pick on other people.

His survivors include his wife, Judy Rice of Fowler, a son and his wife, Kermit and Angel Rice of Fowler, a daughter and her husband, Penny and Dale Matice of Gouverneur, and 5 grandchildren, Michelle Rice, Shaelyn Matice, Patrick Rice, Skylar Matice and Myah Matice.

Donations in Roger’s memory may be made to the Gouverneur Fire Department, 33 Clinton Street, Gouverneur NY 13642 or Gouverneur Rescue Squad, PO Box 164, Gouverneur NY 13642. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.