Arlene V. Robbins

OBIT _ Arlene Robbins copy.jpg

Arlene V. Robbins, age 92, of Gouverneur, passed away on May 18, 2020 at her home.

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

Arlene was born on April 3, 1928 in Gouverneur to the late Garfield and Delia (Pitre) Beckstead. She attended Gouverneur Central School and married Richard “Dick” W. Robbins on August 7, 1954. Dick passed away on December 4, 2015.

Arlene was well known for maker her donuts. She enjoyed camping, singing in her husband’s band (The Troubadours), doing crossword puzzles, and reading books. She was also a member of St. James Catholic Church.

She is survived by her children, Kevin and Kathy Robbins of Baldwinsville, Rick Robbins of Louisiana, Vicki and Richard McClare of Antwerp, a daughter-in-law, Patti Robbins of Gouverneur, and a sister, Joyce Shampine of Antwerp. Arlene is also survived by 9 grandchildren, several great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

She is predeceased by her husband, Dick Robbins, two sons, Alan and David Wayne Robbins, and her brothers, Walter, Paul, and Richard Beckstead.

Donations in memory of Arlene may be made to Friends 4 Pound Paws, PO Box 394, Gouverneur NY 13642.

James Frank Brotherton

OBIT _ James Brotherton copy.jpg

Funeral services for Mr. James Frank Brotherton, were Friday, May 15th 2020, at Chapel Hill Funeral Home. Family received friends one hour prior to service. Burial followed at Anniston Memorial Gardens.

Jim passed away peacefully at his home in Jacksonville, Alabama surrounded by his wife Deborah and step-daughter Angela on May 11, 2020. Jim was born on the family farm at Cooper’s Falls, New York to Harold W. Brotherton and Grace McIntyre Brotherton. He attended school at DeKalb Junction, New York and was an active member in the local 4-H club, showing Holstein calves at the county fair in Gouverneur, New York. In 1955 at the age of seventeen, Jim enlisted in the Army where he served honorably for over twenty years.

While serving in the U.S. Army, Jim was responsible for many aspects associated with intelligence gathering and electronic warfare support. Immediately following his Army retirement, he continued to serve his country as a government employee in the areas of security and counterterrorism. Before his retirement, Jim functioned as a private contractor working on several government contracts.

Ivan D. “Ike” Filiatrault

OBIT _ Ivan D. “Ike” Filiatrault pic copy.jpg

Ivan D. “Ike” Filiatrault, 85, of Co. Rt. 26, passed away Sunday, May 10, 2020 at home surrounded by his wife and family.

Born on March 29, 1935 in Antwerp, NY, he was a son of Cyril, Sr., and Gladys Dashnaw Filiatrault. He attended Antwerp High School.

Ivan married Edith L. Gleason on March 6, 1954 at the Antwerp Methodist Church.

In 1954, he went to work at Sanders Sheet Metal for 18 years. He was also owner and operator of a dairy farm on Co. Rt. 26 from 1963-1984 and co-owner of Gouverneur Roofing and Sheet Metal Company from 1977-1993, at which time he retired. He also worked in the winter time plowing snow on the Ft. Drum Airfield.

Ivan was treasurer of the Antwerp United Methodist Church, Chairman of the Shared Administrative Council, Trustee and Captain of the Clipper Club, Councilman of the Antwerp Town Board (18 years), exempt fireman for Antwerp Fire Dept., one of the first charter members of the Original Yanks Drum and Bugle Corp.

He loved camping with his grandchildren, coaching T-ball and grasshopper baseball, processing maple syrup, maple cream and butter with his grandson, Riley and spending time with family and friends.

Survivors include his wife of 66 years, Edith; three sons and three daughters-in-law, Leslie and Cynthia, Joseph and Susan, Allen and Kara; seven grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren.

His parents, four sisters, Vida, Ruth, Vivian, and Genevieve, three brothers, Cyril, Jr., Ken and Walt, all passed away previously.

As per his wishes, there will be no funeral or calling hours. Arrangements are with Frederick Bros. Funeral Home, Theresa, NY.

Donations may be made to Hospice of Jefferson County, 1398 Gotham Street, Watertown, NY 13601.

Condolences may be made online at www.frederickbrosfuneralhome.com

Agnes Marchione

OBIT _ Agnes Marchione pic copy.jpg

Agnes E. Marchione, age 91, of Gouverneur, passed away on May 11, 2020 at Clifton-Fine Hospital.

Due to the current pandemic, there will be a private graveside service in New St. James Cemetery, Gouverneur with her family.

Agnes was born on November 24, 1928 in Fowler to the late Burt and Rosemond M. (McIntosh) Donaldson. She graduated from the Gouverneur High School in 1947 and from the Watertown School of Commerce in 1949.

Agnes married Americo “Red” J. Marchione on August 27, 1948 in Richville with the Rev. Burston presiding. The couple lived in Gouverneur all of their married lives. Red passed away on April 20, 2002.

Mrs. Marchione worked as a secretary for the St. Lawrence County Health Department for many years. She was an active member of the Silas Wainwright V.F.W. Post 6338 Ladies’ Auxiliary where she was a former President. Agnes enjoyed reading and knitting.

Her survivors include her son and daughter-in-law, Michael J. and Penelope Marchione of Pitcairn; her daughter and son-in-law, Maria A. and Michael Farnsworth of Middlebury, VT; and four granddaughters, Cinnamon, Kc, Jade and her husband Dustin, Whitney, and three great grandsons, Landon, Carson and Oakley and a great granddaughter, Braxtyn.

She is predeceased by her parents; her husband; a grandson, Yorr Marchione; a great grandson, Liam Hunt and two brothers, Larry and Clifford Donaldson.

Donations in memory of Agnes may be made to CHERUBS, 3650 Rogers Rd., Suite 290, Wake Forrest, NC 27587 or to the Yorr Marchione Scholarship Fund at the Harrisville Central School. Condolences may be made online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Roxanna L. Klock

OBIT _ Roxanna Klock REVISED copy.jpg

Roxanna L. Klock, 67, passed away on Thursday, May 7, 2020 at Riverledge Health Care and Rehabilitation Center in Ogdensburg.

A private burial will be held in Riverside Cemetery in Rossie with the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur. A celebration of life will be announced and held at a later date.

Roxanna was born in Gouverneur on September 25, 1952, the daughter of Earl and Sara (Wright) Robb.

She graduated from Gouverneur High School and married Edward Klock on April 20, 1974 at Gouverneur United Methodist Church with the Rev. Stanley E. Brown officiating.

Roxanna had worked as a waitress, assisted Ed with the chores on their farm in Fowler, was a homemaker, and a mother.

She enjoyed her work on the farm, crossword puzzles, and spending time with her pets and family, especially the grandkids.

Roxanna is survived by her husband Ed, her two children Derek and Danielle Klock, Lisa and Scott Stowell, her six grandchildren Jaelynn, Tanner, Saige, Laraya, Levi, and Maddyson, her sisters Cindy McCollum and Sheril Robb, nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her parents and a brother Ronald Robb.

Memorial donations in Roxanna’s memory are encouraged to Friends 4 Pound Paws, PO Box 394, Gouverneur, NY 13642.

Helen Gotham Henri

OBIT _ Helen Gotham Henri pic copy.jpg

Helen Gotham Henri, 91, of Syracuse, N.Y., died on April 27, 2020 in her home with family at her side.

She was born on Mother’s Day, May 13, 1928 in Edwards to Harold Fred and Bernice Miller Gotham.

She graduated from Knox Memorial HS (1945) and Watertown School of Commerce (1947), then worked at Bagley & Sewell.

Prior to Claude being shipped to Korea, Helen married J.R. Claude Henri of Star Lake on January 3, 1951.

Helen supported Claude with his Clarkson University education and his career by moving and establishing numerous homes: Potsdam, Akron, Port Clinton, Elnora, Liverpool, Clifton Park, Springfield, and Syracuse.

Their love of travel brought them to Europe and 48 out of 50 states. One memorable vacation was their five-week Alaskan trip, pulling their “Camper Trailer” across the Alcan Highway in Canada to Alaska, back through northern America visiting Yellowstone and other National Parks.

Helen and Claude loved to dance, especially western square dance. Helen’s huge heart was demonstrated as primary caregiver for Claude, who had Alzheimer’s. Most importantly, Helen loved being a Mother, Sister, Aunt, and caring Grandmother, who lovingly cared for her grandkids and attended their many activities.

Helen was predeceased by her husband of 63 years, J.R. Claude Henri; two sons, Robert C. (Mary), and Steven G. Henri; her parents, Harold Sr. & Bernice Gotham; her sisters, Madeline Hatch, and Mary Gotham; her brothers, Harold Jr, Winston (Sandra), and Gilbert Gotham; her in-laws, Carlton Force, Dennis Hull, Jeanine (Stephen) Diekhaus, Carmen (Joe) Morin, Ubald “Joe” (Mary) Henrie, Charles (Rogene) Henri and Clayton Boula.

Helen is survived by her daughter, Michele Henri (James) Gagne of Syracuse; four grandchildren, Renee Elizabeth Henri (Carl Starks), Steven Robert Henri, Cody James Henri Faulkner, and Lucas “Luke” Taylor Henri Faulkner; sisters, Rosalie Gotham Force, and Mayfred Gotham Hull; brothers, Howard (Kate) and Richard (Janet) Gotham; daughter-in-law, Christine Henri; brother-in-law, Allan (Bonnie) Henri; sisters-in-law, Janet Gotham, and Deanna Henri Boula; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Helen requested no calling hours. Memorial contributions may be made to CNY Hospice; St Francis Social Adult Day Services (Sisters of St. Francis); or American Heart Association.

Sign our guestbook at butlerbadmanfuneralhome.com

Sharan Pulver, 75

OBIT _ Sharan Pulver pic copy.jpg

Sharan Pulver, 75, passed away on Tuesday, April 28, 2020 at Nathan Littauer Hospital in Gloversville.

A private burial will be held in New St. James Cemetery in Gouverneur with the Green Funeral Home.

Sharan was born in Newburgh on October 18, 1944, the daughter of Ethel (Zitz) and Martin W. Pulver Jr.

She attended school in Sonyea, N.Y. and then resided several years in Wassaic and Gloversville. Many of her family relocated to the north country and the Gouverneur area.

Sharan enjoyed listening to music and collecting porcelain dolls. She loved to dance and to watch others dance. Though Sharan couldn’t communicate directly, she had a personality that said it all. She could light a room with her smile. Sharan was loved by all knew who her and you could feel her love in return. Sharan loved to look her best and enjoyed having her hair, makeup and nails done.

She will truly be missed by all of those who knew and loved her including her Lexington Family in Fulton County. She has left a lifelong impression on our hearts and she will not be forgotten.

Sharan is survived by her brother Richard and Linda Pulver of Spragueville, nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her father Martin W. Pulver Jr., mother Ethel Pulver Brooks, stepfather Alvin Brooks, and a brother Martin W. "Farmer Bill" Pulver III and his wife Valerie.

David L Beatty

OBIT _ David L Beatty pic copy.jpg

David L. Beatty died on April 30, 2020 at age 80. He was a newspaper reporter, Army officer, author, printer and publisher, high school teacher and, during the main part of his career, a lecturer in economics and anthropology with the University of Maryland.

David was a native of Gouverneur, the son of William and Helen Beatty, born June 11, 1939. While in high school, he began a career in which writing would play an important role, reporting on sports for a local newspaper, The Tribune Press.

David began his association with the Syracuse area when he won a scholarship to study journalism at Syracuse University, completing his first degree in 1971. He then became a reporter for the Utica Daily Press until being called to active duty for five years in the U. S. Army. He rose to the rank of captain, serving in Paris as public information officer on the general staff of the Intelligence Command, and in Vietnam.

He returned to his career in Utica and then worked as a magazine editor at McGraw-Hill in New York on the Engineering News Record magazine.

He published a novel about the experiences of Americans in Vietnam titled Don't Tread on My Tire Rubber Sandals. While serving in Vietnam he had concluded that economic development was what Vietnam needed, even before the military effort there was winding down. For this reason, he next joined USAID, the American foreign aid agency as an assistant rural develop officer in Vietnam from 1971 to 1972.

When the US became involved in Vietnam, years of fighting during the French period had left the country just five percent self sufficient in rice. The Vietnam economic recovery program was a success story, bringing Vietnam to 90% self sufficiency in rice production by the time the Americans left in 1975.

David returned to Syracuse University to pursue studies in overseas economic development. He earned a masters in economics and a Ph.D. in anthropology, to be applied in teaching about economic development. His doctoral thesis was based on a study of the printing industry in India. a country he loved and where he spent extensive time learning the culture.

He then joined the University of Maryland as a lecturer in its Asian and European divisions, teaching at Army bases in countries that included the Philippines, Okinawa, Japan, South Korea and Germany.

After retiring from the University of Maryland, he was eager to live again in New York state, where he worked at Zogby International in Utica doing statistical studies. Later he took a post retirement job teaching high school social studies in the Bronx for four years, before settling in Syracuse.

At an earlier point, Beatty had published a book titled Guide to Starting A Printing Business, based on an interest in graphic arts that accompanied his editorial work. Once retired in East Syracuse, he set up a printing business, New Editions Bindery, to produce bound paper cover editions of short-run books and publications.

He was a member of the Presbyterian Church.

David Beatty is survived by a sister and brother-in-law, Margaret and Bernard Reagan, of Fayetteville, N.Y. and by nephew Matthew Reagan and wife Evangeline of California and by nephew David Reagan of Michigan and by niece Helen Steel and husband Daniel and their sons Jeremy and Jourdan Steel all of California.

A memorial service will be scheduled at a later time.

Anne C. Kelley

Anne C. Kelley, age 92, of Gouverneur, passed away on Friday, May 1, 2020 at Canton-Potsdam Hospital.

Anne was born on July 19, 1927 in Potsdam, NY to the late Nelson and Edna (Blount) Clough. She graduated from Potsdam High School in 1945 and then went for one year to Eastman Dental Dispensary in Rochester. She worked for four years as a dental hygienist for Dr. Edward Koch, Jr.

Anne married Ross D. Kelley on March 19, 1951 at the Trinity Episcopal Church in Potsdam with the Rev. J. Thurston Travis officiating. She and Ross owned and operated Kelley’s General Store in Fowler for a few years. Ross passed away on May 26, 2009.

Anne enjoyed doing crossword puzzles, playing her sons original Game Boy, playing piano and listening to music. She loved keeping both past and present family keepsakes and looked at them often. She was very family oriented and she enjoyed taking care of them and raising her children.

Surviving are three sons, Daniel Kelley of Maine, Jonathan and Natalie Kelley of Fowler and Andrew and Michelle Kelley of Lisbon; a daughter, Marcia Kelley of Fowler; three grandchildren, Rylea, Dustin and Kristopher Kelley and two great grandsons, Morgin and Logan Kelley; a sister-in-law, Bea Kelley-Edwards of Florida and several nieces and nephews.

Anne is predeceased by her parents, husband, a brother James Clough and a sister Jane Clough.

Due to the current pandemic, there will be no services at this time. There will be a graveside service at a later date at Hailesboro Cemetery. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home, Gouverneur. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Donations may be made in Anne’s memory to the Gouverneur Volunteer Rescue Squad or to Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley.

Barbara A. Lamar, 71

OBIT _ Barbara Lamar copy.jpg

Barbara A. Lamar, 71, of Watkins Glen, formerly of Gouverneur, passed away on Monday, April 27, 2020 at Cayuga Medical Center in Ithaca, N.Y.

She was predeceased by her parents, Paul and Betty Boscoe Markwick; her husband, Roger D. Lamar; and her brother, Timothy Markwick.

Barbara is survived by her son, Todd (Stephen Cole) Lamar of Watkins Glen; sisters, Linda (William) Bodah, Margo (Dennis) Yerdon and Jane (Mark) Hall all of Gouverneur; along with many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Barbara graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1966 and worked at Stewart’s Stop and Go in Gouverneur where she was the first manager and managed the meat department at the Great American.

She went on to work for 25 years at Tri City Rentals in Rochester while maintaining a beautiful home and raising her family. She enjoyed may trips to the casino with her husband, Roger.

A private burial will be held at the convenience of the family at White Haven Memorial Park in Rochester, New York. The family is being assisted by Blauvelt Funeral Home, 625 Broad Street, Waverly, New York. Those wishing to send a message of sympathy to Barbara’s family may visit our Facebook page or in “Obituaries” at www.blauveltfuneralhome.com

Sylvia K. Rose

OBIT _ Sylvia K. Rose pic copy.jpg

A memorial service for Sylvia K. Rose, 83, Palm Bay, Florida, and a native of Hammond, will be held at a later date in New York. Her final resting place will be Hillside Cemetery, Antwerp. Arrangements were entrusted to Ammen Family Cremation & Funeral Home.

Mrs. Rose died Sunday, April19, 2020 at William Childs Hospice House Palm Bay after a short illness. She was a prior resident of the Palms Rehab & Health Care Center, Palm Bay.

Born July 19, 1936, in the Town of Hammond, she was a daughter of the late Elmer and Doris (Graves) King. She grew up in Hammond and attended school there.

She was married to Frank Rose on April 10, 1954 at Hammond Presbyterian Church. Mr. Rose passed May 6, 2012.

Mrs. Rose was a mother and homemaker. She enjoyed watching QVC and collecting Avon, and a special joy was watching her grandson, Matt Rose, pursue his professional baseball career.

She is survived by two daughters, Cynthia Sovie, Cape Vincent and Lisa Rose, Palm Bay; four sons Daniel, Hammond; Ricky, Randy and Cindy, David and Stephanie all of Palm Bay; 11 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, and several nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Rose was predeceased by two sisters Beverly (Lynn) DeCarr and Sally Custer; a grandson Christopher Rose and a son-in-law John Sovie.

Richard J. “Dick” Tessmer

Richard J. “Dick” Tessmer, age 85, Gouverneur,

passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 18, 2020 at Canton-Potsdam Hospital in Potsdam.

Funeral services are private with the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur and burial will be held in Riverside Cemetery, Gouverneur.

He was born in Mellen, Wisconsin on November 30, 1934. Dick was the son of Max A. and Ruth (van Alstine) Tessmer. He was brother to Max E., Franchieu Ritchie, and Donna Burchett.

Dick married Mary Staples from Eliot, Maine on July 16, 1961 and ultimately resided in Gouverneur with their two sons, Matthew and Eric. He was predeceased by his parents, brother, and sisters. He is survived by his wife, Mary, two sons Matthew and his wife Kathy of Ogdensburg, and Eric of Gouverneur. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Dick graduated Gouverneur High School in 1953, where he enjoyed a standout athletic career in football and wrestling. Dick was also president of the GHS Class of 1953. Dick was inducted onto the Gouverneur High School “Athletic Wall of Fame” in 2013.

Dick enlisted in the United States Marine Corps where he served from 1953 to 1956, attained the rank of Sergeant, and was honorably discharged.

Upon his discharge from Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton in 1956, he bought a used Harley Davidson. He then rode across the country from San Diego, CA to return home to Gouverneur.

Dick attended Michigan College of Mining and Technology (Houghton, MI), from 1956 to 1958. He would then embark on a multifaceted career in the construction industry. Over the next four decades, he successfully worked, predominantly in construction management, for Northeast Construction, Germanetti and Ryan Construction Associates, Inc., and B.S. Industrial. He retired in 2000.

Dick loved to spend time with his family. He enjoyed small landscaping and construction projects at home and at their camp at Trout Lake.

Dick was an avid reader of 20th century military history with a focus on WWII and the Korean War. He was a firearms enthusiast and enjoyed target shooting with both rifles and pistols. He liked classic movies with an affinity for Westerns. He was a huge supporter and fan of Section 10 football, specifically OFA as well as GHS football. He did not support Massena football. Most of all though, Dick loved his family and they very much love him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Gouverneur Library, Gouverneur Vol. Rescue Squad, or Ogdensburg Free Academy Football.

Virginia Rose “Ginny” Roberts

OBIT _ Virginia Rose “Ginny” Roberts pic copy.jpg

Virginia Rose “Ginny” Roberts, 75, passed away on Monday, April 13, 2020 at her home.

Funeral services are private with the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur and burial will be in Pleasant Lake Cemetery in Brasie Corners.

Virginia was born on September 2, 1944 in Gouverneur, the daughter of Weldon “Buster” and Helena “Teen” (Patton) Wainwright.

She graduated from Hammond Central School in 1963 and from Pauldine School of Cosmetology, Watertown in 1964.

Ginny married Ronald D. Roberts on October 17, 1964 at Brasie Corners Methodist Church.

The couple lived in different areas including California while Ronnie served in the United States Navy and then returned to Macomb upon his completion of service.

Ginny worked many jobs including hairdresser, waitress, bartender, and she drove school bus for many years for Laforty’s and Laidlaw Transportation. She also trained bus drivers, taught pre school in Brasie Corners, and was a teachers aide. Ginny retired from driving bus to concentrate on being Nana, childcare provider for her granddaughters.

Besides attending the sports and activities of her grandchildren, Ginny enjoyed spending time with friends and her family, hosting the annual Wainwright reunion, dancing, going to garage sales, and making crafts. She also enjoyed sewing, games, collected rooster pieces, and enjoyed sitting on her front porch.

Ginny is survived by her husband of 55 years Ronnie, her children Kevin and Laurie Roberts, Lisa and Michael Green, her granddaughters Taylor Roberts, Kirstin Roberts and her fiancé George Salg. She is also survived by her brothers Wendell Wainwright, Stanley “Rusty” and Janice Wainwright, Richard “Dudley” and Krista Wainwright, Vernon and Julie Wainwright, her sister Marlene Wainwright, a sister-in-law Sharon Wainwright, and she was Aunt Ginny to her many nieces and nephews. Ginny is predeceased by her parents, a brother Duane Wainwright, and a sister-in-law Elaine Wainwright.

Memorial donations in Ginny’s memory are encouraged to the Morristown Vol. Rescue Squad, PO Box 4, Morristown, NY 13664.

William D. Smith, 76

OBIT _ William D. Smith copy.jpg

William D. Smith "Denver", 76 of North Charleston, S.C. passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 1, 2020 with his family by his side.

Denver was born in Gouverneur on September 15, 1943, the son of William and Retha Hitchman Smith.

He attended Gouverneur schools and worked as a mechanic at Grants. He took over his family farm on Chub Lake Road in 1977. While living in South Carolina he owned his own construction business.

He is survived by his companion of more than 20 years, Beverly Bastian, his children Ron and Dorothy of Watertown, Bill and Katie of Dekalb Jct., Joe and Lloyd of Tennessee, Denver and Lisa of Tennessee, Christina Ross of Florida, 11 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, his siblings Joanne Rose, Hollis Smith, James and Barbara Smith, Pansy Bowhall, Mark and Kay Smith.

He is predeceased by his parents and siblings, Sally Matejcik and Patsy Smith.

Denver was known for playing guitar in his family band, Chub Lake Ridgerunners, at the local dance halls. He always loved country music and you could be sure he'd have his cowboy boots on. He enjoyed all his flea market finds, Nascar and Jeff Gordon. He liked to cook, especially on the holidays. He loved spending time with his kids and grandkids when they visited and always put his boys to work on all the things he needed done around the house, as he supervised.

Denver will be missed dearly by his friends and family. We will all miss his daily good morning texts. Although he spent many years in SC, to him, home was always New York and that will be his final resting place with his family.

Clayton S. Boney

OBIT _ Clayton Boney copy.jpg

Clayton S. Boney, 72, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, March 25th. A private funeral service will be held under the direction of the French Funeral Home, Gouverneur, NY. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Clayton is survived by his loving wife Linda D. Ferrara. Two sisters, Cynthia C. Fuller of Fowler, NY and Sue Ellen Caswell of Waddington, NY. He also leaves behind treasured nieces and nephews, Tina Caswell, Trudy Caswell-Ryan, Troy Caswell and Barbara Fuller Finnie and was predeceased by a niece, Bonnie Fuller. He loved his great-nieces and great-nephews, and was honored to be godfather to his great-nephew Mason G. Caswell. Also, he enjoyed lifelong friendships with Mark Horvath, Bridgewater, NJ, Scott Rumble, Gouverneur, NY and David Mead of Key Largo, Fl.

Clayton was born in Gouverneur, NY on January 22, 1948. He was raised in Hailesboro, NY by his parents, the late Francis W. and Elaine G. (Tuttle) Boney. He graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1967. After graduation, he was drafted by the US Army where he served in Korea on the DMZ line until 1970. After being discharged from the Army, he returned home and married his high school sweetheart, Patsy A. Moe. They started their life together in Somerset, New Jersey as Clayton pursued his career with JJ Newberry and as regional manager of textile retail stores. After Patsy’s untimely death in July of 1994, he found comfort and companionship with their cherished dog Abby.

Clayton remained in New Jersey as he worked towards a new career in the financial industry. The values he learned as an Eagle Scout were beneficial as he began educating himself through local college courses and workshops. His work ethic and determination eventually led to his position with Merrill Lynch Investment Group. He retired from Merrill Lynch in 2008.

As in his work, his determination to stay fit and healthy served him well before and after he met and married his new love, Linda Ferrara. They were both avid gym-goers and fitness enthusiasts. They built their home in Chalfont, PA which Clayton took much pride in, whether it was the house maintenance or the beautifully manicured property. They traveled extensively visiting Alaska, Canada and several National Parks in the U.S. as they made their way around the country. And, of course, he always had time for his beloved family, often traveling north to Gouverneur and Waddington, NY. Clay’s infectious smile would warm your heart whenever you were with him. He loved the company of family and friends, enjoying gatherings and sharing conversation in which he was always selfless and humble.

Donations may be made in Clayton’s memory to St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center, P.O. Box 5281, North Branch, NJ 08876.

Louis J. “Jack” Christensen

OBIT _ Louis J. “Jack” Christensen pic copy.jpg

Louis J. “Jack” Christensen, 90, of Camillus, NY for the past eight years, passed away on March 31, 2020.

Jack was born on October 16, 1929 in Watertown, NY to Aura (Johnston) and Louis A. Christensen. After graduating from Gouverneur High School in 1948, he went on to receive his Physical Education degree at Brockport State in 1952.

He entered into the U. S. Army in1952 and served his country until his honorable discharge in 1954.

Jack married Rosalie Girard on January 17, 1953 at St. James Catholic Church in Gouverneur.

After his discharge from the Army, he received his Masters Degree in Education from Springfield College.

Jack then proceeded to have a thirty-three year career as a much admired teacher and coach in the Rochester City School District.

Throughout his career, he coached high school football, basketball, and lacrosse. He was also the Asst. Baseball Coach at Monroe Community College from 1972 to 1994.

He was the recipient of numerous awards throughout his very successful career.

He was Director for the children’s summer baseball program at Kodak for 15 years during the summer months.

In his retirement, Jack and Rosalie enjoyed spending winters in New Smyrna Beach, Fla and summers back in their hometown of Gouverneur, NY. He loved his Boston RedSox, golfing, umpiring and playing softball, and having season tickets to Syracuse University football and basketball.

Besides being an avid sports enthusiast, he also had a deep love of music. He played the trumpet for many years.

It has been stated that Coach Chris was a true “gentleman” coach. To this day, he had remained very close to some of his past players as if they were family.

Jack is predeceased in 2011 by the love of his life, Rosalie “Rollie” Girard Christensen.

He is survived by two daughters, Zoe Ann (Gary) Gonza of Camillus, NY and Daria Jan Christensen of Norwood, MA; and son Louis “Chris” (Gina) Christensen of Pittsford, NY; and two granddaughters, Stephanie (Jacquie) Christensen of Rochester, NY and Shelby Christensen of Chicago, IL.

Private services due to the pandemic were held on Friday, April 3, 2020 at French Funeral Home followed by a Mass at St. James Catholic Church with Fr. Lynch officiating. Burial will occur at St. James Cemetery in Gouverneur at a later date.

A memorial service to celebrate his legacy will be held at a future date to be announced. Donations may be made in Jack’s memory to St. James Catholic Church, Gouverneur or St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Camillus or In Christ New Hope Ministry, Inc., Henrietta, NY. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Kelly Lynn Marasco

OBIT _ Kelly Lynn Marasco pic copy.jpg

Kelly Lynn Marasco, 55, passed away on Thursday, April 2, 2020 at University Hospital in Syracuse.

There are no funeral services and she will be laid to rest in East Riverside Cemetery in Gouverneur.

Arrangements are with the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur.

Kelly was born in Gouverneur on February 20, 1965, the daughter of Felix and Connie (Hall) Marasco.

She graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1983 and attended nursing school to receive certification as a licensed practical Nurse. Kelly worked at the Kinney Nursing Home until transferring over to E.J. Noble Hospital which transitioned into Gouverneur Hospital.

Kelly had great love for animals, especially cats. She dreamt of being a marine biologist when she was younger. She loved any pictures of kittens, watched countless videos of cats, and never missed an opportunity to snuggle and love a cat. One of her favorite pastimes was watching YouTube videos and engaging on Facebook, often to the dismay of others who she playfully argued with. She had a great love for murder and crime shows, often able to speak verbatim of crime scenarios. Kelly was a Sprite connoisseur. There was nothing better than an ice cold can of Sprite and a delicious meal. She often spoke for her love of cannoli and encouraged others to love it as well. She loved t-shirts, shopping at Kinney Drugs and Stewarts, and playing games on her tablet.

She loved music. While working as a nurse you could often hear her belt out any number of songs while shimmying and shaking down the hall with her medication cart. Residents, patients, and family members alike were entertained by Kelly and enjoyed her playful and humorous demeanor. Kelly lived loud and unabashedly. She was an individual and marched to her beat, self-assured that she was who she was and was proud of that fact. Though she died young, she regaled her coworkers with many a story about the life she lived, the fun she had, and did so with no regrets. She left this world on her own terms and leaves behind a legacy of caring. She was always doling out advice, even when it was hard to hear, and she was the first to help anyone that asked.

Kelly is survived by her 2 sons Nicholas Marasco and Joey Marasco, her companion Daniel Backus, her father Felix Marasco, her aunts, uncle, and cousins. She is predeceased by her mother Connie Brown, stepfather John Brown, and stepmother Elizabeth Marasco.

Besides her immediate family and many friends, Kelly leaves behind a nursing family; work daughters Alexis Rowe, Kayli Dusharm, Samantha Rusin, Amanda House., Amanda Clement, Michalla Wainwright, Erin Hughes, Denise Murray, Katelynne Kulp, Denise Recore, Jenelle Fuller, and Erica Fishel; work sisters Sallie Emrich, Reen Woods, and Dawn Bango; mentors Julie Henry and Deb Bates;  work mother Linda Soto; a sister in shenanigans Kim Harmer; and her work husband, Jason Matice.  Kelly not only provided comedic relief to her workers and patients; but she boosted staff morale as well. She was the matriarch of her nursing family and will be missed immensely.

Memorial donations in Kelly’s memory are suggested to Friends 4 Pound Paws, PO Box 394, Gouverneur, NY 13642.

Shirley A. Grange

OBIT _ Shirley Grange copy.jpg

Shirley A. Grange, 56, of New Mexico, formerly from Gouverneur, New York, died unexpectedly at home on Wednesday, March 18, 2020.

Shirley was born November 27, 1963. She wed Thomas Grange on July 26, 1996. She loved to travel and take photos of all the beautiful places she got to see. She loved to draw and bake. She was talented in many ways. She had a big heart and will be missed by many.

She is survived by her husband Thomas “Tom” Grange, mother Karen Barr, daughter Jamie Walton, daughter Jennifer Walton, grandchildren Karter, Andrew and Janeisa, Brother Jeff and family, Sister Cindy and family, sister Kathy and family, nieces and nephews.

She is predeceased by father Stanley Barr, sister Bonnie Hayden, grandparents, niece Amber Mote, and great-nephew Odin Mote.

A Memorial / Celebration of Life will take place at a later time.

Linda Ann (Miles) Gardner

Linda Ann (Miles) Gardner of Rossie, New York, passed away on March 26, 2020 at Gouverneur Hospital. She spent her last days making new friends and accepting visits from lifelong friends and family.

Born on October 29, 1947 to Everett J. Miles and Helen (King) Miles in Gouverneur and raised in Hailesboro, New York, Linda graduated from Gouverneur Central School in 1965.

A registered nurse, having graduated from the Saint Lawrence Hospital School of Nursing in 1969, Linda worked at Community General Hospital in Syracuse while advancing her training. She became a coronary care nurse and moved back to the North Country in 1970.

Charles A. Gardner and Linda were married on July 10th, 1971 at the St. James Roman Catholic Church in Gouverneur. Linda and Charlie moved where his studies took them, affording Linda the opportunity to work at Mercy Hospital in Watertown, Hepburn Hospital in Ogdensburg, and St. Peters Hospital in Albany.

Linda had her first child, a son, Nicholas F. in January of 1976 and her daughter, Elizabeth A. in March of 1977.

Linda continued her career as a nurse including two years with St. Lawrence County Public Health until 1984 when she enrolled at SUNY Potsdam with the dream of becoming an elementary school teacher. While at SUNY Potsdam, Linda was very active in student life holding leadership positions in several student organizations. She graduated from SUNY Potsdam in May of 1987 and embarked on a 20-year career as an educator with the Hammond Central School District.

Linda spent most of her years at Hammond, teaching 3rd grade. She was also the yearbook advisor for many years. Whenever a student or coworker needed a word of encouragement or sympathetic ear, they knew they could find it in Linda’s classroom. She was always at school early and stayed late, devoting her life to her students and fellow teachers. Linda retired from Hammond Central School at the end of the 2006-2007 school year.

A devoted mother, grandmother, and friend, Linda spent her retirement with the people she held dearest. Linda continued to work per diem at the Kinney Nursing home in Gouverneur and as a substitute school nurse at Hammond and Hermon Dekalb Central Schools. She loved to read, cook, and simply sit and visit for hours on end.

Linda was predeceased by her father, mother, step father Elmer Peck, older brother William "Bill" Miles and sister-in-law Louise (Salzer) Miles.

Linda is survived by her husband Charlie, son Nick and his wife Jennifer (Hadlock) Gardner and their children Kennon E (16), Nolan F (14), Jensen N (8), and Vivian F (6) of Rossie, daughter Elizabeth of Fulton New York, nephew Christopher Miles, niece Michelle Sanger, and close cousin Henry and wife Christine Laquier of Rensselaer Falls, New York.

A private Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Patrick’s Church in Rossie with interment to follow at St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Rossie. A memorial mass and time for fellowship will be announced and held this summer.

Memorial donations can be made to the organizations that Linda held dear to her heart, The Hammond Central School Music Fund, 51 South Main Street Hammond, New York 13646, Gouverneur Hospital, 77 West Barney Street, Gouverneur, New York 13642, and Richard E. Winter Cancer Center, 5 Lyon Place, Ogdensburg, New York 13669.

Margaret E. Cole

OBIT _ Margaret E. Cole copy.jpg

Margaret Eloise Cole, age 91, of Chase Mills, went to be with her Lord on March 25, 2010.

Margaret was born on March 22, 1929 in the Town of Edwards to the late Ivan M. and Eva F. (Law) Davis. She went to school at the Pleasant Valley School House in Edwards.

After high school, she attended Cornell University for two years and then received her Bachelor’s Degree from Empire State College. She had a strong love for learning and that trait carried all the way through her life.

She married Kenneth D. Cole on January 3, 1948 at the Hermon Methodist Parsonage with Rev. Roy Flint officiating. Together, she and Kenneth owned and operated Cole Family Farm. Ken passed away on January 3, 1992.

Margaret also worked at the New York State Hospital at the Northwood Manor in Ogdensburg. She was very active in the Relay for Life, taking part in the “Terminator Team”. She was a former member of the 4-H and the Grange. She owned Blue Heron Patchwork and was very talented. She enjoyed sewing, quilting, crafting, wood working and wood finishing and ceramics. She also loved country music, was an avid reader, really had a love for books and was very well read.

Surviving are two sons, Daniel and Jerrilyn Cole of Dekalb Jct. and Kenneth Cole “Andy” of Ontario, NY; a foster son, Frederick Davis of Chase Mills; a sister-in-law Marjorie Davis of Edwards; 11 grandchildren, several great grandchildren, several great-great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Margaret is predeceased by her husband; parents; a daughter, Lucy Allen and a brother, Eugene Davis.

There will be visitation and a memorial service for Margaret at a later date. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home, Edwards. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com. Donations in her memory may be made to SUNY Potsdam Relay for Life, Team Hopeful Heroes, c/o Denise Furnace, 49 Marie St., Massena, NY 13662 or to Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley, 6805 US Hwy. 11, Potsdam, NY 13676.