Obituaries
from the Daily Mail
May 2004
Transcribed by Sherri Wells
Obituaries provided by Sylvia Hasenkopf
1 May 2004, May 4, 2004
ROSE LAWRENCE
Lifetime Area Resident
TANNERSVILLE – Rose Lawrence, 68, of Park Lane, died Wednesday, April 28, 2004 after a short illness.
Born August 8, 1935, she was the daughter of the late Grace and Harry Winnie.
Rose was a lifetime resident of Tannersville and a member of the Mountain Top Senior Citizens Group and Kiwanis Club of Saugerties.
She is survived by her sister, Mary Anne Krause; two daughters, Deborah Lawrence and Kim Blain; a son, Ricky Lawrence; as well as six grandchildren, Ricci and Rosemary Lawrence, Shawn Harris, Seth, Kyle and Sra Blain.
She was predeceased by her husband, James Lawrence, and brother Earl Winnie.
Funeral services will be held on Thursday, May 6 at 11 a.m. at the Aston-Basagic Funeral Home, Main Street in Hunter. Officiating will be the Rev. Karen Monk.
Friends and relatives may call at the funeral home on Wednesday, May 5 from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m.
Interment will follow in the Tannersville Evergreen Cemetery.
1 May 2004
DORIS E. LOSEE
Long time resident
ALCOVE – Doris E. Losee, a long-time Alcove resident, died Friday, April 30, 2004 at Van Rensselaer Manor in North Greenbush.
Doris was a member of the Trinity United Methodist Church in Coeymans Hollow and the Ravena Grange No. 1457.
Doris is survived by her step-children, Kenneth (Delores) Losee, Sr and Donald (Catherine) Losee, Sr., both of Selkirk, Richard (Antoinette) Losee, Sr of Port St. Lucie, FL, James (Wanda) Losee, Sr of Alcove and Donna Vickery of Waterford as well as 15 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.
She was predeceased by her husband, Almern Sylvanus Losee; a brother, Malcolm Reynolds; and two sisters, Addie Reynolds and Eunice Wilmer.
Calling hours will be held at the Caswell Funeral Home, 64 Martins Hill Road (Route 143) in Ravena on Sunday, May 2 from 4 to 8 p.m.
The funeral will be held on Monday, May 3 at 10 a.m. at the Trinity United Methodist Church, Route 143 in Coeymans Hollow, with Pastor Steven W. Peiffer officiating.
Burial will follow in Chestnut Lawn Cemetery in New Baltimore.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Trinity United Methodist Church, PO Box 8, Coeymans Hollow, NY 12046 will be appreciated.
4 May 2004, May 5, 2004
AMELIA M BEPLER
Homemaker
HUNTER – Amelia M. (Nellie) Bepler, 80, of Hunter died May 2, at Columbia Memorial Hospital.
She was born December 13, 1923 to the late Frank and Maria Majewski in Jersey City, NJ.
She was a homemaker and enjoyed gardening and was a lover of animals.
Survivors include two sons, Charles Jr. and wife Christine and Richard of Hunter and one daughter, Joan (Rob) of Delmar, two granddaughters, Ericka and Jill Beplek of Troy; one sister, Stella Tomaski of Brooklyn; five nieces and nephews and many great-nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by one brother John Majewski.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Friday at the Immaculate Conception Church in Haines Falls.
Calling hours will be from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday at the Aston-Basagic Funeral Home, Main St. Hunter.
Internment to follow in the St. Francis deSales Cemetery in Elka Park.
4 May 2004
ELIZABETH FRITZ
Former Cairo Resident
CAIRO – Elizabeth C. “Betty” Fritz, who died February 17, 2004 in Liverpool, NY, was laid to rest in a private ceremony at the Cairo Cemetery on Saturday, May 1, 2004. She was predeceased by her husband Harry.
Mrs. Fritz, a native of Cairo, was a long-time member of the United Methodist Church in that community as well as the Cairo Chapter O.E.S. She was also a long-time supporter of the Cairo Hose Company.
Anyone wishing to make a donation in her memory may do so either to the United Methodist Church of Cairo, the Cairo Chapter O.E.S. or the Cairo Hose Company.
Funeral arrangements were under the direction of the Richards Funeral Home, Bross Street, Cairo.
4 May 2004
RUTH M. MERRILL
Former Athens resident
SPRING HILL, FL – Ruth M. Merrill, 84, of Spring Hill, FL, died Wednesday, April 28, 2004 at the Hernando Pasco Hospice House, Brooksville.
She was born in Plattsburgh, NY and came her 17 years ago from Athens.
She was a homemaker, a member of the Eight O’Clock Crafters Club in Athens, and of the Methodist Faith.
Survivors include her husband Robert of Spring Hill; two sons, Sidney Alan of Ocala, FL, and James Robert of San Juan, Puerto Rico; a daughter, Donna Lee Blaise of Fairhaven, VT, a brother John Davis of Safety Harbor, FL, six grand-children, and many nieces and nephews.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Merritt Funeral Home, Spring Hill, FL.
4 May 2004
VIOLA ‘VI’ MIKHITARIAN
Memorial Service
CATSKILL – A memorial service will be conducted for Viola ‘Vi’ Mikhitarian, who died January 16, 2004, on Friday May 7, 2004, 11 a.m. at the First Reformed Church, 310 Main Street, Catskill.
The Rev. Vicky Eastland, pastor, will be officiating. Internment of her cremains will follow in the Town of Catskill Cemetery.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Millspaugh Camerato Funeral Home, 139 Jefferson Heights, Catskill.
4 May 2004
CATHERINE M. MURRAY
Memorial Service
AUSTIN, TX – Catherine M. Murray, 80, of Austin, TX, died April 29, 2004 at the Hospice Austine, in Austin, TX.
Born December 7, 1923 in Syracuse, NY, she was the daughter of the late Daniel and Helen (Weeler) Carson.
Survivors include her husband Arthur Murray; sons, Daniel Lane and his wife Carol of Chino, CA, James Land and his wife Margaret of Stuyvesant, NY; daughter Margaret Jansen of Austin, TX; son, Patrick Lane and his wife Deborah of Freehold; daughter Nancy Hooper and her husband Michael of San Antonio, TX; son, Richard Lane and his wife Kathy of Houston; son, Peter Lane and his wife Vicky of Cairo; grandchildren, Colleen Pineda, Kelly Porter and her husband Brian, Daniel Lane and his wife Angela, James and Jacqueline Lane, Luke Jansen, Jarrett Lane and his wife Amber and Kelsey, Kendra and Ryan Lane, Tessa Bourgoine, Megan and Hattie Lane, Laura and Daniel Lane; great-grandchildren, Jaina, Alana, Brian, Danielle, Jacob, Jeremiah and Hannah; and sister, Mary Reale.
She is predeceased by a brother, Charles Carson; grand-son Wyatt L. Jansen, and husband Richard F. Lane.
A memorial service will take place on Saturday, May 8, 2004 at 11:30 a.m. at the Sacred Heart Church, Cairo, with the Rev. Fr. J. Nunan, pastor, officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Hospice Austin, 4107 Spice Wood, Springs Rd., Suite 100, Austin, TX 78759-8645.
Local arrangements are under the direction of the Richards Funeral Home, Bross Street, Cairo.
4 May 2004, May 5, 2004
CHERYL NICKLAW
Craft artist
CATSKILL – Cheryl Nicklaw, 55, of 92 Thompson St, Catskill, died Monday, May 3, 2004 at Columbia Memorial Hospital in Hudson.
She was born March 24, 1949 in Queens, NY, the daughter of Jackie Lopo Fontana of Tamarac , FL, and the late Joseph Florek.
Ms. Nicklaw lived in Catskill in the late 1950’s and 1960’s. She was a graduate of Hendrick Hudson High School in Peekskill.
She was a self-taught artist and loving grandmother.
She has been a Catskill resident for the past several years.
Survivors include her mother Jackie Fontana of Tamarac, FL, a daughter, Tara Westfield of Hyde Park; two brothers, Larry Florek of Brooklyn, and John Fontana of North Lauderdale, FL; three sisters, Donna Florek of Ft. Lauderdale, FL, Kim Winburn of Manchester, VT, and Barbara Scura of Clermont, FL; three grandchildren, Thomas Stein, Quinn Westifeld, and Nathan Westfield; her cousin and best friends Joanne Clapper, and Shirley Foster and Patty Frenza; and many other aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.
Memorial services will be conducted 11:30 a.m. today at the Traver and McCurry Funeral Home, 234 Jefferson Heights, Catskill.
The Rev. John J. Murphy, pastor of St. Patrick’s Church of Catskill, will be officiating.
Internment at a later date will be at the convenience of the family.
4 May 2004
RICHARD G. TANNER
MIDDLEBURGH – Richard G. Tanner of Middleburgh, who died on March 2, 2004,
will be 11 a.m. Saturday, May 15, at the Rensselaerville Cemetery,
Rensselaerville.
Following the internment, there will be a memorial service for Richard at 2 p.m. at the Lawyersville Reformed Church, Lawyersville, NY.
4 May 2004
DONALD F. YOUNG
Former carpenter and mason
HUNTER – Donald F. Young, 81, died May 2, 2004. He was predeceased by his wife, Nan, of 58 years on June 23, 2003. Donald was born on February 10, 1923 in Tannersville to Floyd and Florence (Garrison) Young.
He was a U. S. Marine during World War II and a member of American Legion Post 165. He was a carpenter and mason on the mountaintop for many years.
Donald is survived by one son, Warren and wife Daine of Altamont; three daughters, Donna and husband Rick Deemer of NH, Kathryn (husband Walter Legg predeceased 2002) of Haines Falls, Dale and husband Joe Haag of Haines Falls; eight grandchildren and six great grandchildren; two sisters, Gladys (Les) Van Valkenburg of Valatie and Arlene Darakjian of NJ; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by two brothers and one sister.
Calling hours will be tonight form 7 to 9. A memorial service will be held Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. at Aston-Basagic Funeral Home at 7742 Main St, in Hunter. Contributions can be made in memory of Donald and in honor of Dylan Legg (great-grandson) to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation at PO Box 356, Wappinger Falls, NY 12590.
5 May 2004
ELIZABETH JOHNSON
Formerly of Glenville
STAMFORD – Elizabeth Johnson, 97, formerly of the Glenville Section of Tarrytown, NY until five years ago, died Saturday May 1, 2004 at her residence in the Robinson Terrace Nursing Home, Stamford, NY.
Born on March 27, 1907 in Pawling, NY, she was predeceased by her husband Harry J. Johnson on June 10, 1963.
Mrs. Johnson was a member of the Methodist Church of Tarrytown, NY and the Glenville Ladies Fire Company Auxiliary.
Survivors include her sons, Harry J. Johnson of Grottoes, VA, Charles Johnson of Norwalk, CT; daughter Florence Brophy of Suffern, NY; and her stepdaughter, Dorothy Kelly of Matawan, NJ; nine grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren.
There will be no calling hours. Services will be held privately at the convenience of the family at the Kensico Cemetery in Valhalla, NY.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Decker Funeral Home, Windham.
5 May 2004
JERRY J. KING
Loves sailing and music
CAIRO – Jerry J. King, 90, of Bross Street, Cairo, formerly of Oklahoma City, died Monday, May 3, 2004 at Columbia Memorial Hospital, Hudson, where he had been a patient since April 20, 2004.
Born in the Bronx, Oct. 12, 1913, he was the son of the late Abraham and Rebecca King.
Mr. King made his home in Cairo with his daughter Frances (Peaches) Caiazzo. He has been an area resident of Cairo for the past three years. Prior to his retirement he was an engineer for the Altec Machinist Co. of Oklahoma City. He loved sailing, music and swing dancing. He was a member of the TR-7 Auto Club of Oklahoma City and a member of the Solo-Single Group and the Parents Without Partners Organization.
Survivors include two daughters, Karen King of Oklahoma City, and Francis (Peaches) Caiazzo of Cairo; sister Kay Orloff of Brooklyn; and a grandchild, Lauren King of Oklahoma City.
Calling hours are Wednesday 2 to 4 p.m. at The Richard’s Funeral Home, Bross Street, Cairo.
Burial will take place at a later date in Oklahoma City.
Memorial donations may be made to the Columbia Greene Humane Society, 125 Humane Society Rd., Hudson, NY 12534, or to the Greene County Women’s League Cancer Patient Aid, c/o Mary Lupoli, 467 Silver Spur Rd. W., Purling, NY 12470. Envelopes can be obtained at the funeral home.
May 8, 2004
ARLINE ISABEL HANER SMITH
Local Store Owner
GREENVILLE – Arline Smith, 86, died Friday, May 7, 2004 at St. Peter’s Hospital and Hospice Unit where she had been a patient for the past month.
Born in Leeds on July 22, 1917, she was the daughter of the late Julius Ray and Catherine Thorne Haner.
She was a graduate of Cairo High School and, following her return from Southhampton, L.I., she co-owned and operated the Scrap Basket shop in South Westerlo with her niece, Raye Saddlemire, from 1979 to 1984 when it closed. She was employed by the Country Gentleman in South Westerlo from 1984 to 2002 and was a member of the Westerlo Historical Society.
Mrs. Smith is survived by her daughter, Mrs. Michael (Catherine) Lagala of Tennessee Valley, CA; three granddaughters, Mrs. Chris (Jennifer) Flohr of Sacremento, CA, Stacey Lagala of San Francisco, CA, and Jessica Lagala of Davis, CA; as well as niece Raye Saddlemire of South Westerlo.
She was predeceased by her husband Donald Smith, on Sept. 2, 1963 in Southhampton; a son, Peter Haner Smith on Aug. 21, 1967, the victim of a military aircraft accident in Alaska; and a sister Marie Cooke on Oct. 13, 2002.
Funeral Services will be held on Monday, May 10 at 11 a.m. in the Millspaugh Camerato Funeral Home at 139 Jefferson Heights in Catskill with William Balta, Pastor of the Congregational Christian Church of South Westerlo, officiating. Internment will follow in the Town of Catskill Cemetery.
Friends and relatives may call at the funeral home at 10 a.m. prior to the service. Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association or to a local hospice of the contributor’s choice.
May 8, 2004
DORIS F. TAYLOR
Photojournalist
CLAVERACK – Doris Flynn Taylor, 81, died Thursday, May 6, 2004.
A native of Staten Island, she was born on Jan. 30, 1923 and moved with her family in 1965 to Columbia County.
She was a photojournalist and feature writer for the New York Daily News. She had her own radio talk show on WCKL. In 1980, she became an original doll artist with her award-winning “Hakka Woman”, which was sold in Disney World, FL. She has exhibited in London and Lucerne, Switzerland.
She was a member of the Dutch Heritage and Shaker Doll clubs, as well as the World Wide Doll Makers and American Doll Artists.
Mrs. Taylor was a world traveler and frequent lecturer at Columbia-Greene Community College.
The wife of the late Edward W. Taylor, she is survived by daughters Pamela Farrell of Ghent, Deborah Zindell of Santaluz, CA and Alison Ryan of Aberdeen, NJ. She had nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
Services will be held at the Bates and Anderson Funeral Home, 110 Green Street in Hudson. Viewing will be on Sunday, May 9 from 2 to 8 p.m. Mass services will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Hudson at 11 a.m. on Monday, May 10 with the Rev. Thomas Powers officiating.
Pall bearers will be Kevin Ryan, Edward Ryan, Donald Farrell, Larry Thornton, Mike Martel, and Rob Snell.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Shrine of St. Jude, 411 East 68th St., New York, NY 10021.
May 9, 2004
LAURA E. HOTALING
Lifetime resident
WEST COXSACKIE – Laura E. Hotaling, 94, of Reservoir Road, died May 7, 2004, at the Barnwell Health Facility in Valatie where she had been a resident since Aug. 30, 2002.
Laura was born in New Baltimore on March 15, 1910 and was the daughter of the late Clarence and Bertha (LaJeune) Albright.
She was a lifetime resident of the Coxsackie area, a member of the Medway Congressional Church and the National Historical Society. She was a good cook and an old fashioned farmer. She loved picking and packing apples. When her late husband Albertus was the clerk for the Town of New Baltimore, she was his official bookkeeper.
She is survived by a son, Richard E. Hotaling and his wife Bonnie of West Coxsackie; a brother, Wilbur Albright of Hudson; a sister, Mrs. Stephen (Elsie) Batza of Hannacroix; two grandchildren, Gary and his wife Kathleen of Freehold and Sandra Peterson of West Coxsackie; as well as six great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, May 11 at 10 a.m. at the W.C. Brady’s Sons Inc. Funeral Home, 97 Mansion Street in Coxsackie. The Rev. Stan Lemons of the Medway Congregational Church will officiate.
Internment will be in Riverside Cemetery.
Calling hours will be held on Monday, May 10 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home.
10 May 2004
EARL H. COOK JR.
Heavy equipment operator
COXSACKIE – Earl H. Cook, 63, of Coxsackie, died unexpectedly at his home on Saturday, May 8, 2004.
He was born Jan. 30, 1943 in Saugerties.
Mr. Cook started off his work career as a lumberjack in West Shokan. He went to work for Atlantic Cement in January, 1963 and attained 41 years of service. He was an expert heavy equipment operator.
He was a devoted husband, father, son, and grandfather. He was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying hunting, fishing, boating, and camping. He enjoyed most of all spending his time with his family; his whole life was about his wife and family.
Mr. Cook was a very caring man to his family, friends and co-workers. His friendly and congenial way will be missed by all who knew him. He was a truly good person and a gentleman.
He was married to his surviving wife Barbara Cook for 41 years. Their family includes Darin Cook of Glenville, Nora and John Muller of Earlton, Iaian and Dari (Cook) McGibbon of Hannacroix; and Christie and Jason Allen of Coxsackie; and seven grandchildren, Nikki Muller, Anthony Praga, Jay Muller, Caitlin Cook, Connor Allen, Dana McGibbon, and Fiona Allen. He is also survived by his mother, Elnora Cook of Saugerties, his aunts, Margaret Johnston of Saugerties, and Thelma Felton of Lake Katrine, dear family friend Lorraine Cain and many other family members.
Calling hours will be 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the W.C. Brady’s Sons Inc. Funeral Home, 97 Mansion St., Coxsackie.
Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.
Internment will follow in Blue Mountain Cemetery, Saugerties.
11 May 2004
MARTHA JANE ADAMO
EGG HARBOR TWP, NJ – Martha Jane Adamo, 73, of Egg Harbor Twp., NJ, died in the early morning hours of May 10, 2004 after a long illness.
Born and raised in Elliot, IL, she has been a resident of Egg Harbor Twp. And Galloway for the past 21 years.
Survivors include her husband of 52 years, Edward; three children: Daniel and his wife Susan of Houston, TX, Denine Savage of Madison, CT, and Amy Bodnar and her husband James of Medford, NJ; and one grandchildren, Shannon Savage of San Francisco, CA.
A memorial service will be held 1 p.m. Monday, at the W.C. Brady’s Sons Inc. Funeral Home, 97 Mansion St., Coxsackie, where friends may call one hour prior.
11 May 2004
CARL ITEN
Local Farmer
CATSKILL - Carl Iten, 77, of 43 Ambach Lane, Catskill, died Monday, May 10, 2004, at his home after a long and courageous battle with cancer.
Born in Teaneck, NJ, he was the son of the late Urban Iten and Mary Zuercher Iten.
Mr. Iten was raised on the family diary farm in River Vale, NJ and in 1947 he and his parents moved to Catskill and purchased the farm on Embought Road. His interests were vast and he truly loved live. Those close to him knew, however, most dear to his heart was his farm and the great outdoors. When he wasn’t working hard on his farm, you could find him peddling his fruits and vegetables or enjoying a good flea market or yard sale. He was the husband of Connie Health Iten, they had been married for 40 years.
Survivors include his wife; his son, Lewis Naylor and his wife Denise of Ft. Lauderdale, FL, son Donald Naylor and his wife Barbara of Catskill; daughter Dawn Galtieri and her husband Ralph of Round Top; son Todd Iten and his girlfriend Sharron Bennett of Catskill; daughter Ericka Iten of Scottsdale, AZ; his daughter Heidi Iten and her boyfriend frank Sapone of Coxsackie; and sister Mary Grossmann of Catskill; seven grandchildren; Lewis, Todd and Lindsay Naylor of Ft. Lauderdale, Donald Naylor Jr. of Valatie, David Smith of Catskill, Carmone and Christina Galtieri of Round Top; two nieces, Sue Chalmers of South Windsor, CT, and Julie Schumacher of Burnt Hills, and several relatives in Switzerland.
As per his request, private cremation was conducted at Albany Rural Crematorium under the direction of Millspaugh Camerato Funeral Home, 139 Jefferson Heights, Catskill. There will be no services.
The family requests memorial donations may be made to organizations such as the Farm Bureau and any preservation funds or the National Rifle Association.
11 May 2004
DONALD E. WHATELEY
Avid airplane pilot
PALENVILLE – Donald E. Whateley, 75, of Route 32, Palenville, died Saturday, May 8, 2004, at home.
Born March 8, 1929 in Jersey City, NJ, he was the son of the late Sidney and Florence Whateley.
Mr. Whateley lived in Jersey City and North Bergen, NJ. He served in the US Army and was stationed at Camp Chafee in Arkansas prior to being sent to Europe during the German occupation. He was a mechanic for Pony Express in New Jersey, co-owner of Glendon Associates of Bergen County, NJ, and later worked at Rider Truck Rental and Fruehauf Trailer Inc. of Albany. He was an employee of Atlantic Cement Company in Ravena prior to his retirement. He was co-owner of Captain Midnight’s Flea Market with his wife Caroline R. Whateley who predeceased him on May 12, 1982. He was an avid airplane pilot and chess player for many years. He enjoyed ballroom dance, roller skating and was a member of the Albany Polish American Club and Singles Without Partners.
He was predeceased by a brother, Sidney T. Whateley Jr. and a sister Florence Graham.
Survivors include his son, Donald T. Whateley of Catskill; daughter Carolyn C. Seymour of Catskill; three brothers, George Whateley of Waldron, Franklin Whateley of Walkill, Richard Whateley of New Jersey; a sister, Dorothy Buckowski of Catskill; five grandchildren, Regina C. Whateley, Kathy Seymour, Donald T. Whateley Jr, Amanda Whateley, and Timothy Seymour; special friends, Ida Scott, Gene Hervey, and Dave Story; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.
Calling hours are Wednesday, 5 to 9 p.m. at the Traver & McCurry Funeral Home, 234 Jefferson Heights, Catskill.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, 8 p.m. at the funeral home. The Rev. Linda McEatheron will be officiating.
Private cremation will be performed at Park View Cemetery in Schenectady.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or American Heart Association.
12 May 2004
ROBERT R. SCHELLER
US Army veteran
PORT ST. LUCIE, FL – Robert R. Scheller, 79, passed away on Thursday, May 6, 2004 at St. Lucie Medical Center.
Born in New York City, he had been a resident of Catskill for 35 years and Port St. Lucie for 17 years.
During World War II, he served in the United States Army. He was a lifetime member fo the VFW and of the BPOE Elks Lodge #1341 in Catskill.
Prior to retirement, he was a vocational teacher at the Coxsackie Correctional Facility where he was previously a corrections officer.
Survivors include his wife of 54 years, Kathleen Scheller of Port St. Lucie; son Roy (Toni) Scheller of Wasilla, AK; daughters Patrice Larkin and Diane Scheller, both of Catskill and Kathy (Michael) Scheller-Harwick of Colorado Springs, CO; grandchildren, Robert Dingee, Anita Youngamn and Branwen Buckley; great-granddaughter Donna Marie Scheller.
He was predeceased by his sister Lillian Nemeth.
A memorial Mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, May 14 at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, Port St. Lucie.
Those who wish may make contributions to St. Vincent DePaul, 930 SE Tunis Avenue, Port St. Lucie, FL 324952.
Arrangements by the Aycock Funeral Home in Port St. Lucie.
13 May 2004
ALBERT J. PRICE
Service announcement
CAIRO – Graveside services will take place on Thursday, May 13, 2004, at 10 a.m. at the Cairo Cemetery for Albert J. Price, who died on March 18 at Eden Park Health Care Center in Catskill.
The Rev. Fr. J. Murphy, Pastor of St. Patrick’s Church in Catskill, will officiate the service.
Everyone is asked to meet at the cemetery the day of the service.
Arrangements are by the Richards Funeral Home in Cairo.
13 May 2004, May 14, 2004
WILLARD W. RIVENBURG
US Army veteran
CATSKILL – Willard W. Rivenburg, 81, of Hamburg Ext., died May 11, 2004 at Columbia Memorial Hospital in Hudson.
He was born in Sept. 23, 1922 in Oak Hill and was the son of the late Basil C. and Louise (Fredenburg) Rivenburg.
Prior to his retirement, Willard was employed at I.B.M. in Kingston, NY. He served his country during World War II in the United States Army, receiving an honorable discharge.
He was a seven-year member of the American Legion Post #983 of Cairo, a 16-year member of the Catskill Elks Lodge #1341 and was past commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of South Cairo, NY. He enjoyed fishing and hunting.
Besides his parents, Willard is predeceased by his wife Mary Pauline Rivenburg and brother Lawrence Rivenburg.
He is survived by sons Willard A Rivenburg of Round Top and Timothy J. Rivenburg of Latham; daughter Edna Crewell of Acra; brothers George and Sherwood Rivenburg, both of Catskill, Fred Rivenburg of Ocala, FL, and Edward Rivenburg of Kingston; sisters Katherine West of Athens, Virginia Hagan of Long Island and Helen Salvato of Vermont, as well as many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends are cordially invited to attend calling hours at the Richards Funeral Home, Bross Street in Cairo, on Friday, May 14, 2004 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. The Cairo American Legion Post #983 will hold services in his memory on Friday evening at 7:30 p.m. and the Catskill Elks #1341 will hold a service at 8 p.m.
Prayer services will take place on Saturday, May 15 at the funeral home at 10 a.m. with Roger Vincent officiating.
Internment will follow in the family plot of the Catskill Rural Cemetery.
13 May 2004
VICTORIA TERWILLIGER
Service Announcement
CAIRO – Graveside services will take place on Friday, May 14 at 11 a.m. at the Cairo Cemetery for Victoria Terwilliger, who died on March 18 in Cairo.
Everyone is asked to meet at the cemetery the day of the service.
Funeral arrangements are by the Richards Funeral Home in Cairo.
13 May 2004
WALTER B. WILSON JR.
US Army veteran
MAPLECREST – Walter “Wally” B. Wilson Jr., 72, of Maplecrest and South Windsor, CT, died May 10, 2004 at his residence in Maplecrest.
He was born on Dec. 25, 1932 to Walter B. Wilson Sr. and Mary Theresa Hagan.
He received his bachelor’s degree in aeronautical engineering from Brooklyn Polytechnical Institute. From 1952 to 1944 he served in the United States Army Airborne 187th Regimental Combat Team in Korea and Japan and was awarded the commendation medal.
He was retired from International Fuel Cells division of Pratt and Whitney Co., and ElectroMethods, Inc. in Connecticut. He also volunteered at guest services in Windham Mountain for the past 10 years.
In his retirement, he enjoyed snowboarding, diving and earned his private pilot’s license.
He is survived by his son Christopher S. Wilson and his wife Diane of Wilton, CT; daughter Elizabeth A Wilson of Hong Kong; sister Joan Kachergis of Waterbury, CT; former wife Winifred (Hoepner) Wilson of South Windsor, CT; grandchildren Christopher R. and Caroline Wilson of Wilton, CT.
There will be no calling hours.
Cremation will take place in the Albany Rural Crematory in Menands.
A private memorial service will be held on Friday, May 14, 2004 at noon at the Decker Funeral Home, 134 Main St., in Windham.
14 May 2004
ANTHONY G. JAREB
Service announcement
COXSACKIE – Graveside services for Anthony G. Jareb, who died on March 5, 2004 in Coxsackie, will take place on Saturday, May 15 at 12:15 p.m. at the St. Mary’s Cemetery in Coxsackie.
The Rev. Fr. J. Moyna will officiate the service.
The day of the service, everyone is asked to meet at the cemetery.
Funeral arrangements by the W.C. Brady’s Sons, Inc. Funeral Home in Coxsackie.
14 May 2004
GLORIA M. TAYLOR
Bookkeeper
SHINGLEHOUSE, PA – Gloria M. Taylor, 74, of Pearl Street in Shinglehouse, formerly of Catskill, died unexpectedly Sunday, May 9, 2004 at Erie County Medical Center in Buffalo.
Born on July 23, 1929 in Long Island City, she was the daughter of Harold and Helen Vogel Gwynne.
She was a graduate of Grover Cleveland High School, class of 1947. In her earlier years, Mrs. Taylor worked as a bookkeeper for various companies in New York City.
On April 29, 1950, she married James H. Taylor in Glendale, NY. She moved to Shinglehouse from Catskill in January, 1990 after the death of her husband on October 1, 1989.
She was a member of the First Reformed Church in Catskill. She was a loving and devoted mother and grandmother. She enjoyed solving crossword puzzles, crocheting and cross stitching. She loved to bake, especially her family’s birthday cakes. She was an avid reader and recipe collector. She loved animals, especially her dog and cat, and enjoyed feeding the birds throughout the winter months. She very much enjoyed tending to her plants.
Surviving are three sons, James S. (Debbie) Taylor of Athens, Thomas P. (Debbie) Taylor of Sebago, ME and Robert J. (Oleta) Taylor of Charleroi, PA; daughter Patricia C. “Patty” (Kevin) Dusenbury of Shinglehouse, PA; half-sisters Mildred Unger of Long Island and Alice Clearwater of Saugerties; seven grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents and husband, Mrs. Taylor was preceded in death by two half-brothers, Peter and William and two half-sisters, Dorothy and Helen.
Funeral services were held on Wednesday, May 12, 2004 at the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home in Shinglehouse, PA. The Rev. Randall W. Headley, pastor of Trinity United Methodist Church in Port Allegheny, PA and the Rev. Russell J. Horning, pastor of the First Baptist Church in Shinglehouse, officiated. Committal services and internment were held in the Maple Grove Cemetery in Shinglehouse.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Shinglehouse Volunteer Ambulance Association, PO Box 98, Shinglehouse, PA 16748 or to the Oswayo Valley Memorial Library Building Fund, PO Box 188, Shinglehouse, PA 16748.
15 May 2004
CLARA L. ERCEG
Feroxcube Co. employee
SMITH’S LANDING – Clara L. Erceg, 82, of Maple Street, died May 13, 2004 at Kingston City Hospital.
She was born in Rome, NY on April 11, 1922 and was the daughter of the late Clarence and Rose (Oliver) Gardner.
Clara moved to Smith’s Landing in 1945. She loved to embroider, cook, play cards and liked to go sightseeing. She was employed by the Feroxcube Co. of Saugerties and was a member of their Pioneer Club.
She is survived by her husband, Peter A. Erceg, and a son, John P. Erceg, both of Smith’s Landing; a daughter, Mrs. Bruce (Linda) Every of Saugerties; three grandchildren, Bill, Kristy and Lori Every, as well as five great-grandchildren.
Relatives and friends are cordially invited to attend calling hours at the Richards Funeral Home, 28 North Vernon Street in Athens, on Sunday, May 16, 2004 from 6 to 8 p.m.
Funeral Services will take place on Monday, May 17 at 10 a.m. at the funeral home, with the Rev. Harrison Putnam, pastor of the Zion Lutheran Church of Athens, officiating.
Internment will follow in the family plot of St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Catskill.
14 May 2004
DR. GEORGE P. MORONT
Former Columbia Memorial Hospital Chief of Staff
HUDSON – Dr. George P. Moront, 73, of Discovery Farm on Kittle Road, died Thursday, May 13, 2004.
Born in Frankfurt, NY, he was the son of the late Francis A. and Josephine Cordado Moront.
He attended public schools in New Hartford, NY and graduated in 1947 before going on to receive his bachelor’s degree at LeMoyne College in Syracuse in 1951. By 1952, he had been awarded an MA in biology at Boston University and completed research work on the effect of Cortisone in the healing of burns, which was later published in the New England Journal of Medicine. In 1956, he obtained his masters degree at Georgetown University where he was awarded the Lederle Research Fellowship in his second year.
Dr. Moront’s internship was served at the University of Chicago Clinics in Chicago, IL. After two years of surgical residency at Georgetown University in Washington, DC, he spent two years as chief of the surgical section of the USAF Hospital at McClellan Air Force Base, where he was awarded a USAF Commendation Medal.
Following his United States Air Force service, he returned for an additional two years of surgical residency at Georgetown University, working under the famed cardiovascular surgeon Dr. Charles Hufnagel. While there, Dr. Moront was in charge of the majority of clinical teaching for senior medical students on the surgical service.
In 1963, Dr. Moront joined the surgical practice of the late Dr. John L. Edwards and his associates, Dr. Ralph L. Spencer and Dr. Thomas C. Seymour. In 1964, he served as consultant in thoracic and vascular surgery at Greene County Memorial Hospital from 1972 to 1981. He was then appointed Chief of Staff at Columbia Memorial Hospital from 1981 to 1990. He retired from practice in 1981.
Dr. Moront was board certified in general and thoracic surgery. He was a diplomat of the American Board of Surgery, a fellow of the American College of Surgeons, a member of the Alden March Surgical Society and the Columbia County Medical Society. He was a previous member of the Columbia County Mental Health Board, the Board of Directors of the Mid-Hudson Heart Association, the COARC Board of Directors, Columbia-Greene Community College Board of Trustees and a member of the Fish and Game Club. Dr. Moront was a communicant of St. Mary’s Church in Hudson.
Throughout his life, Dr. Moront was an avid hunter and outdoorsman. For over 15 years, he and his children enjoyed showing and breeding American Saddlebred horses on their Claverack farm. In 1976, Dr. Moront’s horse Lucky Discovery was crowned World Champion Two-Year Old Five Gaited Champion. After his retirement, Dr. Moront spent much of his time on his sailboat cruising the Long Island Sound.
He was predeceased by his first wife Judith Niesen Moront.
Dr. Moront is survived by his wife Allaire Daley Moront; four children, Dr. Michael Moront and his wife Susan of Toledo, OH, Dr. Matthew Moront and his wife Barbara of Moorsetown, NJ, Mary Moront Hunter and her husband Timothy and Martha Moront, both of Hudson; seve grandchildren, six nieces and nephews, many friends and extended family members.
Viewing hours will be held at the Bates and Anderson-Redmond & Keeler Funeral Home, 110 Green Street in Hudson, on Sunday, May 16 from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m.
Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, May 17 at St. Mary’s Church in Hudson.
Internment will be in Cedar Park Cemetery in Hudson.
Memorial contributions in Dr. Moront’s name may be made to COARC, PO Box 2, Rt. 217, Mellenville, NY 12544 and to the Greenport Rescue Squad, 3 Newman Road, Hudson, NY 12534.
17 May 2004
JOHN J. O’LEARY
Ambulance attendant
EAST DURHAM – John J. O’Leary, Sr., 73, of East Durham, formerly of the Bronx, died at the Eden Park Nursing Home on May 14, 2004.
He was born in the Bronx on Sept. 11, 1930, son of the late John J. and Margaret (Lynch) O’Leary.
Serving in the U.S. Navy, he served on the USS Roanoke and the USS Pittsburgh.
He was a retired ambulance attendant having worked at the Beth Israel Hospital in the Bronx. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather.
Survivors include his wife Lorraine (Smith) O’Leary, a daughter, Germaine Acker and her husband Tim of East Durham; a son, John O’Leary Jr. and his wife Christine of the Bronx, his grandchildren, Ethan Acker, John Dylan and Brinn O’Leary, and two sisters, Dorothy Rodmam and Margaret Albin.
Mr. O’Leary was predeceased by a son Andrew Klapatosk.
Calling hours will be 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Monday at the Cunningham Funeral home, 4898 Route 81, Greenville.
Services will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.
As to his wishes, cremation will be at the Albany Rural Cemetery.
17 May 2004
GARY F. SYMONS
Owned Gary’s Tree Works
CAIRO – Gary F. Symons, 63, of Cairo, died Saturday, May 13, 2004 at the V.A. Stratton Memorial Hospital after a long illness.
Born Oct. 7, 1940 in Syracuse, he was the son of the late Robert J. Symons and Francis (Tobin) Symons who resides in Syracuse.
Mr. Symons served in the US Navy aboard the USS Macon CA-132 from 1957 to 1961.
He retired from Air Products and operated his own firewood business known as Gary’s Tree Works.
He will be greatly missed by his wife Dorothy Symons, his brother Jack Symons of CA; his children David Symons and his wife Tammy of Middleburgh, Kevin Symons and his wife Beth of Rotterdam, Collen (Symons) Carnevale and her husband Dean of Scotia, and his grandchildren Michael, Nicole, Corey, Jason, Amanda, Kevin Jr., and Joseph. He has several aunts, uncles, his nephew Danny; niece Alana and several cousins.
Memorial services will take place 11 a.m. Thursday, May 20, at the Richards Funeral Home, 383 Bross St., Cairo.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Patient Care Fund at the VA Stratton Memorial Hospital, 113 Holland Ave., Albany, NY 12206.
18 May 2004
JAMES J. BATTISTI
Retired Greene County Judge
CATSKILL – Hon. Judge James J. Battisti, of Catskill, died Tuesday May 11, 2004 in Catskill. He was 78.
Born in St. Johnsville, Aug. 7, 1925, he was the son of the late James and Enrica Battisti.
Judge Battisti was a World War II veteran in the US Air Force with 31 combat missions as a bombardier. He also received an Air Medal with four oak leaf clusters, a Europlean Theatre Ribbon with four battle stars, and a Presidential Unit Citation. He attended St. Lawrence University and Albany Law School. He was appointed Greene County Judge in 1974 and elected Greene County Judge in 1975, serving two 10-year terms. Among Judge Battisti’s civic activities were: New York State County Judge’s Executive Committee, New York State Association for County, Family and Surrogate Courts, New York State Task Force on Permanency Planning for Foster Children, New York State and Greene County Bar Associations, Past President-Greene County Bar Association, Past County Fund Chairman-Cancer Society, Red Cross, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Veterans’ Memorial Committee, Catskill Elks Lodge, Columbia Memorial Hospital Board of Directors, Friends of Olana, Greene County Council on the Arts and Catskill Country Club.
Judge Battisti was an avid outdoorsman whose favorite activities included golf, fishing, skiing, hunting and tennis.
He is survived by a second wife, June Battisti; his daughter and son-in-law, Dr. Amanda Battisti and Dr. James Fogarty; his daughter, Stacey Battisti; a brother Romeo Battisti; a sister, Lydia Roberson; and several nieces and nephews.
Judge Battisti was to become a grandfather in November of this year, through his daughter and son-in-law, Amanda and James.
A private Catholic memorial Mass for family was organized by his daughters on Sunday, May 16, 2004. Flowers were placed around the flagpole at Dutchmen’s Landing where the flag is at half mast to commemorate Judge Battisti. Information regarding a public remembrance will be forthcoming.
18 May 2004
"AMY" MARAFIOTI
Arrangements incomplete
CATSKILL – Armida M. “Amy” Marafioti, died Monday, May 17 at her home following a long, courageous battle with cancer.
Funeral arrangements under the direction of the Millspaugh Funeral Home, 139 Jefferson Heights, Catskill are incomplete at this time.
18 May 2004
LUCILLE M. WALDRON
Arrangements incomplete
COXSACKIE – Lucille M. Waldron, 73, of Coxsackie, died May 16, 2004 at Albany Memorial Hospital.
Funeral arrangements under the direction of the W. C. Brady’s Sons Inc. Funeral Home, 97 Mansion St., Coxsackie, are incomplete at this time.
18 May 2004
GOLDIE WOOD
Former Becker Electronics employee
COXSACKIE – Goldie Wood, 82, of Coxsackie, formerly of Preston Hollow and Livingstonville, died Sunday, May 16, 2004 at Albany Medical Center surrounded by her loving family.
Before her retirement, due to health reasons, Mrs. Wood worked for more than 20 years at Becker Electronics in East Durham. Her life’s work was to be the best wife and mother to her family possible. She will be forever missed.
She is survived by six children; Walter and his wife Ruth, Donna and her husband Edward Blakeslee, Gerald and his wife Brenda, Lila and her husband Edward Tompkins, Stanly and his wife Marcella and Bruce and his wife Joanne; sister, GertrudeVanTassell and her husband Leslie of Lewisbery, PA; 15 grandchildren; and 26 great-grandchildren.
She was predeceased by her husband, Donald Wood, in 2002; her parents, Lorenzo Layman and Hazel Darby Layman; grandson, Michael Tompkins, great-grandson, Sheldon Wood; and two brothers, George Layman and Louis Layman.
Graveside services will be held Friday, May 21, 11 a.m. at the Oak Hill Cemetery, Route 81, Oak Hill.
Following graveside services, friends and family are invited to the Tri-Village Fire Hall in Preston Hollow for a time of fellowship.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the Coxsackie Rescue Squad, Coxsackie, NY 12051.
19 May 2004
LEONA A. BARBER
Practical nurse
SAUGERTIES – Leona Anna Barber, 62, of West Bridge Street, died Sunday, May 16, 2004 at Kingston Hospital.
She was born July 3, 1941 in Saugerties, the daughter of Freda Mickle Paradee Martin and the late Duane L. Paradee.
A graduate of Columbia Memorial Nursing School in Hudson, she worked at several local healthcare facilities as a licensed practical nurse before entering into private duty.
She was a longtime member of the Saugerties Methodist Church. She had several interests, first and foremost was always her family.
Surviving are her husband of 40 years, James Barber; daughter Mara Barber of Vermont, sons David and his wife Tina of Saugerties, George and his wife Jill of Kingston and Paul and his wife Barbara of Spokane, WA; sister, Deanna Gilmore of Saugerties; beloved grandchildren David Jr., Megan, Miranda and Amy. She will also be remembered by several nieces, nephews, extended family members and many close friends.
A service to celebrate the life of Leona will held on Friday, May 21, 2004 at 11 a.m. at the Seamon-Wilsey Funeral Home, corner of John and Lafayette Streets in Saugerties, with the Rev. Duane Buddle of the Saugerties United Methodist Church as celebrant.
Friends will be received at the funeral home on Wednesday, May 19 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Thursday, May 20 form 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
19 May 2004
LOU ETHEL BROOKS
Native of Catskill
CATSKILL - Lou Ethel Brooks, 86, a native Catskillian, died Monday, Jan. 26, 2004 at Long Term Care in Catskill where she had resided since Sept. 16, 2002.
Miss Brooks was born in Catskill on May 15, 1917 to the late John C. and Karolyn Hunter Brooks.
She attended Irving School, graduated from Catskill High School in 1935 and was employed as domestic help in private homes. Upon her mother’s death in 1990, she became a resident of the Sarah Philip Home on New Street until its closing.
Surviving are her aunt, Florence Hunter of Catskill. She was predeceased by two uncles, Herbert and Ralph Hunter.
A committal service will be held on Thursday, May 20 at 1 p.m. at the village cemetery on Thompson Street with Rev. Lee Hardgrove, Pastor of the united Methodist Church officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to the United Methodist Church on Woodland Avenue in Catskill.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Millspaugh Camerato Funeral Home, 139 Jefferson Heights in Catskill.
19 May 2004, 20 May, 2004
AMY MARAFIOTI
County Court law librarian
CATSKILL - Amida M. “Amy” Marafioti, 78, passed away on Monday, May 17 at her residence in the presence of her loving family after a long courageous battle with cancer.
Mrs. Marafioti was born on June 20, 1925 in Searight, PA, to the late Salvatore and Assunta Benadetti Lappa.
She graduated from Newtown High School in Queens in 1943 and was employed as a law librarian at Columbia University Law School where she attended classes. In 1953, she moved to Catskill and married Joseph J. Marafioti Sr. on Oct. 23, 1954. She was a law librarian at the Chase Memorial Law Library in the Catskill Court House from 1973 to her retirement in 1989. Following retirement, she enjoyed traveling with her family, especially to Cape Cod. She excelled at working crossword puzzles and being a loving, generous grandmother. She was a devoted, faithful parishioner of St. Patrick’s R.C. Church and had been an active member of the Mother’s Club.
Mrs. Marafioti is survived by her husband of 49 years, Joseph J. Marafioti, Sr. of Catskill and their three children: Mrs. Edward (Daria) Kostek of Schenectady, Joseph J. Marafioti, Jr. of Coxsackie, and Lisa Marafioti of Albany; daughter-in-law Kelly Marafioti of Coxsackie; four grandchildren: Jessica Kostek of Schenectady and Elizabeth, Meghan and Erin Marafioti of Coxsackie; a sister, Dolly Cavicchioni of Catskill; a brother, Stanley Lappa of Catskill; as well as several nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by an infant son, James Marafioti, on July 10, 1956 and a sister Mary Laurita in 1989.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, May 21 at 9:30 a.m. in St. Patrick’s R.C. Church with Rev. John J. Murphy, Pastor officiating. Internment will follow in St. Patrick’s Cemetery. Friends and relatives are invited to call at the Millspaugh Camerato Funeral Home at 139 Jefferson Heights in Catskill on Thursday, May 20 from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Cavell Cancer Treatment Program at 69 Prospect Ave. in Hudson, NY 12534.
19 May 2004. 20 May, 2004
LUCILLE M. WALDRON
Laundry employee
COXSACKIE – Lucille M. Waldron, 73, died May 16, 2004 at the Albany Memorial Hospital after a long illness.
She was born in Glens Falls on March 15, 1931 and was the daughter of the late William and Lillian (Farrell) Jolley.
She was a member of the St. Mary’s Church of Coxsackie and a prior employee of the Water Falls Laundry in Catskill.
She was predeceased by her husband James Waldron of Earlton.
She is survived by her sons, David and Stanley Waldron of Hudson, and Michael Waldron of TX; daughters, Karen Waldron of Hudson and Tina Hughes of Schenectady; brothers, Herbert Jolley of Coxsackie and William Jolley of Kerhonksen; grandchildren Laura, Jacob, Kristopher, Krisma and Eric.
Relatives and friends are cordially invited to attend calling hours at the W.C. Brady’s Sons Inc. Funeral Home, 97 Mansion St. in Coxsackie, on Friday, May 21, 2004 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Private cremation will follow at the Albany Rural Crematorium in Menands.
20 May 2004
ELFRIEDE SCHAPOEHLER
Loved to garden
ROUND TOP – Elfriede Schapoehler, 88, of Round Top died Wednesday, May 19, 2004 at the Eden Park Health Care Center, Catskill, after a long illness.
Born in Bremerhaven, Germany Sept. 5, 1915, she was the daughter of the late Heinrich and Lina (Dembeck) Gerdes.
Mrs. Schapoehler has been an area resident for 30 years, a member of the Happy Homemakers, the Steuben Society, and also a member of the Round Top Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary. She loved to garden, paint and sew.
Survivors include two daughters, Margaret Andersen of Palenville, and Linda Belcher of Port Jervis, NY; four grandchildren, Brenda Leek, Lisa Bathgate, George Belcher, and Kathleen Possemato; six great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.
She is predeceased by her parents and two husbands, Henrich Rehmke and Henrich Schapoehler.
Calling hours are Saturday 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Richards Funeral Home, Bross St., Cairo.
Funeral services will take place on Saturday 1 p.m. at the funeral home with the Rev. Harrison Putnam officiating.
Internment will follow in the family plot of the Round Top Cemetery, Round Top.
20 May 2004
PHILIP R. SWEENEY
Heating contractor
SAUGERTIES – Philip R. Sweeney, 80, of Washington Avenue Extension, died Sunday, May 16, 2004 at the Kingston City Hospital after a brief illness.
Born June 20, 1923, in Kingston, he was the son of the late Joseph and Eleanor Ball Sweeney.
A lifetime are resident, he was a veteran of World War II where he served in the United States Army. He was a licensed plumbing and heating contractor for over 27 years in the town of Saugerties where he owned and operated Philip R. Sweeney Plumbing and Heating. He was an active parishioner of St. Mary of the Snow RC Church in Saugerties and a former member of the Parish Council. He was a past Grand Knight of the Saugerties Council #4536 Knights of Columbus and a past Faithful Navigator of the Fourth Degree. He was a member of the Village of Saugerties Plumbing Board, the Saugerties American Legion Post #72, and the Saugerties Veterans of Foreign Wars #5034.
Survivors include his wife, the former Eva Ostoyic, with whom he recently celebrated his 55th wedding anniversary; brother John V. Sweeney of Kingston; several nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by a sister, Teresa Peters; and three brothers, Arthur, Edwards, and Richard Sweeney.
His funeral procession will form 11:30 a.m. Thursday at the Seamon-Wilsey Funeral Home, Inc., corner of John & Lafayette Streets thence to St. Mary of the Snow where at 12 noon a Mass of Christian Burial will be offered.
Internment with military honors by the Saugerties American Legion Post 72.
22 May 2004
LOUISE BENIGNO
Wife and businesswoman
GREENVILLE – Louise Shirley Benigno, 72, formerly of Greenville, died peacefully at the home of her daughter, Lisa, in Pembroke Pines, FL, on May 20, 2004.
She was the wife of the late Santo (Sandy) Benigno, daughter of Mario and Rose Muccio, and companion to Al Mileti.
She is survived by her daughter Lisa Newmark, son-in-law Stephen, their children Douglas and Lauren; son Anthony Benigno, daughter-in-law Gisele, their children Alexander, Emilie, and Danielle; daughter Amy Fothergill, son-in-law Alan, their child Santo; and sister Lorraine Alonge and her husband Frank.
Louise was a wonderful mother and prominent member of the community as well as St. John the Baptist Church in Greenville, NY, where she lived since 1973. She was a businesswoman who helped her husband run Concord Galleries for over 30 years.
Louise’s kindness was felt by all who knew her. Her home and table were the center of her life that was lovingly shared with her family and friends. She was very thankful for those that surrounded her, especially her treasured grandchildren.
A viewing will be held on Sunday, May 23, at Cunningham Funeral Home in Greenville, from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m.
Services will be held on Monday, May 24, 11 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Church. Internment will follow in the Greenville Cemetery.
22 May 2004
WILLIAM WILDERMANN
Opera singer
PRATTSVILLE – William Karl Wildermann died May 16, 2004 after a short stay at Robinson Terrace Nursing Home in Stamford, NY.
Music was his life, opera was his passion.
Bill, as he was known, had a life-long journey in the opera world. Starting at Radio City Music Hall, Bill was employed at Statt’s Theatre in Stutgart, Germany for many years as well as being part of the Metropolitan Opera in New York City and the New York City Opera.
Bill’s operatic career included performances at Carnegie Hall (after much practice, he would say) and performing for the Queen of England at Convent Garden. Performances in Israel, Argentina, the Washington Kennedy Center, Santa Fe Opera and the Pittsburgh Opera are among just a few of the remarkable stops on Bill’s memorial journey.
Prattsville has been his home for 35 years. Bill loved to sit on the front porch of his home here in the Catskills and with a grand sweeping wave of his arm say, “this is all mine”. The view is spectacular and reminded him of Germany where it all started on Dec. 2, 1919.
A member of the Presbyterian Church in Jewett and the German American Club of the Northern Catskills, Bill overwhelmed everyone with his gift of song and his powerful bass baritone voice.
For the last three years, “His Ruth” was at his side at all times. They shared much joy together and she will miss him terribly, as will we all.
Bill was a World War II veteran and USO performer. He is survived by his son Rudy; daughter-in-law Jill’ two grandchildren, Leigh and Frank and oh yes, “Grace” his great-granddaughter; two nephews, Robert and Kenneth and a niece Karen.
As he said to many after meeting everyone, “Ciao” (so long). Goodbye Bill, or as his lifelong friends in Germany call him, Willie “Auf Wiedersehen”.
“Sing praise to the Lord for what He has made was good”. So long dad!
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 12, 2004 at the Presbyterian Church in Jewett at 10 a.m. Please stay and share fellowship and refreshments after. All are welcome. Call (201) 652-0673 for information.
Funeral arrangements entrusted to Decker Funeral Home, Windham, NY.
24 May 2004, 25 May, 2004
EDWIN G. MUTKE
World War II veteran
FREEHOLD – Edwin G. Mutke, 79, of Freehold, formerly of Wilson Park, Long Island, died suddenly on May 22, 2004 at Columbia Memorial Hospital in Hudson.
He was born in New York City on Sept. 1, 1924, the son of the late Joseph and Helen (Boretis) Mutke.
Mr. Mutke served in the US Army during World War II and received the American Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, World War II Victory Medal and the European African Middle Eastern Service Medal.
He retired from UNISYS in Lake Success, NY, as a supervisor. He was also a life member of the Albertson Post #5253 VFW. He loved working outside and will be remembered as a faithful Met fan.
Surviving are his wife, Rose (Heimbaurer) Mutke, a daughter, Joanne Albert and her husband Keith of Stony Point, NY and a grandson, Gregory Albert.
Calling hours will be 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Monday at the Cunningham Funeral Home, 4898 State Route 81, Greenville.
Funeral service will be held at 9 a.m. on Tuesday at the funeral home. Internment will be in the Greenville Cemetery.
25 May 2004
ETHEL POPLOCK GOLDSCHLAG
Graveside services
CATSKILL – Graveside services will take place for Ethel Poplock Goldschlag, 95, on May 27 at the temple Israel Cemetery, Jefferson Heights in Catskill.
Mrs. Goldschlag was a long time resident of Catskill and a resident of Gulfport, FL. She died Dec. 2, 2003 at the Isidora Assisted Living Facility, Spring Hill, FL.
She was a retired business owner of Valley Casuals in Kingston and the Smart Shop in Catskill. She was a charter member of the Elks Auxiliary, Catskill, and a member of Temple Israel in Catskill.
Survivors include two sons, Eugene of Spring Hill, FL, and Arnold of Scottsdale, AZ; a brother Albert Poplock of Catskill; five grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandson.
Private cremation was held at the Merritt Funeral Home in Spring Hill.
Graveside arrangements are under the direction of the Traver & McCurry Funeral Home, Jefferson Heights, Catskill.
The day of the graveside service, everyone is asked to meet at the cemetery.
27 May 2004
JAMES CASEY
US Air Force
ALBANY – James Casey, 47, of Austerlits, NY, died Tuesday, May 25, 2004 at Albany Medical Center.
Born on May 29, 1956 in Syracuse, NY, he was the son of Patrick and the late Marlene (Grover) Casey.
Mr. Casey served in the United States Air Force. He was employed by KAZ in Hudson and by Crellin Morris Plastics in Chatham.
He is survived by his father, Patrick Casey of Spencertown, NY; sister Kelly Anne Casey and brothers Mark T. and David A. Casey; as well as several nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his mother Marlene (Grover) Casey and siblings Dawn Marie Mohr and Brian Patrick Casey.
There will be no calling hours and private cremation will take place at Albany Rural Crematory in Menands.
Arrangements by French, Gifford and Preiter Funeral Home in Chatham.
27 May 2004
GORDON L. CORNELL
Former truck driver
PRATTSVILLE – Gordon L. “Foxy” Cornell, 64, died at home on May 25, 2004.
Born on June 2, 1939 in Andes, NY, he was the son of Wilbur Cornell and Evelyn Reynolds.
He was married on April 30, 1960 to Emma (LaGasse) Cornell.
He was a truck driver for J A Carman Trucking for 41 years until his retirement on March 1, 1999.
For 45 years he was a fireman and a past chief of the Prattsville Fire Company and at the time of his death, he was a fire commissioner.
Mr. Cornell was a mason, belonging to the Oasis Lodge in Prattsville and he was also a past patron of the Eastern Star Chapter.
He enjoyed spending time with his family, friends and grandchildren. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and will always be remembered for his smile.
He is survived by his children, Tracy Lynne, her husband James Quick and their children Justin Stuart and Lucas Gordon Howard; Gordon Shawn Cornell, his wife Crystal Marie and their children PFC Michael S Cornell, Rachel Lynn (US Navy), Heather Elaine and Timothy (Joe) Cornell; Master Sgt. Todd Carl, his wife Lisa and their children Nicholas Todd, Mattia Emma and Adrianna Sarah; Kelly Elaine Hartzel and First Sergeant Michael Jon; Holly-Anne Georgia Bresee and David Nelson; brother of Donald Cornell, Marjorie Dames, Jo Ann Haskin, Robert and Richard Bellinger. Several nieces and nephews also survive.
He was predeceased by his parents, Wilbur Cornell and Evelyn Cornell Bellinger; step-father Clifton Bellinger; sister Joan Greeley; nephew Wayne Greeley and “little grandma” Reynolds Brownell.
Viewing will be from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, May 28, 2004 at the Decker Funeral Home in Windham.
Services will be at 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 29 at the Reformed Dutch Church of Prattsville with the Rev. Dianna Smith officiating.
Internment will follow at the Fairlawn Cemetery in Prattsville.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the Schoharie County Hospice or the American Cancer Society.
27 May 2004
JOSEPH A MERLINO SR.
Area restaurant cook
CATSKILL – Joseph A. Merlino Sr., 56, died Friday, May 21, 2004, at Columbia Memorial Hospital as a result of a recent automobile accident.
Born in Brooklyn July 23, 1947, he was the son of the late Frank Merlino and Mary Celentano Merlino.
Mr. Merlino attended schools in Brooklyn. He was employed in area restaurants as a cook.
Survivors include his mother, Mary Merlino of Staten Island; two children, Joseph A. Merlino Jr. and Samantha Merlino of Coxsackie; step-son, Jesse Staley; former wife, Mitzi Merlino; sister, Frances Fulbrook of Staten Island; and nephews Michael and Frank Fulbrook of Staten Island.
Calling hours will be held in Staten Island and a memorial service will be held in Greene County.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family for distribution to charities that Mr. Merlino supported.
27 May 2004
JESSE O. YAGER
Maytag Appliance Store owner
HUDSON – Jesse Oliver Yager, 71, a resident of the Firemen’s Home and formerly of Catskill, died Tuesday, May 25, 2004 at Columbia Memorial Hospital.
Born Nov. 16, 1932 in Catskill, he was the son of the late Jesse Nathan Yager and Anna (Bieg) Yager.
Jesse was the owner and operator of the Maytag Appliance Store owner in Catskill before retiring. He was a member of the Kiskatom Fire Department for over 36 years.
Surviving are his wife, Bessie Marie (Bush) Yager of Moss Point, MS; daughters Elizabeth Yager of Santa Rosa, CA and Eileen Ioffredo of Ocean Springs, MS; cousins Carolyn and Tom Jones of Catskill.
Calling hours are being held today (Thursday) from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Firemen’s Home Chapel, 125 Harry Howard Avenue in Hudson.
Services will be held at 1 p.m. today in the chapel with Deacon Charles O’Neil officiating.
Arrangements by the Bates & Anderson – Redmond & Keeler Funeral Home in Hudson.
28 May 2004
HERMAN J. SAMEISKY IX
US Navy veteran
COXSACKIE – Herman J. Sameisky IX, 71, died Wednesday, May 26, 2004 at the Community Hospice of Columbia Memorial Hospital in Hudson, NY.
Mr. Sameisky was born in Manhattan, NY on March 25, 1933, son of the late Ellen (Brady) and Herman J. Sameisky VIII.
He was married on Sept. 11, 1952 in St. Mary’s Church, Bronx, NY to the Norma (Collado) Sameisky, who survives at home.
Herman served his country during the Korean conflict in the United States Navy from 1951 to 1955 and continued in the United States Naval Reserve until 1959.
He had been employed as a residential manager and retired from the Rudin Management Company of New York, NY. He and his wife have been residents of Coxsackie since 1985, moving here from Manhattan.
He was an avid fisherman and hunter and enjoyed boating and archery. He also enjoyed raising and showing award-winning pigeons. He was a member of the Brooklyn Yacht Club.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by their children, Susan and her husband Frank Eichele and Herman J. Samiesky X and his wife Joanne, both of Monroe, NY, and son Michael J. Samiesky of Coxsackie; sisters Helen Saladini of Somerset, NJ, Gertrude Fay of New City, NY and Kathleen McGinn of Ronconcoma, NY; grandchildren Jessica, Francis, Daniel, Laura and Samantha Eichele and Jillian, Alison, Stephanie, and Herman Sameisky XI.
Funeral services will be conducted at the Sopris Funeral Home, Inc., 11877 Route 9W in Coxsackie at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 29, 2004 with the Rev. Fr. John Moyna officiating.
Internment will be at the convenience of the family.
The family suggests donations in Herman’s name may be made to the Coxsackie Rescue Squad, Coxsackie, NY or to the Community Hospice of Columbia Greene, 47 Liberty Street, Catskill, NY 12414.
29 May 2004
RACHAEL AWAND
Rachael Awand, 23, of Prescott, AZ, formerly of Lanesville,
died on May 27, 2004 at her residence.
Born on Oct. 27, 1980 in New Hyde Park, L. I., she was the
daughter of Sheldon and Robyn Cohen Awand.
She is survived by her parents; two grandparents; her sister, Samantha Awand of Lanesville; and an aunt and uncle.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday, June 1 at 11 a.m. at the Aston-Basagic Funeral Home, 7742 Main Street in Hunter. Internment will follow in the Kol Ansche Israel Cemetery in South Jewett. Friends and relatives may call at the funeral home on Monday, May 31 from 7 to 9 p.m.
29 May 2004
SALVATORE L. CALO
Pastry shop owner
CAIRO – Salvatore L. Calo, 88, of Fairground Estates, died May 27, 2004 at his residence after a long illness.
He was born in the Bronx, NY on June 10, 1915 and was the son of the late Salvatore and Josephine (Patricola) Calo.
Mr. Calo has been an area resident for over 10 years. He was a communicant of the Sacred Heart Church of Cairo, loved to work crossword puzzles and play all sports.
Prior to his retirement, he owned and operated the Calo Pastry Shop in Mt. Vernon, NY.
He is survived by his wife of 57 years Johanna (Scalice) Calo of Cairo; son Frank of Atlanta; daughter Josephine Sala of Round Top; grandchildren Eva, Rocco, Jenifer, Nicholas, Jostin and Jovani; as well as great-grandchildren Jonathan and Christopher.
Relatives and friends are cordially invited to attend calling hours at the Richards Funeral Home, Bross Street in Caiio, on Monday, May 31, 2004 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Mass of the Christian Burial will take place on Tuesday, June 1 at 9 a.m. at the Sacred Heart Church of Cairo, with the Rev. Fr. J. Nunan, Pastor of the Sacred Heart Church of Cairo, as celebrant.
Internment will follow in the family plot of the Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in New Rochelle, Westchester County, NY.
29 May 2004
MARVIN B. RUBINGER
Former mayor
TANNERSVILLE – Marvin B. Rubinger, 68, died on May 27, 2004 after a short battle with cancer.
Born in Brooklyn, NY, he was the son of Mildred and Jack Rubinger. His family moved to Tannersville in 1946.
Marvin attended Hunter-Tannersville Central and graduated in 1954. He joined the armed services and served in the Korean War from 1955 to 1957. He later attended St. Lawrence University in Canton, NY and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1961.
Marvin returned to Tannersville and was employed by Rubinger & Sons, Inc. Ever an entrepreneur, the business evolved from selling tires to a camera shop and Laundromat, to a major distributorship of accessories to ski and sport shops across the country.
Marvin was also civic minded. He was a member of the Republican Party and held many positions, including Mayor and Chief of Police of Tannersville, Committeeman of Greene County and Liquor Board Commissioner. He was also a member of the Lion’s Club and the Masons.
Marvin will always be remembered for his love of life, his loyalty and his generosity.
He is survived by his son, Mark Rubinger of Tannersville; his daughter Marcy Dolan and her husband Ted; two grandchildren of Truckee, CA; a brother Howard Rubinger; his wife DeAnna; and two nieces, Nancy Bruno and Ami Goodman of Clifton Park.
Respects can be paid on Sunday, May 30 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Aston-Basagic Funeral Home in Hunter. Funeral services will be held Monday, May 31 at noon.
Donations in Marvin’s memory can be made to Hospice of Truckee, Tahoe Forest Hospital, PO Box 759, Truckee, CA 96160.
30 May 2004
FLOYD BROWN
WW II veteran
GREENVILLE – Floyd Brown of Mesa, AZ, formerly of Greenville, died May 27, 2004 in Mesa.
Born in Greenville on Sept. 30, 1919, he was the son of Floyd and Ethel (Stafford) Brown.
Floyd was a retired teamster. He served his country in WW II from May 1941 to October 1945 with the 977th Field Artillery Battalion. During his deployment, he fought in the Central Europe, Naples-Foggir, Rhineland-Rome Arno and Southern France campaigns.
He was a loving father and grandfather.
Survivors include his wife, Millicent (Collins) Brown of Mesa, AZ; two daughters, Donna Brown of Vermont and Jill Hering and her husband Richard of Mesa; two grandchildren, Richard Hering III and Tabitha Hering, both of Mesa; a sister Alta Dugan of Greenville; and many nieces and nephews.
Internment will be in the Catskill Rural Cemetery at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, those who wish may contribute to Hospice of the Valley, 777 W. Southern #301, Mesa, AZ 852110.
Arrangements are under the direction of Meldrum Mortuary of Mesa, AZ.
30 May 2004, May 31, 2004
MARGIE E. HAVERLY
Loving mother and friend
GREENVILLE – Margie E. Haverly, 81, passed away May 28, 2004 at St. Peter’s Hospice Inn in Albany.
Born in Ravena on Sept. 18, 1922, she was the daughter of the late Newton and Kathleen (VanAlstyne) Spoor.
She was employed as office manager of A.J. Britt of Albany. Margie was a former member of the Maranatha Valley Chapter O.E.S. and a member of the Greenville American Legion Post #291 Ladies Aux. An avid golfer, she also enjoyed playing the piano and will be remembered by her family and friends as a loving mother, grandmother and friend.
Margie was predeceased by her beloved husband, Edwin B. “Ed” Haverly.
Surviving are her three sons, Edwin Haverly and his wife Deborah of Newport News, VA, Michael Haverly and his wife Dee of Virginia Beach, VA, and Jeffrey Haverly and his wife Cindy of Brownsburg, IN; three daughters, Mary Haverly of Oak Hill, Patricia Haverly and her fiancé Richard Kurtz of Greenville and Susan Haverly of Greenville; 15 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; a brother, George Spoor and his wife Sally of Ravena; and a very special and dear friend, Marilynn McAneny.
Funeral service will be held Tuesday, June 1 at 11 a.m. at the Cunningham Funeral Home, 4898 SR 81, Greenville. Friends may call at the funeral home on Monday, May 31 from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. The Greenville American Legion Post #291 Ladies Aux. will conduct services at the funeral home on Monday at 7:30 p.m. Internment will be in the Chestnut Lawn Cemetery.
Those who wish may contribute in Margie’s memory to the Westerlo Rescue Squad, Inc. or to the Alzheimer’s Association. Envelopes are available at the funeral home.
31 May 2004
BENEDETTO N. CAMBONE
K of C No 6489 member
CAIRO – Benedetto N. Cambone, 80, of Hervey Street, Cornwallville, died at his home May 30, 2004 after a long illness.
He was born in the Bronx on March 24, 1924, and was the son of the late Antonio and Maria Cambone.
Mass of the Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday, June 3, 2004, at Our Lady of Knock Shrine, East Durham. The Rev J. Nunan, pastor, will be the celebrant.
Internment will follow in the family plot of St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Catskill.
Mr. Benedetto had been an area resident of Cornwallville since 1980. He was also a communicant of Our Lady of Knock Shrine, a member of the Knights of Columbus 6439 of East Durham, a member of the Greenville Irish American Club, a member of Union Local 174 of New York City, and a member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians.
He is survived by his devoted wife of almost 28 years, Kathleen (English) Cambone of Cornwallville; two loving daughters, Carol Cambone of Fremont, CA and Maureen Woods of Otisville; two loving sons, Daniel Cambone of Mamaroneck and Kevin Roy of the Bronx; a caring brother, Anthony Cambone of Cape Cod, MA; a caring sister, Rose Lopiano of Copake, L.I.; seven cherished grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends are cordially invited to the calling hours at the Richards Funeral Home, 383 Bross St., Cairo on Wednesday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. The Knights of Columbus will conduct services Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. at the funeral home.
Contributions in his memory may be made to the Community Hospice, 37 Liberty St., Catskill, NY 12414 or the American Cancer Society, 260 Osborne Road, Albany, NY 12211.
For your convenience, envelopes may be obtained at the funeral home.
31 May 2004
WILLIAM GRIFFITHS
Arrangements incomplete
William Griffiths, 76, of Route 81, Coxsackie, a former resident of Eden Park Nursing Home, Catskill, died May 29, 2004 at Columbia Memorial Hospital, Hudson, after a long illness.
Calling hours will be Wednesday, June 2, 2004, at the W. C. Brady’s Sons Inc. Funeral Home, 97 Mansion St., Coxsackie.
Funeral services will be Wednesday at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with the Rev. Wendy Steed, pastor of the Coxsackie United Methodist Church, officiating.
Internment will be in the family plot of the Riverside Cemetery.
Complete obituary will follow.