Andrew Porter

Andrew “Andy” L. Porter, age 12, of Fowler, passed away on January 14, 2020 at home.

There will be a memorial service held at French Funeral Home in Gouverneur on Sunday, February 9, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. Burial will be near his father in the Pleasant View Cemetery in Clare. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Andy was born on December 17, 2007 in Springfield, MA to Cynthia L. (Warriner) Porter and the late Wesley Roland Porter. He was educated through the ADA program through BOCES in Potsdam.

Andy was a kid who loved everybody and was very friendly and cheerful. He enjoyed watching videos and snuggling. Andy is survived by his mother, Cynthia Porter, sister, Elisabeth A. Porter, and his grandfather, C. Lee Warriner. He is predeceased by his father, Wesley R. Porter, uncle Todd R. Warriner, and grandmother, Sharon I. Warriner.

Donations in memory of Andy may be made to the National Autism Awareness Society at https://www.autism-society.org/get-involved/national-autism-awareness-month/.

Sharon T. Durham

Sharon T. Durham, 69, of Gouverneur, passed away on Thursday, January 9, 2020 at her home, surrounded by her family and under the care of Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley.

Calling hours were held on Saturday, January 11 from 10 to 11 am, followed by a funeral service at 11am at the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur with Keith Taylor, brother of Sharon, officiating and burial in East Riverside Cemetery, Gouverneur.

Sharon was born in Binghamton on August 12, 1950, the daughter of Robert and Ruth (Mann) Taylor.

She graduated from Massena High School in 1969 and married Ronald E. "Huck" Durham on December 23, 1972 at Hermon Baptist Church with her father and brother officiating.

Sharon worked as a home health care aide and a nurse’s aide at Highland Nursing Home and Kinney Nursing Home. Sharon, Huck, and their children also operated a food trailer business as R&S Family Concession.

Sharon enjoyed going to church, reading from the bible, watching the birds, camping, especially at Coles Creek, and spending time with family, often watching her grandkids playing sports.

Sharon is survived by her husband Ron, her children Marilyn J. Durham of Gouverneur and grandchildren Stallone, Savannah, and Willow, Becki Jo Durham and Jon Lalone of Mannsville and grandchildren Alana, Jalynne, Cain, and Rayden, Ronald J. "RJ" Durham and Danielle Mitchell of Heuvelton, and grandchildren Rylee and Lanie.

She is also survived by her siblings Robert and Tedi Taylor, Keith and Kathy Taylor, Rebecca Taylor, Priscilla and Jim Jenne, Phillip and Mary Taylor, Paul and Laura Taylor, John and Kari Taylor, Bethany and Doug Main, many nieces and nephews.

Memorial donations in Sharon's memory are encouraged to the Hermon Baptist Church.

Paula Towne

On Sunday December 29, Paula Towne passed away at her home in Gouverneur surrounded by loved ones. Over the past three months, the outpouring of support from the community helped give her strength as she battled cancer. Born in Rochester on July 18th, 1948, Paula is survived by her four children and their partners, Jessie Bishop and Bart Bishop (Gouverneur), Mason Wolak and Melissa Perreria and their daughter Avery (Alexandria, VA), Clinton Langevin and Amy Norris and their son Jasper (Toronto, ON), and Daniel and Jessalyn Langevin (Denver, CO).

For over forty-five years she called the North Country home and embodied the independent spirit of the area, with a consummate work ethic as an artist and creative soul. Paula’s home gallery, Trinkets, showcased her diverse artistic talents that included acrylic, oil and watercolor painting, pen and ink drawing, portraiture, logo/typesetting, woodburning, and rug making. She drew inspiration from the beauty of upstate New York, winning multiple awards at area art shows for her nature-based woodburnings. Over a twenty-year period, Paula completed portraits of every member of each senior class at Gouverneur High School. In addition to her numerous artistic achievements, Paula was also an active teacher, giving independent art lessons to hundreds of students in the area.

She was born the fourth child of five to Kay and Charlie Rysewyk (Rochester). Her surviving siblings are brothers Jim and Doug Rysewyk, and sisters Carol Lynch and Barb Thompson. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Paula’s name to either the Cancer Research Institute at cancerresearch.org or the St. Lawrence Arts Council at slcartscouncil.org.

Calling hours were held at French Funeral Home in Gouverneur on Saturday, January 4, 2020 from 3 – 5 p.m. followed by a memorial service at 5 p.m. Her family hosted a get-together at her home following the service. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Harry Salisbury

Harry R. Salisbury, age 76, of Gouverneur, passed away on December 29, 2019 at Van Duyn Rehabilitation Center in Syracuse.

His funeral and burial will be private with Elder Richard Youngs, his long- time friend officiating. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home, Gouverneur.

Harry was born on July 4, 1943 in Gouverneur to the late Donald and Jacqueline (Vert) Salisbury. He attended the Gouverneur High School and married Mary Alice Rotundo on January 16, 1971 at the Gouverneur Baptist parsonage officiated by Rev. Perry.

Harry started working right out of high school as a mechanic for the Central Garage in Gouverneur. He also worked for Rotundo Chrysler-Plymouth before opening up his own business, Harry’s Auto Repair. Harry operated his own business for 13 ½ years before becoming an underground mechanic for ZCA where he worked until it closed. Always enjoying mechanical work, Harry loved going to work.

Harry loved racing and playing golf. He watched NASCAR, was a Dale Earnhardt fan, and even owned his own race car. Harry was also a longtime member of the Gouverneur Elks Lodge.

His survivors include his wife, Mary Alice Salisbury; two daughters, Wendy and Penny and their families; several nieces and nephews; and also, his precious cat, Rufus.

Harry is predeceased by his parents and his brother, Dean Salisbury and his in-laws, Henry and Doreen Rotundo.

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

Phillip John McKinney

Phillip John McKinney, age 36, formerly of Gouverneur, died on December 27, 2019.

There was a visitation held at French Funeral Home, 16 Barnes Street, Gouverneur NY 13642 on Monday, December 30, 2019 from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. There was no funeral service. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Phillip was born on December 27, 1983 in Gouverneur to Michael McKinney and Karen (June) McKinney. He attended Gouverneur Central School and Jefferson Community College.

Phillip married Phyl Barbara on August 6, 2005. The couple have three girls who were their father’s world. Phillip was a fantastic father who was fiercely loyal and patient with everyone.

Phillip started working as an autobody repairman at the age of 16 for Mike Parker of S&M auto and has worked the trade for 20 years ending his career at Hamilton’s Body Shop in Adams Center. He was a hard worker and was very good at his job and loved helping his family when he could. He played guitar and had a beautiful voice. He loved his girls. He loved 4-wheelers and mud pits. He was the glue that held his family together.

He is survived by his wife, Phyl McKinney, his daughters, Kyara Concha, Alyson McKinney, Toryann McKinney, his mother, Karen McKinney, his father, Michael McKinney, brothers, Tony McKinney and his fiancé Kelly Edwards, Jeremy McKinney and his wife, Nicole, and his mother-in-law, Michelle Bridge.

Donations in memory of Phillip may be made at https://www.facebook.com/1024160409/posts/10218128218690002/?d=n.

His family wants to be sure everyone knows the phone number for Suicide Prevention. Call 1-800-273-8255. Available 24 hours every day.

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.