Ilion High School
Class of 1947
Alumni News
Digitized Class Yearbook....
IHS 1947 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 1947 is at your fingertips....as published in the 1947 Mirror Class History. "The Mirror" was dedicated to George "Deke" White and Daniel "Murph" Murphy, "...two who have given us the most loyal support possible in all our athletic activities." (February 19, 2002).
Class Roster....
Class Roster, Officers and Honor Students, as published in the "The Mirror 1947", are available on the 1947 Class Roster page. (added February 16, 2022).
Class Historical Newspaper Articles....
Newspaper articles about the IHS Class of 1947 (added April 25, 2022)
Ronald McLean and Walter Williams - IHS 1945 and 1947 - Pharmacists
IHS 1945 and 1947 alumni, Ronald McLean and Walter Williams, were among the graduates who pursued a career in pharmacy and were featured in the November 2020 Cover Story. Their education, career and obituary were published as Ronald McLean - IHS 1945 - Pharmacist and Walter Williams - IHS 1947 - Pharmacist. (modified June 27, 2024)
Dave Doty Memorial Fundraiser....
Dave Doty (IHS 1947) Memorial Fundraiser Golf Outing
Save the Date: Sunday, June 30th (Rain or Shine)
Doty's Golf Course 1804 Barringer Road Ilion, NY Phone 315-894-2860
G. Ostrander, G. Kane, P. Michaud, D. Parmon, F. Dutton, J. Michaud, Mr. David Doty - Mohawk High Teacher and Golf Coach
Join the Doty family and friends for a round of golf or just stop by for a casual chat to share your memories and stories of Dave.
A portion of the day's greens fees will go toward a three-month membership, in Dave Doty's name, for a CVA golf team member(s).
This membership will give the awarded student(s) currently attending CVA a chance to golf free at Doty's G.C. during their summer break.
A 9-hole walking golf round is $13.00 and riding is $20.00 per person. If you would like to set up a tee time please call Steve or Deb at the golf course (315) 894-2860.
Food (hot dogs, hamburgers, chips, drinks) will be available on a donation basis from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. or until gone.
All donations for food will go toward the scholarship of the membership(s). There will be a 50/50 raffle available as well as other options to win! Check out Doty's Golf Course on Facebook:
Condolences.....
Mrs. Juanita (Smith) Burger, IHS 1947, age 96, passed away peacefully at her home on December 22, 2023 with her loving family by her side. Juanita was born on October 2, 1927 in Cincinnati, OH to parents Pryse and Julia King Smith. She attended schools in both Cincinnati, OH and in Ilion, where she graduated with the class of 1947. She later went on to obtain her Associate's Degree from HCCC in 1974. She was married to William Burger on June 4, 1949 in Ilion. The two shared a blessed union until William's passing on November 23, 1988. Juanita was employed as a Long Distance Operator with NY Bell and later with Verizon for many years. She was a member of the Garden Club, the Telephone Pioneers, and the Ilion Snowdrifters where she served as Past Secretary for 5 years. She was also a communicant of the Church of the Annunciation in Ilion. She was a loving, giving and compassionate woman. Juanita's life was centered around her family and her home. Nurturing and gentle by nature, she was a source of guidance and strength to her loved ones. She was a good mother who was always there for her children. Juanita is survived by her beloved children and their spouses, William Burger of Herkimer, Eric Burger and his wife, Peggy of Ilion, Sharman and her husband Bob Richards of Ilion, Lance Burger and his wife, Leslie of Ilion, Kristina (Tina) Riley of Ilion, Kurt Burger and his wife, Erin of Ilion and Julia and Roger Murray of North Carolina; her 21 grandchildren; 33 great-grandchildren; one sister, Joan Hall of FL and many nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by one brother, John Smith and one sister, Margie Brewer. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, December 28, 2023 at 4:00 pm in the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St. in Ilion with Deacon James Bower, officiating. Calling hours will take place from 2:00 pm until the time of services in the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home. Interment will take place later in the Spring in North Columbia Cemetery in Ilion. (December 23, 2023)
Marion (Baker) Lawrence, IHS 1947, age 92, of Ilion, passed away Monday, June 13, 2022 at Little Falls Hospital. Marion was born in Ilion on August 26, 1929 to Joseph A. and Edna S. Baker. She was a graduate of Ilion Central School and Utica School of Commerce. She was a charter member of the ARC Herkimer Board of Directors, formed in 1969 and was active for 50 years before being conferred to Board Member Emeritus. She was a lifetime member of First Baptist Church of Ilion where she served in many capacities, including Treasurer and choir director for 40+ years. Marion was predeceased by spouses, Orlyn Irving, Melvin Blann, Sr. and Burton Lawrence; brothers, Robert Baker and Edward Baker. Also, a daughter in law, Candace Irving, step-daughter, Diane Holzschou and step-daughter and close friend, Christine Mergenthaler. She is survived by children, James Irving (Shuli), David Irving (Sandra), Jane Gochenour (Gerald) and Cynthia Reed. Also by step-children, Melvin Blann, Jr., Judith Cox, Deborah McDuffie, Robin Cunningham, Scott Lawrence, Bruce Lawrence; several grandchildren and step-grandchildren. Her family wishes to thank special friends, Carol, Betty, Jeanne and Robin. Also, her caregivers at the Mohawk Homestead, Alpine Nursing Center, and Little Falls Hospital. If you wish to honor Marion’s memory, please consider gifts to Mohawk Homestead, 62 E. Main St. Mohawk, NY 13407 or to ARC Herkimer, PO Box 350, Herkimer, NY 13350. Calling hours will be Tuesday, June 21, 2022 from 12:30-2:00 PM at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St, Ilion, NY. Her funeral service will be held immediately following calling hours at 2:00 PM in the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home with Pastor John Partice, officiating. She will be laid to rest at the convenience of her family in Armory Hill Cemetery. To leave condolences for Marion's family, please visit www.whiter-hendrix.com. (June 28, 2022)
John T. McKenna, IHS 1947 age 91, formerly of Ilion, passed away unexpectedly, on Sunday, July 4, 2021, at his home, in Suwanee, GA. Born in Ilion NY, Jack graduated from the Annunciation School in Ilion and Ilion High School class of 1947. Jack was a stand-out basketball player serving as team captain his senior year. He enjoyed watching High School and College basketball through his life and was an avid fan of Syracuse U. basketball. After high school, Jack continued his education at MVCC. Majoring in marketing and minoring in fast-pitch softball, Jack had a great time until he was drafted into the military. The Korean conflict was underway and he was given the choice of services in which he could enlist. He joined the US Navy and served 4 years, most of it on the Aircraft Carrier escort Kula Gulf. His Navy cruises were in the Mediterranean where Jack was able to visit many gulf countries and experience a variety of cultures. While at their home base in Virginia Beach, VA, Jack met his future wife, Nira. After his enlistment ended, Jack returned to Ilion with Nira where they married and started a family. He joined Oneida National Bank as a teller. He worked his way up the ranks within Oneida National bank starting with general bank management and moving eventually into business lending. While serving his bank customers, Jack served the community in the Knights of Columbus, Kiwanas Club, United Way, Chamber of Commerce and county development corporations. He was especially proud of his participation in the American Cancer Society. Through several mergers, Jack continued to serve his business customers in New York State before retiring as an Executive Vice President of Bank of America. He had a busy career but found time to take his family on vacations to Nira's family in the mountains of West Virginia, lakes in the Adirondacks and trips to New England and Maine. In spite of a demanding career, his zest for life and energy enabled him to maintain a healthy balance between work and family. Jack enjoyed his retirement years. After retiring from Bank of America, Jack and Nira moved to Panama City Beach FL where they lived for several years. Jack's retirement allowed him to spend more time with his family. He especially enjoyed time with his grand and great grandchildren. After several years they moved to the Atlanta GA area, near his sons, Jim and John and lived there until his death. Jack, as he was known to family and friends, is survived by his sister Joann Joy and children, Jim McKenna, Kevin McKenna, Suzanne Gerling, John McKenna and Sharon McGuire. Grandchildren: Heather Sides, Jim McKenna, Christine Goux, Kevin McKenna, Megan McKenna, Jason Gerling, Nicholas Gerling, Ryan Gerling, Johnny McKenna, Katelynn McGuire, Caroline Sorriento and John Patrick McGuire, great grandchildren include Riley and Jakob Sides, Jackson, Brantley and Sullivan Goux, Andrew and Nolan McKenna, Nathan Skinner, Parker Gerling. Jack was predeceased by his parents James J McKenna and Julia C McKenna of Ilion, brother Edward McKenna, sister Mary Greenfield as well as his beloved wife Nira McKenna. Calling hours will be held Monday, July 12, 2021, from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., at the Applegate-Day & Enea Family Funeral Home's larger location, at 4309 Acme Rd. (Old Main St.), Ilion (Town of Frankfort). Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, July 13, 2021, at the Church of the Annunciation, Ilion, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Father Paul Catena, Pastor. Burial will be in Armory Hill Cemetery, Ilion. Anyone wishing to share a memory of John, or add to his online memorial, may go to www.applegateandday.com. John's service arrangements and supervision are entrusted to his Family Funeral Director and friend, Don Applegate. (July 17, 2021)
Dorothy VanSteinburg Daly IHS 1947, 90 of Ilion, passed away peacefully on Saturday April 4, 2020 at The Grand in Ilion. Dott was born in Ilion, the daughter of Clayton and Marjorie Coleman VanSteinburg on June 7, 1929. She attended Ilion schools and the St. Luke's School of Nursing. On October 19, 1957 she married her husband of 62 years, Robert J. Daly, at Blessed Sacrament Church in Mohawk. Together they raised their five children in the wonderful South Third Ave neighborhood of Ilion. She enjoyed a 40 year career at the Mohawk Valley General Hospital and was a nurse's nurse with a take-charge attitude. She was a long time, active, member of the Church of the Annunciation in Ilion and the Ilion Historical Club. Dott was the matriarch of her family, and always the "go to girl" in all her circles, be it family, neighbors, friends or co-workers. If someone had a project, challenge or problem she could always be called upon. She also lived up to her married name, Daly, which in Irish means "place of assembly". She was a tireless worker who was always happiest when assembling groups to share time and experiences with. Whether it was a poolside picnic with her baked beans and fireworks, a holiday gathering with more people than could fit or a summer vacation to Cape Cod, she enjoyed having family and friends together, especially her grandchildren. In her last few years, when she couldn't assemble groups easily, she would always say: "you never know, and you won't know". She might have been saying to us, you never know when your health will fail or when some problem is just around the corner, so make sure you assemble now, when you can, and share life with each other. Finally, it's worth mentioning, she loved every color, as long as it was pink! Dorothy is survived by her loving husband Bob; five children Leigh and Brian Lytwynec of Sparta, NJ, Timothy Daly and Scott Vaughan of Ilion, Kathleen and John Reese of Ilion, Mary and James Salamone of Liverpool and Erin and Kurt Burger of Ilion; eleven grandchildren Andrew and Jill Lytwynec, Beth Lytwynec, Christine Lytwynec and Steve Eckenrode, Jacqueline Reese, Daniel Reese, Stephen and Jennifer Salamone, Sarah Salamone, Emily Salamone, James Salamone, Lauren Burger and Ryan Burger; three great grandchildren Gabriel and Rowan Lytwynec and James L. Salamone. Dorothy was predeceased by her brother Robert E. VanSteinburg. Funeral services for Dorothy will be private, due to the COVID-19 restrictions. She will be laid to rest in the Armory Hill Cemetery in Ilion, Fr. Paul Catena will officiate. Friends are asked to please consider a memorial donation to Annunciation Church 50 West St. Ilion, NY 13357. Arrangements are with the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, Inc., 100 Otsego Street, Ilion, New York 13357. To send an online condolence, please go to www.whiter-hendrix.com. (April 18, 2020)
Ronald W. McLean IHS 1947, our beloved father, grandfather, great grandfather, father-in-law and friend passed away on April 22, 2020 quietly and comfortably at St. Luke's Campus of MVHS, New Hartford, under the watchfulness of the amazing nurses and doctors who provided kind and compassionate care throughout his stay. Our dad, Ron, was born on November 11th, 1927, the only child of William and Bessie (Soutar) McLean in Ilion. He was a graduate of Ilion High School in 1945 and enlisted in the army until the end of World War II. He was honorably discharged from the 82nd Airborne, Glider Division, and enrolled in the Albany College of Pharmacy, class of 1951. In 1953, our dad and mother, Helen Finnegan, moved to Newport, where he opened his first pharmacy. He later opened a second pharmacy in Barneveld. Our dad was well respected for his dedication to his profession and his commitment to the community, his friends and neighbors who affectionately called him "Doc". It was in this setting that our dad became an avid fly fisherman, golfer and downhill skier. He was instrumental in the formation of the Honey Hill Country Club, now known as Newport Golf course, and was the first President and Charter Member of Honey Hill. Dad left Newport in 1976 to start his second career at Albany College of Pharmacy. Again, he gained the respect of colleagues and students. He retired in 1996 as the Acting Dean of the college. In his retirement, he pursued a third career painting watercolors. He was co-owner and contributor (paintings) to A Touch of Color Art Gallery along with Sue and Anne White of Albany. Dad also enjoyed fly fishing in the Big Horn Mountains of Wyoming, listening to and conducting classical music from his favorite chair and he golfed into his early 80's. As a proud Scots, he enjoyed watching and teaching his grandchildren their heritage as they grew and started families of their own. In 2016, our dad moved to Whitesboro, to be closer to family. He is survived by his 5 children, Eric and Linda McLean of Chattanooga, TN, David and Valarie McLean of Newport, Janice McLean of Utica, Jeffrey and Jill McLean of Whitesboro, and Mary and Tim Oles of Ghent. He is also survived by 7 grandchildren, Mary E. (Betsy) McLean, Dr. Meredith Bassett, Nathan McLean, Mary Helen McLean, Ronald J. McLean, Van Oles and Brady Oles. In addition, he is survived by his 4 great grandsons, Ian and Sam Bassett and Kellen and Owen McLean. Special mention to the White Family of Albany. Due to recent restrictions, memorial contributions, visitation and a memorial mass at St. John's Catholic Church, Newport, will be announced at a later date. Interment will be in St. John's Cemetery, Newport, with military honors by the United States Army Honor Guard. Arrangements are under the direction of the Autenrith Funeral Home, Newport. (November 27, 2020)
Patricia A. (Murphy) Fletcher IHS 1947, died peacefully on Saturday, January 18, 2020, in Eden Prairie, MN, with her children by her side. Patricia was born in Ilion, NY, on February 15, 1930, the second oldest of a family of six children of the late George J. and Mary (Luebbert) Murphy. She graduated from Ilion High School and furthered her education at the College of St. Rose, Albany, NY, where she obtained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She later was employed at St. Elizabeth Hospital for 40 years in various positions until her retirement in 1994 as Assistant Administrator. She thoroughly enjoyed her nursing career, including her role as Director of Nursing. After her retirement, she enjoyed volunteering at St. Elizabeth Hospital, the Diabetes Association, Hospice, and the Abraham House. On June 26, 1954, she was married to James E. Fletcher at the Church of the Annunciation in Ilion. They shared a blessed union of 52 years until Jim's passing on August 28, 2006. She and Jim were the proud parents of four wonderful children: daughters, Kathleen M. Reno, Jean T. Broich (Robert); sons, Timothy G. Fletcher (Maureen), and John D. Fletcher (Carryn). She is also survived by 12 grandchildren, Michele (David) Trump, Katie Reno (Jacob Jewett), Meghan Reno, Jessica (Reed) Bergmann, Max (Sarah) Broich, Carryn (Justin) Schram, Major Daniel (Diana) Fletcher, USMC, Hayley (Brett) Karcher, Brian (Alison) Fletcher, Grace Fletcher, Emily Fletcher, and Marie Fletcher. She also is survived by eight great-grandchildren, all of whom she loved and cherished dearly. The best of times were those times spent with family. Surviving is her brother, Tom (Doreen) Murphy; sister-in-law, Gloria Murphy, and brother-in-law, Chuck Robinson. She also leaves many cousins, nieces and nephews whom she loved and enjoyed! Besides her parents, she is predeceased by her sisters, Joan Robinson, Mary Lalonde, Lois Manley, and brother, Larry Murphy, as well as brother-in-law, Ted LaLonde, brother-in-law, Rob Manley; sister-in-law, Mary Ann Robinson and son-in-law, Dennis Reno. Relatives and friends are invited and may call on Friday, January 31, 2020, from 4-7 p.m. at McGrath, Myslinski, Karboski & Nunn Funeral Directors, 470 French Rd., Utica. Funeral services will be on Saturday, February 1, at 9:30 a.m. at St. John the Evangelist Church, New Hartford. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery, Utica. In lieu of flowers, our family would appreciate donations sent to the Abraham House – 1203 Kemble St., Utica, NY 13501, where Pat had volunteered for many years or N.C. Little Hospice – 7019 Lynmar Lane, Edina, MN 55435, where Pat was cared for so well during her final days with us. (January 26, 2020)
Mrs. Ann E. (McHarg) Venditte, IHS 1947, age 88, formerly a longtime Ilion resident and currently of Cedar Park, Texas, passed away peacefully on Wednesday evening, March 8, 2018, at the Silverado Cedar Park Memory Care Community. Born on September 20, 1929, Ann was the daughter of the late Charles G. and Katherine M. (King) McHarg. She was raised and educated locally, graduating from Ilion High School and then going on to attain her Associate's Degree from Mohawk Valley Community College. On September 30, 1950, Ann was wed to Mr. James V. Venditte at Annunciation Church in Ilion, and together the couple shared in almost fifty-four years of marriage, until Mr. Venditte's passing on April 24, 2004. For over twenty years, Ann was employed with the Mohawk Valley Psychiatric Center in Utica as a Mental Hygiene Therapist, working with children and teenagers to deal with their mental health challenges. She was very good at what she did and had a positive impact on all that she came across. At home, Ann was a devoted wife, a loving mother and a doting grandmother. She was devout in her Catholic faith and was a lifelong parishioner of Annunciation Church in Ilion. She is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law, James and Cindy Venditte of St. Louis, Missouri, Charles and Cheryl Venditte of Stafford, NY and Jeffrey and Sue Venditte of Leander, Texas; her granddaughters, Jade and Joe Venditte-Page, Erin and Ben Martin, Lisa and Andy Stefaniak, Christina and James Williams and Eileen Frances Venditte; and her great-grandchildren, Malakai, Addison, Elizabeth, Nolie and Beckett. She also leaves her brother and sister-in-law, Charles and Doris McHarg of New Hartford, NY; her sister and brother-in-law, Helen and Ben May of Leesburg, Florida; and several nieces and nephews. Friends and relatives are invited to attend Ann's funeral service, which will commence on Thursday morning, March 15, 2018, at 10:30AM at Annunciation Church in Ilion, where her Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Paul Catena, Pastor. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of mass. Spring interment will take place at Armory Hill Cemetery, where Ann will be laid to rest beside her husband, James. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions, in Ann's memory, by mail to the Alzheimer's Association, PO Box 96011, Washington D.C. 20090-6011, or by visiting www.alz.org on the internet. Envelopes will be avilable at the service. Funeral arrangements were pre-arranged and entrusted to Don Applegate, Martin L. Ciaccia, Harry J. Enea and Kevin E. Enea, funeral directors of the Applegate-Day & Enea Family Funeral Homes. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.applegateandday.com. (March 12, 2018)
 Photograph courtesy of the Morris family
Donald Patrick Morris, IHS 1947, age 88, of Pensacola, FL passed away Tuesday, October 31, 2017. He was born on September 1, 1929 in Ilion, NY. Don was the seventh son in a family of eight brothers and one sister. He attended Annunciation School and then graduated from Ilion High School. Don, or "Red" as he was called, starred on the basketball and football high school teams. After high school, Don declined a football scholarship to Hobart College and enlisted in the US Navy. Upon discharge, he enrolled at Rochester Institute of Technology where he obtained his degree in Photography.
In 1953 he married his college sweetheart Maureen J. Doyle who together then raised four children. Don worked as a photographer for General Electric in Utica, NY and eventually opened his own business with his brother Al, Morris Brothers Photography. They operated the business until its sale in 1989. Many good times and holidays were spent with close family friends the Manleys, Paonis and Vayos. Summers were spent in Piseco, NY where Don was a founding member of The Piseco Lake Sailing, Skiing and Tubing Club. Don and Maureen moved to Clearwater, FL in 1989 eventually moving to Venice, FL to be closer to several of his brothers: Dick, Ted and Bob. Don and Maureen moved to Pensacola in 2005 to be closer to their daughter Nancy Morris, MD. In later years Don enjoyed playing bridge and was active in several bridge clubs in Pensacola. He was preceded in death by his wife, Maureen and survived by his brothers, Alfred (Sue) of Boston, MA and Robert (Anne) of Venice, FL as well as his children: Mark (Mary Jo) of Buffalo NY, Nancy (Joe Grossi) of Pensacola FL, Daniel of Pensacola FL and Maureen (Paul Arciero) of New City NY; and grandchildren, Bridget, Erin, Padraic, Ryan, Caile, Michael and Katie; as well as a great-granddaughter, Paige. Funeral Mass will be held 2:00pm Saturday, November 4, 2017 at the Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel, with Fr. Joseph P. Callipare Rector celebrant. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St Joseph's Medical Clinic, 131 W. Intendencia St., Pensacola, FL 32502. The family wishes to express special thanks to Dr. Steve Lenga and the physicians and staff of The Medical Center Clinic, who took great care of him. (November 10, 2017)
Class of '47 Contact....

Carolyn (Deming) Bayer, passed away October 4, 2017. Her help with this web site was greatly appreciated. Twenty years ago, I had the privilege of meeting Carolyn when she provided me her classmates' Senior photos. For twenty years, she has served as the Ilion Alumni web site class contact for the IHS Class of 1947. She was a great lover of history and along with Paul McLaughlin, helped preserve the history of Ilion's veterans on the Herkimer County Gen Web site: Ilion - World War II - War Dead and Ilion - World War II - Veterans. Condolences to her family and friends - Aileen Carney Sweeney
Carolyn (Deming) Bayer, IHS 1947, age 87, of Ilion, NY died peacefully October 4, 2017. She was born May 2, 1930 to Milton and Ethel Kibbe Deming. She graduated from Ilion High School Class of 1947 and was employed at Remington Rand (Univac), Mohawk Data Sciences and the Ilion Board of Light. She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Ilion; the Colonel Marinus Willet-Mohawk Valley Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution; and American Legion Auxiliary Post #25. In May of 1951, she was married to Robert Bayer; together they had four loving children. Carolyn participated in a variety of activities. In her younger years she enjoyed bowling with the ladies, traveling for tournaments, knitting and crocheting for her family and friends, and watching NASCAR with her son. Carolyn spent many happy hours researching her family history. Many new friends were made during her genealogy adventures. Mom enjoyed cooking her delicious recipes for her family and friends. She was always ready with her quick wit, sense of humor and beautiful smile. The thing she loved the most was spending time with her children and grandchildren, especially when everyone could be together. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Surviving are her beloved children, Cheryl and her husband, Kim Robinson of Ilion, NY; two sons, Robert of Manchester Center, VT, and his companion, Barb Gardner, and Randy and his wife, Renee, of Ilion, NY. Cherished grandchildren include Travis Robinson and his wife, Megan; Kara Robinson and her companion, Matt Lipka; Jaimie Bayer; Julianne Bayer and her fiancée, Kevin Dell; Steven Bayer and his fiancée, Erica Candelaria; Jonathon Loomis, and Shaun Loomis; two precious great-grandchildren, Jax and Knox Robinson. She also leaves her brother, Robert Deming and his wife, Jean, of Lake Morane, NY; nephew David Deming and nieces Debbie Deming, Laura Haid, and Leslie Baxter: along with special friends Louise Williams, Ginny Barger and Lillian Gaherty, and several cousins. She was preceded in death by her son, Richard Bayer, and her brother and sister in law, Richard and Doris Deming. Arrangements are with Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, Inc., 100 Otsego Street, Ilion. Per Carolyn's wishes there will be no calling hours. Family will receive friends Saturday, October 7, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. at the First Baptist Church, 8 Second Street, Ilion with Pastor John Partise officiating. The service will follow at 11:00 a.m. with interment at Armory Hill Cemetery. A reception will follow at the church after conclusion of the services. Friends are asked to please consider memorial donations to either the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation 1000 Elmwood Ave. Suite 900 Rochester, NY 14620 or the Ilion First Baptist Church. To send an online condolence please visit www.whiter-hendrix.com. (Octobr 6, 2017)
David A. Doty, 1930 - 2017 (Age 87) IHS 1947, David was born in Ilion, New York on February 11, 1930, to Elverton and Helen Decker Doty. He passed away peacefully with his loving wife, Dorothy at his side on April 5, 2017. Dave grew up in Ilion in the Doty Homestead on Barringer Road and was a proud descendant of Edward Doty, a Mayflower passenger and signer of the Mayflower Compact. Before becoming a golf course, the homestead was a strawberry farm. Workers from the valley would tend to the plants and help harvest the berries until they were ready to be sold locally or shipped downstate on the Erie Canal. Dave attended the Ilion public schools, graduating from Ilion High School in 1947. While in high school he played football and golf and enjoyed participating in the school's theater as a cast member in many plays. In 1949, he enrolled at St. Lawrence University. Following his freshman year, Dave transferred to Hamilton College in Clinton, NY. While at Hamilton he studied pre-med, played football and golf, and was president of his fraternity. A Hamilton College classmate of Dave's fondly recalled a rather lively party at the fraternity house in which Dave and his fraternity brothers tried to see who could slide the farthest on their stomachs on the beer soaked floor of the party room. He couldn't recall if Dave won but he did recall how much fun Dave had getting as many people as possible to join in. Dave did graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology in 1954. Dave's playful and humorous nature encouraged others to laugh and find joy in life. Following graduation, as part of the conscription, better known as the draft, Dave joined the United States Army. After his boot camp training at Fort Dix, New Jersey Dave was sent to Nuremberg, Germany where he was part of the post-World War II occupation troops for two years. While serving his country in Germany Dave was able to travel to many neighboring countries with his first wife, and the mother of his five children, Suzanne. On his return to the United States, he taught English at the all-boys Trinity-Pawling Preparatory School in Dutchess County New York. The school's mission was to educate and instill a value system that prepared young men to be contributing members of society amidst the challenges of an ever-changing world. Dave fit in perfectly as that mission mirrored his own ethics and values. He continued his education by attending Syracuse University, where he earned a Master's Degree in School Administration. In 1958 he moved to Ilion, NY and began a long and fulfilling teaching career in the Science Department at Mohawk Central High School in Mohawk, NY. While Dave had many opportunities to work in administrative positions, he chose to stay in the classroom close to the students who brought such joy to his life. He taught high school science during the day, and during the season coached football, basketball, and golf after school and on weekends. He also was the coach for the high school Ski Club where he spent time joining in and supporting the students in their weekly ski trips all over the slopes of New York and Vermont. Dave was honored to receive a National Science Foundation grant which allowed him to attend college at the State University of New York at Oneonta in the evenings. Though Dave and his wife Suzanne had five active children, he was able to balance all his responsibilities and graduate with a second Master's Degree. This one was in Secondary Science. Well into retirement Dave had many students calling to chat or stopping by to see him at the home he shared with Dorothy on the Eagle's Nest Golf Course in River Hills, South Carolina. One of his former students is writing a book about the people in his life who have influenced him and led him to multiple successful careers as a college professor, musician, and author. A section will be dedicated to Dave. Along with his second wife and childhood friend Dorothy Moore (Warner) Doty, Dave was a member of St. Stephen's Episcopal Church in North Myrtle Beach. The church helped with the local Helping Hands food pantry. One time Dave volunteered to fill in for Dorothy at the food pantry and though there are regulations and guidelines about how much to give out, Dave's generous heart filled their hands a bit more than they were accustomed to, filling both his heart and theirs. As a member and former president of the Episcopal Men's Club Dave volunteered his time to help with the bi-annual rummage sale which also supports Helping Hands. Weeks before their church's rummage sale Dave and Dorothy took the time to make ground chuck hamburgers and homemade chili for the hot dogs that were sold at the concession stand. He helped run the stand and received many compliments on the burgers and chili, often hearing from customers that those two delicious items brought many of them to the rummage sale. The Episcopal Men's Club also helped organize and sponsor the annual Rich Jacobs Memorial Pro Am Golf Tournament. As part of the men's club, Dave volunteered to chair the event over the years. The tournament partners one pro golfer with three amateurs and brings golfers together for the love of the sport, the opportunity to play with pros, and the chance to win prizes solicited by the men's club from local donors. As with the rummage sale, profits also went to Helping Hands of Myrtle Beach. A great quote attributed to the golfer Bobby Jones is one Dave seemed to live by. "Golf is the closest game to the game we call life. You get bad breaks from good shots; you get good breaks from bad shots - but you have to play the ball where it lies." An experienced golfer who loved the sport, Dave got the Holy Grail of golf, a hole in one at age 80. The time was right. Dave looked on his life with the patience of a man who knew how good he had it. David is survived by his wife, Dorothy Moore Doty (IHS '48) and his five children with his wife Suzanne Scoones Mike-Mayer, a son, David Doty (IHS '73) and his wife, Linda (Burnside) Doty (IHS '73), of Clay, NY and their children Kristen Marino (Brian), David Doty, Jr., and Travis Doty (Nicole ); his daughter, (Mary) Jane Doty Fischer (IHS '75) and her husband, Richard Fischer, of Highlands Ranch, CO and their son Ian; a son, John Doty (IHS '76) and his wife, Lendel (Davis) Doty (IHS '75) of Dayton, OH and their children Adrienne Doty (fiancé James Scherer), Claire Powers (Mark), and Barrett Doty; a son, Phillip Doty (IHS '77) and his wife, Beth (Carrig) Doty of Jacksonville, FL and their children Andrea (Ali) Besharat, and Austin Doty; a son, Erik Doty (IHS '79) and his children with his first wife Gina, (Corriero) Doty; Christopher Doty, Katelyn Doty Corriero (Chip Z'Nuff), Joseph Doty, and Andrew Doty; Erik's second wife, Ann (Merrigan) Doty of Greenfield, MA and her children Molly Merrigan, Sean Merrigan, and Christopher Merrigan. Dave is also survived by Dorothy's daughter with her first husband, Bert Warner (IHS '48) Pamela Warner Rosenthal (IHS '72) and her husband, Glenn Rosenthal, of Vienna, VA and their children Moira Jacobsen (Greg), Eric Rosenthal (Pamela), and Katherine Rosenthal. Great grandchildren are MacKenzie, Mia, Mischelle, and Madlynn Marino; Taylor and Kendall Doty; Trevor, Gavin, Xavier, and Amelia Doty; Samuel, Nathan and Hayes Jacobsen; and Olivia Rosenthal. A Memorial Service will be held on Monday, April 17th, at 11 a.m. at St. Stephen's Episcopal Church, 801 11th Ave. N., North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582. David donated his body to the Medical University of South Carolina for medical research. Final interment will be held at a future date in Ilion, NY. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Stephen's Episcopal Church Men's Club at 801 11th Ave. N., North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582. Lee Funeral Home & Crematory of Little River/North Myrtle Beach is assisting the family. Published in Times Telegram from Apr. 12 to Apr. 13, 2017 (modified August 19, 2017)
Benjamin H. 'Ben' Lawrence, IHS 1947, age 88, a longtime Ilion resident, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 5, 2016, at the Faxton-St. Luke's Healthcare Center. Born on July 22, 1928, Benjamin was the son of the late Henry and Frances (Rice) Lawrence. He was raised and educated locally, graduating from Ilion High School with the Class of 1947. Ben then went on to proudly serve his country with the United States Army during the Korean War Era. On December 1, 1951, he was joined in marriage to the former Joanne M. Powers, and the couple recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary. A hard worker with old fashioned values, Ben's primary focus was on supporting his wife and children. He was employed for a time with Chicago Pneumatic, and later in life, with Doyle Security Systems as a Security Guard; most, however, would remember him as an auto body and fender specialist with Ben's Body Shop in Utica. Ben's life was centered around his family, friends, community and faith in God. He was a past member of the Frankfort Stamp Club and was a member of the First Baptist Church in Ilion as a former deacon and Past President of the Men's Club. Ben made a firm commitment in receiving Jesus Christ by faith and knew that he was eternally saved. He leaves behind his beloved family, including his wife, Joanne; his daughters and sons-in-law, Debbie and William Copp of Liverpool, Dianna "DeeDee" and Richard Maiolo of Ridgefield, CT, and Dawn and Robert Pilkington of Danbury, CT; his sons and daughters-in-law, David and Pam (Weller) Lawrence of Ilion and Dale and Lori (Brosemer) Lawrence of Davenport, Florida; his grandchildren, Michael LaTuga, Megan LaTuga, Jessica Copp, Billy Copp, Giovanna Maiolo, Samantha Maiolo, Sophia Maiolo, Matthew and Calin Lawrence, Timothy and Ashley Lawrence, Daniel and Zoey Lawrence, Melissa and Christopher Fehringer and Sarah Lawrence; nine great-grandchildren; his brother and sister-in-law, Rev. Donald and Kathy Lawrence; his sister-in-law, Iris Lawrence; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother, William Lawrence. Friends and relatives are invited to attend Ben's visitation, which will be held from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM on Wednesday, December 7, 2016, from the Applegate-Day & Enea Family Funeral Home's original location at 102 West Street, Ilion, NY 13357. Ben's funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Thursday morning, December 8, 2016, at 11:00 AM at the funeral home, with Rev. John Partise, Pastor of the First Baptist Church in Ilion, officiating. Procession will follow to Armory Hill Cemetery, where Ben will be laid to rest with full military honors. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial contributions to the First Baptist Church, 8 Second Street, Ilion, NY 13357. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. The family wishes to thank the many caregivers at Valley Health Services in Herkimer for their kindness and compassion, as well as the staff of the ER and ICU at St. Luke's Hospital for their support and care during Ben's final days. The Lawrence family has entrusted all service arrangements to Funeral Directors, Don Applegate and Martin Ciaccia. Anyone wishing to share a memory of Ben, or to add to his online memorial, may visit www.applegateandday.com. (December 17, 2016)
Mrs. Patricia 'Pat' A. (Willoughby) Bechard, IHS 1947, age 86, formerly of 91 N. Fourth Ave., Ilion, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 3, 2016, at Mohawk Valley Health Care Center, Ilion, with her family by her side. She was born on March 28, 1930, in Ilion, the daughter of Raymond and Marion (Fenwick) Willoughby, and graduated from Ilion High School in 1947. Pat was married to Leo R. 'Bob' Bechard on October 8, 1949, at the Church of the Annunciation, Ilion. He died on January 1, 2005. In her early years, she was employed as a nurse's aide at Mohawk Valley General Hospital, Ilion, and later was employed at MDS. Most recently, she was employed at Herkimer County Dept. of Social Services as a data processor for over twenty years. Pat was a member of the Church of the Annunciation. In her early years, she enjoyed bowling and motorcycling with her husband, Bob, on their 1947 Indian Chief. She also enjoyed camping and swimming. Pat was on the board of Foothills Girl Scout Council and was a Hospice volunteer. She was very skilled in knitting and crocheting. Pat and Bob enjoyed spending winters at Myrtle Beach for many years. Pat was a dedicated homemaker and loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Surviving family members include five children, Cynthia 'Cindy' Speranza and her husband, Anthony, of Ilion, Gail Mount, of Oklahoma, Brad Bechard and companion, Carol, of Ilion, Dean Bechard and his wife, Carol, of Ilion, and Brooke Redmond and her husband, Steven, of Lee Center; her cherished grandchildren, Anthony Speranza and his wife, Megan, Amy (Mount) Bobo and her husband, Brad, Aaron and Sean Mount, Eric Bechard, Dean 'Rob' Bechard and his wife, Kerri, Jessica Martin, Steven, Elizabeth, Daniel and Dylan Redmond, and Michelle Santillo; great-grandchildren, Ryann and Bryce Bobo, Kianna, Isiah, Adrianna and Alanna Santillo, Cadence Speranza, Aubrey and Derek Martin, Kamryn Redmond, and Jackson Bechard; sisters-in-law, Ann Davis, of Rome, and Julia Soules, of Ilion; brother-in-law, Jay Goodman, of Ilion; and several nieces, nephews and cousins, including special cousins, Ann Seymour and Betty and Fred Kenyon. She was predeceased by her husband, 'Bob', and brother, Robert Willoughby. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, October 6, 2016, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Applegate-Day & Enea Family Funeral Home's original location at 102 West St., Ilion. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, October 6, 2016, at 1:00 p.m. at the conclusion of calling hours at the funeral home at 102 West St., Ilion, with Pastor Brian Engel, of the Mohawk Reformed Church, officiating. Burial will follow at Armory Hill Cemetery, Ilion. Anyone wishing to share a memory of Pat, 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 Ilion Ambulance Fund, Central Fire Station, Ilion, NY 13357, or the Mohawk Reformed Church, 20 S. Otsego St., Mohawk, NY 13407. Envelopes will also be available at the funeral home. The Bechard family has entrusted Pat's service arrangements and supervision to Funeral Director, Don Applegate. (October 22, 2016)
Mary H. (Thompson) Janicki, IHS 1947, a lifelong Ilion resident, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 12, 2016 at Mohawk Valley Heath Care Center, Ilion. Born in Ilion, Mary was the daughter of the late John and Hortense (Gregory) Thompson. Mary began her education at Annunciation School and graduated from Ilion High School in 1947. She was united in marriage to John J. Janicki in 1949. Mary was employed in the Business Office at Mohawk Valley General Hospital for many years. During her retirement, Mary enjoyed many activities including tending to her home, gardening, playing cards and baking for others. For many years Mary knit and gave away countless dishcloths to family and friends. Mary was a parishioner of The Church of the Annunciation, Ilion. Mary is survived by her husband, John; her daughter, Jody and her companion, Rudy Gadziala. Mary was predeceased by her son, John; her sister and brother-in-law, Pauline and Larry Kasper; and many other relatives and friends throughout the years. The family would like to acknowledge and thank Dr. Razia and her staff and the staff at MVHCC for the kindness and care they extended to Mary. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Friday, July 15, 2016 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Enea Family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Road, Ilion (Town of Frankfort), 315-894-8000. Mary's funeral service will take place immediately following calling hours at 12:00 PM at the funeral home. Procession will then follow to Armory Hill Cemetery, Ilion, where she will be laid to rest. In keeping with Mary's wishes and to honor her giving nature, please omit all floral offerings and consider a memorial contribution to a charity of one's choice. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Harry J. and Kevin E. Enea, Funeral Directors. (July 16, 2016)
Harry L. Staley, IHS 1947, age 83, of Westerly, died on June 24, 2014, at his home in Shelter Harbor after a battle with lung cancer. Son of Harry W. and Irene O. Staley and husband of Jayne Rothschild Staley for 58 years, he is survived by two children, Harriet S. Lloyd (Thomas) of Shelter Harbor and Joseph L. Staley (Anna) of Mystic, CT. He is also survived by two sisters, Dolores S. Stover of Pittsfield, NY, and Janice S. Rudmann of Annapolis, MD., four grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Harry was born in Kansas City, Kansas, on August 10, 1930, and later moved to Ilion, New York, where he earned the badge of Eagle Scout. A 1952 graduate of Bucknell University, he was a member of Delta Upsilon Fraternity and editor of The Bucknellian. After joining E.I. DuPont de Nemours & Company's Textile Fibers Division, Harry served in the United States Army from 1954 to 1956, and worked until 1957 as Editor of the U.S.G.A. Golf Journal. He received his J.D. degree from New York University School of Law in 1960, was admitted to the New York State Bar, and became a member of the American Bar Association. After leaving general practice in 1965, he joined Marts & Lundy, Inc., where he was elected Director and, in 1974, assumed the position of Deputy Director of the Westchester Medical Center Development Board, Inc. in Valhalla, NY. He went on to found Staley/Robeson, Inc., the fund raising and institutional development consulting firm. Upon retiring in 2002, he moved from his longtime home in Scarsdale, New York to Shelter Harbor. In 2002, Harry and Jayne founded the Rhode Island Statewide Coalition (RISC), the state's largest bipartisan taxpayer advocacy organization now named RI Taxpayers. As its chairman, Harry became a familiar face on Smith Hill, dedicating his retirement to effecting state taxation and pension reform and leading good-government efforts to pass the first-ever cap on annual property-tax hikes and posting of legislative votes online. He also led the movement opposing a casino in Charlestown, R.I., which resulted in a victory at the United States Supreme Court and was a leading advocate for the repeal of the Master Lever voting option. A kind and gracious gentleman, respected and well-liked by both opponents and allies, Harry was a voracious reader, student of history, advocate for volunteerism, and vigorous champion of ethical government and individual responsibility. The family will host a reception on Tuesday, July 1, at the Shelter Harbor Golf Club, from 10 a.m. to Noon and asks that donations in Harry's memory be directed to R.I. Taxpayers, 1350 Division Road, Suite 101, West Warwick, R.I. 02893. Published by News Journal from Jun. 26 to Jul. 19, 2014. (February 6, 2022)
 Alfred Seymour 1947
Alfred E. 'Sig' Seymour IHS 1947, 84, of Ilion, passed away on Saturday, March 15, 2014, at home, with his loving family by his side. Al was born on April 4, 1929, in Ilion, the son of the late William and Margaret (Kenefick) Seymour; he was a graduate of Ilion Schools. On November 7, 1953, he married the former Patricia Lints at Annunciation Church in Ilion. The couple recently celebrated their 60th anniversary with family and close friends. Al was a retired Sergeant of the Ilion Police Department. Following his retirement, he worked as an Investigator for the Herkimer County District Attorney and Sheriff's Department. Al ended his career in 2002 with a combined total of over 44 years in law enforcement.
He was a member of the Annunciation Church and the Knights of Columbus 4th Degree. Throughout his life, Al was proud of his Irish heritage and enjoyed backyard barbecues by the pool with his children, grandchildren, grand dogs and cats; he also enjoyed following the New York Giants and Yankees, as well as being an avid Notre Dame football fan. In his leisure time, Al enjoyed reading, crossword puzzles, playing pitch and especially Scrabble with Pat and yes they did keep score. Al is survived by his loving wife, Pat; a son, Timothy and his companion, Heather Polley, of Ilion; a daughter, Lisa and her husband, Jason Adamek, of Herkimer; four grandchildren, Erica, Daniel, Libby and Mackenzie; two great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his son, Dr. Jeffery Seymour, and by his brothers and sisters, Chris, Harry, Burton, Joe, Willie, Jack, Bud, Rita and Margaret. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, March 20, 2014, at 10:30 a.m. at the Church of The Annunciation in Ilion; Rev. Paul Catena, Pastor, will officiate. Interment will be in the spring at Armory Hill Cemetery in Ilion. Friends may call on Wednesday, March 19, 2014, from 4-7 p.m. at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, Inc., 100 Otsego St., in Ilion. The Knights of Columbus will hold ritual services at 6 p.m. at the funeral home.Friends are asked to consider memorial donations to the Herkimer County Humane Society or Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc.; envelopes are available at the funeral home.Online condolences may be sent by going to www.whiter-hendrix.com. (April 12, 2014)
Donald Taylor

Don Taylor Class of 1947 - Ilion's Number 1 Fan
Top: 1947 Alumnus - Donald 'Dynamite' Taylor Bottom: George 'Deke' White, Daniel 'Murph' Murphy and Charles Luce
Don Taylor IHS 1947, 82, a lifelong resident of Ilion, passed into the arms of the Lord on Saturday afternoon, May 19, 2012 in St Elizabeth's Hospital in Utica, NY. The past year he has resided in the Harding Nursing Home in Waterville, NY. He was born in Ilion, New York, on February 1, 1930 the son of the late John and Almeta Hughes Taylor of Ilion. He was a graduate of Ilion High School, Class of 1947. Don enlisted in the US Army on February 9, 1951 and was honorably discharged on October 16, 1956. He began his local legendary coaching career in 1953. For the next 43 years he was the CYO basketball coach at Annunciation Catholic School where he taught hundreds of young men, not only the finer points of playing basketball but what it took to be a man of integrity. The Annunciation gymnasium was dedicated in his honor as the Don Taylor gymnasium. Mr. Taylor was the official timer at the track and field events at Ilion High School. He worked as a tool maker by trade at Mohawk Tool and Die. His favorite baseball team was any team that was playing the New York Yankees. He is survived by many nieces and nephews and leaves behind one sister, Ethel Mehring, of Akron, OH. He was predeceased by sisters, Marian Bishton of Ilion, NY; Verna Tresohlavy of Ilion and FL; Leona Hull of Herkimer, NY and brothers, Robert Taylor of Canton, NY and Albert Taylor of Rocklin, CA. and many, many dear friends. Don's funeral will commence on Saturday, May 26, 2012, at 12pm, from the chapel of Enea Family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Road, Town of Frankfort, Ilion, with Rev. Cindy Makarchuk, officiating. Interment will be made in Oak View Cemetery, Frankfort, where he will be laid to rest next to his parents. Relatives and friends are invited to pay their respects at the funeral home from 10-12pm, Saturday, prior to his funeral service. Memorial contributions, in Don's memory, can be made to the Ilion Sports Boosters. Envelopes are available at the funeral home. Online condolences may be offered by visiting www.eneafamily.com. The family is being served by Scott J. Pizer, Funeral Director for Enea Family Funeral Home (May 12, 2012 modified March 20, 2016)
Col. Walter Harold Williams, IHS 1947, USAF Retired, age 80, of San Antonio, Texas passed away on January 17, 2010. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Evan Jr., Fred and Noel and sisters, Mary and Karen. He was survived by his wife of 58 years, Eleanor Sager Williams; daughter, Susan Harvey, sons, Steven and Scott Williams and wife, Gladys, and grandson, Ivan Harvey. "Walt was passionate in his love of God, family and country." Graveside service with full military honors was held on Friday January 22, 2010 at the Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. A memorial service was held on Friday, January 22, 2010 at the First Presbyterian Church 4040 North Alamo. Rev. Ruthie Seiders and Rev. Dr. Louis Zbinden, officiated. Memorial contributions may be made to First Presbyterian Church, 404 North Alamo, San Antonio, Texas 78205. (November 28, 2020)
William A. Owens IHS 1947, 85, of 138 West Clark Street, Ilion passed away Wednesday, April 4, 2012 at his home. Bill was born July 26, 1926 in Ilion the son of the late William J. and Dorothy Perry Owens, he received his education in the Ilion School System and on February 14, 1945 Bill enlisted in the US Navy serving until July 13, 1946. Bill was employed with Remington Arms as a toolmaker retiring several years ago. During his free time Bill enjoyed his family, especially his great nieces and nephews, he loved animals and enjoyed bowling, hunting and especially his camp. Bill is survived by a nephew and his wife Richard "Rick" and Debbie Owens of Westmoreland, a niece Cindy Owens of Nashville, TN, a sister in law Louise Owens of Sun City, FL, his great nieces and nephews, Bryan, Trevor and Danielle Owens and several cousins. Bill was predeceased by his brother Richard. In keeping with Bill's wishes there will be no calling hours. A graveside service with military honors will be held at a later date in the Armory Hill Cemetery in Ilion. Arrangements are with the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home Inc. 100 Otsego Street Ilion. To light a candle please go to www.whiter-hendrix.com. (April 21, 2012)
Audrey M. (Stapp) Gollegly IHS 1947 age 78 of 75 Barringer Road, Ilion, passed away on Good Friday April 6,2007 at the Mohawk Valley Nursing Home with her loving family at her side. She was born on January 19, 1929 in Pierce, Ohio, a daughter of the late Fred & Alice (Brumagem) Stapp. Her family had moved to Ilion where Audrey had lived the majority of her life. She was a graduate of Ilion High School. On June 5, 1948 she joined in marriage with Emmett J. Gollegly in Ilion, a blessed union of 56 years. Emmett passed away on October 30, 2004. Audrey had worked with the former Ilion Hospital for twenty years, retiring in 1990. Audrey will be remembered for her kind and gentle way. She devoted herself to her family. She is survived by her beloved family including her children: Pamela & Brad Griffin of Whitney Point, NY; James M. Gollegly of Daytona Beach, FL; Sherri & Kevin Schiebel of Cedarville; Kevin P. & Marlene Gollegly of Herkimer; and Renee Gollegly of Ilion; Grandchildren: Kristyn & Andrea Morris; Jana Moore, Melissa Gollegly; Ian Griffin, Kyle & Alisha Gollegly; and Michael & Heather Schiebel; great grandchildren: Skyler Moore; Josiah Moore; Aniyah Moore, Zachary Morris Davis, William, Jonathan, and Matthew Schiebel; sisters in law: Ann Jean Flanagan of Oklahoma City, OK; Carol Gollegly of Chadwicks, and Helen Gollegly of North Utica; two step sisters: Mary Jackson of Herkimer, and Arlene Pritchard of West Winfield, a step brother: William Dibble of Alabama; along with many nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by a grandson, Craig W. Schiebel. Funeral services will be held on Friday April 13, 2007 at 10:00 AM from the Enea Family Funeral Home, Main Street Between Ilion & Frankfort with Deacon James Bowers of the Church of the Annunciation, officiating. Interment will follow at Armory Hill Cemetery, Ilion. Calling hours at the funeral home will be on Thursday evening Apr. 12 from 5-7 pm. In lieu of flowers it is the wish of the family that donations be considered to either the Ilion Ambulance Fund or the Herkimer Area Resource Center. Envelopes are available at the funeral home. The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the Meals on Wheels program, to Dawn (Public Health Home Health Aid), the Claxton manor and the Mohawk Valley Nursing Home for the compassion. (April 13, 2007)
Edna C. Marley IHS 1947, age 76, of West St., a lifelong Ilion resident, passed away early Wednesday morning, September 27, 2006, in Mohawk Homestead where she had been a resident for the past year. She was born in Ilion on December 9, 1929, daughter of the late Adelbert and Jennie M. (Loughlin) Marley and was educated in Ilion schools. She was last employed with Remington Arms, Ilion, and she was a faithful member of Annunciation Church, Ilion. Edna will be sadly missed by her sister with whom she resided with for many years: Marian Marley, Ilion; many nieces and nephews including locally: Kevin and Judi McGrellis of Ilion, Melinda Marley of Ilion, Dean and Meg Liberty of Ilion, Matthew and Debra Marley of Ilion, Peter and Jane North of Ilion, and James and Katie LaPaglia of Utica; and in-laws: Margaret Marley and Mary Marley both of Ilion. She was preceded in death by her sisters and brothers: Ruth McGrellis, Helen North, Lila Andrews, John Marley and Frank Marley. The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to every staff member at Mohawk Homestead for the tender love and care offered to Edna. Relatives and friends are invited to visitation at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, 102 West St., Ilion, on Friday Sept. 29, 2006, from 4-7 p.m. Edna's funeral will be held on Saturday, Sept., 30, commencing at 9:30 a.m. from the funeral home followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m in Annunciation Church, Ilion, with the Rev. Anthony Barratt, pastor, officiating. Procession will follow to Calvary Cemetery, Herkimer, where she will be laid to rest. Kindly consider memorial offerings to the Annunciation Church; envelopes are available at the funeral home. Arrangements are being handled by the Enea Family Funeral Home, Ilion/Frankfort. (Oct 11, 2006)
Ferd M. Ames IHS 1947, age 77, of 275 McGowen Road, Ilion, passed away Monday, June 19, 2006, at Alexandria Bay, NY. He was born August 1, 1929, in the Town of German Flatts, the son of the late Walter and Floy Mae Ackler Ames, and was a 1947 graduate of the Ilion High School. On August 1, 1948, he married the former Winifred Belfield in Waterville, NY, a union that lasted 57 years. Mr. Ames was employed as a supervisor with Remington Arms in Ilion, NY, retiring in 1985. Mr. Ames was a member of The Church of the Annunciation and also attended St. Anthony & Joseph Church in Herkimer. Ferd was past president of the Ilion Little League. During his term he had the first girl on a little league team in Ilion. He was a member of the Junior Achievement Program, a member of the Route 5S Expansion Study, The Remington Arms 25 Year Club. Ferd also enjoyed fishing, hunting and bowling and he especially enjoyed his boat at Alexandria Bay. Ferd is survived by his wife, Winnie; three daughters and two sons-in-law, Floy and David Baldwin of Ilion, Gwen Collis of Richmond, VA, Dona and Donald Carpenter of Salisbury, NY; two brothers and a sister-in-law, Walter (Skip) and Beverly Ames of Ilion, Donald Ames of Ilion; three sisters and two brothers-in-law, Barbara and ChetSzczesniak, Sandra Richards, and Mary and Dick LaPoint, all of Ilion; his grandchildren, Eric and Marc Neff, Chad and ReneeBaldwin, Gregg Baldwin, and Amy and Chris Collis; and four great-grandchildren, Hunter Collis, Chelsea Collis, Matthew Baldwin,and Joshua Baldwin; also several nieces and nephews. He will be missed by his canine companion, "Maggie." In keeping with Mr.Ames' wishes there are no public calling hours and the funeral service will be private and at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are with the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego Street, Ilion. Friends are asked to consider memorials to theAlexander Bay Rescue Squad, 110 Walton Street, Alexandria Bay, NY 13607, The American Heart Association or The American Diabetes Association in Fred's memory. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. (September 7, 2006)
George L. 'Bud' Hendrick IHS 1947, age 78, passed away Saturday, May 13, 2006, at Valley Health Services, Herkimer. He was born April 3, 1928, in Ilion, the son of the late Charles and Dorothy Lyman Hendrick. He was a graduate of Ilion High School and served with the Navy during World War II. Upon his return from the Navy he attended S.U.N.Y., graduating in 1951 and was a graduate of the FBI Academy in Washington, D.C. In 1973, Bud was united in marriage to Carol LeBaron. She passed away in 1997. Bud was employed as an investigator with Equifax Insurance Corp., retiring in 1988 after 33 years of service. Following his retirement he worked for several years at Kmart in Herkimer. Bud was a member of St. Augustine's Episcopal Church in Ilion and Ilion Post 920 American Legion. He enjoyed going to diners and was a familiar face at most of them in the area. Bud is survived by five sons, Kurt of Dousman, Wis., Mark of Cicero, Paul of Ilion, Ehrich of San Jose, Calif., and Hans of Mohawk; his sister, Phyllis Hamilton of San Jose, Calif.; 17 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, May 16, 2006, at 6 p.m. from the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St., Ilion, with the Rev. Thomas Trees officiating. The family will receive friends from 4-6 Tuesday prior to the service. Friends are asked to consider memorials to Hospice and Palliative Care, 4277 Middle Settlement Road, New Hartford, N.Y. 13413. Envelopes are available at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home. (September 7, 2006)
George E. Gettle Sr IHS 1947, 76, of 24 Orchard St., Ilion, passed away Sunday, Oct. 16, 2005, a home. He was born Sept. 18, 1929, in Ilion, the son of the late Peter and Elsie Livingston Gettle, and received his education in the Ilion School District. Mr. Gettle was a veteran of the U.S. Navy. On May 25, 1957, he married the former Shirley O'Driscoll in Rivena Queemans. He was employed as a postal clerk with the U.S. Post Office in Utica until his retirement in 1985. Mr. Gettle was a member of the First Baptist Church in Ilion, the Ilion Masonic Lodge 690 and the Ilion Lodge I.O.O.F. George is survived by his wife, Shirley, of Ilion; two sons and a daughter-in-law, George Jr. and Tina of Ilion andPhillip of Bridgeport; three daughters and sons-in-law, Helen and Keith Hutchins of Oregon, Debra and ClydeHaire of Kentucky and Michele and William Conrad of Texas; a sister and brother-in-law, Marion and Leon Beckerof Herkimer; also 14 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Funeral services for Mr. Gettle will be held on Thursday, Oct. 20, at 11 a.m. from the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St., Ilion, with the Rev. Paul Smith officiating. Interment will be in the Armory Hill Cemetery, Ilion. Friends may call Wednesday from 5-7 p.m. at the funeral home. Friends are asked to consider memorials to Hospice and Palliative Care or the American Cancer Society in George's memory. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. (Nov 14, 2005)
Grace Lever Bullis IHS 1947, passed away September 9, 2003 after an extended bout with cancer. Grace and Dick Bullis were here for our 50th class reunion in 1997 and it was great to see them. They have been living in Rochester for the past few years. She will be missed by all!!. (July 11, 2004)
 Myron Bouck 1975 - Industrial Arts Teacher/Coach
Myron 'Mike' Bouck, IHS 1947 & Industrial Arts Teacher/Coach, age 74, of Palmetto, FL, passed away after a heroic battle with heart disease and cancer on Oct. 23, 2003. Born April 15, 1929, in Ilion, he earned his teaching degree from Oswego University; his Master's Degree from Oneonta University and was an Army Veteran of the Korean War. "Mr. Bouck" was an Industrial Arts and Physical Education coach at Ilion High School and a member of the United Federation of New York State Teachers. He and his wife, Mary, moved to Palmetto, Fla. in 1981.
Survivors include his loving wife of 31 years, Mary; daughters Erin and partner Brian of Pasadena, Calif., Jacqueline Murphy of Mohawk, Judy Nudo and husband William of Mohawk and Jan Nudo and husband Robert of Saratoga; sons Christopher and wife Jeanine of Dolgeville, Michael and wife Barbara of Littleton, Colo., Matthew and wife Shannon of West Melbourne, Fla., and Donald Casey and wife Theresa of Mohawk; brothers, Lewis, Donald and wife Betty of Ilion, and David and wife Irene of Schuyler; 24 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by brothers, Paul, Frank and grandson, Daniel. A memorial service will be held on Friday, Oct. 31st, 11 a.m. at St. Mary's Episcopal Church in West Palmetto. Another memorial service will be held in Ilion in the Spring. Mike will always be remembered for his love of life and he believed a positive attitude could help you achieve anything. He will be missed by everyone who loved him. Donations can be made to Hospice of Southwest FL, 5955 Rand Blvd. Sarasota, FL 34238. (October 31, 2003)
Norma M. (Dodge) Wilson IHS 1947, age 73, formerly of 610 First Ave. Ext., Ilion, died Monday, Nov. 18, 2002, at Folts Home, Herkimer, after a long illness. She was born Aug. 4, 1929, in Ilion, the daughter of Stanley and Margaret McNamee Dodge and was Born Again on Feb. 2, 1979. Norma graduated from Ilion High School in 1947, and St. Elizabeth School of Nursing in 1950. On June 9, 1951, she was married to Jay H. Wilson in Ilion. At one time, Norma worked as a registered nurse at the Ilion Hospital. She was a member of the Word Christian Center of Herkimer and the St. Elizabeth Hospital Alumni Class of 1950. Norma loved her family and friends. Survivors include her husband, Jay; her daughter and son-in-law, Lori and Dennis Dolan of Nazareth, Pa.; two sons and one daughter-in-law, Ronald "Ron" and Mary Ellen Wilson of Asheville, N.C. and John J. Wilson and his fiancŽe Robin; two grandchildren, Jennifer and Joel Dolan; her sister, Katherine Hofstra of Ilion; her nephew, Joey Hofstra and her niece, Lois Hofstra; her brother-in law and sister-in-law, Bruce and Barbara Wilson of Auburn, Calif.; and her cousin, Louise Watson. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 21, at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, 102 West St., Ilion, with Pastor Gene Kipper and Pastor Jack Cogar officiating. Interment will be in Oak View Cemetery, Frankfort. Calling hours are Wednesday from 5-8 p.m. at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home. The family wishes to thank the nurses and aides at Folts Home for the wonderful care given to Norma during the past nine years. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association of Central New York. Donation envelopes will be available at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, Ilion. (November 20, 2002)
Audrey (Preische) Wiernicki IHS 1947 passed away March 4, 2001. (April 10, 2001)
Lois (Lyman) Eaton IHS 1947 passed away Oct. 28, 1997. Lois lived in Chelmsford, Mass. Lois was unable to attend the reunion. She suffered from multiple sclerosis for a number of years. (March 17, 1997)
Harry (Fred) Heiland IHS 1947 died June 4, 1998. Fred lived in Ilion. (March 17, 1997)
Felix Scanlon IHS 1947, who attended the 50th reunion, in August, passed away on Tuesday, November 11, 1997 in Houston, Texas. Our condolences are extended to the friends and family of Felix. (November 13, 1997)
GoFundMe Headstone Fund - Donald Taylor IHS 1947

Ilion Alumni raised funds, in one day, for the The Don Taylor Headstone Fund. Coach Donald J. Taylor was a lifelong resident of Ilion and a true Ilion Golden Bomber. He passed on May 19, 2012. He was laid to rest next to his parents in the Oak View Cemetery in Frankfort on May 26, 2012 and does not have a proper headstone. The campaign was begun by Chris Walsh and $3,415 of the $1,500 was raised in 24 hours.
Facebook post by Chris Wallace - "It has come to my attention that there is no headstone where Don Taylor is buried in Frankfort, next to his parents. There is a Memorial 800 Meter Run in his honor on Sunday, July 24 at Noon at the CVA track. Anyone who would be interested in attending the Run they will be taking donations to buy Mr. Taylor a headstone at the event. Or if you are unable to attend I would be more than willing to deliver donations myself. Mr. Taylor had a huge impact on a lot of our lives and it would be nice to give back. Let me know if you're interested."
Please join us for the Ilion Days "Don Taylor Memorial 800 Meter Run/Walk" on Sunday, July 24th at the CVA track in Ilion starting at 12:00pm. The Don Taylor Memorial Run (July 5, 2016)
 Photograph courtesy of David William IHS 1970
Dr. Seymour Scholarship Fundraiser..
The Dr. Jeffrey Seymour Scholarship Fund, St. Patrick's Day Dinner will be held on Saturday - March 16, 2002, at the Ilion Knights of Columbus, from 4 to 8 pm. A Boiled ham dinner will be served. Other events include raffles and entertainment provided by DJ Ron Clive. The dinner is sponsored by Jeff's friends and family. All are welcome! Jeff was a 1983 graduate of Ilion High School. He died unexpectedly, in a car accident, on January 6, 1997. Dr. Seymour, 31, resided in Ilion with his wife Pina and was the son of Alfred & Patricia Seymour, of Ilion. (February 19, 2002)
Congratulations.....
Golden Anniversary Congratulations to:
Virginia Nelson and Cliff Barger were married July 5, 1952. A party was held in their honor at Charlton, NY.
Bob Harter and his wife, the former Elizabeth Studer were married June 23, 1952. They have 5 children and 14 grandchildren.
Margaret Wright and Jim Vivyan were married April 15, 1950.
Ann McHarg and Jim Venditte were married September 30, 1950.
Mary Thompson Janicki and John Janicki recently celebrated their 50th anniversary. They were married on August 20, 1949. They were feted at a party given by their children, Jody and John S. Janicki. The affair was held at the Crystal Chandelier, Route 5, Herkimer. Many friends and family members attended to celebrate the occasion. Congratulations to Mary and John from all your classmates!!(September 25, 1999)
Emmett '46 and Audrey (Stapp) '47 Gollegly will be celebrating their 50th Wedding Anniversary on June 5, 1998. (May 26, 1998)
The 50th Reunion!!!
The Class of 1947 held a 50th reunion on August 15,16,17, 1997.
Carolyn (Deming) Bayer was in charge of the reunion. Carolyn's address is 68 North Fourth Ave, Ilion NY, 13357
Reunion Committee: Dott VanSteinburg Daly, Mary Thompson Janicki, Al Seymour, Patricia Willoughby Bechard, Carol Deming Bayer
Details of events:
Friday Aug 15th Informal "Dutch Treat" get to-gether,
at Knights of Columbus, 74 West St., Ilion
Saturday Aug 16th Guided tour of High School
at 10:AM.
Saturday Aug, 16th 5:30-6:30 "poolside champagne hour"
at Dott VanSteinburg Daly's house, at 137 South Third Ave Extension, Ilion.
Saturday night, at 7:PM, a Buffet dinner,
at Knights of Columbus
Class photo, at the dinner.
(Save those reunion photos, we'll put them on your Class homepage)
Sunday morning breakfast
at 9:AM at Knights of Columbus.
This completed the three day reunion. We all had a great time!
Carolyn (Deming) Bayer graciously provided some candid reunion photographs, as well as the Official Reunion Class Picture....
Class of 1947 Statistics:
Graduating class consisted of 97 students, 29 are deceased, 39 attended the reunion - Check here for details.
Myron Bouck has largest family: 8 children, 24 Grandchildren, 8 Great Grandchildren
Farthest attendee: Ralph Joy from Morro Bay, California
The following members of the Class of 1947 are no longer with us...
- Ferd M. Ames (June 19, 2006)
- Charles Askham
- LLoyd Baulch (IHS Spanish Teacher)
- Myron Bouck (IHS Industrial Arts Teacher & Coach) (October 23, 2003)
- Margaret (Peg) Bruso Miller (February 4, 2007)
- Mary Bump Fay
- Rosemary Coleman Tracy
- Jean Conboy West
- Mary Alice Corwin Brodie (May 17, 2005)
- William Coupe
- Darrell Day
- Carolyn (Deming) Bayer (October 4, 2017)
- Norma M. Dodge Wilson (November 18, 2002)
- David A. Doty (April 5, 2017)
- Charles Farley
- Robert Folmsbee
- Ann Furman Day
- George Gettle (October 16, 2005)
- Marian Green Evans
- Doreen Hailston Daniels
- Harry Heiland (June 4, 1998)
- Shirley Hendry Hermann
- George L. 'Bud' Hendrick (May 13, 2006)
- Doris Judson Harvey
- Benjamin H. 'Ben' Lawrence (December 5, 2016)
- Grace Lever Bullis (September 9, 2003)
- Phyllis Ludden Schroll
- Lois Lyman Eaton (October 28, 1997)
- Edna Marley (Sept 27, 2006)
- Ann E. (McHarg) Venditte (March 8, 2018)
- Ronald W. McLean (April 22, 2020)
- Thomas Mills
- Donald Morris (Octber 31, 2017)
- Patricia A. (Murphy) Fletcher (January 18, 2020)
- Samuel Nile
- Joseph Richard 'Dick' Norman
- Jane Olsen Skramko
- Leroy Outtrim
- Audrey Preische Wiernicki (March 4, 2001)
- Harvey Robinson
- Robert Rowlands
- Robert Sanders
- Felix Scanlon (November 11, 1997)
- Edward Schafer
- Alfred Seymour (March 15, 2014)
- Elmer Shute
- Harry L. Staley (June 24, 2014)
- Audrey Stapp Gollegly (April 6, 2007)
- Donald Taylor (May 19, 2012)
- Mary H. Thompson Janicki (July 12, 2016)
- Betty Townsend Nicastro
- Ada Van Valkenburg Celi (Aug 29, 2004)
- Dorothy VanSteinburg Daly (April 4, 2020)
- Kathleen Vayo
- William Vayo
- Walter Harold Williams (January 17, 2010)
- Patricia 'Pat' (Willoughby) Bechard (October 3, 2016)
- Milford Yardley
Class Directory.....
As a result of the reunion, Classmate Addresses are now available. Almost 25 percent of the Class of 1947, continue to call ILION their home!
Scholarship Established.....
A scholarship to honor Ilion alumnus, the late Dr. Jeffrey J. Seymour, Class of 1983, has been established by family members and friends. Dr. Seymour, 31, resided in Ilion with his wife Pina and was the son of Alfred & Patricia Seymour, of Ilion.
Bombers Buzz Website.....
Dick Powers , Retired, email, Santa Barbara, CA, registered. (Mar 26, 2009)
Carolyn Deming Bayer, email, from Ilion, NY, re-registered in the directory. (Oct 12, 2008)
Barbara Bowie Combar, Retired R.N., from Torrance, CA, email, re-registered. (November 13, 2003)
Glenn McPherson, email, from Marcellus, NY, re-registered. (September 29, 2003)
Marilyn Waters Francisco, RETIRED BUT NOT SHY, from Melbourne, FL, email, registered. (April 3, 2003)
Robert Harter is attending the mega-reunion. (September 28, 2002)
David Doty, email ddoty@sccoast.net, Little River, SC, is attending the mega-reunion. (July 25, 2002)
Helen Latt Rider, from Inlet, NY, is attending the mega-reunion. (May 24, 2002)
Robert Harter, from Ilion, NY, submitted the mega-reunion survey form. (March 4, 2002)
Harry Staley, Consultant, email , Westerly, RI, registered.
Mr. Staley, an attorney, is the Founder and Chairman of Staley/Robeson firm, a national leader in not-for-profit fund-raising counsel. "In a distinguished career exceeding 30 years, Mr. Staley has earned a reputation as one of the nation's leading fund-raising consultants. Institutions and organizations across the nonprofit spectrum in the United States and in Europe have benefited from his advice and counsel. Widely recognized as one of the profession's leading problem solvers, Mr. Staley led the development of the S/R CLASS Program and the firm's Annual Giving Seminar." You can find Mr. Staley's biography at the Staley/Robeson site. (June 10, 2001)
Ralph Joy, Retired, email , Morro Bay, CA, registered. (April 27, 2001)
Rosemary Harris Hohu, email , from Dewey, Arizona, registered. (December 27, 2000)
Ralph Joy, Retired, email , from Morro Bay, CA, registerd. (July 17, 2000)
Barbara Bowie Combar, email , tried Guess the Graduate (February 23, 2000)
Dorothy Van Steinburg Daly, email , from Ilion, NY, registered. (October 10, 1999)
Patricia Willoughby Bechard, email , from Ilion, NY, registered in the directory. (September 13, 1998)

Mr. Glenn McPherson from Marcellus, NY., the first alumnus from the Class of 1947 to register in the alumni directory. Glenn writes... "Will report back after the reunion. Keep up this great page. You are doing a great job for all of us. I will tout this page at the reunion. Keep in touch"
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