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Condolences.....

Marion H. (Hemstreet) Manion, IHS Alumnus, age 83, formerly of Brewster, died September 11, 2001 at her daughter's home in Cooperstown. She was the wife of the late Robert M. Manion. Born in Ilion, N.Y., she graduated from Ilion High School and attended Cortland Normal School. She was married in 1937 and moved to North Adams, Mass., in 1942, where she was employed for more than 30 years in human resources management for Sprague Electric Co. After retiring, she moved to Brewster, where she lived until last October when she moved to Cooperstown. In North Adams, Mrs. Manion was active in Scouting and at one time served as commissioner of the Girl Scouts. She was also active in the United Way, serving as director of fund-raising campaigns until 1990. She was a member of the North Adams Baptist Church. She was a skilled knitter. She is survived by two daughters, Barbara Whitman of Seattle and Dr. Patricia M. Mower of Cooperstown; a son, J. David Manion of Adams, Mass.; seven grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and two nieces. She was also the mother of the late Robert M. Manion Jr.. Memorial donations may be made to Catskill Area Hospice and Palliative Care Inc., 542 Main St., Oneonta, NY 13820. (December 30, 2001)

Ralph L. Vandawalker, IHS 1951, age 67, Ilion, passed away Monday, Dec. 10, 2001, at home after a long and very courageous battle with cancer. Ralph was born Aug. 17, 1934, in Ilion, the son of the late Leon M. and Marion I. Steele Vandawalker. He was a 1951 graduate of Ilion High School and worked with the Ilion Board of Light from 1951 to 1960. In 1960, he joined the Ilion Fire Department, working his way up to the rank of deputy chief in 1982, a position he held until his retirement in 1989. He also worked part time for Edick Appliances for 22 years. On May 22, 1970, he married the former Kathleen "Kathie" Weber in Ilion. Ralph is survived by his wife Kathie; his children, Lawrence and Pat Vandawalker of Youngsville, N.C., Julie and Allyn Zelie of Cicero, Joel and Catherine Vandawalker of Utica, Andrew and Erin Vandawalker of Frankfort Center, Regina and Michael Moreau of Ilion, Sally and Mark Johnson of Herkimer, Carmen and Sue Iagulli of Utica and Christina and Fred Letts of Palm Bay, Fla.; a brother and sister-in-law, Roger and Pamela Vandawalker of Ilion; two sisters, Virginia Vandawalker and Jean Runyon, both of Ilion; 13 grandchildren, and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He will be sadly missed by his faithful canine companion, Holly. Funeral services for Ralph will be held Thursday, Dec. 13, at 11 a.m. from the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 10! 0 Otsego St., Ilion, with the Rev. George B. Greene officiating. Interment will be in the Armory Hill Cemetery.Friends may call Wednesday from 3-7 p.m. at the funeral home. The family would like to express a special heartfelt thank you to Dr. Jorge Ferriero and his staff and Dr. Samir Desai and staff at Faxton-St. Luke's Hospital and Cancer Center, also the staff of Sue Campagna Hospice for the care and love and compassion shown to Ralph during his illness. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations in Ralph's name to Ilion Firefighters Local 1185, Faxton-St. Luke's Cancer Center, Herkimer County Hospice Foundation, or the American Diabetes Association. Ilion Career and Volunteer Firefighters will conduct a service Wednesday night at 6 p.m. at the funeral home. (December 13, 2001)

Ralph MacBlain IHS Alumnus, age 68, of Richfield Springs, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, Dec. 7, 2001. He was born Oct. 17, 1933, in Ilion, son of the late Alexander and Grace Guydits MacBlain. Ralph was raised and educated in Ilion schools. An honorably discharged U.S. Army veteran, he served our country during the Korean War. On July 13, 1957 he married Charlotte Petrie in Ilion, a loving union of 39 years until her passing Nov. 12, 1996. A resident of Richfield Springs since 1986, he came here from the Bainbridge-Sidney area. He had worked for the Norwich Shoe Co., retiring in 1977. On March 18, 2000, he married Carolyn Albert in New Berlin. She passed away Dec. 7, 2001, as a result of the automobile accident that they were involved in. He was a member of the Cooperstown Veterans Club. Ralph was happiest when he was surrounded by his many friends and family, especially his grandchildren. Surviving him are two sons, Ralph F. and his wife Patricia MacBlain of Smyrna and Peter MacBlain and his companion Elaine Long of Richfield Springs; three daughters, Pamela and her husband Richard Brown of South New Berlin, Lisa and her husband Ernie Ward of Jordanville and Shelly Montgomery and her companion Larry Harrington of New Berlin; three stepsons and their wives, Chuck and Joan Albert of Long Island, James and Joan Albert of Mississippi and Michael and Karen Albert of Long Island; one brother, David and his wife Fran MacBlain of Norwich; 12 grandchildren, Pam Clark, Penny Snyder, Samantha, Gerald and Sabrina Corn, Nicole and Holly MacBlain, Zachary Baker, John Baker III, Ernerst Ward Jr., Christopher and Chad Montgomery; one great-grandchild; several nieces, nephews and cousins. Besides his parents and wives Charlotte and Carolyn he was preceded in death by a brother, Alex MacBlain and a sister, Jessie Stedge. A funeral service was held in J. Seaton McGrath Funeral Home. Interment in Lakeview Cemetery will be next spring. Memorial donations may be made to the Richfield Springs Emergency Rescue Squad or the Catskill Area Hospice. Envelopes are available at the funeral home. (December 13, 2001)

Marilyn J. (Deller) Caruso IHS 1961, age 57, of Frankfort, passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 5, 2001, in Faxton Hospital after a courageous year long battle with cancer. She was born in Utica Dec. 17, 1943, the daughter of the late Harry and Muriel Schwartz Deller. She attended Ilion schools and graduated from Ilion High School with the class of 1961. Marilyn was married to Lee Caruso Jan. 20, 1968 in St. Mary's Church. In 1962, her employment began with the Utica State Hospital and she later became the data clerk for the town of Frankfort for many years. Marilyn embraced the Catholic faith on Dec. 4, 2001, when she received all her sacraments through Father Lamanna. She was a communicant of the Roman Catholic Community of Our Lady Queen of Apostles and was an Avon lady for 24 years. Mrs. Caruso is survived by her beloved husband, Lee; one son, Mark Caruso and his special friend, Peggy, both of Ilion; three daughters and one son-in-law, Susan and Dominick Sciorilli Jr., Oriskany, Patricia Caruso and Michele Caruso, both of Frankfort; her grandchildren, Tanya Sciorilli and Dominick Sciorilli III; one brother and sister-in-law, Russell and Joanne Deller, West Winfield; her sister-in-law, Josephine Lee, Rome; her nieces and nephews, Loralei and Phineas Marr III, Amy and Rodger Pape and Christopher Deller; her beloved feline companion Ernie; and several aunts, uncles and cousins. Her funeral will be held Saturday morning at 9:15 a.m. from the V.J. Iocovozzi Funeral Home Inc., 203 Second Ave., Frankfort, and at 10 a.m. in Our Lady Queen of Apostles Church with the Rev. John Yanas, pastor, and the Rev. Alfred Lamanna, pastor emeritus, officiating. Interment will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Calling hours will be Friday from 4-8 p.m. at the V.J. Iocovozzi Funeral Home Inc. Contributions in Marilyn's memory may be made to the Frankfort Volunteer Ambulance Corps or Mount Olivet Cemetery Chapel Fund. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Marilyn's family would like to extend a sincere thank you to Dr. Samir Desai, Dr. Fayer Chahfe, Dr. John Crawford, Dr. William Parker and Tom Givens and their staff for all the care and compassion shown to her during her illness and passing. A special thank you is given to Father Alfred Lamanna for his spiritual guidance during this trying period of their lives. (December 6, 2001)

Leanne Beth Esford IHS 1986, age 33 Rochester, passed away Friday, Nov. 30, 2001, at Faxton Healthcare, Utica. She was born June 3, 1968, in Ilion, the daughter of Timothy and Patricia Furrer Esford. Leanne was a graduate of Ilion High School, a 1990 graduate of Plattsburgh and received her master's degree from Nazareth College, Rochester. She was employed as a speech pathologist with BOCES in Batavia. Leanne was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Ilion, a former member of Ilion Triangle and past queen, a member of the Evening Star Chapter 82 OES of Ilion, a member of the American Speech, Language and Hearing Association, a founding member of Phi Delta and was very active with the Special Olympics. Leanne is survived by her parents, Timothy and Patricia Esford of Ilion; a brother and sister-in-law, Steven and Donna Esford of Ilion; a sister, Terri and her fiance Paul Nichols of Clinton; a niece, Kaitlin; a nephew, Tyler Esford; and many aunts, uncles and cousins. She also leaves many special friends. A memorial service for Leanne will be held on Monday, Dec. 3, 2001, at 11 a.m. from the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St., Ilion, with the Rev. Robert Wollaber and the Rev. George B. Greene, officiating. Final interment will be in the Armory Hill Cemetery. Friends may call Sunday, Dec. 2, 2001, from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home. Friends are asked to consider memorials to the Herkimer County Special Olympics W.E.B. Complex, 352 Gros Blvd., Herkimer 13350. (December 1, 2001)

Daisy M. Firman IHS Alumnus, age 88, formerly of Prindle Apartments of Ilion, passed away Sunday, Nov. 18, 2001, at the Mohawk Valley Nursing Home. Daisy was born July 15, 1913, in Ilion, daughter of Fred and Florence (McGraw) Lozo. She attended Ilion schools. At one time, she was married to Charles Guyer and later married Wayne Firman, who passed away many years ago. Daisy was employed by Sperry Rand Univac in Ilion and Utica, retiring in 1969, with 44 years of dedicated service. She was a member of the Church of the Annunciation, the Ilion-Frankfort VFW Post 502 Auxiliary, the Mohawk American Legion Auxiliary, Ilion Women of the Moose Chapter 31 and Ilion Knights of Columbus Auxiliary. She was a former member of the Ilion Hospital Guild, where she served as a volunteer worker. Daisy enjoyed crafts and sewing and she loved to dance and sing. Survivors include two loving and dedicated daughters and sons-in-law, Dolores "Dee" and her husband David Richardson of Ilion and Yvonne "Vonnie" and her husband Fred Sade of Freedom, Pa.; eight cherished grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren and seven great-great grandchildren; several nieces, nephews and cousins and many good friends, including Shirley Compeau of Ilion. She was predeceased by her grandson, Freddie Sade on Nov. 20, 1996, and her four brothers, Henry, David, Sonny and Robert Lozo and her two sisters, Violet Bailey and Florence Moynihan. Daisy's funeral services will be held Wednesday, Nov. 21, commencing at 9:15 a.m. at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, 102 West St. , Ilion, and 10 a.m. at the Church of the Annunciation, where Father Joseph Benintende, pastor, will celebrate a Mass of Christian Burial. Procession to Mohawk Cemetery for interment will follow Mass. Memorial contributions may be considered in Daisy's memory to the American Cancer Society or the American Heart Association. Donation envelopes are available at the funeral home. (November 24, 2001)

Doris Kenyon King IHS '28, age 91, a lifelong Ilion resident, died Friday, Oct. 26, 2001, at the Mohawk Valley Nursing Home, where she had been a resident.She was born in Utica July 31, 1910, the daughter of James and Margaret Bellair Kenyon and came to Ilion at an early age. She graduated from Ilion High School in 1928. Doris was twice married, first to James W. McTague in 1935 at the Old Church of the Annunciation. He died in 1952. She was then married to Maurice J. King in 1967 in the Chapel of Annunciation Church. He died in 1992. She was formerly employed with the Herkimer Memorial Hospital office, and more recently at the accounting office, Plant No. 2 at Ilion and in 1962 moved to the Univac accounting office in Utica. She retired in 1971 from Univac after an illness. She was a charter member of the Phila Sorority in Ilion, a past officer, treasurer and president of the Ilion Council of Catholic Women, having served as president from 1935-36 and was a former member of the Catholic Daughters of America. Mrs. King was a resident of Zephyrhills, Fla., for many years before returning to Ilion in 1989; while there she was a member of St. Joseph's choir. Her survivors include her daughter, Mrs. Eugene (Lucy) Coher of Ilion; two stepchildren, Mrs. Raymond (Anne) Muller of Colonial Beach, Va. and Mr. Bryan J. King of Mohawk. Also included are her 22 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her five children, a stepson and a stepdaughter. Relatives and friends were invited to attend a Memorial Mass for Doris which was celebrated at the Church of the Annunciation in Ilion. Burial was in St. Agnes Cemetery, Ilion. The family of Doris would like to extend their sincere appreciation to the nurses and staff of the third floor of Mohawk Valley Nursing Home and Herkimer County Hospice for their excellent care and compassion throughout her stay. Memorial contributions in her name may be made to the Sue Campagna Hospice of Herkimer County, 301 N. Washington St., Suite 2343, Herkimer 13350 or the Mohawk Valley Nursing Home Foundation. Arrangements are under the direction of the Kowalczyk Funeral Home, Utica. (November 4, 2001)

Kenneth J. Lowe II IHS 1971, Herkimer, passed away Sunday, Oct. 21, 2001. Ken was born Oct. 30, 1953, in Ilion, the son of Alan and Carole Breese Lowe. He was a graduate of Ilion High School and on Nov. 26, 1977, he married the former Robin Kempton at the First Baptist Church in Frankfort. Mr. Lowe was employed as a maintenance mechanic with Remington Arms in Ilion. Ken was a member of the Word Christian Center in Herkimer. He is survived by his wife, Robin of Herkimer; two daughters, Maria Carole Lowe of Herkimer and Leigh Ann Lowe of Herkimer; his mother, Carole Lowe of Harlesville, Pa., and his maternal grandfather, Charles Breese of Harlesville, Pa.; three brothers and two sisters-in-law, Donald and Florence Lowe of Ilion, Michael and Nina Lowe of Telford, Pa. and James Lowe of Harlesville, Pa.; several nieces and nephews; and a close friend, Alvin Baker. He was predeceased by his father, Alan. Funeral services for Mr. Lowe were held Wednesday, Oct. 25, at 11 a.m. from Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St., Ilion, with Pastor Eugene Kipper officiating. Interment will be in Armory Hill Cemetery, Ilion. Memorials may be made to one's favorite charity in Ken's name. (October 24, 2001)

Harry S. Rivers IHS Alumnus, age 87, of Stamford, passed away Friday, Oct. 19, 2001, at A.O. Fox Memorial Hospital. He was born May 27, 1914, in Utica, to Louis and Clara (Klein) Rivers. He graduated from Ilion High School and attended business school in Syracuse. He married Rose Carpenter in Ilion in 1948. He was a resident of Stamford since 1964. Harry worked as an accountant at the Library Bureau in Herkimer for several years. He also worked in businesses in Rome and Little Falls. When he retired, he was working for Catskill Craftsman in Stamford. During his life he enjoyed fishing and camping, and he traveled throughout the United States and Canada with his family. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Rose; his daughter, Nancy and his son, David, all of Stamford. Also surviving are several cousins, nieces and nephews. A brother and sister predeceased him. A funeral service was held Monday at 8:30 p.m., following calling hours, at the Hall Funeral Home, 40 Main St., Stamford. Interment was held at the Pittsfield Cemetery, Pittsfield, Mass. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to the Hall Funeral Home, under the direction of William A. Tari. (October 24, 2001)

Mrs. Joanne S. (Watchers) Phillips, IHS Alumnus, age 64, of Wylie Texas, passed away Tuesday, Sept. 25, 2001, in Rowlett, Texas. She was born Jan. 7, 1938, in Ilion, the daughter of Walter and Pearl (Fuller) Watchers. She attended Ilion schools and was a graduate of Ilion High School. While in Texas, Joanne worked as a cook of the Sunbridge Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center in Wylie. She had lived in Texas for the past 22 years. She is survived by her husband, Robert Alsten Phillips Sr. of Wylie, Texas; her mother, Pearl Watchers of Ilion; sons, Robert Alsten Phillips Jr. of Wylie, Texas, James Griffith Jr. and his wife Cheryl of Grafenwoehr, Germany; daughters, Tracy Lynn Phillips of Wylie, Texas, Judy C. Ayers and husband Robert of Campton, N.H. and Joyce Devereese and husband Craig of Little Falls; her sisters, Jeannie Watchers of Newport and Janet Watchers of Newport; seven grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews and cousins and stepchildren.She was predeceased by her father, Walter Watchers. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, Oct. 2, at 2 p.m. at the Holleran-Enea Funeral Home, 220 N. Washington St., Herkimer, with the Rev. Victor McKusick, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Ilion, officiating. Interment will follow in Carmichael Hill Cemetery, Rome. Those wishing are asked to consider donations in memory of Joanne to either the Herkimer County Humane Society, the American Cancer Society or to the American Red Cross. (October 7, 2001)

Vernon Voige Cool IHS '40, age 79, died Saturday, Sept. 15, 2001, at Dover Rehabilitation and Living Center. He was born Nov. 22, 1921, in Ilion, the son of Voige J. and Mable (Reed) Cool. He was a graduate of Ilion High School and attended Syracuse University. A decorated Air Force veteran of 25 years, he retired at Pease Air Force Base, Portsmouth, N.H., in 1967 as chief master sergeant. During World War II, he served with the 8th Air Force in England and during the Korean War with the famed 4th Fighter Group. He married Margaret Drumm of Ilion in 1954. She predeceased him in 1991. Subsequent to his Air Force service he was employed by the New Hampshire Department of Employment Security as an interviewer and veterans' employment counselor, retiring in August 1983. He was a member of the Air Force Sergeants Association, the Second Air Division Association and a life member of Disabled American Veterans. A bowler since his youth, he was a member of the Seacoast Military Retired Bowling League for 14 years.Survivors include his son, Dale Cushman Shepard and his wife Nancy of Wellington, Fla.; a grandson, John Vernon Shepard of Wellington, Fla.; a beloved companion of nine years, Charlotte Walter of Hampton, N.H.; an uncle and several cousins. Burial will take place in Riverview Cemetery, Old Forge, at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Red Cross, c/o Twin Towers Disaster Relief Fund, Strafford County Chapter, 3 Webb Place, P.O. Box 1158, Dover, N.H. 03820. (September 24, 2001)

David A. Marcil IHS '84, age 36, Frankfort, passed away Thursday, Sept. 6, 2001, in a trailor fire. He was born Sept. 3, 1965, in Ticonderoga, the son of Thomas and Margaret Driscoll Marcil. David was a 1984 graduate of Ilion High School and served in the U.S. Navy from 1987 to 1991. While in the Navy, David was a welder. He was employed as a fabricator with Special Metals in New Hartford, a job that he enjoyed. David is survived by his mother and stepfather, Margaret and Roscoe Perrone of Ilion; his father and stepmother, Thomas and Mary Jane Marcil of Moriah; a brother, Kevin Marcil of Greenville, S.C.; a half-brother, Thomas Marcil Jr. and his friend Buffy Woods of Port Henry; a stepbrother, Louis Perrone of Herkimer; a sister and her fiancŽ, Leisa Marcil and Anthony Huffman of Surfside Beach, S.C..; three half-sisters and their husbands, Paula and Eric Gravelding of Herkimer, Jennifer and Robert Porter of Ticonderoga and Wendy and Thomas Manfred of Moriah; several nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles. He was predeceased by a brother, Michael Marcil and stepbrother, Lloyd Perrone. Funeral services for Mr. Marcil will be held Sunday, Sept. 9, at 1:30 p.m. from Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St., Ilion, with Fr. George B. Greene officiating. Interment will be in the Mountain View Memorial Gardens, town of Little Falls. Friends may call Sunday from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, friends are asked to consider memorials to the Sue Campagna Hospice of Herkimer County in David's memory. (September 9, 2001)

Roberta (Bobby) Jarvis Garlock IHS '41, age 78, of Bradenton Beach, died Monday, Aug. 27, 2001, at home. Born in Ilion, Mrs. Garlock came to Manatee County from there in 1982. She was a homemaker. She attended First Presbyterian Church in Ilion. Survivors include her husband, Donald; two sons, Gregory A. of East Jordan, Mich. and Peter D., of Ashburnham, Mass.; three sisters, Wilma Danforth and Camila Caswell, both of Ilion and Leona Cramer of Big Lake, Minn.; four grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.A memorial service will be held at a later date. National Cremation Society, Sarasota Chapter, is in charge of cremation arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Southwest Florida, 5955 Rand Blvd., Sarasota, Fla. 34238, or to the American Cancer Society, 600 U.S. 301 Blvd. W., No. 136, Bradenton, Fla. 34207. (September 2, 2001)

Margaret M. Champagne IHS Alumnus, age 102, formerly of Prindle Apts., Ilion, died Sunday, August 19, 2001, at the Mohawk Valley Nursing Home, Ilion, where she had been a recent resident. She was born on August 1, 1899, in Big Moose, NY, the daughter of Benjamin F. and Margaret Reardon Currier, and attended Ilion schools and Reardon's Business School. On October 6, 1925, she was married to Charles J. Champagne in Ilion. He died on October 28, 1968. Margaret was employed in the Accounting Department at the Remington Typewriter Co., Ilion, for about 10 years, retiring in 1935. She was a member of the Church of the Annunciation, AARP, Ilion Council of Catholic Women and the Mohawk Valley General Hospital Guild. Survivors include two nieces, Laura Harris, of Ilion, and Susan O'Brien, of Utica; one nephew, Ben Metz and his wife, Phyllis, of Ilion; several great-nieces and great-nephews, including Rev. Gerald Harris and his wife, Jan, of Ilion, Janet Evans, of Syracuse, Kenneth Harris, of Ilion, Jeffrey O'Brien, of Utica, and Julie, Joanne and Cindy (Metz); and several great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews. Funeral services will be held 10:15 a.m., Tuesday, August 21, 2001, at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, 102 West St., Ilion, and 11:00 a.m. at the Church of the Annunciation, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery, Herkimer. Memorial contributions may be made to the Mohawk Valley Nursing Home. Donation envelopes are available at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home. (August 21, 2001)

Ward G. Cushman IHS Alumnus age 85, formerly of Herkimer, passed away on Wednesday, August 15, 2001, in his home at Acacia Village, Masonic Home, Utica. He was born on October 21, 1915, in Ilion, son of the late Lee Vern and Maude D. Leitz Cushman. A lifelong area resident, he was a graduate of Ilion High School and had attended Utica College. For many years, he was an accountant for the Library Bureau in Herkimer as well as a Professional Numismatist (coin dealer). Most of his life was spent in Herkimer until 1997 when he moved to the Acacia Village. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church, Herkimer, a member of Herkimer Lodge #423 F & AM, a 32nd degree mason with the Valley of Utica A.A.S.R. and a member of Ziyara Shrine A.A.M.N.O.S. He was District Director of AARP and had written many articles and editorials that have appeared in local newspapers. Ward will always be remembered as a caring person and was a friend to many. Surviving him are three cousins, Michael Gessner, of Scottsdale, AZ, Mrs. E.C. Calvin Winn, of Watertown, and Charles Leitz, of California, and close friends, Douglas Bennett, of Cleveland, NY, and Joseph P. Zinicola, of Frankfort. Funeral service will be on Monday at 1:00 p.m. in the First United Methodist Church, Herkimer, with the Rev. William Otis, Pastor, officiating. Interment will follow in Oak View Cemetery, Frankfort. Calling hours will be on Sunday from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. in Fenner Funeral Home, Inc., Herkimer. Memorial donations may be made to the Masonic Brotherhood Fund. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. (August 18, 2001)

Ruth W. (Wheeler) Chase IHS 1920 age 98, of Whitefield died on June 29, 2001, at Morrison Nursing Home in Whitefield. Born in Ilion, N.Y., on Nov. 19, 1902, she was the daughter of Charles and Maude (Rix) Wheeler. She was a graduate of Syracuse University in Syracuse, N.Y., with a major in music (cello). She was a longtime resident of Hamilton, N.Y., and was employed as a secretary at Colgate University in the Department of Education, retiring in 1967. She was a lover of the performing arts and an active participant in chamber music along with her late husband, Aurin M. Chase, an accomplished violinist. Serving in World War I, Col. Chase was a major developer of land track vehicles for the Army, and was also owner and founder of one of the first U.S. automobile manufacturing companies, the Chase Motor Car Company of Syracuse. She spent many summers in Whitefield at the Chase Farm Colony, site of the former Chase Barn Playhouse. She moved permanently to Whitefield in 1991, and lived independently until age 93, at which time she became a resident of Morrison Nursing Home. Throughout her life she was an avid gardener and bird- watcher, and actively supported numerous animal rights and nature conservation organizations. She is survived by a daughter, Mary Jane Chase of Whitefield, and two grandchildren; a stepson, Austin C. Chase of Little Falls, N.Y., and two stepdaughters, Nancy Chase Lockwood of Warnerville, N.Y. and Lavina Chase Tomb of Auburndale, Mass. In addition to her late husband, she is predeceased by two stepsons, Aurin M. Chase Jr. (a retired professor at Princeton University) and Donald L. Chase. Two stepdaughters, Lucy Chase Sparks (producer of Chase Barn Playhouse 1934-1962) and Mary Elizabeth Chase Pilotte, both from Whitefield, also predeceased her. A memorial service was held Thursday, July 5 at the Episcopal Chapel of the Transfigured in Whitefield. Graveside services were held at Oakwood Cemetery in Syracuse at a later date. Donations in her memory may be made either to the Lancaster Humane Society, 62 Martin Meadow Pond Rd., Lancaster, NH 03598, or to The Weathervane Theater, P.O. Box 127, Whitefield, NH 03598. (August 12, 2001)

Evelyn L. (Hight) Bristol - IHS 1935, passed away Thursday, Aug. 9, 2001, in the Mohawk Valley Nursing Home. She was born in North Gage on Nov. 2, 1917, the daughter of the late Floyd and Marguerite Williams Hight. She attended Ilion schools and graduated with honors from Ilion High School with the Class of 1935. She was married to Donald J. Bristol on Dec. 24, 1936 in Sts. Peter and Paul's Church Rectory. Mr. Bristol passed away on May 22, 1978. Mrs. Bristol was employed by UNIVAC, Ilion plant, from 1956 until 1964 and later as a clerk for the New York State Department of Transportation, Utica office, until her retirement in 1979 after 13 years of dedicated service. She was a communicant of the Roman Catholic Community of Our Lady Queen of Apostles and a member of the CSEA. She was a former member of the Prindle Tenants Association, the Legion of Mary of Sts. Peter and Paul's Church and was very active in the Bishop's Appeal for many years. Mrs. Bristol is survived by two sons and one daughter-in-law, Donald and Judy Bristol of Springfield, Va., and Michael Bristol of Pottsville, Pa.; one daughter, Mrs. Evelyn Entwistle, with whom she had resided in Frankfort; one brother and sister-in-law, Claude and Jeanette Hight, Gouverneur; one sister and brother-in-law, Winnie and Roy Kane, Schuyler; her brother-in-law, Anthony James Ricci of Schuyler; 20 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, one great-great-granddaughter and several nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by one daughter, Dale Bristol DeAngelis in 2000; one son-in-law, Thomas Entwistle in 1995; one daughter-in-law, Lynn Bristol in 2000; one great-grandson, Michael in 1993 and one brother, Gordon Hight in 1999; two sisters, Ruth Olds in 1989 and Helen Ricci in 1994. Her funeral will be held Monday morning at 9 from the V.J. Iocovozzi Funeral Home Inc., 203 Second Ave., Frankfort, and at 9:30 in Our Lady Queen of Apostles Church, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by the Rev. Alfred Lamanna, pastor emeritus. Interment will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Calling hours will be Sunday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the V.J. Iocovozzi Funeral Home Inc. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Evelyn's memory may be made to the Alzheimer's Association or the American Heart Association. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. (August 11, 2001)

Mildred Wainman Johnston Ilion Alumnus, age 98, formerly of Mohawk passed away Tuesday, August 7, 2001 in the Little Falls Hospital. She was born July 30, 1903 in Mohawk, NY, the daughter of the late Wallace F. and Mary Angus Smith Wainman. She was educated in the Ilion School System and attended the Utica School of Commerce. On December 31, 1924 she married Robert W. Johnston in Ilion. He passed away in 1977. Mrs. Johnston was employed as a business manager with the Herkimer Memorial Hospital, retiring in 1966. Mrs. Johnston was a member of the Mohawk Reformed Church, and was active in church affairs, the Valley Chapter 82 Order of the Eastern Star, the Board of Trustees of the Mohawk Homestead, theMinnowbrook Garden Club and a former member of Col. Marinus Willett Chapter D.A.R. Mrs. Johnston is survived by a daughter, Florence J. Brooks of Mohawk; a grandson and his wife, Robert and Jane Brooks, of New York City; a granddaughter and her husband, Sally Ann and Randy Lollman, of Bouckville, NY; two great-grandchildren; and a nephew and his wife, William and Marilyn Slaughter, of Ilion. She was predeceased by a cousin, Wilma Manion. Funeral services for Mrs. Johnston will be held on Friday, August 10, 2001 at 11:00 from the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego Street, Ilion, with Rev. Victor McKusick officiating. Interment will be in the Armory Hill Cemetery. (August 11, 2001)

J. Franklin Young IHS 1938, age 81, of North Bellinger Street passed away early Thursday morning, Aug. 2, 2001, in his home. He was born on April 9, 1920, in Norwood, Ohio, son of the late Rhea and Anna Vinison Young. After the unexpected death of his mother in 1935, he moved with his father to Ilion in 1936 and graduated Ilion High School in 1938. On April, 12, 1957, he married Heidy Wetterwald of Dornach, Switzerland, in Ilion. In 1963 they moved to Herkimer coming from Ilion. They had resided at 412 N. Main St., until this last year. Mr. Young was a banker for more than 45 years. He began his career with the former Ilion National Bank where he attained the position of cashier. After the merger of Ilion National and Marine Midland Trust Co. he was assigned to the Herkimer office as assistant vice president. In 1969 he joined GFM Machines Inc. at the Oneida County Airport where he served as treasurer and director. He retired in 1986 as the manager of the Norstar (Oneida National) Bank, Frankfort branch. Mr. Young was deeply involved in volunteer organizations for 40 years, believing that whoever lives on this earth should strive to leave things better than they found them. He was a founder and first campaign co-chairman of the Valley United Way (formerly the United Way of Frankfort, Herkimer, Ilion and Mohawk) in 1960 and was the treasurer from 1960 to 1987. He was a founder and the first president of the Herkimer County Chamber of Commerce in 1968 and continued for many years as a director. He was also very involved with the General Herkimer Council (Boy Scouts) Stamp Committee, where he served as treasurer and co-chairman. The committee organized by George Sehring in the early 1970s initiated the issuance of a postage stamp to honor General Nicholas Herkimer and other patriots who fought at the Battle of Oriskany in 1777. The committee was successful in getting the stamp issued with the first Day Ceremony held at Herkimer County Community College on Aug. 6, 1977, the 200th anniversary of the battle. He was also a past president of the Herkimer Rotary Club, a member of the Folts Homes Board of Directors, where he had served as secretary of the board; he was a past president of the Ilion Conservation Club and of the now-defunct Herkimer County Arts Council. He was a member of Ilion Lodge 591 F & AM, where he was a past master and had the distinction of being the youngest master to serve the lodge at the age of 27, a 32nd degree mason with the Valley of Utica AASR and also a member of the Ziyara Shrine AAONMS. He was a member of the American Philatelic Society and treasurer of the American Allvetio Society. A community-spirited man, he was a friend to many and will never be forgotten. He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Heidy Young; two sons and their wives, Christopher and Janice Young of Wrentham, Mass., Steven and Mary Lourdes Young of Portland, Ore.; five grandchildren, Madeleine and Charlotte in Massachusetts, Catherine, Maria and Heidy in Oregon. He also leaves his stepmother, Ann Young of Merritt Island, Fla., along with a half-sister, Barbara and a stepbrother John, both of Florida. A celebration of Frank's life will take place Wednesday at 4 p.m. in the Herkimer Reformed Church, North Main Street, Herkimer. The Rev. Donald Battjes, pastor, will officiate. A reception will follow the service in the church. Memorial donations may be made to the Valley United Way or the charity of your choice. Funeral arrangements are with Fenner Funeral Home Inc., Herkimer. (August 7, 2001)

Deborah A. (Mabbett) Brown IHS 1968, age 51, passed away August 5, 2001, at St. Luke's-Memorial Hospital Center after a long and hard fought struggle. She was born July 4, 1950, in Herkimer, the daughter of Dorr and Betty Johnson Mabbett. She was a graduate of Ilion Central School and Utica School of Commerce. In October of 1971, she was married to Stan Brown in Mohawk. Deborah was employed by Herkimer County BOCES in East Herkimer as a senior account clerk. She was also the co-owner of Richfield Auto Supply in Richfield Springs. She enjoyed working with the Davis racing team and assisting in all the Cedarville Fire Department Auxiliary and had been a member for over 25 years. She was also a member of the Antique Automobile Club of America. Besides her husband, Stan, she is survived by her mother-in-law, Lillian Brown; two sons, Michael Brown and Jimmy Brown, of Cedarville; a step-son, Dale Brown, of West Winfield; step-grandchildren, Todd and Kathleen, of West Winfield; other family members; also a special canine friend, Dutchie alias "Booboo." She was predeceased by her parents and a sister, Sharon Mabbett Confair. The funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 7, at the Wilcox-Dimbleby Funeral Home, West Winfield. Interment will be in Cedarville Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider the American Cancer Society or the Cedarville Fire Department. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. (August 7, 2001)

Morris J. "Morry" Kane IHS 1940, age 79, a longtime resident of Mohawk, passed away unexpectedly Thursday, Aug. 2, 2001, at Little Falls Hospital. Morry was born Oct. 10, 1921, in Ilion, son of Harold and Clairbelle (Volk) Kane. He was a graduate of Ilion High School "Class of 1940." Morry was a proud veteran of World War II, serving his country with the U.S. Navy in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of War. He was presented the American Theater Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Medal and the Victory Medal. On July 4, 1946, he was united in marriage to Rose Mary Shedd in Mohawk, a blessed union of 55 years. Morry was employed by the Remington Arms Co., Ilion, as a toolmaker, retiring in 1979 with 39 years of dedicated service. He was a member of the Blessed Sacrament Church, Mohawk, the Ilion Fish and Game Club and the Mohawk American Legion Crowley Barnum Post 25. Morry was an avid outdoorsman and took great enjoyment in lending a helping hand to others. Survivors include his beloved wife, Rose Mary at home; two daughters and one son-in-law, Christine and James Arnitz of Clyde and Melissa Hall of Houston, Texas; four sons and daughters-in-law, Mark and Linda Kane of Orange Park, Fla., Paul and Elke Kane of Clifton Park, Stephen Kane of Mesa, Ariz. and Gregory and Kathleen Kane of Lawrenceville, Ga.; six granddaughters, six grandsons, one great-granddaughter and one great-grandson; his two sisters and brothers-in-law, Lois and Ken Thompson of Sidney and Barbara and James Chase of Mohawk; his brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Alan and Elizabeth Shedd of Mohawk, Ann and Lewis Watson of Ilion and Donald Davidson of Ilion.He was predeceased by his twin brother, George Kane; his sisters, Helen Davidson and Catherine O'Bryan; and his brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Estelle and Bill DeCoursey and Leon and Doris Shedd; several nieces, nephews, cousins and many close and dear friends.Morry's funeral service will be held Monday, Aug. 6, commencing at 9 a.m. at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, 102 West St., Ilion, and 10 a.m. at the Blessed Sacrament Church, Mohawk, where Father James Steuer, pastor, will celebrate a Mass of Christian Burial. Procession to Calvary Cemetery for interment will follow Mass.Family and friends are invited to visitation Sunday from 2-5 p.m. at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, Ilion. Memorial contributions in Morry's name may be considered to MOVAC or the American Heart Association. Donation envelopes are available at the funeral home. (August 4, 2001)

Frank E. Deyle Ilion Alumnus, age 81, of Avery Rd., Ilion, passed away Thursday, July 19, 2001, at home. He was born December 6, 1919, in Schuyler, NY, the son of the late Forrest and Lena Bower Deyle. He was a graduate of Ilion High School and served with the U.S. Army during WW II. On January 22, 1949, he married the former Winifred "Fritzie" Flock in Ilion. Mr. Deyle was employed with Remington Rand and then was a franchise distributor with Ford Gum & Machine Co. for 32 years, retiring in 1983. Mr. Deyle was a member of the First Baptist Church, Ilion, past commander of Ilion American Legion Post 920, past county commander and treasurer of the American Legion, 5th District Adjutant of the American Legion, member of the Stars and Stripes D.A.V. of Utica, chairman of American Legion Boy Scouts of Herkimer County, Cub Scout Master and Boy Scout Master of Troop 27 of East Frankfort, a member of St. Johnsville Masonic Lodge and past president of the Ilion Winter Club. Mr. Deyle is survived by his wife, Fritzie; two daughters and a son-in-law, Catherine Deyle, of Grayslake, IL, and Barbara and Joseph White, of Ilion; two sons and daughters-in-law, James and Annette Deyle, and William and Dawn Deyle, of Ilion; a sister-in-law, Bernetta Pugh, of VT; five grandchildren, Timothy Deyle, Kerri White, Andrea Deyle, Kathleen Deyle and William Deyle, II; a step-grandson, Tom Foster; also several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a brother, Forrest Deyle, who was killed in Italy during WW II. Funeral services for Mr. Deyle were held on Sunday, July 22, 2001, at 8:00 p.m. from the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St., Ilion, with Rev. Harry Teuchert officiating. Final interment was in the Mohawk Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, friends are asked to consider memorials to the Sue Campagna Hospice of Herkimer County or the American Cancer Society. The family would like to thank the staff of Herkimer County Hospice and the doctors and staff of Faxton Hospital for all the kindness and compassion shown them during Frank's illness. (July 21, 2001)

Robert J. (Bob) Sweeney - Ilion Alumunus, age 73, a lifelong Ilion resident, passed away Friday, July 13, 2001, at Little Falls Hospital. Bob was born January 27, 1928, in Ilion, son of John J. and Anna (King) Sweeney. He attended Ilion schools. Bob was a proud veteran, serving his country with the U.S. Army Medical Corps. At one time, he was married to Charlotte Cuda, the mother of his three daughters. Bob was employed as a machinist at the Remington Arms Co., Ilion, retiring in 1993 with many years of dedicated service. He was of the Roman Catholic faith. Survivors include his three daughters and sons-in-law, JoAnn and Bernie Bliss, of Little Falls, Robin and John Tripple, of Frankfort, and Kelly and Todd Harper, of Columbia Center; 10 cherished grandchildren, Tom and Cory Vibbard, John R., Anthony and Chelsea Tripple, Todd and Rochelle Harper, Michael Amadon, and Edward and Robert Mosher; his former wife and lifelong friend, Charlotte Cuda, and her daughter and son-in-law, Melissa and Charles Elthorp, all of Ilion; three sisters and one brother-in-law, Bernice Wright, of Ilion, Kathleen (Denison) and Gerald Gage, of Ilion, and Marie Hamiester, of Richfield Springs; one brother and sister-in-law, Loren and Carolyn Sweeney, of Ilion; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his brother, John F. Sweeney, in 1994, and his sister, Lucille Mathews, in 1982. Bob's funeral service will be held Monday, July 16, 2001, commencing at 12 noon at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, 102 West St., Ilion, with Father Joseph Benintende, Pastor of the Church of the Annunciation, officiating. Procession to St. Agnes Cemetery for interment with full military honors by the U.S. Army will follow the funeral service. Family and friends are invited to visitation Monday from 10 a.m. to 12 noon prior to the funeral service at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, Ilion. (July 14, 2001)

Elizabeth H. (Betty) Robinson Warner Class of 1940, age 78, of E. Clark St., Ilion, passed away Thursday, June 21, 2001, at St. Elizabeth Medical Center, Utica. She was born Oct. 17, 1922, in Ilion, the daughter of the late Harvey L. and Marie Byron Robinson Sr. She was educated in the Ilion school system and at the Utica School of Commerce. On May 17, 1947 she married Edward J. Warner in Ilion. He passed away in 1978. Mrs. Warner was employed as a clerk with the Herkimer County Board of Elections, retiring in 1991. She was a member of the Church of the Annunciation, Ilion, past president of the Ilion Post 920 American Legion Auxiliary, a member of the Ilion Knights of Columbus Auxiliary, a Herkimer County Democratic Committee person and had served as the treasurer of the village of Ilion's Democratic Committee, a former member of Home Bureau and a 4-H leader. Mrs. Warner is survived by three daughters and a son-in-law, Kathryn and Dennis Clark of Ilion, Joan Stivers of Cortland and Barbara Witt and her partner Milton Davis of Ilion; a sister and brother-in-law, Joan and Ron Smith of Solon, Ohio; grandchildren Richard Witt, Christine Witt, Andrea Witt, Bailee Berberick, Carol Stivers, Jason, Eric and Stephanie Clark; great grandchildren Samantha and Amanda Witt; several nieces, nephews, cousins; and several dear friends. She was predeceased by a brother, Harvey Robinson Jr. in 1959. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Monday, June 25, 2001 at 11 a.m. at the Church of the Annunciation, Ilion, with the Rev. Alfred Lamanna, officiating. Cremation will take place at Chenango Valley Crematorium in Earlville. Final interment will be in St. Agnes Cemetery, town of Herkimer. Friends may call Sunday, June 24, 2001, from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St., Ilion. Friends are asked to consider memorials to the Ilion Free Public Library in Betty's memory. (June 23, 2001)

Wayne A. Tayler Class of 1973, age 46, Applewood Drive, Ilion, beloved father, son, brother and friend, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday morning, June 16, 2001, at Little Falls Hospital. Wayne was born on November 6, 1954, in Johnson City, NY, to Bernie and Doris (Todd) Tayler, and he was educated in Ilion schools. He was a very gifted athlete throughout high school and graduated with the "class of 1973" and furthered his education by attending Mohawk Valley Community College, graduating with the "class of 1975". He lived his entire life in Ilion. Wayne was last employed in the lost prevention department at Victory Markets, Inc., in Norwich, serving the company with several years of dedicated workmanship. In addition, he also worked for the Herkimer County Sheriff's Department at one time. He was a member of the Ilion Elks Lodge #1444. Wayne leaves a beloved daughter, Samantha Tayler, of Ilion; his parents, Bernie and Doris Tayler, of Ilion; two brothers, Alan Tayler and wife, Susan, of Cedarville, and Scott Tayler and wife, Marlene, of Ilion; two sisters, Robin Tayler, of Utica, and Tammy Devins and husband, Donald, of Middleville; a special aunt and uncle, June Todd and husband, Leon, of Florida; and several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. He also leaves many special friends, including Tom and Mariann DeLong and family, of North Carolina, and also numerous "golfing buddies". Visitation at the Enea Family Funeral Home, Main St. between Ilion and Frankfort (894-8000), will be held on Tuesday, June 19, 2001, from 2-4 and 7-9 pm. Wayne's funeral service will begin at the Enea Family Funeral Home Chapel on Wednesday morning, June 20, 2001, at 11 a.m.. Funeral procession will follow from the funeral home to Armory Hill Cemetery, Ilion. Remembrances may be made to a charity of one's choice and envelopes are available at the Enea Family Funeral Home. (June 17, 2001)

Bruce A. Daily IHS 1943, age 76, of John St., passed away Friday, June 15, 2001, at home. He was born on October 22, 1924, in Ilion, the son of the late Cornelius and Grace Morgan Daily. He was a graduate of Ilion High School and Clarkson University and served with the Army-Air Corps during WW II. On April 10, 1954, Bruce married the former Teresa Izzo in Rochester. Mr. Daily was employed as an electrical engineer with General Electric in Utica, retiring several years ago. Mr. Daily was of the Catholic faith and a member of the Mohawk American Legion. He is survived by his wife, Teresa; three daughters and two sons-in-law, Andrea and Timothy O'Connell, of Mohegan Lak, NY, Mary Trueblood, of Wayland, MA, and Linda and Lee Gibbard, of Navan, Ontario, Canada; a sister, Nancy Moore, of Ship Bottom, NJ; four grandchildren; and four nieces and nephews. In keeping with Bruce's wishes, there will be no calling hours or public funeral service. Friends are asked to consider memorials to the Sue Campagna Hospice of Herkimer County. Arrangements are with the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego Street, Ilion. (June 17, 2001)

Samuel Patrei Class of 1974, age 45, Countryside Lake, Mundelein, Ill., died Saturday, June 9, 2001, at his home. He was born Jan. 13, 1956, in Ilion, N.Y., son of Louis and Viola Patrei of Apalachin, N.Y. He graduated from Ilion High School in 1974, then received his degree from Mohawk Valley Community College in 1976. He worked for D.T. Industries in Springfield, Mo., then served as president of D.T. Midwest Automation Systems in Buffalo Grove, Ill., D.T. Sencorp in Hyannis, Mass., and D.T. Assembly Machines in Erie. He was a member of St. Mary of Vernon Catholic Church in Indian Creek, Ill. He enjoyed golf, fishing and raising and showing English bulldogs. Survivors include his wife, Margie Patrei; four daughters, Whitney McGonigal of Erie, Heather McGonigal of Chicago and Jamie and Elizabeth McGonigal of Mundelein; two brothers, Arthur Patrei and his wife, Karen, of Liverpool, N.Y., and Louis J. Patrei and his wife, Suzanne, of Ilion; a sister-in-law; a granddaughter; and several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. Friends may attend a Mass of Christian Burial today at 1 p.m. at St. Mary of Vernon Catholic Church, Route 45, Indian Creek. Calling hours will follow. Arrangements are being handled by the Burnett-Dane Funeral Home, 120 W. Park Ave., Libertyville. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, 777 Central Ave., Highland Park, IL 60035. (June 12, 2001)

Harry Richard Bishton Ilion Alumnus, age 86, of Ft. Myers, FL, formerly of Chestertown, MD, died on June 11, 2001, at Heartland Healthcare Center in Ft. Myers, FL. Born in Ilion, NY, on March 28, 1915, he was the son of the late Frederick and Helena Bagans Bishton. Mr. Bishton was a graduate of Ilion High School and worked at Doty's Dairy in Ilion starting at a young age. He married Anna Margaret Penner. They moved to Baltimore, MD. Mr. Bishton worked for Greenspring Dairy before moving to Chestertown in 1947. He owned and operated Worrell Dairy on Washington Ave. until the mid 1950's. Mr. Bishton worked with several lumber companies until he and his wife, Anna, purchased Elburn's Florist and Greenhouse in the early 1960's. He retired in the mid 1980's. On August 19, 1997, his wife of 60 years predeceased him and in February of 2000, he moved to Ft. Myers, FL. He is survived by three sons, Richard H. Bishton, of Chestertown, MD, Keith Bishton, of Greenville, NC, and John B. Bishton, of Ft. Myers, FL; a daughter, Carolyn Ann Bishton Kasper, of Bridgeton, NJ; a sister, Ruth Breakiron, of Silver Spring, MD; two brothers, Robert Bishton, of Albany, GA, and James Bishton, of Lake Geneva, WI. He is also survived by 11 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. One son, the late James A. Bishton died in 1991. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, June 16, 2001, at 12 noon at St. John's Catholic Church in Rock Hall, MD. Interment will be in St. Paul's Cemetery near Chestertown, MD. Contributions in his memory will be made to Kent Hospice Foundation, 103 Dixon Dr., Chestertown, MD 21620. (June 12, 2001)

Katherine N. Conroy IHS Alumnus, age 73, passed away peacefully in her home on Thursday, June 7, 2001. She was born Aug. 18, 1927, in Ilion, the daughter of the late John and Mary Lahey Sheehan. She was educated in the Ilion School system and was employed at Mohawk Valley Nursing Home for several years. On Jan. 21, 1946, she married Robert Conroy. He passed away Dec. 31, 2000. Mrs. Conroy was a member of the Church of the Annunciation in Ilion. Katherine is survived by two sons, Daniel of Canandaigua and Sean and his companion Florence Johnson of Ilion; two daughters, Kathleen Gzanowicz of Herkimer and Kelly and her husband Rodney Myrtle of Syracuse; a sister, Mary and her husband Harold Eggelston of Ilion; two grandchildren, Garrett and Kayla Conroy; a niece, Mrs. George (Dawn) Dowd; cousins, Nona Tulloch and Marie White, as well as several close friends and colleagues from work. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated for Katherine and Robert on Sunday, June 10, at 3:30 p.m. in the Church of the Annunciation in Ilion with Fr. Joseph Benintende officiating. The interments will follow in the St. Agnes Cemetery, North Ilion. In keeping with their wishes, there are no calling hours. Friends are asked to consider memorial donations to Camp Good Days and Special Times, 1332 Pittsfield-Mendon Road, Mendon, 14506. Arrangements are with the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, Ilion. (June 8, 2001)

Patricia A. "Pat" (Rex) Charles IHS '77, age 42, Ilion, passed away Monday, June 4, 2001, at St. Luke's-Memorial Hospital with her family by her side following a long battle with scleroderma disease. Patricia was born Dec. 12, 1958, in Ilion, daughter of Carol and the late Lyman Rex of Ilion. She attended Ilion schools and was a graduate of Ilion High School "Class of 1977." Pat was united in marriage to Conrad Charles in February 1977 at the Ilion United Methodist Church. Mr. Charles passed away a while ago. She was a member of the Ilion Methodist Church. At one time she was employed by the Herkimer County Cheese Factory and more recently worked for AFSA Data Corp. in Utica. Pat is survived by her mother, Carol Rex of Ilion; her three children, Raymond Charles and his companion Maria DeJesus of Utica, Robert Charles, formerly of Ilion, and Jacqueline Charles of Little Falls; one grandson, Trent; two brothers and sisters-in-law, David and Paula Rex of Frankfort, Brian and Tammy Rex of Mississippi; two sisters and brothers-in-law, Sherry and David Krick and Kathy and Millard Marlowe, all of Ilion; her sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Ray Ann and Louie Natarelli of Mohawk and was loved by her many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by her husband, Conrad, and her father, Lyman Rex. Family and friends are invited to a Memorial Service Saturday, June 9, commencing at 12:30 p.m. at the Ilion United Methodist Church with Rev. Robert Wollaber, pastor, officiating. There are no calling hours. Interment will be held at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions in Pat's name may be made directly to the family, or to the Scleroderma Foundation. Donation envelopes are available at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, Ilion, or church. All arrangements have been entrusted to the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, 102 West St., Ilion. (June 8, 2001)

Carol Jane Smith IHS '46, age 73, of Marcy, also of North Lauderdale, FL, passed away March 30, 2001, at University Hospital, Tamarac, FL, with her loving family by her side. She was born March 8, 1928, in Utica and was raised and educated in Ilion. Carol graduated from Ilion High School in 1946 and from St. Elizabeth School of Nursing in 1949. On September 16, 1950, in Ilion, she married Donald E. Smith. He died in December 1982. During her married life, Mrs. Smith lived in Whitesboro. She was employed at St. Luke's-Memorial Hospital Center and by area doctors for many years, before moving to Florida in 1985. A loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, she will be missed by four daughters and two sons-in-law, Judith and Jack Sylvester, Ravena, NY, Janet Penge, Marcy, NY, Jo Ellen and Jim Frederick, North Lauderdale, FL, and Jill Gentile, New Port Richey, FL; seven grandchildren of whom she was very proud, Steven, Renee and husband, Tim, Dawn, Chris and husband, Jim, Kim, Amy and Mark; two very special great-grandsons, Bradley and Jesse; an aunt, Marion Spry, New Port Richey, FL; a sister-in-law, Louise Engle, Madison, CT; many nieces, nephews and cousins; and many dear friends, especially acknowledging Mary Russell of FL. In memory of Carol, please consider Hospice Foundation, VITAS Charitable Fund, 123 SE 3rd Ave., P.B.M. 110, Miami, FL 33131-2003. "Remember me not as I am now, but as I used to be. As long as I have the love and prayers of each of you, I can live my life in the hearts of all of you." Funeral services will be Wednesday, May 23, at 11:30 a.m. at St. Paul's Church, Whitesboro. Interment will be in St. John's Cemetery, Newport. Calling hours will be Wednesday, May 23, from 9:30-11:00 a.m. at the J.W. Dimbleby Funeral Home, Forty Main St., Whitesboro. (April 10, 2001)

Robert A. (Bob) List IHS '67, age 51, East Herkimer, passed away peacefully after a long illness on Friday, April 6, 2001, at his home with his family by his side. He was born Sept. 19, 1949 in Ilion, the son of the late Arthur and Mary (Emerson) List. Bob was a graduate of Ilion High School and also graduated from Mohawk Valley Community College as an Engineering Technician. For many years, Bob was a resident of the Herkimer area. He was first married to Brenda Hooley in Salt Lake City, Utah, in 1972. While married to Brenda, the couple had two sons. He was later married to Michelle Dintruff on Sept. 12, 1981 at Big Moose Chapel in Eagle Bay by the Rev. George Greene. Mr. List was a United States Army veteran, enlisting on Nov. 4, 1970 and was honorably discharged on May 9, 1972, with the rank of specialist 4 in the Military Police. For 30 years, Bob was Road and Bridge Construction Engineer for the New York State Department of Transportation in Utica. With family his foremost priority, he proved himself as a loving husband, father and grandfather. As an avid sportsman, Bob loved fishing and golf, but what he found most enjoyable was ice skating. In his leisure he enjoyed the time spent at his camp on Third Lake. Survivors include his wife of 19 years, Michelle, three sons; Keith List and wife Gina of Utah, Scott List and wife Frances of Utah and Karl List of East Herkimer; and two grandchildren, Paige and Erica List. He was predeceased by a brother, Michael List, in 1969. A memorial service will be held on Monday, April 9, 2001 at 7 p.m. from the Holleran-Enea Funeral Home, 220 N. Washington St., Herkimer, with the Rev. William Otis of the First United Methodist Church of Herkimer officiating. All memorial contributions may be made to the Sue Campagna Hospice of Herkimer County. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. (April 10, 2001)

Mrs. Mary Geraldine Losier Harrill IHS '36, age 82, a longtime resident of Forge Hill Estates in Ilion, passed away Tuesday, April 3, 2001, at the Mohawk Valley Nursing Home in Ilion. Mary received wonderful care during her stay at Mohawk Valley and her family would especially like to acknowledge her caregivers on the third floor. She was born Jan. 6, 1919, in Ilion, the daughter of the late Omer and Loretta (Morris) Losier. Mary attended Ilion schools and had been a lifelong Ilion resident. She was united in marriage to Hugh E. Harrill on Aug. 19, 1955. Mr. Harrill passed away Aug. 11, 1968. She was a member of the church of the Annunciation, Ilion. Survivors include her sister-in-law, Mrs. Bernard (Eileen) Losier of Ilion; and nieces and nephews, including John and Sharon Kowalczik of Ilion, David and Katherine Williams of Ilion, Patricia Petryk of Pompey, Paul and Linda Losier of East Herkimer and Thomas and Theresa Losier of New Jersey; 13 grand-nieces and nephews, and several cousins. She was preceded in death by her brother, Mr. Bernard Losier on Dec. 2, 1998. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated from the Church of the Annunciation in Ilion, with the Rev. Joseph Benintende, pastor, officiating. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery, Herkimer. Those wishing are asked to consider donations in memory of Mrs. Harrill to the Mohawk Valley Nursing Home. Envelopes may be obtained from the Enea Family Funeral Home. The family has entrusted funeral arrangements to the Enea Family Funeral Home, Main Street between Ilion and Frankfort (April 10, 2001)

Ronald E. Hart IHS '59, passed away Tuesday, March 20, 2001 at home. He was born June 30, 1941, in Herkimer, the son of John F. and Blanche De Long Hart. He received his education in the Ilion schools, and on July 11, 1964 he married Carol Turley. She passed away in 1991. Mr. Hart was employed as a machinist with Remington Arms, Ilion, retiring in 1999. Mr. Hart is survived by his mother Blanche Skinner of Middleville; two sons, Ronald and William, both of Ilion; a daughter and son-in-law, Lory and Mark McElwain of Clayville; two brothers, Robert Hart of Herkimer and Roger Hart of Louisiana; a sister Linda Geloso of Buffalo, NY; three grandchildren, Jami, Shannon and Erin McElwain; several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father John and a brother Richard. A memorial service for Mr. Hart was held on Friday, March 23, 2001 at 2:00 p.m. from the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, Ilion, with Rev. Robert Wollaber officiating. (April 10, 2001)

Leslie C. Ritton IHS '92, of Ilion, passed away Sunday, March 4, 2001, at home. He was born February 12, 1974, in Ilion, the son of James and Shirley Blanchard Ritton. He graduated from Ilion High School in 1992 as a high honor student. Leslie attended Hope College in Holland, Michigan, where he was a member of the Cosmopolitan Fraternity. He was a member of the Herkimer Reformed Church. Leslie is survived by his mother, Shirley Ritton, of Ilion; a brother and sister-in-law, Kristan and Kimberly and their son, Mason, of Holland, Michigan; his grandmothers, Elizabeth Jones, of Herkimer, and Irene Blanchard, of Hannibal; his Godparents, Kenneth and Sharon Snell; many aunts and uncles as well as several good friends. Leslie was predeceased by his father, James Ritton, in October of 1999. Interment will be in the Armory Hill Cemetery in the spring. Funeral arrangements were through Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, Ilion. Friends are asked to consider memorial donations to the Friends of Russell Park. Envelopes are available at the funeral home. (March 9, 2001)

Harry R. Seymour IHS '41, a former Ilion resident, died in Northern Virginia Feb. 25, 2001. He was born Feb. 27, 1923, in Ilion, the son of William and Margaret Kenefick Seymour. He graduated from Ilion High School in 1941 before entering the U.S. Navy, where he served our country during World War II. After the war he graduated from Hamilton College and from Syracuse University, where he received his master's and doctoral degrees. Harry and his wife, Betty Bleau Seymour settled in McLean, Va. His professional career then included senior U.S. Government positions in the Navy, the Public Building Service, the Department of Justice and the National Water Commission. He later held senior positions with the Brookings Institution, the Ford Foundation, the National Academy of Public Administration and the American Psychological Association. In 1980, Harry and his wife retired to Spring Valley, Calif., returning to Northern Virginia in November 2000. Survivors include his wife of 57 years; sons, Jon, Donald, James and their wives; daughters, Kathleen, Betsy, Linda, Mary and their husbands; 12 grandchildren; one sister, Rita Korniat of Herkimer; and one brother, Alfred Seymour of Ilion. He was predeceased by one sister, Margaret O'Mara and five brothers, William, Jack, Christopher, Joseph and Burton. Also a cousin, Joseph Kenefick. Cremation will be followed by memorial services March 1 and interment will take place in Arlington National Cemetery. (March 1, 2001)

Evelyn V. Price IHS Alumnus, age 79, of W. Melbourne, Fla., formerly of Ilion, died unexpectedly Monday, Feb. 26, 2001, at her home in Florida. She was born Jan. 13, 1922, in Ilion, the daughter of Earl and Grace Toombes Prue, and attended Ilion schools. On June 25, 1938, she was married to George M. Price in Mohawk. He died Sept. 6, 1986. Evelyn contributed toward the World War II effort by soldering bomb fuses at Sperry Rand Co. and Remington Arms Co. of Ilion. Survivors include four sons and three daughters-in-law, George and Marilyn Price of Cedarville, John and Charlotte Price of East Herkimer, Darrell and Carol Price of Ilion and Daniel Price and his friend Andrea Janes of Mohawk; two daughters and one son-in-law, Beverly and Rich Maziarz of Melbourne, Fla. and Eleanor Katulas of Utah; and several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.Funeral services will be held 10 a.m. Friday, March 2, at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, 102 West St., Ilion, with the Rev. Steven Price, grandson of the deceased, officiating.Spring interment will be in Mohawk Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Herkimer County Humane Society. (March 1, 2001)

Jim Ortlieb IHS 1963, age 55, of Lewisville, Texas, passed away Monday, Feb. 26, 2001, at Medical Center of Lewisville. Jim was born May 24, 1945, in Ilion, the son of Robert Herman and Lucia Marie Mihalik Ortlieb. He served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. Jim married Sue Brandt Dec. 12, 1987, in San Antonio, Texas and worked as director of logistics at Compucom in Dallas. He is survived by his wife, Sue of Lewisville; daughter, Alexandra Ortlieb of Lewisville; sons, Travis and Michael Ortlieb, both of Seattle, Wash.; his father, Bob Ortlieb of Charlotte, N.C.; brothers, Bob Ortlieb of Syracuse and Bill Ortlieb of Charlotte, N.C.; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Lue Ortlieb in 1991 and by a brother, Tom Ortlieb in 1989. The family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Alexandra Ortlieb Education Fund, c/o Bank of America. Mulkey-Mason Funeral Home of Lewisville is in charge of arrangements. (Feb 28, 2001)

Marjorie G. Jay IHS Alumnus, age 74, a lifelong resident of the community of Ilion, passed away Tuesday morning, Jan. 30, 2001, at St. Luke's-Memorial Hospital, New Hartford. Marjorie was born July 20, 1926, in Ilion, the daughter of the late William and Annie (Crossland) Anderson. She was educated in Ilion schools. She was married to William H. Pirnie, who passed away in 1962. She married Robert L. Jay in 1972. She was last employed with the General Herkimer Home as a tour guide. She also was employed with Duofold in Mohawk, Mohawk Valley Hospital and the Griffiss Air Force Base, Rome. She belonged to the Women of the Moose, Ilion. She is survived by her son, Thomas Pirnie and wife Thelma of Glens Falls; a daughter, Deborah Pirnie of Ilion; three stepchildren, the Rev. Michael Jay and wife the Rev. Gail Jay of Cold Brook, Sandra Ford of Manchester, Pa. and Robert Jay and wife Peggy of Frankfort; a brother, Charles Anderson and wife Iris of Missouri; and seven grandchildren. Her special friend and companion, John Raux, preceded her in death. Marjorie's funeral washeld from the Enea Family Funeral Home,(Main Street between Frankfort and Ilion), and from the St. Augustine's Episcopal Church, Ilion. Interment in Newport Methodist Cemetery will take place in the spring. Remembrances in Marjorie's name may be made to the American Cancer Society. (Feb 3, 2001)

Everett H. Colburn IHS Alumnus, age 86, Ilion, passed away Saturday, January 27, 2001, at St. Luke's Hospital, New Hartford. He was born January 6, 1915, in Ilion, the son of Charles and Mary Elizabeth Huber Colburn. He was a graduate of Ilion High School and served as a radioman first class with the Navy during WW II. He was stationed at Guantonamo Bay and also served in the Pacific Theater. On May 11, 1946, he married Suzanne Pollak in Herkimer. Mr. Colburn was employed as an accountant with Union Fork and Hoe for over 40 years, retiring several years ago. Mr. Colburn was a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church, Herkimer, the Ilion American Legion Post 920 and was past post commander, the Frankfort Masonic Lodge and was past master and fifty year member, the Ilion V.F.W. Post 502 and was a ham radio operator for over 50 years. Mr. Colburn is survived by his wife; a son and daughter-in-law, James E. and Judy Colburn, of Murrieta, CA; three daughters and sons-in-law, Donna C. and Brent Wheat, of Catskill, NY, Karen C. and Dennis Umber, of Scottsdale, AZ, and Patricia C. and John Glogowski, of Ilion; seven grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, Ilion. Interment will be in the Armory Hill Cemetery in the spring. Friends are asked to consider memorials to the American Heart Association. (Feb 3, 2001)

Harold E. Whittemore IHS 1934, age 85, formerly of Armory St., Ilion, and most recently of Folts Homes, Herkimer, died Friday, Jan. 26, 2001 at the Folts Homes. He was born July 29, 1915 in Utica, the son of the late Ernest M. and Minnie Monroe Whittemore. He attended Ilion schools, graduating from Ilion High School in 1934. Mr. Whittemore joined the news staff of the Utica Daily Press in 1935, covering Ilion, Frankfort and Mohawk. He volunteered for army service in May 1941, and served until May 1946, attaining the rank of first lieutenant after attending Officers Candidate School. Mr. Whittemore rejoined the Utica Press after the war and worked as a reporter, photographer, assistant Sunday Observer-Dispatch editor and family living editor until his retirement in 1980, except for seven years when he owned and published the Ilion Sentinel, a weekly newspaper. He also wrote a weekly column, "It's the Little Things" for the Observer-Dispatch from 1967 until his retirement. The column continued for several years after that in the weekly Valley Home News. He later worked at Faxton Children's Hospital as public relations director for thirteen years. Mr. Whittemore and Edna Friis were married July 13, 1942 in Ilion. Mrs. Whittemore died Oct. 1, 1987. Mr. Whittemore was a member of the Ilion Volunteer Fire Department Co. 1 for many years and also served as secretary of the Herkimer County Volunteer Firefighters Association. He was chairman and a member of the Ilion Park Commission for several years and also served as Herkimer County Chairman of the March of Dimes during the polio epidemic years. He was a member of the Ilion Kiwanis Club and the Ilion Masonic Lodge, and a deacon and chairman of trustees of the Ilion Baptist Church. He served as treasurer of the Mohawk Valley Healthcare Foundation for several years. He was also a founding member of the Herkimer County Community College Board of Trustees. Mr. Whittemore is survived by a son and daughter-in-law, Jeffery and Phyllis Whittemore of Dolgeville; a brother and sister-in-law, Robert and Betty Lou Whittemore of Oswego; several nieces and nephews and grand-nieces and grand-nephews. Funeral services for Mr. Whittemore will be held Monday, Jan. 29, at 4 p.m. at the First Baptist Church, Ilion. Interment will be in the Armory Hill Cemetery in the spring. In keeping with Mr. Whittemore's wishes, there are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, friends are invited to send remembrances to the Herkimer County Community College Foundation, Reservoir Road, Herkimer, or the First Baptist Church, Ilion. Arrangements are with the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, Ilion. (Note - An original newspaper article by Harold Whittemore, also appearing on this web site, is about the 1963 high school fire... "There Was No Laughter As Flames Gutted School"). (Jan 27, 2001)

Raymond H. Bedworth IHS Alumnus, age 88, Ilion, passed away Friday, January 19, 2001 at home. He was born June 1, 1912 in Mohawk, the son of the late George and Anna Herkimer Bedworth. He received his education in the Ilion Schools, and the University of Michigan. On November 21, 1936, he married the former Virginia Spedding in Herkimer, she passed away April 7, 1999. Mr. Bedworth was a veteran of WW serving with the Corps of Engineers in the U.S. Army in France and Germany. Mr. Bedworth was Urban Renewal Director for the Village of Ilion and also served as Village Engineer, retiring in 1970. Mr. Bedworth attended The Church of The Annunciation, Ilion and was a member of the Ilion Elks Lodge 1444 B.P.O.E., The Ilion Fish and Game Club, the Mid Valley Beagle Club, the Ilion Little Theater Club, and the Twitchell Lake Fish and Game and was an avid outdoorsman. Mr. Bedworth is survived by a daughter and son-in-law, Gail and John Miller, of Ilion; grandchildren, Michael S. Miller, Long Beach, CA., Michele and John Roberts, of Herkimer, Brian and Mary K. Miller, of Annapolis, MD and Suzanne and David Paddock, of Ilion; seven great-grandchildren and his two beagles, Ginger and Jack. He was predeceased by a son, Gary Bedworth January 4, 1998. Funeral arrangements for Mr. Bedworth were handled by the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, Ilion. Interment will be in the Armory Hill Cemetery in the spring. Memorials may be made to the Ilion Ambulance Committee or the Herkimer County Hospice in Ray's memory. (Jan 27, 2001)

Robert E. Conroy IHS Alumnus, age 75, of Ilion, passed away Sunday, Dec. 31, 2000, at St. Elizabeth Hospital, Utica. He was born June 9, 1925, in Ilion, the son of John and Myrtle Rumrell Conroy. He attended Ilion schools and served with the U.S. Navy during World War II. On Jan. 21, 1946, he married Katherine Sheehan. He was employed by the village of Ilion for 33 years, retiring in 1980. Bob was a member of the Church of the Annunciation, the Ilion Fish and Game Club, and was an avid outdoorsman who loved to hunt and fish. Mr. Conroy is survived by his wife; two sons, Daniel Conroy of Canandaigua and Sean and his companion Florence Johnson of Ilion; two daughters, Kathleen Gzanowicz of Herkimer and Kelly Conroy, Myrtle and her husband Rodney of Syracuse; a brother, John, of Texas; and a sister, Frances May of Falls Church, Va.; two grandchildren, Garrett Conroy and Kayla Conroy; a brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Harold and Mary Egleston of Ilion; a niece and her husband, Dawn and George Dowd. He was predeceased by three brothers and a sister, Donald, Richard and Kenneth Conroy and Marjorie Robinson. A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at the Church of the Annunciation at a later date with the final interment in St. Agnes Cemetery. (Jan 8, 2001)

Richard "Dick" E. Runyon IHS 1936, 82, Mohawk, formerly of Ilion, died Friday, Dec. 29, 2000, at Mohawk Valley Nursing Home, Ilion. He was born July 3, 1918, in Ilion, the son of Taylor B. and Marie Olds Runyon and graduated from Ilion High School. In August of 1937, he was married to Wanda VanDerVoort in Ilion. At one time, Dick worked at Remington Rand Co. and Remington Arms Co. of Ilion and General Electric Co. of Utica. Most recently, he was employed as the director of the personnel department of Olivetti Corp. of Harrisburg, Pa. for about 10 years, retiring in 1979. He was a member of the Ilion Baptist Church and a former member of the Ilion Masonic Lodge and the Ilion Elks Lodge 1444. Survivors include his wife, Wanda; three sons and two daughters-in-law, Duane and Jean Runyon, of Mohawk, Kenneth Runyon and his companion Karen Ford and Peter and Barbara Runyon, all of Pennsylvania; 11 grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; his sister, Dorothy of Florida; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his daughter, Christine Schremp in July of 2000. Funeral services were held Jan. 3, at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, Ilion. Memorial contributions may be made to the Ilion Baptist Church. (Jan 8, 2001)

Margaret "Maggie" Vayo (Trevor) Davidson IHS 1944, 74, Ilion, a lifelong Ilion resident, passed away at home Saturday, Dec. 23, 2000, with her beloved family by her side. Maggie was born July 9, 1926, in Ilion, daughter of Edwin J. and Margaret A. (Drumm) Vayo. She attended Ilion schools and was a graduate of Ilion High School "Class of 1944." Maggie was united in marriage to William "Bill" Trevor in Ilion on June 12, 1948. Mr. Trevor passed away in 1975. She later married Dr. Donald R. "Doc" Davidson on Aug. 12, 1995, in Ilion. Maggie was employed by New York Telephone Co. in Utica, retiring in 1991 with over 30 years of dedicated service. She was a parishioner at the Church of the Annunciation, where she served as a Eucharistic minister, greeter and was a member of the Bereavement Committee. She was also a member of the Ilion Knights of Columbus Council 518 Ladies Auxiliary. Maggie was a longtime member of the Telephone Pioneers, often volunteering for a good cause. She was also a volunteer with the Ilion School District Grade School Reading Program. An avid golfer belonging to two leagues in the summer, she also bowled with a league in the winter. A strong and dedicated woman, Maggie's life was centered around the Lord and her beloved family. She loved being outdoors, enjoyed gardening and could always be found at the various sporting events cheering for her cherished children, grandchildren and always the "Golden Bombers." Survivors include her husband, Donald "Doc" Davidson; her loving children, Patricia "Pat" and her husband Rich Reynolds of Newport, William "Bill" and his wife Rhonda Trevor of Ilion, Michael "Mike" and his wife Robin Trevor of Ilion, Kevin Trevor of Ilion, Daniel "Dan" and his wife Linda Trevor of Ilion, Thomas "Tom" and his wife Kathy Trevor of Cedarville, Bridgett and her husband Kevin McKinley of Ilion, and Kelly and her husband Frank Sheffield of Ilion; her stepchildren, Marcia Lyons and her husband Charles of Clifton Park, Cindy Eller and her husband Jack of Herdon, Va. and Donald R. Davidson IV and his wife Joanie of Laguna Nigel, Calif.; 14 grandchildren, nine step-grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; her sisters-in-law and brother-in-law, Jewel Vayo, Leona Holden, Shirley Willoughby and Doris Trevor, all of Ilion, and Fred and Phyllis Davidson of Laconia, N.H. Maggie also leaves many nieces, nephews and countless special friends. She was predeceased by her husband, Bill, her son Mark Andrew Trevor in 1966, her brother, William "Bud" Vayo, and her sisters, Kay Cooper and Mary Ann Bentz. Maggie's funeral service will be held Thursday, Dec. 28, 2000, commencing at 9:15 a.m. at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, 102 West St., Ilion and 10 a.m. at the Church of the Annunciation where Father Joseph Benintende, pastor, will celebrate a Mass of Christian Burial. Interment in Armory Hill Cemetery will take place this spring at a date and time to be announced. Family and friends are invited to visitation Wednesday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, Ilion. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions in Maggie's name to the American Cancer Society, American Lung Association or Herkimer County Hospice. (December 27, 2000)

Joseph Sorge - Ilion NY
Mr. Joseph Sorge
Athletic Directory and Coach

Mr. Joseph Sorge, Director of Physical Education and Athletics, and Coach, age 74, of Ilion, died Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2000, unexpectedly at his home. He was born in Silver Creek, N.Y., Feb. 11, 1926, to Charles and Francesca Leone Sorge. He served with the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. He was a graduate of SUNY College at Brockport, class of 1950, with a degree in health and physical education and then attended SUNY-Cortland and received a certificate as director of health, physical education and recreation. While employed with the Ilion school system in 1953, Joe met and married Rose Mary Tyburski. She died March 22, 1995.

In 1992, Mr. Sorge was inducted into the SUNY Brockport Hall of Fame. Mr. Sorge had an extensive career in scholastic athletics. Some of the highlights of his career include: he was a member of the SUNY-Brockport varsity basketball team, 1947-50; co-captain during the 1949-50 season; Most Valuable Player, 1949-50; a member of the varsity track and field team, 1948-49; set records in 100-yard dash, shot put and javelin; and was undefeated in the 100-yard dash in collegiate competition. He was employed as the director of physical education and athletics at Ilion Central School from 1960-1972. He was districtwide director of physical education and athletics at Utica City schools serving from 1972 until his 1985 retirement. Mr. Sorge coached champions in cross-country, track and field and basketball. He established Section III Football Championships and was Section III representative to both the NYSPHSSA Central Committee for Athletic Directors and the Executive Committee. As a Rotarian, he chaired a committee that honored outstanding educators in seven school districts; president of Herkimer County Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) and Board of Education; president of the Greater Utica Sports Hall of Fame Committee; first vice-president of the Oneida-Madison-Herkimer Counties Board of Education. His survivors include his three sons, John Sorge of Ilion, Kevin Sorge of Ilion and Christopher Sorge of Branford, Conn.; a daughter and her husband, Joanne and Bill Iman of Clinton; a sister, Etta Mayles of California and a sister-in-law, Louise Sorge of Silver Creek. He also leaves a granddaughter, Sarah of Utica. He was predeceased by his brothers, Vincent and Gerald Sorge. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial to be held Saturday morning at 10 at the Church of the Annunciation, Ilion. Burial will be in Holy Trinity Cemetery. (December 16, 2000)

Albert D. "Albs" DeForrest IHS 1973, age 46, of 172 West St., Ilion, passed away Thursday, Dec. 14, 2000, at home with his loving family by his side. Albert was born in Herkimer April 25, 1954, son of Daniel and Edna (McCoy) DeForrest Jr. He attended Ilion schools. He was a proud veteran serving with the U.S. Army and was a member of Ilion American Legion Post 920. On Dec. 17, 1977, he was united in marriage to Ginger L. Wellington in Ilion, a blessed union of 26 years. Albert was employed by Fiberdyne Labs. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, enjoyed golfing and spending time with his family and many friends. Albert and Ginger enjoyed socializing with friends at the Club BA, where he will be dearly missed. Survivors include his beloved wife, Ginger; three children, Shannon DeForrest and her friend Joe Lawrence, Rory DeForrest, and Virginia DeForrest and her friend Justin Estey of Little Falls; one grandson, Joseph Lawrence Jr.; his mother, Edna DeForrest of Ilion; his brothers and sisters, Daniel J. DeForrest and his wife Sandra of Trumbull, Conn., Theresa Herms and her husband Joseph of Naples, Fla., Edna Campione and her husband Frank of Little Falls, and Patrick DeForrest and his wife Ruthanne of Tampa, Fla.; his father-in-law Gerald Wellington of Ilion; his sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Sharon and Norman Penman of Cape Cod, Mass., Francis and Donna Wellington of Mohawk, and Donna Wellington of Little Falls; several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. He also leaves many close and special friends. Albert was predeceased by his father, Daniel J. DeForrest Jr.; his son, Eric Johnson; mothers-in-law, Virginia Wellington and Bernie Wellington; and his brother-in-law, Thomas Wellington. Albert's funeral service will be held Sunday, Dec. 17, commencing at 5 p.m. at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, 102 West St., Ilion. Family and friends are invited to visitation Sunday from 3-5 p.m. prior to the funeral service at Applegate & Day Funeral Home, Ilion. Interment with full military honors will take place this spring in Armory Hill Cemetery at a date and time to be announced. Memorial contributions may be considered in Albert's name to Herkimer County Hospice. (December 16, 2000)

Edward E. Moreau IHS Alumnus, age 80, Ilion, passed away on Friday evening, Dec. 8, 2000, at Faxton Hospital in Utica. He was born on May 10, 1920, in Three Rivers, Canada, the son of the late Azarias and Valerie (Pellerin) Moreau. Edward's family moved to the Ilion area when he was four, and they had lived here since. He attended Ilion schools, and was a veteran of the United States Army, having served our country during World War II. He was honorably discharged, and upon relief from active duty held the rank of staff sergeant. In respect of Mr. Moreau's dedicated service to his country, our government awarded him with a Purple Heart, of which he was very proud. He joined in marriage with Elizabeth J. "Betty" McCarthy on Jan. 11, 1947, at Annunciation Church in Ilion with Monsignor Horan officiating. Mrs. Moreau passed away on Oct. 23, 1999. Ed worked with Univac as a supervisor for over 31 years and was last employed with the Ilion Housing Authority, retiring in 1987. He was a communicant of the Church of the Annunciation, and was a third-degree member of the Ilion Knights of Columbus. He was a lifetime member of Disabled American Veteran's, an exempt member of the CW Carpenter Company Hose No. 2, and a former VFW member. He also joined many friends as a member of the Lost Chord Club. Ed is survived by his children, Thomas Moreau and his special friend Carolyn Guilmette of Ilion, Michelle Day of Ilion, and Margaret "Peggy" Olson and her husband Richard of Mohawk; grandchildren, Eric and Becky Moreau, Johnny, Joey, Nicole and Kelly Day, and David and Kevin Olson; brothers, John Moreau of Connecticut, Henry Moreau and wife Beverly of Ilion, Francis Moreau and wife Cis of Ilion, and Alfred Moreau of Ilion; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his daughter-in-law, Kathy Duffy Moreau in 1993; and several brothers and sisters. Funeral services with full military honors offered by the United States Army were held on Dec. 12, 2000, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at the Church of the Annunciation, Ilion, with the Rev. Joseph Benintende, pastor, officiating. Interment will take place in Armory Hill Cemetery. Those wishing are asked to consider donations to either the American Cancer Society or to a charity of one's choice. (December 16, 2000)

Walter D. Bird IHS 1936, age 86, a former Ilion resident and more recently of Folts Homes, Herkimer, passed away Saturday, Dec. 2, 2000, at Little Falls Hospital. Walter was born Nov. 22, 1913, the son of the late William and Emma (Pearl) Bird. He received his education in Ilion and graduated with the class of 1936. On June 1, 1938, he was joined in marriage with his companion, Sarah. The couple's 62-year union was based upon their exemplary and remarkable dedication to each other. Mr. Bird's professional life spanned many years; he was last employed as an electronics assembler for Unisys in Ilion with 20 years of dedicated service. He also was a salesman for Stewarts Landscaping in New York City and at one time was employed by Bull Brothers. He was proud to serve our country with the U.S. Army. Walter had a number of special interests and activities: these interests centered around sports,especially his love for bowling. He was instrumental instarting the Ilion High School bowling team and alsohelped establish teams for students around the state.He also loved to attend the Ilion High School basketball and football games. He is survived by his family including his beloved wife, Sarah; two sons, James Bird and wife Patricia of Australia and Roger William Bird and wife Kathy of Syracuse; three daughters, Joyce Andrea Thurston and husband David of Deerfield, Sallie Ann Thomas and husband William of Las Vegas, Nev. and Marilyn Spriggs and husband David of Syracuse; one sister, Bernice Bird of Deerfield; 12 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins and in-laws. He was preceded in death by his special brother-in-law, James Maclean and his sister-in-law, Eleanor MacGregor. A word of prayer and celebration of Walter's life will be offered Tuesday, Dec. 5, from the Jesus Christ Church of Latter Day Saints, Herkimer Procession will follow to Oak Hill Cemetery where interment will take place. Full military honors will be accorded by the U.S. Army. Walter's funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Enea Funeral Home, Frankfort/Ilion. (December 4, 2000)

If you would like to make a contribution, in memory of a deceased alumnus, please consider The Central Valley Central School District/Ilion School Foundation.

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