Quantcast
Channel: Obituaries & Guestbook - Obituaries & Guestbook
Viewing all 973 articles
Browse latest View live

John H. Manilla

$
0
0
John H. Manilla, 96, passed away peacefully on November 3rd. A lifelong resident of Skaneateles, New York, John graduated from Skaneateles Central High School and attended Arnold College.  In 1942, John left college to enlist in the 8th Army Air Force and was stationed outside of London, England.  He served his nation proudly as a waist gunner on a B-17, flying 33 missions over enemy territory.  After the war, he graduated from the State University of New York at Delhi.  Upon graduation, he started the John H. Manilla Construction Company which he owned and ran for 50 years.  John was very active in his local community.  He was a member of many organizations including the Skaneateles American Legion Post 239, former president of the Skaneateles Rotary Club, sixty-five-year member of the Skaneateles Fire Department, the Home Builders Association of Central New York, the Skaneateles Country Club, and St. Mary’s of the Lake Church. 
John was predeceased by his parents, James and Mary Manilla, his brother, Paul, and his sister, Martha.  He is survived by his loving family, including his wife of sixty-three years, Marty; his brother, S. James; his four children -- John J. (Stephanie) and sons, Martin and James of Fairport, NY; Cynthia A. McGovern (Tom) and children, Meghan, Tommy and Patrick of Sherman, TX; Beth Sandora (Joe) and children, Stephen, Michael and Jenny of Yardley, PA.; and Martha Major (Mark) and children Kevin, Michael and Madeline, also of Yardley, PA, and many nieces and nephews.
There will be no calling hours.  Services will be Saturday, November 9th at 10:00am at St. Mary’s of the Lake Church, Skaneateles followed by interment at St. Mary’s Cemetery. 
In lieu of flowers, the family has established a scholarship fund in John’s name.  Donations may be made to the John H. Manilla Scholarship Fund, American Legion Post 239, PO Box 24, Skaneateles, NY 13152. 
The family would like to give special thanks to the extraordinary caregivers at Upstate Medical Center, 9th floor units F and G.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

 
 


Mary Jane (Grindrod) Fogerty

$
0
0
Mary Jane (Grindrod) Fogerty 79, of Skaneateles and previously Manlius N.Y. passed away peacefully on November 5th, 2019 surrounded by her loving family.
Mary Jane was born April 6th, 1940 in Lynn Massachusetts to Warren and Alice Grindrod. She is survived by her daughter Tara Harris (Jim) of Fayetteville NY, son Matt of Skaneateles NY, and grandchildren Brad, Abbey, Mia Harris and Seamus Fogerty, her sisters Julie Donnelly and Paula DiCenzo and many special nieces and nephews.  She was predeceased by her loving husband Art, beloved son Mark and several relatives and dear friends.
Mary Jane was a graduate of the College of Saint Rose and went on to get her Master’s degree from SUNY Oneonta. She went on to successful careers in teaching, counseling at LeMoyne College and later in Real Estate. She also served in many volunteer roles, from crisis hotlines to school groups her children were involved in as well as the Skaneateles Area Chamber of Commerce and numerous others. 
She was a social person with many friends, many hobbies and many interests. Mary Jane loved her family above all else, especially all of their gatherings at the lake. She enjoyed travel and visited many places across the globe. She was an avid golfer and also enjoyed playing tennis, bridge, and walking with friends. Mary Jane loved attending all her of grandchildren’s many school and sporting events and was an avid Syracuse sports fan. She was a communicant at Saint Mary’s in Skaneateles and previously Immaculate Conception in Fayetteville and was a Eucharistic minister at both places.
Her legendary humor, wit and feisty personality will be missed by so many. Whether she was in Skaneateles, Hilton Head or Syracuse, Mary Jane was at the hub of all social activities. Her decades long gatherings with neighbors, friends and extended family were her greatest joy.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, November 9th at 1 pm at Saint Mary’s of the Lake Catholic church in Skaneateles with a funeral mass and celebration of life to follow at 2 pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Francis House, where her son Mark received such wonderful care a year ago.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com

Michael I. Cates

$
0
0
Michael I Cates, 77, passed away on November 4th, at St. Joseph’s Hospital after a battle with cancer. Born in Lewiston, Maine, he and his wife, Ruth, enjoyed summer vacations in Maine and many trips to faraway places over the years.
Mike most recently worked as the building superintendent at the State Tower building in Syracuse, retiring after 25 years. Mike loved to play golf, belonging to 2 leagues and Treasurer of one. He was proud of his military service and enjoyed hearing, “Thank you for your service” when he wore his Air Force Veteran baseball cap.
Mike also was an avid New York Yankees fan, and he and Ruth enjoyed many baseball trips with Mike’s childhood friend, Jim MacBride, and his wife, Ann Marie.
Mike was proud of his 50-year membership of both the Cortlandville Masonic Lodge #470 and the Local 267 Plumbers & Steamfitters union.
Predeceased by his sister, Elaine Stout, and his grandson, Joshua Cates, he is survived by his wife of 40 years, Ruth, and by his children, Kandi (Dan) Horst, Brian (Stacy) and Annette Cates, Christopher Searle, 5 grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, one cousin and many friends.
Services will be held at Robert D. Gray Funeral Home on Monday, November 11th at 1pm. Friends may call from 11 to 1pm. Burial will be at Pine Ridge Cemetery, Navarino immediately following.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Apple Valley UMC, P.O. Box 126, Marietta, NY. 13110.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.


Alice M. Tokarz

$
0
0
Alice M. Tokarz, 91, of Skaneateles passed away peacefully Monday November 25, 2019 at Upstate University Hospital @ Community General. Born in Auburn to the late Fred and Millicent Brewer Lader, she retired from St. Joseph’s Hospital where she was a Central Service Technician. She was a loving caring and compassionate mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister and aunt. She was a special woman who everyone loved.
Alice is survived by her 6 daughters Linda, Diane, Donna, Maria, Suzanne and Melinda. She is also survived by her sisters Marilyn, Pauline and Freda, along with several grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Lewis and sons Michael and Edwin.
Services for Alice will be 10 a.m. Saturday November 30 at the Robert D. Gray Funeral Home. Calling hours will be from 4-6 p.m. Friday November 29 at the funeral home, 49 Jordan St., Skaneateles.

Marion F. Lear

$
0
0
Marion F. Lear, 90, of Skaneateles, NY, passed away peacefully surrounded by family November 27, 2019.
Marion was born in Cortland, NY to Salem and Nazera Ferris. She grew up in a loving family as the youngest of seven children. She graduated from Cortland High School and worked as an Operator with NY Telephone Company. She married Wayne Lear in 1951 and in 1957 they moved to Skaneateles. Marion devoted her life to her family, community, and church. She enjoyed helping people. She had active roles in many organizations including the ambulance corps, St Mary’s Parish, and Republican Party. She faithfully served the local, County, Northern Central and CNY Fireman’s Auxiliaries. She worked forty-three years as the Town Tax Collector and Assessor’s Clerk. Her beautiful smile warmed everybody's heart. She loved to cook, to visit, and to play card games with friends and family. She gave her love unconditionally to daughters, June Lamon, April (Jim) Dale, Lori (Jim) Milne and Mary Jane (Otto) Meier, and their families.
She is predeceased by Wayne, her husband of 64 years. She is survived by four daughters, three grandchildren- Adam Milne, Kristen (Dave) Marks, Claire Milne, two sisters- Tena (Tom) Maguire and Rena (Jim) LeFever, and extended family.
Calling hours will be Wednesday, December 11th at Robert D. Gray Funeral Home, Skaneateles from 4 to 7 pm.
Private burial planned in Springtime.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Skaneateles Emergency Service- SAVES.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com

Carolyn Ricketts Abbott

$
0
0
Carolyn Ricketts Abbott, 90, passed away on December 2nd at St. Camillus. She was born on July 3, 1929 in Johnstown, NY the only child of Dorothy Havens Ricketts and Thomas Edmund Ricketts. Carolyn was a member of St. James Episcopal Church, Skaneateles, NY, an active member of the Alter Guild and other church organizations/activities. She was active with the St. James Thrift Shop, a member in the Girl Scouts of America until her death. Carolyn was one of the founders of the Skaneateles Nursery School and taught there for 50 years. Carolyn was predeceased by her parents, and her husband William S. Abbott of 62 years. Carolyn is survived by her son Thomas (Linda) Abbott, her daughter Elizabeth (Kenneth) Cramer, seven grandchildren -Christopher (Diana) Abbott, Kimberly Holzwarth, Chelsea Abbott, Spencer Abbott, Kenneth (Valerie) Cramer, Katherine (Robert) Gallo, Jonathan (Leah) Cramer; eight great grandchildren - Emma and Jack Holzwarth, Chase Abbott, Zachary Abbott, Charlotte, Emma, and Riley Gallo, Xara Cramer and her brother and sister-in-law Richard (Barbara) Abbott and several nieces and nephews.  No calling hours. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, December 12th at 10am at St James Church, Skaneateles. Private burial will be in Lake View cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to a charity of your choice.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.


Linda Day-Dennie

$
0
0
Linda Day-Dennie of Skaneateles passed away on Tuesday, December 17th surrounded by her loving family at Upstate Community General Hospital.
Mom was a tough cookie, raised in White Plains, NY, with three beloved older brothers, Donald, Richard, and William and her sister Barbara. She was the last of the siblings to depart this life. She was, and we were, proud of her artistic skills. She painted beautiful landscapes she displayed in her home, and we, in ours. She displayed her work at art shows and at local venues including the New York State Fair. She enjoyed tennis as a teenager and later, played at Syracuse University, where she studied Fine Arts.
Mom enjoyed her country lake life and raised “The Day Girls” in a home filled with both love and craziness, both wonderful homemade dinners and kraft macaroni and cheese, beautiful horses, and a variety of family pets. She maintained a large and bountiful vegetable garden for our family and poured her energy into lovely flower gardens as well. As kids, we played in the surrounding fields and woods, found and slid down hidden streams, rode our bikes to Skaneateles Lake to swim all day and had a glorious childhood.
Through the years, Mom still considered herself to be a real New Yorker. She was thrilled when she could travel to the city with her job at RPM Industries to work trade shows and she always found time to enjoy Broadway shows, local cuisine and the energy of the city.
Mom enjoyed many sports, supporting her girls, and then grandchildren, at countless softball, soccer, hockey and football games, wrestling matches and track meets. She was a big fan of the Syracuse Orangemen and attended many events at the Syracuse Dome.
She is survived by her daughters and their spouses Kelly Day (David Peterson), Kathe Catto (Ed) and Kara Leubner (Jon). She joins daughter Kim McLean, who passed ten years ago. She will be missed by her grandchildren Paul, Daniel, Maria, Joey, Cassie, Tessa, Lacy, Jonathan, Stephen, James, and Rachel and will be an angel watching over three great grandchildren due in 2020.
She was predeceased by husband Paul Day when the girls were very young and later, by husband Richard Dennie.
Mom fought health battles in recent years, yet the suddenness of our loss has broken our hearts. She will be missed.
Services are private.
Donation can be made in Linda’s name to the Borodino Fire Department.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

 
 

Patricia Mahoney Blackler

$
0
0
Patricia Mahoney Blackler, 84, of Skaneateles, NY died
Monday, December 23, 2019, at her home surrounded by
family.
Born to Daniel Patrick and Jeanette Lemoine Mahoney on
December 29, 1934 in Haverhill, MA, Patricia graduated from
Haverhill High School in 1952. She graduated from the
University of New Hampshire in 1956 with a BA in Chemistry
and was a member of Alpha Xi Delta sorority. Following
graduation, Pat worked as a chemist for Eastman Kodak in
Rochester, NY. While in Rochester, she met Walter Hazard
Blackler III at a YMCA ski event for young singles. They were
married in Haverhill in February 1960. They lived in
Cambridge, MA and West Hartford, CT, eventually settling in
Skaneateles in 1965. She had five children.
Pat worked as a real estate agent in Skaneateles for 28 years,
where she developed a deep appreciation for the Village and its
history which shaped her community service for many years.
She was appointed by the mayor of Skaneateles to serve as the
Village Historian in 1996. She proudly served in this position
for 16 years, under four mayors. As historian, she enjoyed
helping people with genealogy research and educating the
community about the rich history of Skaneateles. She served
on the Historic Landmarks Preservation Commission as a
member and the Chairman. She was active in the Skaneateles
Historical Society and was a docent and served on the Board of
the Creamery.
She was instrumental in the design and installation of section
markers for Lake View cemetery and the roadside historical
markers for notable sites on State, Genesee and Onondaga
streets. She started the tradition of the ‘Historic Moments’
presentations at the Skaneateles Village Board meetings. In
2012 her work was recognized by the Skaneateles Sunrise
Rotary Club with the Paul Harris Fellowship given to a person
whose life demonstrates a commitment to helping others in the
community.
Pat was a communicant at St. Mary’s of the Lake Catholic
Church. She was active in religious education, shepherding
many classes of candidates through Confirmation. She was an
inaugural member of the Parish Council on which she served 
for many   years. She served as the parish librarian and on the
Human Development Committee.
She was a proud member of the Leisure Hour Club. She
belonged to the Skaneateles Garden Club, she performed in
Skan-e-antics, she was a room mother, and she was a skilled
artisan in many crafts. She made beautiful clothing and taught
all of her daughters to sew. At Christmas time, notwithstanding
her five small children, she produced silk screened Christmas
cards, decorated the tree with her own handcrafted ornaments,
and constructed elaborate gingerbread houses.
Pat and Walt enjoyed sailing on Skaneateles Lake, and they
were active in the sailboat racing community. They were
members of Owasco Yacht Club, Skaneateles Sailing Club and
Skaneateles Country Club. Pat enjoyed annual summer
vacations in the Adirondacks with her extended family, where
she climbed Mt. Marcy, Giant and Noon Mark. She prioritized
spending time with her children and grandchildren, never
missing a graduation ceremony. She enjoyed traveling, and she
and Walt took each of their grandchildren on a special week-
long trip during their 9-year-old summer. Pat was an avid
bridge player, tennis player and an enthusiastic sports fan. She
especially enjoyed watching Syracuse lacrosse.
Pat was pre-deceased by her parents, her brother, Daniel Patrick
Mahoney Jr, and her son, Walter Hazard Blackler IV. She is
survived by her husband Walt and their four daughters, Anne
Marie Reynolds (Harris) of Houston, Texas, Ellen Blackler
(Francis McNally) of Takoma Park, Maryland, Laurel Grow
(Dan) of Farmington, Connecticut, and Catherine Blackler
(Derek Raymond) of Skaneateles; nine grandchildren, Rudy
Reynolds (Buffin), Catherine Reynolds (Tony Zupancic), Nora
McNally Reiff (Zach Reiff), Peter McNally, Patrick Grow
(Tory), Stephen and Mary Kate Grow, and Caroline and Libby
Raymond, and two great-granddaughters, Sadie Reynolds, and
Penelope Zupancic. She is also survived by her two sisters,
Janet Aliapoulios (Paul) of Freeport, ME and Maureen
MacLeod (Ed) of Seattle, WA, and many nieces and nephews.
The family wishes to thank Pat’s care givers, Hospice of the
Finger Lakes, Marilyn O’Connor and Cheryl Seymour for their
support over the last months of her life.
Calling hours will be held at Robert D. Funeral Home,
Skaneateles on Friday, December 27th from 4-7. A funeral
mass will be held on Saturday, December 28th at 10 AM at St.
Mary’s of the Lake. Burial will occur immediately following at
St. Mary's cemetery in Skaneateles. Friends and family are
invited to gather at the St. Mary’s Parish Center following the
funeral. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the
Skaneateles Historical Society, 28 Hannum St, Skaneateles, NY
13152.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com

Gary McKinley

$
0
0
Gary McKinley passed away quietly at home surrounded by family his on December 23rd.  He fought a long hard battle with the blood cancer multiple myeloma. Gary is originally from Michigan and moved here in 1995. He worked as an account manager for Catalina Marketing retiring in 2017. 
Gary is survived by his wife LeRhea, son Camron (Kelly), son Casey (Claire), grandchildren Ben, Pat, Lily, father, Derald McKinley, mother Carolyn Minnick (Lyle), brother Jay (Kim) McKinley, sisters Diane Payne and Marlene Butzow. Sisters in law Gena Swisher and Lynnette Poole and many nieces and nephews.
A private celebration of life will be held this summer.  In lieu of flowers donations can be made to The Kevin Guest House 782 Ellicott St. Buffalo, NY 14203 or Roswell Park Cancer Center Elm St. Buffalo, NY 14203.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.


Harold Edward Leonard

$
0
0
Harold Edward Leonard of Skaneateles and Brookdale Senior Living, passed away peacefully and surrounded by family on Saturday, January 4, 2020 in Syracuse at the age of 91. He was pre-deceased by his wife of 59 years, Mary and his brother Lester. He is survived by his children, Jim (Patty), Amy and Dave (Susan) and grandchildren Elizabeth, Ellie, Katie and Tim.
Harold was born to Walker and Gladys Leonard of Skaneateles, where he lived most of his life. He graduated Skaneateles High School in 1946, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from the University of Rochester in 1950, and a Master’s degree from Syracuse University.
His introduction to teaching science and technology came during the Korean Conflict when he was selected to be an instructor in the Ground Radar School at Keesler AFB in Biloxi, Mississippi. After the service and a year teaching high school science, he transitioned to college level instruction. He joined the faculty of Cayuga Community College (Auburn Community College) in 1956 and served as a full-time professor for over 40 years.
His hobbies were as wide as his intellectual curiosity. Camping, sailing, gardening, radio-controlled model boats, bird-watching and music were all a vital part of his life. His favorite activity however was fishing, and he loved nothing more than being on the lake catching perch, bass, salmon and especially trout.  He served as a ranger naturalist for the National Parks Service in Glacier National Park for two summers, volunteered for the Boy Scouts, and led family camping expeditions every summer. He was an active member of both the Skaneateles and Auburn Community Bands, and could be found most summer Friday nights in the Gazebo at the end of the lake in the “horn” section. He was particularly proud of giving back to the community, and volunteered regularly at Baltimore Woods, the MOST in Syracuse and for the Skaneateles historical society at the Creamery.
Calling hours will be held at 1:00 pm on Saturday, January 11th at the Skaneateles Methodist Church, with a memorial service at 2:00 pm. Contributions in lieu of flowers can be made to Baltimore Woods Nature Center.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

 
 

Ethel Stewart Sheppard

$
0
0
Ethel Stewart Sheppard passed away surrounded by family on January 5, 2020 in Geneva at the age of 101 just shy of her 102nd birthday.  She was predeceased by her husband of 60 years, Kenneth; her brothers Richard and John, sister Eleanor Clark and grandson Jeffrey Sheppard.  She is survived by her daughter, Sandra Knitter (Carl) and son Stewart (Jeralyn), 10 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren and 5 great great-grandchildren.
She was born in Auburn to Clifford and Clara Stewart of Skaneateles where she lived most of her life.  She graduated from Skaneateles High School in 1937.  She was a life-long member of Skaneateles Methodist Church. After high school she worked in many restaurants in Skaneateles including The Krebs and Sherwood Inn.  She worked at Thomas' 5&10 Store.  She married and was a homemaker.  After her children left home she worked in the cafeteria at the school and also babysat for two families in Skaneateles.  She was an avid bird watcher and loved flowers.  In her younger years she grew African Violets for sale and had quite a business.  She loved her family and always enjoyed seeing all of her grandchildren. 
Calling hours will be held at 11:00am on Friday, January 10th at Robert D. Gray Funeral Home, Skaneateles with a memorial service to follow at 12n.  Ethel will be buried in Lake View Cemetery. Contributions in lieu of flowers can be made to Mottville Fire Department or SAVES.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.


Nancy Mains Ennulat

$
0
0
Nancy Mains Ennulat, 84, of Skaneateles, died peacefully on January 8, 2020 at Upstate University Hospital.
Born in Kingston, PA on October 26, 1935, she was the daughter of Charles V. Mains and Neva Gertrude Mains.  Mrs. Ennulat went to preparatory school at Wyoming Seminary, continued her education at Syracuse University and completed a Master of Science in Microbiology at Upstate Medical Center, where she worked as a Transplantation Researcher.
She married Joachim Ennulat August 4, 1956 in Germany and they have two sons David Ennulat of Phillipston, MA and Sean Ennulat of Jordan, NY.  They lived on a picturesque farm in Skaneateles, NY. Her hobbies included horseback riding, gardening, and sailing. She completed a lifetime dream with her husband of sailing from Cayuga Lake to the Bahamas.
She is survived by her loving and devoted husband as well as her two sons and five grandchildren Nathan Ennulat, Melissa Ennulat, Tase Lottermoser, Colin Ennulat, and Ashlee Ennulat. 
A celebration of life will be held this summer, date to be determined.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations in Mrs. Ennulat’s name may be made to The Wyoming Seminary 201 North Sprague Avenue, Kingston, PA 18704.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

John "Jake" Moore

$
0
0
John “Jake” Moore, 86, of Skaneateles, passed away peacefully on January 11, 2020. He was the son of the late, Leo and Mabel (Cox) Moore. Jake graduated from Cathedral High School in Syracuse, and the University of Massachusetts at Stockbridge.  He worked at the Skaneateles Country Club as a superintendent for over 40 years and was a member of the GCSAA for over 50 years.  Jake was a US Airforce veteran and a member of the American Legion Post #239.
He was survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Mary Tierney Moore; daughter, Kathleen Moore Bianchi; son, John K. (Shay) Moore of Richmond, VA; two grandsons, John “Jake” and David Bianchi; three sisters, Elaine Sexton, Dorothy (Mike) Cogswell, and Carol Shannon, and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Funeral services will be private. Donations in Jake’s memory may be made to SAVES or Michael Cogswell’s Scholarship Fund.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

Clara Elisabeth Coppolo

$
0
0
HUDSON, MA & SKANEATELES, NY

Clara Elisabeth Coppolo (nee Holbein), known as Betsy, entered heaven Monday, January 20, 2020 in Care Dimensions Hospice House, Lincoln, MA at the age of 92.
She leaves three daughters: Sandra A. Anderson ( Richard Fish) of Ridgeway, Ontario, Canada, Bernadine Perham of Hudson, MA and JoAnne Coppolo (Charly Ehlin) of Somerville, MA;  brother, Robert Alan Holbein of Auburn, NY; two grandchildren: Sean Perham (Julia) and Amber Dawn Upfold ( CJ Rowe); two great-grandchildren, Maya and Andrew Perham. Aunt ‘Bets’ will be fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews, and their families. Predeceased by her former husband John F. Coppolo (1927-2014); son John W. Coppolo (1952-1954); and grandson, Andrew J. Perham (1980-1997) and siblings, George Peter Holbein, Marion Almina Gilfus and William David Holbein.
Born in New York, NY on Nov. 19,1927, Betsy, her parents Walter and Viola (Gray) and four siblings moved to a number of locations in central New York until settling on the family farm in the Township of Owasco, NY.  At the age of 16, she graduated from Skaneateles High School, as Salutatorian of the Class of 1943. As a cadet nurse she attended Ellis Hospital School of Nursing in Schenectady, NY. Betsy was editor of their yearbook and 1947 representative at the International Congress of Nursing in Atlantic City. She graduated third in the class of 1948. While in her 30s, Betsy went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Health from Syracuse University, graduating Magna Cum Laude in 1962.
Betsy’s experiences as a registered nurse includes Obstetrics, hospital supervising Nurse and as a visiting Public Health Nurse. After Betsy completed her BS degree, she remained a New York State Public Health Director until she retired in 2003. Following retirement, Betsy relocated to Florida for several years and worked part-time as a Nursing Instructor in Dade County.  She later returned to New York, and continued to work part-time for the National follow up service doing phone interviews for discharged rehabilitation patients.  In 2014, she relocated once again, to Massachusetts to be closer to her family.
 
Betsy was a giving, optimistic person who always paid it forward by freely giving her time volunteering. As a 4H leader when her children needed a group leader, helping in a local soup kitchen and assisting refugees through her church. She was also an Overeaters Anonymous member, sponsor and mentor.  Betsy was an active and devout member of SS Peter and Paul Catholic church in Hamburg, NY where she was a Lector, Eucharistic minister and Health ministry member.
 Betsy’s bucket list included traveling and she was proud to have visited all 50 states and Scotland. These adventures, family history and events she carefully documented in labeled and dated binders.  Above all, Betsy adored her family. She never missed a birthday – children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews could always count on her, to remember them with a card each year.
 A Celebration of Life service will take place in Skaneateles, NY, in April.  For those who wish, the family suggests that memorial donations be made to the Disabled American Veterans, the Salvation Army, or Care Dimensions Hospice House, 75 Sylvan St., B-102, Danvers, MA 01923.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.


Henry William Leubner

$
0
0
Henry William Leubner of Skaneateles passed away on Monday, January 27 at home with his loving wife of 72 years, Ella Louise (Dye) by his side.
    Henry grew up in Marrietta, NY and was the oldest child of Edmund and Bertha Leubner. When his Dad died suddenly, Henry took over the family farm before he completed his education at Marcellus Central Schools.
    On August 14, 1948 Henry married the love of his life and soulmate Ella Louise Dye at Rose Hill Baptist Church. This event began the establishment of our huge family tree. Henry and Ella were blessed with 10 children, Henry Jr. (Rebecca Slater), Jane (Donald LaMay), Debra (Thomas Roe), Daniel (Terri Tucker), Mark (Carol Townsend), Melody (Thomas Notarpole), Sherry (John Kucher), Paul (Lisa Nelson), Jonathan (Kara Day), and Tom (Lisa Spearing). From these 10 families Henry and Ella have been blessed with 42 grandchildren, 48 great grandchildren and 3 great great grandchildren. So, what is a legacy? Papa put his mark on all our futures and they will be carried on for generations and generations to come.
     Henry worked his own farm on Benson Road until he bagan working at New Venture Gear, where he worked until he retired. While at NPG “Hank” was known for handing out Our Daily Bread devotionals to everyone he came into contact with, along with a lot of stinky cheese. Sharing his faith and the message of salvation wasn’t just a hobby, it was a deep passion he held. Dad was especially burdened for those who had not yet placed their trust and hearts with the lifesaving knowledge of Jesus.
     Dad’s passions besides his family, included spending time at his pond feeding the ducks and napping at his cabin. He was always in awe as he looked at God’s creation around him. He was marveled by how beautiful the screnery was whereever he went. He also collected 2-cylinder John Deere tractors, taught Sunday school, and he LOVED food, especially limberger cheese.
     Although Dad had this tough, rock solid exterior, he had a soft spot in his heart for ALL “his” babies (no matter their age).
     Dad enjoyed his daily excursions to destinations unknown to us all. You would hear, “going to the city” and he’d be gone for hours. He would then return so excited over his “sale” purchase – that he had driven 100 miles to get.
     One of my favorite parts of Dad was that no matter your name, he would always re-name you. These special nicknames have forever stuck and always make us laugh.
     We wanted to include some of Dad’s favorite bible verses, but after looking at his bible, there are more verses underlined than not. I truly believe I speak for all of us, it was an honor and a privilege to call him Dad and Papa. I can clearly hear Jesus saying, “Well done my good and faithful servant – welcome home”.
Funeral service will be held on Saturday, February 1st at 11am at Rose Hill Baptist Church. Calling hours will be on Friday from 4 to 7pm at Robert D. Gray Funeral Home, Skaneateles. Henry will be buried in Thorn Hill Cemetery. Lieu of flowers donations can be made to Rose Hill Baptist Church, 2609 Rose Hill Rd. Marietta, NY 13110.    
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

Rodney Miles Thomas

$
0
0
Rodney Miles Thomas, 74 of East Syracuse, passed away on January 29th, 2020 surround by his family at St. Joseph's Hospital, Syracuse, NY. Services are private. 

James Lee Van Nostrand

$
0
0
On Saturday, February 1, 2020 James Lee Van Nostrand, loving husband, father and grandfather, passed away at the age of 76 years old.
He leaves behind his wife of 47 years, Sara (Sepe) Van Nostrand; his daughter Beth (Van Nostrand) Caraccio and her husband Michael; his son Brad and his wife Patricia (Pabon) Van Nostrand and his beloved grandchildren, Dominick, Gianna, Gabriella and Scarlett, as well as his brother Gary, sister Lynne and many brother and sister in- laws, nieces and nephews.  Jim is predeceased in death by his father and mother.
Jim was born on January 22, 1944, the son of James and Harriet (Boyce) Van Nostrand, and raised in Interlaken, NY. Jim adored growing up in Interlaken and often reflected fondly on his many memories of his small-town upbringing with his siblings and friends on the shores of Cayuga Lake.
Jim graduated from SUNY Cortland with a degree in education and received his Master’s Degree from Syracuse University. He moved to Skaneateles in 1965 and fell in love with the small town and community like the one in which he grew up. Jim was an elementary school math and science teacher for Skaneateles schools for 19 years and then worked in sales and marketing for many years after that.
On August 12, 1972 Jim married Sara (Sepe) Van Nostrand and together they raised their children Beth and Brad.
Jim enjoyed playing the piano, listening to music and dancing in many Skan-e-antics productions over the years. He was an avid bridge player and loved to socialize with dear friends and tell jokes. Above all, he adored his wife, children and grandchildren and wanted to spend as much time with them as possible.  He felt such pride in their lives and successes.  When he became a grandparent, he found his new passion and purpose.
Jim was involved in a car accident in 2007 in which he suffered a traumatic brain injury, dramatically changing his life forever.  With the continued love and support of his family, he persevered for 13 long years, but eventually time took its toll on his body and mind, and he finally found the peace and freedom he so deserved.
A mass for Jim will be held on Saturday, February 8th at 10:00 am at St. Mary’s of the Lake Church, Skaneateles, followed by a private burial and then a gathering for family and friends.
In memory of Jim’s love of education, Skaneateles and his grandchildren, any donations can be made to: The Skaneateles Education Foundation www.skanedfoundation.org
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

 

Joseph P. Brillo

$
0
0
Joseph P. Brillo, 84, of Skaneateles passed away peacefully on February 11, 2020. He was born in Syracuse and graduated from CBA where he was a proud member of the 1951 Championship Football Team.  Joe attended Bolles Academy in FL and SUNY Cortland. He came back to Skaneateles and started his successful excavating and septic company that he owned and operated for 51 years before retiring.  Joe was an avid outdoorsman, who enjoyed snowmobiling, hunting and collecting antique cars.
Joe was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Bella Brillo, siblings, George, Caroline, Georgia, and Mary.  He is survived by his children; Peter, Joseph (Barbara), and Eric (Theresa), his three beloved grandsons; Jacob, Joshua, and Joey, and his former wife, Dolores Brillo. Following Joe’s wishes, his services were private.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Joe’s memory may be made to the CNY Alzheimer's Association; 441 W. Kirkpatrick St, Syracuse, NY 13204.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

James J. O'Connell

$
0
0
O’CONNELL, JAMES J. (“Jim”) died peacefully at home in the town of Spafford, on the east side of Skaneateles Lake, in the presence of his loving wife and family on Thursday, February 13th at the age of 88.  Jim was born in Troy, NY, on February 25, 1931, the son of William J. and Elizabeth (Walsh) O’Connell.  He was raised across the Hudson River in Watervliet, graduating from St. Patrick’s School in 1944 and from Catholic Central High School in Troy in 1948.  Jim then prepared for the priesthood in seminaries in Rochester and was ordained a priest of the Diocese of Syracuse in February 1956.
As a priest Jim served as Assistant Pastor of St. Lucy’s Church, Syracuse (1956-63), then on the faculty of a brand-new Rome (N.Y.) Catholic High School, first as Guidance Director (1963-67), then as Principal (1967-71).  He was a priest in residence at St. Peter’s Church in Rome, N.Y. (1963-66) and was part-time pastor of St. Mary’s, Florence, and St. Paul’s, Redfield (1966-1971).  Jim was founding pastor of Pope John XXIII Church in Liverpool, a/k/a St. John’s Church, oversaw construction of the rectory (1971), church (1973), and rel. ed. addition (1979), while parish membership grew from around 240 families in 1971 to over 1,400 families in 1984.  In the 1970’s Jim was active in several diocesan, statewide and national associations of priests, including one term (1976-78) representing priests of New York and New England on the (mainly lay) U.S. Catholic Bishops Advisory Council.  Jim resigned from active ministry in January 1984 in order to marry.
Jim married Sharon K. Alexander in August, 1984.  He completed legal studies at Syracuse University College of Law in May, 1985, and was admitted to practice law in February 1986.  Jim’s entire legal career (1985-2020) was spent in the law office led by his friend Dennis G. O’Hara, known in 1986 as O’Hara, Felice: & Crough, later as O’Hara, O’Connell & Ciotoli.  Jim practiced civil law, particularly Education Law, real estate purchases and sales, estate planning and estate administration, tax assessment matters, and municipal finance.  He retired from the practice of law in 2020.
Jim was a Democratic activist from the age of 15.  He served as CoChair or Vice Chair of CNY campaigns of Governor Carey in 1978, Ted Kennedy in 1980 and Mario Cuomo in 1982.  From 1988 to 2018 he served many terms on the NYS Democratic Committee and, in 2016-18, on its Executive Committee.  In 2018 the Onondaga County Democratic Committee honored Jim with a lifetime achievement award.
Jim is survived by his wife Sharon K. O’Connell, their sons, James A., of Skaneateles, and Daniel J. of Rochester, his sister, Helen M. (George) Lettko, of Troy, twenty nieces and nephews (9 Wilsons in Albany, 6 Holtons in Watervliet, and 5 Lettkos in Troy) and numerous other relatives and friends.  He was predeceased by his parents and by two of his sisters, Betty (Fred) Wilson and Mary (Tom) Holton.
The family will welcome relatives and friends for calling hours from 10:30 A.M. to 12:00 noon on Saturday, February 22nd at St. Mary’s of the Lake Church, 81 Jordan St., Skaneateles, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 12:00 noon.  A spring burial at St. Mary’s Cemetery at the convenience of the family. No flowers please.  Memorial donations, if any, may be directed to Friends of St. Mary’s Florence (a 501c3 corp.), Community Bank, 41 Harden Blvd., Camden, NY 13316.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.


Valdemar M. Lubieniecki

$
0
0
Valdemar M. Lubieniecki, 91 of Skaneateles passed away at Auburn Community Hospital. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, Feb. 27th at 10am at St. Mary’s of the lake church, Skaneateles.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.


Viewing all 973 articles
Browse latest View live