James R. “Jim” Barker

James R. “Jim” Barker, 77, passed away on Tuesday, April 25, 2023 at the home of his daughter in Williamson, NY.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday, April 30th from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Green Funeral Home in Gouverneur. Immediately following the calling hours, a celebration of life will be held at the Gouverneur VFW from 1:00 pm, to 3:00 pm on Sunday.

James was born on August 8, 1945 in Miami Beach, FL, the son of Benjamin and Mazie (Storie) Barker.

Jim graduated from Gouverneur High School and then served in the United States Army and served in Panama.

He worked a variety of jobs including driving trucks, operating heavy equipment, employment at Fort Drum, and working for himself.

He had enjoyed fishing, visiting the casino, and scratch off tickets. Jim was a creative soul and liked to tinker on things, was interested in Egypt, treasure hunting, and mysteries. He also liked to visit with friends, family, and strangers, often stretching a simple question into a few minutes to even over an hour.

Jim married Bonnie (Brown) Prashaw on August 5, 2000 at the church in Oxbow.

Jim is survived by his children Dawn and Scott Butler, Delben Barker, a step daughter Kim Law, Bonnie’s children Donna, Bob, Jeff, Jody, and Karl, and their families. He is also survived by his sisters Jan Barker and Judy Mattingly, several nieces and nephews. Jim is predeceased by his parents, his sisters Joyce Richardson and Betty Thomson Donoso, a stepson Steve Russell, and Bonnie’s daughter Laureen.

Memorial donations in honor of Jim are encouraged to your local hospice chapter.

Herbert A. Haines, Jr.

Hebert A. Haines, Jr., 57, passed away on Friday, April 28, 2023 at home.

There are no calling hours or funeral services. Arrangements are with the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur.

Herbie was born in Mexico, NY on April 17, 1966, the son of Herbert and Virginia (Crawn) Haines.

He graduated from Gouverneur High School and lived most of his life around Gouverneur.

The last several years he worked on the Kelly Farm.

His true joy was the outdoors, spending his free time fishing, hunting, and trapping.

Herbie is predeceased by his parents and a brother Leo Haines. He is survived by a brother Jim and Genice, his sisters Donna and Floyd, Cindy and Pat, Heidi and Lonnie, Lisa and David, Melissa and Chuck, Franny, and Betty-Jo, many nieces and nephews.

Hazel Blance

Blance, Hazel Sadie; died on Sunday, April 9, 2023 at the age of 86.

Hazel is survived by her children: Lin Applegarth, Charles (Bibiana) Applegarth, Lori Pool and Frank Gulick Jr.; 14 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren and many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. She was predeceased by her parent William J.H. and Agnes Blance; sisters Nancy Ann, Suki, Margaret and Judy and brothers James and William.

Hazel was a graduate of Gouverneur H.S. and a retiree from Nestles in Fulton, NY. She was an avid square dancer, joining several groups over her many years and loved to jitter-bug with her sister Judy. She also loved to read and enjoyed writing her own stories and loved to knit and crochet creating many beautiful sweaters and baby items for family and friends as well as scarfs, ear warmers and stuffed toys for her grandchildren. She was a (1960’s) member of the Avon Women’s Archery Team.

Hazel’s children wish to thank the Wayne County Nursing Home staff who cared for her during her stay on Peppermint Lane as well as the staff and Hospice Team on Memory Lane for all the love and care given to our mother and to us during the final part of her journey home.

Family and friends are invited to call from 2- 4pm on Saturday, May 13 at the Robert L. Yost Funeral Home, Inc., 123 W. Main St., Palmyra. There will be a private burial in Riverside Cemetery in Gouverneur on a later date yet to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, please consider memorials to the Alzheimers Association (www.alz.org), National Breast Cancer Foundation (www.nationalbreastcancer.org, the American Heart Association (www.heart.org) or a charity of your choice. Online condolences at www.rlyostfuneralhome.com

Randy H. Reynolds, Sr.

Randy H. Reynolds, Sr., 63, passed away on Sunday, April 23, 2023 at his home.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, April 29th from 1:00 to 3:00 pm with a funeral service at 3:00 pm at the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur with John Frary, lay pastor of Hermon
First United Methodist Church.

Randy was born in Gouverneur on June 20, 1959, the son of Joel and Norma (Morse) Reynolds, Sr.

He graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1977 and married Cheryl Sullivan on April 7, 1979 at the Gouverneur First United Methodist Church with Rev. Stanley E. Brown officiating.

Randy worked at the farms of Larry Hance and Jack Bell and was employed as a carpenter at Fort Drum.

He was a member of the DADS at the Gouverneur VFW and enjoyed visiting the casino, crossword puzzles, karaoke, and riding his Harley.

Randy is survived by his wife Cheryl, his children Randy H. Reynolds, Jr. and John C. “JC” Reynolds, his parents Joel and Norma, his siblings Joel and Peggy Reynolds, Cathy and Kevin Robbins, John Reynolds, Cheryl and Fred Hartle, and Richard Reynolds, several nieces and nephews.

Memorial donations in honor of Randy are encouraged to your local Parkinson’s Foundation.

Donald F. Sprague, Jr.

Donald F. Sprague Jr. died peacefully in the arms of his wife in his Colorado home on April 10, 2023. He was born in Gouverneur, NY on January 13, 1939, the oldest son of Donald F. Sprague Sr. and Mary (Bockus) Sprague.

Don graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1957. Following graduation, he attended Syracuse University, and was a member of the graduating class of 1961. After graduation, Don joined the U.S. Navy where he became a Lieutenant Commander. He served as a naval pilot for eight years and then in the Naval Reserve for three years.

Don married his high school sweetheart, Martha Millard, in 1967. They celebrated 55 years of marriage in November.

Don and Martha moved to South Bend, IN where Don began teaching courses as part of Notre Dame’s ROTC program. Eventually, Don’s love of home and the outdoors brought him and Martha back to Northern New York where Don started an outdoor camping business. He then found his calling working in real estate. Don became a broker for Strout Realty, winning numerous awards for both himself and his office. He then worked for United Real Estate Company, working his way up to owner / vice president.

Don and Martha retired to Colorado in 2006. He continued to enjoy hunting, fishing, golfing, playing horseshoes and spending time with his children and grandchildren.

Don is predeceased by his parents and sister, Sarah. Surviving are his wife, Martha (Millard) Sprague; daughter, Christine, her husband, Stephen, their daughter, Danielle, her husband, Samuel; daughter, Mary, her husband Timothy, their children, Rory, Clare, and Case; son. Spencer, his wife Elizabeth, their son, Hunter; son Matthew, his wife, Dami, their children, Maya, Brady and Grant; sister, Stephany and two brothers, James and Philip.

A celebration of Don’s life will be held at his Colorado home on April 21, 2023. Those who wish to remember Don in a special way may make a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association in his memory.

Ruby Race Gates Parshley

Ruby Race Gates Parshley, of Lakeland, Florida passed away peacefully on March 18, 2023.

Ruby was born on Feb 4th, 1931 to William and Ruth Noble Race in Pierrepont, NY. She attended Canton High School and graduated from St Lawrence School of Nursing.

On Feb 10th, 1951 Ruby married Gilbert F Gates of Gouverneur, NY. Following Gil's career with General Electric Company, they lived in Alabama, California and Oregon until returning to central NY to raise their children on Peterboro Road in Munnsville.

Ruby worked as an RN for hospitals in Gouverneur, Syracuse, and Oneida. She was a caring and devoted Nurse for the Madison County Public Health Dept from which she retired.

Gil and Ruby lived a number of years in Solon, Maine, where Gil worked until his retirement from GE. There she became a member of the Lions Club, and collected medical supplies free to anyone in need. She worked diligently on her home to prepare it for use as a bed and breakfast, calling it "Mainely Ruby's".

Ruby was a volunteer and supported the neighborhood wherever she lived. She was a Girl Scout Leader, shuffled car loads of kids to the local swimming hole or bowling alley, and flooded the side yard for ice skating. She was a good friend, neighborhood nurse, and was willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. She was an active member of the Oneida Elk's Auxiliary. Ruby was a gardener, golfer and bowled in a league at City Lanes for years. Ruby loved to "treasure hunt" and enjoyed poking around antique shops, garage sales and auctions. Her camera at hand, she recorded family, friends, events and adventures down the road less traveled. She attended the Methodist churches of Bennetts Corners, Vernon, Kendrew, Edwards, and Lakeland, Fl.

Ruby and Gil were married for 52 years until Gil's passing in 2003. Together they raised four children, Deb Roher (Alan), Kathy Malinowski (Matt), Patty Gates (Steve Brown), and Mike (JoAnn Vanderwerken). She leaves behind grandchildren Gilienne Roher, Paul and Eric Malinowski, Alison Brown Eccleston, Samantha Brown, and Andrew and Grace Gates. Ruby also leaves three great granddaughters, Elaina, Ava Rose, Matilda, and many nieces and nephews.

On January 15th, 2005 Ruby married Dean Parshley in Vernon NY and enjoyed 18 years of love and friendship. Together they traveled the country in their RV, went on an Alaskan cruise and a trip to the Galapagos Islands. Ruby loved her summers at Trout Lake where she and Dean were visited often by friends and family including Dean's three children Jeanie Liddell (Dave), Lee (Crystal), and Dan (Brandy), and grandchildren Sabria, Gavin, Brendon, Aubrey, Noah and Bryson.

Ruby is survived by her sister, Ilene Friot (Harold) of Marcy, NY, and brother Gilbert Race (Shirley) of Rensselaer Falls, NY. She was predeceased by brothers John Harlan Race (Rose), Emerson "Mike" Race (Barb), and sister Sharon Parshley.

A celebration of Ruby's incredible life is planned by her family sometime this summer.

Kathleen Mary June

Kathleen Mary June, passed away peacefully at home on April 8, 2023, surrounded by loved ones and her loving husband of 66 years, Frederick Alan June.

Kathleen was born May 31, 1938 to William and Catherine (LaMare) Fitzgerald in Plattsburgh, NY. She was a loving mother and wife, who dedicated her life to caring for her family. She was class Treasurer and graduated from Gouverneur Senior High School in June 1956, married Fred in July 1956, and they raised 8 children together. While her life was full as a mother and wife, she also managed to hold a variety of jobs, including a telephone operator, cashier, and was promoted to various positions during her employment with St. Joe Mineral/Zinc Corporation of America mines, from which she retired. As was her humble and gentle nature, she never understood how accomplished and admired she was.

She is survived by her husband, Frederick June, Gouverneur, NY and their children: Jayne Burns, Mililani, HI; Lorraine June, Roseville, CA; Karen McKinney, Damon June and wife Tammy, Mary Margaret Libby, and Brenda Perrigo and husband Bryan, all from Gouverneur, NY. She is predeceased by her sons: R. Mark June and Kevin June, son-in-law George Burns, grandson Phillip McKinney, parents (Joe and Kate), and siblings William Fitzgerald, James Fitzgerald, John Fitzgerald, Robert Fitzgerald and Jan Smith. Kathleen enjoyed the blessing of 19 grandchildren and 35 great grandchildren.

She was a devout Catholic, an avid reader, had a beautiful singing voice, loved swimming, especially at their camp for many years on Trout Lake, and enjoyed playing cards with family and friends. After retirement, Kathleen and Fred wintered in Arizona where she learned to golf and enjoyed time with friends. Her favorite pastime was holding hands and dancing with Fred, which was their first date and final act together. Although the dancing came to an end, they continued to hold hands, as they listened to the songs they danced to throughout the years. They would close their eyes, sing to each other, and hold each other close in their thoughts. She leaves a legacy of what it means to love and is sorely missed by those who grieve with her passing.

“Who can find a virtuous wife, for her worth is far above rubies. The heart of her husband safely trusts her, so he will have no lack of gain. She does him good and not evil all the days of her life…She opens her mouth with wisdom, and on her tongue is the law of kindness. She watches over the ways of her household, and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: Many daughters have done well, but you excel them all. Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised. Give her the fruit of her hands, and let her own works praise her in the gates.” (Pr. 31:10-12,26-31)

There will be no calling hours or services at this time; however, the family would like to thank Green Funeral Home, Inc. for their assistance with her final arrangement wishes. In remembrance of Kathleen, donations can be made to the Hospice and Palliative Care of St. Lawrence Valley, PO Box 510, Potsdam, NY 13676.

Jeanette C. “Polly” Mashaw

Jeanette C. “Polly” Mashaw, 72, passed away on Friday, April 7, 2023 in Syracuse.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, April 15th at 11:00 am at the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur with Martha Helmer, pastor of DeKalb Jct. United Methodist Church officiating and burial in East Riverside Cemetery, Gouverneur. Calling hours are Sat., 10-11 am previous to the service and on Friday 4-6 pm at the funeral home.

Jeanette was born on September 21, 1950, the daughter of Robert and Ruth (Fleming) George. She had attended schools around Gouverneur and at the Rome School for the Deaf.

Polly married Earl W. Mashaw Sr. on August 18, 1967.

She was a homemaker and lived most of her life in the Gouverneur and Antwerp areas.

Polly enjoyed bingo, going to the casino, reading, and spending time with her family, especially her grandkids, some of whom she raised.

She is survived by her children Clara J. Mashaw and her companion Raymond Cook of Antwerp, Earl W. Mashaw Jr. and his companion Fawn Barrett of Theresa, Robert J. and Melanie Mashaw of Antwerp, 10 grandchildren, and 7 great grandchildren. Polly is also survived by her siblings Paul George, Robert George, Ann Newvine, and Concetta George, several nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her parents, her husband Earl, her daughter Penny S. Mashaw, her grandson Brent Mashaw, siblings Barbara Baltz, Darlene George, and Richard
George.

Memorial donations in honor of Polly are encouraged to Indian River Ambulance Service or South Jefferson Rescue Squad.

David Brian Hamilton

David Brian Hamilton, 92, passed away on Tuesday, March 28, 2023, having fought the good fight the past eight months.

Calling hours were held on Saturday, April 1st from 10 am to 11:30 am with a funeral service at 11:30 am at the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur and burial following with military honors at Maple Grove Cemetery in Richville.

David was born in DeKalb on September 12, 1930, the son of E. Bryan and Marjorie (Rickett) Hamilton.

Following a short career working on the family farm and a local cheese factory, Dave joined the United States Air Force in January of 1951 where he was stationed stateside in Pueblo, Colorado and Salt Lake City, Utah, and in 1954, was stationed overseas in the Philippines. During his tour, he was commissioned to develop and run the Air Force boxing program at these bases as he was an accomplished boxer himself.

Following his service in the military, he returned to his hometown and married Catheryn Bowman, where together they had four children. Dave spent most of the remainder of his working career as a union carpenter and welder. He was a member of the Gouverneur Elks Club, the Gouverneur American Legion, and a lifetime member of the Gouverneur VFW. Dave was fond of hunting and fishing when younger and always known for his smile and friendly conversation.

Dave is survived by his children Cynthia Santerre (Daniel), Maria Dudo (Dale Clement), David Hamilton II (Stacie), and Philip Hamilton, 7 grandchildren, and 6 great grandchildren. He is also survived by his devoted and loving partner of nearly 40 years Retha Abrantes, his siblings Roger Hamilton and Sophie Chilton, many nieces and nephews. Dave is predeceased by his parents, brothers Robert, William, and Richard Hamilton, and sister Barbara Peck.

Many thanks to all the staff at Gouverneur Hospital for all the kindness and care they showed Dad during his lengthy stay there.

Those wishing to remember Dave can make donations to the Gouverneur American Legion.

Diane L. LaFaver

Diane L. LaFaver, 81, peacefully entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, March 29, 2023.

A private graveside for Diane will be conducted at a later date. Arrangements are with the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur.

Diane was born on August 3, 1941 in Beverly, Massachusetts to the late Frank and Dorothy “Dot” (Dodwell) Fowler.

She attended Beverly High School and then went on to Beverly Hospital School of Nursing to earn her nursing degree.

Diane married the love of her life Gordon A. LaFaver on October 9, 1965 which ended in divorce. Gordon passed away on March 1, 2020.

Diane was a registered nurse and performed her residency at Upstate in Syracuse. She then worked at E.J. Noble Hospital E.R. in Gouverneur, Canton-Potsdam Hospital E.R., served as a public health nurse, and as a private home health nurse, retiring in 2000.

She lived in the Richville area for over 40 years.

Diane enjoyed needlepoint, crocheting reading, birdwatching, and watching the Boston Red Sox. She had been a member of the E.J. Noble Hospital Auxiliary.

Diane is survived by her children Steven and Sandra LaFaver of Wisconsin, Susan and Vern Braunshweig of Kansas, Scott and Stacey LaFaver of Richville, her grandchildren Alyssa, Alexandrtia, Alana, and Elijah Garcia-LaFaver, Olivia and Charles Braunschweig, Jordan Sampson, Abigail LaFaver, Brooke Downing, and Paige Phillips, Great grandchildren Nova, Giovanna, Kalvin, and Lournee, Marilynn and Aliya.

Memorial contributions can be made to St. Lawrence County SPCA or Gouverneur Hospital.

Herman “Junior” Towne Jr.

Herman “Junior” Towne Jr., 82, passed away on Wednesday, March 22, 2023 at his home.

A casual dress celebration of life will be held on Sunday, March 26th from 1:00 to 4:00 pm at the Casablanca Restaurant in Gouverneur. Arrangements are with the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur.

Junior was born in Gouverneur on May 16, 1940, the son of Herman and Ella (Apple) Towne.

He attended Gouverneur schools and lived in the Gouverneur area all his life.

Junior worked a variety of jobs and owned/operated Nina’s Hotel with his wife Squally for nearly 50 years. He lived the past 60 years at his Maple View Farm.

He enjoyed working on his hobby farm, watching the birds, hunting and fishing, and watching Gunsmoke. Junior also enjoyed visiting, sharing stories, and stretching the truth with his patrons, friends, and family.

Junior married Patricia “Squally” Patton on August 22, 1998. He was previously married to Barbara Kane from 1960 to 1986.

Junior is survived by his wife Squally, his children Natalie Towne, Rick and Kathy Towne, Teresa and Chris Stone, Dan and Mia Clark, Jerrilyn Patton and Mark Hendrick, his son-in-law Lloyd Storie, 11 grandchildren, and 4 great grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings Lillian Fuller, Florence Ashley, Elizabeth Paro, Carol Venton, Virginia Towne, and Lorraine Hand, several nieces and nephews. Junior is predeceased by his parents and his siblings Mildred Cornell, Nelson Towne, Kathleen LaMont, Leland Towne, and Richard Towne.

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

Cindy Anderson

Cindy May Pritty Anderson, age 63, passed away unexpectedly in her sleep on March 22, 2023.

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

Cindy was born on February 9, 1960, in Gouverneur to Elva June (Lawrence) Pritty and the late James W. Pritty. She graduated from Gouverneur Central School in 1978, but earned her real education at “SUNY Clearview,” as she would say.

Cindy worked for her friends, Joe and Carolyn Pistolesi, at the Clearview for over 20 years and retired from the ARC as a residential caretaker in 2022. There, she loved taking care of the residents.

If you knew Cindy, she was a hippie at heart and loved to talk to anyone and everyone. She never met a stranger and if she did, they weren’t strangers for very long. Cindy was the ultimate hostess and most of all, she loved hard. She spent all the time she could in her most favorite place, next to her pool in her “She Shack,” with her multitude of family and friends. Cindy loved to travel, especially to Georgia, to visit her daughter, her granddaughter, her sister, and her furry nephew (Booker). Her paradise would be to drive along a tropical beach in her Volkswagen Beetle, with the top down and the wind blowing through her strikingly white hair. She was just a small-town girl, but undeniably cultured in ways that only come with life experience.

Cindy married Mark Anderson on June 25, 1988, at the Gouverneur Presbyterian Church. She is survived by her husband, Mark, her mother, Elva “Punky” Pritty, daughters, Autumn Posadni and Tess Anderson, sisters, Darline McIntosh and Penny Pritty Coudriet (Jim). She is also survived by her granddaughters, Gillian and Lucille, nieces, Zoe Coudriet, Sherry McGrath (Dennis), and Chrissy Klock (Donny), great-nephews, Kody Klock and Anthony Warne, and her soul family, Clover (Jeff), Tammy and Erik.

She is predeceased by her father and her sister, Kimmy Pritty, fur babies Jimmy, Elva and Phil.

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

Jeanne Garner

Jeanne S. Garner, age 93 of Gouverneur, passed away surrounded by family on March 20, 2023 at Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center in Ogdensburg.

Calling hours will be held at French Funeral Home in Gouverneur on Monday, March 27th from 5:00-7:00 p.m. Her funeral service will be held on Tuesday, March 28, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at the Gouverneur First United Methodist Church. Burial will follow in Hailesboro Cemetery, followed by a reception luncheon at the Gouverneur First United Methodist Church. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Jeanne was born on December 15, 1929 in Syracuse to the late Frank F. and Helen C. (Kentner) Studor. She attended Edward Smith School and graduated from Nottingham High School in 1947. Jeanne earned her Bachelor degree in Home Economics from Syracuse University in 1951 and her Master’s degree from Cortland State College in 1954.

Jeanne married the love of her life, John M. Garner, on August 23, 1952 at Erwin Methodist Church in Syracuse. John passed away on May 21, 1998.

Jeanne was a kindergarten teacher at Split Rock Elementary School in Taunton, NY for five years, before teaching at St. James Catholic School in Gouverneur from 1972 until her retirement in 2007.

Jeanne enjoyed camping, sailing, canoeing, fishing, gardening, decorating her house for each season, and traveling with her family, and visiting all 50 states and most Canadian provinces. She was an active member of numerous civic organizations and the First United Methodist Church of Gouverneur. Jeanne made a positive and lasting impact on countless lives through her teaching, scouting leadership and church activities.

Jeanne’s survivors include her four sons and their wives, Doug and Diane Garner of Rindge, NH; Marty and Donna Garner of Summerville, SC; Stephen and Karen Garner of Port Ewen, NY; and Pete and Maureen Garner of Norfolk, VA. She is also survived by 12 grandchildren; Jason, Chris (Jenna), Amy (Mike), Jennifer (Fran), Matthew, Alan (Jeni), Jackie, Dave, Dan, Tony (Kelsey), Jimmy (Julie) and Emily; and 9 great-grandchildren; Arielle, Jett, Case, Lennon, Frannie, Juji, Amelia, Miles and Macie.

Jeanne is predeceased by her husband, her siblings, George Studor and Fran Brandt, a grandchild and a great-grandchild.

Donations in memory of Jeanne may be made to the Gouverneur United Methodist Church Stained Glass Windows Fund, PO Box 157, Gouverneur NY 13642 or the St. James School, 164 East Main St., Gouverneur NY 13642.

Jane Ellen Oradat

Jane Ellen Oradat, 71, of Gouverneur, NY, passed away on Saturday March 4, 2023.

Born March 29, 1951, in Coshocton, OH, she was the daughter of the late Joe Wallace and Laura Bernice (Marshall) Nuzum. Jane earned her Bachelor's degree from Marion College, Marion, IN, and worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant. She had been employed by United Helpers in Canton, NY and later worked as a Home Health Aid. In her free time, Jane enjoyed quilting and crocheting.

Jane is survived by her sons, Rev. Samuel Oradat (Missy) of Enola, PA and John Oradat (Wendy) of Rochester, NY; six grandchildren: Timothy, Joshua, Mikayla, Mackenzie, Axel and Lilly and a great granddaughter, Evelyn Rose. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Carl L. Oradat.

Arrangements for Jane are private. Those wishing to share memories and condolences with the family are invited to visit www.RonSmithFuneralHome.com.

Barbara L. Roeser

Barbara L. Roeser, age 83, of Gouverneur, passed away on March 10, 2023 at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Syracuse.

Calling hours were held at French Funeral Home in Gouverneur on Wednesday, March 15, 2023 from 4 – 7 p.m. Her funeral Mass was held at St. James Catholic Church on Thursday, March 16, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. Burial in the New St. James Cemetery will be in the spring.

Barbara was born on June 8, 1939 in Sherburne, NY to the late Harold and Myrta (Peck) Throop. She graduated from Sherburne Central School in 1957 and attended Alfred State.

She married Paul Roeser on October 19, 1963 at St. Malachy’s Church in Sherburne. The couple were married for 54 years when Paul passed away on February 16, 2018.

Mrs. Roeser worked as a secretary at General Electric in Syracuse from 1962 until 1965. She raised her children and then worked as a Teacher’s Aide in Special Education for St. Lawrence-Lewis BOCES from 1985 until her retirement in 2001.

Barbara was a devoted mother and grandmother. Her children and their spouses and her grandson were her life. She was also devoted to the ARC Jefferson-St. Lawrence New York and their mission to provide a meaningful life for people with disabilities.

Barbara is survived by her children, Stephen Roeser, Jacqueline and John Wheeler, and Adrienne and Jeffrey Carrick, and a grandson, Johnny Wheeler.

Barbara was a Board Member for the St. Lawrence County American Heart Association, a Chairman of the American Heart Association for Gouverneur, served on the Board of Directors for the ARC Jefferson-St. Lawrence New York since 1995 and was appointed to the Board of Governors in 2011. She was also a member of St. James Church where she was the Past President of the Parish Council and a member of the church choir.

In lieu of flowers, donations are strongly encouraged to be made to the ARC Jefferson-St. Lawrence New York, 6 Commerce Lane, Canton NY 13617. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Scott Gordon Hay

Scott Gordon Hay of Spring Hill, Florida passed away peacefully on March 2, 2023, at his home as he was surrounded by loving family.

Scott was born in Gouverneur, New York on May 2, 1950, and graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1968. Following graduation, Scott worked alongside his father Gordon at Dodds Motor Corporation, became owner, and sold the dealership to Ford Motor Company in 1987. He then became General Manager of Backus Ford in Syracuse New York and later General Manager of Fred Raynor Ford in Fulton New York until retirement in 2014. Scott and his beloved wife Wendy relocated to Spring Hill Florida upon his retirement.

Scott is survived by his wife Wendy, the love of his life, his two daughters, Jennifer Lynne Hay, Julie Anne Dumas (fiancé Brian Scheider), three grandchildren, Noah William Macaulay, Madelynne A Hay-Spano, and Lola Gordon Weaver, and his 2 fur kids Sophie and Oliver. Scott leaves behind his sister Christine (John) Gamble, a niece, Hilary (Alisa) Gamble, and a great niece, Maise Gamble.

Scott was a member of the First Presbyterian Church and the Gouverneur Elks Lodge, having received the honor of Exalted Ruler in 1975. He was an avid golfer and a charter captain based out of Henderson Harbor, New York, fishing for salmon. Scott loved fishing with his children and grandchildren in New York. He owned standard bred racehorses for years where he found himself in the winner’s circle on numerous occasions.

Scott’s love for his wife Wendy, children, grandchildren, and fur kids was unmatched. Those of us who had the pleasure of knowing Scott knew he had the ability to light up a room with his mere presence. He loved people in general and treated his friends as family. Scott was a giver, always lending a hand in need. His unwavering faith in God has guided him through his lengthy cancer battle. Scott carried the Hay fighting spirit proud.

The family would like to offer their gratitude for the compassionate care Scott received throughout his fight against cancer. Special thanks to Dr. Daniel Kerr and staff at the Advanced Treatment Cancer Center of Brooksville, FL, to HPH Hospice of Hernando County, and to Oak Hill Senior Living Rehabilitation in Spring Hill, FL.

A memorial service will be held at the First Presbyterian Church in Gouverneur, NY, on Saturday March 25, 2023. Calling hours will be at the church and begin at 10:00 am followed by a memorial service at 11:00 am. Arrangements are with the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur.

In lieu of flowers, the family would ask that donations in Scott’s memory be made to the following: HPH Hospice 12260 Cortez Blvd Brooksville, FL 34613 Website; Chaptershelp.org, Elks Lodge 2035 1419 US Hwy 11 Gouverneur, NY 13642 Website; Elks.org, SPCA of Hernando County 9075 Grant Street Brooksville, FL 34613 Website; Hernandocountyspca.com.

Patricia M. Klock

Patricia M. Klock passed away on March 1, 2023, fifteen days short of her 96th birthday. She was named Patricia by the nuns who delivered her in Ogdensburg N.Y., as she was born shortly before midnight on the eve of St, Patrick’s Day. Her mother Ruth Chateau was staying there since her husband, William Chateau, had recently died. Patricia remained in the convent orphanage with her older brother, Frank Chateau. Her mother left them to go live with relatives in Gouverneur to find work. Later with a new husband, John Backus, they were able to take the children out of the orphanage. The first to be taken out was Patricia. About a year later Frank was reunited with the family. All of the fore-mentioned persons predeceased her.

In Gouverneur, Patricia was a member of the class of l946, although she did not graduate. While roller skating at the Sylvia Lake roller skating rink, adjacent to the Sylvia Lake Hotel, she met John F. Klock, who became her husband They were married for 68 years before his death. Sylvia Lake became a big part of their lives. Before they could afford to buy a camp, they rented. However from 1955 on they bought and lived in several camps on the Lake.

Her survivors include her son, John H. Klock and his wife Connie, their son Thomas, his wife Becky and their two children, Sofia and Logan; and their daughter Jacqueline, her husband, Jeff Hogan, and their two children John Robert and Jace. They all summer at Sylvia Lake along with other members of the family, descendants of her brother Frank Chateau. Her nieces, Daria Cummings and Kay Chateau, spent every summer at the Lake before their untimely deaths. Her grand nieces and nephew: Dianne and her husband Jim Girard together with their children, Josh and Matt, and their families; Missy and Ryan Steele; and David Chateau. All spent many days at the Klock’s Sylvia Lake Camp with Aunt Pat or as her great grandchildren called her “GiGi”.

Patricia had many hobbies: knitting, baking, drawing, ceramics and stained glass. She baked cakes for sale on demand. She made an extraordinary five-layer cake for John and Connie’s wedding and transported it to Olean, New York for the wedding. She loved ceramics. She started a pottery/ceramics business where she taught ceramics and sold her wares. She also had a passion for stained glass. Her friend Maggie Hill was an excellent stained glass artisan and mentored Patricia in the art of stained glass. This allowed Patricia to use her artistic skills to compose many pieces. In her later years with her stained glass expertise she repaired many of the stained glass windows and other stained glass items in need of repair at St. James Church.

She was a great athlete with a tremendous desire to win. She sponsored a bowling

team for many years under the name “Pat’s Ceramics”. She had many games over 200. She also was a member of the Six Women’s Golf Team who represented the Gouverneur Country Club in matches for several years. In these sports, she had accumulated over 70 trophies that she donated to various youth groups.

When her husband retired, they took a chance on Florida but it was not to their liking and they moved back to Gouverneur across from her grand-niece, Dianne. Once re-acclimated. she reignited her stained glass hobby which resulted in some amazing pieces, Patricia was a life-long communicant at St. James Church. She was once the President of the Altar and Rosary Society.

She moved in with Connie and John and spent her last five years in Scotch Plains, N.J. she partook of many activities in the community and made many friends. She got to see her grandson, Tom, Becky and her great grandchildren frequently as they lived next door. She was able to see her granddaughter Jackie and her husband, Jeff ,and their sons who live in Norfolk, Virginia more easily.

Unfortunately, during the winter of 2022 she fell, was hospitalized and eventually moved to a nursing home for her last year of life. She received good care there and for seven months she roomed with a generous and caring roommate, Maria. She was beloved and will be missed.

In the summer, there will be a memorial service at St. James Church. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her honor to Sylvia Lake Association for its efforts to remove invasive milfoil.

Grant E. Davis Jr.

Grant E. Davis Jr., 74, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday February 28, 2023 at Canton-Potsdam Hospital.

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

Grant was born in Catskill, NY on December 11, 1948, the son of Grant and Lorraine (Delavare) Davis.

He graduated from Catskill High School in 1967.

Grant worked as an electrician in the Catskill area for many years and then in Florida until retirement.

He returned to New York where he has lived in Richville for the last 15 years.

He married Debra McEathron on December 20, 2003.

Grant had been a past member of the Kiskatom Vol. Fire Department and was an honorary member of the Richville Vol. Fire Department. He was a member of the Adirondack ATV Club in Harrisville, he enjoyed four wheeling, camping, hunting and fishing. His favorite pastime was spending time with family and his grandkids, along with his buddies Patches and Bearbear.

He is survived by his wife Debra, his children Duane and Erin Davis, Erica and Eric Krom, his step daughters Amy and George Allen, Wendy and Stephen Hadfield, Michelle and Basil Klock Jr., April Alguire, his grandchildren Sarah, Emmeline, and Colin, step grandchildren Sabrina, Jordan, Alyssa, Cody, Ashley, Ryan, Austin, Hunter, Donovan, Jenna, Suzi, Basil lll, Samuel, step great grandchildren Scarlett, Blake, and Nolan, his Aunt Mary Richardson and cousins. He is predeceased by his parents.

Memorial donations in memory of Grant are encouraged to Richville Vol. Fire Department or Friends 4 Pound Paws.

Clarence E. Jenne

Clarence “Clay” E. Jenne passed away on Monday, February 27, 2023.

His funeral will be held on Saturday, March 4th at 11am. Calling hours will be Friday, March 3rd from 4 – 7pm. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home, 16 Barnes Street, Gouverneur. A graveside service will be held in the spring at the Riverside Cemetery in Rossie. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Clarence was born in Antwerp on October 19, 1938, son of Gerald and Myrah (Worden) Jenne.

After graduating from Antwerp High School, he entered the US Navy and served from 1956-1959. He worked at Frinks Snowplow in Clayton, Gouverneur Ironworks, and at Corning, Inc., Canton as a skilled tradesman, until his retirement. He was honored to have been one of many responsible for the climate control of the initial grinding of the Hubble Mirror.

Clay was very active in his community. He served on the Rossie Planning Board for 10 years, was a Rossie Town Councilman for 4 years, a member of the Hammond Central School Board for 27 years, a board member of the Hammond Area Health Center for 40 years – serving the last 30 years as president, and a member of the Gouverneur Masonic Lodge for 42 years. He also initiated legislation for visual aids through Medicare (HR2050).

On May 20, 1961, he married Velda Simons and raised two children together; Ilene (David) Burke, Potsdam and David (Beth Gridley) Jenne, Lindley. He was very proud of his children and their accomplishments, and was especially proud of his four grandchildren; Megan Burke, Potsdam, Kaitlin Burke, Mississippi, David James (Amy) Jenne, Montana and Malynda Jenne, Florida. He is also survived by brothers and sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, and cousins.

He is predeceased by his parents, his brother, Leslie and a nephew Leslie Jr.

He enjoyed fishing, woodworking, and later in life the many phone calls with Fred, Jim, and Joe, in which they would reminisce about the good ole days or recapping their favorite games of sport, especially any Syracuse games. He also enjoyed the comfort of their dog, Simon.

Donations in his memory can be made to the Central Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CABVI), 408 Elizabeth Street, Utica, NY 13501 or the Hammond Area Health Center, c/o Joan Hadlock, Treasurer, 70 S. Main Street, Hammond, NY 13646.