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Obituaries

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.

Charlotte R. Livingston 10/05/2022

Charlotte R. Livingston

Charlotte R. Livingston, 78, of DeKalb Junction, died on October 5, 2022, at Claxton Hepburn Medical Center. There will be a graveside service on October 14, 2022, at Pine Hill Cemetery, Eel Weir, 12:00 PM for Charlotte and Claude.  Charlotte is survived by her daughters, Lori and her husband Dan Gilbert of Heuvelton, Lisa Bishop of Fowler, siblings, Lyndon and his wife Sally Fuller, Lyle Fuller, Ralph and his wife Kathy Fuller, Donald and his wife Christine Fuller, Phyllis Tripp, Janice and her husband Roger Refici, Glenda Bickford, all of Fowler, John and his wife Kathie Fuller of Florida, grandchildren Eugene Bishop and his fiancé Jessica Hentz, Connor and his wife Brooke Bishop, great grandchild, Averie Bishop, several nieces and nephews.  She was predeceased by a brother, Vernon Fuller, and a son in law, Lyle Bishop. Charlotte was born on October 30,1943 in Gouverneur to the late, John and Ruth Stevens Fuller. She graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1962.  Charlotte married Claude Livingston on October 26, 1962 at the Gouverneur Methodist Church, Reverend Stanley Brown officiating, he died on December 23, 2014. She was an office clerk at N.T. Grants, a sales clerk at B.O. Kinney’s, a department manager at Britts, an office clerk at Gouverneur Talc Co. Inc., as a waitress and cook at Bob’s Diner, and lastly at Tripp Fuel Company as an office clerk, until she retired. Charlotte was a member of the Hermon-DeKalb Craft Club.  She loved spending time with her family and enjoyed her camp, crafting, gardening and baking. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society.

Sharon RW Norback 09/23/2022

Sharon RW Norback

Sharon RW Norback, 77, of Russell, died on September 23, 2022, at her home. Sharon was a generous donation to science. She is survived by her sons Eric Norback of Hermon, David and his wife Samantha Norback of Russell, daughters, Kristin and her husband David Jackson of Virginia, Candace and her husband David Mannel of Connecticut, and seven grandchildren.  Sharon was born on January 27,1945 in Waterbury, Connecticut to the late, Frank Walter and Ruth Elizabeth Beardsley Wilson. She was a certified nursing assistant and job coach for the developmental and physically challenged at Meriden Wallingford Society for the Handicapped Inc. in Wallingford, Connecticut.  Sharon was a member and treasurer of the Southington Genealogical Society in Southington, Connecticut In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Amazing Grace Fellowship, 967 Yale Avenue, Wallingford, Connecticut, 06492.

Russell E. Snyder 09/24/2022

Russell E. Snyder

Russell E. Snyder, 88, of Canton, died on September 24, 2022. Services are private and burial will be in Fairview Cemetery, Canton. Russell is survived by his wife Sally, sons, David Storozow of South Carolina, James Storozow of Lafargeville, a daughter Mary “Colleen” and her husband Donald “Duck” Brown of DeKalb Junction, grandchildren, Dan and his wife Kyleigh Storozow, Amy Storozow, Jill and her husband Kirk Davis, Linda Shaw, and 8 great grandchildren.  Russell was born on March 23, 1934 in Johnson City, New York. He graduated from Vestal Central School. He served his country in the Army during the Korean War.  Russell married Sally Streevy on December 27, 1967 in Endicott, New York.  He was a heavy equipment operator, he owned and operated Payne and Snyder Construction in Broome, NY. He enjoyed puttering around the house, hunting and fishing. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Disabled American Veterans.

Eugenia Jusiak 09/12/2022

Eugenia Jusiak

Eugenia Jusiak, 101, of Canton, formerly of Buffalo, died, September 12, 2022, at her daughter’s home, surrounded by her loving daughter and son-in-law who took wonderful care of her. There will be calling hours on Sunday, September 18, 2-5 PM at the Barron-Miller Funeral Home at 3025 William Street, Cheektowaga, New York, 14227.  A funeral mass will be on Monday, September 19, 10 am at the Resurrection Roman Catholic Church, 103 Como Park, Blvd., Buffalo, New York.  Jean is survived her sons, Robert Jusiak (the late Maryann) of Punta Gorda, Florida, Leonard and his wife Betty Ann of Lancaster, NY, her daughter, Alexandra and her husband Gary Bolis of Canton, daughter-in-law’s, Chris Jusiak, Boston, NY, and Cynthia Garra of Orchard Park, NY, grandchildren, Joel, Jodi, Dana, Bobbi Ann, Derik, Jeff, Matthew, Brian, Amy and Brendan, 11 great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews.  She was predeceased by her sons, Thomas Jusiak, Kenneth Jusiak, grandson Christopher Bolis, siblings, Casey, Tony, Steve and Teddy Glogowski, Emily Piskorz, Rose Domogala, and Alice Pyszczynski.  Eugenia was born on October 29,1920, in Buffalo, NY, the daughter of the late, Walter and Mary Jezuit Glogowski.  She married William Jusiak on September14,1940 at the Precious Blood R.C. Church, Buffalo, NY, he died on August 8, 1995.  She was a loving and caring, wife and mother which was her career. Jean was a parishioner of the Resurrection Church and St. Mary’s Church, Canton, NY.  She was a member of the Altar Aid Society, Cochair of the Annual Lawn Fete, as well as a booth Chairman.  She loved to crochet, color, play cards and go to the casino.  Her family lovingly called her “Sarge”.  She was the pillar of her family.  In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to the William Jusiak Memorial Fund which was founded by her son Tom in honor of her husband William.  The address is William Jusiak Memorial Fund, c/o Christine Jusiak, 6811 Liebler Road, Boston, New York, 14025 or Hospice and Palliative Care of St. Lawrence Valley.