Perry T. Masters 02/27/2023

 

 

Perry T. Masters

Perry T. Masters, 52, of Ogdensburg, died on February 27, 2023.  Services are private. A graveside service with military honors will be May 9, 2024 at the Old DeKalb Cemetery, 10:30 am. Perry is survived by his siblings, Kelly Mandigo of Canton, Linda and her husband Ed Newcombe of Rensselaer Falls, Diane and her husband Tom Pike of Ogdensburg, Brian Masters of Webster, Lyle Masters II of DeKalb, his stepmother Nancy Masters, an Uncle Ken Masters, his good friend Lee Larby, several nieces and nephews. He was born on March 18,1970, in Gouverneur, the son of the late, Lyle Masters and Vicky Morse. Perry graduated from Heuvelton Central School in 1989, he then enlisted in the Army.  He was in the active military till 1995, when he then went into the reserves. He worked as a logger for Sanford Inc. in Colton.  He was an active member of the VFW Post 2936 in Ogdensburg, the A.D. Charbonneau Council 258 Knights of Columbus in Ogdensburg, AMVETS Post 19 in Ogdensburg and AMVETS Post 1997 in Heuvelton.  Perry loved to collect Elvis’s memorabilia and impersonate Elvis, talking to people on the phone, drawing and singing karaoke.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society, the Alzheimer’s Association or the Diabetes Association. 

Martha H. Reynolds 02/26/2023

 

Martha H. Reynolds

Martha H. Reynolds, 86, of DeKalb Junction, died on February 26, 2023, at United Helpers Canton Nursing Home.  There will be calling hours at the funeral home, Thursday, March 9, 2023, 11am – 1 PM. The funeral service will be at 1PM, Pastor Martha Helmer officiating, burial will follow in Union Cemetery. Martha is survived by her sons, William D. and his wife Shawna Reynolds of Clarkston, Michigan, Robert T. Reynolds of Shelton, Connecticut, her sisters, Lenore Bovay of DeKalb Junction, Patricia and her husband Sanford Bacon of DeKalb Junction, 2 grandchildren, Jedidiah Reynolds, Wyatt Reynolds, several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her sister Maryann Frisco. She was born on September 30, 1936, in Ogdensburg, the daughter of the late, Elmer and Dorothy Mattison Elsey. Martha graduated from Hermon DeKalb Central School in 1953, then continued her education at the Ogdensburg Business School graduating in 1954. She married William A. Reynolds III on September 30, 1956 at the DeKalb Junction United Methodist Church with the Reverend Waters officiating, William predeceased her on May 25, 2001. Martha last worked in the credit office at Sears in Livonia, Michigan.  She was an active member of the DeKalb Junction United Methodist Church, a member of the DeKalb Historical Association and a former member of the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce, holding the office of Vice President for many years.  Martha loved to square dance, sew, act, play the guitar, sing in the church choir, have friends to her home for dinner and parties.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the DeKalb Junction United Methodist Church, 4302 USH 11, DeKalb Junction, NY, 13630. Martha’s family would like to thank the staff at United Helpers for the wonderful care Martha received at the nursing home. 

Viola C. Gilson 02/20/2023

 

Viola C. Gilson

Viola C. Gilson, 92, of DeKalb Junction, died on February 20, 2023, at Canton Potsdam Hospital.  There will be calling hours at the funeral home, Wednesday, February 22, 2023, 11am – 1 PM. The funeral service will be at 1PM, Pastor Stephen Lambeth officiating, burial will follow in Old DeKalb Cemetery. Viola is survived by her son Gary and his wife Bonnie Gilson of Russell, daughters, Susazan Williams of Russell, and Carol and her husband Terry McKendree of DeKalb Junction, her brother Maynard and his wife Jean Finley of Ogdensburg, 18 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, 2 great great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brothers, Robert Finley, Gerald Finley, Claude Finley, sisters, Doris Johnston, Eva McDonald, Ella Finley and Dorothy Finley. She was born on April 13, 1930, in the Town of Oswegatchie, the daughter of the late, Earl and Irene Durham Finley. Viola married Ralph F. Gilson on December 30,1949 at the Ogdensburg Pilgrim Holiness Church, the Reverend Bernard Barton officiating, he predeceased her on October 27, 2014.  She was a homemaker and foster mother to many. Viola was a member of the Pilgrim Holiness Church of Ogdensburg and Harrisville.  She loved being a homemaker, reading, baking, cooking and camping in her Winnebago.  Contributions can be made to the Pilgrim Holiness Church Harrisville at 14374 Maple Street, Harrisville, New York 13648. 

Marley James Delorme 02/13/2023

 

Marley James Delorme

Marley James Delorme, 16 days old, of Canton, died on February 13, 2023, at his home. There will be no services.  Marley is survived by his parents, Hudson Tice and Caleb Delorme of Canton, his brother, Marcus Delorme, maternal grandmother, Donielle DeBault of Gouverneur, paternal grandparents, Edith Bullock and Eugene Delorme, of DeKalb Junction, great paternal grandparents, Joyce and Ken Delorme, of DeKalb Junction, his Aunt Gizzelle Jackson of Gouverneur. He was born on January 28, 2023, in Potsdam.  Marley was a happy boy, always laughing and smiling.  He loved being with his Mom, Dad, Marcus and his whole family.  They will miss him always.  Contributions can be made to the charity of one’s choice. 

Barbara J. (Murdock) Hand 01/16/2023

Barbara Janet (Murdock) Hand

 

Barbara Janet (Murdock) Hand, passed away on Monday, January 16th, 2023 at Lewis County General Hospital after a long illness.

A private family burial will be at the Hermon Cemetery, Hermon, New York.  On June 7th, 2023, from 2 -5 PM, there will a “Celebration of Life” at Serendipity, 9 Williams Street, Gouverneur, New York.

Barbara was born on Friday, August 13th, 1937 at home in Hammond, NY.   She was the daughter of Joseph Hillard and Barbara Beatrice (Brotherston) Murdock.  She jokingly would say “Friday the 13th was the luckiest day of my life!”

She was predeceased by her son; Robert Hand, brothers; Robert, Stewart, Lyle, William and Ernest Murdock, sisters; Ruby (Murdock) Sterling and Roberta Murdock her infant sister; and her parents.

She attended a “One Room” Schoolhouse in the countryside of DePeyster, New York and later attended Heuvelton Central High School.  She married Donald Hand on June 14th, 1957 at the Heuvelton Methodist Church.

During her career, she was a Dairy Farmer, Waitress at the Grandview Restaurant in Ogdensburg, New York, a Baker at St. Lawrence University and Co-Owner of a Trucking Business.  After retirement, she went back to work at Martin’s Pretzels as a Dough and Pretzel Maker.  She often talked proudly about making and packing a pretzel order for Bill Clinton, the President of United States.  Another proud moment was when she bought her first brand, new car which was a 1977 Monte Carlo by herself.  She always mentioned how much she loved the swivel seats and great heater in the winter.

Barb not only loved family, but also had a big heart that loved others as well.  She was mindful of the needs of others.  Often, she helped many elderly in the community with groceries shopping, cleaning and yard work not expecting or accepting any renumeration.  She also moved in with and cared for her terminally ill mother-in-law until her death.  Another love was cooking and gardening.  Her “green thumb” grew beautiful flowers, plants, her precious weeping willow tree outside her kitchen window and vegetable gardens.   Baking was her gift as well.  Her homemade bread, donuts and cinnamon rolls were a sought after commodity.  She shared that they were all Scottish recipes passed down to her.

Barb was a “First Generation American”, yet was proud of her Canadian, Irish and Scottish Heritage.  She was a descendant of two great Scottish Clans which are Clan Stewart and Clan Moffat.  Her ancestor, Adam Moffat fought in the First War of Scottish Independence with King Robert the Bruce and survived.  Out-numbered almost 2:1 with the odd stacked against them, they won The Battle of Bannockburn against English forces.  This is a landmark battle in Scottish History.

This heritage showed in Barb with her character, perseverance, bravery and loyalty to family, friends and loved ones.  She was positive, fearless and strong both mentally and physically.  She also was a dreamer and self-taught Artist.  She sketched people, animals and nature while always encouraging her children to be creative, draw and respect nature.

She leaves us passing down all of her beautiful qualities to her children and grandchildren.  Her message to us all was to “follow your dreams no matter what others think or say”.    She will be dearly missed, but her dreaming, art, love of nature, storytelling and love of music live through all she touched while she was here with us.

Barb is survived by her husband of 65 years, Donald Hand, Philadelphia, New York; sister, Luella (Murdock) Robinson, Morristown, New York; sister-in laws; Carol Berkey, Peck, Idaho- Jean Hand, Reno, Nevada-Beatrice Murdock, Rensselaer Falls, New York; daughter, Julie (Hand) Brooks, Syracuse, New York; daughter and son-in law, Donna (Hand) and Ron Wiley, LaFargeville, New York; granddaughter, Olivia Brooks, Syracuse, New York; grandsons, Ryan Brooks, Los Angeles, California-Logan Hand, Antwerp, New York and Anthony (Holly) Wiley, Cleveland, North Carolina; great granddaughter Eleanor Wiley; as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, Donations can be made to your local S.P.C.A or Animal Shelter as well as Renewal House, Canton, NY in remembrance of Janet Stewart Brotherston (Barbara’s Grandmother).

 

Martha D. Graves 01/09/2023

Martha D. Graves

Martha D. Graves, 91, of Massena and formerly of Hannawa Falls, died on January 9, 2023, at Massena Rehabilitation and Nursing Center.  Martha was a generous donation to science. She will be buried at a later date a Stark Cemetery, South Colton, New York. Martha is survived by her son Gregory Graves of Brasher Falls, several grandchildren, nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her son Kurt Graves. She was born on January 18, 1931, in Potsdam, the daughter of the late, Lynn G. and Iva E. Richie Dixson. She graduated from Potsdam High School.  Martha married Carmen Graves, he predeceased her on May 24, 2018.  She was a telephone operator for AT&T until her retirement in 1988. Martha was called the “Cookie Lady” she loved giving others cookies and gifts. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Potsdam Humane Association, Hannawa Falls Fire Department or the Potsdam Rescue Squad.

Glenn W. Kingrey 12/24/2022

Glenn W. Kingrey

Glenn W. Kingrey, 60, of Hermon, died, December 24, 2022, at Glens Falls Hospital surrounded by his family. There will a private family service at a later date.  Glenn is survived by his brothers, Jasper Kingrey of Hermon, John and his wife Lori Kingrey of Hermon, nephews, John and his wife Vicky Kingrey, Thomas Kingrey, Jacob and his wife Amber Kingrey, a niece, Crystal and her husband Sean Sterling. He was born on January 21, 1962, in El Campo, Texas, the son of the late Clarence and Marion Gottschald Kingrey.  He graduated from Pettus High School in Texas.   He was employed as a customer service representative at Kinney’s Drugs in Canton.  Glenn loved spending time with his family and enjoyed fishing, hunting, and scratch off tickets.  Contributions in lieu of flowers can be made to Amanda’s House, 22 Henry Street, Glens Falls, NY 12801.

John H. Conklin 12/20/2022

John H. Conklin

John H. Conklin, 90, of Canton, passed away on December 20, 2022, at his home while in the loving care of his family. His family will hold a private service in his honor. Burial will be in Jerusalem Cemetery.

John was born on June 11, 1932, in Morley, to the late John and Florence (Trombley) Conklin. He was the second oldest of 11 children. He attended Canton Central School until he reached the 10th grade. At that time, he left school to help his father run the family’s farm.

He joined the Army in 1953 and served stateside during the Korean War, primarily in Louisiana and Kansas. He was honorably discharged in 1955 at the rank of corporal. In recognition of his service, he was awarded, and proudly accepted, his high school diploma in 2019 at the age of 87.

John worked at various jobs during his career, including Mace’s Auto Shop, Martin’s Beer Plant, and the United States Post Office. He retired from Corning Inc. in 1993 after 27 years of service as a furnace technician. Every job he did was met with hard work and dedication.

He married Judy Hawn at the Gouverneur United Methodist Church on March 18, 1961. He affectionately referred to her as his “Elizabeth Taylor” and was so thankful for the care she gave him over their 61 years of marriage.

John is survived by his wife, Judy, sons John (Dawn) Conklin and Joe (Kathy) Conklin, and a daughter, Michele (Jeff) Hunt, all of Canton. Also surviving him are his seven grandchildren, Kate (Dillon) Huntley, Nikki (Joe) Trimm, Erin (Joe) DiTullio, Tyler (Erin) Hunt, Joe (Brigette) Conklin, Colleen Conklin, and Meghan Conklin, as well as a step-grandson, Ryan Grimshaw, and 11 great-grandchildren. His brothers James (Nancy) Conklin, Francis (Barbara) Conklin, Richard Conklin, and Gary (Brenda) Conklin also survive him.

He was predeceased by his sisters, Shirley Elliott, Katherine Karpowich, Beverly O’Brien, Jean Gemmill, Theresa Faucher, and Donna Hosley.

John enjoyed going to garage sales, gardening, fishing, hunting, making puzzles, and traveling to the ocean for family vacations. He liked to go out for rides in his truck and visit with old friends. His favorite thing of all was being “Bompy” to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His family was everything to him and he never failed to let others know how proud he was of his family. He loved to tell stories and make people laugh with his jokes.

 In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

 

Ricky Lin Meilleur 11/11/2022

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ricky Lin Meilleur

Ricky Lin Meilleur, 68, of Russell, New York, passed away unexpectedly on November 11th, 2022.Born on January 22nd, 1954 in Gouverneur to Eleanor Morrissey Meilleur and Lemond L. Meilleur. Rick had one sibling, a sister, Sharon Meilleur who predeceased him. Rick grew up in Malone, where he attended Franklin Academy School. He entered the Army at 18 and served during the Vietnam era. He served two years active duty and continued his service in the Army reserves for ten years upon his return. Rick worked at J& L Steel, and then the Town of Russell Highway Department for nine and half years.  After twenty plus years working for various construction companies, Rick retired from the operating engineers, Local 545! He married Ellen L. Scott of Russell, New York, on August 31, 1974. Married for 48 years, together they raised three children; Richard L. Meilleur (Katherine) of Russell, Gregory J. Meilleur (Jennifer) of Gouverneur and Emily L. Royce (Codey) of North Carolina.  A self-taught musician, Rick enjoyed playing his guitar and singing for the residents at many local nursing homes. An outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting, riding his Side X Side and cutting wood!  Rick is survived by his loving wife and children. A niece, Melissa Catton and her husband Brad and their four children. Many grandchildren and great grandchildren.  As per his wishes, there will be no calling hours or services.  A Celebration of Life will be held on November 20, 2022 at the home of Rick and Ellen from 12 – 4 PM at 16 Mill Street, Russell. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Maplewood Campus and Rehabilitation Center, Canton, New York

James E. Mandigo 10/14/2022

James E. Mandigo

James E. Mandigo, 31, of Canton and Vermont, died on October 14, 2022, at Canton Potsdam Hospital. Services will be private. There will be a graveside service on May 22, 2024 at 11:30 am at the Cook’s Corner Cemetery in Pierrepont.  James is survived by his wife, Kelly, his sons, Tyron Mandigo and Braiden, his mother Ellen Mandigo of Vermont, a brother, Michael Mandigo, of Vermont, sisters, Amanda Mandigo and Dale Ashlaw of Canton, Angel Blevins of Vermont, best friend Timothy Marckres of Vermont, Gabriel and Noah Marckres, several nieces and nephews.  James was born on October 10,1991 in Ogdensburg to Ellen Dissotell Mandigo and the late Gary Mandigo. He married Kelly Sanford on February 3, 2009 in Vermont. He was the owner of Mandigo Inc. contractors out of Vermont and was a home health aide for Committed of Canton.  James loved spending time with his family and enjoyed working on cars, building things, playing video games and helping others. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Autism Speaks or the American Lung Association.