Mary Catherine “Cal” Fletcher
Mary Catherine Fletcher, “Cal” to most people, went home to the Lord on July 13, 2023.
She was born August 4,1929 to Roderick and Anne (Kavanagh) McCauley.
Cal attended school at Holy Ghost Academy, graduating Valedictorian of her class. She worked for a few years for AT&T before marrying Earl Fletcher in 1948. Together they raised five children.
Life with Earl was an adventure. Together they weathered the ups and the downs of life, celebrating 65 years together until his passing in April 2014.
Cal was a lifelong member of St. Alphonsus Church, where she was a money counter and was very active in the Catholic Daughters for over 60 years.
She was not a housewife, she was a home-maker and welcomed friends and relatives at any time.
Cal was an excellent knitter and baker-well known for her chocolate chip cookies. Her family always made a beeline to the cupboard looking for the Tupperware container specifically designated for her famous chocolate chip cookies. Everyone wanted to make sure they got their fair share.
She was a cook, cleaner, chauffeur, basketball, baseball, soccer, and hockey cheerleader and whatever else her family needed. Cal was a true sports fan. She enjoyed watching the pros play as well as all of her grandchildren. However, if anyone in the family was ever injured her remedy before going to the doctor was to “soak it”. That remains a joke in the family to this day. As her children left home, she started bowling and with Earl’s sponsorship, she enjoyed bowling with the ladies of Fletcher’s Scrappers for many years. You may also have had the pleasure of running into Cal at Ray’s Liquor Store where she worked for a time to fill those empty nest years.
One of her biggest joys was taking vacations with her family in the summer. She and Earl would rent a cabin in Lake George, where her children and grandchildren would join them to make wonderful memories. Often included was her niece Michelle (Bourbeau) Stevens, who was more like a daughter to Cal than a niece, along with her family.
She is survived by three of her children, Karen (John) Walker, Jerry (Tracy) and Don (Kelley) along with her six grandchildren: Samantha Walker, Josh and Elliott Fletcher, and Maeve, Peyton, and Quinn Fletcher. Also surviving are her in-laws Mary (Fletcher) Chapman and James Fletcher as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
She was predeceased by her husband Earl, sons Jeff and John and her siblings: Helen Brown, Phyllis Boushie, Theresa Brunette, Jean Bourbeau, Francis McCauley, and Estelle McMillian.
The family would like to express a huge thank you to all the wonderful caregivers that have taken care of our mother over the years. Because of all of you, she was able to stay in her beloved home until the end. Our hearts are filled with gratitude.
Calling hours will be held from 10a.m. to noon today (Wednesday, July 19, 2023) at the Frary Funeral Home, 24 Cliff Ave., Tupper Lake. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:30p.m. today (Wednesday, July 19, 2023) at St. Alphonsus Church, 48 Wawbeek Ave, Tupper Lake. Burial will take place immediately after at St. Alphonsus Cemetery.
Ricky Francis Arnold
Ricky Francis Arnold, 66, of Morrisonville, N.Y. was set free on July 4, 2023. Born on February 16, 1957 in Tupper Lake, Rickey was the son of Francis and Pearl S. Arnold.
He retired from Jefford’s Steel as a steel fabrication operator.
Ricky joyfully served in the church van and food rescue ministries at First Assembly of God Plattsburgh.
He was a member of the Chazy Lions Club where you’d find him at the french fry station during “Old Home Days,” and a volunteer firefighter at Morrisonville Fire Station. As a young man he worked on the Adirondack Railroad and played on the infamous “ELITE” softball team of Tupper Lake.
Ricky was a generous giver, seen by his 11 gallon lifetime donation to the CVPH Blood Center. His final donation was to Science Care Research.
He is survived by his loving wife Denise Y. Arnold, two sons, Kyle and Matthew Arnold, sister Alanna (Gifford) Fox, Donna (Steve) Hillman, Paula (Kit) Arnold-Baum, nieces, Rebekka Paige, and Rachel Hillman.
He was preceded in death by his parents and first wife, Rene Arnold.
Ricky’s Celebration of Life will be on Friday, August 4 at 3p.m. at First Assembly of God Plattsburgh, NY. Pastor James Miller officiating.
Donations in Ricky’s honor can be made to compassion.com.
Death Notice: Tai McLear
Word has been received on the passing of Tai McLear of Ocala Florida, formerly of Tupper Lake. Tai passed away on July 1, 2023 at the age of 24.
Funeral services will be held on August 17, at St. Alphonsus Church at 11a.m.
A full obituary will appear in the August 9 edition of the Tupper Lake Free Press.
Ruth “Midge” LaBrie
On July 3, 2023, Mrs. Ruth “Midge” LaBrie, the heart and soul of the LaBrie family, passed away peacefully in her own bedroom shortly after being visited by members of her immediate family, close personal friends and receiving her last rights. She was the last of the original “Stetson Road Gang’s” mothers.
Midge was born on September 3, 1937, the daughter of George and Lauretta McGillis, who had a total of five children. Midge was predeceased by one brother, Carl “Skipper” McGillis, and one sister, Theresa Emery. She is survived by two sisters, Janice Pryor and Thelma “Dunc” Lawlor.
In her youth, Midge was a bit of a tomboy; she loved doing outdoor activities, which included fishing, hiking, mountain climbing, picnics and swimming, with her best buddy Lonnie Gokey and members of the Gokey Family.
Midge attended Tupper Lake High School and on November 5, 1955, she married Philip J. “Chappy” LaBrie. It was a marriage that would last 55 years, until Chap’s passing on September 25, 2010. They had two children, one daughter, Christal, and one son, Philip.
On July 24, 1976 Christal married Craig D. Russell, and on July 8, 1981, Matthew Craig Russell was born, Midge’s first grandchild, and oh how she loved that kid. Throughout his school years, Matt spent his summer vacations here in Tupper Lake with the LaBrie family, and those years were among the happiest times of Midge’s life.
On September 19, 2008, Matt married Kelsi Von Bargon, and on June 14, 2017, MaKenna Grace Russell was born, becoming Midge’s first great grandchild, and, oh how she loved it when MaKenna introduced her to other people as My GREAT Grandma! She was over the moon on that one.
On December 10, 2022,Luke Owen Russell was born, making Midge a great grandmother for the second time. Throughout her married life, Midge did everything from being a great mom, to being a great homemaker, to being a great bookkeeper which helped keep the family business, Phil’s Radio & TV, smoothly running for over 50 years, and finally to being a great caregiver to Chappy, who suffered from Alzheimer’s disease in the last years of his life. Her efforts were nothing short of superhuman.
In her later years, Midge loved to go to the Casino. Chap would always tell her she couldn’t go but Midge went anyway. She was also very lucky; she won many more times than she lost.
Also, in those later years, she enjoyed her birthday a lot more as that date indicated her kids were going back to school soon. She really liked that. And she loved her two cats, Winkie and Misty. In addition to members of her immediate family, Midge is also survived by a number of nieces and nephews, and their children.
In the end, much like Chappy, Midge really did have a wonderful life and really did live happily ever
after.
Calling hours for Midge will be on Thursday July 13, 2023 from 4 to 6p.m. at the Frary Funeral Home in Tupper Lake. Mass for Midge will be held at St. Alphonsus church, on Friday, July 14, 2023 at 11a.m. Burial will follow immediately after mass, after which there will be a reception held at the VFW Post 3120, located at 1849 State Rte 3 in Tupper Lake.
In lieu of flowers, please consider sending donations to High Peaks Hospice, as when things were at the darkest times, Hospice brought in the light and provided much needed guidance and support. Their efforts will never be forgotten.
Regina Waite Platt, 68
Regina Waite Platt “Gina,” age 68, passed away on July 8,2023 while under the care of the North Country Nursing and Rehabilitation Center of Massena, N.Y., with her sister Leslie and husband Richard by her side. All funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Frary Funeral Home of Ogdensburg. Calling hours were held on Tuesday July 11, 2023 from 3p.m. to 6p.m. at the Frary Funeral Home at 515 Caroline Street Ogdensburg. There will be a funeral service today, Wednesday, July 12, 2023, at 2p.m. with the Rev. Carolyn J. Bartkus officiating at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 500 Caroline Street, Ogdensburg. Immediately following there will be a luncheon at the Methodist Church Hall at 627 Caroline Street Ogdensburg. A burial service for family and close friends will take place on Thursday July 13 at St. Alphonsus cemetery in Tupper Lake.
Gina was born early in the morning of July 4, 1955. She always believed that the fireworks were in celebration of “her” birthday! Growing up in Tupper Lake, Gina was nurtured by the loving warmth and support from her parents, Fay and William Waite, maternal grandparents Reginald and Ellison Hawkins and her younger sisters Holly and Leslie. In addition, Gina had the companionship of many good friends from “the neighborhood.”
From an early age Gina knew that she wanted to be a teacher like her mother and grandmother. Possessing a passion for learning, reading, theatre, performing arts, and travel, Gina graduated from Tupper Lake High School in 1973.
She continued her formal education by earning a bachelors degree in education from SUNY Oswego, a masters degree in reading education from SUNY Potsdam and finally a Masters Degree in Library Science from SUNY Albany. Gina’s career as an educator spanned more than 33 years. During that time, she taught, English, theatre, reading and finally library science to High School students at Ogdensburg Free Academy.
Gina envisioned her role as an educator as extending far past the traditional classroom. A great deal of Gina’s passion for learning and exploring was invested in the Odyssey of the Mind program. With great passion and determination Gina coached teams of High School students that reached the level of world championship competition. Gina always felt a responsibility as an educator to motivate, inspire and impart the skills and knowledge that “her kids” would need in order to find their way in the world as they grew into adulthood.
Gina’s life was filled with many passions. She loved the theatre, literature, travel, gourmet cooking, family genealogy and sewing crafts.
Foremost among her passions was the theatre arts. Beginning in High School and continuing for the rest of her life, Gina performed and participated in many school and community theatre productions. She was never happier than when she was rehearsing for a role in a production or simply sitting in a Broadway theatre immersed in a drama.
When reflecting on her many roles and productions, the sentimental favorite was playing Queen Aggravain in “Once Upon A Mattress” which tells the story of the Princess and the pea. Each year when Gina was asked what she would like for her birthday, her answer never varied, “I want to be on Broadway!” Many a memorial birthday was spent sitting in a Broadway theatre immersed in a world she loved.
When asked her approach to life she said it was simple, you needed to grab it with both hands and hold on tight because you were going for a ride!
Gina is survived by her husband of 45 years, Richard, her younger sisters Holly Mineau and Leslie Dziubinski, both of Texas, as well as cherished nieces, nephews, and grand-nieces and grand-nephews.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Ogdensburg rescue Squad or to the friends of the Ogdensburg Library.
Online condolences may be made at www.fraryfuneralhome
Dixie M. Carpenter
Dixie M. Carpenter, 83, a resident of County Route 113 in Greenwich, passed away Tuesday, June 20, 2023 at Fort Hudson Health Care Center in Fort Edward.
Born January 24, 1940 in Glens Falls, NY she was the daughter of the late William and Kathryn LaVoy Flanders.
Dixie was a graduate of Schuylerville Central School and had worked for Met Life in Albany until she retired. She then worked for Maroun Insurance Agency in Tupper Lake for several years.
In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband David F. Carpenter and her brother Will LaVoy and two nephews, Tim and Jeff LaVoy.
Survivors include special nephew, niece and caregiver, Louis Flanders Jr. (Tena) and their children, Morgan and David (Krista) as well as many other beloved nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews; 3 brothers, Louis E. Flanders Sr. (Laurie), Kenneth Flanders, and Paul Flanders Sr. (Kathy); and her extended family the Aldridge’s and the Deyoe’s.
A graveside service will be held at 12 noon, Tuesday, June 27, 2023 at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga Cemetery, 200 Duell Rd., Schuylerville.
Her family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff of G-Wing at Fort Hudson for their love and care.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in her memory to Friends of Saratoga County Animal Shelter, P.O. Box 788, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 or online at www.friendsofscas.org .
Robert E. Jones, 89
Funeral services for Robert E. Jones D.D., age 89, of Tupper Lake, will be held on Wednesday, June 28, 2023 at 11:00AM at Tupper Lake Christian Center with Pastor Dave Boyea officiating. Calling hours will be held on Wednesday from 11:00AM up until the time of the service. Burial will follow at Holy Name Cemetery in Tupper Lake. Mr. Jones passed away at his home on Saturday, June 24, 2023.
Bob was born on June 2, 1934, in Tupper Lake, NY, the son of the late John Hubert and Delima Oshier Jones. He graduated from Tupper Lake Central School and enlisted in the Army where he served 4 years. After his honorable discharge from the Army, he enlisted in the United States Coast Guard where he served on various vessels and was stationed at many different ports around the world during his 20-year tenure. Bob was an avid ham radio enthusiast and kept in contact with the many friends he made worldwide during his time with the United States Coast Guard.
After retiring from the service, he started working for the Tupper Lake Police Dept as a dispatcher. He also became more involved in the Catholic Charismatic Church. He served as Patriarch of the Catholic Charismatic Church and most recently the Patriarch Emeritus.
Bob also loved motorcycles, he loved driving and repairing them; he had a passion for all things mechanical, especially radio-controlled airplanes. He was also a member of Mensa.
Condolences can be made online at www.fraryfuneralhome.com.
Andrew Beaudette, 59
It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Andrew John Beaudette, 59, a beloved brother and friend. He passed away suddenly and unexpectedly of natural causes, in his home in San Diego on Friday June 16th.
Andrew was born on April 22nd 1964 to Muriel (Laramie) and Leo Beaudette. He graduated from Tupper Lake High School in 1982. He then went on to work for North Star industries for many years.
He moved to San Diego in 2006 and worked for Sharp Medical as an Administrative Assistant until his passing.
Anyone who knew Andrew will understand the huge hole he has left in our hearts. He will be sorely missed by his many friends, and family.
He is survived by his sister Cynthia and her husband Donald Whitmore, his sister in law Carol (Neal) Beaudette, his sister Nancy and her husband Steven Conte, his brother Gary Beaudette, and his sister Erin and her husband Chris Klossner, nine nieces and nephews, and eight great nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents Muriel and Leo Beaudette, and by three siblings James, Neal, and Joan Beaudette.
A Celebration of Life will take place at 111 Old Piercefield Road, on October 7th at 2 pm. Please come and join us in honoring our brother Andrew, and feel free to bring any pictures and memories you would like to share.
Mary Elizabeth Freer Lyle, 99
Mary Elizabeth Freer Lyle, 99 of Vernon Hall passed away Saturday June 17th at the Jack Byrne Center for Palliative and Hospice Care surrounded by family.
She was born in Poughkeepsie NY on October 19,1923 the daughter of Harry and Anna (Simon) Freer. She attended the Huns Lake one room school house and Pine Plains Central High School before attending the Wood Purinton Business School. She married Robert H. Lyle on April 21, 1946 and settled in Millbrook NY where she worked for Bennett College. Mary and Bob retired to Tupper Lake in the Adirondacks where they built a home on Little Wolf Lake and were long time volunteers at Paul Smith's VIC and the Wild Center. Mary was an avid reader, writer and poet. She loved camping, hiking and swimming. Wherever she was living she became actively involved with her community, from joining community theatre programs to driving for meals on wheels, to teaching an exercise class in her assisted living facility. She had a vibrant personality and a caring heart. After Bob's passing in 2008 Mary moved to Northfield MA to be closer to family.
Mary is survived by her daughters Jane Lyle-Jaworski and Jessica Lyle Chaplin and her husband Mark Chaplin as well as grandchildren Erin (David Thomas) Jaworski, Julian (Corey) Jaworski, Tara Chaplin, Kimberly (Ben) Sharp, Kelly (Kari) Freer, and great-grandchildren William, Jacob, and Emmett Thomas, Astyr Sharp, Adeline and Hugo Freer. For Mary her family was her joy.
Calling hours will be from 11 to noon Monday June 26 at the Kidder Funeral Home followed by a Liturgy of Christian burial in St Patrick's Church Main St Northfield MA. There will be a private burial at a later date in Millbrook NY. Donations in Mary's honor can be made to your local hospice center or to the Dickinson Memorial Library in Northfield MA.
Kashara (Tarbox) Metzger, 38
Funeral Services for Kashara Katherine Metzger (Tarbox), age 38, of West Palm Beach, FL, formally Tupper Lake, will be held on Friday, June 9, 2023 at noon at Frary Funeral Home, Tupper Lake. Burial will follow immediately after the services in Gale Cemetery. A celebration of life will be held at the VFW Post 3120 following the graveside service.
Kashara passed away unexpectedly on May 17th, 2023 at HCA Florida JFK Hospital in Atlantis, Florida.
She is survived by her son, Krischen Fortier of Tupper Lake; her husband, Daniel Metzger of Louisville, KY; her father, Gregory (Victoria) Tarbox of Ogdensburg; her mother, Wendy Thompson (Demars) of Newton Falls; her brothers, Kristopher (Emilie) Tarbox and Brock (Courtney) Tarbox, both of Tupper Lake; her sisters, Takara (Adam) Thompson of Saranac Lake and Cierra Thompson of Tupper Lake; her grandparents, Alan and Cheryl Tarbox, of Piercefield; along with many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.
Kashara was born on January 18, 1985, in Saranac Lake, the daughter of Gregory Tarbox and Wendy Demars. She graduated from Tupper Lake High School in 2003. She worked at Sunmount DDSP on and off from 2005 until 2013.
Her favorite things in life were being with family and making everyone laugh. She was known for her beautiful smile and contagious, one-of-a-kind laughter. She is going to be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing and loving her.
Condolences can be made online at www.fraryfuneralhomes.com.
Sherman P. Beaudette, 74
A funeral Mass for Sherman P. Beaudette, age 74, of Tupper Lake, was held on Friday, June 2, 2023 at 1 p.m. at St. Alphonsus Church in Tupper Lake with Rev. James Teti officating. A celebration of life was held after Mass at the VFW Post 3120 from 2p.m. on.
Sherman passed away on Tuesday, May 30th, 2023 at his home surrounded by his loving family. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Frary Funeral Home.
Sherman was born May 12, 1949 in Tupper Lake to the late Albert William Beaudette and Geraldine LaLonde. He attended and graduated from Tupper Lake High School. He married Patricia Woods on December 12, 1970 at Holy Name Church with Father. Nichols officiating.
Sherman was employed as the Director of Facility Services for Mercy Living Center in Tupper Lake and retired on June 22, 2012.
Sherman is survived by his children, Tracy LaFlamme and her husband Matthew Harris of Tupper Lake, Nicole Logie of Tupper Lake, and Peter Beaudette and his wife Shannon of Tupper Lake; his sibilings, Penny Young of Tupper Lake, Albert Beaudette of Lyons, N.Y., Jean Hart and her husband Gary of Chateaugay, N.Y., Richard Beaudette and his wife Sherry of Tupper Lake, Susan Herrmann and her husband Ken of AL, Joseph Beaudette of Tupper Lake, Kathy Gaudet and her husband Michael of Tupper Lake, Ronald Beaudette of Tupper Lake, Gerald Beaudette and his wife Denise of Tupper Lake, Robert Beaudette and his wife Christine of Tupper Lake, and Paul Beaudette and his wife Sharon of MD; his grandchildren, Kevin Becker, Jenifer Harris, Ashley Harris, Merryl Logie, Madelyn Logie, Sawyer Logie, and Madison Vachon. He also is survived by his loyal schnauzer, Nellie. Many nieces and nephews.
He is predeceased by his parents and his brother, Michael Beaudette.
Sherman enjoyed collecting baseball cards, putting puzzles together, and was an avid Yankees and Giants fan. Athleticism was always very important to him, as he played baseball throughout his youth, and would later coach Leroy’s Auto men’s softball for both his son’s and grandson’s teams.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations in his memory to the Tri-Lakes Humane Society, 255 George H Lapan Memorial Hwy, Saranac Lake, NY 12983.
Condolences may be made at fraryfuneralhome.com.
Mary Baker, 64
It is with saddened and heavy hearts that Mary Baker's family announces the loss of a devoted wife, dedicated mother, doting grandmother, and very special friend at the young age of 64 to her battle with brain cancer.
Mary lived a full eventful life, full of love and dedication to her family, friends, and community.
Born on September 7 1958 to Harold and Wilma Quesnel, a ray of light in the world that is much different than that of today. Like Mary, the microchip and NASA also met the beginning of their lives that year. Like the microchip changing the world we live in today Mary too changed the world she lived in and every life she had touched.
She leaves behind her loving husband, Michael Baker, who took care of her through the very end being by her side in the roughest of time. She is survived too by her kids, Jeremy and his wife Carolyn Nadeau, Shawn Nadeau, and Afton Nadeau and her partner Eddie Frenette, who gave her some of the most precious gifts that she held most dear- her grandkids! They are: Chase Nadeau, Reanna Nadeau, Shane Jessie, Sophie Nadeau, Gabby and Lucy Frenette, Ava and Mekenna Nadeau. She also leaves behind a brother and two sisters Alan Quesnel, Sandra Page, and Lori Ann Stump.
Family was at Mary’s core foundation of her life, everything and anything she did was because of her commitment to family. Once married to Bernard Nadeau she traveled the world as an Air Force spouse raising her kids the best she could in such a challenging environment wasn't always the easiest.
The two split up after a time and Mary moved back to Tupper Lake. She worked several jobs to take care of her three kids and was also going back to school at North Country Community College to earn her associate’s degree. When she got to the point of being able to retire, she continued her selfless work in the community cleaning the local Beth Joseph Historic Synagogue and lending a hand to friends in need whether it be cleaning hotel rooms or someone who just was having a hard time.
Yet her greatest joy was taking care of her grandkids. Whenever and whatever her grandkids needed from her she was there to pick up the pieces and try and get their lives back on track, push them in the right direction or give them the support she felt they needed. Like all people who do good things in this world, too often those lives are cut short, and Mary was no different and lost her fight and passed in the evening of May 17, 2023.
Often said by many “Mary would give you her last dollar if you needed it even if she needed it.” If you didn't know her this says all you need to know. The list could go on and on of the people she’s helped and lives she touched but this would go from an obituary to a book.
She is a woman who has poured so much light in the world with her laugh, smile and charisma. The world is just a bit darker now with her loss and could use more rays of sunshine like her. Everyone who knew her will now have a piece of their heart taken from them but remember that is not how she would have wanted you to feel. Remember her in the happy light she left in your lives. “She was a wife, a mother, a grandma too. This is the legacy we have from you!”
We love you Dear, Mom, Sister, and friend and you will be with us always no matter which title people use for you.
Services were held at the Frary Funeral Home of Tupper Lake on Tuesday, May 23, 2023.
Francis E. Godin, 79
A funeral Mass for Francis Elmer Godin, age 79, of Tupper Lake, was held on Tuesday, May 23, 2023, at 1p.m. at St. Alphonsus Church with Rev. James Teti officiating. Calling hours were held on Monday, May 22, 2023 from 4p.m. to 7p.m. at Frary Funeral Home, Tupper Lake. Burial took place at Holy Name Cemetery immediately following the Mass. Following the graveside service, all family and friends were invited to the VFW Post to celebrate Frank’s life.
Frank passed away on Wednesday, May 17, 2023 at Adirondack Medical Center. Arrangements were under the care and direction of Frary Funeral Home, Tupper Lake.
Frank is survived by his loving wife, Rosemary Godin; their three children, Mike Godin, and his wife, Martha, of Tupper Lake, René LaMora, of Tupper Lake, Wilson Godin, and his wife, Rae, of Ogdensburg; eight grandchildren, Michele Dukette, Michael Valentine, Emily Godin, Savannah Cramer, Dawn Potter, Jacob Shaver, Hunter Gollinger, and Livia Shaver, six great grandchildren; Jackson Dukette, Leah Dukette, Ameliyah Arnold, Paisley Rae Gollinger, Phoenix Cash Thompson, and Rylee Thompson.
Frank was born on May 8, 1944, in Tupper Lake, the son of Marshall and Beulah (LeBlanc) Godin. He attended local schools.
On April 1, 1967, Frank married Rosemary Walsh at Holy Name Church with Mgsr. Cosseao officiating.
Frank first worked for Grand Union Grocery becoming manager of the store in Long Lake. He then worked for the Town of Altamont as a bus driver for the town for the ski route in the winter and beach route in the summer.
He loved puzzles of all kinds, gardening, and collecting coins and baseball cards. He was a member of the Tupper Lake Fire Department and a member of the Knights of Columbus.
Donations may be made in Frank’s name to the Tupper Lake Food Pantry, 179 Demars Blvd Suite 2, Tupper Lake, NY 12986.
Dean H. Pohl, 80
“It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.” - Teddy Roosevelt
Dean H. Pohl, 80, of Antlers Road, Raquette Lake, passed away Thursday, May 18, 2023 at his home.
Born on December 4, 1942 in Rome, NY, Dean was the son of the late William and Mildred (Letts) Pohl. He was a graduate of West Leyden High School and earned an Associates degree from Alfred Tech.
Following graduation, Dean relocated to Raquette Lake permanently, where he had summered since he was a young boy. Dean was the maintenance supervisor at Echo Camp for Girls for several years, where he wooed laundry girl Donna Blakely over boat rides up the Marion River, where he had planted salt licks to guarantee deer sightings. And she wooed him with her work ethic and minimalist attitude, having arrived in Raquette Lake with only a knapsack! Dean and Donna were married on May 29, 1971 on the dock at Echo.
In 1974, Dean opened Pohl Construction, specializing in single family camps and homes accessible only by boat, necessitating barging of materials, equipment, fill - everything you need to build a house. As a master carpenter and contractor, his motto was “No job too big, no job too small,” and he proudly did “business on a handshake” for over 50 years. Concurrently, for 20+ years, Dean was the maintenance superintendent at the Raquette Lake Camps, a two-campus facility with over 600 residents including campers and staff.
Amazingly, Dean found time for yet another project. In the winters of 1989-1991, Dean built the W.W. Durant, founding Raquette Lake Navigation alongside Donna, launching the Durant on June 29, 1991. With Captain Dean at the helm, Donna acting as the operation’s “WD-40,” and the four children filling various roles over the years, the Pohls have hosted over 450,000 guests in their 30 year history. In 2021, it was with great pride that the couple sold the business to the next generation - daughter Rachel and son Jim - and Dean and Donna became the new owners’ most loyal employees and greatest supporters.
Dean was a steward of the Adirondacks and of Raquette Lake in particular. He believed in serving his community and was an elected Commissioner of the Raquette Lake Fire District #3, a Board member of the Raquette Lake Union Free School District, an active member of the Raquette Lake Fish and Game Club, an elected Town of Long Lake Councilman for the past 18 years, and an avid supporter of St. William’s on Long Point. He was also a member of the North Woods Lodge #849 Free and Accepted Masons and the Oriental Shriners. Dean was known as a problem solver and gave of himself willingly whenever the community needed it. He was instrumental in resolving the Township 40 title dispute, the Raquette Lake reservoir issue, and many other challenges that the community has faced over the years.
Dean enjoyed hunting, ice fishing, and above all, earning a living with his family. BD (“Before Donna”), he enjoyed raising hell.
He is survived by his wife of nearly 52 years, Donna Pohl; their four children: Bill Pohl (Biz), Rachel Pohl (George), Jim Pohl (Sydney), and Rebecca Pohl (Rambo); two grandchildren: Avery Mae Pohl and Dean James Pohl; a sister, Jane Cihocki; and his dear friends: Flip Joyce, Dan Richards, Mitch Edelstein, Mike Burke, Jim Dillon, Jim Blanchard, Gyula Kiss, Jay Cummings, Mike Marleau, John Hosley, Dennis Phillips, Bill Osborne, Willie Hollister, Electric Bob, and Jim Dwyer. Dean is joining many dear friends who predeceased him: Don Bird, Garry Hazen, Bill Cooley, Jerry Lanphear, Jim Bird, Kurt Forsell, Dutch Pylman, Don Langham, George Fuge, George Loriot, Harry Waldron, Fred Burke, Skipper and Alice, Rusty and Steve, Pat Cunningham, and Hal Stevens…too many to list.
A celebration of Dean’s life will be held at Dean and Donna’s home in Raquette Lake, the Birch Cottage (490 Antlers Rd.), on Saturday, May 27, 2-5pm. Further details are on the Raquette Lake Navigation facebook page.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Dean’s memory may be directed to St. William’s on Long Point: https://www.stwilliamslongpoint.org
To express online condolences, please visit www.brewermillerfuneralhomes. and/or https://www.facebook.com/
Charles “Chip” Perham, 73
Charles “Chip” Perham, age 73, of Tupper Lake, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 5, 2023 at his home surrounded by his loving family. There was a Celebration of Life held on Monday, May 8, 2023 from 3p.m. to 6p.m. at the Tupper Lake VFW Post 3120.
He is survived by his wife, Loretta Perham; his three children, John Kucipak and his wife Anne, of Freeman, ME; Melissa Perham and her companion Typhanie Cruzan, of San Antonio, TX, Danielle Sitz and her husband Matthew, of Columbus, OH; three grandchildren, Christopher Kucipak, Madelynn Sitz, and Colton Sitz; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is predeceased by his brother, Clifford Perham and his sister, Charlotte Conyne.
Chip was born on March 7, 1950, in Gloversville, N.Y., the son of the late Sanford and Cecilia (Naish) Perham.
In 1968, he graduated from Mayfield High School and went on to attend SUNY Morrisville. He received an Associate’s Degree and went on to Syracuse University, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Conservation Forestry.
After university, Chip took a job as a caretaker for the Reed/Strange Family Park, where he worked for over 10 years. In 1984, he began his career at the Tupper Lake Central School District as a bus driver and cleaner, eventually working his way to the Head of Transportation for the school district, retiring in 2012.
Chip joined the Tupper Lake Fire Department in 1993 and served in various officer roles over the years as well. He was president of the Tupper Lake Rod & Gun Club and was involved in the Federation of Rod and Gun Clubs. He was very proud to be a Tupper Lake Woodsmen for over 30 years, assisting with the Grease Pole and was known as “The Wave” at the Woodsmen.
He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and he loved to camp, since 1985 he would take his family all over the Adirondacks. Chip also loved spending time with his friends and family, which meant everything to him.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory can be made to the Tupper Lake Fire Department, 21 Santa Clara Ave, Tupper Lake, NY 12986.
Condolences can be made online at www.fraryfuneralhomes.com.
Marc Counter
Dear Family and Friends:
Please help us honor and celebrate the life of Marc E. Counter on May 13th at 4pm. A celebration of life will be held at the Tupper Lake Rod and Gun Club.
Marc was born September 20th, 1982 in Saranac Lake. He attended Tupper Lake Central School and quickly went to work at Counters’ Garage with his father. In 2015, he began his own business, Marc Counter Jr Auto Service.
Marc was someone we will never forget. Especially his love for the outdoors. He was an avid outdoorsman and loved to go riding with family and friends on motorcycles and any ATV vehicle. He enjoyed vacationing/ family get togethers, teaching his children and friends the art of hunting and fishing, dirt bike races, camping, ice fishing, golfing, and spending time with his children, which was a major priority.
He is survived by his four children, Lincoln, Phoenix, Roland and Evie Counter, as well as his companion of many years; Sarah Kentile; his parents, Marc and Carolee Counter, his siblings, Rebecca (Counter) and David Dewyea, Laura Counter and companion Robert Baker, Joel Counter and companion Kara Willette. As well as many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.
Again, we would hope you can join us on May 13 at 4p.m. at the Tupper Lake Rod and Gun Club.
Please come prepared with a funny or uplifting story about Marc so we know it’s okay to smile through the tears.
Condolences may be made online at www.fraryfuneralhomes.com.
Raymond North, 84
Raymond S. North, 84, known as “Bim” to his nieces and nephews, passed peacefully in his home on April 20, 2023. Born in Conifer, New York to John R. North and Rosebell W. North on April 14, 1939, Raymond lived his entire life in Conifer, surrounded by family.
Well known for his maple syrup, Raymond began producing in 1964 and continued to do so this very season, aided by his nephews, Jay and John Rust, their families, and many friends. Raymond is also known for his role in bringing back and coordinating the Tupper Lake Woodsmen's Field Days in the early 1980’s. Raymond also co-owned and operated John R. North & Sons Logging.
Raymond is survived by his three siblings: Haile North, Fern Rust, and John W. North, all of Conifer as well as many nieces and nephews, who will all miss him dearly. He is predeceased by his parents and his sisters Gwen Shumway, Minnie Cornell, and Audrey Gravelle (who passed in March).
A graveside service will be held at Gale Cemetery in Gale, New York on May 20, 2023, at 1:30 p.m.
Norma M. LaFrance, 95
Norma Margaret LaFrance, 95, was born on July 4, 1927, in Buffalo N.Y. to Laura M. LaFrance-Gagnier and Wilfred A. Gagnier. After the death of her mother, she was adopted by her maternal grandmother and grandfather, Victoria and Louis LaFrance, where she spent her childhood in Tupper Lake.
In 1946 she married and moved to New Hyde Park, Long Island and welcomed her three children- Joanna, Wayne and Douglas.
In the 1970’s, Norma moved to San Jose where she started her career as a CNA and home health care aide, specializing in elderly and AID’s patients. Norma enjoyed many hobbies including reading 1-2 books a week, jewelry making, knitting, world travel to exotic countries (like Greece, India, and Egypt, just to mention a few), learning about world religions and cultures, and her community at the YMCA volunteering, working out, potlucks and friendships. There are many plaques and honors attributed to her volunteering there, where she was known as “The Greeter”. Norma was generous, compassionate, and loving with a fun, spicy and adventurous spirit.
Norma passed peacefully in her sleep on March 15, 2023 at her daughter’s home. She is survived by her brother Joseph W. Gagnier, daughter Joan (Joanna) Boylan, her four grandkids Joe (Joaquim), Laura, Beth, and Steven, and her great-grandchildren, including Anna Nicole Cook. She will be interred in the LaFrance family plot St. Alfonse Cemetery in Tupper Lake along with her mother. There are no services planned at this time.
Richard A. Hovey, 89
It is with sad hearts that the family of Richard “Dick” Hovey of New Windsor, N.Y. announces his passing on Sunday April 23, 2023. Richard passed away surrounded by his family.
Born on June 4, 1933, he was the son of the late Clarence and Laura (Bone) Hovey of Tupper Lake, N.Y.
He served as a medic in the United States Navy from October 1951-1955 during the Korean War.
He retired from Central Hudson Gas and Electric after 37 years, serving as a supervisor at the Danskammer and Roseton Power plants.
He was a life member of the Orange County Volunteer Firefighters Association and a Life Member of Vails Gate Fire Company, serving more than 50 years, and served as chief from 1973-1975.
Richard was dedicated to community service and well known for helping community members in need.
Richard married the love of his life, Patricia (Joly) Hovey in October of 1954 and they were married for 68 years. Together, he and Pat were active members of St. Joseph’s Church in New Windsor.
He is survived by his wife Patricia M. Hovey; children: Michael (Lori) Hovey of Colorado, Richard S. (Kathleen) Hovey of New Windsor, NY, and Doug (Julie) Hovey of Newburgh, NY; and grandchildren: Sam, Kimberly, Emily, Ryan and Laura.
The family would like to thank the staff at Castle Point VA Hospital and The Kaplan Family Hospice Residence for their compassion and support.
Memorial visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Thursday, April 27 at Brooks Funeral Home, 481 Gidney Ave., Newburgh. A Mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, April 28 at St. Marianne Cope Parish (St. Thomas of Canterbury), Cornwall. Burial with military honors will follow in Orange County Veteran’s Cemetery, Goshen.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Kaplan Family Hospice Residence.
Gerald (Gerry) F. Lindsey, 88
Gerald (Gerry) F. Lindsey, 88, passed away April 19, 2023.
Gerry was born in Johnson City, N.Y., to the late Haden and Valora Lindsey. He was predeceased by his sister Betty (Ray) Hessinger of New Mexico. Gerry is survived by his wife, Sheila (Hunter), his daughter Karla (Rance) Brode, granddaughter Amber (Matt) Moore, Kurt, Kris, and Raelyn Hessinger of NM, and Karla’s mother Pauline Carmen-Lindsey. He is also survived by sister-in-law, Kathleen (James) Brady, and Sheila’s children Sheila Anne Hunter, Carol A. Houle, and James S. Hunter and their families.
Gerry was a proud veteran of the US Army 82nd Airborne and an AT&T Systems Technician. He and Sheila retired to the Adirondack Mountains and built a home in the woods of Long Lake, NY, gathering more than 20 years of cherished memories. Gerry, a woodsman at heart, loved the outdoors. He was a dedicated member of St. Henry's Church and participated in many parish activities. He most recently was a member of St. Francis of Assisi Church, Hillcrest, NY.
Graveside services with military honors will be at Long Lake Cemetery at noon on April 28, 2023, officiated by Father James Teti.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the NY State Police, multiple EMT responders, Wilson Medical Center staff, and Deacon Paul who provided such compassionate care. For those who wish, please consider a donation to American Heart Association or a charity of choice in Gerry's memory.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Miller Funeral Home, 6357 State Route 30, Indian Lake.
To express online condolences, please visit www.brewermillerfuneralhomes.