Emma Forbes

Emma Forbes, 61, passed away on Tuesday, December 28, 2021 at her home.

A celebration of life will be announced and held in the spring of next year. Arrangements are with the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur.

Emma was born in Gouverneur on October 18, 1960, the daughter of Vernon and Marie (Denesha) Forbes.

She graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1979 and lived most of her life in the area as well as Florida.

Emma had worked at the local Navy recruiting office, enjoyed collecting anything Native American and unicorns or spending time with her dogs.

She is survived by her companion James Sanders, her siblings Art Forbes, Peggy Cole, Sonya Forbes, Robin O’Neil, Sherry Reinhart, and Kitty McAdam, nieces and nephews. Emma is predeceased by her parents Vernon and Marie, her stepfather Harvey Forbes, a brother Joe Forbes, and sisters Crystal, Tina Marie, and Laurie Ann Forbes.

Memorial donations in memory of Emma are encouraged to Friends 4 Pound Paws, PO Box 394, Gouverneur, NY 13642.

June Walrath

June (Durant) Walrath, 82, passed away on Sunday, December 26, 2021 at Samaritan Medical Center in Watertown.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday, January 2nd from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm with a memorial service at 12:30 pm at Stepping Stone Ministries in Fowler with Orville Eacker officiating. A private burial will be held in Hermon Cemetery with the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur.

June was born in Gouverneur on June 14, 1939, the daughter of Ernest and Dorothy (Briggs) Durant.

She attended Gouverneur schools, eventually receiving her GED and graduated from Paul Dean Beauty School in Watertown.

June married Keith K. Walrath on August 7, 1954, and the couple recently celebrated their 67th wedding anniversary.

She worked as a hairdresser, a homemaker, and had been a child care provider.

June was a member of Stepping Stone Ministries and enjoyed making crafts, knitting, crocheting, square-dancing, and camping.

She is survived by her husband Keith, her daughters Paula J. Walrath of Gouverneur, Pamela J. and Christopher Kelley of Weedsport, her 3 grandchildren Kenneth McCarthy, Kariann McCarthy, and Katie Kelley, her great grandchildren Brooke, Bailey, and Logan, several nieces and nephews. June is predeceased by her parents, an infant son Gary Keith Walrath, 3 sisters Marie Durant who passed in infancy, Marion Woods, and Reta Reed.

Memorial donations are encouraged to Stepping Stone Ministries.

Paul R. Reed

Paul R. Reed, 92, of Richville, died, December 23, 2021, at his home, Allen-Denesha Funeral Home, DeKalb Junction, entrusted with arrangements.

A graveside service was held on December 29, 2021, 11:00 am at Maple Grove Cemetery, Richville, Pastor David Hart officiating.

Paul is survived by his sons Dorwin and wife Pamela Gore of Gouverneur, Richard and his wife Colleen Reed of Gouverneur, Roger and his wife Donna Reed of Canton, daughter, Amy Jo and her husband Michael Weil of Canton, grandchildren, Jamie Salvatore and her companion Corey Clarke, Alexander and his companion, Jacklynne Durham, T.J. Gore and his companion Paige Bango, Bethany Gore, Christopher Reed, Jason Reed, Travis and his wife Leslie Reed, Ashley and her husband Curtis Constance, and Connor Reed, great grandchildren, Henry Gore, Jordan Reed, Taya Constance, Lia Constance and Holden DeShane. He was predeceased by a brother Ross Reed.

Paul was born on October 30,1929, in Syracuse, the son of the late Arlie F. and Marjorie J. Gray Reed. He married Reta Durant on February 6, 1961, she predeceased him on January 13, 2015. Paul retired in 1987 as the supervisor for NY State DOT, Hailesboro, after his retirement he was the clerk of the works for Marble City Affordable Housing, Gouverneur. Paul owned and operated Reed’s Market in Richville, from 1946 – 1961. Paul was the former President and board member of the Maple Grove Cemetery, was a past chief and member of the Richville Fire Department and was a member of the Spruce Mountain Hunting Club. He loved to hunt and fish.

Contributions in lieu of flowers can be made to the United Church of Richville or the Maple Grove Cemetery. Online condolences can be made at www.allendeneshafuneralhome.com

Wilson Robert Bickford

Wilson Robert Bickford, 62, of Fowler, NY passed away on Saturday Dec. 18, 2021, at Claxton Hepburn Medical Center with his wife and daughter by his side. Funeral arrangements are private with the French Funeral Home, Gouverneur. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Wilson was born on Feb 28, 1959, the son of Robert “Ivan” and Madeleine (Wilson) Bickford of Fowler. Upon graduation from Gouverneur High School in 1977, he went on to work at Massey’s Furniture Barn. He married his High School sweetheart Glenda Fuller on Aug. 12, 1978. It was at this time that he began employment at the Gouverneur Talc Company where he stayed until 2002.

Wilson had a love for both music and art, he was self-taught in both. He played in various bands since he was a teenager, playing guitar, harmonica, vocals, and even teaching himself the saxophone for a few songs. He always enjoyed drawing as a child, but it wasn’t until later in life that he really found his passion in oil painting. Soon he began to share this passion with others by teaching art. In 1993 he and Glenda traveled to Silver Falls, Oregon where Wilson became a certified art instructor through the William Alexander Company. He was asked back there for many years to teach and certify other instructors. Wilson started out by teaching evening classes in his own home while still employed at Gouverneur Talc, co. In 2002 he pursued his dream of teaching art full time.

As his popularity increased, he branched out to teaching all over the North Country, Vermont, Virginia and California. His easy-going style has earned him thousands of satisfied students, thus proving his philosophy that “ANYONE can learn to paint.” He worked in acrylic, watercolor and pen & ink, with oils being his personal favorite and most requested workshop medium. He also authored "Wildlife Landscapes You Can Paint" through North Light Books. By 2011 Wilson launched his own signature line of oil-painting products, including canvases and panels, paints, mediums, brushes, and more through Jerry’s Artarama. Wilson began training his own certified teachers and has a team of WBTT’s (Wilson Bickford Trained Teachers), who have received personal training from him and instruct his projects and techniques throughout the U.S, Canada and abroad. He was very proud of his series “Painting with Wilson Bickford” that has aired on WPBS & Create TV for the past 7 seasons. He has gained many followers all over the world. Season 8 will be coming out soon, so stay tuned! Remember to “Stay Creative and Keep Painting”!

In his free time, Wilson enjoyed camping at Lisbon beach with his wife Glenda where they met many friends. He would often find inspiration for his paintings there and shared many sunset photos. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, taking them to the movies (one of his favorite things to do) and attending their sporting events. He was a huge Wildcat fan! Wilson had a very big heart and was an animal lover. He also had great sense of humor and would joke with his students. He was known to fundraise for Friends for Pound Paws and Toys for Tots.

Wilson is survived by his wife Glenda, daughter Amy (Brennan) Ordway, grandson Alexander Ordway, granddaughter Lauren Ordway, brother Kerry (Nancy) Bickford of Fine, sister Sandra (Dave) Edwards of Gouverneur, sister Cheryl Bickford of Gouverneur, several brothers and sisters-in-laws and many nieces and nephews. He will be deeply missed by his friends, family and all who knew him.

He was predeceased by his parents, a daughter Amanda Bickford, Father and Mother-in-law John & Ruth Fuller, a brother Gary Bickford and a niece Melissa Bickford.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Friends for Pound Paws 55 Owl Road, PO Box 394 Gouverneur, NY 13642.

Georgina Rybitski

Georgina Rybitski, 55 of Hammond, New York passed away Monday Dec.6th at Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center in NY from a stroke.

Born April 19, 1966 in Scranton, Pa she is the daughter of the late George “Rocko” Rybitski and Arlene (Lindner) Rybitski.

Georgina was a go getter, with street smarts and a heart of gold. She was a ball of light that brightened everything she touched; her spirit and personality were infectious. She showed her heart through helping those in need and her ability to find the good in between all of life’s trials and tribulations. Georgina epitomized the meaning of unconditional love and made everyone she came in contact with feel special and worthy. You could always count on her to say “Right on” and mean it. She poured her heart and soul into her business “Gigi’s Cleaning Service” and endlessly strived to improve her families’ properties. God was close to her heart and she knew that He gave His strongest warriors the toughest fights.

Georgia loved fiercely and deeply; she felt everyone’s pain and everyone’s triumph. As we mourn the loss of Georgina we take comfort in knowing that all of the best parts of her will live on in all of us. Forever.

Georgina is survived by her 5 children who made up the entirety of her world: Chrisen Smith, Tera Smith, Kyra Knowles and fiance Jared Prashaw, LaShyla Rybitski and Devante Jones and her beloved dog Spaz. Georgina is also survived by her grandchildren: Ceyonna Rybitski, Terron Keill, Kyleah and Laiden Edwards: her sister Leilani Raguckas, her aunts Maryann Bryant and Beverly Kopacz and Uncle John Kopacz: cousins, nieces and nephews.

Georgina was preceded in death by both her parents, her sister Ilene Rybitski and her brothers William and Douglas Hutchins.

Georgina was laid to rest on Tuesday Dec 14th with Duffy and Snowdon Funeral Home in PA.

Timothy A. Law

Timothy A. Law, 65, passed away on Tuesday, December 14, 2021 at Canton-Potsdam Hospital.

A private burial was held in Maple Grove Cemetery, Richville and calling hours were held on Sunday, December 19th at the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur.

Timothy was born in Gouverneur on August 16, 1956, the son of Harold and Lillian (Gaumes) Law.

He attended Gouverneur High School until serving in the United States Marine Corps including being stationed in Okinawa.

Upon honorable discharge from the military, Tim worked most of his life in construction, many of those years with Con Tech Building Systems, Inc.

He enjoyed tinkering on cars, remodeling projects, and was always on the go but found time for his family, especially his grandkids. Tim had been a member of the Antwerp American Legion.

Tim is survived by his brothers Bernie, Kevin, and Chris Law, his sisters Deborah Lutz, Tina Law, and Billy Jo Law, his companion Gloria Garcia, and his extended family including Wendy Baker, Emily Green, Mandy Perrin, Melissa Byrns, and Dominick Garcia, their children, several nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, his brother Ricky Law, his sister April Law, and his companion Linda (Thayer) Green.

Sally A. Hayden

Sally A. Hayden, 85, passed away on Thursday, December 16, 2021 at Samaritan Keep Home in Watertown.

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

Sally was born in Gouverneur on February 20, 1936, the daughter of Glenn B. and Gertrude (Hilts) Johnson.

She graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1954 and married Robert A. Hayden on July 31, 1954 at Gouverneur First Baptist Church with Rev. William Wood.

Mr. Hayden, a retired construction supervisor, passed away on August 3, 1998.

Sally had worked for Kinney Drugs, Kinney Nursing Home, and St. Lawrence County Public Health. She had been a member of the Fowler Baptist Church and liked playing the piano, singing, reading, watching Syracuse football and basketball, and traveling to Canada on fishing trips. Sally also enjoyed her visits with her grandkids, cooking and making family dinners, and loved her pets, cats and dogs.

She is survived by her children Barbara and Robert Leeson of Antwerp, Jacey and Gary Dygert of Gouverneur, Scott and Cindy Hayden of Gouverneur, Jill and Brian Parrotte of South Colton, William Hayden of Gouverneur, 7 grandchildren, 4 step grandchildren, and 14 great grandchildren. Sally is also survived by her sisters Lorraine Johnson and Cindy Wranesh, several nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her parents, her husband, twin sister Nancy Scholfield, sister Toni Strife, and brother David Johnson.

Memorial donations in honor of Sally are encouraged to Friends 4 Pound Paws.

Yvonne Matice

Yvonne Matice, 85, passed away on Saturday, December 18, 2021 at her home.

Calling hours were held on Tuesday, December 21st from 12:00 to 2:00 pm with a funeral service at 2:00 pm at the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur with pastor Kirk Delaney of Bible Baptist Church officiating and burial to follow at Hailesboro Cemetery.

Yvonne was born on May 4, 1936 in Gouverneur, the daughter of Martin and Helen (Cunningham) Conklin and graduated from Hammond High School in 1954.

She worked as a short order cook at Grant’s and AMES Department Stores, at Dixie Lee Chicken, and was employed as a custodian and cleaner at Gouverneur Central School.

Yvonne married Glenn Elliott in 1955 and Webb Matice Sr. in 1992 and both her husbands predeceased her.

She was a member of the Bible Baptist Church and enjoyed oil and watercolor painting, writing poems and stories, playing cards, spending time with family, and most importantly, reading the Bible.

Yvonne is survived by her children Lynn and Tim Matice of Natural Dam, Tammy and Peter Petrie of Peru, Glenna and Rodney Dashnaw of Gouverneur, Dean and Erin Elliott of Nedrow, several grandchildren, great grandchildren, stepchildren, step grandchildren, and step great grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings Arnold and Donna Conklin of Edwards, Mary Hyde of Pennsylvania, in-laws Kay Manson of Gouverneur, Joseph Seery of Philadelphia, Diane Manson of Hammond, several nieces and nephews. Yvonne is predeceased by her parents, her husbands, her daughter Vonna Kiesnowski, her brothers John and Alexander Robert Manson, and her sisters Hazel Seery and Ardis Reynolds.

Memorial donations in honor of Yvonne are encouraged to the Gouverneur Breast Cancer Fund, PO Box 64, Gouverneur, NY 13642 or Bible Baptist Church.

Andrew Motyka

Andrew J. Motyka, age 64, of Gouverneur, passed away on Saturday, December 11, 2021 at the Pontiac Nursing Home in Oswego.

Andrew was born on January 3, 1957 in Hazel Crest, IL to the late Eugene and Margaret (Naughton) Motyka. He attended Hill Crest School in Illinois and graduated from Gouverneur Central School in 1974. He entered into the United States Army and served until his honorable discharge. He married Catherine Carrig

Andrew was a painter in Chicago. He loved visiting with his friends and family, working side painting jobs and in his younger years, he enjoyed doing landscaping.

He is survived by three daughters, Kelly Carrig, Andrea Motyka and Stephanie Motyka; four brothers, John, David, Christopher and Ricky Motyka and two sisters, Sherry Sotomayer and Anne Woodard.

Andrew is predeceased by his parents and two brothers, Robert and Patrick Motyka.

There will be no services for Andrew. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home, Gouverneur. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

James Hodgdon

James Hodgdon, 71, passed away on Sunday, December 12, 2021 at his home.

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

James was born in Gouverneur on February 20, 1950, the son of Harry and Lina (Thurston) Hodgdon.

He graduated from Gouverneur High School and then served in the United States Army from 1968 to 1970.

Jim married Susan Fuller on January 4, 1969 in Gouverneur with Rev. Stanley E. Brown officiating.

He worked over 30 years as a car salesman for various dealers including Seakers Chevrolet, D.J. Walters, and Blevins dealerships until retirement.

Jim enjoyed hunting, fishing, raising and riding horses, and spending time with family, especially playing cards with his grandkids.

He is survived by his wife Sue, his daughter Tracy Jane Buchardt, his grandchildren Trey and his companion Peyton, Alani, Evan, Jaric, and Kullen, and a great grandson Wesley. Jim is also survived by his sisters Sharon Langevin, Cheryl Colton, Susie Mcheffy, Janice Wainwright, Kathie Travis, Libby Spinelli, Nona Hilts, and Wendy Soper, several nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, his two sons Bradley Hodgdon and Brian Hodgdon, and a brother Harry “Butch” Hodgdon.

Memorial donations are encouraged to the Richville Library or Richville First Responders.

Judith M. DeCastro

Judith M. DeCastro, 85, passed away on Sunday, December 12, 2021 at Canton-Potsdam Hospital.

A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, December 18th at 11:00 am at St. James Catholic Church, Gouverneur with Fr. Jay Seymour officiating and a spring burial will be held in New St. James Cemetery, Gouverneur. Calling hours are on Friday from 3:00 to 6:00 pm at the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur.

Judith was born on August 21, 1936 in Gouverneur, the daughter of Joseph and Madeline (Canfield) Curtis.

She graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1954 and from radiology school in Jersey City as a x-ray technician.

Judy married Mario DeCastro on February 23, 1957 at St. James Catholic Church in Gouverneur.

She worked as a x-ray technician for a short time prior to her marriage and then worked at the family owned Roma Restaurant in Gouverneur.

Judy was a communicant of St. James Church where she was an associate of the Sisters of St. Joseph and volunteered at its Outreach program and food pantry. She was also a Hospice volunteer and enjoyed golf, knitting, and cooking for her friends and family.

She is survived by her daughter Marla A. and Foster Shampine of Gouverneur, a son Mario A. DeCastro of Alexandria Bay, her grandchildren Melissa, Catie, Jon, Morricia, and Amanda, 3 great grandchildren, a brother Michael Curtis of Banning, CA, nieces and nephews. Judy is predeceased by her parents, her husband Mario, a son Michael J. DeCastro, and a sister Monica Scott.

Memorial donations in honor of Judy are encouraged to the St. James School or St. James Church, 164 E. Main Street, Gouverneur, NY 13642.

Thomas G. Washburn

"He came into my life dancing"... On December 8, 2021, Thomas G. Washburn, 75, of Groton, New York, passed away after a long illness. He is survived by his wife, Marcia, his brother Jim Washburn, his sons Joel Washburn, Robert Carlo and Michael Carlo, his wife Heather and their son, Evan, along many nieces and nephews and wonderful friends. A graduate of Gouverneur High School he lived his life as a union carpenter with a few years of trucking thrown in before illness forced his retirement in 2008. He was a wonderful husband, father and friend to many and will be missed. As per his wishes there will be no services. He's dancing with his grandma in heaven now.

Catherine Studebaker

Catherine “Cathy” L. Studebaker, age 62, of Gouverneur, passed away on December 5, 2021 at her home under the care of her family and hospice.

In keeping with her wishes, there will be no public services. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home in Gouverneur. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Catherine was born on May 10, 1959 in Ogdensburg to Patricia L. (Touron) Hopper and the late Robert Brossoit. She worked as a postal delivery worker for the Ogdensburg Post Office.

Cathy was a very caring person and a great Mom. She was a phenomenal cook who loved to travel.

She is survived by her mother, Patricia Hopper, her boyfriend, H. Fred Idzenga, two sons, John Bonk and David Studebaker, five grandchildren, Jacob Bonk, Sydney Anderson, Kasey Bonk, Skyla Anderson, and Hailey Bonk, brother, Robert (Megan) Brossoit, and sisters, Patti Rhinehart and Maureen (Maj) Saghafi. She is also survived by several nieces, nephews, cousins, and a very special cat.

Cathy is predeceased by her father and a sister, Diana “Diane” Fairbanks.

Thomas J. Robarge Sr.

Thomas J. Robarge Sr. of Potsdam, NY died peacefully at the age of 83 on September 27, 2021 with his brother and niece by his side. He was a beloved father, grandfather, teacher, writer and outdoorsman.

Born on May 15, 1938 in Oswego, NY, Mr. Robarge was the son of the late Ethel R. and Francis H. Robarge Sr. He grew up in Sackets Harbor with his four brothers. After graduating from Immaculate Heart Academy, he attended Oswego State University, working his way through college as a retail clerk, truck driver and muck farmworker before earning his bachelor of science in elementary education in 1960. He went on to receive multiple teaching certifications from graduate studies at SUNY Cortland, Potsdam and Canton, as well as Yale and Columbia Universities.

His 35-year career as a school teacher reached thousands of students and included three decades as a science teacher at Hermon-DeKalb Central School. Education was not just a career for him—it was his life’s passion. Among Mr. Robarge’s many honors for his work are an international environmental award from Friends of the Earth and a personal letter of appreciation from President John F. Kennedy who thanked him for his dedication to his students at a marginalized elementary school on Long Island. He authored articles about science education that were published in magazines such as Science & Children and Boy’s Life and developed several inventions, one of which was patented.

He retired from teaching in 1995 and devoted himself to his creative pursuits. He wrote, illustrated, and published short stories, nonfiction, photography collections, and children’s books. He created and performed storytelling shows for libraries and school using his true-to-life personas, “Professor Magnet” and “Grandpa North.” In his popular Grandpa North children’s book series, he told colorful tales of outdoor adventures with his grandchildren. Many his works documented North Country history and were inspired by exchanging stories o­ver coffee with other old-timers, one of his favorite pastimes. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed fishing, biking, canoeing, skiing, snow shoeing and hiking, continuing many of these hobbies well into his 70s.

He was eternally devoted to his five children and five grandchildren—always ready to give encouragement and support when needed or share another unforgettable swamp adventure with them. He was loved by many and will be dearly missed.

He is survived by his children, Suzanne Desimone, Thomas Robarge Jr., Jacqueline Robarge, and Danielle Rusk; grandchildren, Danielle Desimone, Aster Robarge, Josh Glass, Nicole Robarge, and Briana Robarge; brothers Terry Robarge and Dan Robarge; and nieces and nephews, including niece Ellen Carr; and many close friends. He is preceded in death by his son, Jim Robarge, and brothers, Bryan Robarge and Francis H. Robarge Jr.

A graveside service will take place in 2022 at Bayside Cemetery in Potsdam. Memorial donations may be made to: Northern New York Community Foundation with a designation to the “Thomas J. Robarge, Sr. Legacy Fund,” 131 Washington St., Watertown, NY 13601 or https://www.nnycf.org/ The nonprofit fund will support efforts in St. Lawrence County that carry on Mr. Robarge’s legacy of science education and lifelong learning.

Raymond Hays, Jr.

Raymond Robert Hays, Jr., age 81, formerly of Macomb, passed away on October 27, 2021 at Gouverneur Hospital.

There will be calling hours held at French Funeral Home in Gouverneur on Saturday, November 6, 2021 from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. followed by a reception held at the Gouverneur Elks lodge. There will be no service. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Robert was born on September 23, 1940 in DeKalb to the late Raymond R. Hays, Sr. and Eileen G. (Burns) Hays. He graduated from Gouverneur Central School in 1959. Robert married Jacqueline “Jackie” O’Donnell on August 28, 1971 in St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Hammond.

Robert was a quiet man who was a farmer through and through. He had helped his father farm until he bought his own farm on Route 58 in Macomb and eventually bought his farm on the California Road. He farmed until he retired in 2012. He had also worked for St. Joe Mineral Corp., both underground and in the mill for about 12 years. In his free time, Robert enjoyed reading his farming newspapers and magazines, and when he was younger enjoyed snowmobiling and square-dancing.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Jackie Hays, 6 children, Tammy Hays, Stacie (Thomas) Hays Platt, Lindsay (Clinton) Stowell, Raymond “Robby” Hays, III, Ashlee (Ruben) Paredes, and Timothy Hays; 2 sisters, Helen Simmons and Carol Mackay, and 6 brothers, Ellsworth, Gary, J. Douglas, George, Thomas, and Christopher Hays. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren, Taylor, Brooklyn, Courtney, Blaine, Hunter, Levi, Charles, Sydney, Haylee and Kaylee, a great-grandson, Kolton, and many nieces and nephews.

Robert is predeceased by his parents and 2 brothers, John Francis Hays and Joseph “Mike” Hays.

Mary O’Donnel

Mary O’Donnel, 97, passed away on Saturday, October 30, 2021 at United Helpers Maplewood in Canton.

   A funeral mass will be held on Friday, November 5th at 2:00 pm at St. James Catholic Church, Gouverneur with Fr. Jay Seymour officiating and burial to follow in Riverside Cemetery, Gouverneur. A celebration of life will follow the burial at Mullin’s Restaurant. Calling hours will be held on Thursday from 1-3 pm and 6-8 pm with an 8:00 pm rosary service at the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur. The family requests attendees to please wear masks.

   Mary was born in Edwards on February 3, 1924, the daughter of Antonio and Maria Rosa (Ponessa) Curcio.

   She was a member of the class of 1943 at Gouverneur High School and began her career as the first waitress at the newly opened Clearview Restaurant. Mary also worked as a waitress at the Casablanca Restaurant and Pistolesi’s Dry Cleaning. She eventually ventured out on her own as the owner and operator of her laundromat.

   She married James A. Skeldon and he died on the U.S.S. Swordfish during WW II. Mary married Raymond Mullin, who passed away in 1952, and Harold O’Donnel in 1955, and he passed away in 1997.

   Mary was known for her cooking skills and hosting events for her family. She also enjoyed listening to music, reading, gardening, bowling, and playing golf. Mary also enjoyed traveling whether it was to Europe to visit family or to New York to watch her beloved Yankees. She was a member of St. James Church.

   Mary is survived by her children James and Diane Skeldon of Watertown, Daniel Mullin, Kathy and Rodney Tracey, Melanie Mullin, all of Gouverneur, Debbie Leonard of Syracuse, her daughter-in-law Charlene Mullin of Gouverneur, 19 grandchildren, 58 great-grandchildren, 37 great-great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Mary was beloved "Nona" to her 114 grandchildren. She is predeceased by her parents, her three husbands, her son Mark Mullin, a daughter-in-law Elizabeth (Betz) Mullin, a son-in-law David Leonard, a grandson Ryan Tracey, a granddaughter Mary Katherine, great-granddaughters Sarah Mae and Evelyn Janet Rose, a great-grandson Jack, a great-great-granddaughter Charlie Rose, and a great-great-grandchild Francis Jude. Mary is also predeceased by her sister Irene (Curcio) Caldwell and brothers Charles and Gennaro Aurelio and Louis, Orlando, and Ermando Curcio.

   Mary’s family would like to extend their thanks to the staff at Maplewood for the excellent care that Mary received over the last several years.

   Memorial donations to honor Mary are encouraged to St. James School, 164 E. Main Street, Gouverneur, NY 13642.

Judy M. Fishel

Judy M. Fishel, age 74, of Gouverneur, passed away on Wednesday, October 27, 2021 at Gouverneur Hospital.

Calling hours for Judy will be on Wednesday November 3, 2021 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at French Funeral Home in Gouverneur. Her funeral mass will be on Thursday, November 4th at 11:00 a.m. at St. James Church in Gouverneur with Father Jay Seymour officiating. Burial will follow at St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Rossie. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Judy was born on May 16, 1947 in Gouverneur, NY to the late Edward and Lois (Emrich) Fishel. She graduated from Morristown Central School in 1965 and then went on to graduate from Canton ATC for nursing. In 1972 she took a full-time position at Kinney Drugs Warehouse in Gouverneur, where she worked for 30+ years.

Judy was a true giver and enjoyed the simple things in life. She enjoyed traveling, driving through the Adirondacks in the Fall to see the leaves change, watching Hallmark movies, going with her children and siblings to Canada for Chinese dinner. Her family was everything to her. She loved her children and grandchildren. She was very close with her siblings and nieces and nephews and enjoyed all of the family gatherings.

Surviving is her two sons and their wives, Chad and Heather Fishel and Kevin and Jennifer Fishel all of Gouverneur; Her sister, Nancy Russell of Ogdensburg; three brothers and their wives, Thomas and Marlene Fishel of Black Lake, Dale and Penny Fishel of Gouverneur and Randy and Linda Fishel of Hammond; seven grandchildren, Gavin, James, Graham, Josslyn, Janie, Jonathan and Hadley and five nieces and nephews, Michael Russell, Chris Fishel, Alison Lawrence, Lauren Fishel and Erica Hilborne.

Judy is predeceased by her parents and a brother-in-law, James Russell.

Donations may be made in Judy’s memory to the St. James School, 20 S. Gordon St. Gouverneur, NY 13642 or to the Gouverneur Volunteer Rescue Squad, 1024 US Hwy. 11, Gouverneur, NY 13642.

Harold E. “Hub” Hamilton

Harold E. “Hub” Hamilton, 88, passed away on Monday, October 25, 2021 in Columbia, SC.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, November 6th from 11:00 am to 12:00 noon with a funeral service at noon at the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur with pastor Martha Helmer. A burial with military honors will follow in Hermon Cemetery.

Harold was born in Hermon on November 30, 1932, the son of Brayton E. and Helen (Fuller) Hamilton.

He graduated from high school in Hermon in 1951 and served in the United States Air Force from 1952 to 1956.

Harold returned to the north country where he was employed at St. Joe Mineral Company and retired from the Fluor Corporation in 1987.

He married Patricia Hanratty in 1957 and the couple had three children.

Hub had been a member of the Elks Lodge and VFW of Gouverneur. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, playing cards, and spending winters in Florida.

Harold is survived by his companion Eleanor R. Sheppard, his children Harold B. Hamilton of Hermon, Michael J. Hamilton and Janet M. Hamilton, both of W. Lebanon, NH, his granddaughter Trisha Hamilton, sisters Eleanor Dewer of Hermon, Alice Hooper of Harrisville, and Nancy Hamilton of Norwood, several nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents Brayton and Helen, his brothers E. John Hamilton and Gordon Hamilton.

Ernest L. Ellis

Ernest L. “Ernie” Ellis, 79, passed away on Sunday, October 24, 2021 at Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center in Ogdensburg.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, October 29th from 10:30 to 11:30 am with a funeral service at 11:30 am at the Green Funeral Home in Gouverneur with pastor David Hart officiating and burial in East Riverside Cemetery, Gouverneur.

Ernest was born in Rossie on August 23, 1942, the son of Merild and Hazel (Lawton) Ellis. He married Louella Hunter on July 8, 1967. Louella passed away on May 27, 1997.

Ernie worked most of his life in the dairy industry, working on his own farm on the Peabody Road and also driving milk truck. He enjoyed his work on the farm, spending time with his pet dogs, visiting with friends and family, and he was known for his sense of humor and playing jokes.

Ernie is survived by his sons Mark and Pauline Ellis of Tower City, PA, Scott and Tammi Ellis of Black River, his grandkids Matthew, Zachary, Emilie, and Jacob. He is also survived by his brothers Larry Ellis and Tom Ellis, both of Philadelphia, his sister Janet Coons of Gouverneur, several nieces and nephews. Ernie is predeceased by his parents, his wife Louella, his brothers Morris and Gary Ellis, and his sister Jean Gardner.

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

Due to Covid-19, a celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Nancy Ann Burston

Nancy Ann Burston, 72, of Trumansburg, New York, passed away peacefully on September 15, 2021 surrounded by her immediate family. Originally from Richville, a small town in northern upstate New York, Nancy and her husband lived outside of Trumansburg for 45 years. She loved her life in Trumansburg, Ithaca and the surrounding area. She marveled at the beauty of the lakes, the solitude of the surrounding hills where she made her home and the abundance of birds that frequented her birdfeeders.

Nancy was born in Gouverneur, New York on April 20, 1949, the daughter of Kenneth Driver and Norah P. Burston. Nancy’s early core interests in travel, music and animal rescue grew over seven decades. The family’s 50’s road trips throughout New England and Eastern Canada seeded a lifelong passion for travel eventually taking her cross country, to the Southern Hemisphere, Europe and Southeast Asia.

While growing up in Richville and attending Gouverneur High, she nurtured her love of music through instrumental, choral and dance venues. When the family moved to Watertown, New York in her junior year, she became an exchange student and lived in Peru. Known for her kindness, Nancy and her husband opened their home to international students and other youth and when their daughter, Marissa, became an exchange student in Thailand, they thoroughly enjoyed spending time in that beautiful country.

Nancy attended Albany State University where she met many of her lifelong friends. She earned her undergraduate degree there in 1971. She continued her education through graduate studies at both Syracuse University and Cornell University where she earned her Ph. D. After graduation, Nancy worked at Green Thumb in Cortland. Later, she became Associate Director of the Human Services Coalition of Tompkins County where she worked for many years. She made many friends through her job at HSC and enjoyed working in downtown Ithaca where she could enjoy the commons. She loved working with Cornell student interns at HSC and received an employer recognition award for her work as a mentor.

Friends of Nancy knew her as someone who was always up for an adventure. Whether it was going to New York City for a Broadway show, clamming in the chilly waters of Eastern Long Island or traveling, she loved getting out and doing things with her friends and family.

Nancy is survived by her husband, Terry Clingen, their daughter, Marissa Burston Clingen, and son-in-law, Alex Goddard of Maryland; her sister, Diane Sherwood, and husband, Roger, of New York City, and their son, Bradley, and his wife, Helen, of Connecticut; Nancy’s brother-in-law, Tim Clingen of California, and many cousins and close friends spread throughout the country.

Anyone who knew Nancy also knows how much she loved her pets, especially her cats, and how much they loved her back. Over the years she took in and cared for countless homeless pets and donated to many rescue organizations. In lieu of flowers, you can continue her efforts by making a donation in her name to the SPCA of Tompkins County.

A Celebration of Life will take place in the Ithaca area in the Spring of 2022 and later in Orient Point where her ashes will be interred.