Lila “Sue” Hale

Lila R. “Sue” Hale, age 81, of Clay, NY passed away on Friday, January 19, 2024 at her home under the loving care of her family and Hospice.

There will be calling hours for Sue on Tuesday, January 23, 2024 from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at French Funeral Home in Edwards. Her funeral service will immediately follow at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home with Father Jay Seymour officiating. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery in Edwards. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Lila was born on August 9, 1942 in Talcville, NY to the late Vernon J. and Mary Rose (Girard) Lutz Sr. She graduated from Edwards Central School in 1960. She then went on to receive her Associates Degree in Accounting from Columbia College.

Sue married Gary Hale on September 22, 1962 at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Edwards. She worked as an Accountant and Controller for Condren Reality in Syracuse, NY for many years. Sue enjoyed gardening, traveling to look at different waterfalls and just being with her family.

Surviving is her husband, Gary; a son and daughter-in-law, Robert and Claudette Hale; a grandson, Devan Hale; a brother, Gary Lutz; three sisters, Donna Barlow, Bonnie Seaman and Jacqueline Prashaw; and several nieces and nephews.

Sue is predeceased by four brothers, William Henry Lutz, Bertrand Lutz, Joseph Lutz and Vernon Lutz Jr. and four sisters, Shirley Sheen, Betty Dwyer, Virginia Mussaw and Marion Twining.

Donations may be made in Sue’s memory to Alzheimer’s Association of CNY, 441 West Kirkpatrick St., Syracuse, NY 13204 or to a local Hospice.

Cynthia Sue Sywulski

Cynthia Sue Sywulski, 73, passed away peacefully under the loving care of family and Journey Home on January 19, 2024. Predeceased by parents Clifford and Henrietta (Gore) Hay, survived by husband Jerald (Skip) Sywulski, daughter Janet Denton, stepchildren John (Dawn) Sywulski, Jerald Jr. (Robin) Sywulski, Joann Carbone, Jeffery (Angela) Sywulski, brother Thomas (Karen) Hay, and numerous grandchildren, nieces, nephews and many family members.

Cindi was born in Gouverneur, NY July 29, 1950, graduated from Gouverneur High School and Canton ATC. She worked as an office manager at several businesses including Flanigans and Park Ridge Hospital. With a strong faith in God, Cindi was active at Bethany Presbyterian Church as a Stephen Minister, head of the Deacons, a bell ringer and other functions. She was also a nineteen year volunteer at Journey Home (Hospice).

Cindi was wonderful to be around as shown by her kind, caring heart, and fun personality, which had her many family and friends seeking her company and conversation.

Calling Hours will be 10 to 11 AM, followed by a Memorial Service at 11 AM at the Bethany Presbyterian Church, 3000 Dewey Avenue, Rochester, NY, on February 3, 2024. In lieu of flowers, donations in Cindi Sywulski’s honor may be made to the Bethany Presbyterian Church, Journey Home (Rochester) or the Lollipop Farm.

Kathleen Colburn Barkley

On January 12, 2024, Kathleen Colburn Barkley, 85, passed away under the care and at the home of her son Danny Colburn and Donna Lawrence, along with Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley and her wonderful aide Barbara Brown.

Kathy was born the daughter of Melvin and Dorothy (Rodgers) Collins on December 10, 1938 in Watertown NY.

She married the love of her life, George Colburn Sr. on July 3rd, 1954. They had six children together Dorothy Gasset of Clarksville TN, George Jr. (Shelly) of Adams Center, Danny Colburn (Donna Lawrence) Carol Colburn Cowles, Andrew (Jenny) Colburn, all of Gouverneur NY, and Georgia Colburn (deceased).

After the death of her husband George and daughter Georgia from a car accident, she married Herbert Barkley which ended in divorce, and had two children, Clint Barkley (deceased) and Mary Barkley (Mitch Martin) of Gouverneur. She is also survived by her sister Barbara Buckles of Watertown NY, 19 grandchildren, 38 great grandchildren, and 3 great great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews, whom she loved dearly. She is also survived by her son-in-law Donnie Cowles of Hermon NY.

Kathy worked as a waitress and was employed for many years at the St. James Catholic School cafeteria where her children attended school. She was a life member of the VFW Auxiliary of Gouverneur. Kathy loved spending time with her family and friends especially her best friend Alberta Jenks of Gouverneur. Kathy loved to dance even at the age of 85, wheelchair bound, with her son Danny as he held her up and swayed her to the music. Her favorite place to spend a beautiful summer day was at the camp of her son Danny’s on the Oswegatchie River in Rensselaer Falls and at her oldest grandson Jeff (Dusty) Bowmen’s camp also on the Oswegatchie River in Heuvelton.

She is also predeceased by her five brothers Bill, Frances, John, Tom, and Dick Collins and sisters Joan Hunt and Carolyn Webster.

There will be a graveside burial and a celebration of Kathy’s life in the spring . In lieu of flowers, you may send donations in Kathy’s name to Friends 4 Pound Paws, PO Box 394, Gouverneur, NY 13642.

Donna Aldrich

Donna Lucille Aldrich, age 63, of Gouverneur, passed away on January 11, 2024 at Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse listening to her pop music.

There will be a Celebration of Life held at a later date. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home in Gouverneur. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Donna was born on January 24, 1960 in Gouverneur to the late Grant Wesley and Virginia (Paige) Aldrich. She graduated from Indian River Central School in 1979, moved to Gouverneur in 1980 and worked for Ames, Wise Buys, Fashion Craze, and retired from Kinney Drugs in 2023 as a Customer Associate.

Donna loved to listen to music and go out dancing with her Kinney Drugs friends at Serendipity. She collected LP’s and CD’s and her favorite artist was Cher and favorite color was peach. She collected dolphin related items, played lots of board games, spoiling her great nephews and niece, and loved to visit friends and family over a glass of wine.

She is survived by her sisters, Kathie Perrin and Annette (Randy) McEathron, nephew, Casey McEathron, nieces, Cali McEathron and Cara Aldrich, great-nephews, Landon and Aydin Cobb, and a great-niece, Adelynn McEathron. She is predeceased by a sister, Charlene Aldrich, nephews, Brian Perrin and Larry Perrin, Jr., a great nephew, Noah Cobb, and her beloved cat, Teddy.

Donations in memory of Donna may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Carolyn Louise Gamble

Carolyn Louise Gamble peacefully made her heavenly journey to eternal life with God on December 24, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and cherished memories.

A child of the North country, Carolyn was born to Orrin and Theresa Fields on April 2, 1934 in Gouverneur, NY where she spent her childhood and was the oldest of four siblings.

She graduated from Gouverneur High School where she was active as a cheerleader, class vice president, member of student council and the a cappella choir. She enjoyed dancing, roller skating, and having adventures with her many friends.

After high school, Carolyn worked at NY Telephone where she met the love of her life, Jerry Gamble. They married in 1955 and spent the early years of their marriage raising three daughters, first in Gouverneur and then in Guilderland, NY.

Carolyn was active in her local church, Carman United Methodist, where she was the financial secretary and member of the UMW for over 50 years. She enjoyed bowling, volunteering for the American Red Cross, taught sewing in 4H, loved cheering on her daughters and grandchildren-in sports, school activities, and life; was an avid supporter of UConn women’s basketball and a loyal fan of Dancing With The Stars. She could always be found with a camera in her hand recording family memories.

When Carolyn’s daughters were all in school, she re-entered the work place, spending over 20 years as an industrial supplies sales rep for Syracuse Supply Co.

Her greatest joy was spending time with her family. Whether in person or by phone, she always made time to listen, give practical advice, and show loving support.

Carolyn is survived by her daughters, Lori Valentini and Amy Proulx (Bill). She is also survived by her grandson, Michael Colwell (Julie), granddaughter Nicole Proulx (Maggie), granddaughter in law Cortney Proulx (Ryan); three great-grandchildren; sisters Bonnie Moosbrugger of FL and Phyllis Wells of NY, and brother Stewart Peters of NY.

She was predeceased by her husband of 60 years, Jerry, her daughter Cathy, and her grandson, Ryan Proulx.

Her family would like to thank all the nurses, aides, and staff that cared for her with kindness and respect during her stay at The Eddy Village Green. They are also thankful for the valuable support provided by Community Hospice.

Family and friends were invited to gather on January 6, 2024 at Rotterdam United Methodist Church, 1915 Helderberg Ave, Schenectady, NY from 11am to 12noon, with a service. A private interment followed.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Carolyn’s memory may be made to, The Alzheimer’s Association, 1003 New London Rd, Suite 201, Cohoes, NY 12047

Carolyn (Bonner) Gould

Carolyn (Bonner) Gould, 79, passed away on Thursday, January 4, 2024 at Samaritan Keep Home in Watertown.

A celebration of life will be announced later in the spring. Arrangements are with the Green Funeral Home in Gouverneur.

Carolyn was born in Malone on July 20, 1944, the daughter of Raymond and Cathrine (King) Bonner.

She graduated from Colton Central School in 1962 and lived most of her life in the North Country.

Carolyn worked as a secretary much of her life, several years at Clarkson University in Potsdam, known for her typing skills.

She enjoyed reading, writing poetry, and enjoyed music for which she collected quite an album collection.

Carolyn is survived by her son Grant III and Lynn Gould of Gouverneur, her 2 grandchildren Tori Stevens and Shane Gould, and her 5 great grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother Jim Bonner of Potsdam, her sister Myrna Scruton of North Carolina, nieces and nephews. Carolyn is predeceased by her parents and her sister Judy Conner.

Memorial donations in honor of Carolyn are encouraged to St. Judes Children’s Hospital.

Mary Alice Fortune Wood

Mary Alice Fortune Wood, 99, of Centennial Apartments, formerly of Philadelphia, NY, passed away, Sunday morning, December 31, 2023 at Samaritan Medical Center, Watertown, NY.

Born August 10, 1924 in Gouverneur, NY, to Pearl Rosanna Bouchard and John Leo Fortune and she graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1944.

She married Gerald Wood in 1944 and they operated a farm in Antwerp for many years.

She is survived by four daughters Carole Ann Rudes, Philadelphia NY, Linda Mary (Theodore) Thomas Watertown NY, Susan Alice (David) Shaffer Hastings NY and Sally Jo (Daniel) Zurenda Watertown NY; her grandchildren, Bryan Rudes, Amy Rudes (Gifford), Jennifer Rudes (Ehrig), Corey Covell, Dana Thomas, Aaron Shaffer, Ashleigh Shaffer (Simmons), Logan Gundersen and Kelsey Gundersen; step grandchildren, Christina Shaffer, Jessica Shaffer (Hanley) and Jeremiah Shaffer; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, who all loved her very much.

Alice had many jobs in her early years growing up in Gouverneur from babysitting, working at the local theaters and JJ Newberrys.  Her favorite job was being a school bus driver at Indian River Central School where she enjoyed the all kids that rode her bus #42 and #68.

She enjoyed reading, playing cards with her daughters and friends, crossword puzzles, jigsaw puzzles on her computer, watching Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune and spending time with family. Everyone enjoyed listening to all her stories about her life growing up.

She is preceded in death by her parents, four sisters, Marjorie Fortune Sands, Marion Fortune Evans, Elizabeth Fortune Palmer, Catherine Fortune Morrow, and a son-in-law, Keith Rudes.

Her daughters would like to say a special Thank you to our aide Kelly that has helped to take care of Mom and provided much support for us. Also, a special Thanks to our previous aides, Jesse, Maureen and Charlotte, Mom loved all of you!

Thank you to all the staff at Samaritan Medical for all the kind support and compassion you gave us and our Mom.

Services were at 11:30 am, Monday, January 8, 2024 at Frederick Bros. Funeral Home, Theresa, NY, with Rev. Frank Natale of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Evans Mills, NY, officiating. Calling hours were at 10am to 11:30 am, prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will be in Child’s Falls Sunrise Cemetery, Philadelphia, NY.

Donations may be made to the Indian River Ambulance Service, PO Box 245, Philadelphia, NY 13673.

To leave condolences go to www.frederickbrosfuneralhome.com and access the obituary. Click on the Tribute Wall located at the top.

Joan B. Kingsley

Joan B. Kingsley, age 87, of Fowler, passed away on January 6, 2024 at United Helpers Nursing Home.

Calling hours will be held at French Funeral Home, Gouverneur on Friday, January 12, 2024 from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. Her funeral service will be on Saturday, January 13, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at the Gouverneur United Methodist Church with Pastor Ben Lalka officiating. Burial will be in the Hailesboro Cemetery. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Joan was born on June 10, 1936 in Auburn, NY to Harry C. and Helen I. (Cummings) Bibbens. She graduated from Weedsport High School in 1954 followed by Cayuga County Community College (1956) and SUNY Oswego (1958). She continued graduate work at Oswego and Potsdam State. She married David K. Kingsley on June 25, 1966 at the Gouverneur United Methodist Church with Rev. Stanley Brown officiating.

She began her teaching career at Ilion Central School where she taught for three years. She then worked for the next 31 years as a beloved kindergarten teacher at Fowler Elementary, part of the Gouverneur School District, teaching generations of students. She is listed in the first and second edition of Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers having been nominated by former students. She was a member of the Gouverneur Retired Teachers Association and a life member of the New York State Retirement Association. She was a member of the Gouverneur United Methodist Church and sang in the church choir for many years. She enjoyed reading, doing word puzzles, playing cards and watching Yankee baseball games. She will be remembered locally for her Halloween cookies.

Joan is survived by a son, Daniel M. and his wife Tina Kingsley; a daughter-in-law, Denise Kingsley; a granddaughter, Hannah Kingsley all of Gouverneur; three sisters Patricia (Arthur) Cantrell of Liverpool, Judith (Greg) Green, Jayne (Cyril) Paige both of Fernandina Beach, FL; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

She is predeceased by her husband, David K. who passed away in 2008; a son, David M. (2011); two brothers, Thomas H. Bibbens, Richard J. Bibbens, and a sister, Phyllis B. McWethy.

Donations may be made in Joan’s memory to the Gouverneur United Methodist Church or a charity of your choice.

Marion Hunter

Marion “Mary” Jean Hunter, age 89, passed away on January 3, 2024 at North Country Rehabilitation and Nursing in Massena.

Calling hours for Mary will be at French Family Funeral Home in Star Lake on Friday, January 12, 2024 from 2:00 – 3:30 pm. with her funeral service following at 3:30 p.m. After the service there will be a reception held at the Cranberry Lake Fire Hall. A graveside service at Cranberry Lake Cemetery will be at a later date. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Marion was born on August 3, 1934 in Gouverneur, NY to the late Charles Melvin and Fern Luella (Wood) Kingsbury. She graduated from Gouverneur Central School in 1953. On May 3, 1953, Mary married Harry Marcus Hunter in Gouverneur. Harry passed away on April 25, 2000.

Marion worked as a court clerk for the Town of Clifton for 38 years. She had also worked at Sheards Store in Cranberry Lake as a cashier, the Cranberry Lake Library, the Stone Manor and was a house cleaner for several people. She was a member of the Star Lake Senior Citizens and Cranberry Lake Auxiliary, where she was a former Vice President and President. She was an assistant for the 4-H, girl scouts and cub scouts and she herself was a former girl scout. She enjoyed collecting frog figurines and was known as Froggie. She also enjoyed sewing, fishing, dancing, playing bingo, going to the casino, listening to blue grass music, embroidering, watching television, gardening, canning and was known for making her applesauce for the auxiliary.

Surviving are two daughters and their husbands, Jeanie S. Hunter-Allen and Mike Allen of Boulder, CO and Julie A. and Robert LaTray of Star Lake; three sons, Mark A. Hunter of Ithaca, NY, Mitchell C. Hunter of Florida and Jason C. and Pauline Hunter of Swedesboro, NJ; seven grandchildren, Jason, Mary, Donald, Makayla, Aaron, Kathleen, and Ian, and seven great grandchildren, Adelyn, Quinn, Jack, Gabriel, Crofton, William, and Cecilia.

She was predeceased by her husband, Harry M. Hunter, a daughter, Mary Jean Hunter, and two brothers, Robert M. Kingsbury and Richard C. Kingsbury.

Donations may be made in Marion’s memory to the Cranberry Lake Fire and Rescue, PO Box 549 Cranberry Lake NY 12927.

Alan Mason

Alan Clifton Mason, age 75, of Gouverneur, New York passed away on December 28, 2023, at home.

Alan was born on December 6, 1948, to the late Clifton E. and Marion E. (Hewitt) Mason who he loved dearly. His parents taught him the importance of dedication and hard work. He graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1967 and then went on to earn his Bachelor's degree in Management Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 1971. Upon graduation he was accepted into the Officer’s Candidate School, achieving the rank of 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Army. He was fortunate enough to be assigned to Fort Drum, close to family, and was soon promoted to 1st Lieutenant. Alan served as the Services Officer in the Logistics Directorate. He left the Army in 1976 and accepted a position as a Customs Inspector with the U.S. Customs and was eventually promoted to Supervisor. He worked in both Ogdensburg and Alexandria Bay until his retirement.

As a young man, Alan was determined to be independent and work diligently for everything he had earned. He spent much of the summer months as a farm hand for Madeline and Gordon Williams, worked at the Gralyn Theater, delivered milk for Elmer Drummond, and worked in construction as a laborer at St. Joe Minerals during college.

Alan was an avid sports fan. While in the Army, he enjoyed playing in the men’s softball league with his brother, Arnold. One of his favorite pastimes was watching the New York Yankees. You could say it was a family tradition. He attended many MLB games at different stadiums across the country with family and friends over the years. Alan was a part of a bowling league in Gouverneur with his brother, Andy. Alan enjoyed boating and fishing and later went on to coach his son’s T-Ball team. He loved dancing, recording playlists on cassettes and CDs and any music in general. Music spoke to him like nothing else. His favorites were anything Elvis.

Alan married Joan Wight on November 18, 2006, at the Gouverneur Methodist Church. Over the years, his favorite role was that of a grandparent and doting father. Alan and Joan dedicated much of their time traveling to go see their nine grandchildren. Family was Alan’s pride and joy. He cherished every moment he had with each one of them.

His memory will live on in the hearts of all those who loved him.

He is survived by his wife, Joan Mason, his children, Kristi (John) Allardyce, Kari (Mike) Lacy, Mathew (Sydney) Mason, Melissa (Daniel) Bishop, and Jonathan (Laura) Wight, 9 grandchildren, Addison, Kate, Cohen, Quinn, Landon, Colby, Alex, Braven, and Emberlin, and his siblings, Alice Malec, Arnold (Joan) Mason, Andrew (Debbie) Mason, and Amy (Gary) Pilon.

Alan is predeceased by his parents and a brother-in-law, Joseph Malec.

Calling hours will be held at French Funeral Home in Gouverneur on Saturday, January 6, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. with his funeral service following at 1:00 p.m. Burial will be in East Riverside Cemetery. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Donations in memory of Alan may be made to the Gouverneur Fire Department, 33 Clinton Street, Gouverneur NY 13642 or Ryan’s Wish Foundation, PO Box 326, Gouverneur NY 13642.

Portia Bush

Portia Elaine (Powell) Bush, 96, passed away on Monday, January 1, 2024 at St. Joseph’s Home in Ogdensburg, NY.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, January 6th from 10:00 to 11:30 am with a funeral service at 11:30 am at the United Methodist Church in DeKalb Jct. with Martha Helmer officiating and burial to follow in Hermon Cemetery. Arrangements are with the Green Funeral Home in Gouverneur.

Portia was born on July 25, 1927 in a square, brick house between DeKalb Jct. and Old DeKalb to Mildred (Ritchie) Powell and Lloyd Powell. She graduated from DeKalb Junction High School in 1945 and married Charles J. Bush Sr. on May 2, 1946.

Charles and Portia started with a lumber yard and progressed to C.J. Bush Hardware in DeKalb Junction and later opened a hardware store in Gouverneur. The couple retired in 1989 and moved to Florida. As their health declined, they returned to live in Canton.

Besides working tirelessly along with her husband, Portia was an avid bowler and bowled in many tournaments. She had also sung in the church choir and belonged to the DeKalb Junction Methodist Church. Portia enjoyed sewing and knitting when she had time.

Portia is survived by her daughter Phyllis and James Shaw of Heuvelton, 6 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her husband Charles Sr., her son Charles Jr., her granddaughter Sally, her brothers Richard Powell and Robert Powell.

Memorial donations in honor of Portia are encouraged to the DeKalb Junction United Methodist Church or DeKalb Junction Vol. Fire Department.

Helen L. Downey, 90

Helen L. Downey, age 90 of Star Lake, NY passed away on December 23, 2023 at Clifton-Fine Hospital in Star Lake.

There will be a gathering time for Helen on Saturday, January 6, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. followed by her memorial service at 11:30 a.m. at French Family Funeral Home in Star Lake. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Helen was born on September 24, 1933 in Canton, NY to the late Andrew and Flora (Taylor) Caswell, the second of thirteen children. She graduated from Canton High School in 1950 as class salutatorian. After high school, Helen went to Royal Victorian Hospital in Montreal, where she studied nursing.

Helen married J. Rodney Downey on September 20, 1955. Rodney passed away on December 10, 1983. Helen had a longtime companion, Donald Jennings, who passed away in March of 2022. She worked as a registered nurse for E.J. Noble, Gouverneur before moving to Star Lake where she was employed by Clifton-Fine Hospital. She was also an office nurse for Dr. Persson, Dr. Jalalzai and the Clifton-Fine Boarding Home. She was a member of the Star Lake Fireman’s Auxiliary. She was a Den Mother for many years in Pack 35. Beginning in 1986 she wintered with her companion in
Cresent City, Florida. Helen enjoyed knitting, crossword puzzles, jig-saw puzzles, reading, and gardening. She enjoyed being with her family, her wit and spunk will be missed by all that knew her.

Surviving are her three sons, Charles Downey, David and Judy Downey and Gregory and Cindy Downey; seven grandchildren, sixteen great grandchildren; three brothers, Carl Caswell, George Caswell, and Keith Caswell; four sisters, Arlene Perrigo, Iona Brewer, Leta Perkins and Arvilla Aldus; and several nieces and nephews.

Helen is predeceased by her parents; her husband; two brothers, Alson Caswell and Orrin Caswell; and three sisters, Alberta Burke, Dorothy Morrison and Alma Miller.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Helen’s memory to the Star Lake Fire Department.

Dale Arthur McKinney

Dale Arthur McKinney, 90, passed away on Wednesday, December 20, 2023 at Samaritan Summit Village in Watertown.

There are no funeral services and Dale will be laid to rest in Oswegatchie Memorial Park in Ogdensburg.

Dale was born in Gouverneur on April 22, 1933, the son of Arthur and Berdella (Premo) McKinney.

He attended schools in Natural Dam and Gouverneur while also working part time at the paper mill. Dale then served in the United States Army for 5 years, achieving the rank of Sergeant.

Dale worked at Mercer’s Dairy, was self employed at McKinney and McGrath Landscaping, served as the Town of Fowler highway superintendent, retiring in 1999, and provided snow removal with Fort Drum Public Works at Wheeler Sack Air Field.

He resided in Antwerp many years and enjoyed hunting, motorcycling, cross country skiing, reading, spending time on the computer, and was a NY Yankee fan. Dale had been a member of the local VFW, Goose Pond Hunting Club, and North Country Retreads.

Dale married Fern (Wells) Hamilton on September 4, 1997.

He is survived by his children Michael McKinney and Arthur McKinney, his stepchildren John and Linda Hamilton, Peggy and Joel Reynolds, Patty and Lyle Rogers, step daughter in law Thelma Hamilton, step son in law George McIntyre, sister in law Phyllis Wells, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Dale is also survived by his sisters Joyce Huneau, Carolyn Dawley, and Gertrude Gates, many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, his wives the former Fern (Wells) Hamilton, Norma McGrath, and Gerda Giese, an infant brother Michael McKinney, step daughter Peggy McIntyre, and step son Robert Hamilton.

Memorial donations in honor of Dale are encouraged to Indian River Ambulance Service.

Mary F. Finley

Mary F. (Pridell) Finley, age 91, of Gouverneur, passed away on December 11, 2023 at North Country Nursing and Rehabilitation in Massena, N.Y.

Her service will be held in the spring. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home in Gouverneur. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Mary was born on March 22, 1932 in Carthage to the late William and Geraldine (Haywood) Pridell. She graduated from Antwerp High School in 1950 and married Owen X. Finley, Sr. on August 23, 1950. Mr. Finley passed away on October 31, 1984.

Mrs. Finley worked for the Gouverneur-Tribune Press for many years; 25 years as a proofreader. She worked as a nanny for several local families, most recently the family of Cyril and Dr. Marlene Mouaikel of Watertown, NY. She was “Grandma Mary” to their children Charlie, Marialena, and Mia.

Mary’s family was of the utmost importance to her. Supporting and nurturing her family brought her much joy. She loved family gatherings. Mary excelled at cooking and baking; well-known for her donuts and pies. She enjoyed playing Yahtzee and cards, especially Rook, with her husband and their friends; in later years with her daughters and Cindy Lord, who she thought of like a daughter. Watching TV Westerns and soap operas, and listening to classic country music were some of her favorite past-times.

Mary is survived by 5 children, Roxann Finley of Gouverneur, Owen X. Finley, Jr. (Karola) of El Paso, TX, Julie Strough of Gouverneur, Barbara Wicks of Gouverneur, and Brenda Kluttz (Danny) of Harrisburg, NC. She is also survived by 7 grandchildren, Shawn, Stefanie, Shea, Selena, Ryan, Steelson, and Trisha, and great-grandchildren, Zachary, Angel, Colin, Alyssa, Kylie, Ashlyn, Mia, Zoe, Lula, and Afton, and has 2 more on the way.

She is predeceased by her husband, Owen Finley, Sr., and siblings, John Pridell, Allen Pridell, and Theresa Phelps.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude’s Childrens Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN 38105, Gouverneur Breast Cancer Fund, PO Box 64, Gouverneur NY 13642, or the Gouverneur Rescue Squad, PO Box 164, Gouverneur NY 13642.

James E. “Jim” Bowhall

James E. “Jim” Bowhall, 82, passed away on Wednesday, December 13, 2023 at Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center in Ogdensburg.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, December 16th from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm with a funeral service at 1:00 pm at the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur with Rev. Ben Lalka, pastor of Gouverneur Methodist Church officiating and burial to follow in Hailesboro Cemetery. A gathering will follow the burial at the Gouverneur Community Center.

James was born on April 26, 1941 in Gouverneur, the son of Carl and Nettie (Lucas) Bowhall.

He graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1959 and raised his family in Gouverneur.

Jim married Gail Jones on April 17, 1971 at the Gouverneur United Methodist Church with Rev. Donald Dodds officiating.

He worked many years delivering fuel to local homes with McCallister’s Oil Company, the Augsbury Company, Bush Fuel Company, and Agway Fuel Company. He was also a partner in Gouverneur Bowl, retiring in 2017.

Jim enjoyed bowling, spending time at the family cottage on Pleasant Lake, cheering on the New York Yankees, and attending the events of his children and grandchildren. He was also civic minded, having served on the Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce, Gouverneur Cemetery Association, prison advisory board, Gouverneur Village Board and Planning Board.

Jim is survived by his wife Gail, his children Jay and Marion Bowhall, Carla Bishop and her companion Steve Makuch, Jill and Shawn Beaulieu, Karen and Ken Calton, 8 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, his brother Lee Bowhall, and his son-in-law Bart Bishop.

Memorial donations in honor of Jim are suggested to the Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce or Gouverneur Cemetery Association.

Cindy L. King

Cindy L. King, 55, passed away on Wednesday, December 6, 2023 at her home at Cambray Terrace in Gouverneur.

A celebration of life was held on Thursday, December 14th at 2:00 pm at the community room of Cambray Terrace.

Cindy was born in Camp Lejune, NC on January 8, 1968, the daughter of Johnnie and Julie (Cobb) Crumpley.

She graduated from high school and attended a technical school for employment training.

Cindy worked several years as a nurse until she had to retire due to her health. She lived in Texas most her life until moving to the North Country a few years ago.

She enjoyed crocheting, watching soap operas, spending time with her friends and family.

Cindy is survived by her children Allison Brannan and her fiancé William Laflamme III of Gouverneur, Jack Crumpley and his wife Jocelyn Page of Texas, James Brannan and his wife Samantha of Texas, her grandson whom she raised Johnnie Crumpley II and his companion Alayna Russell of Potsdam, several grandchildren, a great granddaughter, a brother Jay, nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her parents and a brother Johnnie.

Memorial donations to honor Cindy are encouraged to Friends 4 Pound Paws, PO Box 394, Gouverneur, NY 13642.

Service Notice: James “Jim” Bowhall, 82

James “Jim” Bowhall, 82, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday at Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center, Ogdensburg. Calling hours are on Saturday, December 16, from 11 am-1 pm with a funeral service at 1 pm at the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur. A gathering will follow the burial at the Gouverneur Community Center.



Dale D. LaMay Sr.

Dale D. LaMay Sr., 80, passed away on Thursday, November 30, 2023 at Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center in Ogdensburg.

Dale was born in Potsdam on March 21, 1943, the son of Roy M. and Hilda (Layaw) LaMay.

He had worked as a cook and enjoyed cooking, having a rum and coke occasionally, and his true passion was fishing. Dale was a friendly soul and was known to crack a joke or two.

Dale is survived by his children Dale LaMay Jr., Debbie Jones, and Tanya Brown, several grandchildren and great grandchildren, a sister Marlene Wood, nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, his sons Jason Carter and Roy LaMay, great-grandson Jakari LaMay, brothers John LaMay and Butch LaMay.

Memorial donations in honor of Dale are encouraged to Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Jumbos on Saturday, December 9, 4pm-6pm.