Gerald R. Law

Posted in Class of 1966 | Comments Off on Gerald R. Law

Horace H. Law

Horace H. Law’s Rites Scheduled

Canton – The funeral for Horace Hubbard Law, 27, of Morley, who died instantly
Wednesday at 5 a.m., as the result of a car accident in the town of Lisbon, will be
Saturday at 3 p.m. at First United Methodist Church with Rev. Calvin Zimmer, pastor,
officiating.   Burial will be in the Morley Cemetery.

Friends may call at the O’Leary Funeral Home this evening and Friday afternoon and
evening.

Surviving are his widow, Mrs. Katherine Congdon Law, two daughters, Christina Anne,
2 1/2, and Susanna Marie, 7 1/2 months; his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Hubbard H. Law,
Russell; two sisters, Mrs. Charles (Shirley) Whiteford, Canton, and Ms. Rogene Law of
Georgia; four brothers, Carlos, Buffalo, Gerald, Russell, Larry, North Carolina, and
Merle, of Russell.

He was born July 21 1942, in Gouverneur, son of Hubbard H. and Clarissa Stark Law.  
He attended Russell schools and was graduated from Knox Memorial High School in 1961. From 1961 to ’64 he served with the Air Force and was stationed in Puerto Rico
for several months.   In April of 1966 he married the former Miss Katherine Congdon in
the First Methodist Church of Canton.   The Rev. Calvin Zimmer officiated at the
ceremony.

The couple had lived in Morley since marriage.   For some time he had been associated
with Ward Foods, Inc., in the operation of a bread route.

Transcribed from a 27 Mar 1969 Watertown Daily Times news clipping.

Posted in Class of 1960 | Comments Off on Horace H. Law

Arland Pike

SOUTH RUSSELL — Arland A. Pike, 93, of South Burlington, ended his Earthly Journey and went to live with his Savior Jesus Christ on March 30th, 2022, after a period of failing health.

Arland was born at home in South Russell, NY on January 29th, 1929, to Mabel (VanSant) and Urbane Pike.

He graduated from Knox Memorial High School in Russell NY, and then enlisted in the US Air Force, from 1948 to 1952, serving during the Korean war. While on leave in Denver, Colorado he met Alice Cox. They married in 1952 and settled in Potsdam, NY, where they raised their two daughters. Arland worked at General Motors for 30 years, until his retirement in 1989.

When Arland was 12, his father gave him his first guitar. He loved playing and became a gifted lifelong musician, sharing his gift with others both professionally and socially.

He recorded multiple CDs, giving them to friends and family, and played daily until a few weeks before his death.

Arland was also a talented woodworker (building houses, furniture, and whatever else he could imagine), and artist (painting dozens of pictures, giving most away).

After retirement, he volunteered at Hospice of St Lawrence County for 18 years.

He made friends easily wherever he went, often remembering details about people even after meeting them only once.

After Alice passed in 2014, Arland moved to South Burlington and lived next door to his daughter and son-in-law.

Living by himself at 85 was a huge adjustment, but he made the best of it with his characteristic resilience, stubbornness, and cheerful optimism.

He had an immense inner strength, and sharp wit that carried him through hard times, including serious disability starting when he was a young man. He also strongly relied on his faith in God.

In Arland’s last years, he often said, “My bags are packed and I’m ready to go” as well as “Thank you God, for another day.” He had many days, and he lived them fully and well.

Arland rejoins his wife, Alice; parents Mabel and Urbane; siblings (and their spouses) John (Barbara, Alice) Pike, Louise (Sandy) Chase, Lucille (Leo) Hewlet, Geraldine (Tom) Manning, and infant sister, Vivian.

Arland is survived by Allyson (Scott) Michaud; Andrea (Rob) Messier; three granddaughters: Angela Rafferty, Erica (Ben) Helms, Arin Reed; ten great-grand-children; four great-great-grand-children; brother Richard (Chris) Pike; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins; and countless friends.

Arland’s family thanks all who cared so much for him in these last months, especially the staff at UVM Home Health and Hospice and the McClure Miller Respite House.

Donations can be made in Arland’s name to UVM Home Health and Hospice, McClure Miller Respite House, and Disabled American Veterans.

Funeral arrangements are being made by the family and are incomplete at this time.

Cremation was done by Gregory and son.

Interment will be in the Columbarium at Resurrection Park Cemetery in South Burlington, VT.

Posted in Class of 1947 | Comments Off on Arland Pike

Thomas Campbell

RUSSELL – Thomas W. Campbell, age 63, of Russell, passed away on April 6, 2022 at Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center in Ogdensburg.

There will be no public services.

Arrangements are with French Funeral Home in Edwards.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Tom was born on May 23, 1958 in Potsdam to Betty (Butterball) Campbell and the late Vernon Campbell.

He attended Knox Memorial High School and married Tammy J. Gladle on August 17, 1985 at the Edwards Methodist Church.

Tom worked many different jobs, including for Arnold Colton’s slaughterhouse, logging and cutting firewood.

He worked construction for several different companies, worked in the sawmill in Pitcairn, was a dishwasher at St. Lawrence University, and was a maintenance worker for Walmart in Potsdam.

He loved to tinker outside, do carpentry work, ride his four-wheeler and watch old cartoons and wrestling.

He is survived by his mother, Betty Murray, his wife, Tammy Campbell, his fur babies, Dixie and Trixie, sister, Sandy (Paul) Oatman, brother, Tim, half-sisters, Brenda Francis, Patty (Pat) Brockway, Bonnie (Charles “Rocky”) Staffien, and Lisa (Steve) Furnace, and many nieces and nephews.

Tom is predeceased by his father and a half-brother, Michael Francis.

Donations in memory of Tom may be made to the Edward I. Moses Walk/Run For Life, https://secure.givelively.org/donate/st-lawrence-county-concer-fund-inc/… , or PO Box 291, Canton NY 13617.

Posted in Knox Community | Comments Off on Thomas Campbell

Richard Gotham

RUSSELL – Richard James Gotham, 77, of Russell, NY, passed away to be with our Lord Friday, February 18, 2022. Richard was born June 4, 1944 on the family farm in Russell, NY to Harold Fred and Bernice Leona (Miller) Gotham. Richard graduated from Knox Memorial High School in 1962 and then sold his favorite horse so that he could attend DeVry Tech in Chicago, Illinois where he studied electronics.

In 1964, Richard met his future wife, Janet Lee Dusharm, when they were set up on a blind date by Richard’s brother, Gilbert. For their first date, they went to the movies at the drive-in theater. They were married May 14, 1966 at the Methodist Church in Hermon, NY. Shortly after their wedding, Richard and Janet moved to Connecticut where Richard worked at Pratt & Whitney Aircraft and he received an award for his contributions to the building efficiency of their aviation technology.

Richard and Janet moved back to the family farm in 1971. Richard worked tireless hours to build back the dairy farm after a devasting barn fire. Throughout his years as a farmer, Richard was able to make numerous improvements to the farm, including building a 100 cow freestall barn and one of the first double 6 herringbone milking parlors in St. Lawrence County. In 2000, when their sons returned home after finishing college, they built a 40-stall rotary parlor. Richard and his family grew the farm from a 100-cow dairy farm to a 700-cow dairy farm with 1500 acres of land. Richard also enjoyed spending time with his three sons showing cattle at the St. Lawrence County Fair.

In 1994, Richard and Janet began travelling to Florida, where they initially spent weeks and eventually the whole the winter season. They never missed a year. While in Florida, Richard loved spending time at Daytona Beach, line dancing and couple dancing with his wife, and playing guitar with his many friends. Richard discovered his love for music later in his life and spent time making music with his family in New York in the summer. He was in total happiness playing around the campfire for his family and friends. Richard enjoyed hunting with his sons, as well as fishing and boating at the family camp on Trout Lake. He is well remembered and loved by all his grandchildren for making his delicious “PaPa Potatoes”.

Richard is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Janet Lee Gotham; his three sons and daughter in laws, Bryan Gotham, Kevin and Trish Gotham, and Cory and Jamie Gotham; his grandchildren Connor Gotham and fiancée, Taylor Fisher, Emma-Lee, Haven, Rylee, Leeann, Kaylin, and Payton; his sister, Mayfred Hull; brother and sister-in-law, Howard & Kate Gotham, and sister-in-law Janet F. Gotham. In addition to his parents, Harold and Bernice Gotham, Richard was predeceased by his brothers, Harold Jr., Winston (Sonny) and Gilbert; sisters, Madeline Hatch, Helen Henri, Mary Gotham, and Rosalie Force.

Calling hours will be held at French Funeral Home in Edwards on Sunday, March 6, 2022 from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. His funeral service will be on Monday, March 7, 2022 at 12:00 p.m. at the Edwards United Methodist Church. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com. In lieu of flowers please donate funds to Russell, Hermon or Edwards Fire Departments.

Posted in Class of 1962 | Comments Off on Richard Gotham

Tina (Curtis) Hitchcock

DEGRASSE- Tina M. Hitchcock, age 57, of Degrasse, NY passed away unexpectedly on Friday, February 4, 2022 at her home.

Tina was born on November 24, 1964 in Canton, NY to the late Pearl B. and Theresia M. (Beane) Curtis. She graduated from Knox Memorial High School in Russell. Tina married Wesley Hitchcock on March 17, 2006 in Texas. A previous marriage ended in divorce.

Tina was a homemaker. She had previously worked for the Department of Social Services as a caseworker. She enjoyed reading, especially James Patterson Books; collecting sewing thimbles and she tried crocheting for a while. She loved horses, but her biggest enjoyment was sitting and listening to her daughter, Sara, tell her about anything going on in her life.

Surviving is her husband, Wesley; two daughters, Emily Dominie and Sara Hitchcock; a granddaughter, Ava Archer; a brother and sister-in-law, Monty and Cathy Curtis; a sister and brother-in-law, Connie and Tom Daly; her mother-in-law, Barbara Frey; three brothers-in-laws, Raymond Hitchcock, Joseph Stepan and Jon Stepan and several nieces, nephew, cousins and multiple relatives in Texas. Tina is predeceased by her parents.

There will be a graveside service for Tina at a later date in the spring. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Tina Hitchcock, please visit Tribute Store

Services for Tina Hitchcock

There are no events scheduled. You can still show your support by sending flowers directly to the family, or planting a memorial tree in memory of Tina Hitchcock.

Posted in Class of 1982 | Comments Off on Tina (Curtis) Hitchcock

Debra (Allen) Gotham

RUSSELL- Debra L. Gotham, age 51, of Russell, NY passed away on Sunday, March 25, 2018 at her home under the loving care of her family and Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley.

There will be a celebration of life for Debra on Saturday, March 31, 2018 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at Rusty and Debra’s home at 22 Backus Rd., Russell, NY. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home, Edwards. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Debra was born on March 10, 1967 in Gouverneur, NY to Gilbert and Arlene (Bigwarfe) Allen. She graduated from Knox Memorial School in 1986 and went on to SUNY Canton for nursing. She married Rusty D. Gotham on July 30, 1988 at the Hermon Methodist Church. She and her husband owned and operated “The Edge” Print shop in Canton. She had also been a Nurse’s Aid for many years, working for United Helpers Maplewood.

Debra was not only a mother-hen to her own children, but also to her children’s friends and her nieces and nephews. She was even known as a “Momma Hen” to Rus’ friends. She enjoyed doing puzzles and spending time with her grandchildren. She loved having holidays and birthday parties. She was the typical All-American Mom!

She is survived by her husband, Rusty; their three children, Michael and Patricia Gotham, Alesha Florence and Brandon Rood and Jennie Gotham; her father, Gilbert Allen; three brothers, Steve and April Allen, Joe Allen and his fiancé, Bonnie Walton and Buck and Tina Allen; two sisters, Kim and Tim Hitsman and Becky and Bob Salego; and her seven grandchildren, Ridge, Lily, Levicy, Vincent, Vanessa, Adrian and Abigail, who is on the way.

Debra is predeceased by her mother, Arlene Allen.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Debra Gotham, please visit Tribute Store

Posted in Class of 1985 | Comments Off on Debra (Allen) Gotham

Frederick C. Whitmarsh, Sr.

RUSSELL — Frederick C. Whitmarsh Sr., 81, died peacefully at home on Monday, January 24, 2022 where he was surrounded by family and under the care of Hospice and Palliative Care of the St. Lawrence Valley.

Fred was born March 30, 1940 in Russell, New York, a son to the late Beldon and Muriel (Manning) Whitmarsh. He graduated from Knox-Memorial High School and enlisted in the United States Navy, serving his country proudly and honorably for 20 years, retiring from the service in 1979. On April 8, 1962, Fred married Joan M. Rowe.

Following his time in the Navy, Fred became a farmer, he drove truck, worked construction and drive school bus for the Edwards-Knox School District. In 1992 Fred entered the NYS Corrections academy, and worked at several prisons in NYS, ending his career at Riverview in Ogdensburg. On December 24, 2007, Fred married longtime friend, Brenda Chambers. He was a former member of the Russell Fire Department, and enjoyed hunting, fishing and riding motorcycles.

Fred is survived by his wife, Brenda; five children, Frederick C. (Wendy) Whitmarsh Jr.; Patricia Ann Whitmarsh; Candy (Skip) Edie; Norman Todd and Duane (Laurie) Todd; grandchildren, Erick Whitmarsh, Jennifer (Brad) Rand, Nathan (Shannon) Surface, Ian Edie and Levi Edie, Chance, Trevor, Maddison, Mackenzie and Madelain Todd and 12 great-grandchildren. Also surviving are two brothers, Beldon (Carol) Whitmarsh and Sidney Whitmarsh.

In addition to his parents, Fred is predeceased by his first wife, Joan, a grandson, Derick Whitmarsh, two brothers, Arthur and Wayne Whitmarsh and by a sister, Susan Whitmarsh.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, January 26, 2022 from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm and from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the O’Leary Funeral Home, Canton. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, January 27, 2022 at the funeral home at 11:00 am, with Pastor Skip Edie, son-in-law, officiating.

Contributions in his memory may be made to Tunnel The Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10306 or online at t2t.org or a charity of ones choice.

Memories and condolences may be shared online at www.olearyfuneralservice.com. Arrangements for Frederick C. Whitmarsh Sr. are under the care of the O’Leary Funeral Service of Canton.

Posted in Class of 1958 | Comments Off on Frederick C. Whitmarsh, Sr.

Edwin Marshall Franklin, Jr.

RUSSELL — Edwin Marshall Franklin, Jr., 64, formerly of Russell, died peacefully at the home of his daughter Christina Franklin in Canton, surrounded by his children and spouses and his grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, Jan. 29 from 3-6 p.m. at the Russell Volunteer Fire Department. Please bring a dish to pass.

Ed was born December 18, 1957, in Canton, NY and was a son of the late Edwin M. and Jessie June (Clarke) Franklin. He graduated from Knox Memorial in Russell in 1976.

Ed was a self employed contractor for a number of years before he was diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia in his mid to late 50’s.

Surviving are his four children, Bradley E. Franklin of Syracuse, NY, Edwin M. (Cynthia Bohanan) Franklin of Homer, NY, Carlton Franklin of Canton, NY and Christina (Adam Gollinger) Franklin of Canton, NY; a brother, Warren P. (Vicky) Franklin of Russell, NY; a sister, Donna Alexander of Liverpool, NY; twelve grandchildren, Madisen G. Franklin of Washington, Joshua E., Caden J. and Isabella S. Doughty all of Canton, Hailey V. and Hanna E. Gollinger of Hermon, NY, Samara LaFlair of Canton, Leah Franklin of Syracuse, Kaydence, Edwin and Rowan Franklin all of Homer, and Lorraina Franklin of Canton. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his father Edwin M. (1971), mother Jessie June (2013), niece Marcie A. Franklin (2005) and wife Sheila M. Franklin (2007).

Ed was a member of the NRA, an avid hunter and fisherman, loved camping, 4-wheeling, working on small engines, loved being a PaPa, gardening and precious time spent with loved ones.

Condolences may be shared by visiting www.lawrencefuneralhome.org.

Posted in Class of 1976 | Comments Off on Edwin Marshall Franklin, Jr.

Ruby “Blanche” (Garner) Peden

Ruby “Blanche” (Garner) Peden, 96, of Syracuse, N.Y., passed away on Jan. 15, 2022.

Blanche was born on June 2, 1925 on a farm in Claire, N.Y. After her father died at a young age, she and her two sisters and brother were raised by their mother, all working on the farm. Blanche helped take care of the cows, roll hay, pick and can vegetables and tap maple trees for syrup, bringing the vats of syrup to the sugar house on a team of horses.

After high school, she went to beautician school, and she later kept a salon in her basement for doing friends’ and family’s hair. She worked the elevator at Onondaga Hotel, worked at Syracuse department stores E.W. Edward, and at typewriter company L.C. Smith before moving to Wilmington, Del. with her sister Thelma. She worked during World War II as a shell inspector at a shell plant, where she met her future husband Robert Peden, with whom she enjoyed many happy years.

While Robert served overseas with the Army, Blanche returned to Syracuse and worked in a beauty salon. Robert returned in May of 1947, and they were married in June, having five children together (two of which died at birth). After raising her three children, she worked at Sears in downtown Syracuse, as well as for Carrier Corp. and later at Town and Country Veterinary Hospital.

Blanche loved spending time with her family, animals, playing card games, reading, music and dancing.

Blanche is predeceased by her husband, Robert Peden (2007); her parents, Roy and Alice (Curtis) Garner; her sisters, Thelma Schollian and Norma Hurley; and her brother Keith Garner.

She is survived by her children, Robert and Pat Peden of Syracuse; Donalee and Bill Wesley of Syracuse; and Mike and Judy Peden of Horseheads, N.Y.; her grandchildren, Breanna Fitzgerald, Nikki Carter, Amanda LinScott, Shaun Peden and Tiffany Peden, Jennifer Thompson, Chris Wesley; as well as several great-grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren; many nieces and nephews, and a giant, recalcitrant Maine coon, Finnegan.

Funeral service will be Monday, January  24th, 11AM at Ballweg & Lunsford Funeral Home, Syracuse, NY.  Burial will follow at Onondaga Valley Cemetery.

Contributions in lieu of flowers may be made to an animal shelter of your choice.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Blanche Peden, please visit Tribute Store

https://ballweg-lunsford.com/tribute/details/232775/Blanche-Peden/obituary.html#tribute-start

Posted in Class of 1942 | Comments Off on Ruby “Blanche” (Garner) Peden

Leon R. “Stub” White

RUSSELL — Leon R. “Stub” White, age 75, passed away on Monday, January 10, 2022 at Canton-Potsdam Hospital.

Leon was born on August 9, 1946 in Canton, NY to Edward and Arlene (Ashlaw) White. He graduated from Knox Memorial School in Russell in 1965. He then went on to graduate from Canton ATC in 1967.

Stub married Shirley Enslow on September 25, 1965. The couple have been married for 56 years.

Stub worked as a maintenance supervisor at the Newton Falls Paper Mill for 36 years. He had previously worked at Harrisville Drykiln. He was an active outdoorsman. He loved hunting, fishing, trapping, snowmobiling and grooming the trails. He also used to raise beef cattle, sheep and pigs for a while.

Surviving is his wife, Shirley; their three children, Amy and Charles Fuller, Sarah White and Robert and Stacy White; his mother, Arlene; a sister, Jenny and Jack Durham; four brothers, Ronnie and Marcia, Gary and Song, Brian and Anne and Steve and Debbie; five grandchildren, Jeremy, Katelynn, Jimmy, Trenton and Travis; three great grandchildren, Piper, Adalynn and Kimberlynn and a great grandson is on the way.

In keeping with Stub’s wishes, there will be no services. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home, Edwards. Condolences and photo’s may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Donations may be made in Leon’s memory to the Gouverneur Breast Cancer Fund, P.O. Box 64, Gouverneur, NY 13642.

Posted in Class of 1965 | Comments Off on Leon R. “Stub” White

Grover LaFountain

Grover LaFountain, a retired truck driver from Johnstown, passed away December 16th, 2021. He was 82.

He was born December 28th, 1938 in Cranberry Lake, NY, the son of Norene LaFountain and Grover M. LaFountain who died before he was born. Later, he moved to Russell, NY with his mother and stepfather Harvey Hickok. He graduated from Knox Memorial Central School in 1956 then joined the United States Coast Guard where he served from 1957-1961, primarily aboard the U.S.S. Westwind, an icebreaker, where he was able to visit both the Artic and Antarctic circles among other places. After his service he was a warehouse worker, then truck driver, which he did for over 50 years.

In April 1958, he married the love of his life, Helen Guiles, who predeceased him in October, 2015. He is survived by his two sons, Michael (Robin) of Port Jervis, NY and Grover “Tommy” (Melissa) of Saint Johnsville, NY; his sisters Nadine (Richard) Krantz of Zephyr Hills, Fl, Connie (Evan) Harper of Parishville, NY, and Colleen (Alan) Lamere of Huevelton, NY; eight grandchildren; and five great grandchildren.

In addition to Helen, he was also predeceased by his parents, stepfather, and oldest son Thomas (Karen) of Deland, Fl.

At his request, he is being cremated and there will be no services, although the family will have a small graveside ceremony at the South Russell (NY) cemetery in the spring where both Grover and Helen will be interred. In addition, his sons are planning a “celebration of dad’s life” to be held in the spring as well. Donations can be made to the Shriner’s Hospital New England (Springfield) at Shriner’s Hospital New England, 516 Carew Street Springfield, MA 01104 or online at https://www.shrinerschildrens.org/locations/new-england using code SHC for the New England (Springfield) location. You can also donate to the First Presbyterian Church of Johnstown, New York by contacting their office at (518) 762-8263 or by email at office@johnstownpresbyterian.org.

Posted in Class of 1956 | Comments Off on Grover LaFountain

Christine (Bigwarfe) Whitmarsh

RUSSELL – Christine A. Whitmarsh, age 71, of Russell, passed away on December 15, 2021 at home under the care of her family and hospice.

Her family will have a Celebration of Life held at a later date. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home in Edwards. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Christine was born on October 19, 1950 in Potsdam to the late Joseph E. and Florence E. (Backus) Bigwarfe. She graduated from Knox Memorial School in 1968 and married John M. Whitmarsh on March 8, 1969.

Christine had worked at Dairy Queen, the Gray Lanes Bowling Alley in Canton, and Noble Shoe Store in Canton before working as a Secretary for Knox Memorial School and later for Edwards Knox Central School until her retirement.

Christine was an excellent cook who enjoyed her family. She loved being with her grandson and helped take care of him when he was young. She and John used to bowl and ride motorcycle. Christine was a member of the Amvets, Post 11 Auxiliary in Dekalb Junction and a former member of the Russell Rescue Squad.

She is survived by her husband, John Whitmarsh, Sr., two sons and daughters-in-law, John (Erin) Whitmarsh Jr, and Joshua R. (Kate) Whitmarsh, grandson, Tyler Whitmarsh, and five siblings, Judy (Charles) Perry, Lex Kerr, Joseph (Edith) Bigwarfe, Dean (Vicki) Bigwarfe, and Tracy (Gary) Enslow.

She is predeceased by her parents and three siblings, Arlene Allen, Gene Bigwarfe, and Mary Perry.

Donations in memory of Christine may be made to Gouverneur Breast Cancer Fund, PO Box 64, Gouverneur NY 13642, Ryan’s Wish Foundation, PO Box 326, Gouverneur NY 13642, or Jerry’s Run for Cancer, 3788 Co. Rt. 6, Hammond NY 13646 or www.jerrysrunforcancer.org.

Posted in Class of 1968 | Comments Off on Christine (Bigwarfe) Whitmarsh

Lawrence “Larry” Meilleur

WEGATCHIE –- Lawrence “Larry” E. Meilleur peacefully passed on Sunday, December 12, 2021 with his wife and daughters by his side.

Calling hours will be held at French Funeral Home in Gouverneur on Thursday, December 16, 2021 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. His funeral service will be held on Friday at 11:00 at the funeral home followed by burial in South Russell Cemetery. Following the burial, all are welcome to celebrate Larry’s life at the Edwards Fire Hall. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Larry was born on June 18, 1958 in Star Lake, NY and was raised by Maynard “Satch” and Vaughan Meilleur. He attended Knox Memorial School and served in the United States Army from 1979 – 1981.

He is survived by his wife, Maggie, daughter Missy Brown and husband Jason Brown, daughter Liana Meilleur and her significant other Korry Hodgdon, and daughter Kimberly Meilleur and her significant other Vinny Avallone, his five grandchildren, Jarret Knight, Tanner Knight, Olivia McCormick, Harley Dahlberg and Giuliana Avallone, and his fur “grandchildren” Tucker, Maggie May, Mia, Duke, Jack, Molly and Klaus. He is also survived by his sisters, Jennifer Meilleur, Tammy Tebo, Sue Fisher, brother Bruce Tebo, nephews and cousins.

He is predeceased by his brothers, Lemond Meilleur and Maynard “Satch” Meilleur, and sisters, Bertha Ordway and Betty Burns.

Larry enjoyed the outdoors. He like hunting and fishing. Arguing with Maggie was one of his almost favorite hobbies. He enjoyed supporting the local VFW and having cold beverages while listening and/or playing music, and pretending he could dance. However more than any of this, he enjoyed being with his grandchildren. He was the Best Buckin Pa anyone could ask for.

Per request of Larry’s wife and daughters, in lieu of flowers, please send a donation to Friends 4 Pound Paws, PO Box 394, Gouverneur NY 13642 or Ryan’s Wish Foundation, PO Box 326, Gouverneur NY 13642.

Posted in Knox Community | Comments Off on Lawrence “Larry” Meilleur

Jean (Dodds) Given

Jean D. Given, 96, of Massena, but a Russell girl at heart, died peacefully on Sunday, December 12, 2021 at her home where she was in the company of family.

Jean was born December 26, 1924 in Russell, the daughter of the late George W. and Maude (Wilcox) Dodds. She graduated at the age of 16 from Knox-Memorial School in 1941. Jean was a farm girl, helping her father with daily operation and delivering milk. Following graduation, Jean began working for the school for several years. She left only for a short bit during the war to work at Clifton Mines but later returned to the school.

On April 26, 1946, Jean married Theron C. Given at her family home in Russell. The couple purchased a home in Russell and began raising a family. Later, because of Theron’s job with the Augsbury Corporation, the family moved to Ogdensburg where Jean began working at OFA, from where she retired in 1982 as the assistant business manager.

She and Theron remained connected to Russell, going to meetings at the Russell Museum and working on the Russell Balsam Cemetery Restoration project. Although Theron predeceased her February 20, 2015, Jean continued her connection to Russell, working on the History of Russell School book with the committee.

Jean is survived by her three children, Nancy (Norm) Hewlett, Massena; Kathy (Ricky) O’Shaughnessy, Massena; and Donn (Cheryl) Given, Chittenango; grandsons, Drew and Jason Given as well as nieces and nephews.

In addition to her beloved Theron and parents, George and Maude, she is predeceased by her two sisters, Sally Tupper and Katharine Coffey.  Special thanks to Lynda Beckstead and Teri Chapin for their help and support over the last year. 

Calling hours for Jean will be held on Saturday, December 18, 2021 from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm at the O’Leary Funeral Home, Canton, followed by a memorial service at 1:00 pm. Burial will be in the South Russell Cemetery.

Contributions in lieu of flowers may be made to the Russell Museum or to Hospice and Palliative Care of the St. Lawrence Valley, 6805 US Highway 11; Potsdam, New York 13676.

Memories and condolences may be shared online at www.olearyfuneralservice.com. Arrangements for Mrs. Jean D. Given are under the care of the O’Leary Funeral Service of Canton.

Posted in Class of 1941 | Comments Off on Jean (Dodds) Given