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Condolences.....

Catherine L. (Wood) Sandford IHS Alumnus, age 84, of 143 Brook St., Ilion, passed away Sunday, December 21, 2003, at St. Elizabeth's Medical Center, Utica. Catherine was born in Ilion, daughter of Lesley V. and Anna (Schoeneberg) Wood. She attended Ilion schools and was a graduate of Ilion High School. In 1942, she was united in marriage to George I. Sandford in Ilion. Mr. Sandford passed away in 1987. A dedicated homemaker and devoted mother, Mrs. Sandford's life was centered around her beloved family. She was of the Methodist faith. Survivors include one daughter and son-in-law, Dorothea and Fred Seal of California; two sons and daughters-in-law, George I. (Sandy) and Joy Sandford of Colorado, and Robert W. and Gail Sandford, also of Colorado; her brother with whom she resided, Robert H. Wood of Ilion; four grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her sister, Marie Good; brother, James Wood; and brother and sister-in-law, John and Jeanette Wood. In keeping with Mrs. Sandford's wishes, there will be no public calling hours or funeral services. All arrangements have been entrusted to the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, 102 West St., Ilion. (December 23, 2003)

William J. Stagg Sr. IHS Alumnus, age 78, of 603 London Towers, Ilion, passed away Monday, Dec. 15, 2003, at St. Elizabeth Medical Center, Utica. He was born Jan. 7, 1925, in Newark, N.J., the son of the late Harry and Helen (O'Rourke) Stagg. He was educated in the Ilion school system, and was a veteran of World War II and Korea, serving with the Army Air Corps and the U.S. Air Force. Mr. Stagg was employed as produce manager with the Acme Markets. He also worked at the Ilion Home Service and Bill De John's Discount Beverages in Ilion. He was a member of the Church of the Annunciation in Ilion. Mr. Stagg is survived by son, William Jr. of Ilion; two daughters and a son-in-law, Lori and Thomas Geise of Utica and Jayne Stagg of Ilion; two sisters, Helen Elizabeth Stagg of Syracuse and Rita Morrison of Florida; two grandchildren, Ryan Christopher Stagg of Ilion and Raymond Joseph Geise of Utica; a great-grandson, Christopher William Stagg of Ilion. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Tuesday, Dec. 23, at 10:30 a.m. from the Church of the Annunciation with Fr. Joseph Benintende, officiating. Interment will be in Crown Hill Memorial Gardens Cemetery, New Hartford. Friends may call Monday, Dec. 22, from 4-6 p.m. at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St., Ilion. (December 23, 2003)

Edna C. (McCoy) DeForrest IHS Alumnus, age 79, formerly of Ilion, died on Friday, December 12, 2003, at St. Joseph Hospital, Tampa, FL, after a long illness. She was born on March 12, 1924, in Ilion, the daughter of Albert and Grace Jones McCoy, and attended Ilion schools. On July 31, 1942, she was married to Daniel J. DeForrest, Jr., in Ilion. He died on November 17, 1978. At one time, Edna was a school crossing guard in Ilion. She was also employed at the General Herkimer Motel, Herkimer. Edna was a lifelong parishioner of the Church of the Annunciation, a past Regent of the Court St. Bridget #265 Catholic Daughters of Americas, and a member of the Ilion K of C Auxiliary. Edna loved her family dearly. She enjoyed parties at the Knights, family reunions, and travel. A highlight of her trip to Ireland was kissing the Blarney Stone on May 3, 1990. Survivors include two daughters and sons-in-law, Edna and Frank Campione of Kaiser Lake, NY, Theresa and Joseph Herms of Naples, FL; two sons and three daughters-in-law, Daniel and Sandra DeForrest of St. Petersburg, FL, Patrick and Ruthanne DeForrest, with whom she resided in Tampa, FL, and Ginger DeForrest of Ilion; 13 grandchildren, Matthew, Michelle, Daniel and Gregory DeForrest, Gregory Mumford, Thomas Bliss, Rachael Minihan, Natasha Campione, Rory, Shannon, and Ginny DeForrest, Christopher and Colleen Herms; and five great-grandchildren, Samantha, Jasmine, and Alexis Mumford, Jonah Minihan, and Joseph Lawrence; one sister, Florence Richards of Ilion; three sisters-in-law, Catherine Harrington of Herkimer, Helen Sivack of Little Falls, and Agnes DeForrest of Herkimer; several nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was predeceased by her son, Albert; three sisters, Grace Stephens, Charlotte Sweet, and Gladys Capes. Funeral services will be held at 9:15 a.m., Thursday, December 18, 2003, at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, 102 West St., Ilion, and 10 a.m. at the Church of the Annunciation, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Father Joseph Benintende, Pastor. Spring interment will be in Armory Hill Cemetery, Ilion. Calling hours are Wednesday, December 17, 2003, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, 102 West St., Ilion. The family would like to thank the healthcare providers for their assistance and kindness during the last years of their mother's life. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Lung Association, or the charity of your choice. Donation envelopes are available at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home. (December 23, 2003)

Bernard C. Murray IHS 1942 and Science Teacher, age 79, of George St., Ilion, passed away on December 7, 2003 at his home. Bernard was born on May 21, 1924 in Ilion, the son of the late Frank and Julia (O'Hara) Murray. He was raised in North Ilion and was a 1942 graduate of Ilion High School. Mr. Murray was married to the former Eloise Ford. During WW II, Mr. Murray was a member of the Army Air Corps and served as a Staff Sgt., with the 434 Bomber Squadron, in the BCI Theater. After returning from the war, he went to Utica College where he earned his teaching degree. Bernard was employed as a teacher in the Ilion School System, retiring in 1979. He was also employed with the Ilion Board of Light. Mr. Murray was a long time member of the Ilion Elks Lodge #1444 and the Ilion Knights of Columbus.

Bernard Murray - Ilion NY
Bernard Murray
1975 - Science

Mr. Murray was also a former mayor and trustee of the Village of Ilion and a former town councilman for German Flatts. Bernard enjoyed hiking and the outdoors, especially his camp in Forrest Port. He also enjoyed working in his hobby shop and engaging in spirited conversation with his many friends. Bernard is survived by his longtime companion, Linda Knight; two sons and a daughter-in-law, Brian and Deb Murray of Ilion, and Fran Murray of West Winfield; two daughters, Pam Murray and her fiance Sam Noti of Ilion, and Mary and Art Collis of Harleysville, PA; a sister-in-law, Helen Murray of Cincinnati, OH; seven adored grandchildren, Theresa, Janice, Gail, Nicole and Joe Murray, and Andrea and Catherine Collis; two cousins, Lonnie Jull of Utica, and June Ellen Kiefer of Old Forge. He was predeceased by two brothers, Fran and Allan Murray; and a cousin, Robert Murray. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, December 11, 2003 at 10 a.m. in St. Anthony and St. Joseph's Church with Fr. Robert Shinos officiating. Friends may call on Wednesday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St. Ilion. (December 10, 2003)

William J. Pedersen IHS Alumnus, age 85, of S. Fourth Ave., Ilion, passed away Dec. 7, 2003, at Faxton Hospital in Utica. He was born Jan. 5, 1918, in Ilion, the son of the late Carl and Elizabeth Clausen Pedersen. A lifelong resident, Mr. Pedersen graduated from Ilion High School. On Aug. 4, 1943, in Glens Falls, he married Shirley Adams. Mrs. Pedersen passed away May 8, 2003. Prior to his retirement, Mr. Pedersen was employed with the Remington Arms Co. for many years. He served with the United States Army during World War II. Mr. Pedersen was a member of St. Augustine Episcopal Church and its Men's Club, the Ilion Fish and Game Club and the Mohawk American Legion. He also enjoyed and was an avid bowler. Mr. Pedersen is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Karen and Charles Travell of Stamford; two grandchildren and their spouses, Larry Jr. and Christine Miller of Hobart and Kimberley and Luc Walterthumof France; two great-grandchildren, Madison Miller and Clara Walterthum; several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by three brothers, Carl Pedersen, Robert Pedersen and James Pedersen. Funeral services will be Wednesday at 11 a.m. from St. Augustine Episcopal Church, Ilion, with the Rev. Thomas Trees officiating. Spring interment will be in Armory Hill Cemetery, Ilion. At the family's request, there will be no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, please consider donation to St. Augustine Episcopal Church, 78 Second St., Ilion. Funeral arrangements are with Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home Inc., 110 Otsego St., Ilion. (December 10, 2003)

Betty L. (Fike) Wellington IHS Alumnus, age 80, formerly of Prindle Apartments and 53 W. Clark St., Ilion, died Monday, Dec. 1, 2003, at Mohawk Valley Nursing Home, with her daughter, Marianne, by her side, as she had been for so many years. She was born on July 27, 1923, in Ilion, the daughter of Frank and Rosa (Squire) Fike and attended Ilion schools. On March 7, 1964, she was married to John Wellington in Ilion. He died in 1977. Betty was an assembler at General Electric for 12 years, and Mele Manufacturing Co. for 10 years, retiring in 1986. She attended the First Baptist Church of Ilion. Throughout the years, her grandchildren were very important to her and many times gave her strength to continue through the trials of life. Survivors include two daughters and one son-in-law, Marianne and Donald Reynolds of Ilion and Christine Gilbert of Selma, N.C.; two sons and one daughter-in-law, Thomas and Phyllis Hotaling of Brandon, Fla., and John Hotaling of Jacksonville, Fla.; one brother, Harold Fike of Little Falls; two stepchildren, several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by two brothers, Gordon and Harry Fike; and one grandson, Shawn Hotaling. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, 102 West St., Ilion, with the Rev. Paul Smith, pastor of the First Baptist Church of Ilion, officiating. Interment will be in Oak Hill Cemetery, Herkimer. Calling hours are Wednesday, Dec. 3, from 5-8 p.m. at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, Ilion. (December 10, 2003)

Kenneth L. 'Moose' Miller IHS 1950, age 74, of 153 Kent Blvd., Ilion, passed away Thursday, Nov. 27, 2003 at his home. Ken was born on Sept. 5, 1929 in Ilion, the son of the late Lee Kenneth and Pauline (Unsinn) Miller. He was educated in Ilion and in 1952, he married the former Shirley Smith in Syracuse. Ken was employed in production control with General Electric in Utica, and also with UNIVAC and MDS. After his retirement, he drove the pre-K bus for Bernie Bus of Utica. Ken was of the Baptist faith. He was the founder of the Ilion Snow Drifters Snowmobile Club in 1970, he was a member of the Ilion Fish and Game Club and past member of its board of directors, a member of the Ilion Elks Lodge 1444 B.P.O.E. and the Canadarago Lake Association. Ken is survived by his wife Shirley and his children Scott and Lynne of Ilion, Bonnie of Barnesville, S.C., and Santos, of Barnesville, S.C.; a brother-in-law and sister-in-law Jim and Nancy Smith of 'The Villages,' Florida; an uncle and aunt, Ronald and Martha Unsinn of Ilion; and an aunt, Margaret Powell of Mohawk. Ken also leaves his grandchildren whom he loved and adored, Josh and Kayleigh; as well as several cousins; also, his close snowmobile buddies Jake Putch and R.A. Luke; and his many friends at Donna's Diner, Chet's in Herkimer and the Knight Spot in Frankfort. In keeping with Ken's wishes, the funeral service will be held at the convenience of the family. There are no calling hours. Friends may consider memorials to the Herkimer County Humane Society in Ken's memory. Arrangements are with the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St., Ilion. (December 10, 2003)

Shirley A. Miller IHS Alumnus, age 73, formerly of Ilion and Cedarville, died Tuesday, Nov. 25, 2003 at St. Luke's Memorial Hospital, New Hartford, after a long illness. She had been a resident of St. Luke's Home. She was born June 22, 1930 in Ilion, the daughter of Fred and Esther Coons Smith and graduated from Ilion Central High School. On Feb. 24, 1979, she was married to Roger L. Miller in Ilion. He died Feb. 9, 2002. Shirley was employed as a documentary specialist at Mohawk Data Science (MDS) of Herkimer for 15 years. She attended the Church of the Annunciation in Ilion. Shirley had an avid love for cats and enjoyed knitting and crocheting. Survivors include her sister, Gladys Susman and her husband Richard of Holland Patent and several nieces, and nephews. She was predeceased by her sister, Marguerite Dunning in 1982 and her brothers Russell Smith in 1976 and Fred Smith Jr. in 1981. Funeral services will be held at noon Saturday, Nov. 29, at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, 102 West St., Ilion, with Father Joseph Benintende, pastor of the Church of the Annunciation, officiating. Interment will be in Crown Hill Memorial Park, town of Kirkland. Visitation will be held on Saturday from 11 a.m. until noon, prior to the service at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, Ilion. Memorial contributions may be made to the Central New York Chapter of the Arthritis Foundation. Donation envelopes are available at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home.. (December 10, 2003)

Michael J. 'Mike' Dedla IHS 1975, age 46, currently of East Main Street, Frankfort, formerly a lifelong Ilion resident, passed away at home unexpectedly Thursday, Nov. 20, 2003, following a brief illness. Mike was born Oct. 10, 1957, in Ilion, son of Michael II and Janet (Watchers) Dedla. He attended Ilion schools. Mike was last employed as a plant operator at the hydroelectric facility in Herkimer. Prior to that he worked on various construction projects in the valley area. At one time he enjoyed hunting and fishing. Mike loved to "BS" and tell stories. Survivors include his mother, Janet Watchers of Newport; four sons, Jesse Dedla and his wife Brenda of Frankfort, Daniel and Derek Dedla, both of Frankfort, and Matt Murray of Starkville; two grandchildren, Tyler Grippe and Kiley Dedla; three sisters, Jana Brooks and her husband Jay of Rhode Island, Pamela and Patricia Dedla, both of Herkimer; his aunt, Jeanne Watchers of Newport; his nephew, Catlin Brooks; several cousins and his good friend, John Mento of Florida. He was predeceased by his grandparents, his father, aunt Mug and uncle John Dedla. Mike's funeral service will be held Sunday, Nov. 23, commencing at 1 p.m. at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, 102 West St., Ilion, with the Rev. Victor McKusick, pastor of the Ilion First Presbyterian Church, officiating. Family and friends are invited to visitation Sunday from noon-1 p.m. prior to the funeral service at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, Ilion. (November 24, 2003)

Frederick C. Reynolds IHS Alumnus, age 76, of 80 Concord St., passed away Thursday, Nov. 13, 2003 at Valley Health Services. He was born on Dec. 10, 1926, in Ilion, the son of the late Charles and Edna Hemstead Reynolds. A lifelong resident, Mr. Reynolds was a graduate of Ilion High School. On Dec. 10, 1949, he married Virginia Wood. Mr. Reynolds was employed with Remington Arms for 10 years. He was formerly employed with Univac in Utica for several years prior. Mr. Reynolds served in the United States Army during WW II. He was a member of Annunciation Church and Men's Breakfast Club at the First Presbyterian Church. Mr. Reynolds was very active in the Boy Scouts of America and enjoyed golfing, especially in the Univac Golf League. He is survived by his wife Virginia; one son and daughter-in-law, Donald and Marianne Reynolds of Ilion; three daughters and sons-in law, Phyllis and William Laymon Sr., of Malone, Linda and James Marco of Ithaca and Sharon and Thomas Vorce of Sauquoit; one brother and two sisters-in law, Robert and Leola Reynolds and Sophia Reynolds, all of Ilion; two sisters and one brother-in-law, Adelaide Bunce of Frankfort and Thelma and Edmund "Ned" Hart of Mohawk; eight grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Monday from Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home Inc., 100 Otsego St., Ilion, with the Rev. Joseph Benintende and the Rev. Victor McKusick, co-officiating. Friends may call at the funeral home from 11 a.m. until the time of the services. Interment will be in Oak Hill Cemetery, Herkimer. Memorials may be made to the First Presbyterian Church or to a charity of one's choice in his memory. (November 24, 2003)

Albert J. 'Red' Jennett Jr. IHS Alumnus, age 66, of 38 East Main St., Mohawk, passed away unexpectedly Thursday, Nov. 13, 2003, following a long and courageous battle with cancer and heart disease. Red was born Dec. 23, 1936 in Ilion, son of Albert J. Sr. and Minnie (Rowland) Jennett. He attended Ilion schools. At one time he was married to Nancy Ouellet. Red was last employed as a final assembler at the Remington Arms Co., Ilion, retiring in 2000 with approximately 36 years of dedicated service. Prior to that he worked at Sperry-Rand in Ilion. He was of the Roman Catholic faith. Red enjoyed bowling, fishing and the outdoors. He liked to go to the casino and spend leisure time with his best friend, Jeff Petrie. Red was a loving father, grandfather and brother. Survivors include his two daughters, Susan E. Lowery of Mohawk, and Denise Jennett and her girlfriend Donna of Amsterdam; five sons, Joseph and Colleen Jennett of Oregon, Charles "Chuck" Jennett, John Jennett of Mohawk, Albert Jennett III of Mohawk and Rick Burton of Ilion; Twenty cherished grandchildren; one great-grandson; one brother and sister-in-law John and Nancy DeLisle of Virginia; two sisters and brothers-in-law, Mary and William Engelbrecht of Ilion and Jean and Ken Parkhurst of Mohawk; and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents, one brother Charles Jennett, one sister Elizabeth Jennett, his granddaughter Jayd Jennett and his grandson Joseph Jennett Jr. Family and friends are invited to visitation Sunday, Nov. 16, from 1-4 p.m. at the Graves-Applegate-Day Funeral Home, 48 E. Main St., Mohawk. Red's funeral service will commence Sunday following visitation at 4 p.m., in the Graves Applegate-Day Funeral Home, with the Rev. Alfred Lamanna, officiating. In lieu of floral offerings, please consider memorial contributions in Red's name to the Mohawk-Herkimer Food Pantry. Donation envelopes are available at the funeral home. Red's family would like to extend a special thank you to Bill Paslak, Jeff Petrie, Dr. Buttala, Michelle and staff, Dr. Sperling, Joann and staff and Dr. Sherman and staff. (November 24, 2003)

Beulah E. Angle Ilion Alumnus, age 73, of Palmetto, FL, passed away Nov. 9, 2003, after a brief illness. She was born March 13, 1930, in Ilion, the daughter of the late Harry J. and Ada (Waldron) Hyde. On June 29, 1947, she married Paul E. Angle in Ilion. Her main focus was always on her home and family whom she cherished with great pride. She had a strong belief in God and was a devoted member of the First United Methodist Church of Ilion, where she sang in the church choir and was a member of the United Methodist Women. She was a charter member of the AARP Mohawk Valley Widowed Persons Service and served on the executive board of directors. Beulah was a compassionate and loving person who was always available to help others in need. She will be greatly missed by her church family, friends and especially her family. She is survived by one daughter, Paula D. Carey and her husband Charlie of Yorkville; one brother, Sam Hyde of Waterford; six grandchildren, Don Van Valkenburgh and his wife Cheryl, Jim Van Valkenburgh, Phil Carey and his wife Maria, Mike Carey, Christopher and Roy Abeling; and three great-grandchildren. Funeral service will be on Wednesday evening at 5 in Fenner Funeral Home Inc., 115 Court St., Herkimer. The family will be present in the funeral home to receive relatives and friends from 3-5 p.m. Memorial donations may be made to Mohawk Valley Widowed Person Services or the Ruth E. Abeling Scholarship Fund at Utica College. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. (November 13, 2003)

Myron 'Mike' Bouck IHS 1947 & Industrial Arts Teacher/Coach, age 74, of Palmetto, FL, passed away after a heroic battle with heart disease and cancer on Oct. 23, 2003. Born April 15, 1929, in Ilion, he earned his teaching degree from Oswego University; his masters degree from Oneonta University and was an Army Veteran of the Korean War. "Mr. Bouck" was an Industrial Arts and Physical Education coach at Ilion High School and a member of the United Federation of New York State Teachers. He and his wife, Mary, moved to Palmetto, Fla. in 1981. Survivors include his loving wife of 31 years, Mary; daughters Erin and partner Brian of Pasadena, Calif., Jacqueline Murphy of Mohawk, Judy Nudo and husband William of Mohawk and Jan Nudo and husband Robert of Saratoga; sons Christopher and wife Jeanine of Dolgeville, Michael and wife Barbara of Littleton, Colo., Matthew and wife Shannon of West Melbourne, Fla., and Donald Casey and wife Theresa of Mohawk; brothers, Lewis, Donald and wife Betty of Ilion, and David and wife Irene of Schuyler; 24 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by brothers, Paul and Frank and grandson, Daniel. A memorial service will be held on Friday, Oct. 31st, 11 a.m. at St. Mary's Episcopal Church in West Palmetto. Another memorial service will be held in Ilion in the Spring. Mike will always be remembered for his love of life and how a positive attitude can help you achieve anything. He will be missed by everyone who loved him. Donations: Hospice of Southwest FL, 5955 Rand Blvd. Sarasota, FL 34238. (October 31, 2003)

Jason Matthew-Austin Allbright IHS 1990, age 31, of Sterling, VA, went to be with the Lord on October 21, 2003 following a tragic accident. He was born on January 3, 1972 in New Hartford. Jason graduated from Ilion High School, Ilion, NY, in 1990. He then received a full academic scholarship to Bryant and Stratton Business College, Albany, NY, in which he received two Associate Degrees. Jason had been a resident of Virginia since 1993. He established the Handy Neighbor Contracting Company in Sterling, VA, in 2001. Jason was an exceptional man who touched the lives of everyone he met and will be greatly missed. Jason was the beloved husband of Leah Phillips Allbright; outstanding and devoted father of Hayley Elizabeth Allbright, Jacob Ethan Allbright and Zachary Dean Allbright; "Solid Gold" son of James R. and Pamela Belfield Allbright of Albany, NY; brother of Andrew James Allbright and Jared Adam Allbright, both of Manassas, VA; grandson of M. Clayton Allbright of Utica, NY, Justus and Lillian Belfield of Brick, NJ. Also survived by several aunts, uncles, and numerous other family and friends. Funeral services will be held on Monday, October 27, at 1 p.m. at J.W. Dimbleby Funeral Home, 40 Main Street, Whitesboro, NY. Interment will immediately follow at Greenlawn Cemetery, New Hartford, NY. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions may be to Galilee United Methodist Church, 20600 Broad Run Drive, Sterling, VA 20165. (October 31, 2003)

Kiernan (Kyran) G. Crough IHS Alumnus, age 76, of Camden, N.Y, formerly of Ilion, died Sunday, Oct. 19, 2003, at the Valehaven Home for Adults, Camden. He was born April 6, 1927, in Ilion, the son of John and Helen Murphy Crough. Kiernan attended Annunciation School, Ilion, and Ilion High School. He also attended Annunciation Church. Survivors include his sister, Helen (Crough) Brown of Norwich, Conn., several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents and three sisters, Mary Fagan, Julia Seymour and Theresa Warner. Graveside services will be held 9 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2003, at St. Agnes Cemetery, North Ilion, with Father Joseph Benintende, pastor of the Church of the Annunciation, officiating. There are no calling hours. All arrangements were entrusted to Applegate & Day Funeral Home, 102 West St., Ilion. (October 31, 2003)

Shirley Marie Padgham Fischer IHS 1941, age 79, of Denicola's Easy Living, formerly of 38 Richfield St., Ilion, passed away Monday, Oct. 20, 2003, at home. Shirley was born Oct. 21, 1923, in Ilion, the daughter of the late Frank and Mae (Bellow) Padgham. She was educated in Annunciation School and was a 1941 graduate of Ilion High School and on March 29, 1946, she was united in marriage to William Fischer in Ilion. He passed away in 1994. Shirley was employed as a bookkeeper with Nehr Chevrolet, Perkins Buick and Marriott Chevrolet. Shirley was a member of the Mohawk Valley Hospital Guild and was of the Catholic faith. Shirley is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, William and Deanna of Ilion; her daughter and son-in-law, Janice and Gilbert Smith of Ilion; seven grandchildren, Kristen, Kathryn and Kelly Fischer and Kerri, Tracy, Christy and Gale Smith; two sisters-in-law, Dawn Padgham of Florida and Betty Powers of California, as well as several friends at Easy Living and nieces and nephews. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, Oct. 23, at 9:30 a.m. at Our Lady Queen of Apostles Church in Frankfort. Interment will follow in the Armory Hill Cemetery in Ilion. Friends may call today from 4-7 p.m. at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St., Ilion. Shirley's family would like to thank Carmen and Sue Denicola at Easy Living for all the love and care given her during her six-year stay and also Dr. William Parker and staff for the care given. (October 31, 2003)

Ronald F. DeCarr Sr. IHS 1969, age 51, of Gretel Terrace, died Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2003, at his residence after a courageous battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), more commonly known as Lou Gehrig's Disease. Born in Ilion, Ron was the son of Julie Szewczyk DeCarr of Ilion and the late Francis DeCarr. Ron was a graduate of Ilion High School, Brockport University and later received his master's degree from SUNY Albany. Ron worked for the New York State Health Department as a health program administrator. He was the devoted husband and best friend to Kathleen Doremus DeCarr, whom he married Sept. 18, 1982. Ron enjoyed coaching his sons in sports and spending time with his family. Ron enjoyed being outdoors and most days could be found in the backyard swinging a bat, pitching a ball or shooting hoops with his children. Ron was a caring man with a quick wit and dry sense of humor. No one could ask for a better husband, father, son, brother, uncle, cousin or friend. Ron was the very proud father of Ronald Francis Jr., Jeffrey Albert and Lucas Michael. He is the beloved brother of Gary DeCarr of Pennellville, Richard DeCarr of Syracuse, Wayne DeCarr of Warners, Patti Herrmann of Syracuse, John DeCarr of Durhamville and Sheila Emrich of Ilion. Ron is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Ron understood the importance of medical research for this rare disease and donated his tissue in the hopes of helping future patients with ALS.The funeral for Ron will be held Friday morning at 9 a.m. from the Philip J. Brendese Funeral Home, 133 Broad St. (Route 32), Waterford and at 10 a.m. at St. Edward the Confessor Church in Clifton Park, where the Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Interment will be in Memory's Garden. Relatives and friends are invited and may call at the funeral home Thursday from 4-8 p.m.Those who wish may make contributions in Ron's memory to the ALS Regional Center, 315 S. Manning Blvd., Albany 12208. (October 9, 2003)

Todd. G 'Wheels' Wheelock IHS 1996, age 26, of W. Main St., Ilion, passed away unexpectedly Saturday morning, October 4, 2003 at St. Elizabeth's Medical Center, following a motor vehicle accident. Todd was born December 18, 1976 in Ilion, son of Darryl and Florence (Jaquish) Wheelock. He was a graduate of Ilion High School, "Class of 96" and attended HCCC. Todd was currently employed by the House of the Good Shepherd, Utica, as a certified teaching assistant, primarily in the Physical Education Dept., he also enjoyed working part-time at Primo's Pizzeria in Ilion with is good friends, Shawn and Joey Cacciatore. Todd loved the outdoors and enjoyed the company of his many friends four-wheeling, hunting, fishing and camping. Survivors include his beloved parents, Darryl and Florence Wheelock of Ilion; his grandmothers, Doris Wheelock of Ilion, and Una Jaquish of Schuyler; and many aunts, uncles and cousins. Todd leaves a multitude of friends including his special friends, Mike Paragi, Jeff Metz and his co-worker, Eric Hubbell. He also leaves his devoted canine companion Max. Todd was predeceased by his grandparents Gerald Jaquish in 1993 and Howard Wheelock in 2001. Todd's funeral service will be held Wednesday, October 8, 2003, commencing at 12 noon at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, 102 West St., Ilion. Procession to Armory Hill Cemetery for interment will follow. Family and friends are invited to visitation Tuesday from 4-7 p.m. at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, Ilion. Those wishing to do so may consider memorial contributions in Todd's name to the House of the Good Shepherd or the American Heart Association. Donation envelopes will be available at the funeral home. (October 5, 2003)

Martha Ellen Garlock IHS Alumnus, age 92, of Ilion, died Friday, October 3, 2003, at Valley Health Services, Herkimer, where she had been a resident. She was born on August 3, 1911 in Syracuse, the daughter of James Lester and Nettie Kehoe Garlock, and graduated from Ilion High School and Utica School of Commerce. Martha was a cashier at Sperry-Rand UNIVAC for 45 years, retiring in 1976. She was a member of the Church of the Annunciation, a former eucharistic minister, and a former member of the Altar Rosary Society. Martha was a member of Court St. Bridget #265 Catholic Daughters of the Americas, Sperry Rand 25 year club, AARP, and a former member of the Ilion Council of Catholic Women. She was also a life member of the Mohawk Valley General Hospital Guild. Martha's family was one of the original settlers in the Mohawk Valley in the Town of Manheim. Survivors include her cousins, Barbara Massey of Frenchtown, NJ, Richard Garlock of Hilton Head, SC, and Peter Garlock of Batavia; special friends, Joyce Earl, Bernice Loomis, and Mary Beth Earl Hartmann. Funeral services will be held at 9:15 a.m. Tuesday, October 7, 2003 at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, 102 West St., Ilion, and 10 a.m. at the Church of the Annunciation, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Father Joseph Benintende, Pastor. Members of the Catholic Daughters will serve as Honor Guard at the mass. Interment will be in Armory Hill Cemetery, Ilion. Calling hours are Monday, October 6, 2003, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home. Court St. Bridget #265 Catholic Daughters of the Americas will conduct their wake service on Monday at 6:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Church of the Annunciation or your favorite charity. Donation envelopes are available at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home. (October 5, 2003)

Steven E. Dye IHS Alumnus, age 54, of Greensboro, NC, formerly of Ilion, passed away on Wednesday, September 17, 2003, in Greensboro. Steve was born on July 13, 1949 in Ilion, the son of the late James and Doris (Brown) Dye. He was educated in Ilion schools and was retired from the US Navy. Steven is survived by his wife, Daisy of Greensboro; two daughters, Erin and Andrea; three brothers and sisters-in-law, Ken and Colleen Dye of Cortland, Keith and Barb Dye of Ilion, and Mitchell and Carrie Dye of Sauquoit; a sister and brother-in-law, Sharon and Jon Pederson of Ilion. He also leaves five granddaughters and a grandson, as well as several nieces and nephews. Funeral services for Mr. Dye will be held on Tuesday, September 23, 2003, at 11 a.m. at the Hanes Lineberry Funeral Home, 515 N. Elm St., Greensboro, N.C. 27401. Friends may call on Monday from 7 to 10:30 p.m. Local arrangements are by the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, Ilion. (September 29, 2003)

Paul Ross Wagner IHS 1942, of Amarillo, died August 19, 2003. Mr. Wagner was born October 4, 1924 in Ilion, NY and married Elizabeth Hubrich on April 6, 1948. He graduated from the Naval Academy in 1945 with the degree of Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering and commissioned as Ensign, starting a career of 22 years in the Navy. In July of 1974 until January of 1985, he became area manager of the Amarillo Atomic Energy Commission, now the DOE. He served on the US Atomic Energy Commission from July 1974 until January 1975, then the US Energy Research and Development Administration January 1975 until October 1977 and the US Department of Energy from October 1977 until January 1985. In January of 1985, he retired from the US Civil Service as a member of the Senior Executive Service. Mr. Wagner was a devoted member of St. Luke Presbyterian Church, serving as Clerk of the the Session and a member of the choir. His wife and two daughters, Shirley A. Layne of Salem, OR and Charlotte Ross Stockdale of Bellevue, WA; a sister, Margaret Provin Jonni of Pittsburgh, PA; and four grandchildren, Matthew Wagner Layne and Alexa Elizabeth Layne, both of Portland, OR, Aaron Robert Stockdale and Adam Ross Stockdale, both of Bellevue, WA, survive him. Services are scheduled for 11:00 a.m. Saturday, August 23, 2003 at St. Luke Presbyterian Church with Dr. Pat Kennedy officiating. Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, August 27, 2003 in Cherry Valley Cemetery, Cherry Valley, NY. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors, 2800 Paramount, Amarillo, TX. The family asks that memorials be to St. Luke Presbyterian Church, 3001 Bell, 79106 or Boys Ranch, PO Box 1890, Amarillo 791740-0001. (September 29, 2003)

Dorothy Elizabeth Ploutz IHS 1952, Highland Ave., Ilion, passed away on Sunday, August 31, 2003, at St. Elizabeth's Medical Center. Dorothy was born on August 12, 1933, in Pittston, PA, the daughter of the late Jonas and Elizabeth Shellhammer Burnside Sr. She was a 1952 graduate of Ilion High School and on August 3, 1953, she was united in marriage to Edward Ploutz Jr. The couple recently celebrated their 50th anniversary with family and friends. Dorothy retired in 1995 from Fleet Bank, where she was employed as a clerk. She also worked for MDS, Momentum, and also Horton's and Lennox Bros. Pharmacy. Dorothy was a member of the Ilion Presbyterian Church, a former member of Ilion O.E.S., and was an avid Nascar fan. Dorothy is survived by her husband, Edward; two sons and daughters-in-law, David Edward and Lynn, Rock Hill, SC, and Daniel and Nancy, Hampton, VA; a daughter and son-in-law, Elizabeth Jean and Michael Cirillo, Greer, SC; a sister-in-law, Joyce Burnside, Dolgeville; and ten grandchildren. She was predeceased by a brother, Jonas Burnside Jr. Funeral services for Mrs. Ploutz will be held on Thursday, September 4, 2003, from the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, Inc., 100 Otsego St., Ilion at 11 a.m., with the Rev. Victor McKusick officiating. Friends may call Wednesday from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home. (September 29, 2003)

Herbert Charles Senn IHS 1942, age 78, died at his Yarmouthport, MA, home on Aug. 13, 2003. Herbert Senn was born in Ilion, NY, on Oct. 9, 1924. He graduated from Ilion High School in 1942. He served as a medical technician in the Army. He graduated from Atlantic Union College. Senn enrolled, as a graduate student, in the design department at Columbia University in New York City, where he met Helen Pond, his life-long scenic design collaborator and partner. Mr. Senn was a theater scene designer for over 40 years. His Broadway designs included musicals, Shakespeare, Noel Coward plays and Theatre Guild productions. He was also responsible for the scenic design of Leonard Bernstein's Mass, which opened the Kennedy Center in 1971. He joined the Cape Playhouse theatre, in Dennis, MA., in 1956 and did not retire from work until 1994. With his collaborator and partner, Helen Pond, he created more than 350 sets for the Playhouse's summer seasons. More of Mr. Senn's accomplishments are described in the Playbill article, Herbert Senn, Broadway and Cape Playhouse Set Designer, Is Dead at 78 and The Boston Globe article. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Yarmouth New Church Preservation Foundation, Inc., PO Box 237, Yarmouthport, MA 02675 or Hospice and Palliative Care of Cape Cod, 270 Communication Way, Bldg. #3, Hyannis, MA, 02601. (September 14, 2003 - modified April 3, 2024)

Betty J. Hall IHS 1941, age 79, of 1801 State Rt. 51, passed away Friday, August 22, 2003 at Bassett Healthcare, Cooperstown. Betty was born February 2, 1924 in Ilion daughter of Charles H. and Jean S (Reese) Paddock Sr. She was a graduate of Ilion High School. On July 3, 1943, she was united in marriage to Donald W. Hall in Frankfort. Betty was last employed as Communications Coordinator at the Mohawk Valley General Hospital retiring in 1983. Survivors include her husband Donald W. "Don" Hall; one son and daughter-in-law, David E. and Patricia A. Hall of Ilion; two daughters and sons-in-law, Donna J. and Gregory A. Smorol of Hilton Head, SC and Barbara E. and Michael Foster of Poland; six grandchildren, Carrie, Donald and Bryan Hall, Gregory, Stephen and Sarah Smorol; four step granddaughters, her great-grandchildren, Tyler and Peyton Dellinger, Brittany, Ryan and Julie Smorol; her sister-in-law, Hilda Paddock; and two nephews, David and Robert Paddock all of Ilion. She was predeceased by her two sons, Jefferey S. Hall who passed away in 1960 and Christopher S. Hall who passed way in 1976 and one brother, Charles Paddock Jr. in 1988. All funeral and burial services will be private. There are no public calling hours. Private interment will take place on the family lot at Oak View Cemetery, Frankfort, Memorial contributions in Betty's name may be considered to the Cedarville Ambulance Fund or your favorite charity. Donation envelopes are available at the funeral home or may be sent directly to the family. All arrangements have been entrusted to the Applegate and Day Funeral Home, 102 W. Ilion St., Ilion. (September 14, 2003)

Dr. Robert B. Ainslie IHS 1929, age 92, died Friday, Aug. 8, 2003, at the Cedar Lake Health Care Center in West Bend, Wis. He was born June 11, 1911, in Escanaba, Mich., to the late Frederick and Francis (nee Brown) Ainslie and was united in marriage to Margaret Fay on Dec. 28, 1941, in Ilion. He graduated from Ilion High School and then graduated from Colgate university in 1933. he earned his M.D. from the University of Rochester School of Medicine, graduating in 1937. He served an internship at Jersey City Medical Center from 1937 through 1938. He then did volunteer medical service in China, assigned to Presbyterian Hospital during the Sino-Japanese war from January 1939 to May 1940. He served as assistant in pathology and assistant director of blood bank at Memorial Hospital in Syracuse from July 1940 to July 1941, and then completed a fellowship in surgery at Cleveland Clinic (Ohio) from July 1941 to December 1942. He returned to China under the American Baptist Foreign Mission Society assigned to a hospital in Ipin, West China, from 1943 to 1946. On furlough from June 1946 to May 1947, he added a short course in surgery in New York. In August 1949, he returned to West China with his family and in 1949 he and his family were forced to flee to the Philippines where he served two hospitals in the Island of Panay in Central Philippines from 1949 to 1952. In the spring of 1952 he and his family returned to Cleveland, Ohio and the Cleveland Clinic to complete his residency, where he changed his practice from general surgery to otolaryngology. In 1954, after completing his residency at the Cleveland Clinic, he and his family moved to Madison, Wis. where he was a practicing otolaryngoloist at Jackson Clinic, until retiring in 1976. After retiring from the Jackson Clinic, he continued to work two days a week as a general practitioner at Madison Geriatric Clinic until 1983. In 1983, he and his wife moved to Penny Retirement Community in Florida where he served as medical director until 1995. He continued to serve as an on-call physician at Penny Retirement Community until moving back to Wisconsin in December 2002. Dr. Ainslie was a member of the State Medical Society of Wisconsin and Florida. He was elected as Fellow to American Academy of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology in 1959. He was a member of the board of directors of the Board of Homeland Ministries UCC from 1968 to 1975 and a member of the board of directors of Fairhaven Retirement and Nursing Home UCC from 1969 to 1975. He was a past member of the Rotary Club of Oregon, Wis., the Lions Club of Madison, Wis., from 1965 to 1971, the Kiwanis Club of Dodgeville, Wis., from 1976 to 1983, the Rotary Club of Green Cove Springs, Fla., from 1983 to 2002 and was listed in Strathmore's Who's Who 2000-2001. Besides serving his patients and his community, Dr. Ainslie most enjoyed being with his family and traveling. Prior to moving to Florida, he had retired to rural Dodgeville, Wis., where he built a home on 13 acres with a stream and pond. He loved sitting at the dining room table watching the birds and wildlife and reveling in nature. He is survived by his wife, Margaret; four children, Susan (Roy) Sellars of Sheboygan, Wis., John (Christine) Ainslie of Sun Prairie, Wis., Fred (Christine) Ainslie of Ironwood, Mich. and William (Victoria) Ainslie of Atlanta, Ga.; 12 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by a son, Thomas Ainslie; a sister, Ruth Swift; a niece, a nephew and a great-niece. A memorial service will be held Monday, Aug. 18, at 1 p.m. at Lake Edge United Church of Christ, 4200 Buckeye Road, Madison, Wis. Visitation will be at the church from noon until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated. Myrhum-Patten Funeral and Cremation Service, West Bend, Wis. is assisting the family. (August 22, 2003)

"Bud" Leuenberger IHS Alumnus, age 49, of 157 Otsego St., Ilion, entered into eternal rest early Tuesday morning, July 29, 2003 in Albany Medical Center. At the time of his passing he was surrounded by his beloved family. Bud was born on May 31, 1954 in Tennessee, a son of David and Dolores Richardson of Ilion. He attended Ilion schools and continued his education by attending Herkimer County Community College, where he received an associate's degree. He was a lifelong Ilion resident. Bud was of the Catholic Faith. He leaves his parents, Dolores (Dee) and David Richardson of Ilion, and his father Arnold F. Leuenberger of CA.; his grandfather, Charles Guyer of Elmira; his children, Christina and husband Shannon McMurray of Oswego, Brian, Steven and Stephanie Leuenberger of Dolgeville, Amanda Leuenberger and friend Eddie Taylor of Frankfort, and Ryan Leuenberger of Ilion; four loving sisters, Linda and Jerry LaPorte of Ilion, Mary and Tom Comins of Ilion, Cathy and Allen Krowicki of Newport, Denice and Lewis Archer of NC; and one brother, David Richardson and fiance Sue Marten of Mohawk; four grandchildren, Brenden and Jacob of Frankfort, Moargnne and Christin of Oswego; several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and many dear friends. He was predeceased by his grandmother, Daisy Firman; and two cousins, Fred Sade and Ronnie Krouse. At one time, Bud loved to hunt and fish. He loved the outdoors, and truly enjoyed dancing at family gatherings. He was a great painter of pictures. He loved people and life and lived it to the fullest. Bud had many friends and always enjoyed a good card game. The family extends their thanks to the staff on the 3rd floor at Albany Medical Center for the care they gave to Bud and also to Dr. Conti, Dr. Lin and Dr. Tish, who have all taken great care of Bud for the past 19 years. A special thanks goes out to Stan Thomas, a former NFL football player, and his brother Robert Thomas of the NFL Rams football team and their parents, who for the past four years took Bud under their wings and in their homes and showed him a life that some could only dream of. He will be missed by many. The family will receive relatives and friends at the Enea Family Funeral Home, Main Street between Ilion and Frankfort (894-8000) on Thursday, July 31, 2003 from 5 to 8 p.m. Bud's funeral will commence at 11 a.m. from the chapel of the funeral home on Friday morning, Aug. 1, where prayer will be offered. Funeral procession will follow to Oak Hill Cemetery, Herkimer, where he will be laid to rest. To add to Bud's online memorial go to www.eneafuneralhomes.com on the Internet. (August 22, 2003)

Mr. Kenneth Thomas Jackson IHS 1987, age 34, of English St., passed away Monday, July 28, 2003, after a courageous battle with ITP and APS in Sitrin Health Care Center. He was born in Ilion March 24, 1969, the son of Thomas and Joann Onofaro Jackson. He attended Ilion schools and graduated from Ilion High School with the Class of 1989. He later attended and graduated from Herkimer County Community College with an AAS degree in Accounting. Ken was employed as a payment processor for Bank of New York, Utica branch. Ken's sense of humor touched all who came in contact with him. He was a devoted Yankee fan and sports lover and he especially enjoyed people, music and his computer. Kenneth is survived by his devoted mother, Joann; one sister and brother-in-law, Dawn and Mark Robertson of Virginia Beach, Va.; his nephew, Raymond Robertson and several aunts, uncles and cousins. He was predeceased by his father, Thomas Jackson on March 30, 1977. His funeral was held Saturday morning at 9:30 in the V.J. Iocovozzi Funeral Home Inc., 203 Second Ave., Frankfort with the Rev. Gene Kipper, officiating. Interment was in Oak View Cemetery. Ken's family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the doctors, nurses, aides and staff of Faxton Hospital's CCU and Sitrin Healthcare Center for the wonderful care and compassion shown to him during his illness and passing. (August 22, 2003)

Anthony Maneen IHS 1964, age 57, of 174 West State St., passed away Wednesday, July 16, 2003, in University Hospital after a long and courageous battle with diabetes, kidney and heart disease. He was born in Ilion on June 22, 1946, the son of the late Samuel C. and Jennie Terzo Maneen. Anthony attended Ilion Schools and graduated from Ilion High School with the Class of 1964. He later attended and graduated from Albany School of Pharmacy with the Class of 1974. He was married to Jean Keddell on July 30, 1966 in Church Of The Annunciation, Ilion. Anthony served as the Supervising Pharmacist for the opening of Carl's Drugs, Herkimer, in 1976. He later was the owner and operator of Maneen's Village Pharmacy, Richfield Springs, and later of Maneen's Pharmacy, Newport, for many years. Following his retirement, he worked part time as a Pharmaceutical Consultant for local pharmacies in both the Herkimer and Oneida County areas. He had most recently worked with the Oneida County Correctional Facility in the Pharmacy. He was a Communicant of Our Lady Queen Of Apostles Church and a member of Knights of Columbus Council #518, Ilion, as a Third Degree Knight, Ilion Elks BPOE Lodge, Ilion Moose Lodge #1010 and the Mohawk Valley Pharmaceutical Association. He was a former member and Past President Ilion Little League, Jaycees, and served as an Umpire for Local Football games. He served with the Herkimer County Legislature since June of 1995 and was the Presiding Chairman since January of 2002. He was an avid Yankee fan and was very athletic while in high school and college playing football. While attending college, he played for Union College, Albany. Anthony is survived by his beloved and devoted wife, Jean Maneen; three sons, Samuel C. Maneen of Woodbridge, VA, Francis A. Maneen of Rochester and Sgt. Joseph J. Maneen, serving with the USAF in Ramstein, Germany; one brother and sister-in-law, Nicholas and Linda Maneen of Greenville, SC; one sister and brother-in-law, Mayme and Gerald Fluharty of Frankfort; his cherished granddaughter, Briana Maneen; his mother-in-law, Ruth Keddell of Ilion; in-laws, Lorita Keddell, James and Pat Keddell, Sister Margaret Keddell, Barbara Griffin, Paul and June Keddell, Peter and Deb Keddell, Mary Patelos, Kenneth and Francine Keddell; his Godchildren, Daniel Fluharty, Erick Judson, Andrea Keddell-Heintz, Lindsay Lockett and Joseph DeStafano; and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his father-in-law, Francis Keddell; and brother-in-law, Dan Keddell. His funeral will be held on Saturday, July 19, 2003, at 10:15 a.m. from the V.J. Iocovozzi Funeral Home, Inc., 203 Second Ave., Frankfort, and at 11 a.m. in Our Lady Queen Of Apostles Church where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by the Rev. John Yanas, Pastor. Interment will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Calling hours will be Friday from 3 to 8 p.m. at the V.J. Iocovozzi Funeral Home, Inc. Members of the Knights of Columbus will meet Friday evening at 7 p.m. at the funeral home for services. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Kidney, Diabetes, or Heart Association. Envelopes are available at the funeral home. (Tony and Jean were great supporters and organizers of the MegaReunion. Our deepest sympathy is extended to Jean and her family on their loss.) (July 17, 2003)

Harold D. Lyman IHS 1945, age 75, of Tucker Ave., Ilion, passed away Thursday, July 10, 2003, at home. He was born December 8, 1927 in Ilion, the son of the late Paul K. and Edna Kibbe Lyman. He was a 1945 graduate of Ilion High School, and served with the Army Air Corps during WWII. On July 23, 1955, he married the former Dolores Cook in Ilion. Harold was employed with the Ilion Board of Light Commission as an electrician and lineman. After his retirement from the Board of Light Commission, he was employed at Herkimer County Community College. Harold was also a self-employed electrician. Harold was a member of the First Baptist Church in Ilion, a past member of Ilion Kiwanis, a member of Retired Public Employers Association, I.B.E.W., the Ilion Volunteer Fire Dept. Co #1, and the Ilion Fire Dept. Benevolent Association. He is survived by his wife, Dolores; two daughters and a son-in-law, Deborah Lyman of East Greenbush, NY, Dorothy and William (Doug) Riley of Dell Valley, TX; brothers-in-law, Gary Cook of Ilion and William Eaton of Chelmsford; sisters-in-law, Selena Cook of Arizona, Evelyn Lyman of Ilion and Pompay, FL, and Irene Lyman of Ilion; his grandchildren, Jason, Jessica and Erin Kinney, all of Texas; as well as several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by two brothers, Russell and Robert Lyman; and a sister, Lois Eaton. Friends are invited to attend a memorial service on Sunday, July 13, 2003, at 1 p.m. at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St., Ilion, with Rev. Paul Smith officiating. The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. until the time of the memorial service. Friends are asked to consider memorials to the First Baptist Church, Ilion, or the American Heart Association. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. (July 13, 2003)

Jeanette M. (Hardy) Wood IHS Alumnus, age 81, formerly of 10 Remington Ave., Ilion died Monday, May 26, 2003 at Folts Home, Herkimer. She was born on March 7, 1922 in Herkimer, the daughter of Harley V. and Mary Ellen Seney Hardy and graduated from Ilion High School. On September 16, 1940, she was married to John Wood in Ilion. He died on November 6, 1997. Jeanette cared for 81 foster children in her home for 25 years. She was a former member of the Valley Baptist Church of Schuyler and was an honorarymember of the Hilltop Fire Dept. in Oppenheim, NY. Since 1973, she entertained children all over central New York State as Mrs. Santa Claus with her husband, John as Santa Claus. The Woods received many awards for their work with children including the Ilion VFW Citizenship Award in 1981. Survivors include two daughters and one son-in-law, Carol Anne Harwick, Ormond Beach, FL; Beth Ann and Dee Ackbar, Melbourne, FL; two sons, Steven Carter, Ilion, and David Carter, Herkimer; a special daughter-in-law and close friend, Jamie Carter, Ilion; two sisters, Edna Pearl Owens, Wales, and Evelyn Kay Hardy, Washington; eight grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; her brother-in-law, Robert Wood; and sister-in-law, Catherine Sanford, Ilion; several nieces, nephews, cousins and many close and dear friends including, Ellen and Paul DeCeglie, Ilion. She was predeceased by her son Marshall in 1972, four brothers, Gerald, David, Marshall and Harley Hardy; one sister, Mary Ellen Cooper. Funeral services will be held 10 a.m. Friday, May 30, 2003 at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, 102 West St., Ilion with Pastor Jack Cougar, officiating. Interment will be in Armory Hill Cemetery, Ilion. Calling hours are Thursday 5 to 8 p.m. at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Ilion Ambulance Fund or Folts Home Foundation. Donation envelopes are available at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, Ilion. (July 13, 2003)

Diane (Luke) Getman IHS 1951 - After a long and courageous battle, Diane Luke Getman found peace at Middlesex Hospice while surrounded by her loving and devoted family on Sunday, May 25, 2003. Diane was born on May 20, 1932 in Troy, NY, the daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Robert A. Luke. She was raised in Ilion, NY and graduated from the College of St. Rose in Albany with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing. She used her considerable nursing skills in Pediatrics, Long Term Care and School Nursing. Diane married Capt. Robert Getman in 1956 and began a wonderful journey of love as a Wife, Mother and Grandmother. They settled in Old Lyme in 1975. She was active in the community as a member of the Board of Directors of Old Lyme Visiting Nurse Association and Old Lyme Commission on Aging. Diane was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Duck River Garden Club and the Coast Guard Officers Spouses Association. She was very active in her Church, Christ the King, as a member of the Pastoral Council, Extraordinary Minister of the Eucharist, and Chairman of the Altar Society. She was a very well known and popular parishioner. In addition to her best friend and husband, she leaves her daughter, Ashley Bergeron and her husband Donald of Niantic, CT; sons, Scott and his wife Anita of Clinton, CT, Shawn and his wife Mary of Collinsville, CT, Christopher of Greenwich, CT; daughter, Kelly Danahy and her husband Robert of Sewell, CT; and eight grandchildren, Kate, Megan, Kristian, Trevor, Emily, Erin, Brian and Josh. Diane also leaves her brother, Robert Luke; and many special nieces and nephews. Diane was predeceased by her first son, Robert T. II. Diane also leaves a host of friends throughout the country who will always remember her for her warm, engaging, outgoing and enthusiastic personality who could light up a room with her very presence. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, May 28, 2003 at 11 a.m. in Christ the King Church, Old Lyme. Interment will follow in Duck River Cemetery, Old Lyme. Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, May 27, 2003 from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m. in the Fulton-Theroux Funeral Home, 13 Beckwith Ln., Old Lyme, 06371. In lieu of flowers, friends may make donations to Christ the King Parish Building Fund, P.O. Box 443, Old Lyme, CT 06371, or Old Lyme Visiting Nurse Association, P.O. Box 56, Old Lyme, CT 06371. (May 28, 2003)

Archibald 'Archie' McGowan Ilion Alumnus age 79, a lifelong Ilion resident, entered into eternal rest on Tuesday morning, May 20, 2003, in St. Luke's Memorial Hospital, New Hartford, after a long illness. Mr. McGowan was born on March 20, 1924 in Ilion, a son of the late Archibald Kent and Edna (Brand) McGowan. He was raised and educated in Ilion, and was a graduate of Syracuse University. He was married to the former Juanita (Marie) Hopper in 1948. Mr. McGowan served his country for 30 years with the United States Army. He leaves his wife, Marie, of Ilion; two daughters, Kathy Crewell and husband Ronald of Mohawk, and Shelley Day and husband Christopher of Ilion; three sisters, Janet Irish and husband Hugh of Idaho, Jean Ford and husband Dexter of Saratoga, and Barbara Sweeney of Ilion; five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Mr. McGowan's funeral service will be privately held at the convenience of the family, in Frankfort Hill Cemetery. Kindly consider contributions in honor of Archie to Ilion Ambulance. Envelopes are available at the Enea Family Funeral Home, Main Street between Ilion and Frankfort, (894-8000), which is handling funeral arrangements. The family offers their gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff at St. Luke's Memorial Hospital for their compassion shown, especially mentioning the coronary care unit. (May 28, 2003)

John S. Hodom IHS 1958 formerly of Ilion, N.Y., and recently of Melbourne, Fla., passed away on Thursday, May 15, 2003, at Holmes Regional Medical Center in Melbourne, Fla. He was born July 11, 1940, in Ilion, the son of John C. and Anne Dedla Hodom. He graduated from Ilion High School in 1958. John married Sophie J. Haponski, formerly of Little Falls, on May 8, 1976. Besides his loving wife, he leaves three brothers and their wives, Michael C. and Barbara Hodom, of Delmar, N.Y., Melvin and Joan Hodom of Utica and Ronald J. Hodom of Ilion; many nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, cousins and friends. Funeral services will be held Thursday, May 22, at Brownlie-Maxwell Funeral Home, 1010 E. Palmetto Ave., Melbourne, Florida. (May 28, 2003)

Karen A. (McPherson) Helmer Ilion Alumnus age 48, a longtime resident of 40 Michigan St., Mohawk, passed away unexpectedly Monday morning, May 12, 2003, at Ellis Hospital, Schenectady. Karen was born Sept. 26, 1954, in Ilion, daughter of Dale M. and Evelyn (Price) McPherson. She attended Ilion schools and was a graduate of Herkimer County BOCES Licensed Practical Nurse Program. Karen was proud to serve the community as a dedicated and compassionate nurse for many years. On June 3, 1972, she was united in marriage to James R. "Bob" Helmer Jr. at the Church of the Annunciation, Ilion, a blessed union of over 30 years. Karen was employed as a nurse at Valley Health Services, Herkimer, and also provided excellent and personal day care to many children. A dedicated and devoted homemaker, Karen took great pride in the care of her family. She loved to cook, bake and enjoyed music. Karen had friends everywhere, and loved to be at camp at Pine Lake with family and friends. Camp was her "home away from home." Survivors include her beloved husband, James "Bob" Helmer at home; one son and daughter-in-law, Scott and Andrea Helmer of New York Mills; one daughter, Jamie Helmer and her fiancé Kirk Hilts, both of Mohawk; two cherished grandchildren, Alexander Helmer and Madeline Ann Helmer; her father and stepmother, Dale M. and Delores McPherson of Melbourne, Fla.; her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Jim and Fern Helmer of Mohawk; her brothers, sisters and their spouses, Gary and Diane McPherson of Maine, Bonnie DeRosa, Karen's sister and best friend and Bonnie's husband John of Mohawk, Laurie McPherson of South Carolina, Mary Rider and her husband Ralph of Maine, Tina Hicks and her husband Duane of Maine, Vern and Cindy McPherson of Georgia and Sean McPherson of Maine. She also leaves her brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law; aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. Karen was predeceased by her mother, Evelyn McPherson, in August of 1993. Karen's funeral services will be held Thursday, May 15, commencing at 10 a.m. at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, 102 West St., Ilion, with Pastor Jack Cogar officiating. Procession to Mohawk Cemetery for interment will follow the funeral service. Family and friends are invited to visitation Wednesday from 5-8 p.m. at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, Ilion. Floral offerings in Karen's memory or memorials to her family may be considered. Envelopes are available at the funeral home. (May 28, 2003)

Wesley 'Wes' Donaldson IHS 1941 age 79, a longtime Utican who relocated to Richmond, VA, in order to be closer to his family, passed away on Sunday, April 27, 2003, in Richmond. Born in Eaton, NY on May 22, 1923, Wesley was the son of the late Arthur and Minnie Donaldson.Raised and educated in Ilion, he was a graduate of Ilion High School in 1941. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps, where he was a member of a music unit that entertained fellow servicemen. On December 4, 1948, he was joined in marriage with the former Antoinette D'Angelo with whom he shared a union of 41 years prior to her passing on October 26, 1990. Throughout the years of their marriage, Wes and Antoinette enjoyed a closeness founded upon their mutual love and support. At one time, Mr. Donaldson held a position as an underwriter with Utica Mutual; he later worked for the City of Utica as a housing inspector. He was then employed with UNIVAC for several years. In addition, Wes was a gifted musician who used his special abilities to engage in various other professional endeavors. From 1960- 2000, he served as organist at St. Anthony of Padua Church. He also offered piano instruction to students of all ages for a period of time from 1970-85. In addition, he performed with several local bands over the course of his career as a musician. Wes was not only a talented player, but he had an extensive knowledge of music, a keen understanding of musical concepts, a natural gift for appreciating and interpreting music in all its forms and varieties, and the innate ability to transpose musical notation with great facility, a skill which proved to be of great benefit and value both to himself and to his associates. Wes was a longtime and avid follower of the NY Yankees. Locally, he was more than just a baseball fan, having served for several years as a team manager for the Pony Colt League. For many years, he entertained the residents of local nursing homes, notably the Masonic Home. Throughout his life, he was an animal lover and greatly enjoyed pets. In regard to his involvement in organizational activities, Wes was a member of the Knights of St. John, Commandery #385 and a communicant of St. Anthony of Padua Church. Mr. Donaldson is survived by two sons and daughters-in-law, Daniel and Patti Donaldson of Florida, and Anthony and Leah Donaldson of Virginia; his grandchildren, Nicole and Daniel Rios, Anthony Donaldson, Jr., Danny, Jr., and Natalie Donaldson, David Donaldson, Dana Marie Donaldson, and Michael A. Donaldson; and four great-grandchildren, Jakob, Joseph, Joshua, and Nicholas. He also leaves his extended family who were very dear and important to him; Father Anthony LaFache, Deacon Bill Dischiavo, Nick and Rosemary Pezzulo, and the members of the choir at St. Anthony of Padua Church. Visitation will be held on Thursday (today) from 5 to 8 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc, 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Please omit floral offerings. For those wishing to do so, please consider donations in Wes' memory to the St. Anthony of Padua Renovation Fund; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. The Knights of St. John will assemble this evening at 7:30 at the funeral home for ritualistic services. Mr. Donaldson's funeral will commence on Friday at 12:00 noon from the funeral home and at 1:00 at St. Anthony of Padua Church, where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Interment will take place in St. Agnes Cemetery at the convenience of the family. (May 28, 2003)

Mrs. Ann C. (Garnsey) Noffer IHS Alumnus, age 81, of 611 Second Ave., Frankfort, passed away Friday evening, April 25, 2003, at the Valley Health Services in Herkimer. She was born Aug. 27, 1921, in Utica, the daughter of the late Silas and Anna (Murphy) Garnsey, and began her education in Utica schools. She later went on to schools in Ilion. She had lived the majority of her life in the Ilion-Frankfort areas. On Aug. 27, 1939, Ann joined in marriage with Leslie F. Noffer at Annunciation Church in Ilion. Throughout their 64-year union the couple enjoyed their devotion to one another and compatibility. They truly enjoyed each other's company and their love toward their family was unconditional. Ann was a member of the Church of Annunciation in Ilion, along with the Catholic Daughters. Ann was committed to the well being and happiness of her loved ones. She derived great joy from her grandchildren. In her leisure time she enjoyed knitting, along with quilting. She is survived by her beloved husband, Leslie; three sons, Leslie J. Noffer of New York Mills, Lawrence W. Noffer of Fort Johnson and Robert M. Noffer of Whitesboro; one daughter and son-in-law, Julie LaFayette and husband George of Herkimer; five grandchildren, Thomas Noffer of New York Mills, Scott Noffer of Utica, Christopher Noffer of Ballston Spa, Michael LaFayette of Buffalo and Jason LaFayette of Albany; two brothers, Silas Garnsey of Lynchburg, Va. and James Garnsey and wife Dorothy of Ilion; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. The family extends its gratitude to the nurses and staff of the Valley Health Services in Herkimer for their outstanding care and their friendly, courteous and loving attention. Their ability to create a "home away from home" for Ann was a source of comfort and strength. Family and friends are invited to attend visitation Monday evening, April 28 (tonight) from 4-8 p.m. at the Enea Family Funeral Home, Main Street between Ilion and Frankfort (894-8000). By family request, please omit floral offerings. Those wishing to do so may consider memorial donations in Ann's honor to the Valley Health Services Development Fund. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. The funeral will begin Tuesday morning, April 29, at 9:15 a.m. at the chapel of the funeral home, where prayer will be offered. Procession will follow to the Church of Annunciation, Ilion, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by the Rev. Joseph Benintende, pastor, at 10 a.m. Interment will take place at Green Lawn Cemetery in New Hartford. Ann's online memorial may be added to by visiting the Enea Family Funeral Home Web site. (April 30, 2003)

Fred C. Kaune IHS Alumnus, age 87, of Ilion, passed away Monday, April 21, 2003, at Little Falls Hospital. He was born Dec. 23, 1915, in Ilion, the son of the late Frederick C. and Leona Butler Kaune. He was educated in the Ilion school system and served with the U.S. Army during World War II and Korea, retiring with the rank of Sgt. Major in April 1962. He then was employed as an inspector with the Army Corps of Engineers, retiring several years ago. On April 14, 1951, he was united in marriage with the former Margaret Sanders; she passed away in 1996. Mr. Kaune was a member of St. Augustine's Church in Ilion and the Men's Club of the church. He is survived by a son and daughter-in-law, Lt. Col. Charles and Lynn Kaune, currently stationed in Kuwait; a daughter and son-in-law, Merryand her husband David Mungo of Superior, Colo.; a sister and brother-in-law, Mary and Kenneth Seymour of Ilion; a grandson, David Charles Mungo of Superior, Colo.; also several nieces and nephews. A memorial Mass was held on Friday, April 25, 2003, at 11 a.m. at St. Augustine's Church, with the Rev. Heather Benson officiating. In keeping with Mr. Kaune's wishes, there are no calling hours. Friends are asked to consider memorials to St. Augustine's Church or the Mohawk Valley Nursing Home in Fred's memory. Arrangements are with the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St., Ilion. (April 30, 2003)

Douglas E. Bullis IHS Alumnus, age 76, of Otsego St., passed away Thursday, April 17, 2003, at the Little Falls Hospital.He was born May 22, 1926, in Rockland, the son of the late Floyd A. and Mildred Biffar Bullis. He was educated in the Ilion School system and served in the U.S. Army during World War II in the Asiatic Pacific Theater and then served with the Air Force Reserve until 1952. On Nov. 8, 1947, he married the former Joyce Carroll in Ilion. She passed away in 1989. Mr. Bullis was employed as an assistant design engineer with Remington Arms in Ilion, retiring in 1984. Doug was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Ilion, a former member of the board of trustees at the Ilion Public Library and also a former member of the Ilion Masonic Lodge 591 F&AM. He was also a private pilot and enjoyed photography, art and was an avid jazz fan. Mr. Bullis is survived by three sons and two daughters-in-law, John and his wife Janet Tamurino of Fairfield, Gene Bullis of Herkimer and Peter and his wife Maureen of Utica; a daughter and son-in-law, Judith and Mark Burgeson of Fairport; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Ray and Lori Bullis of Seneca Falls and Richard and Grace Bullis of Rochester; a sister and brother-in-law, Marjorie and her husband Dr. Roger Bergeron of Manchester, N.H.; seven grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services for Mr. Bullis will be held Monday, April 21, at 7 p.m. from the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St., Ilion, with the Rev. Victor McKusic, officiating. Friends may call Monday, April 21, from 3-7 p.m. at the funeral home. Friends are asked to consider memorials to the Ilion Public Library in Doug's memory. (April 19, 2003)

Lee S. Couchman IHS 1939, age 82, of Canadarago Street, entered into eternal rest Tuesday morning, April 15, 2003, in Bassett Healthcare, Cooperstown. He was born March 6, 1921, in Ilion, son of the late Kenneth Lester and Marie Keno Couchman. Lee was raised in Ilion and graduated from Ilion High School "Class of 1939." It was in Ilion that he met Margaret "Peggy" West. They were married May 5, 1946, in South Columbia by Pastor Ridgeway. Mr. and Mrs. Couchman have resided in Richfield Springs since 1946. An honorably discharged World War II veteran, he was a first lieutenant serving with the U.S. Army Air Corps 347th Fighter Squadron, the 350th Group and the 12th Air Force in the Mediterranean Theater, Rome-Arno and the Northern Apennines. Mr. Couchman had worked for Remington Rand and for 35 years with the Library Bureau in Herkimer. He retired in 1985. Lee had a strong belief in God and led a devoted Christian life. His friends knew him as a doer and not an observer. His first love was flying and he was a very capable pilot. He delighted in boating and scuba diving. After his retirement from the Library Bureau, he spent much time repairing swimming pools, using his scuba gear. He was an outdoorsman; going hiking, exploring caves and photography were his relaxation. He was interested in anything scientific or mechanical, and relished his elaborate bottle collection. Lee enjoyed his life, his friends and his family. He will be truly missed. Surviving are his wife of 56 years, Peggy; a daughter, Cynthia L. and her husband Ronald L. Hoffman of Earlville; two sons and their wives, Jon "Kit" and Diana Couchman of Hopkinsville, Ky., and Kerry L. and Bonnie Couchman of Pittsfield, Mass.; three brothers and their wives, Edward and Patricia Couchman of Millers Mills, Harry and Emily Couchman of Ilion, Carl and Betty Couchman of Mohawk; five grandchildren, the Rev. Kenneth Couchman and Brendan Couchman, both of Kentucky, Steffani Webb of Richfield Springs and Steven and Alethea Couchman of Pittsfield, Mass.; two great-granddaughters, Mirissa Llewellyn and Jennifer Webb; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. A sister, Mary Louise Becker, preceded him in death. It was Mr. Couchman's request that all services be private and at the family's convenience. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Richfield Springs Volunteer Fire Department. Funeral arrangements are with J. Seaton McGrath Funeral Home, Richfield Springs. (April 18, 2003)

Albert J. Morrisette IHS Alumnus, age 91, of Sixth Avenue, entered into eternal rest Saturday afternoon, April 5, 2003, in Mohawk Valley Nursing Home. He was born Nov. 27, 1911, in Newport, son of the late Felix and Doris (Burnett) Morrisette. A lifelong Ilion resident, he was education in Ilion schools. On Oct. 18, 1941, he married Evelyn Adams in Ilion. A loving union of 55 years, she preceded him in death April 8, 1997. During the 1930s he served as a member of the Civilian Conservation Corps and for 35 years Mr. Morrisette was employed by the Remington Arms Co., retiring in 1975. He had a strong belief in God and was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, Ilion. He was a member of the Remington Arms 25 Year Club. Albert loved the outdoors and nature. As a young man, much of his leisure time was spent gardening, fishing, camping and enjoying the birds and animals. He also enjoyed reading, drawing and painting. He will be greatly missed by many, especially his family. Surviving are a daughter, Nancy and her husband Albert Young of Ilion; one son, Gary and his wife Diane Morrisette of Oswego; four grandchildren, Michael and Julie Morrisette, Lori and her husband Jeff Miazga and Kimberly Young and her fianc/ Matthew Slaughter; two great-grandchildren, Jenifer and Tyler Miazga; one sister, Mae Hyrup of Saranac; several nieces, nephews and his cat Meow, Meow, Mia. Besides his parents and wife Evelyn, he was predeceased by 14 siblings. Funeral service will take place Wednesday at 11 a.m. in Fenner Funeral Home Inc., 115 Court St., Herkimer. The Rev. Victor McKusick, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Ilion, will officiate. Mr. Morrisette will be laid to rest in Armory Hill Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Herkimer County Humane Society or the Mohawk Valley Nursing Home Scholarship Fund. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. The family would like to extend a special thank you to all of Albert's girls on the second floor of Mohawk Valley Nursing Home. Your love and caring has meant to much to all his family. "We are so glad that Dad was able to stay in Ilion where he belonged." (April 10, 2003)

Steven G. Masur IHS Alumnus, age 47, of Los Angeles, CA, formerly of Ilion, passed away Friday March 28, 2003 in the Queen of Angels Hospital, Los Angeles. He was born in Ilion on August 22, 1955, the son of George and Irene McKim Masur and attended school there. Steven was employed as an auto mechanic and was a member of the Metropolitan Community Church in Los Angeles. Steven is survived by his mother of Ilion, a sister and brother-in-law, Corliss (Corky) and Bernard Lulow of Ilion, a brother and sister-in-law Michael and Cheryl of Herkimer and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his father in 1967. Funeral services for Steven will be held Friday April 4, 2003 at 9 AM from the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St, Ilion with Pastor Jack Cogar officiating. Interment will be in the Armory Hill Cemetery, Ilion. Friends may call at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home from 5-7 PM Thursday. (April 3, 2003)

Stephen Lasky IHS Alumnus, age 55, of E. Clark St., passed away Friday, March 7, 2003. He was born on July 16, 1947, in Little Falls, the son of Benedict and Annie Boon Lasky. Steve was a graduate of Ilion High School and served with the Army in Vietnam. He attended the Ilion United Methodist Church. Steve is survived by his mother, Annie, of Ilion; a brother, Michael, of Bolivia; and several aunts, uncles and cousins. Memorial services will be conducted from the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, Inc., 100 Otsego St., Ilion, at a later date. In keeping with Steve's wishes, his body was donated to science. Friends are asked to consider memorials to Hospice Care, Inc., 4277 Middle Settlement Rd., New Hartford, NY 13413 or their own favorite charity. (March 10, 2003)

Doris M. (Clark) Barker IHS Alumnus, age 84, a longtime resident of 48 Walnut St., Mohawk, passed away Saturday, March 1, 2003, at Little Falls Hospital. Doris was born Sept. 7, 1918, in Ilion, daughter of George and Irene (Wallace) Clark. She attended Ilion schools. On July 30, 1937, she was united in marriage to Gordon A. Barker in Ilion, a blessed union of almost 52 years. Mr. Barker passed away Feb. 15, 1989. Primarily a homemaker, Doris was employed as a waitress at various valley restaurants for many years, last working at the Valley Tavern in Mohawk. She was a member of the Mohawk American Legion Auxiliary for over 40 years, a past member of the Herkimer County Firemen's Association and Ilion Moose Lodge 1010. Doris loved to crochet and donate her work to the church. She was a member of the Grace Episcopal Church, Mohawk, at one time serving as a vestry person and conductress of the altar guild. Survivors include her daughter, Joan Grower of Ilion; four grandchildren, Jaime Grower of Collins, N.Y., Niall Grower and his wife Audrey of Ilion, Colin Grower and his wife Monique of Ilion and Melody Watson of Texas; seven great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, many friends, neighbors, a special friend, Eva Chambers of Ilion; her beloved dog "Cass." Doris was predeceased by her son, Wayne in 1943. Mrs. Barker's funeral Mass will be held Wednesday, March 5, commencing at 10 a.m. at the Grace Episcopal Church, Mohawk with Father Robert Witt, rector, officiating. Interment will take place later this spring in Butternut Valley Cemetery, Burlington Flats, at a date and time to be announced. In lieu of floral offerings, please consider memorial contributions in Doris' name to the Grace Episcopal Church, Mohawk. Donation envelopes will be available at the funeral home and church. (March 10, 2003)

Arthur F. 'Frenchie' Moreau IHS Alumnus, age 66, of 147 S. Third Ave., Ilion, went home to be with the Lord Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2003, with his loved ones at his side. Art was born Oct. 24, 1936, in Ilion, son of Azarius and Valerie (Pellerin) Moreau. He attended Ilion schools. Art was a proud veteran, serving with the U.S. Army during the Korean War. On Oct. 10, 1966, he was united in marriage to Cecelia V. "Cissy" Dodge at the Ilion United Methodist Church, a blessed union of over 36 years. Frenchie was last employed by the Remington Arms Co. as a program gauge inspector. Prior to that he was employed by Sperry Rand/Univac in Ilion and Utica for approximately 21 years. He attended the Little Falls Baptist Church and at one time held memberships in the American Legion and the Ilion Moose Lodge. Frenchie was a familiar face at the local sportingevents, having served as a football and baseball official for 29 years. A dedicated husband, father and grandfather, Frenchie loved to spend time with his beloved family. Survivors include his loving and devoted wife, Cissy, at home; two sons and daughters-in-law, Mark and Lisa Moreau of Georgia, Douglas "Doug" and Jennifer Moreau of Charlotte, N.C.; three daughters and sons-in-law, Robin and Mark Garaguso of Florida, Kimberly "Kim" Moreau of Charlotte, N.C., and Jacqueline "Jackie" and David Giruzzi of Ilion; nine cherished grandchildren, Crystal Mitchell and her husband Zach, Kyle Davis, Mark Garaguso, Theresa Garaguso, Alexander and Benjamin Moreau, Allison Moreau, Samantha, Austin and Cameron Giruzzi; one great-grandson, Elijah "Eli" Moreau; three brothers and one sister-in-law, Alfred "Al" Moreau of Ilion, John Moreau of Connecticut and Henry "Hank" Moreau and his wife, Beverly "Bev" of Ilion. Frenchie also leaves his brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents, brothers Joseph, Emil, Charles, Edward and Russell Moreau and his sister, Rose Luenberger. A memorial service will be held Sunday, March 2, commencing at 2 p.m. at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, 102 West St., Ilion, with the Rev. Donald L. Dixon, pastor of the Little Falls Baptist Church, officiating. Family and friends are invited to visitation Sunday from 1-2 p.m. at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, Ilion, prior to the memorial service. Cemetery services with full military honors will take place this spring in Armory Hill Cemetery at a date and time to be announced. In lieu of floral offerings, please consider memorial contributions in Art's name to the Little Falls Baptist Church Memorial Fund. Donation envelopes are available at the funeral home. (March 3, 2003)

Frances Maude (Paddock) Sitts IHS Alumnus, age 94, of the Folts Home, Herkimer, formerly of Mohawk, passed away Sunday, Feb. 23, 2003. She was born Jan. 11, 1909, in Frankfort, the daughter of the late William and Blanche Raute Paddock. Mrs. Sitts attended Ilion schools and on Feb. 3, 1934, she was united in marriage with Ernest Sitts. He passed away Jan. 28, 1982. She was employed as a timekeeper with Remington Rand in Ilion, retiring several years ago. Mrs. Sitts was a member of the Mohawk Reformed Church and was a past matron and member of the Mohawk Eastern Star Chapter. Mrs. Sitts is survived by her daughter, Marilyn Smith of Mohawk and her grandson, Justin and his wife Stacy of Raleigh, N.C. Funeral services will be Tuesday, Feb. 25, at 2 p.m. at the Folts Home Chapel, Herkimer. The Rev. David Ortell, chaplain, will officiate. Visitation will be held from noon-2 p.m. at the chapel. Arrangements are with the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St., Ilion. Friends are asked to consider memorials to the Folts Home, Herkimer. (March 3, 2003)

Michele Marie Gargash IHS 1977, age 43, of Salt Lake City, Utah, formerly of the Utica area, passed away February 14, 2003 in Utah. Michele was born March 30, 1959 in Utica, the daughter of John and Josephine Yule Gargash. She was raised and educated in Ilion schools, was a graduate of Herkimer County Community College and while there was a member of Phi Beta Kappa. She received her Bachelor's Degree from the SUNY Institute of Technology. In Utah, Michele was a Systems Analyst for Siemens Health Services. While employed by Siemens, she was also an instructor for a number of medical groups in computer software. She was a member of St. Vincent's Church, Salt Lake City. An accomplished musician, Michele was taught the clarinet and was self-taught in the saxophone, piano and guitar. In her early years, she was a member of the B Sharp Club, the Mohawk Valley Community College Orchestra, and the United States Collegiate Band, where in 1977 she toured Europe with Perdue University. While living in Syracuse, she played with many orchestras in a variety of musicals. Michele was also a technology enthusiast and enjoyed experimenting with new State-of-the-Art technologies. Michele is survived by her parents; one sister and brother-in-law, Lisa and Dr. Paul Perreault, of Burnt Hills, NY; one brother, John M. Gargash, of San Diego, CA; two nephews and a niece, Jonathan, Michael and Nicole Perreault; her paternal grandmother, Helen Gargash, of New York Mills; and aunts, uncles and cousins. Michele's funeral will be held Monday, February 24, 2003 at 10:00 from the Heintz Funeral Home, 1517 Whitesboro St. and at 10:30 from Our Lady of the Rosary Church, New Hartford, where her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Calling hours at the funeral home will be held Sunday afternoon from 2-5. Her burial will take place in Calvary Cemetery, Utica. Donations in Michele's memory would be appreciated to the American Cancer Society. (February 22, 2003)

Edwin G. Button IHS Alumnus, age 86, of 14 Pleasant Ave., Ilion, passed away Monday, February 17, 2003, at home. Mr. Button was born August 8, 1916, in Ilion, the son of the late William E. and Margaret Owens Button. Mr. Button was a graduate of the Ilion Central School System and served with the U.S. Army and U.S. Navy during WW II in Europe and the Pacific. He was married to the former Jerolene Higby. She passed away in 1956. He then married Grace Laymon in 1966. She passed away in 2000. Mr. Button was employed as an electrician with the IBEW of Utica and Syracuse Local 1249 and then worked in the Maintenance Dept. at the Frankfort School System, retiring in 1984. He was also a licensed plumber in the Village of Ilion. Ed was a member of the Ilion Post 502 VFW, the McDonald's and the Ilion Marina "Over the Hill Group". Ed is survived by son and daughter-in-law, Edwin, Jr., and Marge Button, of Shortsville, NY; a brother and sister-in-law, Bernard and Barbara Button, of San Antonio, TX; four grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. In keeping with Ed's wishes, a private graveside service will be held at the convenience of the family in the spring. There are no calling hours. Arrangements are with the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St., Ilion. (February 22, 2003)

Joyce Pierce Sanders, Valedictorian IHS 1933, age 86, of London Towers, Ilion, a former employee of the Ilion Public Library, died February 6, 2003 at Faxton Hospital. She was born November 1, 1916 in Ilion, the daughter of Byron Kingsley and Bessie Vincent Pierce. She was valedictorian of the Class of 1933 at Ilion High School and attended Skidmore College. In 1951, she was married to Harold Sanders, who died in 1963. Joyce was a life member of St. Augustine's Episcopal Church, Ilion, where she served on the Altar Guild. She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star and the Herkimer County Humane Society. She leaves her cousins, Elaine Griswold of New Hartford, Constance Christiana of Utica, and Frank Steber, Watkins Glen. She also leaves many beloved friends, especially William and Elaine Billings, who "adopted" Joyce as a member of their family after their cat, "Freckles," had done so first; Harold and Joyce Casey of Ilion; her friend since high school, Helen Merena of Herkimer, and Mark and Audrey Price of Rochester. The family also thanks the aides who lovingly cared for Joyce at home as well as staff of the Faxton Critical Care Unit and Mohawk Valley Nursing Home. A Memorial Service to celebrate Joyce's life will be at 2 p.m. Sunday, February 9 at St. Augustine's Episcopal Church, Ilion, with interment in Armory Hill Cemetery, Ilion. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to St. Augustine's Church, the Herkimer County Humane Society or the Ilion Ambulance Fund. Arrangements by Enea Family Funeral Home. (February 8, 2003)

Phyllis J. (Jennott) Kress IHS Alumnus, age 67, a lifelong Frankfort resident, passed away Friday morning, Jan. 24, 2003, in Texas. She was born Jan. 8, 1936, in Frankfort, daughter of the late Charles and Mary (Capuano) Jennott and was educated in Ilion schools. She lived the majority of her life in the Frankfort area. Phyllis had worked with Chicago Pneumatic for many years and retired at the age of 62. She had dedicated many hours on a part-time basis for the district attorney's office in Herkimer since 1998. She was a communicant of Our Lady Queen of Apostles Church in Frankfort and was a member of the St. Francis Ladies along with the Holy Rosary Society of the church. Phyllis loved to garden and exercise through walking. She is survived by her sister, Charlene Gaffney of Carrollton, Texas; a niece, Kellie Gaffney; a nephew, Michael Gaffney and wife Kim; a great-nephew, Hunter William Gaffney and a great-niece, Kendall Marie Gaffney, all of Texas; several cousins and three wonderful and dear friends to Phyllis: Vita Kissner of Florida, Theresa Tangorra of Herkimer and Phyllis Fraccola of Frankfort. Phyllis was predeceased by her brother-in-law, William Gaffney and an aunt, Juliette Branck. In keeping with Phyllis' wishes there are no public calling hours and cremation has taken place. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend her memorial Mass which will be held later this spring at a time to be announced at Our Lady Queen of Apostles Church in Frankfort with the Rev. John Yanas, pastor, officiating. Interment will take place in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Those wishing are asked to consider donations in memory of Phyllis to the All Souls Chapel Fund, Frankfort, or to St. Paul Hospice, 8150 Brookriver Drive No. 113, Dallas, Texas 75247. Envelopes will be available at the Mass or may be obtained from the Enea Family Funeral Home (894-8000). Phyllis prearranged all of her wishes with the Enea Family Funeral Home, Main Street between Frankfort and Ilion. Her family would like to thank Vita Kissner, Phyllis Fraccola and Theresa Tangorra, all of whom reside in the Mohawk Valley, and Barbara Green and Jan Twitty of Plano, Texas, along with her co-workers at the Herkimer County district attorney's office and former Chicago Pneumatic co-workers, for the many cards and calls and prayers during this difficult time. (February 8, 2003)

Gerald H. 'Squirrely' Sterling IHS Alumnus, age 84, a longtime resident of Spinnerville Gulf Road, Ilion, passed away unexpectedly Thursday, Jan. 16, 2003. Gerald was born June 17, 1918, in Ilion, son of Lee and Lillian (Snyder) Sterling. He attended Ilion schools. Gerald was a proud veteran serving his country with the U.S. Army Air Corps 548th Fighter Squadron during World War II. He was awarded the following decorations and citations in recognition of his service. The American Service Medal, Asiatic Pacific Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal and the World War II Victory Medal. On May 12, 1943, he was united in marriage to Elizabeth Belle Binney in the town of Columbia, a blessed union of almost 60 years. Gerald was a dedicated employee of the village of Ilion Water Commission, retiring in 1985 after 22 years of service. At one time he worked with Jack Gird at Girds Spray and was owner/operator of Madison Fertilizer Co. At one time Gerald was fire warden in his district. More recently he was employed by Green Thumb from 1986 to 2000, and worked at Lock 19 in Schuyler. He was a life member and past commander of the Ilion-Frankfort Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 502, the Ilion American Legion Post 920, Herkimer Polish Club and AARP. Gerald loved life's simple pleasures. He enjoyed feeding wild birds and animals and he had a deep appreciation for nature and the outdoors. Gerald had a special fondness for his cockatiel "George." He was fondly called the unofficial "Mayor" of South Ilion. His life was deeply rooted and centered around his beloved large family. Survivors include his beloved wife, Elizabeth; four daughters and two sons-in-law, Catherine "Caty" Trask and her husband Robert of Cedarville; Lillian "Penny" Nelon and her husband Claude of West Virginia, Christine "Chris" Champion of Florida and Geraldine "Cheeko" Marquissee and her companion David "Big D" Pettengill, both of South Ilion; six sons and daughters-in-law, Gerald "Jerry" and Sherry Sterling of Arizona, Lee H. "Peanut" and Betty Sterling of Ilion, Donald "Donny" and Patti Sterling of South Ilion, Ron and Debbie Sterling of South Ilion, Arthur "Ozzie" and Mary Sterling of South Ilion and Jack and Carol Sterling of Ilion; one sister, Leta Sterling of Ilion; 21 grandchildren, several great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews and cousins; and his special friends, Eileen and George Farley. He was predeceased by his daughter, Dorothy "Doty" Hotaling and his three sisters, Arlene Brebeck, Dorothy Walby and Ruth Bradle. Gerald's funeral service will be held Sunday commencing at 3:30 p.m. at the Applegate and Day Funeral Home, 102 West St., Ilion, with the Rev. Hans Drews, pastor of the North Columbia United Methodist Church, officiating. Family and friends are invited to visitation Sunday from 2-3:30 p.m. prior to the funeral service at the Applegate and Day Funeral Home, Ilion. The Ilion-Frankfort VFW service will commence at 2:15 p.m. Sunday and the Ilion American Legion memorial service will commence at 2:30 p.m., both at the funeral home. Interment will take place on the Sterling lot in North Columbia Cemetery with full military honors. Memorial contributions in Gerald's name may be considered to the American Heart Association. Donation envelopes are available at the funeral home. (January 17, 2003)

John Duane Currier IHS Alumnus, was born Sept. 6, 1934, in Ilion, and deceased on Jan. 14, 2003, at M.I. Bassett Hospital, Cooperstown, following a long struggle with emphysema. The son of Winston Maxime Currier and Hazel Violet Steele, John attended West Hill Elementary School and Ilion High School, where he was noted for his creative, scientific mind and aptitude for mechanics. Chemistry and physics were John's favorite school subjects. As a boy, John enjoyed scouting and worked his way through cub scouts and boy scouts to the Eagle rank. John was always busy with projects. At the age of 8, he built his own racing car. His sisters treasured a dollhouse that he made for them, complete with furniture and electric lights. John constructed his own radio set and ran a radio repair shop for friends. Later, an interest in photography consumed his time and he spent many happy hours in his own darkroom. Also musically inclined, John played trombone in the school band and orchestra and sang in high school and college choirs. John entered Utica College, where he majored in English. After two years, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in Germany and France. Upon his return from Europe, John resumed his English studies at Utica College and graduated with a bachelor's degree in 1959. For more than a decade, John taught secondary English in Mohawk Valley schools before taking up work as an automobile mechanic. In 1990, John joined the Otsego County Chemical Dependencies Clinic, serving as addictions counselor in the Otsego County jail until 1998. In 1980, John married Elizabeth Reed Baum. The couple, along with Betty's younger children, David and Joanna, resided in West Winfield. In 1998, John and Betty moved to Cooperstown. Betty Currier, his wife of 22 years, survives. Surviving also is Ann Currier, his daughter from a previous marriage, and Betty's children, Trish Galfano and Rob, David and Joanna Baum. Jeannette Armstrong of Springfield Center, a sister, also survives along with many nieces and nephews. His sister Judith Morrison predeceased him in 2001. John, his family, and others who knew him are grateful for the gift of 33 years of sobriety that he received from Alcoholics Anonymous. In the process of working his program, he touched many more lives than he knew. Always patient and honest, John had courage and respect for those with whom he was engaged in honest conflict over ideas and principles to which he felt committed. John Currier was a caring friend, a sponsor, mentor, companion and advocate. But whatever part he played, John was always a gentleman. A memorial service to celebrate the life of John Currier will be held at Christ Episcopal Church on River Street in Cooperstown on Saturday, Jan. 18 at 11 a.m. A reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, friends are invited to send contributions to the LEAF Council on Alcoholism and Addictions, Inc., 13 Commons Drive, Cooperstown, 13326. (January 16, 2003)

Mark S. Lynch IHS 1978, age 42, passed away on Saturday, January 11, 2003. Mark was born on January 30, 1960, in Ilion, NY. He was preceded in death by his father Ronald J. Lynch and is survived by his mother Lena D. Lynch; Sister Rhonda L. Greiner, her husband Joe and their children Justin and Kara; Brother Joseph J. Costanza, his wife Brenda and their children Jillian and Joey; and hundreds of friends. Mark graduated from Ilion High School and attended Herkimer County Community College. Moving to the Clear Lake area in 1984 he opened Rock Neutney's Irish Pub where he was partner/owner and manager and soon gained a reputation in the community for his generousity and kind heartedness. He had a love for his family, music, enjoyed cigars and his friends. A visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 14, 2003, from 5pm through 9pm at Crowder Funeral Home, 111 E. Medical Center Blvd., Webster, TX 77598 with a Funeral Mass on Wednesday, January 15, 2003, at 10 am at St. Bernadette Catholic Church, 15500 El Camino Real, and with an interment to follow in New York. In lieu of flowers a memorial contribution may be made to American Heart Association, PO Box 15186, Austin, TX 78761. (January 14, 2003)

John L. Brown Valedictorian IHS 1931, age 88, a professor of comparative literature at Catholic University from 1968 to 1979, when he received emeritus status, died of congestive heart failure Nov. 22 at his home in Washington. He had lived off and on in Washington since the 1930s. Dr. Brown, a native of Ilion, N.Y., received a bachelor's degree from Hamilton College and a doctorate in history from Catholic University. During World War II, he was a publications supervisor in the Office of War Information and served with the Office of Strategic Services, the predecessor to the CIA. From the late 1940s to the 1960s, he had various diplomatic and cultural postings with the State Department in Europe, including in France, Belgium and Italy. In the 1960s, he returned to the world of academics and lectured widely on American-European literary and intellectual relations. Dr. Brown also was a published poet. He was a member of the Cosmos Club, the P.E.N. Club and the Modern Language Association of America. He also was a member of St. Thomas Apostle Catholic Church in Washington. His survivors include his wife of 60 years, Simone-Yvette Brown of Washington; two sons, Michel, of Great Barrington, Mass., and John H., of Washington; and two granddaughters. (January 12, 2003)

Margaret Josephine (Compeau) Loftis IHS Alumnus, age 85, formerly of 46 W. Montgomery St., Ilion, passed away Thursday, Jan. 9, 2003, at the Masonic Home in Utica. She was born Dec. 7, 1917, in Ilion, the daughter of the late Edward and Verna Buchingheim Compeau. She was educated in the Ilion schools and on Aug. 30, 1940, was married to Robert F. Loftis. He passed away Feb. 13, 1991. Mrs. Loftis was employed as a part-time packing clerk with Herkimer County Cheese Co., retiring several years ago.Mrs. Loftis was a member of the Church of the Annunciation in Ilion and a former member of Catholic Daughters. She also enjoyed making rugs and doll houses. Mrs. Loftis is survived by a son and daughter-in-law, Robert Edward and Kristi Loftis of Maple Lake, Minn.; three daughters and sons-in-law, Jeanne and John Farnsworth of Frankfort, Patricia and Thomas Chappon of Seattle, Wash. and Sandra and James Russell of Andover; grandchildren, Scott and Michael Fifield, Emmeline De Cristo, Shannon and Brian Chappon, Jonathan and George Ann Loftis; and severalnieces and nephews. She was predeceased by a brother, Arthur Compeau; and two sisters, Shirley Orr and Thelma Conners. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, Jan. 13, at 11 a.m. in the Church of the Annunciation, Ilion, with Fr. Joseph Benintende, officiating. Interment will be in the Armory Hill Cemetery in the spring. Friends may call Sunday, Jan. 12, from 3-5 p.m. at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St., Ilion. Friends are asked to considermemorials to the Masonic Home in Margaret's memory. The family wishes to thank the nurses and staff of 1 Stewart at the Masonic Home for their excellent care and compassion. (January 11, 2003)

Mildred S. (Smith) Myers IHS Alumnus, age 87, formerly of Main St., Mohawk, and 210 Second St., Ilion, died Wednesday, January 1, 2003, at St. Joseph's Nursing Home, Utica, where she had been a recent resident. She was born on August 31, 1915, in E. Frankfort, the daughter of Joseph and Josephine Skroud Smith, and attended East Frankfort School and Ilion High School. At one time, she was married to Anthony Myers who died in 1952. In her early years, Mildred was employed as a parts straightener at Sperry Rand Univac, Ilion and Utica. She later was employed as an assembler at General Electric Co., Utica. Most recently, she was employed as an assembler at MDS of Herkimer, retiring in 1960. Mildred was a member of the Church of the Annunciation and was a Eucharistic Minister. She also was a member of the Secular Franciscan Order of Utica (St. Joseph's-St. Patrick's Church). Mrs. Myers was also a former member and past president of the Ilion Council of Catholic Women and a member of the Cathol! ic Daughters of America. Survivors include her niece, Elizabeth (Betty) Gabberty and her husband, Don, of Ft. Pierce, FL; two nephews, Claude Baker, of Herkimer, and Robert Baker, of Philadelphia, PA; three grandnieces, Sally Rogers, of Avon, MA, Bonnie Ottaviano, of Holbrook, MA, and Patty Ann Baker, of Avon, MA; one great-grandniece; and three great-grandnephews. She was predeceased by her two sisters, Mary Roberts and Elizabeth Baker, and her infant son, Francis. Funeral services will be held 11:15 a.m., Tuesday, January 7, at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, 102 West St., Ilion, and 12 noon at the Church of the Annunciation where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Father Joseph Benintende, Pastor. Interment will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Frankfort. Visitation will be held Tuesday, 10:15 a.m. to 11:15 a.m., prior to the service at the Applegate & Day Funeral Home, Ilion. Memorial contributions may be made to the Church of the Annunciation. (January 11, 2003)

Mrs. Gertrude Dempster Getman IHS 1927, age 94, of South Third Ave., Ilion, passed away Tuesday, December 24, 2002, at St. Luke's Medical Center. She was born October 29, 1908, in Garoga, NY, the daughter of the late Leonard and Bessie Dorn Dempster. Gertrude was a graduate of Ilion High School and Crouse Irving Hospital School of Nursing. She taught for several years at Crouse Irving Hospital after her graduation. She was an RN at the Ilion, Herkimer and Cooperstown Hospitals, retiring several years ago. On February 15, 1936, she married Lynn Getman in Ilion. He passed away December 24, 1983. Mrs. Getman was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Ilion and was very active in the Church Women's Society. She was a member of the Valley Chapter 82 Order of the Eastern Star, the Mohawk Valley Hospital Guild and the Folts Home Auxiliary. She is survived by three sons and daughters-in-law, John and Pilar, o! f Spain, Allan and Amy, of Wilmington, NY, and Paul and Tina, of Rochester, NY; a daughter, Elaine Getman, of Charlotte, NC; seven grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Funeral services for Mrs. Getman will be held on Monday, December 30, 2002, at 4:00 p.m. from the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St., Ilion, with Rev. Robert Wollaber officiating. Burial will be in the North Columbia Cemetery in the spring. Friends may call Monday from 1:00 p.m. until the time of the service. (December 29, 2002)

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