Ilion High School

Class of 1938

Alumni News

1938 Ilion Yearbook

 

Digitized Class Yearbook....

The Mirror 1938 from the New York Heritage digital Ilion Free Public Library Yearbooks collection. Link opens in new browser tab. (added March 24, 2021)

 

Class History....

Now everything you wanted to know about the IHS Class of 1938 is at your fingertips....as published in the 1938 Mirror Class History.

 

Class Roster....

Class Roster, Officers and Honor Students, as published in the "The Mirror 1938", are available on the 1938 Class Roster page. (added December 4, 2021).

 

Class Historical Newspaper Articles....

     Newspaper articles about the IHS Class of 1938 (added December 22, 2021)

 

Senior Pictures....

Senior Pictures, from the 1938 Mirror, are available on the links below. Images were provided by Paul McLaughlin, Class of 1941. (April 3, 2005)

Allen - Bubb

Burton - Christiana

Cooper - Enjem

Evans - Ford

Gorman - Harvey

Hawley - Kiefer

Latt - McCall

McCorn - Miller

Mitchell - Pantarites

Pantarites - Smith

Snedeker - Trombley

Urtz - Wilson

Winsor - Young

Class Officers - (Travis, Fitch, Rudd, Cole)

 

Mary Cole and Carl Hansel - 1938 Art Editors

The cover story for July 2022 featured the 1938 yearbook art editors, Mary Cole and Carl Hansel.

 

Mary (Panarites) Gaspar IHS 1938 Keuka College.....

Katherine 'Katie' Panarites Brown
Katherine 'Katie' Panarites Brown - Photograph courtesy of Keukca College

Katherine 'Katie' (Panarites) Brown, IHS 1944 and Keuka College 1948 and her sister, Mary (Panarites) Gaspar IHS 1938 Keuka College 1942 were featured in the Keuka College web site article - The Panarites Sisters Left a Lasting Legacy at Keuka College. "Mary served as a trustee, and was the first alumna to be elected as trustee for two consecutive terms... Both Mary and Katie backed the College with more than just their words, as they each were consistent donors to the Keuka Fund, the Centennial Campaign, Bridge to Tomorrow campaign, the Campaign to Save Ball Hall, numerous memorial and scholarship funds, including the Panarites Sisters Scholarship Fund." Find out more by visiting this wonderful story about the Ilion Panarites sisters. (September 20, 2020)

 

Village 'Wall of Fame' ...

The village of Ilion's 'Wall of Fame' induction ceremony and plaque unveiling, honoring the Ilion High School Varsity Football team of 1935, will be held November 24, 2000 at 7:30 in the Ilion Municipal Building Auditorium. The 1935 Golden Bombers finished the season with a 9-0 record and outscored opponents 202-20. Team members included: Arthur Barnum, Kenneth Bleau, James Bowers, Sam Bubb, Frank Campbell, Jack Caswell, Richard Daily, James Foreman, Ted Leonard, Robert Long, John Mackin, Joseph Manion, John Morris and Konstantine 'Gus' Panarites. The team was coached by Joseph Bemis. The public is invited and refreshments will be served. (November 18, 2000)

 

An Incredible Love Story ...

Find out how two former Ilion class members found love 63 years later. Take a moment and read John Race Powers' An Incredible Love Story about classmate Nancy Brown Wright. (December 30, 2001)

 

Condolences.....

Mrs. Gladys (Eastham) Hendrix, IHS 1938, age 101, passed away on Friday, July 1, 2022 at the Pines of Utica with her loving family by her side. Born in Edmonton, Alberta, on November 6, 1920, Gladys was the daughter of the late Edward and Elizabeth (Aspinall) Eastham. She attended Ilion Central Schools and continued her education at the Utica School of Commerce. She worked at Remington Arms in the Personnel Department for 38 years before her retirement in 1978. It was at Remington Arms that she met and married Horace Hendrix, on January 23, 1980 before his passing on April 25, 1980. Gladys was a devoted member of over 80 years of the Eastern Star Chapter. She was a member of the Morning Star Methodist Church. Gladys is survived by her close cousins, Carol English, Deborah Kuhn, Mark Kuhn, and their families. She was predeceased by her sister, Helen Eastham; and cousin Eleanor Aspinall Kuhn. The family would like to thank Keith and Barb Dye for their friendship and kindness shown to Gladys over the years. Gladys' family will commemorate her life in a private gathering. She will be laid to rest in Armory Hill Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St., Ilion. (July 6, 2022)

 

Carl E. Burton, IHS 1938, age 99, passed away peacefully in his sleep on December 7, 2018, at The Grand Rehabilitation and Nursing Home in Ilion. Carl was born on August 22, 1919 in Schuyler; he was the son of the late Ernest and Marion Burr Burton. He was a 1938 graduate of Ilion Schools and played in the high school band and orchestra. Carl joined the US Navy serving during WWII as a Chief Petty Officer in Saipan and the Mariana Islands. On August 5, 1947 he married the former Leona Mehringer in Ilion. They were married for 66 years until Leona passed away on October 22, 2013. Carl worked as a foreman in the Remington Arms craft shop retiring in 1979. Carl was a member of the Ilion United Methodist Church, the Remington Arms 25 year club, the Ilion Fish and Game Club and the AARP. He was also a Life Member of VFW Post 502 and a member of The Musicians Union of Utica. Carl was an avid musician who loved to play, having been in several bands prior to WWII. Carl is survived by his adopted daughter and caregiver Jayne Sadlon Guchone of Cooperstown. Funeral services for Carl will be Tuesday, December 11, 2018 at 11:00 AM from the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home Inc., 100 Otsego St. Ilion, with full military honors, Rev. Robert Wollaber will officiate. Interment will take place in Crown Hill Memorial Park, Town of New Hartford. In keeping with Carl's wished there are no calling hours. Friends are asked to consider memorial to the American Heart Assoc. or the Mohawk Homestead; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. To leave an on line condolence please go to www.whiter-hendrix.com. (January 1, 2019)

 

Everett G. "Bud" Trombley IHS 1938, 95, of Utica, passed away Saturday, January 30, 2016 at the Presbyterian Home for Central NY. He was born March 14, 1920, in Ilion, the son of the late Theodore J. and Grace B. Everett Trombley, and received his education in Ilion schools. Everett served in the US Army in the Rhineland and Central Europe campaigns from 1944-1946. He was employed as a toolmaker at Remington-Dupont and later as a manufacturing engineer at UNIVAC and Hamilton Digital Controls. At one time, Everett was married to Dorothy Cosman. In May of 1978, he married Helen Travis. He is survived by his wife, Helen; four children from his first marriage, Thomas (Margot) Trombley of Spring Hill, FL, Everett, Jr. (Amelia) Trombley of Ilion, Sharron (Michael) Ferrara of New York Mills and Sandra (Edward) Carcione of Herkimer; six grandchildren; five great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his first wife, Dorothy; his son, Steven; two brothers, Theodore and Vincent; and his sister, Clarabelle. The funeral will be Wednesday at 5:00 pm at the Bentz Funeral Service, Inc., 13 Oxford Road, New Hartford, with Pastor Timothy Parisi officiating. Interment will be in Forest Hill Cemetery. A calling hour will be held Wednesday from 4-5:00 pm, prior to the service. The family would like to thank the staff of the Presbyterian Residential Community, as well as the Presbyterian Home for their excellent care and kindness shown to Everett during his stay. (Feb 13, 2016)

 

David F. Enjem Sr., IHS 1938, 96, of Herkimer, passed away on Sunday, January 10, 2016, at Folts Home, Herkimer. David was born on September 14, 1919 in Utica, the son of Francis and Matilda Hatem Enjem. He married Rose DeLorenzo on April 26, 1942 in Dolgeville. They shared a devoted union of 73 years. He graduated from Ilion High School in 1938. After graduation, he went into the family business, Enjem's Dry Goods Store, Inc. that had been run successfully by his widowed mother since 1924. He decided that he wanted to expand the store to include floor coverings. In 1939, he attended Armstrong Installation School in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Later that year he introduced floor coverings by Armstrong to the Mohawk Valley. The following year, he asked his brother, Joseph, to join him in the business. Enjem's outgrew three different locations in Ilion before it opened its Herkimer location. From there it added two more stores; one in Utica and one in Rome. In 1952, the Contract Division was introduced which further expanded the business to include floor and window treatments for commercial and public buildings as well as private homes in central New York. As the Contract Division continued to grow, they expanded throughout New York State and into Pennsylvania, Vermont and Connecticut. Many former employees went on to establish their own floor covering businesses after learning the trade at Enjem's. David was a member of the Annunciation Church in Ilion, St. John the Evangelist Church in New Hartford, the Knights of Columbus 518 Ilion, BPOE Lodge 1444, the Cedar Lake Golf Club, and The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association. His favorite pastimes included golf, fishing, and spending the winter in Florida and the summer in Cedar Lake. Besides his beloved wife Rose, of Claxton Manor, he is survived by two daughters, Matilda E. Sagaas of Herkimer and Carol Toukatly and her husband, John of Vonore, TN, one son, David F. Enjem and his wife, Josephine of Laguna Woods, CA; seven grandchildren, Leif E. Sagaas and his wife, Maura, Albany, Christopher W. Sagaas and his wife, Ann, Albany, Corey Rose Sagaas, Utica, Joyce Jackson and her husband Craig, Utica, Roseann Billings, Utica, Eric Enjem and his wife, Katie, Long Beach, CA and Stefan Enjem and his wife, Molly, Long Beach, CA; nine great grandchildren, Maisie Rose McCann Sagaas, Pearse Martin Sagaas, Willie Cull, Monica Jackson, Craig Jackson, Jr., Madison Rose Billings, Tyler Christopher Billings, Mia Josephine Enjem and Olivia Rose Enjem. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews. David was pre-deceased by his brother, Joseph F. Enjem, and son-in-law, Dennis R. Sagaas. The family would like to thank the staff at Folts Home for the loving, competent, and compassionate care given to Dave. The funeral will be on January 21, 2016 at St. John the Evangelist Church, 66 Oxford Rd., New Hartford, where a Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 AM. Interment will be in Armory Hill Cemetery, Ilion, in the spring. Calling hours will be on January 20, 2016 from 4:00 - 7:00 at Dimbleby, Friedel, Williams & Edmunds Funeral Home, 13 Oxford Rd., New Hartford. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Annunciation Church, St. John the Evangelist Church and the Folts Home Foundation. For online expression of sympathy go to www.dfwefh.com. (Feb 13, 2016)

 

Marie (Leonard ) Claffey IHS 1938, was born in Herkimer, New York, July 4th, 1920, and passed away February 12th, 2015, in Gilbert, Arizona. She was the daughter of Marjorie and Zeb Leonard of Herkimer, but lived and was raised by an Aunt and Uncle, Addie and Mortimer Wires, of Ilion, New York. She graduated from Ilion High School, class of 1938 and graduated from Utica School of Commerce in 1939. She worked at the Ilion Public Library, Acme Industries and Phoenix College Library in Arizona. She was married to Ellis L. Claffey of Lyons Falls, New York, on April 4th, 1944, in the Church of Annunciation, Ilion, New York. They were married for over 60 beautiful years. She had four children: Bruce Claffey of Hisperia, California; Diane Yoder of Chandler, Arizona; Brian Claffey of Prescott Valley, Arizona; and Colin Claffey of Rochester, New Hampshire. She leaves behind many grandchildren and great-grandchildren as well as nieces, nephews and cousins. She was a life member of the DAV auxilary, the 3rd Order of St Francis de Paulo, Herkimer, New York, and St. Martin's Church of Summersworth, New Hampshire. She was a wonderful, loving, devoted and caring mother, wife, grandmother, great-grandmother, friend and companion. She will be dearly missed. (June 28, 2015)

 

Jane C. (Hawley) Coffin, age 93, of Ilion, passed away on Tuesday, April 22, 2014 at Mohawk Valley Healthcare in Ilion. Jane was born in Ilion on September 9th, 1920 the daughter of the late Alfred and Laura (Jones) Hawley. Jane was a lifelong resident of Ilion and was educated in the Ilion School District graduating in 1938 as Member of the Sr. Honor Society and Charter Member of the Jr. Honor Society. Following school, Jane worked at Remington Rand, Sperry Rand and later at Schesch Florist. She was of the Protestant faith. On June 29, 1946 she was married in Mohawk, NY to Edward L. Coffin. They were married for 40 years until his passing on July 31, 1986. Jane is survived by her daughter and son-in-law Susan and Edward Walsh of Elsemere, NY; son Jeffrey and grand-children Jennifer, Laura and Jonathan of Long Island, NY; special niece Patty Stafford and many other nieces and nephews; her special friends Mary Jory and Linda Rice of Ilion. Jane is predeceased by her sister Ormetta Jones Goodrich. The family would like to thank the second floor staff at Mohawk Valley Healthcare for their care and support of Jane. Funeral Service for Jane will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2014 at 12:00 at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, Inc., 100 Otsego Street, Ilion, NY with Rev. Robert Wollaber officiating. Interment will be at Armory Hill Cemetery following the funeral. Friends may call from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral. In lieu of flowers please consider donations to the Ilion PBA or Ilion Ambulance. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. To send an on-line condolence please visit www.whiter-hendrix.com. (May 22, 2014)

 

Margaret R. (Latt) Urtz IHS '38, age 96, of Debary, Florida, formerly of Ilion and Frankfort, passed away on Wednesday, March 12, 2014, at Halifax Health Hospice, Orange City, FL. She was born on January 3, 1918, in Frankfort, the daughter of Charles Ellis Latt and Maude (Jones) Latt, and graduated from Ilion High School in 1938. She was married to Paul S. Urtz on February 14, 1946, at the Church of the Annunciation, Ilion. He died on July 30, 1995. Margaret was employed as a bookkeeper at Herkimer Tool and Machining Corp. for twenty-seven years, retiring in 1978. She has been a resident of Florida since 1979. Margaret attended the Church of the Annunciation, Ilion, and was a member of St. Ann's Catholic Church, Debary, FL. She was also active in amateur radio (KD40PQ). Survivors include her sister, Helen Avery, of Inlet, NY; her sister-in-law, Cathy Latt; her brother-in-law, Joseph Urtz; and her sister-in-law, Lucy Joy, all of Ilion; her special niece, Linda Rider; and several other nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by three brothers, Charles, Frederick and Robert Latt; a sister, Cecilia Latt; and an aunt, Reba Culver.Friends and relatives are invited to attend her funeral services on Friday, March 21, 2014, at 10:00 a.m. at the Applegate-Day & Enea Family Funeral Home's newly reopened location at 102 West St., Ilion, and at 11:00 a.m. at the Church of the Annunciation, where a Funeral Mass will be celebrated by Father Shane M. Lynch. Spring burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Frankfort. Calling hours are Thursday, March 20, 2014, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Applegate-Day & Enea Family Funeral Home's newly reopened location at 102 West St., Ilion. Anyone wishing to share a memory of Margaret, or add to her online memorial, may go to www.applegateandday.com. In lieu of flowers, as an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be made to the Halifax Health Hospice, 1625 Veteran's Memorial Pkwy., Orange City, FL 32768. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Margaret's service arrangements and supervision were prearranged and entrusted to family Funeral Director, Don Applegate. (April 23, 2014 modified March 20, 2016)

 

Ruth Mary (Bennett) Collea, 92, Ilion, passed away peacefully at home, Monday, April 8, 2013, with her loving family there with her. She was born September 28, 1920, in Ilion, the daughter of the late Roger and Lillian Kellogg Bennett. She was a 1938 graduate of Ilion High School and earned her nursing degree from Memorial Hospital, Utica. On July 21, 1945, Ruth married Joseph Collea at Historic St. John's Church, a union blessed for 67 years. She retired in 1981 from the Mohawk Valley General Hospital, after many years of dedicated service as an RN. She belonged to the Morning Star Methodist Church in Ilion. She was a member of AARP and former officer of the Col. Marinus Willett-Mohawk Valley Chapter of DAR. Ruth's life was dedicated to her church and family. Ruth is survived by her husband, Joseph Collea, Sr., sons and daughters-in-law, Joseph Jr.& Barbara Collea, Ilion; Kevin & Becky Collea, Canandaigua; and daughter Nancy Curley, Ilion. She leaves 10 grandchildren; Julie & David Ball, Ilion; Bridget & Scott Brownrigg, Delran, NJ; Joseph III & Laurena Collea, Afton; Kristin Collea, Williamsville; Robert Collea, Rochester; Benjamin Collea, N. Tonawanda; Eric Collea, W. Yarmouth, MA; Justin, Cassie, & Samantha Collea, Canandaigua. She also was blessed with 9 great-grandchildren: Brittany & Joey Kinch, Brandon, Kyle, & Matthew Brownrigg, Benjamin Collea, Kiley & Connor Ball, and Joseph Collea IV. She also leaves in-laws: Jerome & Joyce Collea, Robert & Jeanne Collea, Eileen Philo, Mary Ann Collea, and Marilyn Miner, plus many nieces and nephews. Ruth was predeceased by her brother, Harold Bennett. Her family thanks the staff of Hospice & Palliative Care and St. Luke's Hospital, Allen Calder Wing, for their compassion and support through this very difficult time. A very special thanks go to Nancy and Emily for their wonderful, loving care of Ruth. Calling hours for Ruth will be Thursday, April 11, 2013, from 2-3 p.m., followed by a funeral service, Rev. Robert Wollaber officiating. Interment will take place at Armory Hill Cemetery, Ilion. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that a donation be made in Ruth's memory to Hospice & Palliative Care, 4277 Middle Settlement Rd., New Hartford, NY 13413. Arrangements are with the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, Inc., 100 Otsego St., Ilion. For online condolences, go to www.whiter-hendrix.com. (April 21, 2013)

 

Thelma Agnes (Reynolds) Hart 92, formerly of Fulmer St. in Mohawk, NY passed away on Friday September 28, 2012 at the Presbyterian Home in New Hartford, where she had been a resident for the past two years. Thelma was born in Ilion, NY, September 3, 1920, the daughter of the late Charles and Edna (Hempstead) Reynolds. She was a 1938 graduate of Ilion Central School and worked as an assembler at the Remington Arms Co. through the years of WWII. On June 24, 1944 Thelma married Edmund J. "Ned" Hart he passed away on June 8, 2011. After the birth of her twin boys, she left the war effort workforce and became a dedicated and active housewife, aunt and grandmother for the rest of her years. Thankfully her skills and love of cooking were joyfully shared and will be passed on through many generations. Thelma is survived by her children Brian (Julie) Hart of Honeoye Falls, NY; Cathy (Dennis) Prosser of Walworth, NY; Tom Hart of Truxton, NY; grandchildren Tammy (Joseph)Dyer; Tina (Scotty)Smith; Jed Hart; Matti Hart; and great grandchildren Jeremy, Joseph and Zachary. She also leaves two sister- in- laws, Sophie and Virginia Reynolds; as well as several special people that were close to her throughout her life; Beverly (Herbert-d. April 2012) McKinney, Barbara Wedow, Nancy F. Hart, Judy Dutcher, Lisa (Terry) Stanley and their children Sierra and Lorelei. She also leaves several nieces, nephews and cousins. Thelma was pre-deceased by her infant son David; brothers George, Fred, and Robert(Leola)Reynolds, sisters Arlene ( Gordon) Fike, Iola ( Jim) Stephens, Adelaide ( Ivan) Bunce. Thelma was a member of the Mohawk Blessed Sacrament Church and their Rosary Society. Calling hours for Thelma will be held on Friday, October 5, 2012 from 11:00 am-1:00 pm at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home Inc., 100 Otsego St. Ilion, NY. A funeral service will begin at 1:00 pm at the funeral home; Sr. Mary Jo Tallman will officiate. Interment will follow in Calvary Cemetery in Herkimer, NY. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial donations to The Presbyterian Home, the Meals On Wheels program, or Frankfort-Ilion food pantry. Envelopes are available at the funeral home. Thelma's family would like to thank the staff at the Presbyterian Home for the special care given her during her stay. On line condolences may be sent by going to www.whiter-hendrix.com. (Oct 5, 2012)

 

Edna E. (Farley) Strong, 90, formerly of 5 Miles Ave., Passed away Saturday, February 4, 2012 at Mohawk Valley Health Care. Edna was born on July 8, 1921 in Frankfort the daughter of the late Charles and Helen Edah (Soper) Farley. She was educated in Ilion. On July 13, 1939 she married Henry Strong in Little Falls, Henry passed away May 23, 1997. Edna worked as a group leader at G.E. in Utica and then as a LPN at the Herkimer Memorial Hospital retiring in 1981. Edna was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Church and was a volunteer with the Salvation Army for many years. Edna is survived by her son Charles of Mohawk; sisters Dorothy Cioch of Herkimer and Lillian and her husband Henry Loacano of W. Winfield; her grandchildren Wendy and Robert Swanson of Phoenix AZ, David and Barbara Strong of Ilion, Lisa and Don Peterson of Ilion, James Strong of Mohawk and Andrew Strong of Little Falls. She also leaves several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her son David; sisters Marie DesGrossliers and Evelyn Edgett and a brother Charles Farley. In keeping with Edna's wishes there are no calling hours or funeral service interment will be in the Armory Hill Cemetery in Ilion. Friends are asked to consider memorial donations to either Catholic Charities or HOSPICE, envelopes are available at the funeral home. On line condolences may be sent by going to www.whiter-hendrix.com. Funeral arrangements are with the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, Inc. 100 Otsego St., Ilion. (Feb 20, 2012)

 

Dr. Frederick James Winsor, Dr. Frederick James Winsor died at his home in Fanwood, NJ, on Tuesday, May 25, 2010, at age 88. He had a remarkable life and a long career as a metallurgical engineer. He was born August 22, 1921, in the town of Ilion, in the Mohawk River Valley of upstate New York, and spent his childhood there, graduation from Ilion High School in 1938. Mr. Winsor attended Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute from 1938 to 1946, earning a BS, MS, and PhD in Metallurgical Engineering. His PhD research involved analysis of metal from enemy aircraft. He worked for the Armour Research Foundation, Standard Oil of Indiana, DuPont, and Foster Wheeler Corporation, where he was in charge of the Welding Development Laboratory for over 25 years. Subsequently, he was an independent metallurgical engineering consultant for approximately 20 years. He taught courses in welding and metallurgy at Brooklyn Polytechnic Institute and Kean College.Dr. Winsor was a life member of the American Welding Society (AWS) and the American Society for Metals (now ASM International), served as Chairman of the AWS NJ Section in 1938-1984, was a member of its Executive Committee, and assisted as a test supervisor and proctor for Certified Welding Inspector exams. In 1991, AWS presented him with the Samuel Miller Memorial Medal Award for contributions to the art of welding. In 2007, the NJ AWS Section honored him with a Meritorious Award for his dedicated activities. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Gertrude K. Winsor; son Richard E. Winsor, daughter Nancy W. Clayton, daughter Linda W. DeLap, son Donald C. Winsor; four grandchildren: Daniel J. Winsor, Margaret I. DeLap, Karl G. Winsor, and Eric D. Winsor; niece Mary Elizabeth Winsor, nephew Ned Winsor, niece Jen Campbell, great-nephew Edward Winsor, and many other nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Glen Merritt Winsor and Elizabeth Mary Miller; brothers Kasson, Earl, Richard, Edward, and Gerald Winsor; and son Frederick Winsor Jr. A celebration of his life was held on Saturday July 17 at 11 am at the Morristown Unitarian Fellowship (http://muuf.org), 21 Normandy Heights Road, Morristown, New Jersey. Memorial contributions may be made to the Fanwood Rescue Squad, Treasurer, 123 Watson Road, Fanwood, NJ 07023, or to the Center for Hope Hospice, 1900 Raritan Road, Scotch Plains, NJ 07076. (Aug 29, 2010)

 

Mr. Edward O. Wood, age 88, formerly of Ilion, NY and 17 year resident of Molokai Park, Leesburg, FL passed away peacefully Wednesday, February 10, 2009 at the home of his son, in Winterville, NC. His wife, Mary Palmer Wood, predeceased him. They shared 60 wonderful years of marriage before her passing on July 29, 2007. He attended Akron University, fought in the 87th Infantry Division during World War II in the European theater, and after the war, returned to Ilion to manage the family business. In 1959 he was appointed Ilion postmaster, and retired from that position in July, 1980. During his retirement, he enjoyed volunteer work for the Lake County Sheriff's Department, and Florida Waterman Hospital. He is survived by his two sons Kenneth E. Wood and wife Carol (Robbins), of Macedon, NY, Victor H. Wood and wife Linda (Backman) of Winterville, NC, sister Carolyn Roberts of Utica, NY, brother Harry Alan Wood of Melbourne, FL, sister-in-law, Joyce Prosser of Leesburg, FL, six grandchildren, Nathan Wood and wife Deborah of Macedon, NY, Melanie Rellinger and husband Brian of Bowling Green, OH, Jason Wood, Justin Wood and wife Christi, Jonathan and Jerrod Wood, all of NC, and four great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. A memorial service is planned for 10:00 am, Friday, February 20, 2009 at St. James Episcopal Church, Leesburg, FL. Commitment will follow at The Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell, FL. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to St. Augustine's Episcopal Church, Ilion, NY, St. James Episcopal Church, Leesburg, FL, or Florida Hospital Waterman, Tavares, FL.(Feb 22, 2009)

 

The family of Lloyd C. Schafer IHS 1935, age 91 and Jayne M. (Leary) Schafer IHS 1938 age 88, were saddened by their deaths only three weeks apart. Lloyd passing away on Sunday, June 8, 2008, in Ocala, Florida, and Jayne passing away Sunday, June 28, 2008, at her daughter Joanne and Jack Valent's home in Cashiers, NC. Lloyd was born in Utica, N.Y., the son of the late Charles and Blanche Schafer on November 24, 1916, and received his education in the Ilion School District. After graduation Lloyd served in the Marines during WWII in the South Pacific. On October 26, 1940, he married the former Jayne M. Leary. Jayne was born in Ilion, N.Y. on October 16, 1919, the daughter of the late John and Mary Walsh Leary, and received her education in the Ilion School District. Lloyd was employed as a design engineer with Remington Arms in Ilion, Jayne was a stay at home mom, raising their children Linda and Joanne. Lloyd was a well-known artist in the area for many years. After his retirement they moved to Old Forge where Lloyd has his Singing Waters Art Studio in Old Forge, N.Y., and later in Silver Springs, Florida. During his retirement, Lloyd completed and sold over four thousand watercolor paintings as well as helping out in community projects such as painting the signage on the Inlet Fire Dept.. trucks, and the train bridge in Old Forge. Both Lloyd and Jayne were members of the Old Forge Art Council and members of St. Joseph's Mission Church in Silver Springs, Fla. Surviving them is a daughter and son-in-law, Joanne and Jack Valent of Cashiers, N.C.; five grandchildren and six great-grand children. Lloyd is survived by a sister, Ruth Hanson in Silver Springs, Fla., and Jayne is survived by a sister, Louise Falzareno of Ilion. They were predeceased by their daughter, Linda Schafer and a grandson, Anthony (Chipper) Angelichio. In keeping with Lloyd and Jayne's wishes, there are no calling hours. There will be a memorial service held in Cashiers, N.C. and Springlake Village at a later date. Lloyd and Jayne were married for 68 years and will be laid to rest together in Old Forge, N.Y. in the fall. Arrangements are with the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home Inc., 100 Otsego Street, Ilion. Friends re asked to consider memorials in Lloyd's and Jayne's memory to the Arts Guild Endowment Fund, PO Box 1144, Old Forge, New York, 13420.Online condolences may be left by going to www.whiter-hendrix.com. (July 13, 2008 - added January 25, 2022)

 

Elizabeth (Betty) Sullivan Edwards, 88, of Ilion, passed away on Sunday, May 18, 2008, at St. Luke's Hospital, with family members at her side. Bette was a long time resident of Ilion, raising her family and residing for over 50 years at her home on Old Forge Rd. Bette was born on June 24, 1919, the daughter of the late James and Kathleen (Keefe) Sullivan. She began her education in Little Falls and later attended Annunciation School in Ilion, graduating from Ilion High School in the Class of 1938. On July 7, 1945, she was united in marriage to Lester W. Edwards. They were married for 30 years until his passing on November 25, 1975. Mrs. Edwards was employed as a telephone operator for over 40 years, working for New York Telephone, Griffiss Air Force Base and finally with the Library Bureau, retiring in 1938. She enjoyed working as an election inspector for many years. She had a love of history, government and politics and felt that it was every American's responsibility to take advantage of their right to vote. Bette was an avid reader and a lifelong member of the Ilion Public Library, where she was once a literacy volunteer. Most of all, Bette was a wonderful mother, grandmother and friend. She loved and enjoyed her family and will be dearly missed by all. Mrs. Edwards is survived by her children, Mark and Shirley Edwards, of Raleigh, NC, Dale Edwards and his fiancee, Sue Harrod, of Mohawk, Susan and Scott Kerber, of Ilion, and Beth Edwards, also of Ilion. She is also survived by her brothers, Jack and his companion, Beverly, of Virginia, and Jim and Noreen Sullivan, of NJ, and her grandchildren: Brenden Edwards; Scott and Kim Allen and their children, Nick and Ben; Kari and Rick Slaughter and their son, Stephen Shepardson; Kate and Gary Clark and their children, Stephanie, Angela and Christopher; Jeremy and Francine Kerber and their twins, Ellainah and Samantha; and Kelly and David Archer and their children, Victoria, Jennifer, Michelle, Stephanie, Alyssa and Emma. She is also survived by several nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by her sisters, Kathleen McLean and Anne Sullivan. Funeral services for Mrs. Edwards will be held on Thursday, May 22, 2008, at Noon at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, Inc., 100 Otsego St., Ilion, with Fr. Anthony Barratt officiating. Interment will follow in theArmory Hill Cemetery. Friends may call on Wednesday, May 21, from 4-7 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial donations in Bette's name may be made to the St. Jude's Children's Hospital. Envelopes are available at the funeral home. Online condolences may be left by going to www.whiter-hendrix.com. (June 6, 2008)

 

John (Stan) Merrick, age 85, passed away in his sleep on Sunday night, November 28th, 2004 just 14 days after celebrating his 85th birthday. Stan is survived by his daughter, Marilyn Merrick, his two sons Bob Merrick of Magalia, CA, Ken Merrick of Truth or Consequences, NM and 10 grand children. In honoring his request, there will be no viewing or service. Stan will be cremated and his remains will join those of Kay, his wife of 54 years. Stan will be greatly missed by his friends and family. If you would like to share your remembrances of this wonderful man with the family, please address them to:
Marilyn Merrick 79083 Delta St, Bermuda Dunes, CA 92203. (December 3, 2004)

 

John F. "Jack" Fischer, age 83, a long time resident of Otsego St., Ilion, passed away Tuesday, February 5, 2002 at Faxton Hospital, Utica. Jack was born March 17, 1918, in Ilion, son of William and Mabel (Staley) Fischer. He attended Ilion schools and was a graduate of Ilion High School, Class of 1938. Jack was a proud veteran of WW II, serving his country with the U.S. Army Air Corps as a Staff Sgt. He was a prisoner of the Japanese for 3 1/2 years during WW II and a survivor of the Battan Death March. On July 19, 1947, he was united in marriage to Audrey L. Jarvis in Middleville. Mrs. Fischer passed away May 18, 2001. Jack was last employed by the Dept. of Environmental Conservation in Herkimer, retiring in 1997. Prior to that he worked for many years at Sperry Rand/UNIVAC in Ilion and Utica. He was a member of the Ilion First Presbyterian Church, a life member of the Ilion Elks Lodge 1444, Mohawk American Legion Crowley Barnum Post 25, American Defenders of Battan and Corregidor, and the Ilion Fish and Game Club. Jack was an avid outdoors-man, enjoying hunting, fishing and many treasured times at the family camp at Pleasant Lake. Survivors include three daughters and two sons-in-law, Linda and Stanley Bilinski, of Salisbury Center, Cora and Larry Bull, of Herkimer and Elaine Salek, of Dolgeville; two sons and one daughter-in-law, Fred Fischer, of Walnut Springs, TX and David and Laurie Fischer, of Ilion; nine cherished grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Jack was predeceased by three brothers, William, Albert and Clifford Fischer and a sister, Emily King. Jack's funeral service will be held Friday at 8 p.m. at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, 102 West St., Ilion with Rev. Victor McKusik, Pastor of the Ilion First Presbyterian Church officiating. Interment in Armory Hill Cemetery with Full Military Hon! ors will take place later this spring at a date and time to be announced. Family and friends are invited to visitation Friday from 5-8 p.m. prior to the funeral service at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home. The Ilion Elks will conduct their memorial service for Jack at 7 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Jack's family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the Masonic Home staff on 3N for the care and compassion shown to him during his stay, and also Kathy and Dennis Prior for all the special favors. Memorial contributions in Jack's name may be considered to the World War II Memorial, Washington, DC or the Alzheimer's Assoc. Donation envelopes are available at the funeral home. (January 22, 2002)

 

J. Franklin Young, age 81, of North Bellinger Street passed away early Thursday morning, Aug. 2, 2001, in his home. He was born on April 9, 1920, in Norwood, Ohio, son of the late Rhea and Anna Vinison Young. After the unexpected death of his mother in 1935, he moved with his father to Ilion in 1936 and graduated Ilion High School in 1938. On April, 12, 1957, he married Heidy Wetterwald of Dornach, Switzerland, in Ilion. In 1963 they moved to Herkimer coming from Ilion. They had resided at 412 N. Main St., until this last year. Mr. Young was a banker for more than 45 years. He began his career with the former Ilion National Bank where he attained the position of cashier. After the merger of Ilion National and Marine Midland Trust Co. he was assigned to the Herkimer office as assistant vice president. In 1969 he joined GFM Machines Inc. at the Oneida County Airport where he served as treasurer and director. He retired in 1986 as the manager of the Norstar (Oneida National) Bank, Frankfort branch. Mr. Young was deeply involved in volunteer organizations for 40 years, believing that whoever lives on this earth should strive to leave things better than they found them. He was a founder and first campaign co-chairman of the Valley United Way (formerly the United Way of Frankfort, Herkimer, Ilion and Mohawk) in 1960 and was the treasurer from 1960 to 1987. He was a founder and the first president of the Herkimer County Chamber of Commerce in 1968 and continued for many years as a director. He was also very involved with the General Herkimer Council (Boy Scouts) Stamp Committee, where he served as treasurer and co-chairman. The committee organized by George Sehring in the early 1970s initiated the issuance of a postage stamp to honor General Nicholas Herkimer and other patriots who fought at the Battle of Oriskany in 1777. The committee was successful in getting the stamp issued with the first Day Ceremony held at Herkimer County Community College on Aug. 6, 1977, the 200th Anniversary of the battle. He was also a past president of the Herkimer Rotary Club, a member of the Folts Homes Board of Directors, where he had served as secretary of the board; he was a past president of the Ilion Conservation Club and of the now-defunct Herkimer County Arts Council. He was a member of Ilion Lodge 591 F & AM, where he was a past master and had the distinction of being the youngest master to serve the lodge at the age of 27, a 32nd degree mason with the Valley of Utica AASR and also a member of the Ziyara Shrine AAONMS. He was a member of the American Philatelic Society and treasurer of the American Allvetio Society. A community-spirited man, he was a friend to many and will never be forgotten. He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Heidy Young; two sons and their wives, Christopher and Janice Young of Wrentham, Mass., Steven and Mary Lourdes Young of Portland, Ore.; five grandchildren, Madeleine and Charlotte in Massachusetts, Catherine, Maria and Heidy in Oregon. He also leaves his stepmother, Ann Young of Merritt Island, Fla., along with a half-sister, Barbara and a stepbrother John, both of Florida. A celebration of Frank's life will take place Wednesday at 4 p.m. in the Herkimer Reformed Church, North Main Street, Herkimer. The Rev. Donald Battjes, pastor, will officiate. A reception will follow the service in the church. Memorial donations may be made to the Valley United Way or the charity of your choice. Funeral arrangements are with Fenner Funeral Home Inc., Herkimer. (August 7, 2001)

 

Ms. Mary Panarites Gasper passed away Monday, December 28, 1998, after a brief illness. Mary graduated with the IHS Class of 1938, as salutatorian of her class. She received her Bachelor Degree from Keuka College, magna cum laude, and was salutatorian of her class. She received her law degree from the University of Colorado. She married Bela (Bill) Gasper in April 1969 in Herkimer.

Mary grew up working in her family's restaurant, the "Ilion Candy Kitchen", later known as the "J. Panarites Restaurant". She was associated with the late attorney Fred O'Donnell of Ilion after admittance to the NY State Bar Association. She opened her own practice in 1954, now known as Panarites & Asnoe, Ilion. She was a member and past president of the Herkimer County Bar Association. She served as Ilion's first woman village attorney, and was counsel to the Frankfort School Board and the Ilion Housing Authority.

Mary was an active and dedicated community leader. She was an organizer, director and driving force behind the establishment of the Ilion Marina. Mary encouraged many young people in their educational endeavors and supported the Ilion Central School District Foundation Board. A scholarship fund was established by Mary and her brother Gus, at the Ilion High School, and is awarded annually in their parents name. Those wishing to make contributions to the "James C. and Helen Panarites Family Memorial Scholarship Fund" may do so, c/o Ilion Central High School, Weber Avenue, Ilion NY 13357.

She leaves her husband, Bela, sister, Anastasia Sprague of Phoenix, Ariz, sister and best friend, Katherine (Katie) Brown and husband Crist of New Hartford; and brother-in-law, Leslie Gaspar and wife Eva of Barrie Ontario. She also leaves her many nieces and nephews; her nephew, John C. Brown, Utica, was the best man in her wedding.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, December 31 at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home and at 10:30 at St. Peter & Paul Orthodox Church, East Herkimer. (December 29, 1998)

 

Gus Panarites

Mr. Constantine J. "Gus" Panarites passed away at home Monday, December 7, 1998, after a brief illness. Mr. Panarites was a life long Ilion resident. He was born April 5, 1919. He graduated with the IHS Class of 1938. He received his Bachelors, Masters and Certificate of Advanced Study from Syracuse University. During WW II, he served his country as a Marine.

Gus" grew up in his family's restaurant, the "Ilion Candy Kitchen", later known as the "J. Panarites Restaurant". He began his career in 1944, when then-Superintendent Earl P. Watkins asked him to serve as athletic director at Ilion High School. Mr. Panarites resigned, after a year as athletic director, to manage his family's business, the J. Panarites Restaurant on Otsego Street, Ilion. While running the restaurant, he earned his master's degree in business education from Syracuse University. In 1959, he rejoined the Ilion High School Faculty, teaching History. He ended his career with his appointment to the post of Superintendent of the Ilion Central School District, in 1975. As school superintendent, Mr. Panarites led the district through construction of the Remington School and the subsequent elementary school consolidation. He retired in 1938.

Gus was an avid fan of Ilion Central School and Syracuse University sports and scholastic programs. He was a director on the Ilion Central School District Foundation Board. A scholarship fund was established by Gus and his sister Mary, at the Ilion High School, and is awarded annually in their parents name. Those wishing to make contributions to the "James C. and Helen Panarites Family Memorial Scholarship Fund" may do so, c/o Ilion Central High School, Weber Avenue, Ilion NY 13357.

He leaves two daughters and one son, Dr. Helen Panarites of Atlanta, GA, Febronia and her husband, Steven Murphy, of Whitesboro, and James C. and wife, Tammy Panarites, of Ilion. He also leaves the mother of his three children, Dorothy Annes Panarites, of Syracuse, his three sisters and two brothers-in-law, three grandchildren, several nieces and nephews; and many close and dear friends.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, December 10 at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home and at 10:30 at St. Peter & Paul Orthodox Church, East Herkimer. (December 8, 1998)

 

Bombers Buzz Website ....

Marjorie Fay Worthington, Housewife, email, Woodbury, NJ, registered. (March 15, 2004)

John Merrick, Retired, Desert Hot Springs, CA, re-registered. (March 3, 2004)

Nancy Brown Wright, from Surry, NH, email is attending the mega-reunion. (June 7, 2002)

Harold Casey, Ilion, NY, is attending the mega-reunion. (May 30, 2002)

Marie Leonard Claffey, email, from Florence, AZ, is attending the mega-reunion. (May 24, 2002)

Elizabeth Sullivan Edwards, from Ilion, NY, submitted the mega-reunion survey form. (March 7, 2002)

Ruth Bennett Collea, from Ilion, NY, submitted the mega-reunion survey form. (Feb 27, 2002)

Ruth Cooper Brown, retired RN, email, Carlsbad, CA, registered. (February 17, 2002)

William Mathews, Executive - Retired, email, Naples, FL, registered. (modified January 21, 2002)

Nancy Brown Wright, from Surry, NH, email is looking forward to coming to the Sesquicentennial Reunion in October 2002. (December 28, 2001)

 


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