Katherine R. Truswell

September 25, 2018, 12:00 am

Katherine R. Truswell, 98, passed away peacefullly at Northwood’s Nursing Center in Moravia. She was from Skaneateles and formely from Ponce Intlet, FL. Katherine ran Truswell Marine with her husband, Roy. Her family was her biggest joy and she loved children and clowning.
Katherine is predeceased by her husband, Roy D. and brother, James Rhodes. She is survived by her sons, Roy (Jacquelyn) of Skan, Robert (Jeannine) of Greeley, CO; sister, Mary Ellen McConnell of Hilton Head, SC; granddaugthers, Mary Kay (Adam) Kehoe and Penny (Bill) Wells, both of Moravia; grandson, Michael Truswell of CO, 3 great grandsons, Thomas, Michael and Joshua Swan, 1 great great grandson, Dean; step granddaughters, Nicole and Sara, and many nieces and nephews.
The family would like to extend a special thanks to Northwoods Nursing & Rehab and St. Andrews United Methodist Church for their care and support.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 6, 2018 at 2pm at St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church. Burial will follow in Shepard Settlement Cemetery.
Contributions may be made to St. Andrew’s Church; 4264 Jordan Road, Mottville, NY 13119
To send condolences visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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Marshall S. Skiff

September 28, 2018, 12:00 am

≫ Next: Tracy Jo Reagan

≪ Previous: Katherine R. Truswell

Marshall S. Skiff, of Skaneateles, was born October 25, 1924 in Syracuse, passed away at home September 28, 2018.
He was co-owner of Beak & Skiff Apple Farms; original member of The Western New York Apple Growers Association; Board Member of Woodlawn Cemetery World War II veteran, serving in the South Pacific with The 38th Infantry Division and was assigned to the Philippine Scouts. Former member of Bellevue Country Club and Skaneateles Country Club. Member of Skaneateles VFW Post 239 and Skaneateles Ski Club.
Along with his wife Joan, Marshall was a downhill ski racer competing in local, Eastern, National and International events for over 40 years. He loved growing things, especially apples and was very proud of his gardens.
Marshall was predeceased by “The Love of His Life and guiding star, Joan” and daughter, Roberta Skiff Pittard. He is survived by four daughters Marilynn Skiff (David Soderberg), Patricia Curtis (Scott), Deborah Brennan (Edward), and Sandra Skiff (Doug Adams); 11 grandchildren and 14 grandchildren.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday, October 4th from 3 to 7pm at Robert D. Gray Funeral Home, Skaneateles. Funeral service will be on Friday October, 5th at 10am at the First Presbyterian Church, Skaneateles. Marshall will be buried in Lakeview cemetery.
Contributions can be made to Skaneateles American Legion Post 239 or Skaneateles First Presbyterian Church.
To send condolences visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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Tracy Jo Reagan

October 3, 2018, 12:00 am

≫ Next: Stephen Vincent Ardia

≪ Previous: Marshall S. Skiff

Tracy Jo Reagan,45, of Skaneateles Falls, passed away on October 3, 2018 with her loving and devoted husband by her side. Tracy fought a valiant fight against breast cancer. She went to Moravia Central Schools, and worked for both Moravia Schools and Jordan Elbridge Central Schools as a special needs bus driver. Tracy loved her job and donating her time to many charities. She was an auxiliary member of the Skaneateles Falls Valentine Post 317. She cherished her children and grandchildren and was a ‘rescue mom,’ saving two dogs and two cats.
Tracy is predeceased by her father, Terrace Ripley and brother-in-law, Sarge. She is survived by the love of her life, Patrick Reagan; children, Ashley (Ted) Meis, Joshua (Nina) Scott, Tyler Scott, and Brian (Angela) Reagan, 12 grandchildren; her mom, Judy Ripley (Dennis Ellerson), sisters, Cindy (Darryl) Nickerson, Lisa (Al) Seaman, and Terry Knapp (Kacy Ellerson); father and mother-in-law, John and Gloria Reagan; sisters-in-law, Corina Sargent and Kelly (Kenny) Reagan; brother-in-law, Jay (Jen) Reagan; longtime friend, Gerald Fountain, and many loving nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held at 7pm on Tuesday, October 9, 2018 at the Robert D. Gray Funeral Home. Calling hours will be held from 4 to 7pm prior to the service. Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Jordan Elbridge Central School District, (in memo write special needs fund in memory of Tracy): JECSD Transportation Department; 9 North Chappell St., PO Box 902 Jordan, NY 13080
To send condolences visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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Stephen Vincent Ardia

October 8, 2018, 12:00 am

≫ Next: David E. Blackwell

≪ Previous: Tracy Jo Reagan

On October 8, 2018 Stephen Vincent Ardia passed away after a courageous battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his wife and children.
Steve was the son of Vincent and Anita Ardia of New Jersey. He was born on August 3, 1941 in Hackensack, NJ. An avid baseball fan, he was the catcher for his high school baseball team where he caught for his younger brother Richard. Steve graduated from Ramapo Regional High School in 1959. After earning a congressional appointment to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, NY, he graduated with a B.S. in mechanical engineering in 1963. He served in the Merchant Marines from 1963 to 1964. In 1964, he married Virginia Sue Ellis of Wyckoff, NJ. He earned an MBA from Rutgers University in 1970. In 1966, Steve began a long career with Goulds Pumps, Inc. of Seneca Falls, NY.
The transformative event in his professional life was taking a position as South East Asia Sales Manager for Goulds in 1970. Steve and Ginny moved to Singapore with their two sons, David born in 1966 and Daniel born in 1967. He was promoted to Director of International Sales for Goulds and returned to Seneca Falls in 1974. A third child Deborah joined the family in 1977. In 1979, Steve became the Vice President of Sales for Goulds and became President and CEO in 1984. As CEO, he grew Goulds Pumps into a world leader in industrial pump technology culminating in Goulds joining the Fortune 500 in 1991.
In 1995, Steve retired from Goulds Pumps. After six months of retirement, he took on the role of CEO of the pump company Environment One, based in Schenectady, NY, where he worked from 1995 to 2001. He enjoyed a brief second retirement before returning to business serving in a range of positions across the world including chairman, CEO, board member, owner, and investor. He is remembered as an admired and valued mentor to many.
While Steve and Ginny raised their three kids in Skaneateles, NY, they eventually grew tired of Central New York snow and began spending winters on Amelia Island, FL. Reconnecting with his passion for the ocean, they eventually transitioned to living the majority of the year in Florida. However, they never lost their love of Skaneateles Lake. Steve felt surrounded in both communities by dear and supportive friends who were there by his side up until the end. Committed to his local institutions, he served as President of the Skaneateles Country Club and President of the Amelia Island Club. His passions included cigars, golf, hiking, New York Mets, and collecting civil war era Colt firearms.
Steve was deeply committed to his family and engineered elaborate yearly family vacations all over the world. He is survived by his wife Virginia, his sons David and Daniel Ardia, his daughter Deborah Ardia McGinn, and his brother Richard Ardia. Steve and his brother were extraordinarily close throughout their lives.
Stephen Vincent Ardia was a beloved husband, son, father, brother, and grandfather to seven grandchildren. Donations in lieu of flowers can made to the Melinda Gray Ardia Environmental Foundation (MGAEF), 6425 Cloverleaf Circle, East Amherst NY 14051, http://mgaef.org/donate.htm. The MGAEF was founded in 1996 in memory of Melinda Gray Ardia, Steve’s beloved daughter-in-law. Steve was passionate about the Foundation’s work supporting environmental education in the USA and across the world.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. Burial will be in Lakeview Cemetery. Remembrances can be posted at www.forevermissed.com/stephen-ardia/.
Arrangements by Robert D. Gray Funeral Home, Skaneateles.

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David E. Blackwell

October 13, 2018, 12:00 am

≫ Next: Ronald J. "Brisk" Bruzdzinski, Sr.

≪ Previous: Stephen Vincent Ardia

David E. Blackwell of Skaneateles passed away peacefully at home with his family on October 13, 2018. He was born to the late Clarence M. Blackwell and Marie K. (Shackelford) Blackwell on August 26, 1938, the youngest of six children. He is lovingly remembered by his wife of 58 years, Patricia (Scheu) Blackwell, and three sons, Gregory D. of Baltimore, MD, Christopher D. (Annette) of East Greenwich, RI, and Geoffrey D. (Tracey) of Skaneateles, and nine grandchildren.
David was a graduate of Hamburg Central schools where he was senior class president, Clarkson College of Technology (B.S. in civil engineering), and the University of Buffalo (M.B.A.).
He was a Clarkson Distinguished Military Graduate commissioned to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, serving as a 2nd Lt. at Fort Belvoir, VA when he also trained at the U.S. Naval School as a Deep-Sea Diver and Salvage Officer for the Army. He was discharged as a Captain in 1968 after his active and reserve duty.
He enjoyed a career with the Bethlehem Steel Corporation, first in Lackawanna and later in Bethlehem, PA and Sparrows Point, MD where he was the General Manager at both locations.
In 1987 Ford Motor Company appointed him the President and CEO of the Rouge Steel Division in Dearborn, MI. Upon the sale of that division he joined Lone Star Steel in TX as the Vice Chairman and Chief Operating Officer. He then joined Auburn Steel Company, Austeel, in Auburn, NY in 1992 as vice-president and president for several years. David was also later the Chairman of Qualitech Steel and Holding Corp., after which he retired.
David is survived by a brother Paul E. (Catherine) Blackwell of Macedon, NY. His brothers Robert M. (Beatrice), Charles M. (Grace), Clarence Jr. (Mary), and sister Dorothy M. (Donald) Hatch predeceased him.
His beloved grandchildren Alexander, Emily, Calvin, Benjamin, Michael, Grace, Ava, Charlotte, and Patrick helped him celebrate his recent 80th birthday.
He was especially interested in his home woodworking shop and gardening. He enjoyed his time in volunteer work with Boy Scouts, Village of Skaneateles municipal committees, and as a FISH of Skaneateles driver. He was a member of the Skaneateles Country Club and enjoyed golf, often meeting his sons for a foursome at a distant location. He enjoyed traveling with Pat and playing in bridge groups with her over the years.
Services are private. Memorial donations may be made to SAVES, 77 Fennel St., Skaneateles or a favorite charitable organization.
To send condolences visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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Ronald J. "Brisk" Bruzdzinski, Sr.

October 30, 2018, 12:00 am

≫ Next: Sylvia Eileen (Cavanagh) Price

≪ Previous: David E. Blackwell

Ronald J. “Brisk” Bruzdzinski, Sr., 80, of Skaneateles passed away peacefully at home on October 30, 2018. Ronald was retired from the City of Syracuse School District after over 40 years of service. He was a communicate of St. Mary’s Church in Skaneateles and past co-owner of Syracuse Blazers. Ronald enjoyed hunting, bowling and watching the UFC.
Ronald is predeceased by his wife, Joyce Dillon Bruzdzinski and parents, Joseph and Albina Bruzdzinski. He is survived by his son, Ronald J. Bruzdzinski, Jr. (Leigh Hanson); grandchild, Ronald J. Bruzdzinski, III; step-grandchildren, Chloe and Sophie Hanson; sister, Sandra Sutton, and 3 nieces, Shelley (Jeff) Bailer, Sherri (Mike) Willis, and Sue Sutton.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, November 2nd at 10am at St. Mary’s of the Lake Church, Skaneateles. Ronald will be buried in St. Mary’s Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Mottville Fire Company; 4149 Frost St., Mottville, NY 13119.
To send condolences visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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Sylvia Eileen (Cavanagh) Price

October 30, 2018, 12:00 am

≫ Next: Sheryl A. Richardson

≪ Previous: Ronald J. "Brisk" Bruzdzinski, Sr.

Sylvia Eileen (Cavanagh) Price born August 17,1937 in Philadelphia, PA, quietly passed away on Tuesday, October 30, 2018. She was the devoted wife of the late Donald James Price, Sr. She is survived by her loving daughters and sons: Debi Price Murray (James) of Palmyra, NY, Donald J. Price Jr. of Skaneateles, Eileen M. Price of Skaneateles, and John S. Price (Molly), of Morrison, CO; Grandchildren: Sean and Michael Murray, Anna, Luke, Diego and Ellie Price; Sister In Law: Mary Evelyn Breslin of Ambler, PA; Brother-In-Law: Frank “Donnie” O’Donnell of Lower Gwynedd, PA and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Michael Cavanagh and Mary (McCole) Cavanagh of Mt. Airy, PA; Sisters Mary Theresa Phipps and Rachel” Babs” O’Donnell.
Sylvia was a 52-year resident of Skaneateles, NY, and during that time spent 17 school calendar years in Fairport, NY (1970 - 1987). She was a member of St. Mary’s of the Lake Church. She was an avid golfer and a longtime member of Skaneateles Country Club. She also enjoyed gourmet cooking, bowling, volunteering and reading down by the lake. Skaneateles was Don & Sylvia’s "Camelot".
Sylvia will forever be remembered for her love and lifelong devotion to her family. The beautiful memories of her are cast in what characterized her being as a person with a strong faith in God, love for all of her large, extended family and friends and service to her community. Her warmth towards friends and strangers alike was always felt as she greeted them with a great big smile and sincere interest.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, November 16th, from 4 to 6pm at Robert D. Gray Funeral Home, Skaneateles. A Celebration of Life Mass will be held on Saturday, November 17th at 11am at St. Mary's of the Lake Church, 81 Jordan Street, Skaneateles, NY.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Alzheimer's Association, (www.alz.org/centralnewyork)
Date of passing life on earth into God’s kingdom forever: October 30, 2018. To send condolences visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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Sheryl A. Richardson

November 20, 2018, 12:00 am

≫ Next: Olive Murphy Goodwin

≪ Previous: Sylvia Eileen (Cavanagh) Price

Sheryl A. Richardson, 65, of Weedsport passed away peacefully on November 20, 2018 at home. She graduated from Jordan-Elbridge High School and was retired after 30+ years from Welch Allyn. Sheryl was a member of the 1st United Methodist Church of Weedsport. She enjoyed fishing, gardening, crafting and watching birds. Sheryl was the matriarch of her family and loved when her family was together.
She was predeceased by her husband James in 2013. Sheryl is survived by her sons, Jamie (Lena Czajkowski), Corey (Jennifer) and Brian; four grandchildren, Kelsey, Samuel, Michael, and Johnny; three sisters, Roxanne, Suzan, and Shirley and many nieces and nephews.
Calling hours will be held from 5 to 7pm on Tuesday, November 27th at the Robert D. Gray Funeral Home, Skaneateles. A funeral service will be held at 7pm.
To send condolences visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com

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Olive Murphy Goodwin

November 20, 2018, 12:00 am

≫ Next: Betty J. Burns

≪ Previous: Sheryl A. Richardson

Olive Murphy Goodwin, 91, of Lynchburg, VA died pin her residence at Liberty Ridge Assisted Living Community on November 20, 2018. Olive was born in her home on Foster Road in Elbridge to Thomas and Lillian Borte Murphy on January 24, 1927. She graduated from Marcellus High School in 1946 and Rochester Institute of Technology with an associate degree in Retailing in 1949. She and her late husband (11/25/2011), David, met at the Camillus Cutlery where Olive worked for a summer and David was a tool and die maker. The couple married in Cleveland, OH on July 3, 1953. Prior to having children, Olive worked in retail and credit for Sears and Roebuck. The couple’s children, Sandra Denice and Kirk David, were born in Cleveland. The family moved to Rochester, NY to be closer to family in 1962. David’s employer, General Motors, transferred him to Dayton, OH in 1966. Olive quickly grew to love Dayton as she embraced and actively supported her children’s education in the Kettering Public schools and became a friend to many at Far Hills Baptist Church in Kettering. Olive loved children, and often opened her heart and home to her children’s friends. Actively involved in children’s and prayer ministry first at Far Hills Baptist Church and then First Baptist Church of Kettering, her life demonstrated her love for her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Olive lived close to her daughter for the last decade of her life, first in MD and since 2014 in VA.
Olive was preceded in death by her son Kirk (2009), her husband David (2011), all her siblings - Mary (Ed) Kinney, Marguerite (Edson) Gillette, Alice, Robert, and Frances (Evelyn), and nephew Michael Murphy. She is survived by her daughter Sandra (Stephen), granddaughter Erin, and sister-in-law Shirley (Robert) Murphy, many nieces and nephews – including great, great, great nieces, and cousins.
Olive loved people well as she lived out her Christian faith. She blessed her family, friends, and her many care-givers with her gift of encouragement. One care-giver shared, “I never left Olive’s presence without feeling better about myself”. She was a courageous, hard worker achieving dreams for herself and encouraging her children to achieve theirs. Olive also loved dogs, particularly the family’s miniature dachshund, and working outside developing and maintaining their family’s large property.
Calling hours begin at 2pm on December 2 at Robert D. Gray funeral home in Skaneateles, NY. Rev. Andrew Kilpatrick, Jr. will be the officiant for the 3pm Funeral service, and the December 3, 11 am interment at Lakeview Cemetery in Skaneateles. A memorial service led by Rev. Wayne Wingfield will be held in the Pratt Chapel at Liberty Ridge in Lynchburg, VA on December 6 at 3pm.

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Betty J. Burns

November 23, 2018, 12:00 am

≫ Next: Rachel M. Covert

≪ Previous: Olive Murphy Goodwin

Betty J. Burns, 75, of Skaneateles, passed away peacefully on November 23, 2018 after a brief illness at Auburn Hospital.
She was born at home to the late Paul W. Lader and Viola C. Schaeffer Lader. She grew up on the family farm and lived her life in Skaneateles. She was a graduate of Skaneateles High School. She worked several years for Welch-Allyn before becoming a homemaker. Betty enjoyed the outdoor activities of snowmobiling, deer hunting, trap shooting, cross-country skiing, and gardening. She also loved canning her garden vegetables and baking. She was an avid animal lover having several cats and dogs, and a nature enthusiast with her many bird feeders. She was a woman of dignity and perfection.
Betty was predeceased by her brother Melvin Lader and a sister, Gail Landers. Betty is survived by her husband, Stephen Burns and a sister, Evelyn (Francis) Grinnell.
Sister-in-laws Roberta Cole Lader, Robin Burns Fowler and Kathleen Burns Hotchkin and a brother-in-law Ed Landers; several nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews and a great-great nephew and cousins.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, November 30th from 11 to 1pm with a service immediately following at the Robert D. Gray Funeral Home, Skaneateles. Burial will be in Lakeview Cemetery. Contributions in her memory may be made to Skaneateles Area Volunteer Ambulance (SAVES) or an animal charity of your choice. To send condolences visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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Rachel M. Covert

November 27, 2018, 12:00 am

≫ Next: Ruth L. Anderson

≪ Previous: Betty J. Burns

Rachel M. Covert, 30, of Moravia passed away November 27, 2018. She was very family oriented and was the glue that kept the family together especially with her cooking and baking. She loved animals and would do anything for them.
She leaves behind her fiancé Stephen Hunt. She was a devoted and loving mother of her daughter Lyric. She also leaves behind her father Todd Covert, brothers Brennan (Kara) and Eric; special and dear aunt Brenda, nieces and nephews Brian, Lucas, Lily and Alyssa. She was predeceased by her mother Terri Covert in 2014
Calling hours will be held on Monday, December 3rd from 4 to 7pm at Robert D. Gray Funeral Home, Skaneateles. Burial will be private.
Contribution in Rachel’s memory may be made to the SPCA or HEAL.
To send condolences visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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Ruth L. Anderson

December 1, 2018, 12:00 am

≫ Next: Richard G. Hood Sr.

≪ Previous: Rachel M. Covert

Ruth L. Anderson, 82 of Skaneateles passed away peacefully at home on December 1st. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 8th at 10am at the First Presbyterian Church, Skaneateles. Burial will be Private.
To send condolences visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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Richard G. Hood Sr.

December 3, 2018, 12:00 am

≫ Next: Charles L. Jordan

≪ Previous: Ruth L. Anderson

Richard G. Hood, Sr. “Dick”, 80, of Skaneateles, passed away unexpectedly on December 3, 2018. Dick was the owner of RG Hood’s Welding Service and an active member of the Tigris Shriners, Skaneateles Mason Post 522, and Auburn American Legion Post 1324. After graduating high school, he joined the US Air Force, where he was a chief mechanic. Dick was a pilot and enjoyed collecting antique cars, hunting and camping with the NY Central Camping Group.
Dick was predeceased by his beloved wife, Betty and parents, Ivan and Elsie. He is survived by his children, Richard G. Hood, Jr. of Marcellus, and Terry (Mark) Gabel of Souderton, PA; grandsons, Eric and Jake Gabel; siblings, Gary (Carol), William, and Audrey (George) Wood; and several nieces and nephews.
Calling hours will be held from 4 to 6pm on Wednesday, December 12th at Robert D. Gray Funeral Home, Skaneateles. Burial will be in Downsville, NY at later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to SAVES or Tigris Shriners; 1121 Milton Ave, Syracuse, NY 13204. To send condolences visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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Charles L. Jordan

December 10, 2018, 12:00 am

≫ Next: Beverly E. Surdam

≪ Previous: Richard G. Hood Sr.

Charles L. Jordan, 92 of Skaneateles passed away on December 10th at Auburn Nursing Home. Born in Syracuse to the late William and Elizabeth Jordan, he was the former co-owner of Jordan Box Co., in Syracuse. He was drafted out of high school by the Merchant Marines to serve during WWII. After the war Charles went to Syracuse University where he graduated with a geology degree. After college he was drafted for a 2nd time by the US Army to serve during the Korean Conflict. During his youth he would spend the summer at his family camp on Brant Lake which gave him the lifelong love for the Adirondack’s.
Charles is survived by his wife of 56 years Barbara, sons Charles L (Kristen) Jordan, Jr. of Hoboken, NJ and Edward M. Jordan of Skaneateles, granddaughter Clara Jordan and several cousins, nieces and nephews.
A graveside service will be held on Friday, December 14th at 11am at Lake View Cemetery, Skaneateles.
Memorial donation may be made to the Skaneateles United Methodist Church.
To send condolences visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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Beverly E. Surdam

December 11, 2018, 12:00 am

≫ Next: Gerald D. Morrissey

≪ Previous: Charles L. Jordan

Beverly E. Surdam, 85, of Skaneateles, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, December 11 at Upstate University Hospital. The daughter of Bessie and Howard Van Camp, she was born in Ogdensburg, N.Y., and lived in the Central New York area her entire life. Beverly loved baking and was devout to the Bible.
Beverly was pre-deceased by her loving husband of 62 years, Fredrick R. Surdam, and is survived by her children Pamela J. Wilbur of Auburn; Gail L. Surdam of Mottville; James R. Surdam of Syracuse; Daniel (Margaret) R. Surdam of Skaneateles; Kimberly A. Surdam of St. Augustine, Fla.; and Tammy M. Surdam of Skaneateles; 11 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; one great great-grandchild; and several nieces and nephews.
Calling hours will be Friday, from 4 to 6pm at Robert D. Gray Funeral Home, Skaneateles. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, 10am at St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church, Mottville. Burial will be private at Highland Cemetery, Marcellus. A reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church, Jordan Road, Mottville, N.Y., 13119. To send condolences visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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Gerald D. Morrissey

November 16, 2018, 12:00 am

≫ Next: Paul William "Bill" Pavlus

≪ Previous: Beverly E. Surdam

Gerald D. Morrissey, age 83, passed away at his home in Venice, Florida on November 16, 2018 surrounded by his loving family. Jerry, as he was known to friends and family, was born in Lynbrook, NY in 1935, one of four children.
Before retiring to Florida with his wife, Dorothy, Jerry lived for many years in Skaneateles and Marcellus, NY where he helped to raise his 10 children and three stepchildren. He enjoyed a long career as a school teacher and school administrator within both school districts. In the summers, he ran a house-painting business employing many of his children throughout the years.
Jerry will be fondly remembered as a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle, and friend. He is survived by his wife Dorothy, brother Dr. James Morrissey, sister Nellda Reifsnyder, and was predeceased by his brother William. He is also survived by his children, Kevin (Joanie), Patricia (Dan), Michael (Renee), Jean, Stephen (Lisa), Jerry (Kathleen), Thomas (Sarah), Mary Kerwick (Matt), James (Courtney), Karen Bedard (Scott), and stepchildren, Robert Ceparski (Beth), Jeffrey Ceparski (Karen), and Jennifer Gallegos (Bylo). He also leaves behind 22 beloved grandchildren.
Jerry was a devoted father and grandfather. He took every opportunity he could get to coach or watch his offspring play sports of all kinds. He loved fishing and swimming with his grandchildren and was always the first one in the pool or ocean, no matter how cold the water. Jerry was an avid golfer, lifelong Brooklyn Dodgers fan, and overall sports enthusiast. Additionally, he enjoyed gardening and volunteering for Meals on Wheels. While Jerry never shied away from a good long road trip, home was his favorite place in the world.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday, December 27th from 4 to 6pm at Robert D. Gray Funeral, Skaneateles.
To send condolences visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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Paul William "Bill" Pavlus

December 16, 2018, 12:00 am

≫ Next: Nora Di Carlo Colucci

≪ Previous: Gerald D. Morrissey

Paul William “Bill” Pavlus, 91 of Skaneateles, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 16, 2018. Bill was born in Skaneateles on June 25, 1927. He graduated from Skaneateles High School and Central City Business Institute. He answered Uncle Sam’s call and entered the United States Army during WWII and was honorably discharged in 1947. Upon returning home, bill met the love of his life, the former Beatrice Scriven. They were married a short time later and enjoyed 63 wonderful years together. In his early years, Bill drove truck and delivered fuel oil before beginning a career with the Postal Service in 1962, as a city carrier. He went on to become Postmaster of Skaneateles, and retired from the Postal Service after 30 years.
Bill’s love for his community, led him to volunteer at many organizations. He was a Honorary Member and Fund Drive Cochairman of S.A.V.E.S.; President of the Skaneateles Chamber of Commerce, President and Secretary of the Skaneateles Rotary, where he received a Presidential Citation and the Paul Harris Fellow Award for outstanding service, as well as Rotarian of the year in 1985. In 1987 he was voted Citizen of the year, as well as, the Dewitt Clinton Masonic Award for Community Service. Bill delivered Meals on Wheels, he was founder of the Skaneateles Native Old Timers. He was an Honorary Member of the Skaneateles Fire Department, Chairman of the Salvation Army unit of Skaneateles, winning the Bell Ringer Award in 1985. He was president of the Skaneateles Historical Society, the Seniors of Skaneateles and the Skaneateles Rod and Gun Club. In 2000, he received the Senior Community Service Award, for outstanding community service to his community. He was a proud member of both the Skaneateles and Skaneateles Falls American Legion. Bills love of nature and the land around Skaneateles, led him to serve eight years on the Town of Skaneateles Planning Board, and was elected to five consecutive terms as Skaneateles Town Supervisor from 1996 to 2005. Bill enjoyed hunting and fishing and was especially proud of his work to acquire the Federal Farm, for the Town of Skaneateles, which is known today as, the Skaneateles Conservation Area. Bill was Chairman of the Skaneateles Landfill Committee, which was started in 1987, to study ways to start recycling in the town of Skaneateles. In 1998, the Town of Skaneateles received the Governor’s Excellence Award for their outstanding recycling program. During his years as Town Supervisor, Bill and others worked to get the Skaneateles Pier repaired as you see it today. He worked countless hours assigning street names and street numbers to all of the small roads around Skaneateles when the new 911 system came to Skaneateles. Bill was also proud to have gone on the Honor Flight Mission #002 in 2013. Honor flight carries veterans to Washington DC, to tour the war memorials. His flight came about, at a pivotal time of his life, shortly after losing his wife. This was where he met his guardian Susan Bastable, who together with her husband Jeffrey, made an enormous impact on his life…For this Bill’s family is sincerely grateful. Bill had a great love for the Town of Skaneateles, spending his entire 91 years here. Perhaps Bills proudest moments were when he was with his family. His kind heart and loving soul will be missed by all. He often spoke, that he loved his whole family. He is survived by his daughters, Linda (Terry) Norris of Syracuse and Cathy (Michael) Crary of Skaneateles, his grandchildren, George (Sherry) Kusner, Donna Kusner, Lisa (Chris) Sofranko and Caryn (Zach) Chawgo, along with two great grandchildren Samantha Kusner and Maddy Bea Chawgo, several nieces, nephews and step grandchildren. Bill was predeceased by his wife Beatrice; parents Stefan and Anna; sisters Anne and Suzanne; and a brother John.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday, December 20th from 4 to 8pm at Robert D. Gray Funeral Home, Skaneateles. Funeral service will be Friday, December 21st at 11:00am at St. James Church, 96 East Genesee St, Skaneateles. Burial will take place at Lakeview Cemetery. Contributions in memory of Bill may be made to SAVES Ambulance, Skaneateles Fire Department, or to Honor Flight Syracuse. To send condolences visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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Nora Di Carlo Colucci

December 21, 2018, 12:00 am

≫ Next: William C. "Bill" Blowers

≪ Previous: Paul William "Bill" Pavlus

Nora Di Carlo Colucci, 90, of Mill Rd. Skaneateles passed away on December 21st at The Commons on St. Anthony. Born in Skaneateles, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Dorothy Di Carlo. She retired from Welch Allyn. Nora is survived by her nieces, Julie (Ed) Sheppard King, Joel (Justin) Sheppard and their children. She is predeceased by her parents, her loving husband Donato Colucci, her brother Vic Di Carlo, her sister Mary Di Carlo Sheppard and her nephew Jeff Sheppard. Her family would like to thank the nurses and staff on the 5th floor at The Commons for their care. There are no services. In her name contributions can be made to the Mottville Fire Company or to SAVES.
To send condolences visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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William C. "Bill" Blowers

December 21, 2018, 12:57 pm

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William C, “Bill” Blowers, 95, of Skaneateles passed away peacefully on December 21, 2018 at The Commons on St. Anthony.
Bill was a multi-sport athlete for Split Rock High School and was a retired Insurance Agent at Allstate. He served in the Coast Guard, was an avid sailor, and a member of St. Mary’s of the Lake in Skaneateles.
Bill was preceded in death by the love of his life Arleta J. “Lee” Blowers, grandson William C. Blowers, and Lillian Blowers.
He is survived by his children William C. “Bill” Blowers, Kathy L. Giocondo, Cheryl A. Fay, and Barbara A. Murphy. Brother in law Richard (Agnes) Forger, sisters in law Delores (Joe) Fedrizzi and Marilyn “Mickey” Forger, 16 grandchildren, several great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
The family would like to thank the staff on the 6th floor of The Commons for their warm and compassionate care for the past 3 years.
Calling hours will be Friday, December 28th from 4-7pm at Robert D Gray Funeral Home in Skaneateles. Mass will be on Saturday, December 29th at 10am at St Mary’s of the Lake, Skaneateles followed by burial at the cemetery.
In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Alzheimer’s Association. To send condolences visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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Mary Smyres Leonard

December 22, 2018, 12:00 am

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Mary Smyres Leonard of Skaneateles and Brookdale Senior Living passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, December 22 in Syracuse at the age of 89. She is survived by her husband of 59 years Harold, two sisters Margaret Stockwell and Ruth (Leonard) Zecchini, her children Jim (Patty), Amy and Dave (Susan) and grandchildren Elizabeth, Ellie, Katie and Tim.
Mary was born to Roy and Esther Smyres in Sioux City, Iowa, and lived in many places growing up including Ithaca, Horseheads, Cazenovia, Montour Falls, and Jamaica, NY. She earned her BA from Randolph Macon Woman’s College and an MS Ed. from Cortland State Teachers’ College. She taught elementary school for a number of years in Shelter Island, Japan and Skaneateles. Mary was a devoted and loving wife and mother. She enjoyed reading, knitting, sewing, origami, singing and walking. She will be remembered for her compassionate heart, her sense of humor and her great love of books. One of her happiest activities was a long-time participation in Travelers of Auburn. She was an active member of the Skaneateles United Methodist Church and was a dedicated volunteer for Literacy Volunteers, Pastoral Visits (Van Duyn), Jail Ministry, Meals on Wheels and FISH.
A celebration of life is being planned for Spring.
Contributions in lieu of flowers can be made to the Skaneateles United Methodist Church. To send condolences visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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