Helen Hartle

Helen Patricia Maloy Hartle, 84, passed away on Thursday, April 15, 2021 at her home surrounded by her family and under the care of Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley.

There are no public funeral services at this time and a celebration of life to honor Helen and her husband Ken will be announced this summer. A private burial will be held in East Riverside Cemetery, Gouverneur with the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur.

Helen was born in Gouverneur on June 14, 1936 to William Frederick and Hilda Mamie (Blackmer) Maloy.

She graduated from Gouverneur High School and married Kenneth Lloyd Hartle on August 1, 1953. Ken passed away on January 12th.

Helen worked for JEM Transportation, Groveton Paper Company, and then Kinney Drugs where she worked for 27 years, retiring in 1997 as a benefits coordinator. While working, she found time to serve her community as a member and treasurer of the Dept. of Labor Job Service Employer Committee, a director on the St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce, and as a St. Lawrence County Election Inspector. Helen also was a member of the Gouverneur Business Women’s Club, Gouverneur Garden Club, and the Emerald Greens Golf Club.

Helen and Ken enjoyed the home they built near Somerville for 60 years, their summers at their camp on Lake Bonaparte, wintering in Florida, and spending time with their family.

She is survived by her children Steven and Delinda Hartle, Lorraine Conklin, Karlene and Joe Maloney, David and Connie Hartle, and Mark Hartle, 15 grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews. Helen is predeceased by her husband Ken, sisters Isabel Wicks, Betty Brown, and Marie King, brothers John Maloy and William Maloy.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to honor Helen are encouraged to Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley, 6805 US Hwy. 11, Potsdam, NY 13676.

Trudy Anne Mashaw

Trudy Anne (Popple) Mashaw, 72, passed away on Friday, April 9, 2021 at Upstate Hospital, Syracuse, surrounded by her daughters.

Per Trudy’s wishes, there will be no calling hours or funeral service.

Born May 11, 1948 to Richard and Alice (Plunkett) Popple, she graduated from Gouverneur High School.

Trudy married William E. Mashaw. Mr. Mashaw passed away on January 26, 2014.

Trudy worked various jobs throughout her life including at St. James School, Gouverneur Savings & Loan, the Town of Gouverneur, and Gouverneur Central School, until her retirement.

Surviving are her daughters and their husbands Kelly (Dennis) Forsyth and Kerry (Henry) Price, her grandchildren Stephen Serviss, Staci Serviss, Jada Gale, Hanna Neukirch, and Madison Neukirch, 7 great grandchildren, her sister Diane (Robert) Jennings, sister-in-law Diann Mashaw, brothers-in-law Robert Mashaw and Earl J. Mashaw, several nieces and nephews, and her companion of two years Richard Fisher.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, April 24th from 2:00 to 4:00 pm at Trudy’s home of 68 Johnstown Street in Gouverneur.

Memorial donations in memory of Trudy are encouraged to the Gouverneur Vol. Rescue Squad or Gouverneur Vol. Fire Department.

Gordon Mandigo

Gordon “Gordy” Mandigo, 86, passed away on Tuesday, March 30, 2021 at Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center in Ogdensburg.

Funeral services are private with the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur.

Gordon was born on January 30, 1935, the son of Everett and Margaret (Barnhart) Mandigo.

He married Mary Popple in 1961 and Mary passed away in 2003. Gordy married Patricia DeLorme in 2005 and Pat passed away in 2009.

Gordy worked for the Local Laborers Union for many years.

He is survived by his children Emmett Mandigo of Hermon, Vicky Sharpe of Gouverneur, Patricia Williams of South Carolina, several grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Gordon is also survived by his brother Bert Mandigo of Maine, nieces, and nephews. Gordy is predeceased by his parents, his wives, his sons Timothy “Dale” Weber and Gary M. Mandigo, and his brother Morgan Mandigo.

Memorial donations in honor of Gordy are encouraged to St. Jude Children's Hospital or St. Lawrence County SPCA.

James A. Cole, Sr.

James A. Cole, Sr., 76 of Little Bow Road died Sunday April 4, 2021 at his home.

Born July 6, 1944 in Gouverneur, he was the son of the late John M. and Eleanor Fredenburg Cole. He graduated from Indian River High School in 1961.

Mr. Cole was employed with Timmerman Turkey Farms, LaFargeville, and later at Riverside Iron Works, Gouverneur where he retired as shop foreman. He was also a farmer and did custom hay cutting. Along with Wendall Camfield they did mechanical work on tractors and farm machinery and later he partnered with his son, Jake.

A marriage to Pansy Sawyer ended in divorce. After a twenty-year courtship he married Lisa Storie in 2005.

A kind and generous man, he loved to garden, go berry picking and deer hunting.

Survivors include his wife, Lisa; a son and his wife, James A. “Jake”, Jr. and Betty of Gouverneur; six daughters and three sons-in-law, Isabelle and Wayne Young, Gouverneur, Mary and Wayne Knight, Rossie, Sarah Cole, Gouverneur, Tracy and James Larivere of Vermont, Bobbi Lashua and her companion, Robert Pike, Gouverneur and Sabrina Myers and her companion, Dennis Chartrand of Harrisville; eleven grandchildren; thirteen great grandchildren; two sisters and a brother-in-law, Alice and Brian Draper of Adams and Carol Maiers of Liverpool; two brothers and their wives, Philip and Jennie Cole, deKalb Junction and Harold and Sherry Cole of Redwood.

His parents, a brother, John D. Cole and a sister, Janice Pugliese died before him.

There will be no services at this time.

Arrangements are with Frederick Bros. Funeral Home, Theresa.

Donations may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care of St. Lawrence Valley, 6805 U.S. Highway 11, Potsdam, NY 13676.

To leave a condolence go to www.frederickbrosfuneralhome.com and access the obituary. Click on the Tribute Wall located on the top left.

Donald W. McIntosh

Donald W. McIntosh, age 88, of Gouverneur, passed away unexpectedly in his home on March 30, 2021.

Donald was born on February 19, 1933 in Fullerville, NY to the late Wilbert and Theresa (Dashner) McIntosh. He attended Gouverneur Central School and was on the first wrestling team the school had. In 1953, he entered into the United States Army. He served until his honorable discharge in 1955. He married Kay Cunningham on December 23, 1956 at the Antwerp Methodist Church. The couple recently celebrated 62 years of marriage.

He had worked for the Papermill and Rotundo’s Garage until working for Gouverneur Talc, where he worked for 34 years, retiring in 1997. Donald spent many days at his son’s house doing projects. Together, they restored old gasoline engines and went to old engine shows during summers. He loved going to hunting camp. When he had a spare minute, his children and grandchildren found many projects for him to do. Donald was a “Jack of all trades” and could fix anything. As his son would say, “Dad was rarely ever wrong”, which he would just smile about when they told him. He enjoyed repairing old clocks and loved to hear them run, which was a passion he shared with his daughter. He was a dedicated husband, dad and friend. The legacy he leaves behind is the lives that he touched.

Donald is survived by his wife of 62 years, Kay; a son, David McIntosh of Antwerp; a daughter, Anna Sides, of Gouverneur; five grandchildren, Julie, Mike and Jaime Rose of North Carolina and Samantha and Ricky Sides of Gouverneur; eight great grandchildren, Frances, Mason, Jesse, Johnathan, Kaylie, Miranda, Lexie and Jake of North Carolina, and lastly his daughter, Sherry Shattuck of Gouverneur, whom has been part of the family and a friend for 50 years.

He is predeceased by his parents; four brothers, David, James, Robert and Vernon McIntosh and five sisters, Ora Smith, Eula Robinson, Reitha Daggett, Alice Davison and Betty Daggett.

There will be calling hours for Donald on Wednesday, April 7, 2021 from 1:00-2:00 p.m., with a memorial service immediately following at 2:00 p.m. at French Funeral Home in Gouverneur. Please wear a mask and practice social distancing. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Donald’s memory to the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 3049, Syracuse, NY 13220.

Terrance A. Austin

Terrance A. “Terry” Austin, 81, passed away on Sunday, April 4, 2021 at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Syracuse.

There are no funeral services and burial will be private in Pleasant Lake Cemetery in Brasie Corners with the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur.

Terrance was born on January 11, 1940, the son of Allen “Huck” and Alta Mae (Hutton) Austin.

Upon graduating from high school, he served in the United States Army.

Terry lived most his life in the Gouverneur area and spent some time in Florida before returning to the north country. He worked most of his life as a self employed contractor before retiring to life in Rossie. Terry enjoyed games of chance and his pets.

He is survived by several nieces and nephews. Terry is predeceased by his parents Huck and Alta Mae, his brothers Barry and Tim Austin, and his sister Trudy Mullane.

Willard D. “Bill” Weaver

Willard D. “Bill” Weaver, 93, passed away on Wednesday, March 31, 2021, at his home, surrounded by his family.

A private graveside service for Bill and his late wife Margaret will be held at the Maple Grove Cemetery in Richville with the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur.

Willard was born in Richville on August 22, 1927, the son of Roy and Nina (Cameron) Weaver.

He graduated from Philadelphia High School and married Margaret Fuller on June 1, 1951 at Gouverneur Methodist Church parsonage with Rev. Wood officiating.

Bill worked for several contractors as a construction superintendent, retiring from Northland Associates in Syracuse.

He was a member of the Gouverneur Elks Lodge and Richville Masonic Lodge. Bill enjoyed gardening and spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and his ole friend Heidi, his golden retriever.

Bill is survived by his children Landon and Holly Weaver, Bradley Weaver and Linda Shatraw, his grandchildren Angela and Jason Ferrick, Emily and Thomas Storrin, Sheena and Patrick Hanratty, Joshua and Taylor Weaver, his great grandchildren Christian Gillan, Vincenza Gillan, Hunter Storrin, Landon Storrin, Thomas Storrin, Kurtis Brown, Anthony Hanratty, Grace Hanratty, Owen Hanratty, Khloe Weaver, and Kamden Weaver, a great, great grandson Jaylen Burton, nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, his wife Margaret, an infant son John, infant daughter Catherine, his great grandson Jake Ferrick, his four sisters Sadie Bartholomew, Lisa Bush, Audrey Fuller, and Donna Hatch.

Memorial donations to honor Bill are encouraged to Friends 4 Pound Paws, PO Box 394, Gouverneur, NY 13642.

Karen S. Bressette

On Friday, March 26, 2021, Karen S. Bressette, loving wife, sister, and aunt, passed away at the age of 68.

Karen was born on October 16, 1952 in Gouverneur to Donald and Dorothy (Countryman) Infield.

She was a 1970 graduate of Gouverneur Central School. In 1972, she returned to Gouverneur Central School where she served as the payroll clerk for 41 years until her retirement.

Karen married Steve Bressette in January of 1977.

She enjoyed reading, traveling, and most of all, Karen loved spending time with friends and family, affectionately known as Aunt Karen to all. She also enjoyed 50’s and 60’s music and was active in the Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce.

Karen is survived by her husband Steve, her sister Christine Pike, sister-in-law Donna Infield, sister and brother-in-law Ann and Mike Maroun, mother-in-law Dorothy Bressette, nieces and nephews Amy (Al) Barr, Bill (Jen) Infield, Heather (Brian) Bailey, Kelli Lincoln, Meredith (Shawn) Lauderdale, several beloved great nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, a brother Stephen Infield, father-in-law Steve Bressette Sr., and brother-in-law Mike Pike.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, March 31st at 11:00 am with pastor Dave Hart officiating at the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur and burial to follow at Hailesboro Cemetery. Calling hours will be on Tuesday from 5:00 to 7:00 pm. Please observe public health precautions.

Memorial donations to honor Karen are encouraged to the Food Bank of Central New York or the Food Pantry for the Town of Fowler.

Michelle I. Mastine

On Saturday, March 20, 2021, Michelle I. Mastine, loving Sister, Aunt, and Mother of two daughters passed away at age 45. Michelle was born July 15, 1975, in Watertown, NY to Lynn H. Kio and James E. Mastine.

Michelle was a former Paramedic of Brunswick County Emergency Services. She was living in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina for the last year. She enjoyed her grandbabies, crocheting, cooking, and her dog, Hercules.

She is survived by 2 sisters, Nicki Jo Travis & Laura L. Travis-Ehart, 3 brothers, Theodore R Travis, Jr., Joseph Mastine, and Ronald Mastine. Her two daughters, Kayla Jane Taylor-Fulmer (grandson Kason Dean) also Nikki-Jo Lynn Christy (granddaughter Kyndall Lynn) and several nieces and nephews.

Michelle is preceded in death by her parents Lynn H. Kio, James E. Mastine, and a brother Rodney (Babe) Mastine.

A celebration of life will be held this summer with family. Her resting place will be Hailesboro Cemetery, Hailesboro NY.

Donations may be sent to SECU Hospice House of Brunswick, 955 Mercy Ln, Bolivia NC 28422.

Russell Bice

Russell Bice, 61, known as Russ to most, and Bogger Bice to his closest buddies, made his way to the “Pearly Gates” on March 26th, 2021. He said he wasn’t sure if he would be allowed to enter through the front or if he would have to go around to the side, but one thing is for sure…. he made it just in time for the weekend.

Russell was born on Dec. 9th, 1959 in Gouverneur, New York, to Sonny and Sally Bice.

He attended (barely) Gouverneur Jr./Sr. High School where he competed on the Wrestling team. He claimed he was the one to beat, but could almost never be pinned.

He served in the U.S. Navy and received a General Discharge after realizing that his gypsy soul couldn’t be trapped on a ship for too long.

In 1982, Russell married the “chic from the laundry mat”, Linda, who soon after made him a father to a beautiful little girl who he considered to be his rock. Throughout the years, he made it known to everyone he was proud of and loved his daughter Jessica. He always made sure to tell her she made a good choice when she picked James McDaniel to be her forever. “He is a good egg”, Russ would say.

A proud grandpa is an understatement. Not a day went by that he didn’t brag to someone about how smart and talented his grandson Tre’ was. “That boy is something special, wahhh he has raw talent”, Russell would say.

After separating from Linda, he became quite the ladies’ man and lived life on the wild side, until one day he realized the one who had his heart had been right in front of him the whole time. He settled down with his loving, life-companion, Lorrie. Along with becoming a companion, he also gained the name “Pops” and “Papa”. He loved Michelle, Christina, Karrie, Melissa, and Josh as if they were his own. Before passing he said, “You guys better stick together…. You are sisters”. (Sorry Josh)

Nathaniel, Jeneka, Gabby, and Mackenna made him proud to be their Papa. He enjoyed any time spent with his grandkids.

Russell LOVED his family, Diet Pepsi, and ciggies. He had a blast watching NASCAR, enjoyed hunting and fishing, (or napping in the tree-stand), looked forward to getting a buzz, was the master of the pool table, got worked up when watching sports games, but overall, he just loved living life for the moment.

He was the favorite uncle! From taking “his girls” out on the town, or them taking him to the casino, to helping “his boys” fix whatever needed to be fixed, or just sitting around the fire, he was definitely present.

Russell was always looking to make a quick buck, whether it be convincing someone they could “win her the big one” if they played one more time, helping someone make their visions a reality by remodeling their home, or “turning another man’s junk into his treasure.”

Russ knew he “effed” up and said “I can make a tool to fix just about anything, but I can’t fix this.” (his self). He wanted everyone to know he was sorry, but he died as a result of being stubborn, refusing doctors’ orders, and raising hell for more than 6 decades.

He is preceded in death by his parents Theron and Fern Bice; his life-companion Lorrie McIntosh; his brothers Theron Bice Jr. and Kelvin Bice; his sisters Evelyn Sanders and Michelle Walrath; his nieces Natalie Bice and Jasmine Pankey; and his great-nephew Benjamin Pankey.

He is survived by his brother Nelson Bice (Nancy); his daughter Jessica McDaniel (James); grandson Tre’; his bonus children Michelle Stevens, Christina McIntosh, Karrie McIntosh, Melissa Knapp (Cleon), and Josh McIntosh; his bonus grandchildren Nathaniel, Jeneka, Gabby, and Makenna; his ex-wife Linda Bice; and a slew of cousins, nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

A few Russell lines:

“As long as I owe you, you will never be broke”

“Oh Mylanta!”

“Be good”

“Love you most”

Famous Facebook post: “Hottie Alert”

He was up in the air about having a service because it was a waste of money but we decided to go ahead with it.

Calling hours will be on April 2nd from 5pm-7pm at Greens Funeral Home, in Gouverneur.

Following the service, we will celebrate his life, “Russell style”, listening to some GNR and AC/DC, tipping back a few cold ones, and munching on some food at the Gouverneur V.F.W. We ask that you stop by and re-tell the stories he can no longer tell.

Alyce M. Sullivan

Alyce M. Sullivan, 94, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 21, 2021 in Watertown, NY at the Hospice of Jefferson County.

Alyce was born on April 2, 1926 in Gouverneur, NY as the daughter of Roy and Catherine (Hayden) Stevens and spent her youth there.

On June 8, 1947, Alyce married Paul T. Sullivan in Gouverneur at the St. James Catholic Church with Rev. Frederick P. Diviney officiating.

Together, Alyce and Paul owned and operated Sullivan’s Store in Balmat for over 20 years. Prior to that time, Alyce was employed as a telephone operator. They lived in Fowler for over 50 years and also spent their summers at the family cottage on Sylvia Lake.

Alyce enjoyed being with family, friends, playing cards, crossword puzzles, bingo, and bowling. Being an avid fan of the Syracuse University Orange, she watched all of their basketball games.

Alyce, predeceased by her husband Paul, is survived by her three children, Peter T. Sullivan and his wife Janice of Lampe, Missouri, Amy C. (Sullivan) Brooker and her husband Alan of Buena Vista, Colorado, and Marry A. (Sullivan) Ciccarelli and her husband Raymond of Bolton Landing, NY.

Alyce also leaves behind five grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren as well as her brother William Stevens, her late brother Roy Stevens, Jr., and her late sister Sally Woodward, all of Gouverneur, NY.

A funeral service in her memory will be held at a later date with the arrangement being handled by the Green Funeral Home of Gouverneur.

Howard Michael Saidel

Howard Michael “Mike” Saidel, age 74, of Gouverneur, passed away unexpectedly at home on March 17, 2021.

Calling hours will be held at French Funeral Home on Friday, March 26, 2021 from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Please wear a face mask and practice social distancing. His burial service will follow in the Anshe Zophen Cemetery in Ogdensburg at 3:00 p.m. with his brother, Dr. Robert Saidel, officiating.

Mike was born on August 20, 1946 in Gouverneur to the late Bennie and Hannah (Needle) Saidel. He graduated from Gouverneur Central School in 1964 and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from Clarkson University after serving in the United States Navy.

He married Brenda L. Smith on December 31, 1974 at the Gouverneur United Methodist Church with the groom’s uncle, Max Levison, officiating. Brenda passed away on December 31, 2020.

Mike had been the owner and operator of several businesses including Penguin Lanes in Gouverneur, Market Lanes, Saidel’s Gas and Grocery, and Mike’s Trophies, all in Potsdam, and Awards North in North Carolina. He had also worked as a supervisor for Betco in North Carolina and most recently as a driver for Kinney Drugs in Gouverneur.

Mike loved sports. He watched Syracuse football and basketball, was a Clarkson Golden Knights season-ticket holder, and enjoyed bowling with Brenda in younger days. But above all, he was a wonderful father and grandfather.  He loved taking vacations with his family and was always putting them first.  When he wasn’t spending time with family, he enjoyed working on his lawn and home improvement projects.

His survivors include four children, Marta Whiteford and her husband, Frank Lee, Melissa Fone and her husband, Randy, Douglas Whiteford, Jr., Anthony Saidel and his wife, Jeanne, brothers, Louis and Cheryl Saidel, Dr. Robert and Rita Saidel, sisters, Karen Keenan, Deborah Saidel, Melissa and Wayne Jones, and Dr. Grace and Leo Wlasowicz. Mike is also survived by his wife’s family, 13 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren with one on-the-way, and many nieces and nephews.

Mike is predeceased by his parents, his wife, Brenda, daughter-in-law, Mary Kay Whiteford, brother-in-law, John Keenan, a grandson, Nicholas Whiteford, and a nephew, Ryan Saidel.

Donations in memory of Mike may be made to Ryan’s Wish Foundation, PO Box 326, Gouverneur NY 13642.

Shirley B. Layo

Shirley B. Layo, 91, formerly of Gouverneur, NY and most recently of Cicero, NY, passed away on Thursday, March 18th.

She was predeceased by 3 brothers, George, Donald and Lester Bayne. Shirley is survived by her loving husband of 41 years, Stan; five children, Michael (Ann) Maroun, Marie (John) Maroun-Smith, Nancy Maroun, Lorilyn (James) Brown and Patti Layo; grandchildren, Meredith, Shelby, Tenille, Ashley, Damon and a number of great-grandchildren.

No services will be held. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in Shirley's memory to a charity of your choice.

To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.newcomersyracuse.com

Laurie A White, 46

Laurie A White, 46 of Helena NY passed away after a courageous long fight with ovarian cancer on March 9, 2021 with her loving husband at her side. Funeral services will be private and at the convenience of the family funeral arrangements are with the Phillips Memorial Home in Massena NY.

Laurie graduated from Gouverneur Central School in June 1994. She met and married the love of her life, Kevin M. White in 1998 of Helena, NY. Together they had two beautiful children, Leanne White of Massena and Brian White of Helena. Laurie's wish was to be a “Grammy", she was blessed with two grandchildren Mila and Sydnee! She lived and breathed for those girls!

Laurie is the daughter of Jack and Linda Hutton. (Predeceased) She has two siblings Robert and Tracey Hutton of Fowler and Lisa Hutton of Gouverneur.

Laurie has left behind many nieces and nephews, great nieces and great nephews, her in laws Tom and Loretta White of Helena whom she adored!

Her favorite things to do was be around family and friends, listen to gospel music and shop with her mother in law, Loretta.

In lieu of flowers, you can donate to the Gouverneur Breast Cancer fund PO Box 64 Gouverneur NY 13642 which was so important to Laurie! Friends and Family are encouraged to leave memories and share stories of Laurie at www.PhillipsMemorial.com

Charles Bartholomew

Charles Robert “Bart” Bartholomew, 93, passed away on Friday, March 12, 2021, at his home with his family at his side.

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

Charles was born in Gouverneur on September 9, 1927, the son of Herbert O. and Edna P. (Butler) Bartholomew.

A lifelong resident of Gouverneur, he grew up in the area until enlisting in the United States Navy during WW II. Upon his honorable discharge, he graduated from high school and served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War.

Upon his return to Gouverneur, Bart married Jacqueline A. Young on December 31, 1955.

He worked for the United States postal service from 1956 to 1984 as a mail carrier and a rural carrier. Upon retirement, Charlie opened Rainbow Video Store with his family which they operated from 1985 to 2000. The family also owned and operated the Clearview Restaurant for four years.

Bart was a life member of the Gouverneur VFW and the American Legion and years ago served on the St. Lawrence County Draft Board.

He had a passion for old movies which he developed when he worked for the Gralyn Theater as a projectionist. Charlie also enjoyed watching his football and loved his dogs which began back when he started as a mail carrier up until the time he passed away.

Bart is survived by his wife Jackie, his sons Michael C. Bartholomew of Watertown, Donald H. and Deborah A. Bartholomew of Titusville, FL, Jason J. and Olga Bartholomew of Massena, his grandchildren Matthew Bartholomew, Brittany Bartholomew and her companion Mark Ferguson, several nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents and his brothers Herbert Bartholomew and Donald Bartholomew.

Memorial donations in memory of Charlie are encouraged to Friends 4 Pound Paws or Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley.

John Bush

John E. Bush, age 87, of Gouverneur, passed away on March 12, 2021 at his daughter’s home in Gouverneur under the care of his family and hospice.

There will be a Celebration of Life held at the Richville Fire Department at a later date. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home in Gouverneur. Condolences, memories, and photos can be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

John was born on May 13, 1933 in Oswegatchie to the late John G.W. and Sarah “Ella” Ellen (Bebee) Bush. A marriage to Violet Bush ended in divorce. A second marriage to Edith McDermot ended in separation.

John worked for the Natural Dam Paper Mill for 29 years, retiring as a roll wrapper. He enjoyed camping, farming when he was younger, playing Bingo, and working on crossword puzzles and word searches. He loved animals, hanging out and talking with friends and family, making jokes, and watching his grandchildren in demolition derbies.

He is survived by 9 children, Robert Sr. and Sheila, Ronald and Lena, Roger, daughter-in-law, Amy Hendrick, Ricky and Brandi, Roxanne, Rosanne and Carlton Wallace, Rebecca and Patrick Williams, Justin Ross Gilmour, and Devon Williams, a brother, Earl and Kim Bush, and a sister, Mary and Bucky Boyea. He is also survived by 21 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

John is predeceased by brothers, Nelson, Richard, Alex, William “Stewart”, George “Robert”, Clifford, and Francis “Frank”, and sisters, Jane Paro, Myrtle Gotham, and Doris Hubbard.

Joseph Carl Pistolesi

“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” Psalm 147:3

Joseph Carl Pistolesi, 72, passed away on Monday, February 22, 2021, surrounded by his family.

Funeral services are private with the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur and spring burial will be held in New St. James Cemetery, Gouverneur.

Memorial donations in honor of Joe are encouraged to the St. James School, 164 E. Main Street, the Friends of Gouverneur Wrestling, 92 Rowley Street, or Gouverneur Football Boosters, 16 Depot Street, Gouverneur, NY 13642.

Joseph was born on October 10, 1948 in Gouverneur, the son of Marianno “Mario” and Maybelle (Whittaker) Pistolesi.

He graduated from Gouverneur High School in the class of 1966 and served in the United States Army Reserves.

Joe married his high school sweetheart, Carolyn Tyler, on June 20, 1970 at St. James Catholic Church in Gouverneur with Msg. McCarthy officiating.

While raising their family, Joe and Carolyn owned and operated the family business, the Clearview Restaurant, until 2003. They continued to operate the Clearview Motel to this day. He adored his staff and customers, many of whom became lifelong friends.

Joe was a member of the Board of Directors of the Gouverneur Savings and Loan, Pine Tree Hunting Club, Gouverneur Lions Club, Elks Lodge, Gouverneur Investment Club, and St. James Church. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating, cooking, and entertaining his friends and family, especially his grandchildren.

Joe is survived by his wife Carolyn, their children Bridgette and Joel LaPierre, Clara and Shawn Cummings, Joey and Ryan Shelly, and their grandchildren Cassidy, Grace, Corinne, Joseph, Mae, Ethan, Graham, Nora, Frances, and Marianna. He is also survived by his sisters Mona and Lynn Allen, Jeanie and John Leeson, Jeanette and John Perry, his mother-in-law Marjory Tyler, his sister-in-law Marilyn and Sheldon Maine, brother-in-law Rick and Kathleen Tyler, many nieces, nephews, and extended family members. Joe is predeceased by his parents and his father-in-law Richard Tyler.

Joe spent his entire life helping others through food, drinks, laughter, and time spent with people. He loved God and went to mass weekly with his children and grandchildren and cooked for many parish activities. Joe was involved in many numerous community events and also quietly helped others in ways we will never know. He was always up for a road trip, a hunt, a sailboat trip, or any adventure as long as it was with his wife, family, or friends...he was ready to go! His love of adventure, people, a good joke, and socializing will continue on through his family and friends. God’s speed to paradise...in a red convertible.

Helen A. Gamble

Helen A. Martusewicz Gamble, 99½, passed away peacefully in her sleep, Friday, February 12, 2021 at Samaritan Summit Village, Watertown, NY.

Born on August 13, 1921 in Turin, NY, she was a daughter of Antoni and Anna Jeszynski Pogozelski. In 1939, she married Michael Martusewicz and they had four daughters. The couple owned and operated a farm in Pamelia, NY, for several years before purchasing and operating the LeRay Hotel, Evans Mills, NY, for 11 years. Michael passed away in 1959. Then she sold the hotel and worked at Fachiney’s, Watertown, NY for a number of years.

In 1970, she married Carl Gamble and he passed away in 1982. During these years, she managed a number of local restaurants. After retiring, she traveled and enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren.

Helen was a member of the Black River American Legion Ladies Auxiliary and a communicant of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Evans Mills, NY.

Survivors include three daughters and three sons-in-law, Joan and Norm Whiteford, Oxbow, NY, Kathy and Gary Rust, Gouverneur, NY, Patricia and Frank Folino, Rodman, NY; 15 grandchildren; 38 great-grandchildren; 29 great-great-grandchildren; a sister, Mary Krager, Lowville, NY, numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Her parents, two husbands, a son in infancy, a daughter, Jane Gleason, step-daughter, Connie Cole and seven siblings all passed away previously.

Memorial Service will be announced in the spring and burial will be in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, Evans Mills, NY. Arrangements are with Frederick Bros. Funeral Home, Theresa, NY. To leave condolences go to www.frederickbrosfuneralhome.com and access the obituary. Click on the Tribute Wall located on the top left.

Lawrence “Jack” Matice

A graveside service for Lawrence “Jack” Matice, 67, of Gouverneur, will be held in the spring at the Notre Dame Cemetery.

Mr. Matice died on Monday, February 15, 2021, in his daughter's home, surrounded by his family and under the care of Hospice, following a battle with Cancer.

Arrangements are under the direction of LaRue & Pitcher Funeral Home, Ogdensburg.

Lawrence V. Matice or “Jack” as he was known, was born on April 12, 1953, in Gouverneur, NY. He was the son of the late Paul and Vivian (Fields) Matice. He attended Gouverneur High School. On July 14, 1973, he married Pamela M. Carter at St. Raphael’s Church in Heuvelton. He worked as a heavy machine operator for a feed mill and most recently for IMERY Marble. He was a member of the Gouverneur American Legion Post 0065, the owner and operator of the Poor Man’s Country Club (his hunting camp), he enjoyed hunting, fishing, Karaoke and Scratch off lottery tickets. Most of all he loved spending time with his family and his beloved grandchildren and great grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, Pamela Matice, his daughter; Tonya Matice and her companion Joe Blair of Gouverneur, his son; Scott Matice and his wife Jill of Gouverneur. He is survived by his grandchildren; Devin Matice, Lacee Wiestner, Jasmine Matice, Tucker Wiestner, Reid Matice, Kylie Currier, and Brendan Currier. Two great grandchildren Levi Verburg and Grace Matice also survive him. He leaves behind his brothers; Timothy “Tike” Matice and his wife Lynn of Gouverneur, Mitchell “Frog” Matice, and his companion Carol of Gouverneur, Gene “Pene” Matice, and his wife Beth of Gouverneur, Merton “Chick” Matice of Gouverneur, Dave “Burley” Matice, Michael “Buck” Matice of Gouverneur and Donnie “Twiggy” Matice and his wife Mary of Macomb.

He was predeceased by his parents; Paul and Vivian Matice, his brothers; Wayne “Shakey” Matice and Terry “Elvira” Matice and his sister; Lucrita “Sis” Besaw.

Donations in Jack’s memory may be made to Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley 6805 State Route 11 Potsdam, NY 13676.

Online condolences may be made at www.LaRuePitcher.com.

Lorraine I. Bell

Lorraine I. (Morse) Bell, age 79, of Spragueville, NY, passed away on February 18, 2021 at Rochester General Hospital after a long fight with kidney failure.

She was born on February 18, 1942 in Gouverneur to the late Howard and Marjorie (Hills) Morse. She graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1960 and then married Jack Bell on June 25, 1960 at the Spragueville United Methodist Church.

With her husband, she was a member of St. Lawrence Valley Ayrshire Club, NY State Ayrshire Club and Ayrshire Breeders Association. She enjoyed her time spent on the farm and really loved her cats. She enjoyed traveling with Jack to National Ayrshire Conventions and showing cattle at county, state and national shows. She loved spending time with her family and made many friends through her journeys.

Lorraine is survived by her husband, Jack Bell; three sisters, Norma (Joe) Reynolds, Linda (Larry) Hance and Judy (Kevin) Bigalow; a daughter, Melody Hoffman and a son, Robert Bell. Six grandchildren, Ben and Emma Hoffman, Cody and Alicia Hoffman, Robert and Keirsten Bell, Remminton Bell and Shelby, Emma Bell and Ross Bell; 12 great grandchildren, Grayson, Delaney, Laila and Jack Hoffman, Carter Whitmarsh, Lucy and Sadie Hoffman, Robert III, Oaklynn and Reign Bell, and Gunner and Grayden Bell and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

She is predeceased by her parents, Howard and Marjorie Morse; a brother, Gary Morse and two daughters, Robin and Kimberly Bell.

There will be calling hours on Saturday, February 27, 2021 from 12:00-2:00 p.m. with a funeral service immediately following at 2:00 p.m. at French Funeral Home, Gouverneur, for family and close friends. Wearing face masks and social distancing guidelines are to be followed. There will be a graveside service in the spring at Spragueville Cemetery. Condolences, pictures and memories may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Donations may be made in Lorraine’s memory to Fresenius Kidney Care, 22571 Summit Dr., Watertown, NY 13601 or to The National Kidney Foundation of Central New York, 731 James St., Suite 200, Syracuse, NY 13203.