Julie "Kim" Cornell

August 5, 1957 - December 26, 2014

ONEONTA - Julie "Kim" Cornell, 57, of Oneonta, passed away Friday, December 26, 2014, at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown with her family by her side.

Kim was born August 5, 1957, in San Diego, CA, a daughter of Donald W. and Betty Jean Wadley Cornell.

Kim grew up in Memphis, TN, and relocated to New York State in the late 1980s, but never lost her southern accent. Kim loved to travel and was involved in various church organizations. An avid Waltons and I Love Lucy fan, Kim collected Shirley Temple memorabilia and refrigerator magnets and also enjoyed singing songs from The Sound of Music and Mary Poppins.  

Kim is survived by her daughter  Haley and grandson Hunter; father Donald and step mother Kendra; brothers Donnie, Zane, Travis and his wife Kristin; sisters Patricia and Evelyn of Memphis, and Lacey; nephews Marshall, Zane Michael, Jacob and Dalton; niece Morgan and great niece Ava; and several nieces and nephews residing in Memphis.  

She is predeceased by her mother Betty Jean and brother Donald Carl.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2015, from 1-5 p.m. at the Grand Gorge Firehouse.

Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown.


If you would like to send condolences to the family, send an email to Connell, Dow & Deysenroth. We will forward your comments to the family. If you would like to send flowers in memory of the deceased, contact Mohican Flowers at (607) 547-8822, or A Rose is a Rose at (607) 264-3100.

Ernest D. Woodin

January 24, 1933 - December 25, 2014

COOPERSTOWN - Ernest D. Woodin passed away Thursday evening, December 25, 2014, at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown. He was 81. 

Born on January 24, 1933, in Marseilles, Illinois, Ernie was the third of five children of Eugene and Helen née Morey Woodin. He graduated from Marseilles High School in 1951 where he served as class president. The first in his family to have the opportunity to attend college, he earned his Associate Degree in 1953 at LaSalle-Peru-Oglesby (LPO) Junior College, where he studied pre-veterinary science while working for a local veterinarian. He then went on to attend the University of Illinois but was forced to withdraw after suffering an injury to his foot, and was drafted into the United States Army. Stationed in Germany, he proudly served his country as a water supply specialist with the H&S Co. 5th Engineer Battalion and received his honorable discharge from the military in December 1955.

Following his military service, Ernest embarked on an 18-year career with the phone company starting out as a lineman for Illinois Bell. After successfully completing a test for programming aptitude, he rose from programmer to programming manager, which in turn led to him becoming a programming instructor. In 1964, Ernie came to Cooperstown and taught programming courses for the AT&T Company's Data Communications Training Program held at the Otesaga Hotel. He and his family returned to Illinois in 1966, and later moved to Somerset, New Jersey, where he was "on loan" to Bell Labs. In March of 1972, the Woodins returned to Cooperstown, where Ernest became employed at Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in the computer department. He served for many years as the Director of Hospital Information Systems and retired from Bassett in the Spring of 1990.  

Ernest is survived by his wife of 57 years, Arlene née Viviani. They were married in their hometown of Marseilles, Illinois, on December 21, 1957. He is further survived by their two children, Beth Torruella and her husband, Reese, of Garner, North Carolina, and Alan Woodin and his wife, Allison, of Cobleskill; three grandchildren, Connor and Logan Torruella and Erika Woodin; a sister, Helen Peek of Ottawa, Illinois, and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Martin and Richard, and a sister, Marlene.

Ernest had a life-long love of country living and was skilled at making things with his hands. A master carpenter and woodworker, he built his families first home in Illinois, a garage in Cooperstown, and "Bennie the Burrow", a rocking horse he crafted for his grandchildren. His family will also cherish many other pieces he carved throughout his life. In addition to working with wood, he enjoyed gardening, his Schnauzers and seeing draft horses at the fair. He was a proud "Pa Pa" and spoke often of the accomplishments of his grandchildren in the arts, sports and the classroom. Ernest will be remembered by those who loved him for his desire to take on new challenges. Overall he was truly a great man who lead a wonderful life.   

Services will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family.

For those who wish to make a memorial gift in memory of Ernest, his family suggests that the following organizations be considered:  Cooperstown Emergency Squad, P.O. Box 322, Cooperstown, NY  13326 or Friends of Bassett for the benefit of Bassett Medical Center, 1 Atwell Road, Cooperstown, NY  13326.  

Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown.


If you would like to send condolences to the family, send an email to Connell, Dow & Deysenroth. We will forward your comments to the family. If you would like to send flowers in memory of the deceased, contact Mohican Flowers at (607) 547-8822, or A Rose is a Rose at (607) 264-3100.

Francis J. Marr

August 2, 1928 - December 14, 2014

COOPERSTOWN - Francis Jay Marr, a life-long area resident, died Sunday evening, December 14, 2014, at Focus Rehabilitation and Nursing Center at Otsego. He was 86.

Born August 2, 1928, at home in the Town of Burlington, Francis was raised and lived in several different areas around Hartwick. In his youth, he attended district schools, beginning with the Potter School and later the White House School.

On March 9, 1957, Francis married the former Barbara E. Race at the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hartwick Seminary. 

Francis' first full-time job was working on Stephen King's farm just south of Cooperstown. After working for several other area farms, Francis went to work in 1958 at Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown. For 35 years, he was employed in housekeeping, distributing linen and making sure bedding got to patients when they needed it. As a Bassett employee once wrote, "He is the Rock of Gibraltar" and one of those behind the scenes people who made Bassett Hospital go. Besides a near spotless attendance record at work, the other profound thing about Francis were his feet. Undaunted by rain, sleet, snow or dark of night, he walked the three miles from his home in Toddsville to work and back several times a week, something he did ever since he started at the hospital.  He never got a driver's license and even though he hopped an occasional ride to work, foot power remained his preferred means of travel.  

He will be remembered as a soft spoken, amiable person who spoke through his actions.

Francis is survived by one son, Paul Francis Marr of Unadilla; four sisters, Dorothy Knapp and her husband, Anson, of Milford, Alma Baker of Cooperstown, Virginia Rathbun of Schenectady and Elaine Himes of Manassas, Virginia; and many nieces and nephews, including a special nephew, Dennis Baker, who provided Francis with so much care in his final years.

He was predeceased by his wife of 44 years, Barbara Marr, who died March 20, 2001; one brother, Frederick E. Marr who died December 27, 1993; and one sister, Helen Lincourt who died August 31, 1996.

A memorial service will be offered at 11a.m. on Friday, December 19, 2014, at the Hartwick Christian Church with the Rev. Laverne H. Saxer, pastor, officiating.

Burial will be private at a later date in Hartwick Seminary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, Francis' family suggests that memorial gifts be made to the Arc of Otsego County, P. O. Box 490, Oneonta, NY 13820.

Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown.  


If you would like to send condolences to the family, send an email to Connell, Dow & Deysenroth. We will forward your comments to the family. If you would like to send flowers in memory of the deceased, contact Mohican Flowers at (607) 547-8822, or A Rose is a Rose at (607) 264-3100.

Ruth A. Covert

November 8, 1933 - December 7, 2014

HARTWICK - Ruth Ann Covert, 81, passed away Sunday morning, December 7, 2014, at her home on West Hill surrounded by her family.

She was born November 8, 1933, in Paterson, New Jersey, a daughter of Girard and Florence (Muller) Schilling.

On September 22, 1956, she married Robert Ellis Covert in Wyckoff, New Jersey.

Throughout her life, Ruth enjoyed gardening, reading, knitting and animals. An avid Bingo player, she could be seen on Tuesdays at Bingo at the Elks Club in Oneonta. She and Bob enjoyed their life on the West Hill Toy Farm, and were active members of the Wanderers and Reminiscers Car Clubs. Ruth will be fondly remembered as a Mom to many kids. 

She is survived by her husband of 58 years, Bob, of Hartwick; one son and daughter-in-law, Michael K. and Terry Covert of Hartwick; one daughter and son-in-law, Kathleen and Jon Sammis of Petersham, Massachusetts; her faithful caregiver and friend, Deborah Wengert; three granddaughters, Colleen Witter and husband, Jason, of Hartwick, Dana Conte and husband, Nathan, of Hartwick, and Lisa Covert and companion, Jason Rashkow of Stony Brook, Long Island; one great grandson, Joseph Conte; a brother, William Schilling and companion, Marilyn Dougherty, of Hartwick; two sisters-in-law; and several nieces and nephews.

Service will be private at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial gift to Catskill Area Hospice & Palliative Care, 1 Birchwood Drive, Oneonta, NY  13820 or Hartwick Emergency Squad, P.O. Box 208, Hartwick, NY  13348 or Susquehanna Animal Shelter, 4841 State Highway 28, Cooperstown, NY  13326.

Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown.


If you would like to send condolences to the family, send an email to Connell, Dow & Deysenroth. We will forward your comments to the family. If you would like to send flowers in memory of the deceased, contact Mohican Flowers at (607) 547-8822, or A Rose is a Rose at (607) 264-3100.

Fred Dykstra

June 29, 1929 - December 4, 2014

COOPERSTOWN - Fred Dykstra, a realtor, builder, farmer and family man,  passed away late Thursday night, December 4, 2014, at his home in the Town of Hartwick. He was 85.

Born June 29, 1929, in Upper Saddle River, New Jersey, he was one of 10 children of Richard and Frances (Minnema) Dykstra. Raised in New Jersey, he was a graduate of Ramsey High School.

After high school, Fred entered into active service with the United States Marine Corps and proudly served his country during the Korean War. He received his honorable discharge from the military having attained the rank of Lance Corporal. 

In 1957 Fred married Fernande "Nonnie" Deligny in Monsey.

Fred and Nonnie moved from Campbell Hall in 1977 and settled in the Cooperstown area. They owned and operated Otsego Hills Farm in Pierstown until 1986, when he started Dykstra Construction, Inc. with his sons, Fred and Karl. This company builds fine homes in the Cooperstown area.  

Fred always loved boating, fishing and most of all cherished time spent with family and friends. He will be remembered for honesty, vision and determination.

Fred is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Nonnie, of Cooperstown; three sons and their families: Fred Dykstra, Jr., wife Lorrie and children Vanessa and Trenton; Karl Dykstra, wife Catherine and children Karl, William, Julie and Elizabeth; and Eric Dykstra, wife Maureen and daughters Victoria and Olivia; three daughters: Joanne Osterhoudt, husband Bruce and children Justin, Amanda, Lucas and Cassandra; Jeanine Harter, husband Jason and daughter Janelle; and Jerilynn Bachanas, husband Bruce and his daughters Whitney, Kelsey, and Lillian, and Whitney's son, Connor.  

He is further survived by one brother, Robert "Bob" Dykstra and wife Meredith;  one sister, Frances Butscher, and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by six brothers, Frank, John, Peter, Tunis, Sidney ("Sid") and Richard ("Hick") Dykstra, Jr.; and one sister, Jeanette Shuart.

Fred's family will receive friends at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown, on Saturday morning, December 13, 2014, from 10 a.m. until 12Noon.

A Funeral Service will be offered at the funeral home at 12 Noon on Saturday, with the Rev. William H. Delia, pastor of the Cooperstown United Methodist Church, officiating.

Burial will be private at a later date next spring in the Fly Creek Valley Cemetery in Fly Creek.  

As an alternative to flowers, memorial gifts may be directed to Hartwick Emergency Squad, P.O. Box 208, Hartwick, NY  13348, Susquehanna Animal Shelter, 4841 State Highway 28, Cooperstown, NY  13326, or Catskill Area Hospice & Palliative Care, 1 Birchwood Drive, Oneonta, NY  13820. 

Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown. 


If you would like to send condolences to the family, send an email to Connell, Dow & Deysenroth. We will forward your comments to the family. If you would like to send flowers in memory of the deceased, contact Mohican Flowers at (607) 547-8822, or A Rose is a Rose at (607) 264-3100.

Michael Howard Jennings

June 3, 1975 - November 21, 2014

Michael Howard Jennings, 39, of Albuquerque passed away in his home, November 21, 2014.

He was born June 3, 1975 at Bassett Hospital to Ronald and Edith (Ainslie) Jennings of Cooperstown, NY. He graduated from Cooperstown Central High School in 1994. He attended Tompkins County Community College, and in 2000 he graduated magna cum laude from SUNY Potsdam with degrees in Anthropology, Archeology, and Business.

Upon graduation, he was employed at Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest as a Landscape Archeologist, where he worked until 2002. He was then employed as a scientist by the New York State Museum. Until 2007, he worked as a Project Manager for Lone Tree Archeology and Environmental Inc. In 2007 he began work with HDR, Inc., in Albuquerque, where he was the Archeological Project Manager / Marketing Director of Cultural Resources. 

His work took him to several locations, including the South Pacific where he discovered a previously unknown Japanese bunker, Denali National Park in Alaska, and White Sands, New Mexico. He led an archeological survey along the Rio Grande which resulted in the discovery of 22 archeological sites, spanning historic and prehistoric periods of South Texas. He was Project manager in Huoma, Louisiana and Mobile, Alabama  and co-lead for the States of Alabama, Florida, and Mississippi and one of several scientists responsible for assisting members of the Shoreline Clean-up Technique team (SCAT) to assess and evaluate cultural resources along the shorelines impacted by the April 20, 2010 Deepwater Horizon drilling rig explosion.

He authored many articles which were published in several Archeological digests.

He was a member of the American Cultural Resources Association, Lambda Alpha National Collegiate Honors Society for Anthropology, and was a Cultural Resource Consultant for the Historic Preservation Division of the State Historic Preservation Office, Bernalillo County, New Mexico. 

He was very active in his community, and inspired others to do the same. He was very close to people in To'Hajiilee Native American Indian Reservation and ensured that he supported their families and youth. He was passionate about helping them. He coordinated toy drives for the community each year and most recently he coordinated a back to school drive for the students. He was also active with the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life.

He enjoyed restoring antiques and building furniture, many of which he gave to his family as gifts. He was an avid sports fan, and could be found every Sunday watching a game. He was also a talented home-brewer, and enjoyed visiting microbreweries. Michael also enjoyed traveling. His travels took him throughout the US and South America, including Guatemala and Mexico. 

He is survived by his parents, his sister and brother-in-law Teresa and Peter Russo, his nephew and godson Nicholas and his niece and goddaughter Maeghan, of Burglengenfeld, Germany. He is also survived by many loving friends and family around the world. 

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made in Michael’s name to your local SPCA, American Cancer Society Relay for Life, food pantry, or the charity of your choice. 

On Sunday December 7, we will be remembering the life of Michael Jennings. Calling hours will be at the Cooperstown United Methodist Church on Chestnut Street at 1:00, with a service in the sanctuary at 2:00 immediately followed by a reception in the fellowship hall.


If you would like to send condolences to the family, send an email to Connell, Dow & Deysenroth. We will forward your comments to the family. If you would like to send flowers in memory of the deceased, contact Mohican Flowers at (607) 547-8822, or A Rose is a Rose at (607) 264-3100.

Irene A. Wilfeard

March 19, 1924 - November 27, 2014

COOPERSTOWN - Irene Ada Wilfeard, 90, passed away Thanksgiving Day, November 27, 2014, at the Focus Rehabilitation and Nursing Center at Otsego.  

Born in the United Kingdom March 19, 1924, in the Acton District of West London, England, she was the daughter of Bernard and Irene Edith Childs.  

During World War II, she met Herbert B. Wilfeard, who was serving with the United States Army. Proud to be a "war bride", Irene married Herbert on June 2, 1945, in a ceremony at St. Dunstan's Church in East Acton, London. Irene stayed another year in England, and then moved to the United States to join her husband, becoming a United States citizen in 1956.

The Wilfeards first resided in Rochester and later moved to the Cooperstown area. She was employed by the Campbell Estate as head of housekeeping for Dorothy and Joseph Campbell and later Judy and W.T. Sampson Smith. She then went to work as a nurse's aide at the Clara Welch Thanksgiving Home, where she enjoyed working with Patricia Taugher and Irene Kelly.  

A member of the Native Daughters of Cooperstown, she was a former member of the Pierstown Grange and the Fly Creek Volunteer Fire Department Women's Auxiliary. 

Her family will always remember her stories of growing up in England, including how she and her family dealt with the hardships of World War II. Perhaps one of Irene's fondest memories was when she was formally introduced to the Queen Mother.

Irene always loved being with her children and grandchildren. She is survived by three daughters and sons-in-law, Nedena and Ronald Swift of Worcester, Holly and Edward Pearsall of Newport, and Peggy and Alan Basile of Cooperstown; two sons and three daughters-in-law, David M. and Elizabeth Wilfeard of Cooperstown, Bradley K. and Kathleen Wilfeard of Burlington Flats, and Judy P. Wilfeard of Massachusetts; nine grandchildren, Andrea Wilfeard, Ashlie and fiancé, Albert Dawson, Jon-Michael and David Wilfeard II, Ronald F. Swift, Jr. and wife, Kerri, Aaron Pearsall,  Ashley Schook and husband, David, Bernard L. Wilfeard, Jr. ("BJ") and wife, Jessica, and Renee Duda and husband, Brian;  seven great grandchildren, Katelynn Fairchild, Tyler Wilfeard, Bernard L. Wilfeard III ("Trey"), Hunter Wilfeard,  Kelsey Swift,  Caleb Swift and Mary Lynn Nedena Mattison; her niece, Rita, and her two daughters, Danielle and Cassandra, of England; and one great great grandson, Gabriel.  

She was predeceased by her husband, Herbert B. Wilfeard, who died February 4, 1983; a son, Bernard Leigh Wilfeard, who died October 21, 1999; a grandson, Brian Keith Wilfeard, who died at birth on November 10, 1970; and a brother, Roy Whiting, and his wife, Doris.

A graveside service will be offered in the Spring of 2015 in Fly Creek Valley Cemetery, with the Rev. Betsy Jay, Chaplain at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown, officiating.

There will be no calling hours.

Memorial gifts may be directed to the Susquehanna Animal Shelter, 4841 State Highway 28, Cooperstown, NY  13326.

Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown.


If you would like to send condolences to the family, send an email to Connell, Dow & Deysenroth. We will forward your comments to the family. If you would like to send flowers in memory of the deceased, contact Mohican Flowers at (607) 547-8822, or A Rose is a Rose at (607) 264-3100.

Bernice G. Bachanas

December 4, 1930 - November 6, 2014

FLY CREEK - Bernice G. Bachanas, 83, of Fly Creek, died Thursday afternoon, November 6, 2014, at her home on Goose Street. 

She was born December 4, 1930, in the family home on Harry Roseboom Road in  Westville, one of 13 children of Harry and Lucy (Pratt) Roseboom.

After graduating from Milford High School with the Class of 1948, she was employed for a time at J.J. Newberry's on Main Street in Cooperstown. It was there that she met her future husband, Norman "Bub" Edmund Bachanas (who was extremely shy!).

On June 20, 1953, Bernice married Norm in a ceremony at St. Mary's "Our Lady of the Lake" Roman Catholic Church in Cooperstown.

For many years, she was employed as a cook in the central kitchen for the Otsego County Sheriff's Department in Cooperstown.

Bernice was an active member for over 50 years of the Fly Creek Volunteer Fire Company Ladies' Auxiliary. For an equal amount of time, she also served with the Otsego County Board of Elections, and at election time was a familiar face at the voting booths.

In her leisure, she enjoyed playing cards and tending to her flower gardens. Most of all, she loved spending time with her family, especially camping and the vacation that took place just about every August which provided many great memories over the years.  

Bernice is survived by three children, Jane Bachanas and her partner, John Knapp, of Schuyler Lake, Bruce Bachanas and his wife, Jerilynn, of Christian Hill, and Michael Bachanas and his partner, Laura Duncan, of Richfield Springs; seven grandchildren, Alex Hawxhurst, Whitney, Kelsey and Lillian Bachanas, Mariah and Mackenzie Bachanas, and Paige Cooper; one great grandson, Connor Freeman; one brother, Donald Roseboom and his wife, Alice, of Georgia and formerly of Toddsville; many, many, many nieces and nephews; numerous friends; and an extremely faithful, furry companion, "Bub", her kitty cat.  

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, "Bub," (who affectionately called her "Bersie") who died July 7, 2006. She was also predeceased by five sisters, Rena C. Short, Dorothy A. Smith, Mary Broas, Bertha Teachout, and Grace Roseboom; and six brothers, F. Arthur, Paul, Robert, Stanley, Freeman and Leon Roseboom.

A graveside service will be offered at 1 p.m. on Friday, November 14, 2014, in the Fly Creek Valley Cemetery, Cemetery Road, Fly Creek. The service will be led by a nephew, Ron Smith, who will offer the eulogy. A niece, Ramona, will sing "A Coat of Many Colors," accompanied by a nephew, Eugene.  

In lieu of flowers, the Bachanas family kindly suggests that memorial gifts be directed to the Fly Creek Emergency Squad or the Fly Creek Volunteer Fire Company, P.O. Box 218, Fly Creek, NY  13337, or Catskill Area Hospice and Palliative Care, 1 Birchwood Drive, Oneonta, NY  13820.

Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown.


If you would like to send condolences to the family, send an email to Connell, Dow & Deysenroth. We will forward your comments to the family. If you would like to send flowers in memory of the deceased, contact Mohican Flowers at (607) 547-8822, or A Rose is a Rose at (607) 264-3100.

Christopher W. Hoyt

January 1, 1942 - October 30, 2014

SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY - Mr. Christopher William Hoyt, 72, died Thursday evening, October 30, 2014, at his home in Saratoga Springs, NY, surrounded by his family following a brief but valiant battle with cancer.

Born January 1, 1942, Chris was the first baby born in the New Year at Norwalk Hospital in Norwalk, CT.  He was the son of William Bradford Hoyt and Mary Raymond Lynch Hoyt, who were natives of Connecticut.

In his youth he attended the Holderness School in Plymouth, NH, where he played on the football team. He then attended Union College, graduating with a bachelor of science degree in electrical engineering and psychology. 

On August 24, 1963, Chris married Linda Morehouse Albin in a ceremony at the First Methodist Church on West Avenue in South Norwalk, CT.

For many years, Chris was employed as a sales engineer for General Electric. He and Linda and their children, Kimberly and Christopher, lived in many places throughout the country, including New York, Connecticut, Michigan, New Jersey and Massachusetts. They lived the longest of any place in Ramsey, NJ, where the Hoyts were very active in their church and community. 

In 2002, Chris retired from GE in Albany; Chris and Linda settled in the home they built in Saratoga Springs, NY. Through the years, he and Linda enjoyed tending to their homes and gardens, and especially enjoyed the ponds they built on the hillside behind their house in Saratoga Springs.

For many years, Chris was actively involved with the Hatch and Bailey Company in South Norwalk, CT.  A residential and commercial construction supply company founded by his family in 1872, he was currently serving as Secretary of the Board of Directors.  

An accomplished sailor, Chris always enjoyed being out on the water whenever he could. In later years, Chris and Linda took great pleasure in sailing their 38' catamaran many places along the eastern seaboard. Chris and Linda also enjoyed playing golf, tennis and travelling together throughout the world. 

Chris is survived by his wife of 51 years, Linda, of Saratoga Springs; a daughter, Kimberly Betts Hoyt Dallon and her husband, David, of New Jersey; a son, Christopher William Hoyt, Jr., and his wife, Laura, of Virginia; and five grandchildren, Kyle William Dallon, William Alexander Hoyt, Andrew Bennett Hoyt, Aiden Christopher Hoyt, and Nina Isabella Hoyt.

He is further survived by three sisters and their husbands, Caroline and Michael Sicilian of Stamford, CT, Betts and Bud Bain of Rowayton, CT, and Margo and Richard Lepore of North Carolina; as well as many, many nieces and nephews.   

A memorial service will be offered at 10 a.m. on Saturday, November 8, 2014, at the Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church, 175 5th Avenue, Saratoga Springs, NY, with Rev. Heather Williams, Senior Pastor and Rev. Drew Sperry, Pastor, officiating.  

As an alternative to flowers, the Hoyt family kindly suggests that memorial gifts be made to Yaddo Garden Association, P.O. Box 395, Saratoga Springs, NY  12866, or Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church, 175 5th Avenue, Saratoga Springs, NY  12866.

Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown, NY. 


If you would like to send condolences to the family, send an email to Connell, Dow & Deysenroth. We will forward your comments to the family. If you would like to send flowers in memory of the deceased, contact Mohican Flowers at (607) 547-8822, or A Rose is a Rose at (607) 264-3100.

Jane B. Curtis

May 6, 1923 - October 26, 2014

COOPERSTOWN - Jane B. Curtis, 91, a long-time resident of Cooperstown, died Sunday morning, October 26, 2014, at Focus Rehabilitation and Nursing Center at Otsego.

Born May 6, 1923, in Rome, New York, Jane was one of eight children of Elmer and Arabella (Perry) Boyson.

After high school Jane attended the Logan College of Chiropractic in St. Louis, Missouri, where she met fellow student, Laverne A. Curtis. They were wed on January 6, 1945.

After brief stays in a few different towns in the Midwest, they settled in Cooperstown in 1948 in a home on Main Street. After six years the family spent the next two years living in various locations in New York State, returning to Cooperstown and settling on Chestnut Street. For many years, Jane served as a Unit Clerk at the Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown where she eventually retired. 

In 1957, Jane and her family became members of the First Presbyterian Church of Cooperstown where she was active in the Women's Fellowship.

Jane is survived by eldest son Gary and his wife, Mary, of Sunnyvale, Texas, daughter Holly McDonough and her husband, Tim, of Durham, North Carolina, son Jeffry and his wife, Diane, of Keystone Heights, Florida, and son Dr. Robert Curtis, D.C., of Long Beach, California. Also surviving are nine grandchildren, Todd Curtis and his wife Jennifer, Jill (Curtis) Foye and her husband Brian, Melissa Nixon, Joseph, Elizabeth, Kevin and Owen McDonough, Jenny Grill and Krissi (Grill) Campbell; four great grandchildren, Victoria and Zachary Curtis, and Landry and Austin Foye; one brother, Herbert Boyson of San Antonio, Texas, as well as many nieces and nephews and their children and grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her husband of 52 years, Dr. Laverne A. Curtis, D.C., who died May 8, 1997, and six siblings. 

A Memorial Service to the Glory of God in Thanksgiving for the Life of Jane B. Curtis will be offered at 2 p.m. Saturday, November 1, 2014, in the sanctuary of the First Presbyterian Church of Cooperstown, with the Rev. Elsie Armstrong Rhodes, pastor, officiating. The service will be followed by a reception in the adjoining Chapel.  

As an alternative to flowers, Jane's family suggests that those who so desire may make memorial gifts in her memory to Logan College of Chiropractic at Logan University, 1851 Schoettler Road, Chesterfield. Missouri 63017.

Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown.


If you would like to send condolences to the family, send an email to Connell, Dow & Deysenroth. We will forward your comments to the family. If you would like to send flowers in memory of the deceased, contact Mohican Flowers at (607) 547-8822, or A Rose is a Rose at (607) 264-3100.

Kittie Leslie Johnson

August 4, 1957 - October 17, 2014

MIDDLEFIELD - Kittie Leslie Johnson, a local folk artist of Middlefield, died peacefully at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown, New York, on October 17th 2014.

Kittie was born in Oswego County, Fulton, New York, on August 4th, 1957, the daughter of Rodney Erwin and Elizabeth Jeanne Johnson.

Upon graduation from SUNY Oneonta in the spring of 1980 with a degree in Fine Arts, she pursued painting full time. Kittie was a familiar face at local art shows and across the entire Northeast, displaying images of an earlier time. As a decorative painter, her commissions varied from small commemorative pieces to decorated furniture and full size room murals.

She was a longtime member of Cooper Country Crafts as well as other local artist groups. She was also very active as a volunteer at Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital and Otsego Manor, visiting, and encouraging countless individuals.

Kittie was a member of both the Emmons and Cooperstown Junction United Methodist Church, where she frequently played the organ as well as the flute.

She was well known for her generosity when it came to helping out both local charities and rallying special causes. As a cancer survivor herself, she could always be found at the Relay for Life events across the region. 

Kittie delighted countless numbers of shut-ins with colorful Easter Baskets and Christmas presents.

She was predeceased by her parents, Rodney Erwin and Elizabeth Jeanne Johnson, her brother, Kevin Johnson, and Roy Johnson, her uncle.

Surviving are her sister, Karen Rury (Edward) and their children, Sarah, Jessica (Jason) and Jonathan (Maura); her brother Mark Johnson (Gina) and children Matthew Carr (Heather), Benjamin and Samuel; her brother Seth Johnson (Doreen) and their children, Jessica, Scott (Amanda) and Weston. She is further survived by grand nieces and nephews Cameran Flint, Elliot and Aidan Rury, Nathan Rury, and Gabriel and Logan Johnson.

A Celebration of Life and Memorial Service will be offered at 2 pm on Saturday, November 8, 2014, at the United Methodist Church at Cooperstown Junction, with the Rev'd. Dr. Charles J. Curley officiating.

Kittie will be laid to rest in the family plot in the Ira Union Cemetery on White Cemetery Road in Bowens Corners.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the United Methodist Church and earmarked for either Emmons or Cooperstown Junction. All gifts should be addressed to Karen Rury, P.O. Box 85, Cherry Valley, NY  13320.

Arrangements are with the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown.  


If you would like to send condolences to the family, send an email to Connell, Dow & Deysenroth. We will forward your comments to the family. If you would like to send flowers in memory of the deceased, contact Mohican Flowers at (607) 547-8822, or A Rose is a Rose at (607) 264-3100.

Richard W. Roediger

September 26, 1929 - September 28, 2014

RICHFIELD SPRINGS - Richard ("Rick") William Roediger, formerly of Richfield Springs, New York, and Spring Hill, Florida, passed away Sunday, September 28, 2014, with his family by his side at Valley Health Services in Herkimer, New York. He was 85.

Born September 26, 1929, at Jersey City Hospital in New Jersey, he was the son of Otto Richard and Hattie Sophie (Wassermeyer) Roediger. When he was young, his mother died unexpectedly, and her sister, Anna Wassermeyer, raised him and his sister, Anita, in Bergen, New Jersey.   

On March 19, 1955, he married Dorothy Marie Romaine in Teaneck, New Jersey. They lived in Park Ridge, New Jersey, then Hackensack, New Jersey. 

An auto mechanic by trade, Rick worked at Ford Motor Company in Mahwah, New Jersey, from 1955 until the plant closed. After moving to Warwick, New York, he worked as a shop mechanic at Stanley Chrysler Plymouth, and then relocated his family to Exeter, New York, in the early 1970s, working at Smith Ford and Don's Ford.   

Following his retirement from the auto industry, Rick and Dot pursued their lifelong passion of buying and selling collectibles and antiques. They owned and operated Wagon Wheel Antiques on US Highway 20 in Richfield Springs, New York, where they lived from 1980 to 1994. Rick was never at a loss for words and could talk "shop" for hours. After wintering in the south for a number of years, they moved to Spring Hill, Florida.  

Rick is survived by his wife of 59 years, Dot, of Clinton, New York; a devoted daughter, Diane Wells and her partner, Rob Fiorentino, of Springfield Center, New York; six grandchildren, Amber Lange and husband, Jaret, of West Sand Lake, New York,  David Wells, Jr. and partner, Amy Wells, of West Winfield, New York, Nathan Wells and wife, Viki, of Endicott, New York, Brian Wells and wife, Mandie, of Sidney, New York, Sarah Wells and partner, Jared Carlton, of Edgewater, Florida, Denise Malyana of Florida; and nine great grandchildren, Mia and Sierra Lange, Kazmira Wells, Brian Wells, Jr., Amir and Sami Malyana, Kaylei Brown, Rena Gail Carlton, and Dennis Carlton.

In addition to his parents, Rick was predeceased by Anna Wassermeyer, a daughter, Gail Marie Wells, and a sister, Anita Roberts.

A memorial service will be held at a later date in Spring Hill, Florida.

Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown, New York.


If you would like to send condolences to the family, send an email to Connell, Dow & Deysenroth. We will forward your comments to the family. If you would like to send flowers in memory of the deceased, contact Mohican Flowers at (607) 547-8822, or A Rose is a Rose at (607) 264-3100.

Jennie Lou Wright

June 30, 1945 - September 23, 2014

LAURENS - Jennie Lou Wright, age 69, died Tuesday night, September 23, 2014, at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown.

She was born June 30, 1945, in the Village of Walton, a daughter of Warren D. and Lulu Rose (Watson) Wormsley.  

Throughout her life Jennie enjoyed caring for her home and family as well as camping and visiting Gilbert Lake State Park. The majority of her life was devoted to caring for her son, Phillip - her dedication to him was outstanding in every way.

Jennie is survived by two daughters, Tina Sullivan and her husband, Jeremy, of Fly Creek Valley and Tammy Jones of Otego and a son-in-law, Kevin Jones, of Oneonta; four sons, William Kaiser of Tennessee and his former wife, Trudy, Richard Kaiser of Florida, Shannon Kaiser and his wife, Sandra, of Florida, and Phillip Wright, Jr. of Franklin; 13 grandchildren, Gage-Lee Boecke, Tiffany Boecke Mabie and her husband, Marcus, William Kaiser and his fiancé, Trish Spitzer, Chelsea Kaiser, Kaitelynn Kaiser, Jeremy Kaiser and his wife, Letha, Justin Kaiser and his girlfriend, Sierra Blanton, James Eberling, John Eberling, Theodore (Ted) Jones and his fiancé, Amanda Flannery, Daniel Jones, Quinn Jones, and Casey Jones and her boyfriend, Chris Byrnes; three great grandchildren, Tianna Kaiser, Kira Kaiser and Kaylee Jones; three half sisters, Julia Jymbo of Tokyo, Japan, Phyllis Harris of Sherburne, and Davia Kent of Illinois; a half brother, Gene Wormsley; many, many nieces and nephews; and many aunts and uncles. She is further survived by her long-time friends Tammy, Patty, Kathy, Anita, Michelle and Betsy, and her long-time caregivers, Wendy, Anita and Aliza.

She was predeceased by her father, Warren D. Wormsley, who died March 30, 1993; her mother, Lulu R. Lillie, who died April 12, 2002, and a half sister, Virginia Eynes, who died October 9, 1988. 

Services will be private and at the convenience of the family. 

Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown.


If you would like to send condolences to the family, send an email to Connell, Dow & Deysenroth. We will forward your comments to the family. If you would like to send flowers in memory of the deceased, contact Mohican Flowers at (607) 547-8822, or A Rose is a Rose at (607) 264-3100.

James Lynn Cronkhite

June 16, 1946 - September 10, 2014

COOPERSTOWN - James Lynn Cronkhite, of Cooperstown, and a former resident of Spencer and Fort Plain, passed away Wednesday, September 10, 2014, at the Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio, shortly after undergoing surgery for a persistent medical issue. He was 68.

Jim was the son of George Seward Cronkhite and Anna Mae Nellis, and was born June 16, 1946, in Amsterdam. He grew up on the century old dairy farm in the Fordsbush section of Montgomery County.

Jim graduated from Fort Plain Central School in 1963, where he excelled in both academics and athletics. He lettered in basketball, baseball, soccer and track, served on the Student Council and won first place in the annual science fair competition. Jim was also very active in 4-H, winning numerous prizes at livestock shows, including the annual Junior Livestock Show in Cooperstown.  

A graduate of Ithaca College, Jim first taught physical education, then math and later became an administrator. He last served as athletic director and dean of students in the Spencer-Van Etten Central School District in Tioga County. He also coached basketball, football, girls' volleyball and for 33 years, the boys' varsity baseball team (his favorite sport).

Jim had a friendly and outgoing personality and was always willing to help out a friend or student. He attended The Reformed Church of Fort Plain and was a life-long fan of both the New York Yankees and Giants. He loved to entertain family and friends, play cards, solve puzzles and garden, as well as cross- country ski and travel when he was able.

He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Lorraine Quackenbush Cronkhite, originally of Fort Plain; a brother, Dennis Cronkhite and his wife, Maureen, of Fordsbush; a sister, Patricia Hurley and her husband, Christopher, of Skaneateles; as well as his nieces and nephews, Bryan Cronkhite, Karen Cronkhite, Jennifer Raux (Randy), Christopher Hurley (Megan), and James Hurley (Kate); and a great nephew, Benjamin Raux.  

He was predeceased by his parents. 

Friends may call at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown, on Sunday, September 14, 2014, from 4-6 p.m., when Jim's family will be in attendance.

A Funeral Service will be offered at the funeral home at 11 a.m. on Monday, September 15, 2014, with the Rev. Nancy Ryan, pastor of The Reformed Church of Fort Plain, officiating. Burial will follow in Fort Plain Cemetery.

It is the wish of the family that, in lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Jim be made to the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 3049, Syracuse, NY 13220.

Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown. 


If you would like to send condolences to the family, send an email to Connell, Dow & Deysenroth. We will forward your comments to the family. If you would like to send flowers in memory of the deceased, contact Mohican Flowers at (607) 547-8822, or A Rose is a Rose at (607) 264-3100.

Rose C. Gibson

August 23, 1928 - September 10, 2014

SPRINGFIELD - Rose Catherine Gibson, a long-time resident of the Springfield and Van Hornesville areas, passed away early Wednesday morning, September 10, 2014, at Otsego Manor. She was 86 and had lived a life of love and service.

One of 8 children, Rose was born August 23, 1928, in her aunt's home in New Marshfield, Ohio. Her parents, Mercer Logan Williams and Adelaide (Powell) Williams, were living at that time in Point Pleasant, West Virginia, where Mercer was serving as the superintendent of a high school. The family moved to New Hyde Park on Long Island in 1936 when Mercer accepted a high school science and math position at Sewanhaka High School. Rose grew up in New Hyde Park, and graduated from Sewanhaka High School in 1945. Due to her interest in aviation, she chose to further her education at Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri, received an associate's degree, and then spent the next summer in Mexico City, Mexico, with the Quaker, American Friends Service Committee. She began studies the following Fall at Boston University, but met Charles (Bud) Frederick Gibson of Port Washington, Long Island, and she and her fiancé married October 23, 1948.

Charles and Rose joined together in the aspiration of raising their anticipated family on a dairy farm, and, in 1951, purchased a three-acre property in Huntington Station, Long Island. Charles began correspondence courses in dairy sciences at Long Island Agricultural and Technical Institute in Farmingdale, while Rose gave birth to and raised four sons:  Daniel, William, James and Douglas. In 1958, Rose and Charles sold their Long Island property and moved to Springfield. Charles "interned", working for the Cope family dairy farm for one year, and then as a mechanic for Beadle & Company, Inc. in Richfield Springs while they sought out their "Rosebud" farm, which they finally acquired on Wiltse Hill between Van Hornesville and Springfield in October 1960.

Upon moving to Springfield, Rose became an active and faithful member of the First Presbyterian Church of East Springfield, first serving as a Sunday School teacher and singing in the choir. Rose continued to serve the church for nearly 50 years in many capacities. A highlight was serving as a delegate to General Assembly in Chicago, Illinois, during the tumultuous late 1960s. 

In Van Hornesville, Rose was a Cub Scout Den Mother, a member and one-time president of the PTO, and school board member. A charter member of the Herkimer County Mental Health Association Auxiliary, she served for over 30 years with this organization which sponsored events and gathered gifts for mentally challenged children at group homes throughout Herkimer County.  She was also a member of the National Alliance for Mental Illness.  

Upon the sale of the "home" dairy farm in 1982, Rose worked briefly as a teacher's aide in the Springfield Central School, and then accepted a position in 1984 assisting in the Resource Room at Owen D. Young Central School, where she helped students with reading and other course needs under four teachers until 1992.  

Upon her husband's death in 1992, Rose began to serve at the Duvall Home for Mentally Challenged in Glenwood, Florida, which was strongly affiliated with the Presbyterian Church, during the winters until 2006. She also delivered Meals on Wheels for the Town of Springfield for several years, until her stroke in 2007. Through the Otsego Land Trust, Rose established a conservation easement on 200 acres of their farm in order to preserve its natural characteristics.  

In 2007, Rose moved to Hampshire House in Oneonta to be near several family members. While living there, she adopted and was adopted by the First United Presbyterian Church of Oneonta, The "Red Door" Church, which she faithfully attended and served at until June 2014, when she moved to Otsego Manor.  

In fulfillment of Rose's desire to continue to serve humanity she has donated her body for medical education and research;  her brain has been accepted by Harvard Medical School and her body has been received by the Albany Medical College Anatomical Gift Program. 

Rose was preceded in death by her parents, as well as three of her sisters, Dorothy Wilson, Joanne Pearsall, and Margaret Belger; two of her brothers, Richard Williams and Mercer L. Williams, Jr.; and a son, Douglas W. Gibson.

She is survived by her sister, Barbara LaSalle, of Oneonta; a brother, David Williams, of Bellmore, Long Island; and her sons and their wives and grandchildren: Daniel and Judith Gibson of Ballston Lake and their children, Katie and Charlie, William and Jan Gibson of Cooperstown and their son, Will, and his wife, Emily, and their children Eva and Patrick, James Gibson and his children, Jennifer, Jacob and Rose and her children, Aaliyah and Cory, and Douglas' wife, Jacqueline, and their sons, John and Chris, and many beloved nephews and nieces.  

A Memorial Service is planned for 11 a.m. on Saturday, October 4, 2014, at the First Presbyterian Church of East Springfield.

In lieu of flowers, Rose's family respectfully requests that memorial donations be directed to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, "NAMI - Otsego County Inc.", 3141 County Highway 11, Hartwick, NY  13348, the First Presbyterian Church of East Springfield, P.O. Box 122, East Springfield, NY  13333 or the First United Presbyterian Church, 2 Walling Avenue, Oneonta, NY  13820.

Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown.


If you would like to send condolences to the family, send an email to Connell, Dow & Deysenroth. We will forward your comments to the family. If you would like to send flowers in memory of the deceased, contact Mohican Flowers at (607) 547-8822, or A Rose is a Rose at (607) 264-3100.

Marie Goodrich Gill

WATERVILLE - Marie Goodrich Gill, formerly of Richfield Springs, died early Monday morning, September 8, 2014, at the age 85, at Harding Nursing Home in Waterville.  

Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown.


If you would like to send condolences to the family, send an email to Connell, Dow & Deysenroth. We will forward your comments to the family. If you would like to send flowers in memory of the deceased, contact Mohican Flowers at (607) 547-8822, or A Rose is a Rose at (607) 264-3100.

Eleanor P. Maliszewski

May 23, 1919 - August 31, 2014

HARTWICK - Eleanor P. Maliszewski, a former resident of Long Island who made her home in Hartwick, passed away Sunday morning, August 31, 2014, at Otsego Manor. She was 95.

A native of Long Island, Eleanor was born on May 23, 1919, on the family farm in Hicksville. She was a daughter of Edward and Johanna ( Loeffler) McGunnigle.  

Raised on Long Island, Eleanor was a graduate of Hicksville High School. For many years she was employed as a secretary and bookkeeper for several businesses on Long Island, including Doug East Shop and Car Sales in Huntington.  

On November 8, 1952, she married Joseph George Maliszewski-also a Long Island native-at St. Ignatius Loyola Roman Catholic Church in Hicksville. They settled in Northport where they raised their family. In 1995, Eleanor and Joe moved from Long Island to Hartwick, where they built a home and enjoyed life in the country.

Eleanor dearly loved her grandchildren and great grandchildren and enjoyed spending as much time with them as she could. She also enjoyed knitting, reading and gardening, especially with Joe.   

Of the Roman Catholic faith, she was a communicant of St. Mary's "Our Lady of the Lake" Roman Catholic Church in Cooperstown.

Eleanor's mainstay in life was her family, which includes five daughters and four sons-in-law, Joanne P. Allison of Hartwick, Mary Ellen and Chris Hughes, of Northport, Victoria and Tim West of Hartwick, Patricia and Jeff Altadonna of Centerport, and Christine and Bill Feehan of Aurora, Illinois; eight grandchildren, Joseph Allison and wife, Christie, of Hartwick, Catherine Nagelschmidt and husband, Reid, of Cooperstown, Erin Griffith and husband, Bob, of Hartwick, Christopher J. Hughes and wife, Mollie, of Northport, Ryan West Frable of Hartwick, Timothy West, Jr. and wife, Joelle, of Hartwick, Patrick West, of  Utica, and Thomas West and wife, Carolyn, of the State of Maryland; and eleven great grandchildren, Kaitlin Hughes, Alli May, Madison and Bode Nagelschmidt, Hartland, Lillian, Grace and Ellis Frable, and Shelby, Joseph and Andrew West.  She is further survived by two sisters, Irene Miller of Milford Center and Agnes Ahrens of Flemington, NJ; and one brother, Edward McGunnigle and wife Dorothy of Hicksville, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, Joe, who died January 29, 2006; a son-in-law, Robert Gordon Allison, Jr., who died May 19, 2008; two sisters, Cecelia and Frances McGunnigle; and one brother, Gerald McGunnigle. 

Friends may call at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home on Wednesday, September 3, 2014, from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. when Eleanor's family will be in attendance.  

The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be offered at 11 a.m. on Thursday, September 4, 2014, at St. Mary's "Our Lady of the Lake" Roman Catholic Church in Cooperstown, with Fr. John P. Rosson, pastor, presiding.

The Service of Committal and Burial will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery, Index.

Eleanor's family extends a special thank you to her Manor family for the love and care she received while living there.  

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial gift to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-1905 or Hartwick Fire Department, Co. No. 1, P.O. Box 86, Hartwick, NY 13348.

Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown.


If you would like to send condolences to the family, send an email to Connell, Dow & Deysenroth. We will forward your comments to the family. If you would like to send flowers in memory of the deceased, contact Mohican Flowers at (607) 547-8822, or A Rose is a Rose at (607) 264-3100.

Eric H. Forster

September 18, 1963 - August 18, 2014

I shall enter the very presence of all my guides, 
Those lights of this world who are yet to appear,
Those sequentially turning the wheels of complete awakening,
Those who reveal nirvana - final, perfect peace.

-- from The King of Prayers 

FLY CREEK VALLEY - Eric Henry Forster, age 50, made the transition from this life to the next on August 18, 2014.

Eric entered this life September 18, 1963, at Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown. He was a son of Henry and Frances (Kirby) Forster.

After graduating from high school in 1982, he attended college. He later served his country during the mid-1980s in the United States Navy.

At present he was an organic farmer and assisted his mother on Shadbush Farm in Fly Creek Valley.

A devoted follower of the teachings of Buddha, Eric was a vital part of the Rangjung Yeshe Gomde Meditation Center in Cooperstown. 

Eric is survived by his mother, Frances K. Forster, of Fly Creek Valley; two aunts, Annaliese and Dorothy; an uncle, Allan; and his friends of the Buddhist faith.

He was preceded in death by his father, Henry Forster, and a brother, Mark Forster.

A gathering is being planned and will be held at Shadbush Farm in Fly Creek Valley in the Spring. 

Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown.


If you would like to send condolences to the family, send an email to Connell, Dow & Deysenroth. We will forward your comments to the family. If you would like to send flowers in memory of the deceased, contact Mohican Flowers at (607) 547-8822, or A Rose is a Rose at (607) 264-3100.

Elizabeth Davidson

February 9, 1923 - August 10, 2014

COOPERSTOWN - Elizabeth Davidson, 91, of Cooperstown, died peacefully Sunday afternoon, August 10, 2014, at Otsego Manor.

Betty was born in New York City on February 9, 1923, the daughter of Willard James Davidson -- a native of Cooperstown -- and Ruth (Sutton) Davidson, who was from Slate Hill in Orange County.  

At the age of six months, Betty and her parents moved to Cooperstown, where she graduated from Cooperstown High School with the Class of 1940. She then went to the Presbyterian Hospital School of Nursing in New York City where she trained for three years to become a Registered Nurse. After that she attended the University of Minnesota where she received her bachelor of science degree and stayed on as part of the nursing school faculty. A person committed to education -- her own as well as others' -- she later became associated with Boston University, as well as Hartwick College in Oneonta.

Since 1941, Betty was affiliated with the Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown. Following a long and distinguished career which culminated in her being the Discharge Planning Coordinator, she retired in 1985.

A person of deep faith, Betty was a member for many years of the First Presbyterian Church of Cooperstown. She was also involved in her community, taking classes through the Center for Continuing Adult Learning, attending concerts and community dinners.   

Betty will be fondly remembered for her stateliness, strength, great competence as a nurse, as well as her pragmatic, self-sufficient and independent nature.  

Betty is survived by several cousins and friends.

A graveside service will be offered at 11 a.m. on Friday, August 15, 2014, in the Fly Creek Valley Cemetery on Cemetery Road in Fly Creek, with the Rev. Elsie Armstrong Rhodes, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Cooperstown, and the Rev. Betsy Jay, Chaplain at Bassett Medical Center, officiating.

For those who wish to make a donation in memory of Betty, please consider Friends of Bassett, One Atwell Road, Cooperstown, NY  13326.

Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown.



If you would like to send condolences to the family, send an email to Connell, Dow & Deysenroth. We will forward your comments to the family. If you would like to send flowers in memory of the deceased, contact Mohican Flowers at (607) 547-8822, or A Rose is a Rose at (607) 264-3100.

Wilhelmus Pijnenburg

March 13, 1936 - August 2, 2014

COOPERSTOWN - Wilhelmus "Willy" Pijnenburg, a long-time resident of Cooperstown and retired superintendant of The Leatherstocking Golf Course, passed away Saturday morning, August 2, 2014, at his home on Fair Street, surrounded by his family. He was 78.

A native of Holland, he was born March 13, 1936, in Tilburg, a son of Alfons and Josephina Henrika VanLoon Pÿnenburg. On January 22, 1952, Willy, his mother and seven siblings came to America. A newspaper article from January 30, 1952, best describes the family's arrival: "A 48-year-old mother and her eight children -- 4 boys and 4 girls ranging in age from 7 to 20 -- are now in Cooperstown, looking forward to a new life in a new country. Mrs. Josephine Pijnenburg and her family arrived in New York on Wednesday of last week. Instrumental in the emigration of the family to this country were Mrs. Hiram Burch, member of the local Double X Club, a 20-member women's social group which "adopted" the family several years ago and J. Harry Cook, well-known Cooperstown business man who has promised employment here for the oldest boy." Willy and his family quickly settled into their new home on the corner of Walnut and Delaware Streets and into life in the Village of Cooperstown.

On August 31, 1958, he married Eileen Bowman in a ceremony at St. Mary's "Our Lady of the Lake" Roman Catholic Church in Cooperstown, with Fr. Robert Murphy officiating. Willy and Eileen then made their home on Fair Street, where they raised their four children.   

An avid golfer, Willy was employed for many years as the superintendant of The Leatherstocking Golf Course. He also enjoyed playing golf with his many friends, and was a part of the group that plays every Wednesday at Leatherstocking.  

A member of the Native Sons of Cooperstown, Willy served his community as a member of Mechanics' Hook & Ladder Co. No. 5 of the Cooperstown Fire Department, and served as Fire Chief from 1980-1982.  

Willy is survived by two daughters and sons-in-law, Maria and Rick Ragsdale of Adrian, Georgia, and Michelle and Steven Imbasciano of Morris; two sons and one daughter-in-law, David and Sharon Pijnenburg of Bethel, Connecticut, and Bill Pijnenburg of Hartwick; and a special granddaughter, Jacqi Le Pijnenburg of Bethel, Connecticut.  

He is further survived by three sisters, Elssie ("Els") Tipsword of LaGrange, Georgia, Johanna ("Jo") Rotter and her husband, Peter, of Canastota, and Anna ("Ans") Rasmuson and her husband, Jim, of South Carolina; two sisters-in-law, Edna Pijnenburg of Hogansville, Georgia, and Willy Fae Pijnenburg of LaGrange, Georgia; two brothers-in-law, John F.("Jack") Bowman of Apalachicola, Florida, and Charles A. Dimick of Cooperstown; and many nieces and nephews.  

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 47 years, Eileen, who died August 19, 2005; one sister, Maria Johanna Pijnenburg Dimick, who died June 22, 2006; and three brothers, Andreas ("Andy"), Hubertus ("Hubert") and Alfons Pijnenburg.  

Friends may call and pay their respects at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown from 5-7 p.m. on Tuesday, August 5, 2014, when Willy's family will be in attendance.

The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be offered at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, August 6, 2014, at St. Mary's "Our Lady of the Lake" Roman Catholic Church in Cooperstown, with Fr. John P. Rosson, pastor, presiding.

The Service of Committal and Burial will be private at a later date in the Bowman Family Plot at St. Mary's Cemetery, Index, where Willy will be laid to rest with Eileen.

For those who wish to make a gift in memory of Willy, his family respectfully requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Catskill Area Hospice & Palliative Care, 1 Birchwood Drive, Oneonta, NY  13820 or Cooperstown Fire Department, P.O. Box 1, Cooperstown, NY  13326.

Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown.


If you would like to send condolences to the family, send an email to Connell, Dow & Deysenroth. We will forward your comments to the family. If you would like to send flowers in memory of the deceased, contact Mohican Flowers at (607) 547-8822, or A Rose is a Rose at (607) 264-3100.

Harlo P. Beals, Jr.

October 3, 1926 - July 28, 2014

COOPERSTOWN - Harlo P. Beals, Jr., a native of Cooperstown, passed away Monday morning, July 28, 2014, at Otsego Manor. He was 87.

On October 3, 1926, Harlo was born at The Thanksgiving Hospital in Cooperstown, a son of Harlo P. Beals, Sr. and Margaret (Bostwick) Beals. His father had moved the family to Cooperstown in 1923, when he was chosen to be the manager of the Otsego County Farm Bureau Association.

After graduating from Cooperstown High School with the class of 1944, Harlo entered into active service with the United States Army and proudly served his country during World War II.

Following his military service, he attended Cornell University, and graduated with a bachelor of science degree in 1950.

After working for American Chemical, Harlo returned to Cooperstown and joined the McEwan Hardware Company in 1969 as a principal, and was named Secretary of the corporation. He continued with the company following its' affiliation with Ace Hardware, and retired in 1994.


Throughout his life, Harlo lived in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, Ithaca, and Canada, yet always considered Cooperstown his true home. A member of the Native Sons of Cooperstown, Harlo was also a member of the Clark F. Simmons American Legion Post No. 579, the Cooperstown Fire Department, and was a former member of the Rotary Club of Cooperstown.

Harlo's interests included restoring Model A and Model T cars, player pianos, repairing antique clocks and antique wooden boats. He thoroughly enjoyed boating on Otsego Lake.

Harlo is survived by his wife of 64 years, Martha Scott Beals, whom he married September 17, 1949, in Ithaca. He is further survived by two sons, Kevin Beals and his wife, Kathie, of Parish, and Stephen Beals and Stacy of Cooperstown; 1 daughter, Susan Beals of Cuyler; two foster daughters, Tina Parks and Dale Hendricks of Cooperstown and Nancy Parshall and her husband, Carl ("Pete"), of Morris; and 12 grandchildren, Kyle Beals and his wife, Brandy, Kory Beals and his wife, Kelly, Gabe Beals, Melanie Bobowski, and her husband, Mattias Wadenstein, Jessica MacKay and her husband, Joshua, Elizabeth Soutar and her husband, Gordon,  Sarah Roberts and her husband, Joseph, Laurie Butts and her husband, John, Carrie Warner and Jamie Parson, Jillian LaBadia and her husband, Joey, and Neil and Christine Parshall. Harlo also enjoyed his 11 great grandchildren, Jackson Beals, Wyatt and Allison Butts, Hailey James, Karli Warner and Madison Parson, Ronin Mooney, Tala MacKay, and Caitlin, Emily and Adam Roberts. Harlo also has a sister-in-law, Ruth Scott, of Trumansburg, and several nieces and nephews.  

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by two brothers, Burton and Robert Beals.

A graveside service will be offered at 2 p.m. on Friday, October 3, 2014, in Lakewood Cemetery, with the Rev. Betsy Jay, Chaplain at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown, officiating.  

Memorial donations may be directed to the Cooperstown Fire Department, P.O. Box 1, Cooperstown, NY  13326, or to The Rotary Club of Cooperstown for the benefit of the Youth Exchange Program, P.O. Box 993, Cooperstown, NY  13326. 

Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown.


If you would like to send condolences to the family, send an email to Connell, Dow & Deysenroth. We will forward your comments to the family. If you would like to send flowers in memory of the deceased, contact Mohican Flowers at (607) 547-8822, or A Rose is a Rose at (607) 264-3100.

Kathleen A. Bachand

December 18, 1920 - July 27, 2014

COOPERSTOWN - Kathleen A. Bachand, 93, formerly of Walden, passed away Sunday morning, July 27, 2014, at Otsego Manor. Kathleen was a kind and loving woman with a great sense of humor, and with a deep and abiding love of her family and many friends.

She was born December 18, 1920, in Hartford, CT, a daughter of Anthony and Philomena (Vendetti) DiPaola. She married Edward A. Bachand, Sr. on November 21, 1942.

Throughout her life Kathleen was employed in cafeterias at several schools, as well as at Aetna Insurance Company in Hartford. Her true career was caring for her home and family.  

In the late 1970s, she and her husband moved to Walden. Following Edward's death in 2000 she moved to Cooperstown to be near her daughter, Margaret, and her family.  

Kathleen is survived by her daughter, Margaret Savoie and her husband, Dennis A. Savoie, MD of Cooperstown; one son, Richard J. Bachand of Pathfinder Village in Edmeston; three grandchildren, Matthew Savoie and his wife, Christina, Benjamin Savoie and his wife, Jacqueline and Jonathan Savoie; two great grandchildren, Nathaniel Cooper Savoie and Christopher John Savoie; two sisters, Joyce Perkins and Anna Pollansky; one brother, Anthony DiPaola and his wife Sandra; several nieces and nephews whom she loved and cherished; and a dear friend, Annette Smith and family.

She was predeceased by her husband, Edward A. Bachand, Sr. who died July 7, 2000; one son, Edward A. Bachand, Jr. who died January 10, 1997; two sisters, Maria Bell and Evelyn Hoglen and one brother, Frank DiPaola who was declared MIA during World War II.

Her parents came from Italy and shared their Italian traditions while raising their large and loving family. Kathleen was always proud of her Italian heritage. Her love of family was deep and long lasting. 

At the request of the family and to honor Kathleen's wishes the visitation, the Liturgy of Christian Burial and interment will be private.

In honor of Kathleen, please call your mom and tell her you love her, kiss your husband once on each cheek, help someone who needs help, and tell a good joke. Use your best china and silver. Light all the candles. Stop saving things for a special occasion; today is special enough.

Those who so desire may make donations in memory of Kathleen to Pathfinder Village for the benefit of Chenango House, 3 Chenango Road, Edmeston, NY 13335-2314.

Arrangement are under the care and guidance of the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown.


If you would like to send condolences to the family, send an email to Connell, Dow & Deysenroth. We will forward your comments to the family. If you would like to send flowers in memory of the deceased, contact Mohican Flowers at (607) 547-8822, or A Rose is a Rose at (607) 264-3100.