Daniel Burritt

Jesus welcomed home his beloved, faithful servant, Daniel Burritt on July 1, 2020.

Dan was best known for his fervent desire to share the Good News of God’s sacrifice of His only begotten Son for our sins with everyone. Dan was born on October 16, 1955. 37 years later he was born again of God’s Spirit when, on May 9, 1993, he placed his faith in Jesus Christ and what He did for him on the cross and received Jesus as his Lord and Savior. He was forever changed. Many of you knew Dan before and after conversion and witnessed that change. For the next 27 years of his life in Christ Jesus he grew in grace and the knowledge of Him. In November 2009 God called him to be an evangelist/missionary and sent him around the world. Dan obediently left the comforts of America to bring the comforts of God to others in 28 countries on 5 Continents. All those who believe and receive the gospel that he shared with them will see him in heaven one day.

”Only one life, it will soon be past, only what’s done for Jesus Christ shall last.” Nothing else that Dan did here on earth carries any significance in Heaven, so we will not mention it.

Dan and his ministry, “It Is Finished” is already missed by many around the world.

He is survived by his loving wife Dorene, his daughters Erica Hunt (Jordan) and Sandra Constance (Matthew), his grandchildren Ashlynn Lucille, Aliya Nicole, Kayla Lilianna, Alyssa Grace, Liam Daniel and David Carson. He is also survived by his brothers; Mark and Davis Burritt and sisters, Terri Lord and Diane DePue.

There will be a memorial service held at 2pm Sunday, July 12, 2020 at Richville Christian Fellowship (41 School St.) The service will also be live streamed on the church’s Facebook page.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be given to fulfill Dan’s desire to put his recently published book, “How to Live for GOD, in plain language,” which has been translated into Spanish, into the hands of Latin American pastors free of charge. www.itisfinished.co/donate-now/

Linda S. Hutton

Linda S. Hutton, 70, passed away on Wednesday, July 1, 2020 at Riverledge Health Care in Ogdensburg. There are no funeral services and arrangements are with the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur. Linda was born in Lowville on November 18, 1949, the daughter of Leslie and Elizabeth (Barber) Smith. She graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1968 and married Jack Hutton on August 17, 1968 in Gouverneur. Mr. Hutton, a retired employee of IMERYS, passed away on September 19, 2012. Linda enjoyed reading and spending time with her family. She is survived by her 3 children Robert and Tracey Hutton of Fowler, Lisa Hutton of Richville, Laurie and Kevin White of Helena, her 8 grandchildren, and 12 great grandchildren. Linda is also survived by her brothers Ben Jones of Gouverneur, Herb Smith of Watertown, her sisters Nancy Dingman of Sandy Creek, Cheryl Washburn of Gouverneur, several nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her parents, her husband Jack, and a sister Alice Rigby.

Patricia M. Clement

Patricia M. Clement, age 72, of Fowler, passed away at home on July 6, 2020 surrounded by her family.

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

Patricia was born on January 1, 1948 in De Kalb to the late Gaylord and Gertrude (Davis) Gladle. She attended the Gouverneur Central School and earned her G.E.D.

Patricia married Richard A. Clement on June 27, 1964 in the Gouverneur Methodist Church officiated by Rev. Stanley Brown. She worked as a crew trainer for McDonald’s, sold Avon and Stanley home products, and had worked at the Groveton Paper Mill. She was a member of the Fly Wheels and Pullies Club in Constableville and the Draft Horse Club. She loved to sing and spend time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Patricia also loved playing softball, fishing, and making wedding and birthday cakes.

She is survived by her husband, Richard “Dick” Clement, Sr., four children, Susan and Marc Dusharm, Richard Clement, Jr. and his companion, Carrie Allen, Harold “Russ” Clement and his companion, Adrianne Krake, and Rodney and Anita Clement. She is also survived by 11 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, and siblings, Fred, Arthur, Randy, Wayne, and Mitchell Gladle, and Tina Charleton.

Patricia is predeceased by two brothers, Gaylord and Patrick Gladle.

Sharon M. Boclair

Sharon M. Boclair, 68 of St. Petersburg, Florida, formerly of Gouverneur, NY passed away on July 7, 2020 after suffering a short illness.

Her family has decided to have her cremated, and a memorial service will be planned for a later date.

She is survived by her sons, James Burns of Knoxville, TN, Brian Burns of Brownville, NY, and Michael Burns of Richville, NY, four Sisters, Dianna Newvine, Linda Woodard, Gail Vernig, and Michelle Woodward, and a brother Ernest Boclair, all of Gouverneur. five grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, Ernest and Geraldine (Taber) Boclair.

Bette M. Tyler

Bette M. Tyler, 95, of Gouverneur, passed away on Wednesday, June 24, 2020 at Maplewood Health Care in Canton.

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

Bette was born in Gouverneur on August 28, 1924, the daughter of Thomas and Bertha (Adams) Black.

She married Merrill Tyler on September 5, 1942 in Gouverneur.

The couple enjoyed spending summers at their cottage on Sylvia Lake, and Bette also enjoyed bowling, playing bridge, gardening, and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

Bette is survived by her son James and Charlene Tyler, her daughter-in-law Roxanne Tyler, several grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. She is predeceased by her parents, her husband Merrill, a son Thomas Tyler, and a daughter Kathryn Jackson.

Charles E. Rixon

Charles “Chuck” Ernest Rixon, 82, of Elizabethton, TN, formerly of Star Lake, passed away on November 18, 2019, with his loving wife by his side.

A memorial service will be held on July 11, 2020, at 11 a.m. at St. Hubert Cemetery in Star Lake.

Born April 23, 1937, to Ernest and Florence Rixon, Chuck joined the US Navy as an Aviation Ordnance from 1955-58.  He was an active member of the American Legion.  After leaving the Navy, he worked at Newton Falls Paper Mill for over 40 years, until retiring.  He then worked one year in Alabama. Chuck enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating and playing shuffleboard with friends and family.   He was of the Catholic faith. 

Chuck married Patricia Labounty.  She passed in February, 1999.  Chuck moved to TN in 2009 and later married Vicky Church on June 3,2015.

Chuck is survived by his wife, Vicky Church Rixon, a brother Ron (Ann) Rixon, sisters Sharon Snyder, Dorothy Rixon and Helena Delosh, sons Jeffrey (Debbie) Rixon and David (Elizabeth) Rixon, stepchildren Bridget (Jon) Huckle, Susan (Colin Burgos) Church, William “Buddy” Church, Whitney (Brent) Cole,  grandchildren Brittany Rixon, Kristoffer Rixon, Megan Rixon, Nicholas Rixon, step-grandchildren Cade and Camyrn Huckle, Rivir Burgos, Caleb and Jacob Church, Paisley & Reid Cole.

Clara “Jean” Richardson

Clara “Jean” Richardson, 80, of Richville, passed away on Monday, June 29, 2020 at her daughter’s home under the care of her family and Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley.

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

Clara was born on March 17, 1940, the daughter of Harold and Lucille (Shampine) Lacey. She married Harold W. “Buckshot” Richardson on April 17, 1959 at the Gouverneur First Presbyterian Church, and the couple raised a family on their farm on the River Road near Richville.

Jean is survived by her children: Sally Trombley of Richville, Carol and Ken Parks of Rutland, Rosa and Fred Foster of Gouverneur, Rusty and Tammy Richardson of Norfolk, VA, 12 grandchildren, and 13 great grandchildren. She is also survived by a brother Harold Lacey II of Syracuse, many nieces and nephews. Jean is predeceased by her parents, her husband Harold, three infant children- Grant, Laurie, and Randy Richardson, her brothers Everett, Kenneth, Harry, Richard, and Edgar Lacey, her sisters Joyce Fuller, Margie Shatraw, and Gail Lang.

Jean and Buckshot enjoyed attending as many dances as they could fit in their schedule on Friday and Saturday nights, throughout their lives. She also enjoyed country music and spending time with her family.

Memorial donations in Jean’s memory are encouraged to Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley, 6805 US Hwy 11, Potsdam, NY 13676 or Gouverneur Vol. Rescue Squad, PO Box 164, Gouverneur, NY 13642.

Abbot N. “Abbey” Leonard

Abbot N. “Abbey” Leonard, 84, of Melbourne, FL passed away on June 17, 2020.

Abbey was born on Jan. 12, 1936 in Chicago, IL, son of Harold and Mary Mallise Leonard. He graduated from Long Beach Central, Long Beach, NY and State University of New York Cortland, NY earning Bachelor of Science in Physical Education.

He is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Loretta; his two children, David Leonard (Trina), Lexington, VA, Leanne Leonard, Cedar Knolls, NJ; his stepdaughter, Julie Phelps (Paul), stepson Michael Ells (Janelle). He is also survived by his grandchildren, Kela, Alexis, Katelyn, Kevin, and Carson.

Abbey had a 35-year career as a physical education teacher, coach and athletic director at Gouverneur Central School District, Gouverneur, NY.

In 1969, he began officiating college soccer and basketball as member of the National Intercollegiate Soccer Officials Association (NISOA). Among the notable games he has called are: NCAA Div. III National Finals, the Big East Men’s Championship at Storrs, CT, Sun Belt Championship in Mobile, AL and the Southeast Conference Championships.

He has held the following positions as Rules Interpreter for the Northern New York Soccer Officials Association, New York State Intercollegiate Soccer Officials Association, Chief Clinician and Director of Instruction at the National Academy. In 1983, he was selected to participated in the FIFA referees instruction course at Lilleshall Hall National Sports Centre, England. Abbey served as President of National Intercollegiate Soccer Official Association from 1995-1996 and at the end of his tenure he was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame.

Abbey found time to be a golf coach, basketball referee and President of Gouverneur Country Club in Gouverneur.

Upon retirement, he joined the Mid Coast Officials Association’s Basketball Officiating Team in 1999 and was a member through 2015. He was registered with the Florida High School Athletic Association for 16 years and 12 years as a Rank 1 Official. In 2005 and 2007 he refereed 6A Championship at Lakeland Center, Lakeland, FL.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to Vitas Healthcare, 5425 S. US 1 Highway Rockledge, FL 32955.

Roy Seavey

Roy Earnest Seavey, age 91, of Gouverneur, passed away on June 24, 2020 at the RiverLedge Nursing Home and Rehabilitation in Ogdensburg where he resided for a short time.

Visitation was at French Funeral Home, Gouverneur on Saturday, June 27 with funeral service following. Burial is at Riverside Cemetery in Gouverneur. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Roy was born on April 16, 1929 in Gouverneur to the late Roy Edward and Mary (Wheater) Seavey.

He attended Gouverneur Central School. He married Barbara E. Rice on July 25, 1954 at the Gouverneur Methodist Church with Rev. Wood officiating.

Roy worked as a dairy farmer all of his life. For ten years he worked on a farm on Rock Island Road then went back home on the Seavey Farm to work with his father and brother on the family farm.

He had also worked as a painter for Merkley Painting Co. and worked as a veterinary assistant for Dr. Harland for several years.

Roy enjoyed driving motorcycle, bowling in the Sunday Co-ed league, hunting, and showing cattle in 4-H. He was an avid dog lover. He spent his retirement walking and caring for his pets.

In addition to his wife, Barbara, of Gouverneur, Roy is survived by a daughter and son-in-law Rochelle and John Pratt of Gouverneur; a sister Florence Whitney of California; three granddaughters and their spouses, Morgan and Duane Neaves, Erin and Shawn Hays and Sarah and Justin Fitzgerald; seven great grandchildren Jillian, Harley, Ethan, Electa, Elise, Jayda and Zachary, and several nieces and nephews.

Roy is predeceased by a brother, Charles Seavey, and a sister Viola Case.

Donations may be made in Roy’s memory to Friends 4 Pound Paws, PO Box 394, Gouverneur NY 13642, American Heart Association, P.O. Box 3049, Syracuse, NY 13220 or American Cancer Society, 6725 Lyons St., P.O. Box 7, E. Syracuse, NY 13057.

Marlene A. Quarry

Marlene A. Quarry, age 80, of Gouverneur, passed away on June 24, 2020 at her home under the care of her family and hospice.

Private visitation will be held at French Funeral Home in Gouverneur. Her funeral was held on Monday, June 29, 2020 at 10 a.m. in the Fullerville Cemetery. Condolences may be made online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Marlene was born in Fowler on February 11, 1940 to the late John H. and Louetta M. (Lacy) Backus. She went to several Gouverneur area schools and graduated from Harrisville High School in 1958. She attended night school to receive a certificate to be a teacher’s aide. She worked as a teacher’s aide at All Saints Academy in Middletown, RI for 7 years before retiring in June of 2005. She had also operated a ceramic shop in Middletown and was very interested in genealogy. Marlene loved to sing with her family and in church and enjoyed reading.

Marlene married Robert N. Quarry, Jr. on September 17, 1960 at the Fullerville Community Church.

In addition to her husband, Robert, Marlene is survived by six children, Jan and her husband, Norman Borgeson, Ann Quarry, Loretta Granger, Roland Quarry, Douglas Quarry, and Christopher Quarry and his fiancé, Henry Gerwig, and a sister, Mavis Cole. She is also survived by three grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Marlene is predeceased by a son, John Quarry, and siblings, Roland Backus, John “Junior” Backus, Douglas Backus, Donald Backus, Elaine Morrissiey, Thelma Chapin, and Madeline Closs.

Donations in memory of Marlene may be made to St. Lawrence County Cancer Fund, PO Box 291, Canton NY 13617.

Death Notice: Randy L. Youngs

Randy L. Youngs, age 72, of Richville passed away unexpectedly on Monday, June 29, 2020 at his home.

In keeping with Randy’s wishes, there will be no services. Burial will be private at Maple Grove Cemetery in Richville. Arrangements are entrusted to French Funeral Home, Gouverneur. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Donations may be made in Randy’s memory to the Richville Volunteer Fire Department, 71 Main St. Richville, NY 13681 or to the Richville Playground Fund c/o Richville Town Hall, 87 Main St., Richville, NY 13681.

Gloria Jean Stevenson

Gloria Jean Stevenson passed away on June 11, 2020 after a lengthy, severely painful and difficult battle with Pancreatic Cancer. Gloria fought long and hard, outliving everyone’s expectations, and was grateful just to make it another day; at the end she was nearly comatose and passed peacefully.

Gloria (one of fourteen brothers and sisters) was born on August 5, 1948 in Lowville, New York to Veronica Rita and Frederick Joseph LaFlair. A fiercely independent and strong woman, Gloria raised three boys in Gouverneur, New York; worked as a Contract Administrator for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers throughout the United States; served as an Administrative Assistant for the Regional Security Office in the Cairo Egypt Embassy for the U.S. State Department; and ultimately retired in 2005, as a Project Manager at the Pacific Telehealth and Technology Hui in Honolulu Hawaii - developing software for the subsequent deployment of what is now well known as “Telehealth.”

Gloria treated everyone she met with dignity and respect; constantly considering their cultural and emotional status, and tried to help anyone in need. She made a real difference to literally thousands of people throughout her life and career, especially during her tireless efforts as a Federal Emergency Management Agency responder for numerous Natural Disaster deployments both within the United States and various locations throughout the world.

Gloria was preceded in death by her parents Veronica Rita and Frederick Joseph LaFlair, her sister Margaret Rose, and her brother Frederick (Ricky) LaFlair.

Survivors – Gloria is survived by her husband Bruce Wayne Stevenson (TX); her three biological sons Ernest Bishop (NY), Philip Bishop (NY), and Darren Bishop (TN); her daughter Carla Stevenson (TX) and her son Wayne Stevenson (IN); ten grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews, and other family members.

Service – Gloria’s immediate family will celebrate her life privately, and request that donations be made to the Hospice Society in lieu of flowers.

Joan H. Howe, 86

Joan H. Howe, age 86, formerly of Gouverneur and Carthage, passed away on June 12, 2020 at University Hospital in Syracuse.

Arrangements for her burial are private with French Funeral Home in Gouverneur. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com. Donations in her memory may be made to the Make a Wish Foundation at www.wish.org or Make-A-Wish® America, Gift Processing 1702, East Highland Ave., Suite 400, Phoenix, AZ 85016.

Joan was born on April 30, 1934 in West Carthage to the late Bernard W. and Ruth E. (Mack) Hall along with her siblings, Pat, Dick and Bob. She was raised by her grandparents, Jim and Esther Mack. Joan went to school in Naumburg and married Robert C. Howe on December 27, 1952 at St. Michael’s Church in Antwerp. The couple lived in Antwerp and Carthage before moving to Gouverneur. Mr. Howe passed away on June 14, 2018.

She worked as a real estate agent for Century 21, was the manager of the Fabric Tree in Watertown and loved to volunteer at the St. James Outreach Center in Gouverneur. She enjoyed sewing, knitting, crocheting, swimming and sitting around the pool. When she was young, she enjoyed horseback riding and summers at Wanakena. As the years progressed, Joan enjoyed time on the St. Lawrence River, playing Yahtzee, and playing cards with a glass of wine.

Most importantly, Joan is survived by her three sons, James Howe, Jeff Howe and his wife, Michelle, and John Howe and his wife, Kathy, 7 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren with 1 more on the way, and 1 great-great grandchild. Joan is predeceased by a granddaughter, Kristen Schroy, and her husband, Robert Howe.

Marjorie A. Perkins

Marjorie A. Perkins, a longtime resident of Rowley Street, Gouverneur, passed away on Tuesday, June 9, 2020, surrounded by her family after a brief illness.

Marjorie is pre-deceased by her husband, Francis G. Perkins, who passed away in December 2003, and also predeceased by her two brothers, Henry and Robert Seymour. Marjorie is survived by her five children; Rodney Perkins, Hermon; Pamela Doty, Gouverneur; Karen Coutermarsh, Theresa; Amy and Tom Jordan, Antwerp; Sara and Scott Robinson, Boxford, MA, and her beloved nine grandchildren and nineteen great grandchildren, her sister, Barbara Thomas, of Colton, N.Y. and several nieces and nephews.

Marjorie was born in S. Colton on October 15th 1928 to the late William and Belva Stowe Seymour. Upon her graduation from Colton High School in 1945, she was employed as Branch Manager of the Western Union office in Potsdam, NY.

Marjorie married Francis on September 16, 1950 at the St. Paul's Roman Catholic Church in South Colton. After five years at Western Union, Marjorie and Francis relocated to Gouverneur to start their family, where he was employed by Niagara Mohawk until his retirement.

Marjorie devoted her life to her husband and family. She enjoyed their family camping trips, tending to her flower gardens, sewing everything from formal gowns to Halloween costumes, knitting and her card group. Being a long-time parishioner of St. James Catholic Church, Marjorie enjoyed her time at the St. Vincent De Paul Outreach Center, as well as their patrons.

Marjorie's graveside service (with social distancing) was held on Monday, June 15, at 3p.m. at the St. Patrick's Cemetery in Colton, with Fr. Stephen Rocker presiding.

Memorial donations in Marjorie's memory can be made to a charity of one's choice, and condolences may be shared with the family at www.buckfuneralhome.com .

Beatrice K. Stone, 90

Beatrice K. Stone, 90, formerly of Gouverneur, died Friday, June 12, 2020, at Samaritan Summit Village, Watertown, where she had been resident for a short time. She had resided in Gouverneur for most of her life.

There will be a private graveside service for Mrs. Stone at the Fullerville Cemetery in the Town of Fowler. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home, Gouverneur. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Born on July, 10, 1929, in Emeryville (NY), she was the daughter of Roy and Jennie (Finley) Durham. She attended a one-room schoolhouse in the Town of Fowler and later graduated from Harrisville Central High School. After high school she worked for a time at the Crystal Palace Restaurant, Gouverneur; and later assisted her husband with the management of his septic service business

Beatrice was married to Clyde H. “Smokey” Stone on May 2, 1947, at the First United Methodist Church, Gouverneur, with Rev. Harold A. Thomas officiating. Mr. Stone, a longtime employee of the Village Of Gouverneur DPW, and owner of Smokey’s Sewer Service, died on August 8, 1999.

Mrs. Stone loved to read, enjoyed family camping trips and holiday get-togethers and adored the time she was able to spend with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, she was a very special mother and a loving “Gram” to her grandkids. She also loved to cook and was well-known for her home-made donuts and bread, macaroni soup and, most importantly, her Halloween Popcorn Balls, which were a hit for the young and old alike. She will be dearly missed by her loving family.

Surviving are two sons, Roy (Betty), of Gouverneur; and Jeffrey (Cyndi), of Lake George; three daughters, Iris Bennett, of Baldwinsville; Patricia Collins, of Gouverneur; and Jenny (Richard) Sterling, of Watertown; Ten grandchildren, Barry Stone, Diane (Larry) Weaver, Herbert (Janie) Collins, Peggy Placated, Tammy (Dan) Fetcie , Bobbi (Joe) Jenne and Sean (Crystal) Sterling, Eric Parow, Brandy Parow and Jordan Shippee; several great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Marjorie Finley and Margaret Thomas, both of Fine.

Mrs. Stone was predeceased by her parents, her husband; two sisters, Alice Regan, and Ruth Durham (infant); a brother James Durham (infant); and a grandson, John J. Washburn.

Bonniebelle McEathron

It is with great sadness that I announce, we have lost our beloved Bonniebelle McEathron, born in Gouverneur NY on September 15, 1961 to Peter and Dorothy Cutrie Kerwin. Bonniebelle was known for her strength and spunk. She was an avid Harley Rider, enjoyed spending her time on the water, and with her grandchildren. Bonniebelle enjoyed dancing and music. She worked as a construction worker for Northland Associates and Clover Construction. She loved gardening and a cold one with good friends. Bonniebelle was married to Herbert McEathron of Gouverneur in 1979, ending in friendship, together they share one child Makenzie M McEathron, 35 of Marcellus NY. Bonniebelle has three grandchildren, Cameryn Young, Hannahbell Young and Collynjesse Young of Marcellus NY. She is also survived by her brothers and sisters, Robert Kerwin of Gouverneur, Kathleen Harrington of Marcellus, Kim Kerwin of Gouverneur, Randy Kerwin of Gouverneur and several nieces and nephews. Bonnie was predeceased by her sisters Wilma Nolle and Joann Woodrow. A celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Jimmy Smith Sr.

Jimmy Smith Sr., 71, passed away on Wednesday, June 3, 2020 at his home.

There are no funeral services as Jimmy requested and arrangements are with the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur.

Jimmy was born in Gouverneur on May 15, 1949, the son of Maitland and Thelma (Dewey) Smith.

He graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1968 and entered the United States Army, serving his country for three years.

Jimmy worked for Ritchie Brothers Construction, Roger J. All of Hartford, CT, Harron’s Electric, Tom Stowell Plumbing, and in self-employed construction. He was a life member of the Canton VFW and the Star Lake American Legion. Jimmy enjoyed hunting, 4 wheeling, listening and playing music. Jimmy loved watching his birds, in fact, he named them all.

He was previously married to Candy Countryman

Jimmy is survived by his companion Dianne Brotherton of 38 years, his 2 sons Jimmy Smith Jr. of Gouverneur, Kenny and Crystal Smith of Fowler, his sisters Sally and Jerry Filiatrault of Canton, Miki Hopper of Peru, NY, Shermie and Ronnie Warner of Dexter, his grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents and his brother-in-law Terry Hopper.

Bertha Ann Kirker

Bertha Ann Kirker, age 83, formerly of Gouverneur, passed away on May 26, 2020.

Bertha was born on August 14, 1936 in Gouverneur. She was a daughter of the late Roy Robert and Ida Mae (Rushlo) Watson. Bertha grew up in Edwards and graduated from the Edwards High School in 1954.

She married Robert “Bob” C. Kirker on March 21, 1956. The couple owned and operated their dairy farm on the Johnstown Road in Gouverneur from 1969 until Mr. Kirker’s death on November 23, 2009. They had previously farmed on the Little Bow Road and for Mr. Kirker’s sister, Dorothy Paro.

Mrs. Kirker enjoyed reading, working on jigsaw puzzles, and helping care for her granddaughter, Chelsey. Bertha also enjoyed sitting on the front porch and watching the comings and goings in the neighborhood.

Her survivors include three daughters and sons-in-law, Joann and Robert McNeil of Antwerp, Jenny and Wayne Debian of Florida, Julie and John Rivers of Harrisville; two sons and a daughter-in-law, James “Tiger” Kirker and Jerry and Tammy Kirker, all of Gouverneur; sisters, Mary Yonkers of Little Falls, Beth “Beppie” and Larry Foster of Potsdam, and brothers, Walter “Sonny” and Donna Watson of Fowler, Donald “Donnie” of Natural Bridge, , William “Willie” and Rita of Florida, and Raymond “Bucky” and Becky Watson of South Edwards. She is also survived by six grandchildren and several great grandchildren.

Bertha is predeceased by a grandson, Ryan W. Kirker, a brother, Edward Roy who died at birth, brother Leland “Lee” and sisters, Lila Jane who died in infancy and Esther Longton and Helen Watson.

Arrangements with French Funeral Home in Gouverneur are private. Burial will be in the South Edwards Cemetery. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Dean F. Carr

Dean F. Carr, 91, passed away on Saturday, May 30, 2020 at Riverledge Health Care in Ogdensburg.

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

Dean was born in Lisbon on July 31, 1928, the son of Earl and Dora (Steacy) Carr.

He attended school in Lisbon and received his general equivalency diploma while serving in the United States Army as military police during the Korean War conflict.

Dean worked for St. Joe Mineral Company and retired from Zinc Corporation of America as a mining foreman.

Dean married Lois Easton with whom he raised his family and Lois passed away in 1982.

He married Marcia Ann Sterling on June 1, 1985.

Dean was a member of the NRA and enjoyed hunting, snowmobiling, motorcycling, gardening, auto mechanics, and taking walks with his beloved dog Shaggy.

He is survived by his wife Marcia, his children Timothy and Cindy of Fowler, James and Kim of Sylvia Lake, Jennifer and Michael Duffy of Watertown, Mitchell and Diane of Gouverneur, Gregory and Christine of Fowler, Patrick and Laura of Fowler, Eric and Kim of Natural Dam, his stepson Ronnie and Darla Lentz of Washington, many grandchildren and great grandchildren. Dean is also survived by his siblings Howard Carr of Gouverneur, Lura Hill of Edwards, Mary Benware of Fowler, several nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his first wife Lois, his parents, brothers Gerald Carr and Owen Carr, and sister Kathleen Dodds.

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

Elaine C. Matott

Elaine C. Matott, 85, passed away on Sunday, May 31, 2020, at her home, surrounded by her family and under the care of Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley.

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

Elaine was born on January 2, 1935 in Gouverneur, the daughter of Roy and Irene (Thomas) Cassaw.

She graduated from Gouverneur High School and then worked as a telephone operator. Elaine eventually worked for Kinney Drugs as a buyer which she retired from 20 years ago.

Elaine was an avid bowler and golfer, loved sewing, and enjoyed spending time with family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Elaine is survived by her children Chris Matott and his companion Peggy Scott, Dody Hilts, Debbie Matott, and Denise Matott, her grandchildren Robert Hilts, Marcus Hilts, and Brandie Matott, great grandchildren Izick and Daniel, nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her parents Roy and Irene, her brothers Walt Cassaw, Bill Cassaw, and Kenneth Cassaw who died as a child, and her sisters Jean Jennings, Phyllis Nichols, and Judy Cassaw.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Elaine’s memory are encouraged to Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley, 6805 US Hwy 11, Potsdam, NY 13676.