Prior Condolence Listings are on a separate page.
Betty Lou (Sprague) Whittemore, IHS 1941 96, died June 8, 2020, at A.O. Fox Nursing Home where she has lived since February 2016. She was born in Ilion, on March 8, 1924, the daughter of Clarence and Jennie (Wilcox) Sprague. She was the youngest of five children. She graduated from Ilion High School in 1941 and Utica School of Commerce in 1942. Betty Lou married her high school sweetheart Robert Whittemore on July 24, 1943, in Savannah, Georgia, where he served in the Army. They had four children. Betty worked many years in the advertising department at the Oneonta Daily Star and also worked at the Palladium Times in Oswego. She retired in 1992 as secretary of the First United Methodist Church in Oneonta. Betty Lou's family was the most important thing in her life and she loved each member dearly. She also enjoyed playing cards with her card club friends and her good friends at Nader Towers. She enjoyed attending the sporting events of her grandchildren and great grandchildren and other activities. She was a member of the Otego United Methodist Church where she served on the Pastor Parish Relations committee. Church was a big part of Betty's life no matter where she lived. Betty Lou is survived by her son, Brian (Jan Best) Whittemore, Remer, Minnesota; daughters, Barbara (Joe) Stanton, Otego and Bethany (Terry) Vargason, Meridian, Idaho; grandchildren, Erik (Amy) Whittemore, Marietta, Georgia, Ian (Amy) Whittemore, Bradenton, Florida, Lori (Matt) Mannina, Otego, Kevin (Wende Ebberts) Stanton, Otego, Kyle (Caroline) Vargason, Boise, Idaho, Derrick (Chelsea) Vargason, Warren, Oregon; great-grandchildren, Ashley (Ryan Martini) Mannina, Otego, Sarah (Joe) Stento, West Oneonta, Kylee Stanton, North Carolina, Alex and Emily Whittemore, Georgia, Nate and Abby Whittemore, Florida, Austin Vargason, Idaho, Maeve and Mila Vargason, Oregon; and great-great-granddaughter, Adelyn Martini, Otego. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Betty Lou was predeceased by her husband, Bob; her son and daughter-inlaw, Brad and Charlene Whittemore; two sisters, Joan (Ronald) Ward and Edith (George) Graves; two brothers, Chuck (Helen) Sprague and Dick (Marge) Sprague and her brother-in-law, Harold (Edna) Whittemore. Mom was a loving, caring and always supportive mother. She was very special to all of us and we will miss her more than words can say. We thank the many caring people at Fox Nursing Home for taking such great care of our mother. A very special thank you to Bob and Lucy Ingalls for the many rides to church and for the weekly visits to the nursing home. She always looked forward to seeing you. We so appreciate you. Also, a tremendous thank you goes to Mom's great-niece, Heida Armao, for the loving and special care you gave Mom in the nursing home. There was never a dull moment with Heidi around and Mom enjoyed your visits so very much. We also thank Carol Thayer for her weekly visits to Mom. A Memorial service will be held when it is safe and responsible to do so because of the corona virus. Burial will be in the Otego Evergreen Cemetery, Otego, at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent in Betty's name to the A.O. Fox Nursing Home Activities Fund, 1 Norton Ave., Oneonta, NY 13820, or the Otego United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 288, Otego, NY 13825. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the Lewis, Hurley & Pietrobono Funeral Home, 51 Dietz St., Oneonta. A guest book is available to sign by visiting www.lhpfuneralhome.com. (July 5, 2020)
Eunice J. (Smith) Busher, IHS 1941, age 96, a lifelong resident of Mohawk passed away of Friday, September 13, 2019 at the The Grand, Ilion where she has been a resident since July of 2017. She was born in Mohawk, NY on February 12, 1923 the daughter of the late Leslie and Blanche (Cunningham) Smith. She was a graduate of Ilion High School Class of 1941. On July 3, 1948 she was united in marriage for 58 years to the late William Busher in the Mohawk Reformed Church, Mohawk. Mr. Busher predeceased her on October 22, 2006. Mrs. Busher was a veteran of WWII serving with the US Navy. Entering service January 15, 1944 working in the Office of Naval Logistics in Washington DC. She was honorably discharged March 21, 1946. Mrs. Busher was a 65 year life member of the Mohawk American Legion Post 25 Mohawk, NY. She was also a member of the Mohawk Reformed Church, Mohawk. Mrs. Busher was employed by several insurance companies throughout the Mohawk Valley. Her last employment was with the Crocker Agency. She is survived by a son William Busher and his wife Elaine, Syracuse, her daughters Susan Traxler and her husband Bob, Dorr, MI and Ellen Gregory and her husband Donald, Ilion, three grandchildren Stephanie Lemere and her husband Phil, Brian Busher and his wife Tracey, Erin Paul and her husband Kevin, five Great Grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her seven brother and sisters. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, September 17, 2019 at 2:00 pm from the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, Inc., 100 Otsego Street, Ilion, NY. with Rev. Brian Engel officiating. Interment will take place in Mohawk Cemetery, Mohawk. Relatives and friends are invited to pay their respects at the funeral home on Tuesday, September 17, 2019 from 1-2 pm and to attend the funeral services that follow. It is the wish of the family that contributions be made either to Mohawk Reformed Church, 18 South Otsego Street, Mohawk, NY. 13407 or to American Cancer Society, 100 Lomond Court, Utica, NY. 13502. Envelopes are also available at the funeral home for this purpose. The family would also like to thank The Grand and its staff for their care and compassion shown to Mrs. Busher and her family the past two years. (October 5, 2019)
Mr. Arthur J. "Art" Durkin, Jr., IHS 1941 - We lost a good one today. Mr. Arthur J. "Art" Durkin, Jr., age 94, a longtime Ilion resident, passed away peacefully on Tuesday evening, May 16, 2017, at the Mohawk Valley Health Care Center. Born on October 29, 1922, in Granville, NY, Arthur was the son of the late Arthur J. Sr. and Margaret M. (Brown) Durkin. He moved to Ilion with his family in 1935 and finished out his education at Ilion High School, before joining the United States Army and proudly serving his country throughout WWII. After his honorable discharge from the service in 1946, Art came back home and worked for a spell at Remington Arms, before making the move out to Pasadena, California. Art led a long and interesting life, from serving under Patton to working for Howard Hughes. While living in Pasadena, Art would golf during the day, work second shift at Hughes' aircraft and hit up the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel for martinis until dawn. Some days he'd sneak in an audition as he tried to break into the movies. Eventually he returned home to family and his home on Fourth Street, where he'd live for the next sixty years. He worked for a time for Gross Brothers Trucking as an accountant and office manager, and then for Burt Warner in the clothing business up until 1987. His last tenure was with his brother's liquor store, Durkin's, where Art served as President and ran the day-to-day affairs. Art would eventually get his big break, although it was with the local theater group, he performed with for close to fifty years. When Art's nieces and nephews were young, he would pick them up and drive through the back roads of the valley looking for horses and cows with the kids. He was a man of many talents, who could have a pie in the oven, while up on a ladder, painting the house. He did both of these things well into his nineties. After voluntarily giving up driving, he turned to walking. His fifteen minute walk home from daily mass at the Church of the Annunciation, turned into a two hour stroll, as he would stop and chat with everyone he knew ... and he knew everyone! His family loved him dearly, as did his many friends, and he will be missed by those he leaves behind. Survivors include his brother and sister-in-law, Joseph and Joan Durkin of Ilion; his many nieces and nephews, with special mention of Bill Durkin of Greeneville, SC, Beth Durkin-White and her husband, David, of Glen Ellyn, IL, and Jean Lewis of Leondardsville, NY; his great-niece, Kathryn and great-nephew, Patrick; and special cousins, Ron and Rhea Brown of Hilton Head, SC. He was predeceased by his siblings, John and Grace Durkin, Jane and Alfred Smith, Harry Durkin, KIA WWII, and Margaret and Doug Gibson. In keeping with Art's wishes, there will be no formal funeral services. His family will lay him to rest alongside his parents in St. Agnes Cemetery, North Ilion, at their convenience. Art's final arrangements have been entrusted to Don Applegate and Martin L. Ciaccia, Funeral Directors of the Applegate-Day & Enea Family Funeral Home, 102 West Street, Ilion, NY (315) 895-7722. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.applegateandday.com. (June 6, 2017)
Glenn William Salsburg IHS 1941, 92, of Jacksonville, FL, formerly of New Hartford, NY, passed away at home on April 24, 2016. He was born in Ilion, NY, on September 20, 1923, the second son of Ethelyn (Heldman) and William C. Salsburg, and graduated from Ilion High School in 1941. During World War II, Glenn was a member of the 291st Engineer Combat Battalion, the most decorated Engineering Battalion in WWII. The battalion's exploits, including those at the Battle of the Bulge, have been featured on History Channel specials, and written about in four books. On December 20, 1947, he married Nyna Jeanne Warburton (Jeanne). They moved to Canton, NY, where he graduated from St. Lawrence University with a B.S. in 1949 and a Master's degree in education in 1956. They moved back to the Mohawk Valley in 1950 to Van Hornesville, then to Dolgeville in 1956, and New Hartford in 1965. Glenn's entire career was in education, first as a math and science teacher at Waddington and Owen D. Young central schools. He moved into guidance work with the Fulton County school system, and then served as a long time guidance director at Little Falls High School. In 1965, he became an evening counselor at Mohawk Valley Community College (MVCC), retiring in 1984 as the founding Dean Emeritus of MVCC's Rome campus. He and Jeanne were very active with New Hartford American Legion Post 1376, and he was elected as a member (and past president) of the New Hartford Board of Education. He was active as a committee member of the New Hartford Democratic Party and was the Democratic candidate for New Hartford Town Supervisor in 1979. In 1995, Glenn and Jeanne moved to Florida to be closer to their son, Kurt. Throughout his life he enjoyed many hobbies, including skiing, gardening, fishing (especially in Osceola, NY), reading, watching old movies on TV, following politics, solving crossword puzzles, playing (and winning) Bingo games in Cypress Village where he resided, gambling at Vernon Downs, and traveling, especially to the annual Army reunions with the soldiers of WWII and their families with whom he developed lifelong friendships. Most of all, Glenn loved his family and devoted his life to his children and his loving wife, Jeanne, who predeceased him on May 4, 2009. Glenn was predeceased in 1976 by his brother, Phil, of Ilion. He is survived and will sadly be missed by his daughter, Kevyn, and son-in-law, Dr. Steven C. Bass, of St. John, Virgin Islands; his son, Kurt, of Jacksonville, along with many friends and neighbors. Burial will be at 11:30 AM, Thursday, April 28, 2016, at the Jacksonville National Cemetery. If anyone wishes to make a memorial donation, Glenn requested them to the Alzheimer's Association or to the donor's favorite charity. (April 30, 2016)
Dorcas (Satterlee) Conkling IHS 1941, 92 of Ilion passed away on Wednesday April 13, 2016 at St. Elizabeth's Medical Center in Utica with her family by her side. Dorcas was born on February 9, 1924 in St. Johnsville, NY. She was the daughter of the late Chris and Marjorie (Cross) Satterlee. She was a graduate of Ilion Schools and Utica School of Commerce. On October 12, 1946 Dorcas married Alvin B. Conkling in St. Johnsville, he passed away November 6, 2000. Dorcas worked as a librarian's aid in Ilion Schools and was a member of the Order of The Eastern Star, Valley Chapter #82. She was also an avid New York Yankees and Syracuse University sports fan. Dorcas is survived by two daughters; Deborah and her husband Vincent Bonomo of Clinton and Cynthia Conkling of Ilion. Three grandchildren; Nick, Sara and Andrea and her boyfriend, Justin. She is predeceased by a sister and brother in law Helen and Richard Leek. Funeral services for Dorcas will be held on Monday April 18, 2016 at 11am the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home Inc. 100 Otsego St. in Ilion, Rev. Robert Wollaber will officiate. Interment will be in the Armory Hill Cemetery in Ilion. Friends may call on Monday from 10 to 11 am at the funeral home and are asked to please consider memorial donations to either Ilion Ambulance Fund or Morningstar Methodist Church, envelopes are available at the funeral home. Dorcas's family wish to thank Tammy Loiacono for the care she gave Dorcas and Howard from Meals on Wheels for brightening her days. They would also like to thank the Presbyterian Home staff and St. Elizabeth's nurses for the excellent care and compassion given to Dorcas. To send an online condolence please go to www.whiter-hendrix.com. (April 16, 2016)
Betty (Lester) Pozniak IHS 1941, 93, passed away Sunday, January 17, 2016 at the Iroquois Nursing Home, Jamesville, N.Y. Betty was born in Detroit, Mich. on March 24, 1922 the daughter of the late Eliot and Frances VanDelinder Lester. Mrs. Pozniak was a 1941 graduate of Ilion High School, at one time she was married to Gordon Waffle then in 1969 she marries Charles Pozniak, he passed away in 2002, she was employed as an account clerk with UNIVAC retiring from the Utica site. Betty was a fifty plus year member of the Ilion First Baptist Church, a past member of OES Chapter 82. She enjoyed many years camping and fishing on the St. Lawrence, also reading and cooking. Betty is survived by Leola and George Streeter, Donna Miller and companion David Clayton,grandchildren Aaron and Stephanie Miller,Keene Valley N.Y, Thomas Sreeter and companion Tanya Belorit, Jason and fiance Debbie Courtney all of Ilion, and Marc and Pamela of Richmomd Va. Great grandchildren EmmaLeigh,Madison of Katy Tx, Tristen, San Diedo Ca.,Gabrielle Streeter and Olivia Miller. Stepchildren Carol Jones, Estero Fla,and Robert Pozniak, Clifton Park also several nieces and nephews. She was pre deceased by a sister and brother in law Leola and Robert Reynolds and a brother and sister in law Thomas and Carolyn Lester. Funeral services for Betty will be Thursday, January 21, 2016, from the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, Inc., 100 Otsego St., Ilion at 1:00 PM with Pastor Mitchell Lindquist of the Ilion First Baptist Church officiating, interment will follow in the Armory Hill Cemetery, Ilion. Friends may call Thursday from 11:00AM until the time of the service. Betty's family would like to thank the staff at the Iroquois Nursing Home for all their kindness, compassion and care during her stay. To leave an online condolence and light a candle please go to www.whiter-hendrix.com. (Jan 31, 2016)
Doris E. (Mosseau) Lewis IHS 1941, age 93, formerly of State Route 5, E. Schuyler, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 28, 2015, at Folts Home, Herkimer, with her daughter and son-in-law, Marsha and Larry Madar, by her side. She was born on July 5, 1922, in Ilion, the daughter of Eugene and Hazel (Curry) Mosseau, and graduated from Ilion High School in 1941. Doris was a veteran of WW II, serving in the US Navy Waves. Doris enlisted in March, 1944, and was stationed at US Naval Supplementary Radio Station, Imperial Beach, San Diego, CA. She received a ribbon bar of the Navy Unit Commendation and awarded "The US Naval Communications Intelligence Organization" for her service. She was honorably discharged in November 1945. On October 20, 1945, she was married to Harry Lewis in San Diego, CA. He died on September 26, 2014. They made their home in Ilion for many years, then moved to E. Schuyler. Doris was the owner-operator of her own antique business called "Dor Dor's Antiques". Her business flourished for many years. She enjoyed doing flea markets and going to auctions. Mrs. Lewis was past President, Sec.-Treas. of the Mohawk Valley Antique Dealers Assoc. Doris bowled for many years and loved baseball and fishing. As a youth, she lived in Thendara and always loved the Adirondacks camping with her family at 8th Lake and her parent's camp in Eagle Bay. Surviving family members include her daughters, Marsha Madar and her husband, Larry, of Ilion, and Robin Benson and her husband, Paul, of Texas; two sons, Rodney E. Lewis and his wife, Donna, of CA, and Brett R. Lewis, of Lee Center; a special daughter-in-law, Jaymie Lewis, of Mohawk; eleven grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; a niece; four nephews; and two cousins. She was predeceased by her parents; her husband; her sister, Nancy Stefanec; and a special cousin, Art Mosseau. Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m., Saturday, January 2, 2016, at the Applegate-Day & Enea Family Funeral Home's newly reopened and renovated home at 102 West St., Ilion, with Rev. Janet Gleason officiating. Interment will be in Armory Hill Cemetery, Ilion, following the funeral home service. Visitation will be Saturday, January 2, 2016, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. just before the funeral home service. Anyone wishing to share a memory of Doris, 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 American Red Cross, 1415 Genesee Street, Utica, NY 13501. Envelopes are available at the funeral home. The Lewis family has entrusted service arrangements and supervision to their family Funeral Director, Don Applegate.(Jan 1, 2016)
Jay Earl Sickler, 91, of Military Road, Newport, died on February 11, 2014 at the Masonic Care Community, Utica, where he was a patient for the past week. Mr. Sickler was born on January 4, 1923 in Utica, a son of the late Jay E. and Mabel (Penner) Sickler. He graduated from Ilion High School and furthered his education at Utica College. On February 28, 1942, Jay was united in marriage with the former Marcia J. Weakley in Mohawk. He was employed as a Manufacturing Engineer at the former Univac, Utica, for 38 years. Marcia preceded him in death on April 15, 2005. A Mason for 61 years, Jay joined Mohawk Valley Lodge #276 F. & A.M. and later affiliated with Newport Lodge #455 F. & A.M. He was currently still active with the Lodge and was the recipient of the Dedicated Service Award in 1989, an honor he well deserved. Jay was of the Methodist faith and a member of the former Russia Grange. Survivors include one son, David Sickler of Ogdensburg; two grandsons, James (Ellen) Sickler of Amherst, NH and Jeffrey (Karen) Sickler of Milford, NH; two granddaughters, Laurel Sickler of Burlington, VT and Rachel Sickler of Barre, VT; seven great-grandchildren, Shannon, Ryan, Jacob, Kayla, James and Kassandra Sickler and Tucker Mitchell; and many nieces and nephews of the Weakley family. In addition to his wife, he was predeceased by a son, James; and his sister, Mary Sickler. Funeral services will be held at the Autenrith Funeral Home, Newport on Friday at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. Deborah Waldron, Pastor of the Newport United Methodist Church, officiating. Spring interment will take place in Newport Cemetery. Calling hours at the funeral home are Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m. Newport Masonic Lodge will conduct their ritualistic service on Thursday at 6:45 p.m. Memorials may be made to the Masonic Brotherhood Fund or Shriners Hospitals for Children. Envelopes are available at the funeral home. (February 21, 2014)
Condolences to Paul and family....
Carol Jane Baxter McLaughlin , 89, passed away on Aug. 28, 2013 in Nassau Bay, TX. She was born on Jan. 14, 1924 in Ilion, NY to George Baxter and Beatrice Law-Baxter. Carol is survived by her: loving husband of 68 yrs., Paul Thomas McLaughlin; daughters, Jean Morris and husband, Jesse, and Karen Clement; son, Dennis McLaughlin and wife, Rene; 9 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren and numerous family members and friends. Paul and Carol had a warm and wonderful life together and with their very close family.
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 Carol Baxter McLaughlin
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Carol graduated from Ilion, New York high school in 1941. Her family made the Houston/Clear Lake Area their home in 1962. Carol and her husband made Clear Creek Community Church their home church. Carol was a very talented painter. She was also an athlete, early in life as a cheerleader in high school and later on she enjoyed bowling, golf, and also loved to play bridge with her friends.
A Memorial Service will be held on September 6th, 2013 at 6:00 PM at Crowder Funeral Home, Webster, TX. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a memorial donation in Carol"s memory may do so to, Clear Creek Community Church for their Special Needs (R.E.A.C.H) Ministry, 999 Egret Bay Blvd. North, League City, Texas 77573. Condolences may also be sent to Mr. Paul McLaughlin, 400 Est Parkwood Apt. 242, Friendswood TX 77546. (Sept 4, 2013)
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William Gerald Venema, 91, of Hammondsport, died at 5:30pm on Sunday June 2, 2013 at the Taylor Health Care Facility. He was born on January 8, 1922, in Ilion, New York, to Siebolt and Wilma (Namminga) Venema. He married Florence Alice Cox on December 21, 1947 at the First Presbyterian Church, Baldwinsville, NY, and she survives. Bill was a graduate of Ilion (NY ) High School Class of 1942. He was a member of the Class of 1941 too. He attended Oswego State Teacher's College and graduated from Syracuse University in 1950. Bill was a veteran of World War II. He worked as a credit manager for Carrier Corporation, Cherry-Burrell Corporation and the Wilbur B. Driver Company; was a talented designer and woodworker who built and repaired homes and furniture; and served as the treasurer and a board member for a number of civic and church organizations. He was predeceased by his parents, and brother Benard Venema. He is survived by his wife Florence Venema, two daughters Faith Showers of Palmyra, PA., and Ruth Gundersen of Colchester, VT., two sons Scott (Kathryn) on Tiffin, OH., and Todd of Hammondsport, NY ., 5 grandchildren, Jacob Showers, Rachel Searfass, Ellen, Paul and Grant Venema. A Memorial Service will be held at 3:30pm on Saturday June 8, 2013 at the First Presbyterian Church of Bath. Burial will follow at a later date at Riverview Cemetery in Baldwinsville, NY . Memorials contributions may be made to the Building Restoration Fund at the First Presbyterian Church, or to a charity of the donor's choice. Arrangements are being handled by Bond-Davis Funeral Home of Bath. (July 3, 2013)
Beverly (Wood) Herlehy, 89, of 80 E. North St.in Ilion passed away on Monday January 14, 2013 at Faxton-St. Luke's Health Care in New Hartford. Bev was born on September 12, 1923 in Ilion the daughter of the late Leslie and Essie (Helmer) Wood, she was a graduate of Ilion Schools and St. Luke's School of Nursing as well as a 1979 graduate of Utica College. Bev worked as an RN at Little Falls Hospital for 27 years before retiring to Old Forge, after 20 years she returned to Ilion. On November 23, 1946 she married David K. Herlehy in the First Presbyterian Church in Ilion, David passed away in September of 2011. Bev was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Ilion and was a former Elder of the Church, she was Past Regent for the Asten-Rogan Chapter of DAR a former member of the American Organ Guild. Bev enjoyed gardening, reading and music, especially organ and piano. Bev is survived by her daughter Gail of Utica; a sister Virginia Reynolds of Ilion and her nieces and nephews Sharon and Tom Vorce, Linda and Jim Marco, Phylis and Bill Layman, Don and Terry Reynolds and Tim Herlehy. In keeping with Beverly's wishes there are no calling hours and funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family, interment will be in Oak Hill Cemetery in Herkimer. Friends and family are asked to consider memorial donations to the Utica Rescue Mission or the Ilion Ambulance Fund, in Bev's memory. Envelops are available at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home Inc. 100 Otsego St. in Ilion. On line condolences may be sent by going to www.whiter-hendrix.com. (Jan 26, 2013)
Betty (Bleau) Seymour, formerly of Ilion, NY died January 3, 2013 following a lengthy illness. She was born September 30, 1923 and graduated from Ilion High School and the Utica College of Comptometry. An accomplished student, civic leader and athlete, she earned varsity letters in tennis, bowling and cheerleading. She was awarded the Daughters of the American Revolution Good Citizenship Award. An excellent swimmer, she earned advanced certifications in life saving from the American Red Cross. Following WWII, she accompanied her husband to Hamilton College and to Syracuse University where they collaborated to earn him AB, MA and Doctoral degrees. They raised eight children in McLean, VA before retiring to Spring Valley, CA. She recently resided at the Sunrise Senior Living facility in Fairfax, VA. Survivors include sons Jon, Donald and James; daughters Kathleen, Betsy, Linda and Mary; thirteen grandchildren; and brother Carl of Mohawk, NY. Cremation will be followed by memorial services for family members and interment in Arlington National Cemetery. (Jan 11, 2013)
Mary C. (McKenna) Greenfield, age 87, of 188 Prospect Ave., Ilion, died on Monday, December 19, 2011, at St. Elizabeth Medical Center, Utica. She was born on February 17, 1924, in Ilion, the daughter of James and Julia (McCoy) McKenna, and was a 1941 graduate of Ilion High School. On October 9, 1954, she was married to Vincent S. "Vince" Greenfield at the Church of the Annunciation, Ilion. He passed away on October 23, 1999. Mrs. Greenfield was a member of the Church of the Annunciation. In her early years, she worked in the Dietary Dept. at Ilion High School. She later was employed in the Powder Metal Dept. at Remington Arms Co., Ilion, for six years. Mary was a devoted homemaker, mother and grandmother. At one time, she enjoyed reading and sewing. Her life was centered around her beloved family. Also, she was an avid N.E. Patriots fan and loved Tom Brady. Survivors include one son and daughter-in-law, Paul and Vivian Greenfield, of Ilion; one daughter and son-in-law, Patricia "Pat" and Gerald Leary, of ME; five cherished grandchildren, Megan, Sam and Paul Greenfield, of Ilion, and Lauren Twomey and McKayla Leary, of ME; two brothers and two sisters-in-law, John and Nira McKenna, of New Hartford, and Edward and Dorothy McKenna, of Mohawk; one sister, Joann Joy, of Ilion; one brother-in-law and two sisters-in-law, Richard Greenfield, of Herkimer, Eleanor Greenfield, of GA, and Marilyn Dolye, of New Hartford; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by her parents. Funeral services will be held 9:15 a.m., Thursday, December 22, 2011, at the Applegate-Day & Enea Family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Rd., Ilion, NY, and 10:00 a.m. at the Church of the Annunciation, Ilion, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Father Anthony Barratt, Pastor, assisted by Deacon James Bower. Interment will be in St. Agnes Cemetery, N. Ilion. Calling hours are Wednesday, December 21, 2011, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Applegate-Day & Enea Family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Rd., Ilion. In lieu of flowers, as an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be made to the Ilion Ambulance Fund. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. The Greenfield family has entrusted all funeral and burial arrangements to their family Funeral Director, Don Applegate. (Dec 23, 2011)

Photograph of Allen Russell courtesy of Connie Caswell, his niece.
Allen H. Russell, Attorney, 87, died suddenly June 17, 2011. He was a much loved brother and uncle. Allen was raised in Ilion, New York, and graduated from Ilion High School in 1941, President and Salutatorian of his class. He was a long-time Manhattan resident. He served in World War II and received the Purple Heart. He graduated from Princeton University in 1946 and Harvard Law School, Class of 1949. He clerked for Chief Justice Harold Stevens, U.S. Court of Appeals in Washington, D.C., until joining the law firm of Coudert Brothers in 1952, where he remained until retirement. He returned to Ilion in 1991 to attend his 50th high school reunion. He was a wonderful and honest man who lived life to the fullest and was loved by many. Allen leaves his sister, Virginia Caswell, of Fayetteville, NY; his nieces, Connie Caswell, of Boston, MA, and Kathy Monaco, of Manlius, NY; as well as his great-nephew, Scott Sears and his children, of Fairport, NY; and his great-niece, Kate Angelella and her husband, Ross, of Brooklyn, NY. (July 14, 2011)
Aldon T. Ingersoll, passed away the morning of March 8, 2011. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Constance, his sister Janice Ingersoll of Arlington, VA and five children: John Ingersoll of Ellington, Cheryl and her husband Len Quartararo of Cheshire, Peter and his wife Leah Ingersoll of South Windsor, and Scott and Michael Ingersoll, both of Newington. He was also the grandfather of four: Andrew 'AJ' Quartararo, Mallory Ingersoll, Daniel Quartararo and James Ingersoll. He was affectionately called 'Papa' by his grandchildren; a title bestowed upon him by his oldest grandson AJ. Al Ingersoll had proudly served on the aircraft carrier USS Hornet (CV-12 class) during World War II. He was a radioman/gunner in dive-bombers used in the South Pacific campaign. During his service in the Navy, he had been awarded the Air Medal, Asiatic Pacific 5 Stars Medal, Philippine Liberation Ribbon and the American Theatre & World War II Victory Ribbon. Al was an avid sports fan. He followed his beloved Boston Red Sox, New England Patriots and UConn sports teams. He was very loyal to local teams including those played on by his grandchildren. He truly enjoyed his second home on Cape Cod in addition to one of his favorite pastimes of "Going after the bluefish on Long Island Sound." Al was born on 10-8-23 in Ilion, NY; son of Allen M. and Betty (Bessie) R. Ingersoll. He graduated from Ilion High in 1941 and went back to school as a post grad to play football. He worked for Remington Arms and was there when Pearl Harbor was bombed. Al joined the Navy on June 7, 1942 and was sworn in on the Capital steps in Albany, NY as an 'avenger of Pearl Harbor.' Al graduated from Clarkson College in Potsdam, NY. He went on to work in management for Sears Roebuck in Schenectady, NY, Woonsocket, RI, Lynn, MA and Cambridge, MA. He met and married his wife, Constance, while in Woonsocket in 1952 and later lived in Marblehead, MA. He then joined GEM Int. in Saugus, MA and later managed the Hingham, MA store. In 1962, he was transferred to Newington to build and manage GEM of Hartford. After that, Al went to work for the State until his retirement in 1986. A memorial service to honor his life will be held at Church of the Holy Spirit, 183 Church St., Newington, at 10 AM, Saturday, March 19. Interment with full military honors will follow at State Veterans' Cemetery, Middletown. The family would like to thank the staff on 7-2 at St. Francis Hospital and Medical Center, especially Paulette, and those who truly cared for Dad and brightened his days with their kindness and spirit. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Hydrocephalus Association http://www.hydroassoc.org/how-to-donate-to-the-hydrocephalus-association/ or Disabled American Veterans http://www.dav.org/donate/MemorialHonoraryGifts.aspx. To share a memory with his family, please visit us at www.newingtonmemorial.com. (March 21, 2011)
Viola 'Vicki' (Gregg) Gilbert IHS 1941, age 88, formerly of Ilion, St. Petersburg, FL, and Herkimer, passed away on Thursday, February 3, 2011, at the Harding Nursing Home in Waterville. She was born on July 6, 1922, in Galilee, PA, the daughter of Arno and Ethel (Eldred) Gregg, and graduated from Ilion High School in 1941. Viola was married to Edward E. Gilbert on October 5, 1941, at the Ilion United Methodist Church. He died on December 17, 1969. In her early years, she was a secretary at Sperry Rand Univac. Later, Viola was the Administrative Assistant for the Vice President of Marketing at MDS, Herkimer. She also worked ten years at General Electric Co., St. Petersburg, FL. At one time, she was a member of the Herkimer Reformed Church. Viola formed RID (Remove Intoxicated Drivers) Chapter, of Tampa Bay, and was past President of MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Drivers), of Pinellas County. She was also active in Scouts and a member of American Legion Auxiliary and National Secretary Assoc. Survivors include herchildren, Edward A. Gilbert and his wife, Ora Anne, of Wellesley Island, NY, James E. Gilbert and his wife, Barbara, of Herkimer, Sharon E. Fournier and her husband, Ted, of Ilion, and Donald G. Gilbert and his wife, Katherine, of Brooksville, FL; twelve grandchildren, Eddie, Gary, Lori, James, Matthew, Daniel, Erica, Ted, Trenton, Dawn, Traci and Tammy; twenty-four great-grandchildren, Michael, Melissa, Steven, Christine, Brandon, Ashley, Benjamin, Thomas, Shauna, Fred, Brittany, Trey, Drew, Zoe, Skyler, Dakota, Ashton, Travis, Hannah, Austin, Joselyn, Kaelin, Kyle and Adam; three great-great-grandchildren, Trenton, Nevaeh and Kayden; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by two grandchildren, Steven and Craig Gilbert; her great-grandson, Kevin Gilbert; her sister, Alice Crossway; and her brother, Chester Gregg. Funeral Services will be held 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, February 8, 2011, at the Applegate-Day & Enea Family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Rd., Ilion, with the Rev. Robert Wollaber officiating. Spring interment will be held at Oak Hill Cemetery, Herkimer. Calling hours are Monday (today), February 7, 2011, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Anyone wishing to share a memory of Viola, or add to her online memorial, may go to www.applegateandday.com on the Internet. In lieu of flowers, as an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be made to RID - Tampa Bay, P.O. Box 2408, Largo, FL 33779. Envelopes are available at the Applegate-Day & Enea Family Funeral Home, Ilion. The Gilbert family has requested that all funeral and burial arrangements be entrusted to their family funeral director, Don Applegate. (Feb 9, 2011 modified March 20, 2016)
Robert J. 'Bob' Reynolds, age 86, of 90 N. Third Ave., Ilion, died Monday, Dec. 27, 2010, at home, with his children by his side. He was born on March 25, 1924, in Ilion, the son of Charles and Edna (Hempstead) Reynolds, and was a graduate of Ilion High School. Bob was a veteran of World War II, serving in the U.S. Navy, and received the Purple Heart for being wounded at the landing of Omaha Beach on D-Day. On May 25, 1946, he married Leola Lester in Ilion. She died on Aug. 15, 2005. Mr. Reynolds was co-owner and operator of Reynolds and Lester Gas Station in Ilion and later owned and operated Reynolds Diagnostic Center, Ilion. He was also employed by the village of Ilion HUD program. Bob formerly served as village of Ilion trustee, was past president of the Ilion Water Board and served as a volunteer in the Ilion Fire Department for over fifty years. He was past Ilion fire commissioner and life member of the Ilion Elks Lodge. Bob was also a member of the Military Order of the Purple Heart Service Foundation in Washington, D.C. Bob enjoyed bowling in local leagues and spending summers at Half Moon Beach. He also enjoyed playing in the annual family Razzle-Dazzle Thanksgiving Day football game. Survivors include his children, Lynn Reynolds and wife, Bonnie, of North Fort Myers, Fla., Betty Brewer and husband, Terrance, of East Greenbush, Nan Grindle, of Herkimer, and James Reynolds and wife, Laura, of Ilion; six grandchildren, Nicole and Alex Reynolds, Jessica (Reynolds) Jang, Hilary and Geoffrey Brewer, and Andrew Reynolds; one sister, Thelma Hart and husband, Ned, of Mohawk; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He was predeceased by two brothers, Fred and George Reynolds, and three sisters, Adelaid Bunce, Arlene Fike and Ollie Stephens. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 1, 2011, at Applegate-Day & Enea Family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Rd., Ilion, with Father Anthony M. Barratt, Pastor of the Church of the Annunciation, officiating. Spring interment will be in Mount View Memorial Gardens, town of Little Falls. Calling hours are Saturday, Jan. 1, 2011, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., prior to the funeral home service. Members of Ilion Elks Lodge No. 1444 will conduct ritualistic services at 1:15 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 1, 2011, at the funeral home. Anyone wishing to share a memory of Bob, or add to his online memorial, may go to www.applegateandday.com on the Internet. In lieu of flowers, as an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be made to the Ilion Ambulance Fund or Hospice. Envelopes are available at Applegate-Day & Enea Family Funeral Home, Ilion. The Reynolds family requested that all funeral services be arranged and supervised by Bob"s long time friend, Don Applegate, funeral director. (Jan 1, 2011)
John Francis McGuiness, age 87, of Sandalwood Drive, died Sunday, October 18, 2009 at his residence. Born in Ilion, NY on October 16, 1922, he was the son of the late Eugene and Daisy Supple McGuiness. He was a US Army veteran, and was retired from the US Postal Service. Mr. McGuiness was also a member of St. Brendans Catholic Church and was preceded in death by a son, Donald M. McGuiness. Survivors include his wife, Charlotte McGuiness of the home; three sons, Richard "Rick" McGuiness of Murrells Inlet, SC, Brian McGuiness of Myrtle Beach, Paul K. McGuiness and wife Diane of Daytona Beach, FL; seven grandchildren and four great grandchildren. A celebration of life will be held at Brunswick Funeral Service from 12:00 until 1:00 PM, Thursday, October 22, 2009. A mass will be celebrated at a later date. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.brunswickfuneralservice.com. Brunswick Funeral Service & Crematory, Shallotte, NC. Brunswick Funeral Service & Crematory, Shallotte, NC. (Nov 24, 2009)
Merriell (Thayer) Fake, age 85, of Fort Myers, Florida, passed away on Sunday June 28, 2009 in Florida. Merriell was born on November 8, 1923 in Ilion, the daughter of the late Claude and Mariam (House) Thayer. She attended Ilion schools graduating from Ilion High School in 1941 where she was crowned Prom Queen. She was a graduate of the University of Rochester-School of Nursing. Merriell was married to Charles Fake who passed away in 1990. She lived in Newtonville, New York and worked as the Town Nurse for the Town of Colonie until her retirement in 1985. Merriell is survived by two sons and daughters in law; Michael and Sharon Fake of NH, Thomas and Shirley Fake of Hawaii, a daughter and son in law Judy and Bill Cummings of TX. She is also survived by 5 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. Graveside services for Merriell will be held on Thursday July2, 2009 at 2:30 pm in the Armory Hill Cemetery in Ilion. Rev. Robert Wollaber will officiate. Online condolences can be left at www.whiter-hendrix.com. Arrangements are with the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home Inc. 100 Otsego St. Ilion. Donations in her memory may made to Hope Hospice at Shell Point, c/o The Legacy Foundation at Shell Point, 15010 Shell Point Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33908. (July 11, 2009)
Verna M. (Nichols) Arnold,Verna M. Arnold, 86, of Hancock, died on Friday, April 10, 2009, at Countryside Care Center in Delhi. She was born on Feb. 9, 1923, in New Hartford, the daughter of Wallace and Ethel (Storms) Nichols. Verna married Clifford Arnold on Nov. 24, 1952, in Hancock. She was a member of the Emory United Methodist Church in Hancock and was a secretary for 20 years and retired from Mallery Lumber Corp., also in Hancock. Surviving are her husband, Clifford, Delhi; two sons, James VanLoan, Albuquerque, N.M., and Thomas Arnold, Binghamton, N.Y.; three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. She is also survived by one sister, Joyce Backman, and two brothers, Leland and Lyn of Mohawk and Ronald and Patsy of Florida; and sisters-in-law, Dusty and Ellen Nichols. She was predeceased by a sister, Shirley Keeler and brother, Irwin Nichols; and parents, Wallace and Mae Nichols and Ethel Storms Nichols and John Wisheart. Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, April 15, from noon to 2 p.m. and a service will f ollow at 2 p.m. at the Henderson-Biedekapp Funeral Chapel, Hancock. The Rev. Andrew Weidner of the Emory United Methodist Church, Hancock, will officiate and interment will immediately follow in the Riverview Cemetery, Hancock. Donations can be made in Verna's memory to the Emory United Methodist Church, Hancock. Arrangements are by Henderson-Biedekapp Funeral Chapel, Hancock. (May 5, 2009)
Joseph E. Plunkett, age 87, of 75 Fourth St., Ilion, passed away on Monday, Feb. 16, 2009, at Faxton-St. Luke"s Healthcare, New Hartford. Ed was born in Ilion on Oct. 20, 1921, the son of Frederick and Mary Plunkett. He attended Ilion schools and graduated from Ilion High School. He was married to Florence Cashman Tutty at the Annunciation Church, Ilion on April 28, 1962. Florence passed away on Nov. 3, 2008. Ed enjoyed his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and loved his vacation at Cape Cod each year surrounded by his family. He also enjoyed watching the Red Sox, Celtics, Notre Dame football and Syracuse basketball. He was an avid golfer. He was especially proud of his service to his country as a veteran of World War II in the 8th Forward Artillery Observation Battalion. He worked for UNIVAC and Remington Arms and was a member of the Elks, VFW, and American Legion. Ed is survived by his daughter Susan of Hingham, Mass.; his sons Steve of Ilion and Gary Tutty and his wife, Pamela of Ilion: his grandchildren, Sean Tutty and his wife Sonya of Ilion, Christopher Tutty and his wife Mary of Orange, Calif.; Maura Tutty of Quincy, Mass., Rileigh Plunkett of Ilion; and his great grandchildren, Keeley, Devin, Connor and Nolan Tutty; sisters-in-law, Irene Polley of Ilion, Catherine and George Snider of Frankfort, Elizabeth and Robert Luke of Ilion, and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother Fred Plunkett and his wife Minerva, and his sister Mary Garren and her husband Gary, and his aunt Agnes McShalley; as well as his in-law"s Raymond and Beverly Cashman, John and Emily Cashman, Dominick Accattato and Earl Polley. Funeral services will be held 9:15 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 19, 2009, at the Applegate-Day & Enea Family Funeral Home, 102 West St., Ilion, and 10 a.m. at the Annunciation Church, Ilion, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Father Anthony Barratt, pastor. Internment will be in the spring in Calvary Cemetery, Herkimer. Calling hours are Wednesday, 4-6 p.m. at the funeral home. Joe"s family would like to thank the VA staff in Rome and Dr. Richter, the ICU staff at St. Luke"s, Father Anthony Barratt, Father Mark Cunningham, and Sister Maureen for their care, concern and compassion. In lieu of flowers, please consider giving to your favorite charity in Ed"s name. A large selection of envelopes are available at the Applegate-Day & Enea Family Funeral Home, Ilion. (Feb 22, 2009)
Robert (Bob) Smith died on October 9, 2007 and Harriett Ineich Smith died on July 22, 2008. They lived in Reno, NV. There were no obituaries. (Aug 13, 2008)
Gladys (Smith) Susman, 85, of Holland Patent, died Friday, May 23, 2008 at her home in Lauderhill, FL. She was born April 29, 1923 the daughter of Esther and Fred Smith. She married Richard Susman on August 5, 1961. Gladys was predeceased by her one daughter, Susan Edick in 1998. Surviving besides her husband, are two sons, David Walrath of TX, Martin Susman and his wife, Shelly of NY, three daughters, Terry Minozzi and her husband, Nicholas of FL, Jackie Jones of New York, Carolyn Allen and husband, Donald of NY, several grandchildren and great grandchildren. A graveside service will be held at a time to be announced. (June 6, 2008)
Robert Lynn Coyle 84, of 80 East North Street, Ilion, passed away Saturday, April 7, 2007, at the Lakeside Nursing Home in Ithaca. He was born on September 2, 1922 in Oriskany Falls, New York, the son of the late Harold and Alma Burnett Coyle. He attended Annunciation School in Ilion and was a graduate of Ilion High School. Mr. Coyle was a veteran of WWII, serving with the US Army, and was employed as a salesman with various companies, retiring in the late 1990's. Bob was an avid golfer and enjoyed playing at Doty's Golf Course in Ilion. Bob is survived by a daughter and son-in-law, Cynthia and Rene' Cabrera of Ithaca, NY; and a son and daughter-in-law, Michael and Hazel Coyle of Oneonta, NY; five grandchildren, Scott, Shawn and Eileen Coyle, Shana and Elena Cabrara. He was predeceased by a son, Lance, in 1963. A Memorial Service for Bob will be held on Friday, April 13, 2007, at 2:00 p.m. at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, Inc., 100 Otsego Street, Ilion, with Deacon James Bower officiating. Interment will be in the Armory Hill Cemetery, Ilion. Friends are asked to consider memorials to the Alzheimer's Association, Mohawk Valley, Chapter 4947, Commercial Drive, Yorkville, NY 13495; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to: Whiter-Hendrix.com. (April 13, 2007)
Richard H. Brown 84, of Country Manor, Herkimer, and formerly of 73 Hoefler Ave., Ilion, passed away Saturday, April 7, 2007, in the Little Falls Hospital. He was born June 14, 1922, in Ilion, the son of the late William and Iva Hess Brown and graduated from Ilion High School with the class of 1941. Dick served in the South Pacific with the Navy during World War II and on November 16, 1946, he was united in marriage with Eleanor Austin. She passed away June 25, 2002. Dick was an active member of the First United Methodist Church in Ilion and a member of the Ilion Odd Fellows, where he held many offices including that of Noble Grand. He was also a very active member of the Olive Branch 40 of the Masonic Lodge, where he held various offices, and was a member of Evening Star Valley Chapter 82, where he had served as Sentinel. Dick was a scout leader with Troop 8 Boy Scouts in Ilion and was an avid bowler. He enjoyed spending time at his camp in Pine Lake in the summer. Dick is survived by four sons and daughters-in-law, Kenneth and Diane Brown of Herkimer, Rodney and Diane Brown of Ilion, Timothy and Bertha Brown of Little Falls and Gregg and Charlene Brown of Albany; 12 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by a brother, Leon. Funeral services for Dick will be held on Tuesday, April 10, at 7 p.m. from the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home Inc., 100 Otsego St., Ilion, with, the Rev. Robert Wollaber officiating. Interment will be at Mount View Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Little Falls. Friends may call on Tuesday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home. The Olive Branch 40 of the Masonic Lodge will conduct services at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday. Friends are asked to consider memorials to the First United Methodist Church in Dick's memory. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to Dick's family at www.whiter-hendrix.com on the Internet. (April 13, 2007)
Doris (Hartleb) Hartmann, 82, formerly of 50 Wilson St., Ilion, and for the past four years of Easy Living in Ilion, passed away Friday, Jan. 26, 2007, at the Mohawk Valley Nursing Home in Ilion. She was born March 31, 1924, in Ilion, the daughter of the late Ferdinand and Mary (Schuck) Hartleb, and was educated in the Ilion schools. She was a 1944 graduate of Nathan Latoure Hospital. On Aug. 3, 1946, she married Frederick Hartmann in Ilion. Mr. Hartmann passed away Nov. 23, 1997. Doris was employed as a registered nurse night supervisor with Mohawk Valley General Hospital in Ilion, retiring in 1981. Mrs. Hartmann was a member of St. Augustine's Episcopal Church in Ilion. Surviving Doris are two sons and daughters-in-law, Fred and Rose Marie Hartmann of Ilion and Kurt and Maureen Hartmann of Baldwinsville; a daughter and son-in-law, Mary and Joe Baggetta of Albany; her grandchildren, Rob, Dan and his wife Sarah, Jim and his fianc"e Bree Zerrahn, Brian, Margie and Colleen Hartmann, Jennifer Clark and Christina and Joe Baggetta; three great-grandchildren, Olivia Hartmann, Sascha Clapper and Seth Colangelo; a nephew and his wife, Henry and Deanna Crofoot; and her dear friend Marge Dolch. She was predeceased by two sisters, Pauline Hartleb and Louise Crofoot. Funeral services for Mrs. Hartmann will be held on Monday, Jan. 29, at 11 a.m. from the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St., Ilion, with the Rev. Thomas Trees officiating. Interment will be held in the Armory Hill Cemetery, Ilion. Friends may call Sunday, Jan. 28, from 3-7 p.m. at the funeral home. The family would like to thank Sue and Carmen Denicola and the fourth floor at the Mohawk Valley Nursing Home for all their kindness and care. (Jan 29, 2007)
Harold Edward "Mac" MacNeill, 83, of Barberton passed away Wednesday, January 10, 2007. He was born October 27, 1923 in Ilion, New York, the second of four sons born to William and Mary Reardon MacNeill. "Mac" was a 1941 graduate of Ilion High School. During World War II he served in the U.S. Navy in the Battle of the Atlantic. His career as a Manufacturing Engineer for G.E. and Babcock and Wilcox brought him to Barberton. "Mac" loved to travel and has many friends across the globe. "Mac" was once the Past Exalted Ruler of the Elks in Ilion, NY. He is loved and dearly missed by many people. Preceded in death by parents ; brothers, Robert, William and Thomas. Surviving are, stepdaughter, Beverly Carlisle of Louisiana; brother Robert's children, Barbara Murphy of New York, Robert J. MacNeill Sr. of Florida, Deborah MacNeill O'Crowley of Minnesota. He will be loving missed by his family of care givers, especially Lisha Cutlip who assisted him for five years as well as Val, Elizabeth, Jason and others. Following "Mac's" request, there will be no services, cremation has taken place. (Jan 29, 2007)
Ruth Kent Murray IHS '41 passed away on December 24, 2006, at home. She had been weakened by osteoporosis during the past year. Ruth was born in Utica, New York, on December 29, 1923. She graduated from Syracuse University with a degree in music teaching. This was the start of her activities as a piano teacher for 35 years. She was much beloved by her students and their families. Music filled her life and spirit. Ruth's cheerfulness and enthusiasm brought inspiration, energy and happiness to many. She and her husband, Bill, lived for many years in Encino, California, with their two children, Douglas and Robert. Ruth and Bill retired to Escondido 20 years ago, where they played tennis and enjoyed concerts and walks. They also traveled the world. They were married for over 60 years. Ruth also had a lifelong interest in English literature. Their son, Dr. Robert Murray and his wife, Cathy, live in Seattle with their two children, Alex and Graeme. Her husband, Bill, lives in Escondido. Their son, Douglas, lives in Escondido. Ruth will be in our hearts forever. (April 13, 2007)
Donald R. Ferguson, 83, of Military Road died on July 24, 2006, at the Faxton-St. Luke's Healthcare, New Hartford. Mr. Ferguson was born in Ilion on July 3, 1923, a son of the late Raymond Sumner and Alice (Innes) Ferguson. He graduated from Ilion High School, and in 1944 joined the U.S. Army Air Corps, where he served as a Flight Officer until his honorable discharge in 1946. On May 4, 1945, he was united in marriage with the former Gladys Butler in Ilion. Donald was employed as a machine operator/assembler at the former Chicago Pneumatic, where he worked for 38 years before retiring in 1986. In 1988 he moved to the town of Norway. Donald was of the Methodist faith, and a former member of the Citizens Band Radio Club and Valley Boating Club, both of the Mohawk Valley area. In addition to his wife, Donald is survived by four sons, Jerry Ferguson of New Mexico, Kevin Ferguson of North Dakota, Shane Ferguson of Washington, and Chad Ferguson and his wife, Joanna of North Carolina; two daughters, Diana Gilbert and her husband, Ronald of California, and Laurie Crawley and her husband Duane, of North Carolina; one sister, Shirley Gentner of Long Island; several grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins; and his caregiver of 23 years, Carol Tucker. He was predeceased by a daughter, Elaine, in 1999. Friends are invited to join the family at a graveside service to be held at the Norway Rural Cemetery on Friday at 11 a.m. with the Rev. Joan Holdsworth, Pastor, Newport United Methodist Church officiating. Military honors will be accorded by the United States Army. Calling hours at the Autenrith Funeral Home, Newport, are Thursday from 7 to 9 p.m. (September 7, 2006)
Mildred A. (LeFever) Rogers, 83, widow of Ira D. Rogers, passed away on May 4, 2006. A native of Ilion, Mildred was born on May 8, 1922. She was active in the Ilion Garden Club, Ilion Historic Society, and the First Baptist Church. Millie was a fifty year member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Valley Chapter number eighty two. She is survived by her brother, James LeFever of Florida; her two daughters, Barbara R. Shelley and Sandra R. Cowen, both of South Carolina; five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Funeral services for Millie will be held on Monday, May 8, 2006, at 10:00 a.m. from the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego Street, Ilion, with Rev. Paul Smith officiating. Interment will follow at the Armory Hill Cemetery, Ilion. Friends may call on Sunday, May 7, 2006, from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. (May 18, 2006)
Norman Lawrence Hess, 82, 4 Parkside Drive, Lake Placid, N.Y., passed away on Thursday, Jan. 5, 2006, after a short illness. He was born on Sept. 17, 1923, in Ilion, N.Y. Norm was the first son of Myron D. and Marion E. Hess. Norm graduated from Ilion High School in 1941, Colgate University in 1949 and Cornell University Law School in 1951. He married Edith "Jayne" Myers on Dec. 31, 1944, in West Winfield, N.Y. A veteran of World War II, he served in the U.S. Navy Air Corps as a Combat Aircrewman aboard the U.S.S. Lexington in the Pacific Theatre. He was admitted to the New York State Bar Association in 1951. He practiced law with Schneider and Getman in Ilion, N.Y., from 1951 to 1954. In 1954, Norm moved to Lake Placid to become a partner in the law firm Isham and Hess. He has practiced law in Lake Placid since that time until the present. Shortly after moving to Lake Placid in 1954, Norm became involved in a number of civic and sports related organizations. He and wife Jayne became active in the Lake Placid Ski Club. Norm donated hundreds of hours as an alpine gate checker, cross country timer, ski jumping calculator, biathlon official and bob run volunteer. He served as president of the Lake Placid Ski Club during the 50's and was an active member of the Lake Placid Youth Commission. Other organizations to which he belonged, the Lake Placid Chamber of Commerce, Lake Placid Volunteer Fire Department, Lions Club, Kiwanis Club, North Elba Historical Society and he became a member of the Adirondack Community Church. Norm served as Chief of Calculations for Lake Placid Ski Jumping competitions from 1960 to 1982. He served as Lake Placid Village Attorney from 1954 to 1976, Attorney and General Council for the Lake Placid 1980 Olympic Organizing Committee 1974 to 1979 and zoning Attorney for the Town of North Elba and the Village of Lake Placid planning boards board of appeals 1960 to 1975. He served as a New York State Estate Tax Attorney 1966 to 1975. He was a founding member of the Lake Placid Sports Council and served as Chairman from 1964 to 1967. During his term as Chairman of the Sports Council he moved to bring the FISU games to Lake Placid and became the Executive Director of the 1971 Winter World University Games and worked in the Kennedy Games 1969 to 1971. He became a member of the 1969 Olympic Bid Committee in 1962 and was active in every bid committee leading to the 1980 Olympics. He served as Chairman of the 1972 Bid Committee, Council and Chairman of the 1976 Bid Committee, Council for the 1980 Olympic Organizing Committee. During the 1980 Olympics he served as Assistant Chief of Ski Jumping Calculations and Special Transportation Consultant for athletes and officials. Norm also served as a member of the Advisory Committee to New York State Olympic Development Authority 1981 to 1982. Norm was elected to the Lake Placid Hall of Fame in 1989. He has served on the Hall of Fame nominating committee since that time. He was predeceased by his wife, Jayne M. Hess who died June 20, 1979; and a brother, Austin Hess who died Sept. 2, 1997. Norm is survived by his four children, son, Marc Hess and his wife Robin Adair Logan of Stockhohn, Sweden and Tivoli, N.Y., son, Eric Hess and his wife Georgia of Galax, Va.; daughter, Heidi Griffeth and her husband Robert M. Griffeth Jr. of Bluffton, S.C.; daughter, Lori Evangel and her husband Chris of Morris Township, N.J., and Lake Placid N.Y.; a brother, Milton Hess and his wife Ginny of Long Island, N.Y., and N. Fort Myers Fla.; a sister, Marilyn Hilliard and her husband John of Liverpool, N.Y., and N. Fort Myers, Fla.; a sister-in-law, Peggy Hess of Mohawk, N.Y.; four grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Also survived by his very special friend of many years, Elizabeth "Bette" Snow of LakePlacid. Per Norm's request there were no visitation or calling hours. A memorial service will be held at the Adirondack Community Church during May 2006. The time and date will be announced later. Friends wishing to remember Norm are asked to consider donations to the Lake Placid Volunteer Fire Department or the North Elba Historical Society in his memory. The ClarkFuneral Home in Lake Placid is in charge of arrangements. (April 5, 2006)
John J. Mullen , 81, passed away peacefully on Wednesday May 11, 2005 at Wuesthoff Hospital in Rockledge. He was born in Ilion, N.Y. on March 9, 1924 and came to Port St. John in 1963. He was a US Army Staff Sergeant of WWII and a retired machinist from McDonnell Douglas in 1981. John is survived by his wife of 54 years, Miriam; son and daughter-in-law Brian and Shelly Mullen; grandson Jacob; sister Margaret (O.R.) Griffith. He was pre-deceased by his sister Jane Rebasz. Funeral service will be held at the 1st United Methodist Church in Port St. John at 10:00 am on Tuesday May 17, 2005. Interment will follow at Brevard Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of John J. Mullen to the Brevard Alzheimer's Foundation, 4676 N. Wickham Road, Melbourne, FL. 32935. Arrangements by Funeral Solutions in Cocoa FL. 321- 638-1373. (August 8, 2005)
Charles W. G. "Andy" Anderson '41, 81, of Fulton, Missouri passed away Wednesday, March 30, 2005 at his home. He was born March 1, 1924 in Ilion, New York the son of the late William Geeves Anderson and Annie Crossland Anderson. On May 22, 1943 he was united in marriage to Iris Ducote who preceded him in death on April 16, 2004. He will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by one son Charles Anderson II and his wife Rachelle of Fulton, Mo.; two daughters, Carole Lany Jones and her husband Troy of Jefferson City, Mo., and Ashley Anderson of Fulton, Mo.; five grandchildren, Trent, Sean, Holly, Dylan, and Austin; other relatives and many dear friends. Mr. Anderson worked at the Fulton State Hospital and then retired form the Missouri Department of Corrections as a psychologist. He was a veteran of the US Army. He was a member of St. Alban"s Episcopal Church, the Masonic Lodge, and was involved in Boy Scouts for many years. He enjoyed traveling, reading, writing poetry, camping, fishing, and spending time with his grandchildren. Memorial services will be held 11a.m. Saturday, April 2, 2005 at St. Albans Episcopal Church in Fulton, Mo. Visitation will be from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, April 1, 2005 at Maupin Funeral Home and from 10 a.m. until service time on Saturday, April 2, 2005 at St. Albans Episcopal Church. (April 25, 2005)
Bettie J. (LeFever) Tibbitts, age 82, of 1884 State Route 169, Little Falls, passed away Friday, March 4, 2005, at Little Falls Hospital where she had been a patient since March 1, 2005. She was born on May 30, 1922, in Ilion, the daughter of the late Roland and Jennie (Bowen) LeFever. She was a gradate of Ilion High School, class of 1941, as well as a graduate of Herkimer Nursing School, class of 1965. She was united in marriage to her husband of 60 years, Morton B. Tibbitts Jr., on May 19, 1945, at the home of the bride's sister in Ilion. She was a member of the First Baptist Church, Little Falls, and was an avid golfer. Mrs. Tibbitts was employed at onetime as a bookkeeper for the Herkimer County Trust Company, Little Falls. She was later employed in the Maternity Department of Little Falls Hospital from 1965 until her retirement in 1975. She is survived by her husband, Morton; a son, Roger C. Tibbitts of Little Falls; a daughter-in-law, Sharon Tibbitts of Little Falls; a grandson, Garth L. Tibbitts of Little Falls; a brother, Russell LeFever and his wife, Mary, of Westfield; a sister, Anne Lane of Baldwinsville; and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by a son, Gary A. Tibbitts, who died on July 29, 2003; a sister, Margie Warburton; and by a daughter-in-law, Holly E. Tibbitts, who died on December 19, 2004. Funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family from the Chapman-Moser Funeral Home, Inc., 42 N. Ann St., Little Falls, with the Rev. Donald L. Dixon, pastor of the First Baptist Church, Little Falls, officiating. Interment will take place in Rural Park Cemetery in the spring. There are no public calling hours. It is the wish of the family that contributions in memory of Mrs. Tibbitts be considered to the First Baptist Church, 555 Albany St., Little Falls, NY 13365. Envelopes are available at the funeral home for this purpose. (March 8, 2005)
Frances G.(Getman) Hitchcock, IHS '41, age 80, died Tuesday, July 6, 2004, at the C.M. Tucker Jr. Nursing Care Center, after an extended illness with Alzheimer's disease. Mrs. Hitchcock was born in Ilion, N.Y., Dec. 30, 1923, a daughter of the late Clarence F. Getman and Bessie C.Getman. She was the widow of the late Harold Clark Hitchcock. Mrs. Hitchcock lived in Ilion for most of her younger years, moving to Orangeburg, S.C., in 1962, where she lived for many years prior to her illness. Surviving are her son, Gary F. Hitchcock and his wife Linda of Cordova, S.C.; daughters, Gail H. Risinger and her husband Monroe of Leesville, S.C., and Pam H. Eargle and her husband Edwin of Columbia; grandchildren, Jennifer T. Culler of Hanahan, S.C., Amy T. Union of Orangeburg, S.C., Jill A. Thompson of Orangeburg, S.C., Edwin S. "Sid" Eargle III of Columbia, Claribel "Clare" Eargle of Spartanburg, S.C., and Melanie H. Kittrell of Papua, New Guinea; seven great-grandchildren, sister-in-law, Betty H. Speece and her husband Hiram of Speculator; six nephews and a special niece, Ellen P. Rowland of Ilion. She was predeceased by a sister, Clara G. Perry and brothers, Tracy F. Getman and William Jacob Getman. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday at Trinity Lutheran Church with visitation following the service. A graveside service will be held at a later date at the Armory Hill Cemetery, Ilion. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association Palmetto Chapter, P.O. Box 7044, Columbia, S.C. 29202-7044, or C.M. Tucker Jr. Nursing Care Center, 2200 Harden St., Columbia, S.C. 29203. The family expresses much love and thanks for the staff at C. M. Tucker Jr. Nursing Care Center for their many years of loving service. (July 11, 2004)
Shirley Marie Padgham Fischer IHS '41, age 79, of Denicola's Easy Living, formerly of 38 Richfield St., Ilion, passed away Monday, Oct. 20, 2003, at home. Shirley was born Oct. 21, 1923, in Ilion, the daughter of the late Frank and Mae (Bellow) Padgham. She was educated in Annunciation School and was a 1941 graduate of Ilion High School and on March 29, 1946, she was united in marriage to William Fischer in Ilion. He passed away in 1994. Shirley was employed as a bookkeeper with Nehr Chevrolet, Perkins Buick and Marriott Chevrolet. Shirley was a member of the Mohawk Valley Hospital Guild and was of the Catholic faith. Shirley is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, William and Deanna of Ilion; her daughter and son-in-law, Janice and Gilbert Smith of Ilion; seven grandchildren, Kristen, Kathryn and Kelly Fischer and Kerri, Tracy, Christy and Gale Smith; two sisters-in-law, Dawn Padgham of Florida and Betty Powers of California, as well as several friends at Easy Living and nieces and nephews. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, Oct. 23, at 9:30 a.m. at Our Lady Queen of Apostles Church in Frankfort. Interment will follow in the Armory Hill Cemetery in Ilion. Friends may call today from 4-7 p.m. at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St., Ilion. Shirley's family would like to thank Carmen and Sue Denicola at Easy Living for all the love and care given her during her six-year stay and also Dr. William Parker and staff for the care given.. (October 31, 2003)
Betty J. Hall, '41, age 79, of 1801 State Rt. 51, passed away Friday, August 22, 2003 at Bassett Healthcare, Cooperstown. Betty was born February 2, 1924 in Ilion daughter of Charles H. and Jean S (Reese) Paddock Sr. She was a graduate of Ilion High School. On July 3, 1943, she was united in marriage to Donald W. Hall in Frankfort. Betty was last employed as Communications Coordinator at the Mohawk Valley General Hospital retiring in 1983. Survivors include her husband Donald W. "Don" Hall; one son and daughter-in-law, David E. and Patricia A. Hall of Ilion; two daughters and sons-in-law, Donna J. and Gregory A. Smorol of Hilton Head, SC and Barbara E. and Michael Foster of Poland; six grandchildren, Carrie, Donald and Bryan Hall, Gregory, Stephen and Sarah Smorol; four step granddaughters, her great-grandchildren, Tyler and Peyton Dellinger, Brittany, Ryan and Julie Smorol; her sister-in-law, Hilda Paddock; and two nephews, David and Robert Paddock all of Ilion. She was predeceased by her two sons, Jefferey S. Hall who passed away in 1960 and Christopher S. Hall who passed way in 1976 and one brother, Charles Paddock Jr. in 1988. All funeral and burial services will be private. There are no public calling hours. Private interment will take place on the family lot at Oak View Cemetery, Frankfort, Memorial contributions in Betty's name may be considered to the Cedarville Ambulance Fund or your favorite charity. Donation envelopes are available at the funeral home or may be sent directly to the family. All arrangements have been entrusted to the Applegate and Day Funeral Home, 102 W. Ilion St., Ilion. (September 14, 2003)
Wesley "Wes" Donaldson '41, age 79, a longtime Utican who relocated to Richmond, VA, in order to be closer to his family, passed away on Sunday, April 27, 2003, in Richmond. Born in Eaton, NY on May 22, 1923, Wesley was the son of the late Arthur and Minnie Donaldson.Raised and educated in Ilion, he was a graduate of Ilion High School in 1941. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps, where he was a member of a music unit that entertained fellow servicemen. On December 4, 1948, he was joined in marriage with the former Antoinette D'Angelo with whom he shared a union of 41 years prior to her passing on October 26, 1990. Throughout the years of their marriage, Wes and Antoinette enjoyed a closeness founded upon their mutual love and support. At one time, Mr. Donaldson held a position as an underwriter with Utica Mutual; he later worked for the City of Utica as a housing inspector. He was then employed with UNIVAC for several years. In addition, Wes was a gifted musician who used his special abilities to engage in various other professional endeavors. From 1960- 2000, he served as organist at St. Anthony of Padua Church. He also offered piano instruction to students of all ages for a period of time from 1970-85. In addition, he performed with several local bands over the course of his career as a musician. Wes was not only a talented player, but he had an extensive knowledge of music, a keen understanding of musical concepts, a natural gift for appreciating and interpreting music in all its forms and varieties, and the innate ability to transpose musical notation with great facility, a skill which proved to be of great benefit and value both to himself and to his associates. Wes was a longtime and avid follower of the NY Yankees. Locally, he was more than just a baseball fan, having served for several years as a team manager for the Pony Colt League. For many years, he entertained the residents of local nursing homes, notably the Masonic Home. Throughout his life, he was an animal lover and greatly enjoyed pets. In regard to his involvement in organizational activities, Wes was a member of the Knights of St. John, Commandery #385 and a communicant of St. Anthony of Padua Church. Mr. Donaldson is survived by two sons and daughters-in-law, Daniel and Patti Donaldson of Florida, and Anthony and Leah Donaldson of Virginia; his grandchildren, Nicole and Daniel Rios, Anthony Donaldson, Jr., Danny, Jr., and Natalie Donaldson, David Donaldson, Dana Marie Donaldson, and Michael A. Donaldson; and four great-grandchildren, Jakob, Joseph, Joshua, and Nicholas. He also leaves his extended family who were very dear and important to him; Father Anthony LaFache, Deacon Bill Dischiavo, Nick and Rosemary Pezzulo, and the members of the choir at St. Anthony of Padua Church. Visitation will be held on Thursday (today) from 5 to 8 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc, 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Please omit floral offerings. For those wishing to do so, please consider donations in Wes' memory to the St. Anthony of Padua Renovation Fund; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. The Knights of St. John will assemble this evening at 7:30 at the funeral home for ritualistic services. Mr. Donaldson's funeral will commence on Friday at 12:00 noon from the funeral home and at 1:00 at St. Anthony of Padua Church, where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Interment will take place in St. Agnes Cemetery at the convenience of the family. (May 28, 2003)
Roberta (Bobby) Jarvis Garlock IHS '41, age 78, of Bradenton Beach, died Monday, Aug. 27, 2001, at home. Born in Ilion, Mrs. Garlock came to Manatee County from there in 1982. She was a homemaker. She attended First Presbyterian Church in Ilion. Survivors include her husband, Donald; two sons, Gregory A. of East Jordan, Mich. and Peter D., of Ashburnham, Mass.; three sisters, Wilma Danforth and Camila Caswell, both of Ilion and Leona Cramer of Big Lake, Minn.; four grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at a later date. National Cremation Society, Sarasota Chapter, is in charge of cremation arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Southwest Florida, 5955 Rand Blvd., Sarasota, Fla. 34238, or to the American Cancer Society, 600 U.S. 301 Blvd. W., No. 136, Bradenton, Fla. 34207. (September 2, 2001)