IN MEMORY OF
Higher Ground.
I wrote this song many years ago to express my grief for the loss of a real true friend.
Go Rest High On That Mountain
Fred Skeens
Video by Jim Walsh. I always enjoyed Fred Skeens. He was a wonderful man. Thanks so much to J Walsh for capturing Mr. Skeens having so much fun every where he went. I always looked forward to seeing him.
Willie Carnes
Wilfred Carnes, 97, passed away Monday, Aug. 28, 2017, at home.
He was a lifetime resident of AuSable Forks. He graduated from AuSable Forks High School and served in the U.S. Army Signal Corps in the South Pacific from 1942-1945. When he returned from the war, he worked with his father at the Carnes Granite Company. His craftsmanship for monument design can be seen all over the North Country, including the 46 High Peaks monuments which surround Mirror Lake in Lake Placid, co-designed by his wife Barbara.
"Willie" was loved by all. An accomplished musician, he played many instruments with numerous local bands. He and his wife volunteered in the community to raise funds for the Medical Bus.
Wilfred was predeceased by his parents, Lucy and Fred Carnes, his sister Carolyn Mussen, and his son Todd. He is survived by his wife, Barbara, daughter Carla, Sister Winona Eno, stepchildren Phyllis (George) Trinka, Nancy (Michael) Myers, Mark (Alice) Smith, Gordon (Ruth AKA "George") Smith, Paul (Siobahn) Smith, 11 step grandchildren, and 12 step great-grandchildren.
A graveside service is planned for 1 p.m. on September 23, at the Fairview Cemetery, Golf Course Road, AuSable Forks, N.Y., followed by a celebration of life (pot luck) at 14027 NYS Rt. 9N., AuSable Forks, N.Y.
Instead of flowers, Mrs. Carnes requests donations to be used to purchase pet food for the pets that Wilfred loved so much.
Funeral arrangements are in the care of Thwaits-Zaumetzer Funeral Home.
He was a lifetime resident of AuSable Forks. He graduated from AuSable Forks High School and served in the U.S. Army Signal Corps in the South Pacific from 1942-1945. When he returned from the war, he worked with his father at the Carnes Granite Company. His craftsmanship for monument design can be seen all over the North Country, including the 46 High Peaks monuments which surround Mirror Lake in Lake Placid, co-designed by his wife Barbara.
"Willie" was loved by all. An accomplished musician, he played many instruments with numerous local bands. He and his wife volunteered in the community to raise funds for the Medical Bus.
Wilfred was predeceased by his parents, Lucy and Fred Carnes, his sister Carolyn Mussen, and his son Todd. He is survived by his wife, Barbara, daughter Carla, Sister Winona Eno, stepchildren Phyllis (George) Trinka, Nancy (Michael) Myers, Mark (Alice) Smith, Gordon (Ruth AKA "George") Smith, Paul (Siobahn) Smith, 11 step grandchildren, and 12 step great-grandchildren.
A graveside service is planned for 1 p.m. on September 23, at the Fairview Cemetery, Golf Course Road, AuSable Forks, N.Y., followed by a celebration of life (pot luck) at 14027 NYS Rt. 9N., AuSable Forks, N.Y.
Instead of flowers, Mrs. Carnes requests donations to be used to purchase pet food for the pets that Wilfred loved so much.
Funeral arrangements are in the care of Thwaits-Zaumetzer Funeral Home.
Frank Culler
Frank Culler, 77, of Elizabethton, TN., passed away Sunday, September 10, 2017. He loved Bluegrass Gospel music and was a member of “Third Day Resurrection” Bluegrass band. He played upright bass and provided vocals.
In addition to family members and their relatives, he leaves behind his significant other, Barbara King, a dear friend of Mary and me. We will miss Frank a lot and we wish Barbara the very best in her loss.
Frank was one of the first musicians I met when we moved to the Unicoi area and was a fun guy to hang out with always keeping us amused with his sense of humor. I enjoyed being a part of the band all the while I was a member and had lots of fun performing with Frank all over eastern Tennessee, northwestern North Carolina and southwestern Virginia. R.I.P.
In addition to family members and their relatives, he leaves behind his significant other, Barbara King, a dear friend of Mary and me. We will miss Frank a lot and we wish Barbara the very best in her loss.
Frank was one of the first musicians I met when we moved to the Unicoi area and was a fun guy to hang out with always keeping us amused with his sense of humor. I enjoyed being a part of the band all the while I was a member and had lots of fun performing with Frank all over eastern Tennessee, northwestern North Carolina and southwestern Virginia. R.I.P.
Gene Clayton
Eugene G. Clayton, 88, of Endicott, passed away unexpectedly on Monday July 10, 2017 at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital surrounded by his loving family. He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Jenell, two children Diane and William. Also several nieces, nephews and cousins. At Eugene's request there will be no services. A military service will take place at the convenience of the family at a later date in Woodlawn Cemetery. Donations in his memory can be made to the Penny Blue Grass Association, 286 Old Newark Valley Rd. Endicott, New York 13760. Arrangements are by AEGIS CREMATION & FUNERAL SERVICES, 196 Clinton St. Binghamton, New York.
Pastor Joyce Bruce
Pastor, Joyce A. Bruce, 79, of Rt. 9N, Upper Jay, died on Saturday, May 12, 2017, at the UVM Health Network, CVPH.
Joyce died peacefully with her family by her side after a year long battle with cancer. She is now in the loving arms of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
She was born in Jay on Sept. 19, 1937, the daughter of Earle and Nellie (Moody) Bruce.
Joyce was an accomplished pianist, starting as a child.
She was pastor of the First Baptist Church of Jay, N.Y., then pastor of United Methodist Church of Clintonville, N.Y.
She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Malcolm Paul; a daughter and son-in-law, Beverly and William Hathaway of Jay, N.Y.; two sons and daughters-in-law, Carl and Melodie Bruce of Yoder, Colo., and Mark and Mary Bruce of Mechanicville, N.Y.; a sister, Lorraine Douglas of Wilmington, N.Y.; brother and sister-in-law, Lewis and Helen Bruce of Ballston Spa, N.Y.; four grandsons, Travis Sprague, Edison Bruce, Mark Bruce Jr., Benjamin Bruce; four great-grandchildren, Aubriana and Sophia Bruce and their mother Christine, and Matthew and Alexander Bruce and their mother Ashley.
She is predeceased by her parents, Earle and Nellie Bruce of Upper Jay, N.Y., and a brother, Warren Bruce of Upper Jay, N.Y.
Relatives and friends are invited to call from 4 to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, May 16, at the Hamilton Funeral Home, 294 Mannix Road, Peru. Committal Prayers and burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, May 17, in the Haselton Cemetery, Haselton Road, Willmington, N.Y.
In lieu of flowers donations in memory of Joyce A. Bruce may be made to the United Methodist Church, Route 9N, Clintonville, NY 12924.
Arrangements are in the care of the Hamilton Funeral Home, 294 Mannix Road, Peru, 643-9055. To offer an online condolence, share a symbolic gesture, or share a photo in memory of Joyce please visit www.hamiltonfuneralhome.com
Joyce died peacefully with her family by her side after a year long battle with cancer. She is now in the loving arms of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
She was born in Jay on Sept. 19, 1937, the daughter of Earle and Nellie (Moody) Bruce.
Joyce was an accomplished pianist, starting as a child.
She was pastor of the First Baptist Church of Jay, N.Y., then pastor of United Methodist Church of Clintonville, N.Y.
She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Malcolm Paul; a daughter and son-in-law, Beverly and William Hathaway of Jay, N.Y.; two sons and daughters-in-law, Carl and Melodie Bruce of Yoder, Colo., and Mark and Mary Bruce of Mechanicville, N.Y.; a sister, Lorraine Douglas of Wilmington, N.Y.; brother and sister-in-law, Lewis and Helen Bruce of Ballston Spa, N.Y.; four grandsons, Travis Sprague, Edison Bruce, Mark Bruce Jr., Benjamin Bruce; four great-grandchildren, Aubriana and Sophia Bruce and their mother Christine, and Matthew and Alexander Bruce and their mother Ashley.
She is predeceased by her parents, Earle and Nellie Bruce of Upper Jay, N.Y., and a brother, Warren Bruce of Upper Jay, N.Y.
Relatives and friends are invited to call from 4 to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, May 16, at the Hamilton Funeral Home, 294 Mannix Road, Peru. Committal Prayers and burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, May 17, in the Haselton Cemetery, Haselton Road, Willmington, N.Y.
In lieu of flowers donations in memory of Joyce A. Bruce may be made to the United Methodist Church, Route 9N, Clintonville, NY 12924.
Arrangements are in the care of the Hamilton Funeral Home, 294 Mannix Road, Peru, 643-9055. To offer an online condolence, share a symbolic gesture, or share a photo in memory of Joyce please visit www.hamiltonfuneralhome.com
Gordon Smith
Gordon A. Smith, 66, of Jay, N.Y., went to be with the Lord, Tuesday, March 14, 2017. He was born in Jay, N.Y., July 30, 1950, the son of late Stanley R. Smith and Alice M. Smith.
Gordon attended Ausable Valley Central school and graduated with the class of 1970. He went on to work over 30 years at Egglefield Ford in Elizabethtown, N.Y., as a mechanic and auto body specialist. Gordon was well known for his love of cars, trucks and wealth of knowledge pertaining to the auto industry. He was always willing and eager to take on just about any job to help a friend or someone in need.
When Gordon retired, he kept himself busy with his daughters and grandchildren, his love of cars and trucks, gardening, working outside in his yard, barbecues and cooking, listening to gospel, blue grass and country music, and being a caregiver for his mother in her final years. Gordon enjoyed family gatherings and spending time with relatives he didn't often get to see. Gordon also loved being surrounded by his family of friends at the Independent Baptist Church of Keeseville, N.Y., where he'd been a dedicated member to the Lord for many years.
Gordon is survived by his two daughters, Tashia Carron of Saranac Lake, Aleshia Baldwin of Lake Placid; one grandson, Mark Carron with his wife, Kait Carron of Twentynine Palms, Calif.; and two grand-daughters, Ireland Sledge of Valdosta, Ga., and Sapphire Fancy of Lake Placid.
Gordon was a wonderful father and grandfather; always available for his two daughters. He enjoyed spending time with both of them but he especially liked going places and spending time with his favorite grand baby, Sapphire Fancy and his daughter Aleshia.
Gordon was an inspiration to those that knew him well; a man of few words yet strong, loving and regal. His courage, loyalty and generosity were second to none. Gordon lived his life serving the Lord and serving others. He will be deeply missed.
A funeral celebration of Gordon's life will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 25, at the Independent Baptist Church, 2030 Rt. 22, Keeseville, N.Y., with Pastor Russ O'Neill officiating.
Gordon attended Ausable Valley Central school and graduated with the class of 1970. He went on to work over 30 years at Egglefield Ford in Elizabethtown, N.Y., as a mechanic and auto body specialist. Gordon was well known for his love of cars, trucks and wealth of knowledge pertaining to the auto industry. He was always willing and eager to take on just about any job to help a friend or someone in need.
When Gordon retired, he kept himself busy with his daughters and grandchildren, his love of cars and trucks, gardening, working outside in his yard, barbecues and cooking, listening to gospel, blue grass and country music, and being a caregiver for his mother in her final years. Gordon enjoyed family gatherings and spending time with relatives he didn't often get to see. Gordon also loved being surrounded by his family of friends at the Independent Baptist Church of Keeseville, N.Y., where he'd been a dedicated member to the Lord for many years.
Gordon is survived by his two daughters, Tashia Carron of Saranac Lake, Aleshia Baldwin of Lake Placid; one grandson, Mark Carron with his wife, Kait Carron of Twentynine Palms, Calif.; and two grand-daughters, Ireland Sledge of Valdosta, Ga., and Sapphire Fancy of Lake Placid.
Gordon was a wonderful father and grandfather; always available for his two daughters. He enjoyed spending time with both of them but he especially liked going places and spending time with his favorite grand baby, Sapphire Fancy and his daughter Aleshia.
Gordon was an inspiration to those that knew him well; a man of few words yet strong, loving and regal. His courage, loyalty and generosity were second to none. Gordon lived his life serving the Lord and serving others. He will be deeply missed.
A funeral celebration of Gordon's life will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 25, at the Independent Baptist Church, 2030 Rt. 22, Keeseville, N.Y., with Pastor Russ O'Neill officiating.
Carl Kithcart
Softly in the morning, you heard a gentle call, you took the hand God offered you and quietly left us all…..On May 22, 2016 Carlton Britt Kithcart Sr. of Nichols passed away at home with his loved ones by his side.
He will be greatly missed by his loving wife Bernadette; his children: Kit (Kari Crawford) Kithcart, Carlton Jr. (Eppie) Kithcart, Christopher (Becky) Kithcart; Chad (Michelle) Kithcart and Casey (Marci) Kithcart; 10 grandchildren, a great grandson. His siblings: Shirley Eddy, Loretta Wart, Debbie French, Rodney Kithcart, Sharon Beebe, Donna Wendall, Carol Hall, Terry Patrick; many nieces, nephews and cousins also survive along with his faithful companion Daisy.
Carl was welcomed into heaven by his parents and his daughter Tammie Sue Kithcart.
Carl, as he was affectionately known by his family and friends was born on February 2, 1951 in Endicott, a son of the late Kit Ferris and Beverly (Bird) Kithcart. A dedicated and hard worker, Carl worked very hard all his life. He spent many years working as a mechanic and also in construction before he started his own business Kithcart & Sons. Carl treasured his family and always looked forward to having his family close on holidays.
He was a very talented banjo player, loved golfing, attending Blue Grass Festivals and had a passion for dirt racing.
Until we meet again Dad, may you find comfort in the arms of an angel. Family and friends are invited to attend a period of visitation on Wednesday, May 25th from 4 to 8 pm at the Sutfin Funeral Chapel, 273 S. Main St., Nichols. A funeral service and celebration of Carl's life will be held on Thursday, May 26th at 11 am at the funeral chapel. Interment will follow in the South Owego Cemetery. A luncheon and time of sharing will follow the service at the VFW in Owego. Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting his guestbook at www.sutfinfuneralchapel.com
Those who wish may kindly consider a memorial contribution to the Penny Blue Grass Group, c/o Gene Clayton, 910 Jeanette Road, Endicott, New York 13760.
He will be greatly missed by his loving wife Bernadette; his children: Kit (Kari Crawford) Kithcart, Carlton Jr. (Eppie) Kithcart, Christopher (Becky) Kithcart; Chad (Michelle) Kithcart and Casey (Marci) Kithcart; 10 grandchildren, a great grandson. His siblings: Shirley Eddy, Loretta Wart, Debbie French, Rodney Kithcart, Sharon Beebe, Donna Wendall, Carol Hall, Terry Patrick; many nieces, nephews and cousins also survive along with his faithful companion Daisy.
Carl was welcomed into heaven by his parents and his daughter Tammie Sue Kithcart.
Carl, as he was affectionately known by his family and friends was born on February 2, 1951 in Endicott, a son of the late Kit Ferris and Beverly (Bird) Kithcart. A dedicated and hard worker, Carl worked very hard all his life. He spent many years working as a mechanic and also in construction before he started his own business Kithcart & Sons. Carl treasured his family and always looked forward to having his family close on holidays.
He was a very talented banjo player, loved golfing, attending Blue Grass Festivals and had a passion for dirt racing.
Until we meet again Dad, may you find comfort in the arms of an angel. Family and friends are invited to attend a period of visitation on Wednesday, May 25th from 4 to 8 pm at the Sutfin Funeral Chapel, 273 S. Main St., Nichols. A funeral service and celebration of Carl's life will be held on Thursday, May 26th at 11 am at the funeral chapel. Interment will follow in the South Owego Cemetery. A luncheon and time of sharing will follow the service at the VFW in Owego. Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting his guestbook at www.sutfinfuneralchapel.com
Those who wish may kindly consider a memorial contribution to the Penny Blue Grass Group, c/o Gene Clayton, 910 Jeanette Road, Endicott, New York 13760.
Frank Scaife
August 26, 1948 – March 1, 2016
James Francis "Frank" Scaife, 67, of Butternut Way, traveled to his home above, Tuesday, March 1, 2016 with his family by his side. He was born on August 26, 1948 in Blossburg, Pa., son of Theodore and Audrey (Padderson) Scaife.
Frank was employed for several years at Keene Central School as Head Mechanic.
He is survived by his mother, Audrey Scaife of Willsboro, Pa.; his wife, Vietta Scaife of Keene; two sons, Theodore Scaife of Keene, Steven Scaife of Keene; one daughter, Betsy Scaife of Keene; one sister, Barbara Engen and her husband Dennis of Ariz.; four granddaughters, Jessica, Samantha, Pamela and Faith. He is also survived by many other relatives throughout Pa. and N.Y.
He is predeceased by his father, Theodore Scaife.
There will be no calling hours. A memorial service will be held 11 a.m. March 11, 2016 at the Jay Baptist Church in Jay. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family.
Donation in Frank's memory may be made to Jay Baptist Church, Keene Fire Department.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Marvin-Heald Funeral Home, 7521 Court Street, Elizabethtown.
To light a memorial candle or leave an online condolence please visit www.healdfuneralhomeinc.com
(Personal note: Frank was a close personal friend from the day we met. He was a super guy to hang out with. His family is a wonderful family and I know they will miss him very much. So will I. May he rest in peace.)
James Francis "Frank" Scaife, 67, of Butternut Way, traveled to his home above, Tuesday, March 1, 2016 with his family by his side. He was born on August 26, 1948 in Blossburg, Pa., son of Theodore and Audrey (Padderson) Scaife.
Frank was employed for several years at Keene Central School as Head Mechanic.
He is survived by his mother, Audrey Scaife of Willsboro, Pa.; his wife, Vietta Scaife of Keene; two sons, Theodore Scaife of Keene, Steven Scaife of Keene; one daughter, Betsy Scaife of Keene; one sister, Barbara Engen and her husband Dennis of Ariz.; four granddaughters, Jessica, Samantha, Pamela and Faith. He is also survived by many other relatives throughout Pa. and N.Y.
He is predeceased by his father, Theodore Scaife.
There will be no calling hours. A memorial service will be held 11 a.m. March 11, 2016 at the Jay Baptist Church in Jay. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family.
Donation in Frank's memory may be made to Jay Baptist Church, Keene Fire Department.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Marvin-Heald Funeral Home, 7521 Court Street, Elizabethtown.
To light a memorial candle or leave an online condolence please visit www.healdfuneralhomeinc.com
(Personal note: Frank was a close personal friend from the day we met. He was a super guy to hang out with. His family is a wonderful family and I know they will miss him very much. So will I. May he rest in peace.)
Tom Richardson
Thomas Richardson, 78, of Upper Jay, N.Y., passed away peacefully on Feb. 24, 2016, with loved ones by his side. He was born on March 3, 1937, in Upper Jay, the son of Gerald and Hazel Richardson. Tom loved to hunt, do dream catchers, crossword puzzles and spending time with his family and the two dogs and cats.
Tom was a logger all his life. He worked for Chester Furnia, Rod Estes, along with working for Ed Boynton.
Tom is survived by his wife of 32 years, Darling (Daily) Richardson, of Upper Jay; four daughters, Debra Richardson, of Au Sable Forks, N.Y., Pam (Richardson) Furnia, of Plattsburgh, N.Y., Karla (Richardson) and her husband Mike Furnia, of Saranac, N.Y., Monica (Richardson) and her husband David Bland, Au Sable Forks, N.Y.; one son, Thomas Richardson and his wife Brittany, of Auburn Maine; one sister, Nancy (Richardson) and her husband Philip Mars, of Upper Jay; one sister-in-law, Wanita Richardson, of Tennesesse.
Tom has 14 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephew along with cousins.
Tom was preceded by his parents, Gerald and Hazel Richardson; a brother, Wallace (Pete) Richardson; a granddaughter, Sammie Furnia; and one sister, Nita Daby.
At Tom's request, there will be no calling hours. If you would like to make a donation, you can make it to the heart association or the cancer society. Thwaits-Zaumetzer Funeral Home is in care of arrangements. Online condolences and to light a candle may be made at tzfunerals.com
( A personal note from Fred Warner: I grew up in Upper Jay, NY, and one of the first fellows I met as a young boy was none other than Tom Richardson. Tom was a kind and quiet man with a good sense of humor and a tremendous work ethic. He worked in the woods his entire life and was an incredible strong man able to lift unbelievable amounts of heavy logs, etc. He loved old time country music and Bluegrass and in later years would host a large gang of Bluegrass lovers each Wednesday night at his home with his wife Darlin.
He was brother to Pete who taught me so much about Bluegrass in my early days. I miss them both very much.....they were true friends.)
Tom was a logger all his life. He worked for Chester Furnia, Rod Estes, along with working for Ed Boynton.
Tom is survived by his wife of 32 years, Darling (Daily) Richardson, of Upper Jay; four daughters, Debra Richardson, of Au Sable Forks, N.Y., Pam (Richardson) Furnia, of Plattsburgh, N.Y., Karla (Richardson) and her husband Mike Furnia, of Saranac, N.Y., Monica (Richardson) and her husband David Bland, Au Sable Forks, N.Y.; one son, Thomas Richardson and his wife Brittany, of Auburn Maine; one sister, Nancy (Richardson) and her husband Philip Mars, of Upper Jay; one sister-in-law, Wanita Richardson, of Tennesesse.
Tom has 14 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephew along with cousins.
Tom was preceded by his parents, Gerald and Hazel Richardson; a brother, Wallace (Pete) Richardson; a granddaughter, Sammie Furnia; and one sister, Nita Daby.
At Tom's request, there will be no calling hours. If you would like to make a donation, you can make it to the heart association or the cancer society. Thwaits-Zaumetzer Funeral Home is in care of arrangements. Online condolences and to light a candle may be made at tzfunerals.com
( A personal note from Fred Warner: I grew up in Upper Jay, NY, and one of the first fellows I met as a young boy was none other than Tom Richardson. Tom was a kind and quiet man with a good sense of humor and a tremendous work ethic. He worked in the woods his entire life and was an incredible strong man able to lift unbelievable amounts of heavy logs, etc. He loved old time country music and Bluegrass and in later years would host a large gang of Bluegrass lovers each Wednesday night at his home with his wife Darlin.
He was brother to Pete who taught me so much about Bluegrass in my early days. I miss them both very much.....they were true friends.)
Ronald Purdy
Ronald M. Purdy, 77, of Keene, died Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2016, at the UVM Health Network, CVPH Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family. His was a long and valiant fight against breast cancer. He was born Jan. 1, 1939, in Rochester, N.Y., the son of the late Wilmot "Monty" and Anna Lorraine (Burritt) Purdy.
The family moved to Keene when Ron was six and he began his Adirondack trek. After graduating from Keene Central School in 1957, he served in the U.S. Army and was honorably discharged in 1961. He returned home to join his father in the family business, Monty's Elm Tree Inn.
During his journey he was a Hurricane Club Bobsledder, a Jayceer, a former long time member of Saranac Lake Elks Lodge 1508, the Keene Fire Department and American Legion Post 504 in AuSable, and of course the president of the local Turtle Club.
To quote a friend; "I've bounced around the world and the states, but you stand out as one of the finest people I've met. You led by example, did the right thing, always helped your friends and community and never said a word about any of it. The word "hero" is way overused these days, but you have always been a hero in my eyes - in the old fashioned sense. Wishing you Godspeed."
Survivors include his wife, Kathleen; his sons, Todd and Scott of Keene; his daughter, Stacey (Chadd) Martin; his grandson, Wyatt Martin of Keene Valley; his foster sons, David LeClair of Elizabethtown, and Joseph O'Connor of Key West, Fla.; his sister, Beverly (Paul) Greenwood of Keene, his sisters-in-law, Nancy (Baird) Edmonds of Moab, Utah, and Denise Purdy of Lewis; former sister-in-law, Ginny Grimshaw; and many nieces and nephews and all the members of the large and loving Purdy clan. Ron was predeceased by his brother, Robert; and infant sons, Sean and Ronnie.
There will be no calling hours. A Memorial service will be celebrated at 2 p.m. on Saturday, February 13, at the St. Agnes Catholic Church in Lake Placid, N.Y. Father John Yonkovig will officiate.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Keene Fire Department, PO Box 136, Keene, NY 12942.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Marvin-Heald Funeral Home in Elizabethtown.
To light a memorial candle or leave an online condolence please visit www.healdfuneralhomeinc.com
(A personal note from Fred Warner: I will never forget the wonderful times I spent with Ronnie Purdy. Whether it was fighting fire somewhere in the hamlets of Keene, Keene Valley or St. Huberts, or hanging around the "joint" (Elm Tree Inn Bar & Restaurant) it truly was a blessing to have known him and I wish his family the very best.)
The family moved to Keene when Ron was six and he began his Adirondack trek. After graduating from Keene Central School in 1957, he served in the U.S. Army and was honorably discharged in 1961. He returned home to join his father in the family business, Monty's Elm Tree Inn.
During his journey he was a Hurricane Club Bobsledder, a Jayceer, a former long time member of Saranac Lake Elks Lodge 1508, the Keene Fire Department and American Legion Post 504 in AuSable, and of course the president of the local Turtle Club.
To quote a friend; "I've bounced around the world and the states, but you stand out as one of the finest people I've met. You led by example, did the right thing, always helped your friends and community and never said a word about any of it. The word "hero" is way overused these days, but you have always been a hero in my eyes - in the old fashioned sense. Wishing you Godspeed."
Survivors include his wife, Kathleen; his sons, Todd and Scott of Keene; his daughter, Stacey (Chadd) Martin; his grandson, Wyatt Martin of Keene Valley; his foster sons, David LeClair of Elizabethtown, and Joseph O'Connor of Key West, Fla.; his sister, Beverly (Paul) Greenwood of Keene, his sisters-in-law, Nancy (Baird) Edmonds of Moab, Utah, and Denise Purdy of Lewis; former sister-in-law, Ginny Grimshaw; and many nieces and nephews and all the members of the large and loving Purdy clan. Ron was predeceased by his brother, Robert; and infant sons, Sean and Ronnie.
There will be no calling hours. A Memorial service will be celebrated at 2 p.m. on Saturday, February 13, at the St. Agnes Catholic Church in Lake Placid, N.Y. Father John Yonkovig will officiate.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Keene Fire Department, PO Box 136, Keene, NY 12942.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Marvin-Heald Funeral Home in Elizabethtown.
To light a memorial candle or leave an online condolence please visit www.healdfuneralhomeinc.com
(A personal note from Fred Warner: I will never forget the wonderful times I spent with Ronnie Purdy. Whether it was fighting fire somewhere in the hamlets of Keene, Keene Valley or St. Huberts, or hanging around the "joint" (Elm Tree Inn Bar & Restaurant) it truly was a blessing to have known him and I wish his family the very best.)
Ted Wrench
Theodore "Ted" Carlton Wrench, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday December 18, 2015, at 7:31 pm surrounded by his loving family.
During his 81 years, Ted had a very prosperous and adventurous life. His family was of utmost importance to him and he shared a special love with each and every one of them. As one of his grandchildren said "Grandpa Wrench was the type of man that would help anyone, rescue and love animals, teach anyone anything he knew, tell it like it was, and love his family with everything he had".
His family was his love but doodlebugs and bluegrass were his passion. A lifetime resident of Coventryville, Ted was involved in many things. He was always there to lend a helping hand no matter who was in need or how big or small the need. He never met a stranger! Over the years he worked for Coventry Leasing, owned his own sawmill, Auto Repair (T & A Auto & Lumber), had his own trucking business. He was a member of the North Afton United Methodist Church. He was a member of the Franklin Doodlebug Club, Past-President of the "Penny Bluegrass Association", member of "Del-Se-Nango Olde Tyme Fiddlers" where his fiddling fingers first began, and founder of his own Bluegrass group "Wrench's Wranglers", where Ted enjoyed playing the fiddle at the Wrench Wranch Bluegrass Round -Up over Labor Day weekend each year since the early 1980's.
Not only is Ted survived by numerous friends, he is survived by his loving family which includes his loving wife of 28 years, Brenda, and his faithful furbabies, Patches and Roxy. His family also includes his children and step-children - Carlton "Tony" (Mary) Wrench, Keith (Ann) Wrench, Linda (Lloyd) Gmoser, Tammy (Jeff) Walker, John Janus, Kent (Tonya) Williamson and Tony (Stephanie) Williamson. Grandchildren whom he treasured are James Wrench, Dina Marie Wrench, Sierra (Andrew Stein) Bubny, Greg (Tiffany) Wrench, Tai (PJ) Quattrocchi, Jeffrey (Jessica) Walker, Chad Walker, Jason, (Meagan) Wrench, Heather Wrench, Tonya Wrench, Daniel Janus, April Janus, John Janus Jr., and Jaime Janus, Josh, Kevin and Carson. Ted was blessed with several Great-Grandchildren who were the apple of his eye. They are Bailey, Skyler, Dakoda, Donte, Spencer, Avree, Maddy, Kira, Sean, Braylon, and several Step-Great children, nieces, nephews & cousins.
He was predeceased by his parents, Carlton L. and Francis Wrench, his son Ken Wrench, and his siblings.
A celebration of Ted's life will be held 1:00 January 2, 2016 at the North Afton Methodist Church, 121 County Road 17, Afton, New York.
Ted is sure going to be missed by his family and his numerous friends - too many to name. Arrangements are by AEGIS CREMATION & FUNERAL SERVICES, 196 CLINTON STREET, BINGHAMTON, NY.
During his 81 years, Ted had a very prosperous and adventurous life. His family was of utmost importance to him and he shared a special love with each and every one of them. As one of his grandchildren said "Grandpa Wrench was the type of man that would help anyone, rescue and love animals, teach anyone anything he knew, tell it like it was, and love his family with everything he had".
His family was his love but doodlebugs and bluegrass were his passion. A lifetime resident of Coventryville, Ted was involved in many things. He was always there to lend a helping hand no matter who was in need or how big or small the need. He never met a stranger! Over the years he worked for Coventry Leasing, owned his own sawmill, Auto Repair (T & A Auto & Lumber), had his own trucking business. He was a member of the North Afton United Methodist Church. He was a member of the Franklin Doodlebug Club, Past-President of the "Penny Bluegrass Association", member of "Del-Se-Nango Olde Tyme Fiddlers" where his fiddling fingers first began, and founder of his own Bluegrass group "Wrench's Wranglers", where Ted enjoyed playing the fiddle at the Wrench Wranch Bluegrass Round -Up over Labor Day weekend each year since the early 1980's.
Not only is Ted survived by numerous friends, he is survived by his loving family which includes his loving wife of 28 years, Brenda, and his faithful furbabies, Patches and Roxy. His family also includes his children and step-children - Carlton "Tony" (Mary) Wrench, Keith (Ann) Wrench, Linda (Lloyd) Gmoser, Tammy (Jeff) Walker, John Janus, Kent (Tonya) Williamson and Tony (Stephanie) Williamson. Grandchildren whom he treasured are James Wrench, Dina Marie Wrench, Sierra (Andrew Stein) Bubny, Greg (Tiffany) Wrench, Tai (PJ) Quattrocchi, Jeffrey (Jessica) Walker, Chad Walker, Jason, (Meagan) Wrench, Heather Wrench, Tonya Wrench, Daniel Janus, April Janus, John Janus Jr., and Jaime Janus, Josh, Kevin and Carson. Ted was blessed with several Great-Grandchildren who were the apple of his eye. They are Bailey, Skyler, Dakoda, Donte, Spencer, Avree, Maddy, Kira, Sean, Braylon, and several Step-Great children, nieces, nephews & cousins.
He was predeceased by his parents, Carlton L. and Francis Wrench, his son Ken Wrench, and his siblings.
A celebration of Ted's life will be held 1:00 January 2, 2016 at the North Afton Methodist Church, 121 County Road 17, Afton, New York.
Ted is sure going to be missed by his family and his numerous friends - too many to name. Arrangements are by AEGIS CREMATION & FUNERAL SERVICES, 196 CLINTON STREET, BINGHAMTON, NY.
Don Hudson
Donald J. Hudson Sr., beloved son of George and Hazel Hudson, entered into eternal peace on November 25th, 2015, after a long illness. Don was a renowned Bluegrass musician, recognized for his quick wit and spirited play. Don travelled up and down the eastern seaboard, entertaining thousands with his unique musical styling. The Bluegrass community has lost a favored son. Don was born and raised in West Galway, NY. He married, Lois Schell, in 1954, together they raised their family in Glenville, NY. Don leaves his beloved wife, Lois; sons, Donald Jr. (Patti) of Warrenton, VA, John (Nancy) of Charlton, Scott (Terry) of Ballston Lake; and daughter, Holly (Michael) Fowler of Glenville. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. His many relatives, friends and colleagues are invited to a remembrance ceremony on Sunday, November 29th, 2015 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Tunison Funeral Home,105 Lake Avenue, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Burial with military honors will be at the Gerald B.H. Solomon, Saratoga National Cemetery on Monday November 30, 2015 at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Cancer Society . Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the Tunison Funeral Home. Online remembrances can be made at www.tunisonfuneralhome.com. -
Tom Quinn
KEENE VALLEY - Thomas was born Nov. 17, 1958, in New Rochelle, N.Y., son of Nicholas A. Quinn and Patricia K. Magee (Walker) Quinn. Thomas graduated from Keene Central School District in 1976, and has since kept close ties with the community.
Thomas married Geanetta "Cricket" M. (LeClair) Quinn on Sept. 26, 1981. They raised two children, Cassie K. (Quinn) Phillips, and Logan T. Quinn on the family property. Thomas was a self-employed contractor, working in Keene, N.Y., as well as the surrounding area.
Thomas was preceded by his parents; and two brothers, (James Quinn and Jeremy Quinn).
Thomas is survived by his wife Cricket of Keene Valley; son, Logan and his wife, Mary (Garcia) Quinn of Smallwood, N.Y., daughter, Cassie and her husband, Marc Phillips, and their child, Abigail Q. Phillips of Colonie, N.Y., all much beloved by Thomas. Additionally, he is by survived by sister Kathleen Quinn of Lake Placid, brother N. Barrett Quinn and wife Stephanie Quinn of Saranac Lake, brother Michael and wife Beth Quinn of Saranac Lake, brother Sean Quinn of Shelburne, Mass., brother Andrew and wife Amy Quinn of Lake Placid, sister-in-law Sheryl Quinn of Keene, and mother-in-law Beverly LeClair of Kingman, Ariz.; along with numerous nieces and nephews; brothers-and sisters-in-law.
A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, September 23, at St. Agnes Church in Lake Placid. Burial will follow in the Norton Cemetery in Keene.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Tom's memory may be made to the Hope Lodge in Burlington, Keene Valley Volunteer Fire Department, or St. Brendan's Church in Keene.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Marvin-Heald Funeral Home, 7521 Court Street, Elizabethtown.
PERSONAL NOTE: Tom was a very community-minded man, an excellent tradesman and a wonderful friend for many, many years. I will miss him a lot. (Fred Warner)
Thomas married Geanetta "Cricket" M. (LeClair) Quinn on Sept. 26, 1981. They raised two children, Cassie K. (Quinn) Phillips, and Logan T. Quinn on the family property. Thomas was a self-employed contractor, working in Keene, N.Y., as well as the surrounding area.
Thomas was preceded by his parents; and two brothers, (James Quinn and Jeremy Quinn).
Thomas is survived by his wife Cricket of Keene Valley; son, Logan and his wife, Mary (Garcia) Quinn of Smallwood, N.Y., daughter, Cassie and her husband, Marc Phillips, and their child, Abigail Q. Phillips of Colonie, N.Y., all much beloved by Thomas. Additionally, he is by survived by sister Kathleen Quinn of Lake Placid, brother N. Barrett Quinn and wife Stephanie Quinn of Saranac Lake, brother Michael and wife Beth Quinn of Saranac Lake, brother Sean Quinn of Shelburne, Mass., brother Andrew and wife Amy Quinn of Lake Placid, sister-in-law Sheryl Quinn of Keene, and mother-in-law Beverly LeClair of Kingman, Ariz.; along with numerous nieces and nephews; brothers-and sisters-in-law.
A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, September 23, at St. Agnes Church in Lake Placid. Burial will follow in the Norton Cemetery in Keene.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Tom's memory may be made to the Hope Lodge in Burlington, Keene Valley Volunteer Fire Department, or St. Brendan's Church in Keene.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Marvin-Heald Funeral Home, 7521 Court Street, Elizabethtown.
PERSONAL NOTE: Tom was a very community-minded man, an excellent tradesman and a wonderful friend for many, many years. I will miss him a lot. (Fred Warner)
Lorie Gregory
KEENE VALLEY - Lorie M. Gregory, 84, of Keene Valley, passed away Saturday, Sept. 12, 2015, at UVHN-CVPH Medical Center in Plattsburgh, N.Y.
She was born in Staten Island, N.Y., on March 21, 1931, the youngest daughter of Robin and Hilda (Reinsdorf) Martin. Lorie graduated from Keene Valley High School in 1949 and married Edward Gregory of Keene Valley in 1950.
A beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, she enriched the soil of their growth with warmth, wisdom and mirth. Lorie had the marvelous attribute of being able to laugh at herself. She loved her family and friends dearly, and behind them came Frank Sinatra, "The New Yorker," books, music, art and cooking.
Survivors include two children, Wendy Sheasby and Suzanne Preston and her husband Seymour of Keene Valley; three grandchildren, Heidi Sheasby-Kirschner and her husband Andrew and their children, Rubin and Talula of Glenford, N.Y., Morgan Sheasby and his wife Alison of Brooklyn, N.Y., Elly Preston of Natick, Mass.; a brother, Paul Martin of Keene Valley; a niece and several nephews. Lorie was predeceased by her husband, Edward; her son Michael; and two sisters, Suzanne Wilber and Joan Downing; and niece Robyn Korpan.
A memorial service will take place at 3 p.m. on Saturday, September 19, at the Keene Valley Congregational Church in Keene Valley, N.Y.; a reception will follow. Donations in Lorie's memory may be made to the Keene Valley Library, Keene Valley, N.Y.
Arrangements are under the direction of Marvin-Heald Funeral Home, Elizabethtown, N.Y.
PERSONAL NOTE: Lorie was a fun-loving, friendly person who always spoke when I would meet her. She loved music and she loved her family, friends and community. She was great! (Fred Warner).
She was born in Staten Island, N.Y., on March 21, 1931, the youngest daughter of Robin and Hilda (Reinsdorf) Martin. Lorie graduated from Keene Valley High School in 1949 and married Edward Gregory of Keene Valley in 1950.
A beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, she enriched the soil of their growth with warmth, wisdom and mirth. Lorie had the marvelous attribute of being able to laugh at herself. She loved her family and friends dearly, and behind them came Frank Sinatra, "The New Yorker," books, music, art and cooking.
Survivors include two children, Wendy Sheasby and Suzanne Preston and her husband Seymour of Keene Valley; three grandchildren, Heidi Sheasby-Kirschner and her husband Andrew and their children, Rubin and Talula of Glenford, N.Y., Morgan Sheasby and his wife Alison of Brooklyn, N.Y., Elly Preston of Natick, Mass.; a brother, Paul Martin of Keene Valley; a niece and several nephews. Lorie was predeceased by her husband, Edward; her son Michael; and two sisters, Suzanne Wilber and Joan Downing; and niece Robyn Korpan.
A memorial service will take place at 3 p.m. on Saturday, September 19, at the Keene Valley Congregational Church in Keene Valley, N.Y.; a reception will follow. Donations in Lorie's memory may be made to the Keene Valley Library, Keene Valley, N.Y.
Arrangements are under the direction of Marvin-Heald Funeral Home, Elizabethtown, N.Y.
PERSONAL NOTE: Lorie was a fun-loving, friendly person who always spoke when I would meet her. She loved music and she loved her family, friends and community. She was great! (Fred Warner).
Obituary of Dean Scalf
Mr. Terry Dean Scalf, age 60, of Elizabethton, TN passed away Friday, August 28, 2015 in the Select Medical Hospital, Bristol following a brief illness. A native of Carter County, he was the son of the late Butler and Mary Scalf Jenkins. Mr. Scalf was a brick mason and he was a member of Little Doe Freewill Baptist Church. He enjoyed playing guitar and singing with his musical friends, playing golf and spending time with his family.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Dennis Hill and Leroy Hill; a sister, Kay Church and his father-in-law, Ray Wellman. Survivors include his wife, Gale Scalf, of the home; two daughters, Terra Scalf, of the home and Deana Scalf, Elizabethton; a son, Travis Scalf and his wife Rosella, Elizabethton; five granddaughters, Katy, Brooke, Kyndal, Abby and Kymber; a grandson, Koty; four brothers, Cecil Hill, Gary Hill, Paul Hill and Carl Clark, all of Elizabethton and two sisters, Betty Mathes and Sue Elliott, both of Elizabethton. Several nieces and nephews also survive.
A service to honor the life of Mr. Terry Dean Scalf will be conducted at 7:00 P.M. Tuesday, September 1, 2015 in the Chapel of Peace of Tetrick Funeral Home, Elizabethton with Rev. Shane Waters officiating. Music will be under the direction of his musical friends. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 5:00 – 7:00 P.M. on Tuesday prior to the service or at the residence at any time.
Graveside service and interment will be conducted at 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, September 2, 2015 in the Wellman Cemetery. Active pallbearers will be Ronnie Wellman, Kenny Wellman, Nate Treadway, Zach Treadway, Mike Hicks, Junior Wellman, Bobby Elliott, Billy Ellioitt, Travis Hall and Rick Hill. Honorary pallbearers will be Carl Clark, Rick Church, Dwight Treadway, Jerry White and all of his musical friends. Everyone will meet at the funeral home at 10:15 A.M. Wednesday to go in procession to the cemetery.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Dennis Hill and Leroy Hill; a sister, Kay Church and his father-in-law, Ray Wellman. Survivors include his wife, Gale Scalf, of the home; two daughters, Terra Scalf, of the home and Deana Scalf, Elizabethton; a son, Travis Scalf and his wife Rosella, Elizabethton; five granddaughters, Katy, Brooke, Kyndal, Abby and Kymber; a grandson, Koty; four brothers, Cecil Hill, Gary Hill, Paul Hill and Carl Clark, all of Elizabethton and two sisters, Betty Mathes and Sue Elliott, both of Elizabethton. Several nieces and nephews also survive.
A service to honor the life of Mr. Terry Dean Scalf will be conducted at 7:00 P.M. Tuesday, September 1, 2015 in the Chapel of Peace of Tetrick Funeral Home, Elizabethton with Rev. Shane Waters officiating. Music will be under the direction of his musical friends. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 5:00 – 7:00 P.M. on Tuesday prior to the service or at the residence at any time.
Graveside service and interment will be conducted at 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, September 2, 2015 in the Wellman Cemetery. Active pallbearers will be Ronnie Wellman, Kenny Wellman, Nate Treadway, Zach Treadway, Mike Hicks, Junior Wellman, Bobby Elliott, Billy Ellioitt, Travis Hall and Rick Hill. Honorary pallbearers will be Carl Clark, Rick Church, Dwight Treadway, Jerry White and all of his musical friends. Everyone will meet at the funeral home at 10:15 A.M. Wednesday to go in procession to the cemetery.
Obituary of Eva Sams
Eva Sams, age 87, of Erwin, passed away on Tuesday, August 11, 2015 at her residence. She was a native of Unicoi County and a daughter of the late J.S. and Rhoda Luttrell Rogers. Eva was a loving homemaker and a member of Erwin Church of God. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Harry Sams in 1998.
Eva Sams has left behind to cherish her memories:
Son: Jerry Sams and wife, Kathy of Erwin;
Daughter: Vinda Hensley and husband, Bill of Jonesborough;
Grandchildren: Keith Hensley and wife, Cindy of Jonesborough,
Jeremy Sams of Erwin,
Brandy Bevins and husband, Tyler of Johnson City;
Great Grandchildren: Sierra Sams, Phoebe Perkins and Zoe Perkins;
Special Friend: Barbara Jean Cooper of Erwin
The family respectfully requests the honor of your presence as we offer tribute and remember the life of Eva Sams in a funeral service to be held on Thursday, August 13, 2015 at 7:00 PM in the Chapel of Valley Funeral Home. Minister Jim Griffith will officiate. A visitation period to share memories and offer support to the family will begin at 5:00 PM and continue until service time on Thursday at Valley Funeral Home. A committal service will be held on Friday, August 14, 2015 at 11:00 AM at Evergreen Cemetery. Those who will attend will meet at Evergreen Cemetery by 10:50 AM on Friday. Pallbearers will be notified.
Condolences and memories may be shared with the family and viewed atwww.valleyfuneralhome.net. These arrangements are made especially for the family and friends of Eva Sams through Valley Funeral Home, 1085 N. Main Ave., Erwin, 423-743-9187.
Eva Sams has left behind to cherish her memories:
Son: Jerry Sams and wife, Kathy of Erwin;
Daughter: Vinda Hensley and husband, Bill of Jonesborough;
Grandchildren: Keith Hensley and wife, Cindy of Jonesborough,
Jeremy Sams of Erwin,
Brandy Bevins and husband, Tyler of Johnson City;
Great Grandchildren: Sierra Sams, Phoebe Perkins and Zoe Perkins;
Special Friend: Barbara Jean Cooper of Erwin
The family respectfully requests the honor of your presence as we offer tribute and remember the life of Eva Sams in a funeral service to be held on Thursday, August 13, 2015 at 7:00 PM in the Chapel of Valley Funeral Home. Minister Jim Griffith will officiate. A visitation period to share memories and offer support to the family will begin at 5:00 PM and continue until service time on Thursday at Valley Funeral Home. A committal service will be held on Friday, August 14, 2015 at 11:00 AM at Evergreen Cemetery. Those who will attend will meet at Evergreen Cemetery by 10:50 AM on Friday. Pallbearers will be notified.
Condolences and memories may be shared with the family and viewed atwww.valleyfuneralhome.net. These arrangements are made especially for the family and friends of Eva Sams through Valley Funeral Home, 1085 N. Main Ave., Erwin, 423-743-9187.
Loren Eddy
Alexander Funeral Home, Inc.
Loren D. Eddy
(May 21, 1929 - July 3, 2015)
Athol: I am, and was a simple man, with great values and expectations of life, family, and my community. I lived fully, I loved deeply, and laughed whole heartily.
On Friday, July 3, 2015, I traveled on with a grateful spirit and a song in my heart, surrounded by all I created, a loving family, at my home.
Loren D. Eddy, born May 21, 1929 in Corinth was the son of the late Arthur and Murial (Kenyon) Eddy.
He enlisted in the United States Army in 1947, serving his country for three years prior to his honorable discharge in 1950.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Joyce (Mosher) Eddy; their children, Michael Eddy and his wife, Mary, and Hollie Combs and her husband, Monte; grandchildren, Stacey Eddy and her companion, Eric Henry, Aaron Beadnell and her husband, Thomas, Caleb Combs and his wife, Tamara, and Jessica LaFountain and her companion, Mike; great-grandchildren, Dakota Beadnell, Morgan Dunkley, Kali, Isabella, and Avril LaFountain, and their father, Allen LaFountain, and Dylan, Odelia, and Ella Combs.
At Loren’s request there will be no calling hours scheduled.
Services will take place privately, at the convenience of the family.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations in Loren’s memory to High Peaks Hospice, 79 Glenwood Ave., Queensbury, NY 12804.
Please visit www.alexanderfh.net for online guestbook and condolences.
Loren D. Eddy
(May 21, 1929 - July 3, 2015)
Athol: I am, and was a simple man, with great values and expectations of life, family, and my community. I lived fully, I loved deeply, and laughed whole heartily.
On Friday, July 3, 2015, I traveled on with a grateful spirit and a song in my heart, surrounded by all I created, a loving family, at my home.
Loren D. Eddy, born May 21, 1929 in Corinth was the son of the late Arthur and Murial (Kenyon) Eddy.
He enlisted in the United States Army in 1947, serving his country for three years prior to his honorable discharge in 1950.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Joyce (Mosher) Eddy; their children, Michael Eddy and his wife, Mary, and Hollie Combs and her husband, Monte; grandchildren, Stacey Eddy and her companion, Eric Henry, Aaron Beadnell and her husband, Thomas, Caleb Combs and his wife, Tamara, and Jessica LaFountain and her companion, Mike; great-grandchildren, Dakota Beadnell, Morgan Dunkley, Kali, Isabella, and Avril LaFountain, and their father, Allen LaFountain, and Dylan, Odelia, and Ella Combs.
At Loren’s request there will be no calling hours scheduled.
Services will take place privately, at the convenience of the family.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations in Loren’s memory to High Peaks Hospice, 79 Glenwood Ave., Queensbury, NY 12804.
Please visit www.alexanderfh.net for online guestbook and condolences.
Willard Ollis
I played pool with Willard Ollis nearly every weekday morning for the past four years. He passed away suddenly on June 24th, 2015. He will be missed very much by all the men at the Clinchfield Senior Center. He was a great friend. May he rest in Peace.
Me and Willard
Bill Birchfield of Roan Mountain Hilltoppers. Rest In Peace.
Johnny Gimble, May 9th, 2015
Wade Ledford
Shirley & Wade Ledford
Wade Ledford, age 70, of Elizabethton, passed away on Thursday, January 29, 2015 at his residence. Wade was a native of Carter County and a son of the late Homer Wade and Matilda Opal Cole Ledford. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Christina Lynn Ellison; and a brother, Dayton Ledford.
Mr. Ledford had worked as a plumber and pipefitter. He was a member of Blue Springs Christian Church and was a United States Army veteran.
Survivors include his wife of 44 years, Shirley Ann Swift Ledford, of the home; three children, Jesse Ledford and wife Judy, Dawn Sheffield and husband Deon, and Crystal Ledford and Michael Lyons, all of Elizabethton; eight grandchildren, Heather Ellison, Jessica Ledford, Olivia Presnell, Katelyn “Katy” Presnell, Autumn Sheffield, Malachi Presnell, Jon Perkins, and Logan Jenkins, all of Elizabethton; two sisters, Ruth Elliott and Mary Lee Williams, both of Elizabethton; a special sister-in-law, Brenda Ledford, NC; and a special cousin and friend, Wade Edminson.
A service to honor the life of Mr. Wade Ledford will be conducted at 7:00 PM on Sunday, February 1, 2015 in the Chapel of Peace at Tetrick Funeral Home, Elizabethton with Pastor Ronnie Edwards and Pastor Norman Markland, officiating. Music will be provided by Mike Laws and Jessica Ledford. The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM in the funeral home chapel, prior to the service on Sunday; or at the residence at anytime.
The graveside service will be conducted at 10:00 AM on Monday, February 2, 2015 at the residence. Military honors will be conducted by the Carter County Honor Guard. Active pallbearers will be Jon Perkins, Logan Jenkins, Charlie Ruppe, Doug Combs, Billy Rash, Jacob Rash, David Holtsclaw, Jimmy Holtsclaw, and Joseph Johnson. Honorary pallbearers will be Alfred Carter, Kurt Carter, Lonnie Carter, Frank Culler, Burl Mast, Rick Trivette, and Cooter Williams. Those wishing to attend the graveside service are asked to meet at the residence at 9:50 AM on Monday.
Those who prefer memorials in lieu of flowers, may make donations to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 2335 Knob Creek Road, Suite 101, Johnson City, TN 37604.
Mr. Ledford had worked as a plumber and pipefitter. He was a member of Blue Springs Christian Church and was a United States Army veteran.
Survivors include his wife of 44 years, Shirley Ann Swift Ledford, of the home; three children, Jesse Ledford and wife Judy, Dawn Sheffield and husband Deon, and Crystal Ledford and Michael Lyons, all of Elizabethton; eight grandchildren, Heather Ellison, Jessica Ledford, Olivia Presnell, Katelyn “Katy” Presnell, Autumn Sheffield, Malachi Presnell, Jon Perkins, and Logan Jenkins, all of Elizabethton; two sisters, Ruth Elliott and Mary Lee Williams, both of Elizabethton; a special sister-in-law, Brenda Ledford, NC; and a special cousin and friend, Wade Edminson.
A service to honor the life of Mr. Wade Ledford will be conducted at 7:00 PM on Sunday, February 1, 2015 in the Chapel of Peace at Tetrick Funeral Home, Elizabethton with Pastor Ronnie Edwards and Pastor Norman Markland, officiating. Music will be provided by Mike Laws and Jessica Ledford. The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM in the funeral home chapel, prior to the service on Sunday; or at the residence at anytime.
The graveside service will be conducted at 10:00 AM on Monday, February 2, 2015 at the residence. Military honors will be conducted by the Carter County Honor Guard. Active pallbearers will be Jon Perkins, Logan Jenkins, Charlie Ruppe, Doug Combs, Billy Rash, Jacob Rash, David Holtsclaw, Jimmy Holtsclaw, and Joseph Johnson. Honorary pallbearers will be Alfred Carter, Kurt Carter, Lonnie Carter, Frank Culler, Burl Mast, Rick Trivette, and Cooter Williams. Those wishing to attend the graveside service are asked to meet at the residence at 9:50 AM on Monday.
Those who prefer memorials in lieu of flowers, may make donations to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 2335 Knob Creek Road, Suite 101, Johnson City, TN 37604.
Dale Lashway
WILLSBORO - Dale Lashway, 78, well known North Country Champion Fiddler, passed into the arms of the Lord on Sunday, Aug. 31, 2014.
He was born in Ellenburg, N.Y., the son of Floyd and Clara (Dominic) Lashway on Dec. 20, 1935. He was a member of St. Philip's Church and Knights of Columbus in Willsboro, BPOE # 2072 of Keeseville, Laborers Local #186 for 40 years, and an active member of the Vermont Fiddlers Club. He was also a five time championship winner of N.Y. State Fiddle Contests. He played with the Cold Brook Ramblers for years as well as jam sessions at local nursing homes and anywhere there was a gathering of music lovers. He was a wonderful gardener and was very proud of his annual gardens.
Mr. Lashway is survived by his wife Beverly (Morgan) whom he married in 1995; his children, Linda and Tim Dombrowski, Janice Dorey, Steven Lashway, Danny and Tammy Lashway, Terry and Pam Lashway, and Monica and Jason Lifgren; his stepchildren Michael Barber and Cherilee Aubin, Matthew and Christine Barber, Beverly and Rick Charland and David and Michelle Barber; his sisters and brothers, Rita and Frank Hart, Donna and Bob Cooney-Vorhis, Shirley Arcet, Ada and Ed Gromada, Sandra Fennyery and Joe Rauscher, and Lee Lashway ; numerous grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by a daughter, Christine Caron; brother Harold; and sisters Doris, Monica, Carol, Faye, and Patty.
He was born in Ellenburg, N.Y., the son of Floyd and Clara (Dominic) Lashway on Dec. 20, 1935. He was a member of St. Philip's Church and Knights of Columbus in Willsboro, BPOE # 2072 of Keeseville, Laborers Local #186 for 40 years, and an active member of the Vermont Fiddlers Club. He was also a five time championship winner of N.Y. State Fiddle Contests. He played with the Cold Brook Ramblers for years as well as jam sessions at local nursing homes and anywhere there was a gathering of music lovers. He was a wonderful gardener and was very proud of his annual gardens.
Mr. Lashway is survived by his wife Beverly (Morgan) whom he married in 1995; his children, Linda and Tim Dombrowski, Janice Dorey, Steven Lashway, Danny and Tammy Lashway, Terry and Pam Lashway, and Monica and Jason Lifgren; his stepchildren Michael Barber and Cherilee Aubin, Matthew and Christine Barber, Beverly and Rick Charland and David and Michelle Barber; his sisters and brothers, Rita and Frank Hart, Donna and Bob Cooney-Vorhis, Shirley Arcet, Ada and Ed Gromada, Sandra Fennyery and Joe Rauscher, and Lee Lashway ; numerous grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by a daughter, Christine Caron; brother Harold; and sisters Doris, Monica, Carol, Faye, and Patty.
Cecil "Pete" Pelkey
BLOOMINGDALE — Mr. Cecil Pelkey, known to everyone as "Pete" passed away July 19, 2014, at his home surrounded by his family and under to care of Hospice.
He was born in Jay on Nov. 7, 1939, the son of Kenneth and Jennie (Denton) Pelkey. He grew up in Wilmington and had resided in Franklin Falls, Bloomingdale, for the past 48 years.
He attended school in Wilmington and later in Lake Placid. He worked many jobs and wore many hats including skiing, working construction, owning his own logging company (known too many as the mayor of Franklin Falls), partners in a construction company, and skiing industry. He acquired three skiing certifications while working at Paleface Mt. Ski Center: Graduated—length skiing, Canadian Alliance Ski Certification, and Eastern Ski Certification. At Paleface he was a ski instructor, assistant ski school director and later had his own ski school at Woods Valley near Rome, N.Y. He taught and coached many local children in the school programs at Paleface. At Whiteface Mt. he taught skiing, was assistant ski patrol leader for many years and later was supervisor of the host patrol and interim assistant manager. In his early years, he was also one of the first employees there under the direction of Otto Schniebs to cut the first trail on Whiteface Mt. He had also acquired a joint pilot and engineer license for operating large vessels. Many will remember Pete for his skiing abilities and taming the bumps at Whiteface.
His greatest joy was traveling with Alice to Alaska, panning for gold, and around the United States and Canada visiting his many friends. He loved all outdoor activities; fishing, hiking, snow—shoeing, downhill and x—c skiing. He retired 18 years ago and spent every day enjoying his retirement years with these activities and added playing cards with exquisite lunches with his sisters, brother—in—law, and niece. He was known to many as "Uncle Pete."
He is survived by his loving wife, Alice Smith, of 56 years; three children, Dale (Debria) Pelkey, Tracy (Gary) Morgan, Penny (Bob) Sampson; five grandchildren, Chad, Peter, Veronica, Dylan, and Alison; and 3 great—grandchildren, Cheyenne, Amanda, and Rose; four sisters, Arlene Franton (George Conant), Rocky (Cal) Ward, Sandy Galbraith, Mary Pelkey (Terry Avery).
He was predeceased by his parents; one brother, Kenneth; three sisters and brothers—in—law, Catherine (Francis) Peck, Betty (Rod) Cooper, and Frances (Frank) Mason.
Services are to be held at Thwaits—Zaumetzer Funeral Home at Noon with calling hours 11 to 12 p.m. prior to the service on Saturday, July 26.
He was born in Jay on Nov. 7, 1939, the son of Kenneth and Jennie (Denton) Pelkey. He grew up in Wilmington and had resided in Franklin Falls, Bloomingdale, for the past 48 years.
He attended school in Wilmington and later in Lake Placid. He worked many jobs and wore many hats including skiing, working construction, owning his own logging company (known too many as the mayor of Franklin Falls), partners in a construction company, and skiing industry. He acquired three skiing certifications while working at Paleface Mt. Ski Center: Graduated—length skiing, Canadian Alliance Ski Certification, and Eastern Ski Certification. At Paleface he was a ski instructor, assistant ski school director and later had his own ski school at Woods Valley near Rome, N.Y. He taught and coached many local children in the school programs at Paleface. At Whiteface Mt. he taught skiing, was assistant ski patrol leader for many years and later was supervisor of the host patrol and interim assistant manager. In his early years, he was also one of the first employees there under the direction of Otto Schniebs to cut the first trail on Whiteface Mt. He had also acquired a joint pilot and engineer license for operating large vessels. Many will remember Pete for his skiing abilities and taming the bumps at Whiteface.
His greatest joy was traveling with Alice to Alaska, panning for gold, and around the United States and Canada visiting his many friends. He loved all outdoor activities; fishing, hiking, snow—shoeing, downhill and x—c skiing. He retired 18 years ago and spent every day enjoying his retirement years with these activities and added playing cards with exquisite lunches with his sisters, brother—in—law, and niece. He was known to many as "Uncle Pete."
He is survived by his loving wife, Alice Smith, of 56 years; three children, Dale (Debria) Pelkey, Tracy (Gary) Morgan, Penny (Bob) Sampson; five grandchildren, Chad, Peter, Veronica, Dylan, and Alison; and 3 great—grandchildren, Cheyenne, Amanda, and Rose; four sisters, Arlene Franton (George Conant), Rocky (Cal) Ward, Sandy Galbraith, Mary Pelkey (Terry Avery).
He was predeceased by his parents; one brother, Kenneth; three sisters and brothers—in—law, Catherine (Francis) Peck, Betty (Rod) Cooper, and Frances (Frank) Mason.
Services are to be held at Thwaits—Zaumetzer Funeral Home at Noon with calling hours 11 to 12 p.m. prior to the service on Saturday, July 26.
James Alan Shelton, guitarist for Dr. Ralph Stanley.
Edward C. Moody
EDWARD C. MOODY, 68, died March 13, 2014, at CVPH Medical Center with his daughter by his side. Edward was born in Massachusetts on July 31, 1945, the son of Noel and Gloria. At Edward's request there will be no calling hours or services. A private burial will be at a later date. The Thwaits- Zaumetzer Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.
NOTE: Edward, known to all his many friends as "Skip", became my friend when I was 5 years old and he was 10. My parents and his parents had been good friends for years and years before. Skip loved fishing, hunting, photography and music just to name a few things he occupied his mind with over the years.
I can remember he would catch trout out of the East Branch of the Au Sable river, bare-handed. He would swim underwater carefully up next to them and gently rub their bellies and then suddenly grasp them by the gills with two fingers and yank them from the water. He caught some river monsters that way and the rest of us boys were always impressed with his skills.
He loved music, too. Especially Marty Robins, Chet Atkins, Ernie Tubbs and all kinds of Bluegrass. He was one of the original members of The High Peaks Bluegrass League.
Skip and I hung out all the time as kids growing up. I'll never forget what a great friend he was. I loved him like a brother.
NOTE: Edward, known to all his many friends as "Skip", became my friend when I was 5 years old and he was 10. My parents and his parents had been good friends for years and years before. Skip loved fishing, hunting, photography and music just to name a few things he occupied his mind with over the years.
I can remember he would catch trout out of the East Branch of the Au Sable river, bare-handed. He would swim underwater carefully up next to them and gently rub their bellies and then suddenly grasp them by the gills with two fingers and yank them from the water. He caught some river monsters that way and the rest of us boys were always impressed with his skills.
He loved music, too. Especially Marty Robins, Chet Atkins, Ernie Tubbs and all kinds of Bluegrass. He was one of the original members of The High Peaks Bluegrass League.
Skip and I hung out all the time as kids growing up. I'll never forget what a great friend he was. I loved him like a brother.
Hank Clothier
HUDSON FALLS -- Paul W. “Hank” Clothier, 86, of Hudson Falls, passed away peacefully Saturday, March 8, 2014, at Stanton Nursing Home in Queensbury with the comfort of his loving family by his side.
Paul was born in Corinth, the son of Albert and Dora Clothier.
He was a graduate of Corinth High School, where he excelled in soccer, basketball and baseball. After high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army.
He was lucky enough to be married to his “Adirondack Sweetheart,” Irene Pixley of Hadley, for 56 years. Together, they traveled all over the Northeast playing bluegrass music and having jam sessions with their legion of friends until the sun came up on many a day. It didn’t matter if you couldn’t hit the right chord or sing in the right key; everyone was welcome to join the jam session. He also was a founding member of Adirondack Bluegrass League formed in 1972. Today, Adirondack Bluegrass League is known to be the third-oldest bluegrass association in the United States.
He was a devoted husband, father and loved his four grandchildren, Artie, Marcia, Brandon and Casey immensely. He also enjoyed taking pictures of nature and family members and gardening in his younger years, along with bowling with his wife and friends. He was proudly employed for 38 years with Niagara Mohawk Power Co. until his retirement. Like many men from his era, Paul was patriotic and a hard-working man of great character who loved his family and sacrificed for others.
Besides his parents, he was also predeceased by one brother, Ernest Clothier; and one sister, Lefa Salzman.
Survivors include his loving wife, Irene of Hudson Falls; his three children, Rhonda (Roger) Demarsh of Fort Edward, Doreen Bills and her companion, Michael Wright, of Hudson Falls, and Daniel Clothier of Queensbury; his grandchildren, Artie Smith, Marsha (Chris) Hazelton, and Brandon and Casey Bills; his brother, Harold (Cynthia) Clothier of Leesburg Fla.; as well great-grandchildren, Natalie Smith and McKenna Hazelton; and many nieces and nephews.
Services will be conducted at 2 p.m. Monday, March 17, 2014, at Densmore Funeral Home Inc., 7 Sherman Ave., Corinth, with Lane Schermerhorn officiating.
Burial will be in the spring.
Friends may call from noon to 2 p.m. Monday before the service at the funeral home. Members of Horace D. Washburn American Legion Post No. 533 of Corinth will conduct a service at 1:45 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.
The family would like to thank the doctors and nurses on Tower 6 at Glens Falls Hospital and the staff at The Stanton Nursing Home for the care and compassion they shared with Paul and their family.
Used by permission from The Glens Falls Post Star.
Paul was born in Corinth, the son of Albert and Dora Clothier.
He was a graduate of Corinth High School, where he excelled in soccer, basketball and baseball. After high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army.
He was lucky enough to be married to his “Adirondack Sweetheart,” Irene Pixley of Hadley, for 56 years. Together, they traveled all over the Northeast playing bluegrass music and having jam sessions with their legion of friends until the sun came up on many a day. It didn’t matter if you couldn’t hit the right chord or sing in the right key; everyone was welcome to join the jam session. He also was a founding member of Adirondack Bluegrass League formed in 1972. Today, Adirondack Bluegrass League is known to be the third-oldest bluegrass association in the United States.
He was a devoted husband, father and loved his four grandchildren, Artie, Marcia, Brandon and Casey immensely. He also enjoyed taking pictures of nature and family members and gardening in his younger years, along with bowling with his wife and friends. He was proudly employed for 38 years with Niagara Mohawk Power Co. until his retirement. Like many men from his era, Paul was patriotic and a hard-working man of great character who loved his family and sacrificed for others.
Besides his parents, he was also predeceased by one brother, Ernest Clothier; and one sister, Lefa Salzman.
Survivors include his loving wife, Irene of Hudson Falls; his three children, Rhonda (Roger) Demarsh of Fort Edward, Doreen Bills and her companion, Michael Wright, of Hudson Falls, and Daniel Clothier of Queensbury; his grandchildren, Artie Smith, Marsha (Chris) Hazelton, and Brandon and Casey Bills; his brother, Harold (Cynthia) Clothier of Leesburg Fla.; as well great-grandchildren, Natalie Smith and McKenna Hazelton; and many nieces and nephews.
Services will be conducted at 2 p.m. Monday, March 17, 2014, at Densmore Funeral Home Inc., 7 Sherman Ave., Corinth, with Lane Schermerhorn officiating.
Burial will be in the spring.
Friends may call from noon to 2 p.m. Monday before the service at the funeral home. Members of Horace D. Washburn American Legion Post No. 533 of Corinth will conduct a service at 1:45 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.
The family would like to thank the doctors and nurses on Tower 6 at Glens Falls Hospital and the staff at The Stanton Nursing Home for the care and compassion they shared with Paul and their family.
Used by permission from The Glens Falls Post Star.
BOB PURDY LEAVES BEHIND FOND MEMORIES
November 21, 2013 By NAJ WIKOFF - Special to the Adirondack Daily Enterprise
KEENE - On Oct. 19, former Keene town Supervisor and Essex County Disaster Preparedness Director Bob Purdy accepted the Lake Placid Hall of Fame induction award on behalf of his father, Monty. It was his last public appearance.
A month later, early the morning of Nov. 13, he died peacefully at home in bed while his wife Denise was up getting ready for the day. He was 78.
Simply, his heart gave out. But not his spirit, as all who heard his humor and stories at the Lake Placid Conference Center - and his wife, family and friends - can attest.
Article Photos
Bob Purdy accepts his father Monty’s induction into the Lake Placid Hall of Fame on Oct. 19.
(Photo — Dan Plumley)
"I want everyone to know he was a great dad, a great husband and would do anything for his kids" said his daughter Nicole.
"He treated everyone like family," said Josh Whitney. "He had that ability to embrace with his eyes that I think is a rare gift. He was a person who could look at you and you knew he loved you."
Bob Purdy was a veteran serving in the U.S. Air Force from 1952 to 1956. He served two separate terms as supervisor of the town of Keene, spanning a total of 17 years: 1970 to 1982 and again from 1992 to 1997. He served as the director of the Adirondack Park Local Government Review Board from 1981 to 1982 and as the Essex County disaster preparedness director from 1984 to 1991. He ran unsuccessfully for the state Assembly against Andy Ryan of Plattsburgh in 1974 and considered running for the state Senate against Ron Stafford in 1984, but did not file.
Bob Purdy was one of those larger-than-life personalities who filled any room he entered. He was gregarious and enveloping. He made friends easily and everywhere. He was known for his intelligence, humor and energy. He was also a person who made his opinions known.
"You never had to wonder, 'What does Bob Purdy think?'" said former North Elba town Supervisor Shirley Seney. "He came out with, 'Well, let me tell you this.' He would go on, and by the time he got through, you knew where Bob stood, every bit of it. In my opinion, he was well respected. He spoke his piece. He said what he had to say, but he was a gentleman."
Purdy was born in 1935 in Greece, N.Y. His parents Monty and Lorraine moved permanently to Keene from Rochester in 1946 when he was 11, soon taking over the Elm Tree Inn. The inn was famed under the Purdys for its food, especially their Purdy Burgers, and hospitality, and became a favorite hangout for locals, seasonal residents, visitors and, in particular, bobsledders.
Purdy grew up at a time when life was economically and socially tough in the Adirondacks. Most people worked seasonally, many going on unemployment for often half the year or more. Hunting was more than a sport; for many it was an opportunity to fill the freezer with meat. His mentor was his father, a legendary personality, sports promoter, raconteur and unofficial "mayor of Keene" who had a large heart and helped many families or travelers in need, often quietly with no fanfare.
Purdy was an end of an era that featured the long-serving Mayor Bob Peacock of Lake Placid, state Sen. Ron Stafford of Peru-Plattsburgh and Gov. Nelson Rockefeller - an era when politics was very much about relationships, doing favors and at times skating on the edge to get things done. For him, that might mean dredging the East Branch of the AuSable River of gravel before the ink was dry (or penned) on a state Department of Environmental Conservation permit to make sure some of his constituents wouldn't get flooded.
He would press hard for the people of Keene and make no apologies about doing so. For most of his career he was a Democrat when few were. Thus, vitally important was developing bonds that crossed aisles in Elizabethtown, Albany and Washington, and with state agency staff, resulting in his ability to bring many grants and other resources to support Keene.
"With Bob Purdy, you knew where you stood," said Moriah town supervisor Tom Scozzafava. "We had our disagreements, but at the end of the day we were still friends. I always respected him for that.
"As the emergency services director, Bob was right on top of the job. I remember in my first year as supervisor of Moriah, we had some major flooding and he was right here. He helped us through every step of the way. He helped set up shelters with a couple different power outages. He did the job very well, and he was very well connected. This guy knew everybody from Washington, D.C. to Fairbanks, Alaska. He knew them all. He had a great network built up. If you needed something, Bob was the go-to guy."
He had hardships, none more than losing son and namesake Bobby to cancer. His home burned to the ground, and they lost everything including their pet. They later lost their barn to fire. Greatly distressing to him was being questioned over credit card receipts for town business; however, a state audit he requested cleared him. Disappointments also included the loss of a challenge to Assemblyman Ryan for his seat.
He successfully led the drive that brought Off Track Betting to Essex County (located in Ticonderga), getting ballot approval to transfer town land for state land to expand the cemetery, and laying the foundation for Essex County to develop a 911 emergency call system. He served 48 years as a member of the Keene Volunteer Fire Department, including as commissioner, and served as the national chairman of the U.S. Bobsled Committee.
"Bob was so personable and really cared about people," Keene Councilman Paul Martin said. "He wanted to be helpful to people. He fought very hard for things for the town of Keene."
He loved his work as the director of Essex Country Disaster Preparedness and, as town supervisor, led and was highly praised for the rescue response to an overturned bus carrying 48 people during the 1980 Olympic Winter Games.
He loved the people of Keene, but for him and his family, his greatest accomplishment was as a husband, father, grandfather and uncle. In that regard, his good fortune was to die at home. He was also incredibly proud to be able to accept and speak to his father's accomplishments as a member of the Lake Placid Hall of Fame, Class of 2013.
"He was very capable," said Mildred Walsh, who worked with him at Essex County Disaster Preparedness Office. "How can I describe it? The work got done, very pleasantly. Every day it was, 'Good morning, kid. How are ya?' and then we got to work. I thought he did a very good job as director."
"He did a lot for the town of Keene," said his wife Denise. "He tried to look after for the people who couldn't fend for themselves. Sometimes he would go against the establishment in a way to get the things done he felt needed to get done. He tried for years to get the rivers dredged because of the flooding. He loved being supervisor and fire coordinator. Sometimes he'd be to the fire before the fire truck got there."
Purdy left behind two children by his first wife Ginny, Stephanie and Diane; his wife Denise and their two daughters, Nicole and Britney; two stepdaughters, Tammy and Heather; his sister Beverly and brother Ronnie, as well as a large extended family.
A memorial service, with honor guard provided by the Keene and Keene Valley fire departments, will be held at the Keene Congregational Church at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 23.
----------------------------------
NOTE from Fred Warner: I enjoyed Bob's friendship for many years. He helped me in so many different ways throughout the years. His office was just down the hall from me when I was a department head for Building Codes & Safety at Essex County Government and he was the department head for Disaster Preparedness. Bob knew politics and I learned a great deal from him in his various roles of public service.
Bob also enjoyed Bluegrass music and would always make a point to stop in to the Elm Tree Inn (his father's place) when he knew "The Purdy Burgers" were playing Bluegrass. "The Purdy Burgers" were sponsored by Ronnie Purdy (Bob's brother) who would take us around the area to other bar/restaurants to perform for their patrons. Band members were: Dave Deyo, guitar; Dan Sheldon, guitar & vocals; Ed Kennelly, upright bass & vocals; Frank Owen, washtub bass and vocals; and yours truly on banjo and vocals.
I loved Bob like an older brother.
November 21, 2013 By NAJ WIKOFF - Special to the Adirondack Daily Enterprise
KEENE - On Oct. 19, former Keene town Supervisor and Essex County Disaster Preparedness Director Bob Purdy accepted the Lake Placid Hall of Fame induction award on behalf of his father, Monty. It was his last public appearance.
A month later, early the morning of Nov. 13, he died peacefully at home in bed while his wife Denise was up getting ready for the day. He was 78.
Simply, his heart gave out. But not his spirit, as all who heard his humor and stories at the Lake Placid Conference Center - and his wife, family and friends - can attest.
Article Photos
Bob Purdy accepts his father Monty’s induction into the Lake Placid Hall of Fame on Oct. 19.
(Photo — Dan Plumley)
"I want everyone to know he was a great dad, a great husband and would do anything for his kids" said his daughter Nicole.
"He treated everyone like family," said Josh Whitney. "He had that ability to embrace with his eyes that I think is a rare gift. He was a person who could look at you and you knew he loved you."
Bob Purdy was a veteran serving in the U.S. Air Force from 1952 to 1956. He served two separate terms as supervisor of the town of Keene, spanning a total of 17 years: 1970 to 1982 and again from 1992 to 1997. He served as the director of the Adirondack Park Local Government Review Board from 1981 to 1982 and as the Essex County disaster preparedness director from 1984 to 1991. He ran unsuccessfully for the state Assembly against Andy Ryan of Plattsburgh in 1974 and considered running for the state Senate against Ron Stafford in 1984, but did not file.
Bob Purdy was one of those larger-than-life personalities who filled any room he entered. He was gregarious and enveloping. He made friends easily and everywhere. He was known for his intelligence, humor and energy. He was also a person who made his opinions known.
"You never had to wonder, 'What does Bob Purdy think?'" said former North Elba town Supervisor Shirley Seney. "He came out with, 'Well, let me tell you this.' He would go on, and by the time he got through, you knew where Bob stood, every bit of it. In my opinion, he was well respected. He spoke his piece. He said what he had to say, but he was a gentleman."
Purdy was born in 1935 in Greece, N.Y. His parents Monty and Lorraine moved permanently to Keene from Rochester in 1946 when he was 11, soon taking over the Elm Tree Inn. The inn was famed under the Purdys for its food, especially their Purdy Burgers, and hospitality, and became a favorite hangout for locals, seasonal residents, visitors and, in particular, bobsledders.
Purdy grew up at a time when life was economically and socially tough in the Adirondacks. Most people worked seasonally, many going on unemployment for often half the year or more. Hunting was more than a sport; for many it was an opportunity to fill the freezer with meat. His mentor was his father, a legendary personality, sports promoter, raconteur and unofficial "mayor of Keene" who had a large heart and helped many families or travelers in need, often quietly with no fanfare.
Purdy was an end of an era that featured the long-serving Mayor Bob Peacock of Lake Placid, state Sen. Ron Stafford of Peru-Plattsburgh and Gov. Nelson Rockefeller - an era when politics was very much about relationships, doing favors and at times skating on the edge to get things done. For him, that might mean dredging the East Branch of the AuSable River of gravel before the ink was dry (or penned) on a state Department of Environmental Conservation permit to make sure some of his constituents wouldn't get flooded.
He would press hard for the people of Keene and make no apologies about doing so. For most of his career he was a Democrat when few were. Thus, vitally important was developing bonds that crossed aisles in Elizabethtown, Albany and Washington, and with state agency staff, resulting in his ability to bring many grants and other resources to support Keene.
"With Bob Purdy, you knew where you stood," said Moriah town supervisor Tom Scozzafava. "We had our disagreements, but at the end of the day we were still friends. I always respected him for that.
"As the emergency services director, Bob was right on top of the job. I remember in my first year as supervisor of Moriah, we had some major flooding and he was right here. He helped us through every step of the way. He helped set up shelters with a couple different power outages. He did the job very well, and he was very well connected. This guy knew everybody from Washington, D.C. to Fairbanks, Alaska. He knew them all. He had a great network built up. If you needed something, Bob was the go-to guy."
He had hardships, none more than losing son and namesake Bobby to cancer. His home burned to the ground, and they lost everything including their pet. They later lost their barn to fire. Greatly distressing to him was being questioned over credit card receipts for town business; however, a state audit he requested cleared him. Disappointments also included the loss of a challenge to Assemblyman Ryan for his seat.
He successfully led the drive that brought Off Track Betting to Essex County (located in Ticonderga), getting ballot approval to transfer town land for state land to expand the cemetery, and laying the foundation for Essex County to develop a 911 emergency call system. He served 48 years as a member of the Keene Volunteer Fire Department, including as commissioner, and served as the national chairman of the U.S. Bobsled Committee.
"Bob was so personable and really cared about people," Keene Councilman Paul Martin said. "He wanted to be helpful to people. He fought very hard for things for the town of Keene."
He loved his work as the director of Essex Country Disaster Preparedness and, as town supervisor, led and was highly praised for the rescue response to an overturned bus carrying 48 people during the 1980 Olympic Winter Games.
He loved the people of Keene, but for him and his family, his greatest accomplishment was as a husband, father, grandfather and uncle. In that regard, his good fortune was to die at home. He was also incredibly proud to be able to accept and speak to his father's accomplishments as a member of the Lake Placid Hall of Fame, Class of 2013.
"He was very capable," said Mildred Walsh, who worked with him at Essex County Disaster Preparedness Office. "How can I describe it? The work got done, very pleasantly. Every day it was, 'Good morning, kid. How are ya?' and then we got to work. I thought he did a very good job as director."
"He did a lot for the town of Keene," said his wife Denise. "He tried to look after for the people who couldn't fend for themselves. Sometimes he would go against the establishment in a way to get the things done he felt needed to get done. He tried for years to get the rivers dredged because of the flooding. He loved being supervisor and fire coordinator. Sometimes he'd be to the fire before the fire truck got there."
Purdy left behind two children by his first wife Ginny, Stephanie and Diane; his wife Denise and their two daughters, Nicole and Britney; two stepdaughters, Tammy and Heather; his sister Beverly and brother Ronnie, as well as a large extended family.
A memorial service, with honor guard provided by the Keene and Keene Valley fire departments, will be held at the Keene Congregational Church at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 23.
----------------------------------
NOTE from Fred Warner: I enjoyed Bob's friendship for many years. He helped me in so many different ways throughout the years. His office was just down the hall from me when I was a department head for Building Codes & Safety at Essex County Government and he was the department head for Disaster Preparedness. Bob knew politics and I learned a great deal from him in his various roles of public service.
Bob also enjoyed Bluegrass music and would always make a point to stop in to the Elm Tree Inn (his father's place) when he knew "The Purdy Burgers" were playing Bluegrass. "The Purdy Burgers" were sponsored by Ronnie Purdy (Bob's brother) who would take us around the area to other bar/restaurants to perform for their patrons. Band members were: Dave Deyo, guitar; Dan Sheldon, guitar & vocals; Ed Kennelly, upright bass & vocals; Frank Owen, washtub bass and vocals; and yours truly on banjo and vocals.
I loved Bob like an older brother.
Bob Nelson
Robert K. “Bob” Nelson age 80 of Afton passed away on October 25. Mr. Nelson was a staple and an important figure in Afton and Chuckey community all his life. Bob was a man of God and virtue, a devoted and loving father and an extremely special grandfather and great-grandfather. His reach and influence extended far beyond the Afton and Chuckey community. Most who new him, including those close in age and even older, referred to him affectionately as “Papaw.”
Papaw had a deep passion and unusual talent for playing bluegrass music. He was an avid bluegrass picker and was known widely for being one of the best guitar pickers and singers around. He got his first guitar at the very early age of 6. He traded his brother Frank a hand full of comic books and a bicycle for a guitar. Locally, Papaw played a lot of great music with local players such as Bud Rose, Benny Sims, Thomas “Pawn Jam” Martin, Homer Ball, Harlan Miller, Kenneth Foster, Chris Hensley, Tom Bullen, “Smilin’” Jack Lane, Junior Nelson, Roy Hunt, J.C. Ward, James Waddell, Charlie Black, ‘Pepe’ Peeler, and many others. He was a member of the Harlan Miller’s Gospel Revue for many years. He had was also member of the bluegrass gospel group with Charlie Black, Doug White, Homer Ball, Dwight Hensley called Cornerstone for many years. Papaw and Mammaw (his wife Aletha--along with grandson Brent) travelled the entire southeast going to bluegrass festivals for many, many years. He was affectionately known in the northern states such as Ohio as “Tennessee Bob.” He had picked with some of the best players throughout those travels. Some of his picking partners had been Don Reno, Bill Harrell, and Carl Story. However, his most special picking sessions were always with his grandson Brent Lamons.
Bob worked hard all his life. He had done farm and tobacco work and also worked at Magnavox Company in Greeneville for 15 years. He was a craftsman and founded Nelson’s Woodworking Shop in the early 50’s. The woodworking shop has become an institution in the Afton and Chuckey community (and in Greeneville and Greene County). It would be challenging to assess what percentage of houses in Greeneville and Greene County Bob has put cabinets in, but the figure might be close to 45 or 50%. He had very little formal education but was blessed with oodles of common sense and wisdom.
The impact and influence that Papaw had on people’s lives from Greene County to Georgetown, Ohio, to Miami, FL cannot easily be realized. He was a loving father to four children, but actually helped raise many more children than just his four. He was a true patriarch in many more ways than one. Anyone who ever met him could never forget him. He was one of the toughest yet gentle people one could ever meet with a smile that nearly consumed his whole face. Those who knew or met him are better for having done so. This community and world have lost a true treasure.
Many thanks to the wonderful nursing staff on the third floor of the west wing of Laughlin Memorial Hospital, the Smoky Mountain Home Health staff/nurses, and doctors for the wonderful care for Bob. It will never be forgotten. This ordeal was made so much easier by the love and prayers of our special neighbors, church family and many, many friends. God bless each and every one of you.
Bob is survived by his loving life partner and wife of 61 years, Aletha Nelson; a very special, loving daughter and son-in-law, Terri and George Lamons; a very special and loving son, Richard “Rick” Nelson and fiancée Debbie Hensley; Grandchildren: Dr. Brent and Christie Lamons of Knoxville, TN, Emma and David Lamons of Afton, TN, Dana Nelson of Greeneville, TN; four very special great grandchildren: Maggie, Jack, and Raney Mae Lamons of Knoxville, TN, and Dakota Smelcer of Greeneville; a sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Marilyn and Jimmy Carlton of Greeneville; a sister-in-law, Wanda Holt of Greeneville; a special ‘adopted’ daughter, Dr. Ann Chang; and several nieces and nephews.
Mr. Nelson was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. F.M. Nelson of Afton; five brothers, Charlie, John, Clarence, George, and Rev. Frank Nelson; two children, Kathy Nelson and David Nelson.
He attended and was a member of Stone Dam United Methodist Church for many years. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105 in honor of David Nelson Lamons, to Stone Dam United Methodist Church, or the charity of your choice.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, October 29, 2013 from 1-3 and 5-7 PM at Jeffers Funeral Chapel at Afton. A memorial service will be held at 7 PM following the visitation. The Rev. Sara Emmerich will officiate. A private interment will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.jeffersmortuary.com. Jeffers Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of arrangements.
Papaw had a deep passion and unusual talent for playing bluegrass music. He was an avid bluegrass picker and was known widely for being one of the best guitar pickers and singers around. He got his first guitar at the very early age of 6. He traded his brother Frank a hand full of comic books and a bicycle for a guitar. Locally, Papaw played a lot of great music with local players such as Bud Rose, Benny Sims, Thomas “Pawn Jam” Martin, Homer Ball, Harlan Miller, Kenneth Foster, Chris Hensley, Tom Bullen, “Smilin’” Jack Lane, Junior Nelson, Roy Hunt, J.C. Ward, James Waddell, Charlie Black, ‘Pepe’ Peeler, and many others. He was a member of the Harlan Miller’s Gospel Revue for many years. He had was also member of the bluegrass gospel group with Charlie Black, Doug White, Homer Ball, Dwight Hensley called Cornerstone for many years. Papaw and Mammaw (his wife Aletha--along with grandson Brent) travelled the entire southeast going to bluegrass festivals for many, many years. He was affectionately known in the northern states such as Ohio as “Tennessee Bob.” He had picked with some of the best players throughout those travels. Some of his picking partners had been Don Reno, Bill Harrell, and Carl Story. However, his most special picking sessions were always with his grandson Brent Lamons.
Bob worked hard all his life. He had done farm and tobacco work and also worked at Magnavox Company in Greeneville for 15 years. He was a craftsman and founded Nelson’s Woodworking Shop in the early 50’s. The woodworking shop has become an institution in the Afton and Chuckey community (and in Greeneville and Greene County). It would be challenging to assess what percentage of houses in Greeneville and Greene County Bob has put cabinets in, but the figure might be close to 45 or 50%. He had very little formal education but was blessed with oodles of common sense and wisdom.
The impact and influence that Papaw had on people’s lives from Greene County to Georgetown, Ohio, to Miami, FL cannot easily be realized. He was a loving father to four children, but actually helped raise many more children than just his four. He was a true patriarch in many more ways than one. Anyone who ever met him could never forget him. He was one of the toughest yet gentle people one could ever meet with a smile that nearly consumed his whole face. Those who knew or met him are better for having done so. This community and world have lost a true treasure.
Many thanks to the wonderful nursing staff on the third floor of the west wing of Laughlin Memorial Hospital, the Smoky Mountain Home Health staff/nurses, and doctors for the wonderful care for Bob. It will never be forgotten. This ordeal was made so much easier by the love and prayers of our special neighbors, church family and many, many friends. God bless each and every one of you.
Bob is survived by his loving life partner and wife of 61 years, Aletha Nelson; a very special, loving daughter and son-in-law, Terri and George Lamons; a very special and loving son, Richard “Rick” Nelson and fiancée Debbie Hensley; Grandchildren: Dr. Brent and Christie Lamons of Knoxville, TN, Emma and David Lamons of Afton, TN, Dana Nelson of Greeneville, TN; four very special great grandchildren: Maggie, Jack, and Raney Mae Lamons of Knoxville, TN, and Dakota Smelcer of Greeneville; a sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Marilyn and Jimmy Carlton of Greeneville; a sister-in-law, Wanda Holt of Greeneville; a special ‘adopted’ daughter, Dr. Ann Chang; and several nieces and nephews.
Mr. Nelson was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. F.M. Nelson of Afton; five brothers, Charlie, John, Clarence, George, and Rev. Frank Nelson; two children, Kathy Nelson and David Nelson.
He attended and was a member of Stone Dam United Methodist Church for many years. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105 in honor of David Nelson Lamons, to Stone Dam United Methodist Church, or the charity of your choice.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, October 29, 2013 from 1-3 and 5-7 PM at Jeffers Funeral Chapel at Afton. A memorial service will be held at 7 PM following the visitation. The Rev. Sara Emmerich will officiate. A private interment will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.jeffersmortuary.com. Jeffers Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of arrangements.
Tommy Harrald
Tommy Harlan Harrald, 60, Watauga, passed away Wednesday, August 28, 2013, at Johnson City Medical Center following an extended illness.
A native of Bristol, Va., he was a son of the late Albert Dean and Maudy Hall Harrald. He had lived in Carter County for a number of years.
Tommy was a Carter County Deputy from 1977 to 2003. He served in the United States Army in the Military Police.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Herbert Lynnwood Harrald.
Survivors include his wife, Joyce Elliott Harrald; two daughters, Tonia Harrald, Elizabethton, and Ava Springs and husband Douglas, Myrtle Beach, S.C.; two sons, Charles Harrald and wife Connie, Roan Mountain, and Mark Harrald, Watauga; three grandchildren, Thomas Andrew Mathes, Cody Alan Mathes and Allie Rose Harrald; five brothers and four sisters-in-law, Albert and Connie Harrald, Harvey and Gwenn Harrald and Dallas and Lana Harrald, all of Elizabethton, Jerry Harrald and Roger and Candy Harrald, all of Roan Mountain; and four sisters and two brothers-in-law, Mary Rowe, Elizabethton, Rebecca Harrald and Diane Potter and husband Rickie, all of Hampton, and Violet Hurt and husband Rufus, Bluff City. Several nieces and nephews also survive.
Funeral services for Mr. Harrald will be conducted at 2 p.m. Friday, August 30, at Memorial Funeral Chapel with Rufus Hurt officiating. Music will be provided by Richard Williams. Interment will follow in the Hicks Cemetery, Roan Mountain. Pallbearers will be selected from family and friends. Military Honors will be provided by the American Legion and the Tennessee National Guard. The family will receive friends from 1 until 2 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Condolences to the Harrald family may be e-mailed to mfc@chartertn.net.
Memorial Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.
A native of Bristol, Va., he was a son of the late Albert Dean and Maudy Hall Harrald. He had lived in Carter County for a number of years.
Tommy was a Carter County Deputy from 1977 to 2003. He served in the United States Army in the Military Police.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Herbert Lynnwood Harrald.
Survivors include his wife, Joyce Elliott Harrald; two daughters, Tonia Harrald, Elizabethton, and Ava Springs and husband Douglas, Myrtle Beach, S.C.; two sons, Charles Harrald and wife Connie, Roan Mountain, and Mark Harrald, Watauga; three grandchildren, Thomas Andrew Mathes, Cody Alan Mathes and Allie Rose Harrald; five brothers and four sisters-in-law, Albert and Connie Harrald, Harvey and Gwenn Harrald and Dallas and Lana Harrald, all of Elizabethton, Jerry Harrald and Roger and Candy Harrald, all of Roan Mountain; and four sisters and two brothers-in-law, Mary Rowe, Elizabethton, Rebecca Harrald and Diane Potter and husband Rickie, all of Hampton, and Violet Hurt and husband Rufus, Bluff City. Several nieces and nephews also survive.
Funeral services for Mr. Harrald will be conducted at 2 p.m. Friday, August 30, at Memorial Funeral Chapel with Rufus Hurt officiating. Music will be provided by Richard Williams. Interment will follow in the Hicks Cemetery, Roan Mountain. Pallbearers will be selected from family and friends. Military Honors will be provided by the American Legion and the Tennessee National Guard. The family will receive friends from 1 until 2 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Condolences to the Harrald family may be e-mailed to mfc@chartertn.net.
Memorial Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.
Dave McDonough
Rest in Peace, Dave. I've loved and admired you since we first met as teenagers and played music together at "Trail's End" and over at Steve and Bill Manley's home on Market Street. May God bless your family.
Here's the obituary published by the Press Republican:
June 13, 2013David James McDonoughPress-Republican
KEENE VALLEY — David James McDonough, 59, of Keene Valley, lost his 15-month battle with pancreatic ampullary (bile duct) cancer on June 10, 2013, in New York City.
He was born in Keene Valley on Aug. 23, 1953, the first of nine children, to his parents, James and Ellen (Jaques) McDonough. He was a doting big brother who helped lovingly care for his five sisters and two brothers. He was a graduate of Keene Central School, and attended Adirondack Community College in Glens Falls, N.Y., but returned home to be near his family.
He was well known in the community for his love of music. He participated in a number of community musicals, most memorably Emmanuel, with the Keene Valley Congregational Church, and rocked the role of Judas in Jesus Christ Superstar. He also was in a local band called Night Flight.
David married his high school sweetheart Paula Reed of Keene, N.Y. in 1979, and together they built a loving home and raised three children.
He began work at Keene Valley Hardware shortly after his return from school, first as an employee, then partner. In 2001, he purchased the store and renamed it McDonough's Valley Hardware. A true family business, often his wife and children, sister Valarie and other family members would be seen helping out behind the counter. The ownership of the hardware was one of his lifetime dreams.
David was known well throughout the Valley by residents and visitors alike for his advice on all things hardware and his kind, gentle demeanor. A true pillar of the community, he was also involved as a trustee of St Brendan's Catholic Church of Keene, and served as treasurer of the Keene Valley Fire Department, and held brief stint as Keene Valley Fire Commissioner. He also served on the Keene Town Planning Board.
His first love, however, was his family, and taking care of his home. He was a devoted grandfather in his later years. He enjoyed photography, in particular candid photos and nature photography, inspired by the mountains surrounding the town he loved. A true child at heart, he loved traveling to Walt Disney World with his family, and all things Mickey Mouse.
He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Paula, of Keene Valley; his daughter Tiffani and husband Robert Kearney, of New York City; daughter Taetum, her husband Justin Crooker, and grandchildren Matthew and Adam of Ballston Lake; son Ewen and partner Jessica Dudley of New York City; father James of Keene Valley; sisters Ellen Miller of Destin, Fla.; Valarie Warner of Keene Valley; Erin McDonough of Keene; Sheila and husband Paul Grant of Queensbury; brothers Darrin and wife Lisa of Ticonderoga; Darryl and wife Patty of Saranac Lake; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends and neighbors, who will miss him greatly. He is predeceased by his mother Ellen and sisters Doreen and Stacy, of Keene Valley.
Calling hours will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, June 13, at M.B. Clark Funeral Home in Lake Placid. A funeral Mass will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, June 14, at St Agnes Church in Lake Placid. Rev. John Yonkovig will officiate. The burial will be at Norton Cemetery in Keene, immediately following Mass. Relatives and friends are welcome to join in a gathering at The Uplands on Mason Young Lane in Keene Valley in celebration of his life and friendship immediately following the burial.
In lieu of flowers and gifts, donations can be made in honor of David to The Dr. Allyson Ocean Gastrointestinal Cancer Research Fund for David McDonough. Checks can be made out to "New York Presbyterian Hospital" with Dr. Allyson Ocean Gastrointestinal Cancer Research Fund for David McDonough" in the memo line and addressed to: Ms. Kristen Kidder, Office of Development, New York Presbyterian Hospital/Wells Cornell Medical Center, 525 East 68th Street, Box 123, New York, NY 10065.
Relatives and friends are invited to "light a candle" and share a memory with the McDonough Family at www.mbclarkfuneralhome. com. Click obituaries to open website.
The family is eternally grateful for the support and outpouring of love from David's community over these past difficult months. We have been lifted up by the love shown for David and for all of us.
Bill Gokey
William F. "Bill" Gokey of State Street, Ogdensburg passed away on June 1, 2013. Mr. Gokey was born at A. Barton Hepburn Hospital in Ogdensburg, NY, January 21, 1942, to Bessie K. Durham Gokey and William H. Gokey. Surviving him are a sister, Mrs. Virginia Gokey Ballou, 2 nieces, and numerous cousins. A brother James A. Gokey, pre-deceased him. Arrangement are with the Fox & Murray Funeral home.
There will be no showing. A Masonic graveside service will be Monday (June 3, 2013) at 4pm at Ogdensburgh Cemetery. Mr. Gokey graduated from Ogdensburg Free Academy High School, served in the U.S. Navy, and was Honorably discharged as a disabled veteran. E.J. Dailey, owner of E.J. Daily Trapper' Supplies employed him part-time after school at the age of 11 until he entered the Navy. He was a professional 5-string banjoist. He played on many network & local radio & TV shows in Canada and then went to the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tenn., where he was associated for 35 years. He played and toured the world with Bluegrass pioneer superstars Mac Wiseman, Bill Monroe, Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper, Jimmy Martin, and many others as a member of their bands and 5-string banjo player. He also toured with Red Foley, Tex Ritter, Ernie Ashworth, and other Grand Ole Opry country superstars of the time as bassist. He was a 50 year-lifetime member of A. F. M. Local 257 Nashville Association of Musicians. He was also a concert promoter and worked with Victor Lewis's Parthenon Productions of Nashville & Detroit, Larry Sanborne's Argonaut Productions of Dayton, Ohio, and Buddy Lee Agency of Nashville, Tenn. for many years.
Mr. Gokey was also a successful writer, having numerous articles published by Fur-Fish Game, Bluegrass Unlimited, Banjo News Magazine, and other international publications.
Mr. Gokey was a life member of Ogdensburg Acacian Lodge 128 Free & Accepted Masons where he served as Lodge Secretary for 12 years. The Grand Master of Masons in The State of New York personally presented him the title of Dedicated Service Award in April 2003.
Mr. Gokey's statement for this obituary: "Don't waste your money sending any flowers, sympathy cards, or giving it to some charity – you're going to need every dime when you get old, sick, and "the vultures" take everything you worked a lifetime for. I'm dead and that's it!"
There will be no showing. A Masonic graveside service will be Monday (June 3, 2013) at 4pm at Ogdensburgh Cemetery. Mr. Gokey graduated from Ogdensburg Free Academy High School, served in the U.S. Navy, and was Honorably discharged as a disabled veteran. E.J. Dailey, owner of E.J. Daily Trapper' Supplies employed him part-time after school at the age of 11 until he entered the Navy. He was a professional 5-string banjoist. He played on many network & local radio & TV shows in Canada and then went to the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tenn., where he was associated for 35 years. He played and toured the world with Bluegrass pioneer superstars Mac Wiseman, Bill Monroe, Wilma Lee & Stoney Cooper, Jimmy Martin, and many others as a member of their bands and 5-string banjo player. He also toured with Red Foley, Tex Ritter, Ernie Ashworth, and other Grand Ole Opry country superstars of the time as bassist. He was a 50 year-lifetime member of A. F. M. Local 257 Nashville Association of Musicians. He was also a concert promoter and worked with Victor Lewis's Parthenon Productions of Nashville & Detroit, Larry Sanborne's Argonaut Productions of Dayton, Ohio, and Buddy Lee Agency of Nashville, Tenn. for many years.
Mr. Gokey was also a successful writer, having numerous articles published by Fur-Fish Game, Bluegrass Unlimited, Banjo News Magazine, and other international publications.
Mr. Gokey was a life member of Ogdensburg Acacian Lodge 128 Free & Accepted Masons where he served as Lodge Secretary for 12 years. The Grand Master of Masons in The State of New York personally presented him the title of Dedicated Service Award in April 2003.
Mr. Gokey's statement for this obituary: "Don't waste your money sending any flowers, sympathy cards, or giving it to some charity – you're going to need every dime when you get old, sick, and "the vultures" take everything you worked a lifetime for. I'm dead and that's it!"
James Campbell
Mrs. Edna Pauline Poore
Mrs. Edna Pauline Poore, age 80, Jonesborough, went home to be with the Lord Wednesday, March 20, 2013, at the Johnson City Medical Center surrounded by her family.
Mrs. Poore was a native of Washington County and daughter of the late Paul & Eula McCurry Dove. In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her husband, Henry W. Poore; and son-in-law, Tim Parlier.
She was of the Christian faith and member of Midway Baptist Church, Jonesborough.
Mrs. Poore retired from Quick Cleaner Laundry. She loved photography, bluegrass music and spending time with her family.
Survivors include daughter Joann Parlier, Jonesborough; sons, Charles Poore and wife, Connie, Erwin, Johnny Poore and wife, Kelly, Gray, and Lee Poore and wife, Cindy, Johnson City; grandchildren, Joshua Poore, Johnson City, Melissa Waldrop and husband, Gregg, Erwin, Jeremy Brown, Johnson City, and Whitney Shipley and husband, Travis, Gray; great-grandchildren, Samara Waldrop and Mahayla Waldrop, both of Erwin and Khloe Shipley, Gray; and many friends.
Funeral services will be conducted at 8:00 p.m. Friday, March 22, 2013, at the Dillow-Taylor Funeral Home with Rev. Travis Holloway and Pastor Matthew Young officiating.
The family will receive friends from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Friday prior to the service.
Interment services will be conducted at 10:00 am Saturday, March 23, 2013, at Washington County Memory Gardens. Pallbearers will be Johnny Poore, Charles Poore, Lee Poore, Joshua Poore, Robert Hyder and Roger Cox.
Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.dillow-taylor.com.
Dillow-Taylor Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Jonesborough, TN; 753-3821
Read more: http://www.johnsoncitypress.com/Obituaries/article.php?id=34758#ixzz2OKf3QtoJ
Mrs. Poore was a native of Washington County and daughter of the late Paul & Eula McCurry Dove. In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her husband, Henry W. Poore; and son-in-law, Tim Parlier.
She was of the Christian faith and member of Midway Baptist Church, Jonesborough.
Mrs. Poore retired from Quick Cleaner Laundry. She loved photography, bluegrass music and spending time with her family.
Survivors include daughter Joann Parlier, Jonesborough; sons, Charles Poore and wife, Connie, Erwin, Johnny Poore and wife, Kelly, Gray, and Lee Poore and wife, Cindy, Johnson City; grandchildren, Joshua Poore, Johnson City, Melissa Waldrop and husband, Gregg, Erwin, Jeremy Brown, Johnson City, and Whitney Shipley and husband, Travis, Gray; great-grandchildren, Samara Waldrop and Mahayla Waldrop, both of Erwin and Khloe Shipley, Gray; and many friends.
Funeral services will be conducted at 8:00 p.m. Friday, March 22, 2013, at the Dillow-Taylor Funeral Home with Rev. Travis Holloway and Pastor Matthew Young officiating.
The family will receive friends from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Friday prior to the service.
Interment services will be conducted at 10:00 am Saturday, March 23, 2013, at Washington County Memory Gardens. Pallbearers will be Johnny Poore, Charles Poore, Lee Poore, Joshua Poore, Robert Hyder and Roger Cox.
Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.dillow-taylor.com.
Dillow-Taylor Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Jonesborough, TN; 753-3821
Read more: http://www.johnsoncitypress.com/Obituaries/article.php?id=34758#ixzz2OKf3QtoJ
Nick Stephenson
WILMINGTON — Paul John (Nick) Stephenson, 78, of Wilmington, died Feb. 11, 2013, at the Uihlein Living Center in Lake Placid. Paul was born in Wilmington, N.Y. on May 13, 1934, to Guy H. and Mary (Pelkey) Stephenson.
Paul worked at Marble Mountain Center and Whiteface Mountain Ski Center before joining the Wilmington Highway Department. He retired from the town in 1989 after 38 years. He was an honorary member of the Wilmington Volunteer Fire Department having been a member for over 30 years. He served as chief for six years. He was one of the first EMT members in Wilmington and served as a NYS Fire Warden.
Paul was a true, avid sportsman. He enjoyed hunting and fishing throughout the Adirondacks. He went on numerous sporting trips to Montana, Alaska, Colorado, Florida, New foundland and Quebec for moose, elk and caribou. Throughout the years, Paul enjoyed numerous camping trips and snowmo biling with family and friends. Paul spent many summers traveling from Maine to Montana, driving to Alaska twice. He enjoyed spending his years after retirement at his camp on Black Mountain.
Paul is survived by his wife Celia (Estes) of 53 years; a son Kent (Brigette) and his children, Cierra and Logan; a daughter Bethany (Gregory) Kress and their children, Kathryn and Kaitlyn, all of Wilmington. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was predeceased by his parents, brothers, Lawrence, Wm Henry, Guy; and sisters, Beatrice Lawrence, Margaret and Lucy Stephenson and Mary Cooper.
Special thanks to the great staff at AMC's renal unit in Saranac Lake and Uihlein Living Center, for their super job. Calling hours will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 14, at the Thwaits-Zaumetzer Funeral Home in Au Sable Forks. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, Feb. 15, at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Wilmington Volunteer Fire Dept.
Paul worked at Marble Mountain Center and Whiteface Mountain Ski Center before joining the Wilmington Highway Department. He retired from the town in 1989 after 38 years. He was an honorary member of the Wilmington Volunteer Fire Department having been a member for over 30 years. He served as chief for six years. He was one of the first EMT members in Wilmington and served as a NYS Fire Warden.
Paul was a true, avid sportsman. He enjoyed hunting and fishing throughout the Adirondacks. He went on numerous sporting trips to Montana, Alaska, Colorado, Florida, New foundland and Quebec for moose, elk and caribou. Throughout the years, Paul enjoyed numerous camping trips and snowmo biling with family and friends. Paul spent many summers traveling from Maine to Montana, driving to Alaska twice. He enjoyed spending his years after retirement at his camp on Black Mountain.
Paul is survived by his wife Celia (Estes) of 53 years; a son Kent (Brigette) and his children, Cierra and Logan; a daughter Bethany (Gregory) Kress and their children, Kathryn and Kaitlyn, all of Wilmington. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was predeceased by his parents, brothers, Lawrence, Wm Henry, Guy; and sisters, Beatrice Lawrence, Margaret and Lucy Stephenson and Mary Cooper.
Special thanks to the great staff at AMC's renal unit in Saranac Lake and Uihlein Living Center, for their super job. Calling hours will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 14, at the Thwaits-Zaumetzer Funeral Home in Au Sable Forks. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, Feb. 15, at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Wilmington Volunteer Fire Dept.
Harvey Tester
Cooter Williams, Me, Harvey and Mike Laws
Our dear friend Harvey Tester has passed away and we will miss him very, very much. We never saw Harvey without a friendly smile and kind gesture on our behalf. We love him and wish his family all the very best in these sad times.
Richard Lawrence
UPPER JAY — Richard E. Lawrence was born on Oct. 13, 1942, in Wilmington, N.Y., to Adrian and Bea Lawrence. He passed away at the Albany Stratton VA Medical Center on Nov. 25, 2012.
Growing up in Wilmington, Dick was a Boy Scout, a member of the Volunteer Fire Department, and active in the Methodist Church. He graduated from Lake Placid High School and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He served his country for 21 years to include a '67-'68 tour in Vietnam with the 1st Platoon, Charlie Company, 1st Battalion of Combat Engineers, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division. He also served overseas in Japan, Okinawa, and aboard ship in the Mediterranean, Atlantic, and Pacific. He served his fellow North Country veterans and their families for over 30 years through various leadership positions in American Legion Post 504 in Au Sable Forks and Marine Corps League Detachment 219 in Plattsburgh.
Dick was an expert marksman and avid history buff. He was proud of his Adirondack heritage and worked to educate all who would listen about our history. He greatly enjoyed old-time country music and bluegrass. Many North Country residents referred to him as "Uncle Dick." Spending time with family and friends meant the world to him.
His survivors include his former wife, Phyllis; and his two children, Richard and his wife Stephanie, Gregory and his wife Laura. He was a proud grandpa to six grandchildren, Phillip and his wife Danielle, Rachel, Sarah, Noah, Hannah, and Zachary. He is also survived by four siblings and their spouses, Adrian Lawrence and his wife Andrea, Allan Lawrence and his wife Judith, Cheryl Strack, Brenda Balsley and her husband James.
Friends may call from 7 to 9 p.m. on Thursday at the Thwaits-Zaumetzer Funeral Home in Au Sable Forks. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, at Whiteface Community United Methodist Church, Wilmington. A graveside ceremony with military honors will follow at the Haselton Cemetery.
Those who wish may contribute in his memory to the American Legion Post 504 in care of Thwaits-Zaumetzer Funeral Home.
Home in Heaven -- see you soon. Semper Fi.
Growing up in Wilmington, Dick was a Boy Scout, a member of the Volunteer Fire Department, and active in the Methodist Church. He graduated from Lake Placid High School and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He served his country for 21 years to include a '67-'68 tour in Vietnam with the 1st Platoon, Charlie Company, 1st Battalion of Combat Engineers, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division. He also served overseas in Japan, Okinawa, and aboard ship in the Mediterranean, Atlantic, and Pacific. He served his fellow North Country veterans and their families for over 30 years through various leadership positions in American Legion Post 504 in Au Sable Forks and Marine Corps League Detachment 219 in Plattsburgh.
Dick was an expert marksman and avid history buff. He was proud of his Adirondack heritage and worked to educate all who would listen about our history. He greatly enjoyed old-time country music and bluegrass. Many North Country residents referred to him as "Uncle Dick." Spending time with family and friends meant the world to him.
His survivors include his former wife, Phyllis; and his two children, Richard and his wife Stephanie, Gregory and his wife Laura. He was a proud grandpa to six grandchildren, Phillip and his wife Danielle, Rachel, Sarah, Noah, Hannah, and Zachary. He is also survived by four siblings and their spouses, Adrian Lawrence and his wife Andrea, Allan Lawrence and his wife Judith, Cheryl Strack, Brenda Balsley and her husband James.
Friends may call from 7 to 9 p.m. on Thursday at the Thwaits-Zaumetzer Funeral Home in Au Sable Forks. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, at Whiteface Community United Methodist Church, Wilmington. A graveside ceremony with military honors will follow at the Haselton Cemetery.
Those who wish may contribute in his memory to the American Legion Post 504 in care of Thwaits-Zaumetzer Funeral Home.
Home in Heaven -- see you soon. Semper Fi.
Wayne Bousquet
BEEKMANTOWN — Wayne L. Bousquet, 77, of Hoosick Falls, formerly of Beekmantown and Moore Haven, Fla., passed away Sunday, July 29, 2012, at Centers for Living and Rehabilitation in Bennington, Vt., with family by his side. He was born in Plattsburgh, N.Y., on Nov. 14, 1934, the son of Isadore and Ellen (LaPorte) Bousquet.
Wayne was employed at Georgia-Pacific in Plattsburgh until his retirement in 1995. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, four wheeling, music and traveling. He taught a hunter safety course for many years, was a member of the Bennington, Vt. Moose Lodge #1233, and was a former member of the Beekmantown Fire Department. Wayne volunteered at CVPH Medical Center and received the Wilfred Butler award. He played the mandolin and many instruments. Wayne was an avid archer and won many awards. While living in Fla., he was in a volunteer patrol unit with the Moore Haven Sheriff's Department.
He is survived by his wife, Nancy (Rice) Bousquet of Hoosick Falls; three sons, Terry Bousquet and his wife Linda of Beekmantown, Edward Bousquet and companion Karen Campbell of Morrisonville, John Bousquet and his wife Sandy of Beekmantown; four daughters, Gladys Trudeau of Morrisonville, Lois Brown and her husband Allen of Treadwell's Mills, Tina Wood of Plattsburgh, and Tammy Bousquet of Plattsburgh; a sister, Ann Trudeau and her husband Randy of Morrisonville; his stepchildren, Ramona Chase of Ludlow, Vt., Sterling Foster of Hoosick Falls, N.Y., Heidi Tiller and her husband Mark of Woodford, Vt., Lance Foster and his wife Tammy of Arlington, Vt., Preston Foster and his wife Mary of Bennington, Vt., Heather Patrie and her husband Russ of Troy, N.Y., John Foster of Springfield, Vt., and James Foster of Manchester, Vt.; several grandchildren; stepgrandchildren; several great-grandchildren; great-stepgrandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
He is predeceased by his parents; his first wife, Etta (Lombard) Bousquet; a brother, Warren Bousquet; and a son-in-law, Robert Trudeau Jr.
Calling hours will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, July 31, at the Brown Funeral Home, 29 Broad St., Plattsburgh, N.Y.
A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 1, at St. Joseph's Church in West Chazy. Interment will follow in the parish cemetery.
Memorial donations may be offered to the charity of one's choice.
Arrangements are entrusted to Brown Funeral Home, 29 Broad St., Plattsburgh, NY 12901.
Online condolences and memorial candles may be offered at www.brownfuneralhomeinc.com.
Wayne was employed at Georgia-Pacific in Plattsburgh until his retirement in 1995. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, four wheeling, music and traveling. He taught a hunter safety course for many years, was a member of the Bennington, Vt. Moose Lodge #1233, and was a former member of the Beekmantown Fire Department. Wayne volunteered at CVPH Medical Center and received the Wilfred Butler award. He played the mandolin and many instruments. Wayne was an avid archer and won many awards. While living in Fla., he was in a volunteer patrol unit with the Moore Haven Sheriff's Department.
He is survived by his wife, Nancy (Rice) Bousquet of Hoosick Falls; three sons, Terry Bousquet and his wife Linda of Beekmantown, Edward Bousquet and companion Karen Campbell of Morrisonville, John Bousquet and his wife Sandy of Beekmantown; four daughters, Gladys Trudeau of Morrisonville, Lois Brown and her husband Allen of Treadwell's Mills, Tina Wood of Plattsburgh, and Tammy Bousquet of Plattsburgh; a sister, Ann Trudeau and her husband Randy of Morrisonville; his stepchildren, Ramona Chase of Ludlow, Vt., Sterling Foster of Hoosick Falls, N.Y., Heidi Tiller and her husband Mark of Woodford, Vt., Lance Foster and his wife Tammy of Arlington, Vt., Preston Foster and his wife Mary of Bennington, Vt., Heather Patrie and her husband Russ of Troy, N.Y., John Foster of Springfield, Vt., and James Foster of Manchester, Vt.; several grandchildren; stepgrandchildren; several great-grandchildren; great-stepgrandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
He is predeceased by his parents; his first wife, Etta (Lombard) Bousquet; a brother, Warren Bousquet; and a son-in-law, Robert Trudeau Jr.
Calling hours will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, July 31, at the Brown Funeral Home, 29 Broad St., Plattsburgh, N.Y.
A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 1, at St. Joseph's Church in West Chazy. Interment will follow in the parish cemetery.
Memorial donations may be offered to the charity of one's choice.
Arrangements are entrusted to Brown Funeral Home, 29 Broad St., Plattsburgh, NY 12901.
Online condolences and memorial candles may be offered at www.brownfuneralhomeinc.com.
Robert Crigger, fiddle; unknown guitarist; Gary Taylor, bass; Ron Duncan, mandolin; Eddy Ray, mandolin; Fred Warner, banjo
Robert Crigger
Mr. Robert Crigger, age 69, passed away Saturday, July 21, 2012 at his residence.
Mr. Crigger was born in Baltimore, Maryland, son of the late Robert and Ruby Onks Crigger.
He was of the Baptist faith, and he was a member of the Citizens Police Academy, in Johnson City.
Robert was an accomplished musician. He was a former member of Adjunct Faulty, East Tennessee State University and he had played all over the United States. He had performed at such places as the White House in Washington D.C., Wembley Music Festival in London, England, the Irish Country Music Festival, Castle Blainey, Ireland. He performed with Bobby Bare, Tom T. Hall, Donna Fargo, and Jean Shepard just to name a few. He retired after playing on W.S.M.’s Grand Ole’ Opry in Nashville where he preformed over 3,000 times.
He loved his music and had so many friends associated with the industry.
Survivors include one son, Robert Austin Crigger, Huntington Beach, California, his daughter, Darla Rose Loflin, Columbus Ohio, three brothers, Rex Crigger, Flagpond, Ronald Crigger, Johnson City, Ralph Crigger, Nashville, and two sisters, Karen Kimes, Gray, and Sherry Toothman, Lerna, Illinois.
Memorial Services will be conducted 8:00 PM, Thursday, July 26, 2012 at Dillow-Taylor Funeral Home with Rev. Lenny Smith officiating. The family will receive friends from 6:00 – 8:00 PM Thursday prior to the service.
Pallbearers will be family and friends.
Condolences may be sent to the Crigger family online at www.dillow-taylor.com.
Dillow-Taylor Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Jonesborough, 753-3821
Mr. Crigger was born in Baltimore, Maryland, son of the late Robert and Ruby Onks Crigger.
He was of the Baptist faith, and he was a member of the Citizens Police Academy, in Johnson City.
Robert was an accomplished musician. He was a former member of Adjunct Faulty, East Tennessee State University and he had played all over the United States. He had performed at such places as the White House in Washington D.C., Wembley Music Festival in London, England, the Irish Country Music Festival, Castle Blainey, Ireland. He performed with Bobby Bare, Tom T. Hall, Donna Fargo, and Jean Shepard just to name a few. He retired after playing on W.S.M.’s Grand Ole’ Opry in Nashville where he preformed over 3,000 times.
He loved his music and had so many friends associated with the industry.
Survivors include one son, Robert Austin Crigger, Huntington Beach, California, his daughter, Darla Rose Loflin, Columbus Ohio, three brothers, Rex Crigger, Flagpond, Ronald Crigger, Johnson City, Ralph Crigger, Nashville, and two sisters, Karen Kimes, Gray, and Sherry Toothman, Lerna, Illinois.
Memorial Services will be conducted 8:00 PM, Thursday, July 26, 2012 at Dillow-Taylor Funeral Home with Rev. Lenny Smith officiating. The family will receive friends from 6:00 – 8:00 PM Thursday prior to the service.
Pallbearers will be family and friends.
Condolences may be sent to the Crigger family online at www.dillow-taylor.com.
Dillow-Taylor Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Jonesborough, 753-3821
Sam Tidwell, Rest in Peace
Warner H. Thibodeau A.K.A “Sam Tidwell” 75, of Cranston, Rhode Island died at home Monday April 30, 2012. He was pre-deceased by his first wife Dorothy (Cournoyer) Thibodeau, brothers Robert D. Thibodeau, William H. Parker, and a sister Mary Parker. His wife and children were at his bedside when he passed. He leaves his beloved wife Edith (Dwyer) Thibodeau of Cranston, a brother William H. Thibodeau of Maine, eight children, 17 grand-children, and eight great-grandchildren. Mr. Thibodeau was a devoted father to his children David, Marc, and William Thibodeau, Linda Sawyer, Kathleen Richards, Debra (Thompson) Roberts, Frank and James Thompson. Warner placed special emphasis on his children’s education stressing the importance of finishing high school and college. He was born on August 11,1936 in Chepachet, Rhode Island to the late William H. and Clara L. (Ducharme) Thibodeau. He was educated in the Burrillville and Glocester Public School systems before joining the Air Force where he was an Airborne radar specialist. “Sam” as he was more commonly known, was a bombardier and gunner on a B-26 in the Korean War. He attained his final rank of Staff Sergeant when he returned to Texas to complete his tour of duty. While working full time at Raytheon he earned an Associate Degree in Electrical Engineering. Through the years, he had several occupations including owning The Trading Post in Chepachet where he bought and sold antiques. He owned various music stores where he taught eager students how to play stringed instruments. In addition he bought, sold, and repaired instruments. His love of music was instilled in him by his father who was a concert violinist for the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra. This fascination brought him on a journey that he traveled for well over fifty years. Beginning in 1955, his first bands were of the Country genre, but he kept looking for other musicians interested in Bluegrass music where he could play banjo. By the mid ‘60s he formed his first Bluegrass band, The Cedar Mountain Boys with his younger brother Bobby who learned to play bass with his encouragement to become their bass player. In between working with his own bands, He went on tour with notables such as Red Smiley in 1966, Don Stover in 1973 and Jud Strunk in 1975. After leaving Rhode Island, Sam lived for many years in Maine until he and Edie retired to Florida where he joined other bands, most notably, The Cypress Creek Band. The Kennebec Valley Boys was probably the most well known of his bands and had a following throughout Maine. In addition to his musical abilities he was most remembered for his entertaining stories told on stage. His showmanship made him the natural entertainer and spokesman for the bands. In 1975 The Kennebec Valley Boys were honored with the Best Bluegrass Band in Maine award by the Maine Country Music Association. Sam, a founding member of the KVB, was playing mandolin at the time. Since he was an accomplished musician able to play violin/fiddle, banjo, guitar, mandolin, bass [and the piano when he was near one] he was a valuable asset to each group. His vocal harmony part of choice was baritone. He made many recordings throughout the years with several bands. He wrote several songs including The Last Log Drive which was used as background music for a Maine documentary and is listed in the Library of Congress. Sam and Edie were interviewed by International Bluegrass Music Association [IBMA] as Pioneers of Bluegrass music in the country. Considered a New England Bluegrass pioneer, he was awarded the Joe Val Heritage Award in 2011. The Bluegrass Association of Maine also recognized him as a pioneer of Bluegrass music. A tribute to Sam was given in his honor June 2009 in Sterling, Connecticut where several hundred fans attended a day of music dedicated to Sam who joined in with various bands on stage. Even though he has passed, the Thibodeau music tradition is carried on by his three sons, David, Marc, Bill and several grandchildren. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, you may make donations to Home and Hospice Care of Rhode Island, 1085 N Main Street, Providence, RI 02904.
Earl Scruggs
Earl was born on January 6th, 1924 and he passed away March 28th, 2012. I had occasion to visit backstage with him when he played in Lake Placid, New York at the Arena with the "Earl Scruggs Revue". I also shared a breakfast with him in Keene Valley, NY where it was just the two of us for about a half-hour having a grand old time talking about logging in the Adirondacks, Tourism, and of course, "Banjo Pickin'". He wished me well on my banjo book, too. That was just like a pat on the back from the "Grand Master", himself. The more I've learned over the years about the intricacies of banjo rolls and back up structures, the more I've grown to appreciate (and celebrate) the genius of Earl Scruggs. I wish Gary and Randy and their families the very deepest condolences on their loss. May Earl Rest In Peace.
Kenny Baker
Rick Moon
Richard A. Moon
Richard A. Moon, Galway, NY.
Richard A. Moon, 62, of Galway passed away at Albany Medical Center, Friday, after a short illness. He was born in Glens Falls and grew up in Chestertown and Warrensburg. He had lived in Galway for the past 25 years. He was an electrical inspector for MDIA of Watervliet and also worked for The Inspector in Chateaugay, NY. He played in the Cedar Ridge Band with Butch Ryan, Ken Meyer, and Al Queen. He was a member of the Adirondack Blue Grass League. He was on the Board of the International Association of Electrical Inspectors. Richard is survived by his wife of 24 years, Colleen E. Moon; his sons, Eric (Holly) Moon of Neche, ND, David Moon of Grand Forks, ND, William Moon of Grand Forks, ND and Patrick Dropper of Galway; his brother, Russell Moon of Texas; his sister, Robin (Vincent) Clevenger of Highland, NY; his grandchildren, Madilyn, Brandon, and Kane; his great-grandson, Noah; his father and mother-in-law, John and Nellie Dropper; several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and all his friends, including his bluegrass family. The funeral will be Thursday at 12 noon from the Wheeler Funeral Home, 25 Hyde Blvd., Ballston Spa. There will be calling hours at the funeral home before the service on Thursday from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. Burial with full military honors will be held at Saratoga National Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, 440 New Karner Rd., Albany, NY 12205 or to the charity of your choice. Arrangements are by the Wheeler Funeral Home.
Published in The Daily Gazette Co. on April 30, 2012
Personal note from Fred Warner:
Mary and I extend our deepest condolences to Colleen and her family for such a tragic loss. We both loved Rick very much as a friend. I traveled the highways and byways for quite a few summers with Rick in the band "Cedar Ridge". I also worked with him in the capacity of Electrical Inspector. He was a super guy. A friend for all those years and I will miss him deeply. Rest In Peace, my friend!
Richard A. Moon, Galway, NY.
Richard A. Moon, 62, of Galway passed away at Albany Medical Center, Friday, after a short illness. He was born in Glens Falls and grew up in Chestertown and Warrensburg. He had lived in Galway for the past 25 years. He was an electrical inspector for MDIA of Watervliet and also worked for The Inspector in Chateaugay, NY. He played in the Cedar Ridge Band with Butch Ryan, Ken Meyer, and Al Queen. He was a member of the Adirondack Blue Grass League. He was on the Board of the International Association of Electrical Inspectors. Richard is survived by his wife of 24 years, Colleen E. Moon; his sons, Eric (Holly) Moon of Neche, ND, David Moon of Grand Forks, ND, William Moon of Grand Forks, ND and Patrick Dropper of Galway; his brother, Russell Moon of Texas; his sister, Robin (Vincent) Clevenger of Highland, NY; his grandchildren, Madilyn, Brandon, and Kane; his great-grandson, Noah; his father and mother-in-law, John and Nellie Dropper; several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and all his friends, including his bluegrass family. The funeral will be Thursday at 12 noon from the Wheeler Funeral Home, 25 Hyde Blvd., Ballston Spa. There will be calling hours at the funeral home before the service on Thursday from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. Burial with full military honors will be held at Saratoga National Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, 440 New Karner Rd., Albany, NY 12205 or to the charity of your choice. Arrangements are by the Wheeler Funeral Home.
Published in The Daily Gazette Co. on April 30, 2012
Personal note from Fred Warner:
Mary and I extend our deepest condolences to Colleen and her family for such a tragic loss. We both loved Rick very much as a friend. I traveled the highways and byways for quite a few summers with Rick in the band "Cedar Ridge". I also worked with him in the capacity of Electrical Inspector. He was a super guy. A friend for all those years and I will miss him deeply. Rest In Peace, my friend!
Richie Steenburn
Mary and I were very saddened to learn of the passing of our good friend Richie Steenburn. We extend our deepest condolences to his wife Audrey and to their family. I so much enjoyed listening to Richie play banjo over the many years that I knew him. His talent for "backup" banjo was unmatched. I can remember so many nights laying in my motorhome relaxing after a long day and night of picking and listening to Richie playing banjo off in the distance. I could tell his style from anywhere. He was a very accomplished musician who was very modest about his playing abilities. I once needed a banjo in a big hurry to fill in for a banjo picker for the band Cedar Ridge and Richie volunteered to let me take his 1948 Gibson gold-plated banjo right on stage right then and there, no questions asked. He later sold me a 1963 "Bowtie" banjo for a good fair price saying that he wanted me to be the one to own such a nice banjo. I'll never forget his kindness, talent and friendship. God bless you Audrey in your loss. We'll all miss him.
Timothy Wayne Moore
Tim was one of the very first friends Mary and I made when we first moved here and began attending the Bluegrass jams at the Rheatown Market in Rheatown, TN. His keen sense of humor and wit will be missed by so many friends he had. Tim was a wonderful man and we will miss him dearly. He was such a likeable guy. Rest in Peace, our friend.
08/23/1957 - 12/28/2011
Lois "Aggie" Perkins
The following obituary was taken from the Press Republican of Plattsburgh, NY. "Aggie" was the beloved mother of my very close friends Donald and Phyllis (Ezero) Perkins and Phillip Perkins and their families. My heart goes out to them in this time of loss.
PLATTSBURGH — Lois Mabel Lawrence Perkins, aka "Aggie," age 100, passed away at the CVPH Medical Center, Plattsburgh, N.Y., on Nov. 22, 2011.
Born in Wilmington on May 23, 1911, she was the daughter of Leslie and Mabel Stringham Lawrence.
Lois was a resident of Lake Placid for many years. In addition to being a homemaker, she worked as a chambermaid for various motels in the Lake Placid area, cleaned summer camps for the S.S. Pierce family, the Honorable Judge Joseph Proskauer, Elizabeth "Kate" Smith and Kate's manager Ted Collins, worked at Camp Minnowbrook, aka "The Music Trail" and was a nurses aid at Uihlein Mercy Center Nursing Home. Lois moved to Plattsburgh in 1979. The highlight of her working career was the time spent at Little Caesar's Pizza. She started there in December of 1982 and retired (a second time) in 1996 at the ripe age of 85. She was a founding member of the Perkins Family Band and played piano for many square dances in the North Country. She loved music and was always one of the first to get out on the dance floor.
Survivors include her children: Philip (Sharon) Perkins of Lake Placid, Donald (Pat) Perkins of Chazy, Dewey (Emilie) Perkins of Plattsburgh, Phyllis (Joseph) Ezero of Plattsburgh; ten grandchildren: Lois Fischer, Philip Perkins Jr., Linda Reyell, Danielle Perkins, Melissa Perkins, Donald Perkins Jr., Daryl Perkins, Donnell Perkins, Daniel Ezero and Lesley Ezero; 19 great-grandchildren; and two Great-great-grandchildren; her sister, Betty (Jim) Safford of Scotia; and many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by a brother-in-law, Gerald (Mary Jane) Perkins of North Carolina and Tennessee.
She was predeceased by her husband, Francis Perkins, on July 28, 1979; one son, David Perkins on March 9, 2011; two children in early infancy; and one grandson, Brian Perkins, on Aug. 28, 1980; three brothers: Lee Lawrence, Herbert Lawrence and David Lawrence; and six sisters: Laura Haselton, Virginia Mitchell, Josephine Horning, Bernice Cook, Alice Bickford and Luella Ogden.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of ones choice. Relatives and friends are invited to join in a celebration of Lois' life at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 10, at the Clark Funeral Home in Lake Placid. The funeral will follow at noon at the funeral home with Pastor Michael Saunders, Crossway Community Church, Willow Grove, Pa., officiating. Burial will be in the North Elba Cemetery.
Dave Weaver.
Dave loved to play at the Rheatown Store in Rheatown and at the Sunshine Kitchen in Greeneville. He was very quiet and laid back and mostly played along with others, although once in a while when pressed to take the lead, he would sing a couple of his favorites. I enjoyed him very much. He was a true gentleman and I will miss him. He will be missed by all the many musicians and friends he's touched along the way. May you rest in Peace, Dave.
John Tolbert.
John P. Tolbert September 15, 2011 Adirondack Daily Enterprise SARANAC LAKE - John Patrick Tolbert, 87, a lifelong resident of Saranac Lake passed into eternal rest on Sept. 13, 2011 at C.V.P.H Medical Center in Plattsburgh.
Born May 6, 1924 in Saranac Lake, John was the son of Chester and Elizabeth (Coulon) Tolbert. His boyhood was filled with many beloved pets and adventures in the great outdoors. He spent his summers at the fire tower on Ampersand Mountain where his father was the fire observer.
A graduate of St. Bernard's School and Saranac Lake High School, John was a Cavalry soldier in the United States Army during World War II seeing action throughout the Pacific Theater. After his honorable discharge from the army, John was in the first graduating class of Paul Smith's College. He then went on to earn his bachelor's and master's degree in bacteriology from Syracuse University.
Throughout his career as a Clinical Laboratory Director, John worked at the Saranac Lake General Hospital, Lake Placid Hospital, Elizabethtown Community Hospital and the Keene Valley Hospital. An avid horseman and hunter as well as a talented musician, John will be remembered by all who knew him for his quick wit, his story telling genius, and above all for his abiding kindness.
Special thanks to the staff at CVPH for the compassion and care they provided to John and his family in his final days.
He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law Janet and Brian Howard of Brunswick; his granddaughter Kate Siobhan Howard of Brooklyn; his grandson Corporal Eamon Conor Howard of Fort Lewis, Wash.; his granddaughter Anne Elizabeth Howard of Brunswick; his nephew and niece Hugh and Marie Law of Saranac Lake; his longtime companion Eleanor Gauthier of Saranac Lake; as well as many dear nieces, nephews, cousins and brother and sister-in-laws.
John was predeceased by beloved wife Dorothy Marie Sawyer Tolbert.
Calling hours will take place from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 16 at the Fortune-Keough Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian burial will take place at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 17 at St. Bernard's Church. Burial will follow at St. Bernard's Cemetery in Saranac Lake.
Friends wishing to remember John Patrick Tolbert may make memorial contributions to Tri-Lakes Humane Society in care of the funeral home. Family and friends can also share their memories and sign the online guestbook at fortunekeoughfuneralhome.com.
Born May 6, 1924 in Saranac Lake, John was the son of Chester and Elizabeth (Coulon) Tolbert. His boyhood was filled with many beloved pets and adventures in the great outdoors. He spent his summers at the fire tower on Ampersand Mountain where his father was the fire observer.
A graduate of St. Bernard's School and Saranac Lake High School, John was a Cavalry soldier in the United States Army during World War II seeing action throughout the Pacific Theater. After his honorable discharge from the army, John was in the first graduating class of Paul Smith's College. He then went on to earn his bachelor's and master's degree in bacteriology from Syracuse University.
Throughout his career as a Clinical Laboratory Director, John worked at the Saranac Lake General Hospital, Lake Placid Hospital, Elizabethtown Community Hospital and the Keene Valley Hospital. An avid horseman and hunter as well as a talented musician, John will be remembered by all who knew him for his quick wit, his story telling genius, and above all for his abiding kindness.
Special thanks to the staff at CVPH for the compassion and care they provided to John and his family in his final days.
He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law Janet and Brian Howard of Brunswick; his granddaughter Kate Siobhan Howard of Brooklyn; his grandson Corporal Eamon Conor Howard of Fort Lewis, Wash.; his granddaughter Anne Elizabeth Howard of Brunswick; his nephew and niece Hugh and Marie Law of Saranac Lake; his longtime companion Eleanor Gauthier of Saranac Lake; as well as many dear nieces, nephews, cousins and brother and sister-in-laws.
John was predeceased by beloved wife Dorothy Marie Sawyer Tolbert.
Calling hours will take place from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 16 at the Fortune-Keough Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian burial will take place at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 17 at St. Bernard's Church. Burial will follow at St. Bernard's Cemetery in Saranac Lake.
Friends wishing to remember John Patrick Tolbert may make memorial contributions to Tri-Lakes Humane Society in care of the funeral home. Family and friends can also share their memories and sign the online guestbook at fortunekeoughfuneralhome.com.
James H. Miller, Jr.
Shortly after moving here, Mary and I both made friends with James Miller. He was a talented musician and a truly gifted songwriter. We both enjoyed his friendship, talent, honesty and humor. James passed away from a massive heart attack Monday, 26th of July, 2011. We will miss him very much. May he rest in Peace.
Tim Farrell
Lucky Tim Farrell
SOUTH CHINA -- Lucky Tim Farrell, 72, of South China died Tuesday, Oct. 19, 2010, at his home, surrounded by his family and friends. He was born in Augusta, one of six children of Alfred and Marie Bourg Farrell. Lucky was a floor consultant, but his true love was playing the fiddle, which he did for more than 60 years. He was self-employed.He loved to hunt and fish, driving his motor home to the Jackman area to outfish Dad (Carl Rideout). He and his wife, Kandy, owned and organized Weeks Mills in Music festivals for community purposes, which they did for 15 years. He was well-known for his fiddle playing. He had been playing the fiddle since the age of 8, when he played backup on WRDO radio in Augusta. During his high school days, he and his brother Tommy put together a road show and played Grange halls, churches and high schools in the area. After high school, he went to work for Curly O'Brien on Channel 2 in Bangor. He worked with Shorty Thomas and the Country Caravan and Fred Pike and the Kennebec Valley Boys on Channel 5, doing double shows with many artists such as Patsy Cline, Hank Snow, Bill Monroe, Doc Williams, Little Jimmy Dickens and many others. He played for the Porter Wagner show while traveling in Canada. In more recent years, he had played from Maine to Florida with several bands and in 1979 was backup for Doc Williams in Wheeling, W.Va. He spent time in Nashville doing studio recordings and worked with the legendary Buddy Spicher on his radio show, playing the twin fiddle.
Tim won the New England Fiddle Championship in 1970. In 1981 he won the Maine Country Music Association Instrumentalist of the Year. He was awarded Maine's Best Country Music Songwriter and Best Recording by Down East Country Music Association in 1982, Instrumentalist of the Year 2009, Living Legend 2009, Proclamation from State of Maine and many other awards. He had recorded two singles and six CDs.
Lucky and his wife were foster parents for more than 10 years. Their love of children and the need to help others made them both very happy. He is survived by the love of his life, his wife, Karlene Ann Farrell, of South China; six daughters, Debbie Farrell of Florida, Kary Farrell of North Carolina, Kelly Cloutier and her husband, Adam, of Palermo, Katina Paquette of China, Kristi Albert and her husband, Kurt, of Gorham and Bobbi-Jo McKinnis and her companion, Craig, of Windsor; 17 grandchildren; three greatgrandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
Visiting hours will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 22, at Staples Funeral Home, 53 Brunswick Ave., Gardiner where a funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday. Burial will follow in Litchfield Plains Cemetery.
Published in Kennebec Journal on October 21, 2010
Lucky Farrell Obituary: Lucky Farrell’s Obituary by the Kennebec Journal. http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/mainetoday-kennebecjournal/obituary-...
SOUTH CHINA -- Lucky Tim Farrell, 72, of South China died Tuesday, Oct. 19, 2010, at his home, surrounded by his family and friends. He was born in Augusta, one of six children of Alfred and Marie Bourg Farrell. Lucky was a floor consultant, but his true love was playing the fiddle, which he did for more than 60 years. He was self-employed.He loved to hunt and fish, driving his motor home to the Jackman area to outfish Dad (Carl Rideout). He and his wife, Kandy, owned and organized Weeks Mills in Music festivals for community purposes, which they did for 15 years. He was well-known for his fiddle playing. He had been playing the fiddle since the age of 8, when he played backup on WRDO radio in Augusta. During his high school days, he and his brother Tommy put together a road show and played Grange halls, churches and high schools in the area. After high school, he went to work for Curly O'Brien on Channel 2 in Bangor. He worked with Shorty Thomas and the Country Caravan and Fred Pike and the Kennebec Valley Boys on Channel 5, doing double shows with many artists such as Patsy Cline, Hank Snow, Bill Monroe, Doc Williams, Little Jimmy Dickens and many others. He played for the Porter Wagner show while traveling in Canada. In more recent years, he had played from Maine to Florida with several bands and in 1979 was backup for Doc Williams in Wheeling, W.Va. He spent time in Nashville doing studio recordings and worked with the legendary Buddy Spicher on his radio show, playing the twin fiddle.
Tim won the New England Fiddle Championship in 1970. In 1981 he won the Maine Country Music Association Instrumentalist of the Year. He was awarded Maine's Best Country Music Songwriter and Best Recording by Down East Country Music Association in 1982, Instrumentalist of the Year 2009, Living Legend 2009, Proclamation from State of Maine and many other awards. He had recorded two singles and six CDs.
Lucky and his wife were foster parents for more than 10 years. Their love of children and the need to help others made them both very happy. He is survived by the love of his life, his wife, Karlene Ann Farrell, of South China; six daughters, Debbie Farrell of Florida, Kary Farrell of North Carolina, Kelly Cloutier and her husband, Adam, of Palermo, Katina Paquette of China, Kristi Albert and her husband, Kurt, of Gorham and Bobbi-Jo McKinnis and her companion, Craig, of Windsor; 17 grandchildren; three greatgrandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
Visiting hours will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 22, at Staples Funeral Home, 53 Brunswick Ave., Gardiner where a funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday. Burial will follow in Litchfield Plains Cemetery.
Published in Kennebec Journal on October 21, 2010
Lucky Farrell Obituary: Lucky Farrell’s Obituary by the Kennebec Journal. http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/mainetoday-kennebecjournal/obituary-...
Pete Richardson
SARANAC LAKE — Wallace Ernest “Peter” Richardson, 74, of Jay, passed away at the Adirondack Medical Center following a heart attack on Monday, Feb. 9, 2009.
He was born in Keene Valley on Nov. 21, 1934, the oldest of four children born to Gerald and Hazel Bruce Richardson, and was educated in AuSable Valley schools. He later studied art for two years with Molly Lennon at the School of Art in Plattsburgh.
Peter worked as a Corrections Officer at the New York State Prison in Dannemora for 25 years, and also worked part time as a guard for the Bums Detective Agency.
During the 1970s, his community service included coaching women’s softball and serving as a leader for Explorer Scouts Troop 54 in Au Sable Forks. He also founded the Samurai Karate Association in Keeseville.
In 1988, he married the former Wanita Green of Peru, and they lived on the Valley Road in Jay. They enjoyed fishing trips, bluegrass festivals, home renovation projects and hosting musical gatherings at their home “Cro-Mo-Kee.”
An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed hiking, camping, hunting and fishing. His hobbies included writing poetry, painting, karate and bluegrass music. He was an accomplished musician, and played mandolin, bass, guitar and dobro. Throughout the years, he performed in several bands and enjoyed field picking at festivals with his friends and many well-known bluegrass recording artists. He was a member of the Adirondack Mountain Bluegrass League.
He was extremely proud of his Native American heritage, and was chairman of the Abenaki Mazipskwik Nation of Swanton, Vermont. He enjoyed attending powwows with his wife, sharing Native American lore and the Mohawk language.
He is survived by his devoted wife Wanita; son and daughter-in-law Rocky and Celia Richardson of Au Sable Forks; granddaughter Jessi Richardson of Clintonville; step-grandson Craig Mitchell of Lake Katrine; stepdaughter Farrah Nephew and her fiance Adam Whitney of Westport; stepsons Gary Nephew and his wife Sara of Detroit, Mich., John Bryant of Greenville, Tenn., and Robert Bryant of Plattsburgh; his former wife and mother of his son, Shelby Payro Richardson of Black Brook; a brother Tom Richardson, his wife Darling and their son Tommy; his sisters Nancy Richardson Marrs and Juanita Richardson Daby, both of Upper Jay; many nieces and nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews and countless friends.
He was predeceased by his parents and a stepdaughter Beverly Bryant in 2000.
A memorial service will be held at the convenience of the family, time and place to be announced at a late date. In lieu of flowers, donations toward a memorial garden may be sent to: The Peter Richardson Memorial Garden Fund, 36 Valley Road, Jay, NY 12941. Funeral arrangements are in care of the Fortune-Keough Funeral Home. Family and friends may share their memories and sign the online guestbook at fortunekeoughfuneralhome.com.
He was born in Keene Valley on Nov. 21, 1934, the oldest of four children born to Gerald and Hazel Bruce Richardson, and was educated in AuSable Valley schools. He later studied art for two years with Molly Lennon at the School of Art in Plattsburgh.
Peter worked as a Corrections Officer at the New York State Prison in Dannemora for 25 years, and also worked part time as a guard for the Bums Detective Agency.
During the 1970s, his community service included coaching women’s softball and serving as a leader for Explorer Scouts Troop 54 in Au Sable Forks. He also founded the Samurai Karate Association in Keeseville.
In 1988, he married the former Wanita Green of Peru, and they lived on the Valley Road in Jay. They enjoyed fishing trips, bluegrass festivals, home renovation projects and hosting musical gatherings at their home “Cro-Mo-Kee.”
An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed hiking, camping, hunting and fishing. His hobbies included writing poetry, painting, karate and bluegrass music. He was an accomplished musician, and played mandolin, bass, guitar and dobro. Throughout the years, he performed in several bands and enjoyed field picking at festivals with his friends and many well-known bluegrass recording artists. He was a member of the Adirondack Mountain Bluegrass League.
He was extremely proud of his Native American heritage, and was chairman of the Abenaki Mazipskwik Nation of Swanton, Vermont. He enjoyed attending powwows with his wife, sharing Native American lore and the Mohawk language.
He is survived by his devoted wife Wanita; son and daughter-in-law Rocky and Celia Richardson of Au Sable Forks; granddaughter Jessi Richardson of Clintonville; step-grandson Craig Mitchell of Lake Katrine; stepdaughter Farrah Nephew and her fiance Adam Whitney of Westport; stepsons Gary Nephew and his wife Sara of Detroit, Mich., John Bryant of Greenville, Tenn., and Robert Bryant of Plattsburgh; his former wife and mother of his son, Shelby Payro Richardson of Black Brook; a brother Tom Richardson, his wife Darling and their son Tommy; his sisters Nancy Richardson Marrs and Juanita Richardson Daby, both of Upper Jay; many nieces and nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews and countless friends.
He was predeceased by his parents and a stepdaughter Beverly Bryant in 2000.
A memorial service will be held at the convenience of the family, time and place to be announced at a late date. In lieu of flowers, donations toward a memorial garden may be sent to: The Peter Richardson Memorial Garden Fund, 36 Valley Road, Jay, NY 12941. Funeral arrangements are in care of the Fortune-Keough Funeral Home. Family and friends may share their memories and sign the online guestbook at fortunekeoughfuneralhome.com.
IN MEMORY OF
My Musician & Picking Friends Who Have Passed On (including some who simply loved music)
Albert Warner (my Dad)
Shirley Warner (my Mom)
Pauline Hixon (my Aunt)
Lawrence B. Hixon (my Uncle)
Jeremiah Lewis
John Nye
Wallace Pete Richardson
Clarence & Carrie Bevins
Amy Gristede
Charlie Bennett
Will Challet
John Bertrand
Brian Mason
Duane Mason
Slim Tanner
Lawrence Kahel
Andy Pawlenko
Francis Pierce
Wilbur Stewart
Bud Feinberg
Dave Deyo
Ray Manley
Don Towers
Danny & Carol Rumpf
Paul Bowden
Fred Pike
Bob Paisley
Jim Pepper
Rollie Swinton
Dick "Daddy" Richards
Tiny Martin
Bill Sage
Junior Strack
Bobby Strack
Billy Strack
Chan Goodnow
Addie Saunders
Clinton & Mildred Grant
Shirley Wallace
Kathy Wallace
Leo Brown
Ralph Le Clair
Wesley Ross
Wilkie Bashaw
Doug Knight
Linda Ralph
Jack Gowan
Cliff & Bobbe Erdman
Ken Oakley
Tim Farrell
Louis Catello
Arline Catello
Robert Catello
"Smiley" Willette
John "Whitey" Keese
Kenny Baker
Tom Kuhne
James Miller
John Tolbert
Dave Weaver
Linda Baker-Wolfe
Charlie Cornick
Lois "Aggie" Perkins
Gerald (Jerry) Ormsby
Russ Beede
James C. Smith
Rich Steenburn
Gladys Farrell
Frederick W. 'Ted' Nelson, Sr.
Theresa Monaco
E. C. Miller
Earl Scruggs
Richard (Rick) Moon
Sam Tidwell
Doc Watson
Kitty Wells
Robert Crigger
Wayne Bousquet
Walter Williams
Dr. C. David Merkel
Beatrice Lawrence
Kathleen Kay (Kilburn) Le Clair
Millard Layne
Wilbur Karcher
Richard "Dick" Lawrence
William "Bill" Washburn
Skip Clark
Harvey Tester
Nick Stephenson
Bruce Andersson
Orville Reggie Smith
Ken Foster
Howie Dearborn
James Campbell
Jim "Old Leather Hat" Stockton
Bill Gokey
Vic Kibler
David McDonough
James Powers
Tom Harrald
Dorothy Madden
Bob Nelson
Hank Clothier
Edward C. "Skip" Moody
Frederick B. Burton
James Alan Shelton
Paul Madden (OTJunky)
Evan Carl
Elizabeth Stinson
Pete Pelkey
Dale Pelkey
Dale Lashway
Reginald "Reggie" Miller
Glen Del Dolly
Marvin Conquest
Hugh Martin, Jr.
Bruce B. Hare
Darrell Wayne Hall
Johnny Gimble
Bill Birchfield
Loren D. Eddy
Leroy Beane
Beatrice Wallace
Eva Sams
James J. Smith
Dean Scalf
Lorie Gregory
Tom Quinn
John Russell Straight
Wanda Booher
Carl Bigelow
Don Hudson
Ted Wrench
Ronnie Purdy
Tom Richardson
Iss Barnett
Bob Guinn
Mrs. Mary Laws
James King
Roy Barnett
Carl Kithcart
Dr. Ralph Stanley
Don Parmelee
Simon St. Pierre
Bob French
James McDonough
Dale Sledd
James Cashin
Patricia M. Smith
Terri L. Manley
Robert "Bobby" O. Trumbull, JR.
Henry Louie Vincent
Frank Scaife
Emerson Nye
Scott W. Scovell
Gordon Smith
Junior Barber
Pastor Joyce Bruce
Paul Greene
Guy Kuykendall
Gene Clayton
Frank Culler
Willie Carnes
Fred Glenn Skeens
Shirley Richter
Nina Allen
Mildred Walsh
Glenn Bickford
Leon Lamoy
Donald Ashe
Charlie Booher
Gary Phinney
Otis Ray
