Obituaries from the
Greenville Local
January 2008
Obituaries provided by Sylvia Hasenkopf. Transcribed by Diana Schnettler
January 3, 2008
WOLFGANG BAUER
Chicken farmer/Beekeeper
Wolfgang Frederick Bauer, 95, Climax, died peacefully at home on Sunday, December 23, 2007.
Born Sept. 6, 1912 in Otterbach, Germany, he was the son of the late Richard and Olga (Christman) Bauer.
He graduated from the Lambertsmueller School in Germany.
Wolfgang immigrated to the United States in 1924, locating in Coxsackie.
He married Jessie May Kendall on Jan. 27, 1937 in New Baltimore.
Mrs. Bauer survives at home.
Mr. Bauer worked at the former American Valve in Coxsackie until a tragic accident in 1939 left him with one arm.
Determined to provide for his family, Wolf began a career in chicken farming and beekeeping.
Today his Twin Spruce Apiaries is well known and continues under family ownership.
While in Germany, Wolfgang played soccer for the Otterbacher Turnverein German team.
He was a member and former secretary of the Steuben Society, a founding member of the Steuben Glee Club, serving as president, a member of the Greene County Historical Society and a member of the Coxsackie-Athens Rotary Club.
In addition to Jessie, his wife of 70 years, he is survived by their children, Walter W. Bauer and Janet A. Keinath, both of West Coxsackie; a brother, Herman Bauer of Coxsackie; four grandchildren, Steven Keinath, Mark Keinath, Sheri Mayorga and Walter Bauer; and sever great-grandchildren, Mallory, Steven, Melissa, Katlin and Gregory Keinath, Juan Carlos and Nicholas Mayorga.
He was predeceased by his siblings, Ernestine Schnare, Madeline Colbourne, Wilhelmina Minshell, Ruth Harter and Walter Bauer.
A memorial service honoring Wolf’s life will be held at a later date.
There will be no calling hours.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of the Sopris-Murray Funeral Home, Greenville.
January 3, 2008
ADAM GIZA
Adam Giza, 55, of Tannersville died on Dec. 16, 2007 at his residence.
He was born Sept. 6, 1952 in Lezajsk, Poland, the son of Michal and Anna Olechny Giza.
Survivors include his wife Irena and mother Anna, stepdaughter Elizabeth Wozny and family, two sisters, Natalie and Halina, several nieces and nephews in Poland and Germany, and many friends.
Friends and relatives are invited to call at the Aston-Basagic Funeral Home, 7742 Main Street, Hunter, Thursday, Jan. 3, 2007 from 7-9 p.m.
A Mass of Christian Burial will follow on Friday, Jan. 4 at 11 a.m. at the Immaculate Conception Church, Haines Falls.
Rev. Anthony Motta will be the celebrant.
Interment will follow in the St. Francis de Sales Cemetery in Elka Park.
January 3, 2008
ROSEMARY MCDONNELL
Rosemary McDonnell, 71, of Durham, New York passed away at the home of her daughter in Poughkeepsie, New York on December 23, 2007.
She was born in County Meath, Ireland on April 27, 1936, daughter of the late James and Annie (Rehill) Finnegan.
An active lady, she enjoyed playing golf, was a doll collector and loved to garden and knit.
Active in the community, she was a member of the Ancient Order of the Hibernians, the Michael J. Quill Irish Cultural & Sports Centre and the Knights of Columbus, Our Lady of Knock Council, Ladies Auxiliary.
She will be remembered as a loving wife and grandmother and a friend to many.
Surviving are her husband, Francis “Frank” McDonnell; two sons, Jim McDonnell (Denise), Tom McDonnell; two daughters, Mary Amendola (Victor), Jacqueline Reed (Patrick); nine grandchildren, also four sisters and four brothers.
Funeral service was Thursday at the Cunningham Funeral Home, 4898 SR 81, Greenville, New York, with a Mass of Christian Burial at Our Lady of Knock Shrine, East Durham, New York.
Those who desire may contribute in her memory to American Cancer Research.
January 3, 2008
GLORIA C. VASTA
Home Health Aide
Gloria C. Vasta, 80, of Climax, passed away at Columbia Memorial Hospital in Hudson on Dec. 23, 2007.
She was born on Aug. 10, 1927 in Hempstead and was the daughter of the late John and Edna (Fisher) Freeth.
Gloria was employed as a Home Health Aide in Catskill.
A 50-year resident of the area, she was a member of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, Catskill.
She was a member of the American Legion Women’s Auxiliary, Athens, a member of the Senior Citizens of Catskill and she loved to play cards.
She loved flowers and vegetable gardening.
She was a member of the Catskill Bowling League.
Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her first husband, William M. Lutes, and her son, Gerald Lutes, also her daughter, Gail Columbe and daughter Valerie Stewart.
Survivors include her husband, Vincent J. Vasta of Climax; sons John (Celine) Lutes of Cairo, William, Jr. (Cathy) Lutes of Catskill; stepsons Joel (Abie) Vasta of Delmar; Steven Vasta of Coxsackie; daughters Christine Labuda of Climax, Mrs. John (Charlene) Hull of Oak Hill, step-daughter Maria (Chickie) Pearson of Orland[o], Florida; sister Mrs. Raymond (Carole) Seager of Athens, 21 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
Funeral services were held on Friday, Dec. 28 with Father David Sutcliffe officiating.
Interment followed in the family plot in Catskill Town Cemetery.
Contributions in her memory may be made to American Cancer Society, 6725 Lyons Street, PO Box 7, East Syracuse, N.Y. 13057.
January 10, 2008
MARTIN E. BLAKE
Railroad worker
Martin E. Blake, 81, of Hannacroix, passed away Tuesday, December 25, 2007 after a long illness.
Martin was born in Buffalo and moved around for his work with the railroad.
He also lived in Syracuse, Geneva and Watertown before moving here to work in Selkirk about 25 years ago.
He retired from Conrail in 1992 after 44 years of service.
Martin was a Navy veteran serving during WWII.
Martin was an avid hockey and Buffalo Bills fan.
Survivors include his wife of 33 years, Mary Blake of Hannacroix; children, Martin Blake of Syracuse, Christopher Blake of New Hampshire, Patrick Blake and Shawn Blake, both of Alden, New York; stepdaughter, Carol deClercq of Ravena; and stepsons, Frank Hopper of Schenectady and John Hopper of Sackets Harbor, New York; 13 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.
Two grandchildren predeceased Martin.
All services were private at the convenience of the family.
Donations in memory of Martin may be made to the American Cancer Society.
Funeral arrangements were made under the direction of the Babcock Funeral Home, Ravena.
January 10, 2008
MARGARET B. DEATRICK
Margaret B. Deatrick, 87, of Greenville, South Carolina, married to the late Robert S. Deatrick for 62 years, passed away at the Brushy Creek Cottages in Greer, South Carolina on December 20, 2007.
Mrs. Deatrick formerly resided at The Gardens at Eastside in Greenville, South Carolina.
Born in New York City on April 29, 1920, daughter of the late Walter D. and Elizabeth (Deagan) Butterworth.
The Deatricks were residents of Dumont, New Jersey or 35 years and in their retirement years divided their time between Medusa, New York and Naples, Florida.
Mrs. Deatrick became a resident of Greenville, South Carolina in 2004 and was a parishioner at St. Mary Magdalene Church in Simpsonville, South Carolina.
She is survived by her children, Nancy D. LaRocca (John) of Medusa, New York, Marilyn D. Knoblauch (Peter) of Greenville, South Carolina and William C. Deatrick (Kathleen) of Aurora, Illinois; nine grandchildren, Michael Knoblauch (B.J.) of Georgia, Patricia Knoblauch, Scott Knoblauch, David Knoblauch (Lori) all of South Carolina, Mark LaRocca (Nina), Elizabeth Whiteman (Robert) of New York, Christine Markey (Evan), and John Deatrick of California and Meaghan Deatrick of Illinois; great-grandchildren, John, Katie and Matthew Knoblauch, Sophie and Ellie Whiteman, Kibo and Kyesa LaRocca, Rachel, Cole and Hannah Knoblauch; also a sister, Mildred Mercadante, and brother, Walter D. Butterworth.
She was predeceased by a sister, Lillian Schmidt.
Margaret was beloved by her immediate family, a large extended family and many friends.
There will be a Mass of Christian Burial followed by interment in the Medusa Cemetery in the early spring of 2008.
Those who desire may contribute in her memory to the American Cancer Society, 260 Osborne Road, Loudonville, NY 12211.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.thomasmcafee.com.
Arrangement by the A.J. Cunningham Funeral Homes, Inc., Greenville, NY.
January 10, 2008
VINCENT C. DOWD
NYC Transit Authority foreman/instructor
Vincent C. Dowd, 89, of Fort Pierce, Florida, passed away on December 30, 2007.
He was born in County Leitrim, Ireland on September 15, 1918.
He had been a resident of Fort Pierce for 12 years moving from Greenville, New York.
He had retired from the New York City Transit Authority where he had been a foreman/instructor.
He was a member of the Greenville Irish American Club, the Knights of Columbus, Our Lady of Knock Council in East Durham, New York and Saint Mark’s Catholic Church.
He was predeceased by his first wife Beatrice and a daughter, Mary Dowd.
Surviving are his wife, Margaret Dowd of Fort Pierce; two sons, Vincent Dowd of Annapolis, Maryland, John Dowd of Woodbridge, Virginia; seven stepchildren, Rose Leahy of New York City, Michael Horan of New York City, John Horan of West Haven, Connecticut, Maureen Riordan of Monroe, New York, Edward Horan of Chester, New York, Theresa Paschenko of Monroe, New York, and Susan Horan of Cairo, New York; also 20 grandchildren.
Service was Friday from Cunningham Funeral Home, 4898 SR 81, Greenville, New York with Mass of Christian Burial at St. John the Baptist Church.
Friends called at the funeral home on Thursday.
The Knights of Columbus conducted a service at the funeral home on Thursday.
Interment was in Greenville Cemetery.
January 10, 2008
HAROLD P. HENDERSON, SR.
Truck driver
Harold P. Henderson, Sr., 77 years, of East Durham, NY passed away on Dec. 27, 2007 at the Stratton VA Medical Center in Albany, NY.
He was born in Queens, NY on Dec. 13, 1930, son of the late Arthur and Ruth (Lambrechts) Henderson.
Harold served his country in the US Air Force during the Korean War.
He was a Truck Driver and drove for various trucking companies, one of which was Ryder Trucking in Selkirk, NY.
He was an excellent mechanic as well.
Harold was a member of the Catskill Elks Club.
He was community minded and took care of his neighbors and their needs.
He enjoyed traveling and was known for his organizational skills.
Surviving are his wife Mary (Birk) Henderson of East Durham, NY, his three sons, Harold P. Henderson, Jr. and his wife Linda of Greenville, NY, Arthur F. Henderson and his wife Shirley of Plainfield, CT and Patrick J. Henderson and his wife Patricia of Glenville, NY, nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, four brothers, Arthur, Frederick, George and Paul Henderson, two sisters, Ruth Cawley and Violet Statham and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were Dec. 31, 200[7] at the Cunningham Funeral Home, 4898 SR 81, Greenville, NY.
Interment followed in the Cornwallville Cemetery.
January 10, 2008
THERESA C. (REISNER) VANWORMER
Sewing machine operator
Theresa C. (Reisner) VanWormer, age 85 years of West Coxsackie, died January 4, 2008 at hospice at Columbia Memorial Hospital, Hudson.
She was born Nov. 21, 1922 in Austria and was the daughter of the late Frank and Hermina (Rohl) Reisner.
Mass of Christian Burial took place Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2008 at St. Mary’s Church in Coxsackie with Rev. Fr. J. Moyna the Celebrant with a burial in the spring in the family plot of St. Mary’s Cemetery next to her late husband Harry G. VanWormer Sr. who died August 20, 2007.
She is survived by two sons Harry B. and wife Charliene VanWormer Jr. of Hannacroix, and Frank G. and wife Nancy VanWormer of Amsterdam, and an adopted son Keith G. Diehl and wife Ada of Climax; two daughters Mr. Alfred and Frances L. Schwab of Greenville and Mr. Josef and Theresa A. (VanWormer) Schmidt of Earlton; one sister Frances Cornwall of Earlton; eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; many cousins, nieces and nephews.
During her lifetime she was a sewing machine operator at Round Top Knitting, Round Top, NY.
She was a 54 year resident of Greene County, loved bowling and gardening, member of St. Mary’s Alt[a]r Rosary Society and a member of Bethany Village Senior Citizens.
Also she was the best mom in the whole wide world, also a communicant of St. Mary’s Church.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory can be made to the Community Hospice of Columbia/Greene, 47 Liberty St., Catskill, NY 12414.
January 10, 2008
WILLIAM B. WINANS
Carpenter
William “Bill” Winans (94) of East Durham, NY passed away on Dec. 29, 2007 at the Columbia Memorial Hospital in Hudson, NY.
He was born in Preston Hollow, NY on June 4, 1913 son of the late Coral and Cora (Young) Winans.
Bill served his country during World War II, serving in the US Army and being discharged as a S/Sgt.
He was a Platoon Sergeant serving 11 months overseas in France, Germany and Australia and received three (3) Battle Stars and Distinguished Unit Citation.
A life long carpenter, he was well known for his meticulous construction and built many homes in the Albany and Greene County area.
He was a member of the Tri-Town Memorial Post #7729 V.F.W., a former member of the Durham Valley Post #1416 American Legion.
In his early years he enjoyed small game hunting.
He was also an avid reader of history and biographies and known for his love of skiing.
He was predeceased by his wife Irene (Brand) Winans, two brothers, Charles and Alan Winans and three sisters, Vivian Bates, Myra Rivenburg and Jean Sankowski.
Surviving is his long time companion of 24 years, Louise Siegler, a son John Winans of Catskill, NY, a daughter Gail Puliafico (Fred) of Glenville, NY, three grandchildren, Michael, Stephen and Kristen Puliafico, three great-grandchildren, Kaleigh, Alexandria and Christopher Puliafico, also several nieces and nephews.
Funeral service was Thursday 11 a.m. at the Cunningham Funeral Home, Greenville, NY.
Friends were invited to call at the funeral home on Wed. 4 to 8 p.m.
Interment Oak Hill Cemetery.
Those who desire may contribute in his memory to the Hem/One Dept. at the Stratton DVA Medical Center, 113 Holland Ave., Albany, NY 12208.
January 17, 2008
JAMES BRESLIN
Power Maintainer for M.T.A.
James Breslin, 90 years, of Melbourne, Fl (formerly of Greenville, NY), passed away at his home on Jan. 7, 2008.
He was born on June 30, 1917 in Brooklyn, NY, son of the late Michael and Agnes T. (Duffy) Breslin.
James served his country during WWII in the US Army.
Following his time in the service, he was employed as a Power Maintainer for the M.T.A. in New York City until his retirement in June of 1972.
James was predeceased by his wife Mary M. (Kenney) Breslin in November of 1984.
Surviving are his two daughters, Margaret Mary Cameron and Teresa A. Brennan.
A Liturgy of Christian Burial was celebrated on Friday, Jan. 11, 2008 at 11 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Church in Greenville, NY.
Interment followed in the Greenville Cemetery.
There were no calling hours.
January 17, 2008
LAWRENCE C. CHICHESTER
Heavy equipment operator
Lawrence “Larry” C. Chichester, 82, of Greenville, New York, passed away suddenly at his home on January 11, 2008.
He was born in the Town of Broome on June 19, 1925, son of the late Coit and Molly (Lemmon) Chichester.
A member of the Operating Engineers Local 106 in Albany, New York, he was a heavy equipment operator.
Larry enjoyed working and operating his equipment and after his retirement he couldn’t wait to help a friend in need of his expertise.
He was always doing something, “always on the go,” and he enjoyed traveling, woodworking and was actually a very good cook.
A family man, he enjoyed his grandchildren.
Active in the Masonic Lodge, he was a member and Past Master of James Austin Lodge No. 557 F.&A.M., Patron of the Maranatha Valley Chapter No. 38, O.E.S. for 34 years, Present Associate Grand Sentinel of Grand Chapter, Past District Grand Lecturer of O.E.S. Greene-Ulster Dist., Past Dist. Deputy Grand Master of Greene-Ulster Dist. F.&A.M. of the Grand Lodge, State of NY, member of Royal Arch Masons and Past High Priest, was also a Shriner and President of Past Masters Unit of Cyprus Shrine.
Was also a Charter member of the Cairo-Durham Elks Lodge.
Surviving is his wife, Sally (Reed) Chichester; a son, Luman Chichester; four daughters, Robin Crist (Richard), Doreen Hedlund (Nils), Judy Bartholomew and Helen Shunman (Randy); eight grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren; a brother, George Chichester; a sister, Margaret Zaharris; and several nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by four sisters, Ester Dunn, Mary Young, Gladys Cain and Dorothy Chichester; and five brothers, Edison, Arthur, Maynard, Ross and Austin (Barney) Chichester.
Friends called at the Cunningham Funeral Home on Tuesday from 4 to 7:30 p.m.
Masonic service was at 7:30 p.m. followed by a funeral service, followed by a[n] O.E.S. service.
Interment was Wednesday, 11 a.m. in the Medusa Cemetery, (weather conditions permitting).
Those who desire may contribute in his memory to the Shriners Hospital for Children, 516 Carew St., Springfield, MA 01104-2396.
January 17, 2008
JAMES COLLINS
Fireman
James Collins, 71 years, of Long Beach, NY, passed away at his home on Jan. 8, 2008.
He was born in New York City, NY, on Feb. 1, 1936, son of the late Patrick and Anne (Garvey) Collins.
He served his country during the Korean War in the US Navy and later in the Coast Guard Reserve.
James was a Fireman, skilled in Fire and Rescue with the NYC Fire Department until his retirement.
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Saturday, Jan. 12, 2008 at 11 a.m. at Our Lady of Knock Shrine in East Durham, NY.
Interment followed in the Greenville Cemetery.
There were no calling hours.
January 17, 2008
BURDETTE E. GRIFFIN
Farmer and entrepreneur
Burdette E. Griffin, 102 years, of Greenville, NY, passed away at his home on January 7, 2008.
He was born in Greenville, NY on October 25, 1905, son of the late Burdette S. and Rhue (Evans) Griffin.
He was one of eleven children, eight of whom lived well past retirement age.
He married Evangeline Snyder of Medusa on Christmas Day in 1927.
They had two sons, Edward and Kenneth.
In 1934 he purchased acreage on the Greene/Albany County line.
He was a farmer and entrepreneur building the resort known as Balsam Shade Farm.
Burdette enjoyed playing with his grandchildren and going to family events.
He enjoyed going to cattle auctions once a week to buy and sell cattle.
He also enjoyed playing poker with his Friday night buddies and in later years he loved trips to “Mohegan Sun” with his best friend and long time companion of 40 years Mary Cornell.
Burdette was predeceased by his wife Evangeline Griffin in 1966, a son Kenneth Griffin, four brothers, Lewis and Max, Merritt and Evans (Crow) Griffin, six sisters, Myra Booth, Elizabeth Burnett, Ruth Eisert, Margaret Feugman, Stella Abrams, Mabel Griffin and a granddaughter, Darcy Correia.
Surviving are his son, Edward Griffin (Mary) of Greenville, NY, two granddaughters, Jill De Giovonie (Len) and Keri Pettingill (Marvin), a grandson Kyle Griffin, four great-grandchildren, Ian, Aaron and Noel De Giovonie and Vangie Van Auken (Ed), four great-great grandchildren, Alexandria, Elizabeth, Edward and Samuel Van Auken, a sister-in-law, Roberta Griffin, several nieces and nephews and longtime companion and best friend Mary Cornell.
A Graveside service under the direction of the Cunningham Funeral Home, Greenville, NY, will be held at a later date.
Those who wish may contribute in Burdette’s memory to the American Cancer Society, 260 Osborne Rd., Loudonville, NY 12111 or Heldeberg Senior Services, PO Box 18, Westerlo, NY 12193.
January 17, 2008
GREGORY M. MURPHY
Gregory M. Murphy, 67, of Greenville, New York, formerly of Jersey City, New Jersey, passed away on January 12, 2008.
He was born in New York City on April 16, 1949.
He was the beloved husband of the late Joanne (Moll) Murphy.
His loving life partner Ginger Passaro of Greenville, New York, survives him.
Loving father of three daughters, Dana McManus (Daniel) of Howell, New Jersey, Lynda Angrosina (David) of Brick, New Jersey, and Joanne Panico of Jackson, New Jersey.
Devoted grandfather of nine, Meghan, Gregory, Dylan, Matthew, Kristen, Michael, Thomas, Amy, and Maggie Rose.
Dear brother of Bryan Murphy (Maureen) of Durham, New York, and the late Brendan Murphy (Jo-Ann) of Atkinson, New Hampshire.
Funeral Mass was Tuesday, January 15, at our Lady of Knocks Shrine, Route 145, East Durham, New York.
Friends called at the Cunningham Funeral Home, Greenville, on Monday, January 14.
Interment was in the Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington, New Jersey.
January 24, 2008
STELLA M. ATWOOD
School Bus Driver
Stella M. Atwood, 91, of Greenville died peacefully Wednesday, Jan. 16, 2008 at her home in Greenville after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
She was born November 2, 1916 in Brooklyn, daughter of the late Joseph and Antonia (Ozga) Babula.
She graduated from Cherry Valley School and lived in Cooperstown with her family and husband, John M. Kubis, who passed away in 1956.
She remarried in 1961 to Francis W. Atwood and moved to Clifton Park.
Mr. Atwood passed away in 1968.
Mrs. Atwood was a school bus driver for the Shenendehowa Central School District, retiring in 1981.
She was a beloved homemaker and bus driver.
She was an avid gardener and enjoyed bowling, traveling and spending time with her family.
She was an active long time member of the Shenendehowa Senior Citizen Center.
Besides her parents and husbands, she was predeceased by a brother, Frank Babula and a daughter-in-law, Gloria Kubis.
She is survived by her daughter, Barbara White and her husband Robert of Canton and her son Richard Kubis of Endicott, her four grandchildren, Katherine Palladino and her husband Andrew of Greenville, Karen Mori and her husband Lloyd of Plantation, Fla., and Laurie Kubis and Jonathan Kubis, both of Endicott, and two great-grandchildren, Laura and Michael Mori.
Funeral service was Saturday, January 19, 2008 at 1 p.m. at AJ Cunningham Funeral Homes, Inc., 4898 Route 81, Greenville.
Friends were invited to call at the funeral home on Saturday prior to the service from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Interment will be in the spring in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Cooperstown.
Those who wish may contribute in Mrs. Atwood’s memory to the Northeast Alzheimer’s Association in Albany or to the Greene County Meal on Wheels program.
January 24, 2008
MARGARET C. DOMBEK
Homemaker
Margaret C. Dombek, 92, of East Durham passed away at Columbia Memorial Hospital on Jan. 16, 2008.
She was born in Brooklyn on April 14, 1915, daughter of the late Walter and Lina (Behrman) Conallon.
A lifelong homemaker, she loved to garden and to decorate her home for the holidays.
Her family was her life; she was a friend to all she met and will be missed by her loving family and her friends.
She was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Oak Hill.
She was predeceased by her husband Charles J. Dombek and two daughters, Beverly Litke and Lorraine Muller.
Surviving are her daughter, Judy Fremgen of Cairo; three granddaughters, Dawn Adams, Lisa Whitbeck and Melanie Amoroso; and six great-grandchildren, Andy Whitbeck, Tyler Fremgen, Kerrie Adams, Tim Whitbeck, Meredith Adams and Noelle Amoroso.
Funeral services were Sunday at 5 p.m. at the Cunningham Funeral Home, 4898 Route 81, Greenville.
Friends were invited to call at the funeral home on Sunday, 2 to 5 p.m. prior to the service.
Interment was Monday, 11 a.m. in the Oak Hill Cemetery if weather conditions permit.
January 24, 2008
MANUELLA P. (PATRICIA) PERKOWSKI
Manuella P. (Patricia) Perkowski, 84, of SR 32, Greenville, NY, passed away on Jan. 20, 2008 at St. Peter’s Hospital in Albany, NY.
Born in Greenville, Patricia was the daughter of the late Clarence and Manuella Boomhower and was one of the last true Greenville citizens remaining.
She was a homemaker and assisted in running her husband’s business of 50+ [y]ears.
She was a charter and life member of the Greenville Vol. Fire Co. Ladies Aux., and a communicant of St. John the Baptist Church.
In her early years, she maintained a farm with her husband Felix and always possessed great baking skills; her family often looked forward to her annual Thanksgiving meal.
Surviving is her dear husband of 66 years, Felix J. Perkowski, her son William of Athens, NY and her daughter, Judith VanAmburgh (Wayne) of Castleton, NY, cherished grandmother of Dawn Varraro, William Perkowski, Jr., Brooke Mabb, Mary Perkowski, Megan VanAmburgh and Ryan VanAmburgh, five great-grandchildren, one great-[great] grandchild, four nieces and a nephew.
She was predeceased by her brother William Boomhower and her sister Marjorie Babcock.
Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Sat. Jan. 26 at the Cunningham Funeral Home, 4898 SR 81, Greenville, NY.
Friends may call at the funeral home on Fri. 4 to 7 p.m.
Interment will be in the Greenville Cemetery, weather conditions permitting.
Those who desire may contribute in her memory to the Greenville Vol. Fire Co. Ladies Aux. or to the Greenville Rescue Squad.
January 24, 2008
HERBERT SCHLEGEL
Farmer/Maitre d
Herbert Schlegel, 98, formerly of Greenville, passed away at the Eden Park HCC in Catskill on Jan. 18, 2008.
He was born in Meissen, Germany on May 24, 1909, son of the late Paul and Louise (Schneider) Schlegel.
Herbert and his wife, Valdah, moved to Greenville from White Plains in1940.
A life-long farmer he was also the “Maitre D” at the Sky Line Restaurant in Catskill for many years.
He was a loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather and will be greatly missed by his family.
His wife, Valdah (McLain) Schlegel, predeceased him in 1993.
Surviving are two daughters, Suzanne Cuccinello (John) of Prescott, Ariz., and Carol Ann “Cookie” Abate (Vito) of Greenville; three sons, Herbert Schlegel (Choon-Mi) of Hampton, N.H., Donald Schlegel (Linda) of Preston, Ariz., and Ronald Schlegel (Hildi) of Addison, NY; 13 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.
Funeral service will be 8 p.m. Thursday at the Cunningham Funeral Home, 4898 SR 81, Greenville.
Friends may call at the funeral home on Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. prior to the service.
Interment will be 11 a.m. Friday in the Greenville Cemetery.
January 24, 2008
MICHAEL J. STYGA SR.
Body and fender man
Michael J. Styga, Sr., 89, of West Coxsackie died Jan. 19, 2008 at the Hospice Inn at St. Peter’s Hospital, Albany.
He was born Sept. 24, 1918 in Catskill and was the son of the late Joseph S. and Mary (Urban) Styga.
Mass of Christian Burial took place Monday, Jan. 21, 2008 at St. Mary’s Church in Coxsackie at 9 a.m. with Father John Moyna, pastor, the celebrant, interment followed in the family plot of the St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Catskill with full military honors.
Michael is survived by his wife of 61 years, Catherine “Cathy” (Glennon) Styga; three sons Michael J. Styga Jr. and wife Kathleen of Climax, James G. Styga and wife Raquel of Miami, Fla., and Christopher M. Styga and wife Tamara of Peach Tree City, Ga.; two daughters, Kathleen M. DeSantis and husband Dominic of Glenville and Mary Ellen Higbee and husband Jack of Hudson; 12 grandchildren; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.
Besides his parents, he was predeceased by five sisters.
Michael was a communicant of St. Mary’s Church of Coxsackie and a member of Coxsackie American Legion Post 166 for 55 years.
Michael was a respected body-and-fender man working at Stapleton-Schneider Body Shop in Long Island, Jackson and Boome Body Shop in Coxsackie and Martinez Auto Body in Coxsackie.
Michael was in the Army during World War II from 1942 to 1945 as a corporal in the 142nd Infantry Division.
He served in the European Theater where he received the European Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal and World War II Victory Medal.
He was also part of the battle for the liberation of France during World War II.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Community Hospice of Albany, 315 South Manning Blvd., Albany, NY 12208.
January 31, 2008
ELIZABETH CORTESE
Elizabeth Cortese, 41, of Catskill passed away on Jan. 22, 2008 at Columbia Memorial Hospital, Hudson.
She was born in Albany, the daughter of Phillip Cortese and Ethelda (Susie) Lesnic.
She worked at many local businesses, the bakery in Bryant’s Market, Extra-mart, Shop-Rite in Catskill and McDonald’s in Cairo.
Elizabeth was predeceased by her dear friend Charlie Griffin.
Surviving are her daughter, Heather Farenkopf; two sons, Dustin Farenkopf and Phillip Cortese; he mother Ethelde Lesnic; her father Phillip Cortese; a sister, Victoria Arnold; a brother Patrick (Teddy) Kennealy; three grandsons, Jose Cortese, Philip Cortese, Jr., and Nicholas Burroughs; and a granddaughter, Serenity Cortese.
Friends were invited to call Saturday, Jan. 26, 2008 from 2 to 5 p.m. at A.J. Cunningham Funeral Homes, Inc., 4898 Route 81, Greenville.
Spring interment will be in the Westerlo Central Cemetery.
January 31, 2008
DOROTHY M. MCSTINE
Nurse
Dorothy M. (Lane) McStine, formerly of Catskill, passed away at her home in Jacksonville, NC on Jan. 9, 2008.
Dorothy was born on July 11, 1945 in Oceanside, L.I.
She attended Catskill High School and was a graduate of St. Peter’s Hospital Nursing Program.
She is survived by her husband Leonard McStine; four daughters, Leah (Robert) Throop, San Antonio, Texas, Ellen (Charles) Twiss, Selkirk, Jennifer (Kenneth) Piotrowski of Portsmouth, Va., Melanie McStine, Ashburn, Va.; three brothers, (twin) Douglas (Deborah) Lane of South Cairo, Roger (LouElla) Lane of Catskill, Victor (Joan) Lane of South Cairo, and a sister Letitia (Glen) Wase.
Dorothy had seven grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Dorothy was predeceased by her parents, Victor and Lillian Lane.
Donations may be made in her memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tenn. 38105
Funeral services were held at the Johnson and Johnson Funeral Home in Jacksonville, NC, on Jan. 12, 2008.
January 31, 2008
FRANK P. SCHOONMAKER
Auto mechanic
Frank P. Schoonmaker, 85, formerly of Athens, New York, died Monday, January 21, 2008 in Darby, Pennsylvania.
Frank was born in Knox, New York son of the late Frederick and Lucy Schoonmaker
Until his retirement he was employed as an auto mechanic for the State of New York.
He was an avid bowler.
Survivors include his children, Beverly Fletcher of Cobleskill, Robert Schoonmaker of Catskill and Fred Schoonmaker of Cairo; grandchildren, Angela Hoose of Leeds, Elaine Schoonmaker of Coxsackie, Kim Diamond of Cherry Town, Karen Waters of Morris, Dawn Brown of North Carolina, Lisa Gregory of Schenevus, Brian and Daniel Schoonmaker both of Catskill, Kevin Schoonmaker in the service, Robert, Jr. and Raymond Fletcher both of Cobleskill; and 14 great-grandsons.
Frank was predeceased by his brothers John and Harvey, sister Ellen and granddaughter Kelly Ann Schoonmaker.
Funeral services were held Sunday, January 27 at the Babcock Funeral Home, Ravena with Rev. Steven W. Peiffer officiating.
Burial will be in the spring in Knox Cemetery.
January 31, 2008
WILLIAM “WILD BILL” THERRIEN SR.
Racecar/Truck driver
William E. “Wild Bill” therrien Sr., 86, of South Westerlo, N.Y., passed away on January 23, 2008 at Kaaterskill Care in Catskill, N.Y.
He was born in Selkirk, N.Y. on June 4, 1921, son of the late Emile and Irene (Halsdorf) Therrien.
“Wild Bill” enjoyed his years as a racecar driver and was proud to be the first feature race winner at Lebanon Valley Speedway when they opened on June 28, 1953.
He was honored and inducted into the Speedway Hall of Fame on his 80th birthday.
Bill was also well known for his years of driving truck for Post Brothers Auto Parts.
His beloved wife, Marie (Breitenbach) Therrien predeceased him in 1990.
He was also predeceased by a brother, John Therrien; brothers-in-law, Frank Scarcella and Donald Revette; and his former wife Madeline Reddick.
He was the beloved father of Irene Sanders (Steve) of Midland, Texas, William E. Therrien, Jr. and Wayne Therrien (Rebecca) of South Westerlo, N.Y., Nobalee Monkell (Kenneth) of Greenville, N.Y.; loving grandfather of Tina and Chris Jauz, Mark Sanders, Janelle and James Bucci, Brenna Therrien (fiancé Robert Debuc), Michael Acker, Rebecca, Adam, Wayne and Derrick Therrien, Thomas, David, Brad and William Monkell; loving great-grandfather of Cooper and Avery Jauz and Carmella Bucci; also surviving is a brother, Emile Therrien (Pat); a sister, Elizabeth Scarcella; sister-in-law, Louella Revette; brother-in-law, Matthew Breitenbach and his wife Ann and many nieces and nephews and dear friends.
Funeral service will be Monday, January 28, 11 a.m. at the South Westerlo C.C. Church in South Westerlo.
Friends may call at the Cunningham Funeral Home on Sunday 2 to 6 p.m.
Interment (weather conditions permitting) will be in the Greenville Cemetery.
Those who desire may contribute in his memory to the Kaaterskill Care Activities Dept.