Connell, Dow & Deysenroth, Inc.Funeral Home: 2016

Gary Michael (Mike) Newell

HARTWICK - Gary Michael Newell died peacefully at home on Friday, December 23, 2016.

Mike was born in Whitehall, the son of Patricia Newell (Cooper). His maternal grandmother, upon first peek, declared, "He's not a Gary. He's a Mike!" and hence he became known as Mike. His childhood home, with the mountains in his backyard, provided the perfect setting for him to develop a relentless curiosity and imagination, a life-long penchant for risk taking, and a love of the Adirondacks.

Upon graduating from high school and attending Adirondack Community College, Mike hitchhiked to Alaska, a land he loved. He worked as a Fire Warden and Fire Planner for the Bureau of Land Management in Alaska from 1973-1981. His love of fighting fire never waned and led him to work with the New York State Forest Rangers as a wild land fire fighter from 2000-2007. His assignments included mostly western forest fires, but also natural disasters, such as Hurricane Katrina, as well.

In 1983 Mike joined with Mark Rathbun to create an alternative high school for non-traditional students for BOCES. The program and its students prospered, especially when they made their home in the "old Hartwick School," where they were incorporated into and embraced by the Hartwick Community. He taught English and Reading at the "Upward Bound" school for 22 years and up to the present continued to receive calls and letters from former students thanking him for "recognizing their talents, challenging them, giving them a purpose, and teaching them to question themselves." His enthusiasm and talent for teaching alternative populations propelled him to seek work at a variety of other venues, including the Migrant Tutorial Program; as a GED teacher; as a Reading/English teacher at Summit Incarceration Facility, Oneonta Job Corps, Allen Residential Center and Brace Residential Facility; and as an Adjunct Writing Instructor at SUNY Oneonta.

Upon his retirement from education in 2004, Mike worked as an ER clerk at Bassett Medical Center -- a tribute to a beloved grandmother who had been a nurse. He was most proud of developing a Compassion Fatigue program for caregivers while working at Bassett. In full retirement Mike became a volunteer with the Albany Pine Bush on prescription burns and was currently a naturalist-in-training there. Other pursuits to his credit are stints as a 911 Dispatcher, Commissioner of the Otsego County Local Conditional Release Commission, and elections inspector for the Otsego County Board of Elections.

Mike had an unending love of literature and was greatly influenced by the work of Barry Lopez. In 2008 he wrote No Bottom: In Conversation With Barry Lopez, a critical inquiry into the author's work. He also enjoyed reading and writing poetry and had numerous poems published in literary journals. He authored three books of poetry: uNderground Fires, The Unlived Life, and Aestivation; and is listed in the Poets and Writers Directory.

Mike received his BS in Fire Ecology from Empire State College in 1981; a Masters in Environmental Law from Vermont Law School in 1984; and a Masters in Education from SUNY Oneonta in 1989.

Mike married his wife, Phyllis, on September 22, 1989, and together they built a log cabin in the hills of Hartwick and created their own small "piece of Paradise." Along with his wife, he is survived by two daughters, Sara Beth Newell and Meggan (Stephen) Flaherty; two stepdaughters, Trisha (Chuck) D'Imperio and Jo Ann Furlan; one stepson, Dan (Sara) Schallert; eight grandchildren, Katja and Gavin Flaherty, Abby and Joseph Rodenas, Gabriella and Maralina Furlan, and Graham and Hadley Schallert. He is also survived by four brothers, Bob (Susan) Newell, Edwin (Mary) Cox, and Tom and Mark Cox; one sister, Gail (Tom) Todd; and his wife's siblings, Jacqueline Parshall and Tim (Lora) Bridger; as well as several aunts, cousins, nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to call at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Thursday, December 29, 2016.

A Memorial Service will be offered at the funeral home at 1 p.m. on Thursday, with the Rev. Betsy Jay, Chaplain at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown, officiating.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to the Susquehanna Animal Shelter, 4841 State Highway 28, Cooperstown, NY 13326, the Kinney Memorial Library, P.O. Box 176, Hartwick, NY 13348, or the Adirondack Mountain Club, 814 Goggins Road, Lake George, NY 12845.

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.

Robert E. Covert

1931 - 2016

HARTWICK - Robert Ellis Covert, 85, passed away after suffering for ten years with Alzheimer's Sunday evening, December 11, 2016, at his home on West Hill.

He was born September19, 1931, at Hackensack Hospital in Hackensack, New Jersey, a son of Ellis Anderson and Edna May (Ockenholt) Covert.

After graduating from high school, Bob entered into active service with the United States Navy on February 4, 1949. He served during the Cold War as a diesel mechanic on submarines at the submarine base in New London, Connecticut. On January 30, 1953, he received his honorable discharge from the military.

On September 22, 1956, he married Ruth Ann Schilling in Wyckoff, New Jersey.

Throughout his life Bob worked as a garbage man, a motor vehicle inspector for the State of New Jersey and as a police officer for the Borough of Oakland in New Jersey, retiring as a Lieutenant in the 1980s.

Once he retired, he spent the rest of his life living in Hartwick. Bob was active with the Hartwick American Legion Post No. 1567, helped form and was an active member with his wife, Ruth, of the Wanderers and Reminiscers Car Clubs, and served as a member of the Planning Board for the Town of Hartwick. He loved his family, friends and pets, and enjoyed life with his wife on the West Hill Toy Farm. He really loved all his toys, especially his toy trucks and cars that were his passions.

For years Bob was known as the "Hershey Kiss Man", handing out Hershey Kisses to women everywhere he went.

He will be greatly missed.

Bob is survived by one son Michael K. Covert of Hartwick; one daughter and son-in-law, Kathleen and Jon Sammis of Petersham, Massachusetts; three granddaughters, Colleen Witter and husband, Jason, of West Winfield, Dana Conte and husband, Nathan, of Hartwick, and Lisa Covert and companion, Jason Rashkow of Westford; one great grandson, Joseph Conte; one great granddaughter, Kathryn Conte; a sister, Natalie Keene of Suffern; a brother-in-law, William Schilling and companion, Marilyn Dougherty of Hartwick; several nieces and nephews; and his care provider, Deborah Wengert.

He was predeceased by his wife of 58 years, Ruth Covert, who died December 7, 2014; and two sisters, Mary Catherine Brangen and Jean Lois La Chaunce.

A celebration of his life picnic and service will be held May 20, 2017 at his home.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial gift to 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.

George E. Vermilya

1926 - 2016

NEW HARTFORD - Mr. George Elmer Vermilya, 90, of New Hartford and formerly of Fly Creek, died Saturday morning, November 26, 2016, at St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Utica.

A native of Delaware County, George was born at home in Grand Gorge on September 12, 1926, a son of Leo Eugene Vermilya and Inez Patterson Vermilya.

He attended South Kortright Central School and then entered into active service in the United States Army in January 1945. After proudly serving his country during World War II he returned home and earned his high school diploma from SKCS with the Class of 1948.

On October 2, 1953, George married Elsie A. Darling in a ceremony at the Hobart Methodist Church. In 1954, the couple moved to Cooperstown where George was employed as the manager of the Sealtest Milk Plant which was located at the corner of Chestnut and Walnut Streets.

During their years in the Cooperstown area, the Vermilyas resided in Fly Creek, during which time Elsie was employed on the news staff of The Freeman's Journal. George became a life member of the Sgt. Walter P. Eggleston Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 7128 in Cooperstown, and often served with the Honor Guard for Military Honors for deceased Veterans.

In 1971, George and Elsie moved to St. Lawrence County to reside in Madrid, where he was employed as a dairy farm inspector for the Kraft Cheese Plant in Canton. Upon his retirement in 1988, the couple moved to New Hartford.

George is survived by one daughter and son-in-law, Barbara and Anthony Covais of Massena; three granddaughters, Tammy Loz and husband, Richard, Teresa Cavanaugh and husband, Mark, and Candace O'Neill; 11 great grandchildren; and two great great grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his wife of 55 years, Elsie A. Vermilya, who died January 18, 2009.

A graveside service with Military Honors will be offered in the Spring of 2017 in the Fly Creek Valley Cemetery. Service details will be announced at that time.

As an alternative to flowers, expressions of sympathy in the form of memorial gifts may be made to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 11454, Alexandria, VA 22312.

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

Regina G. Snyder

1925 - 2016

CHAPEL HILL, NORTH CAROLINA - Regina G. Snyder, a native of Cooperstown, New York, and long-time resident of Chapel Hill, North Carolina, died early Sunday morning, November 20, 2016, at UNC Healthcare-Hillsborough Campus in Hillsborough, North Carolina, following a brief illness. She was 91.

Born August 1, 1925, at the Thanksgiving Hospital in Cooperstown, New York, Regina was the only child of Parker E. Snyder and Florence E. née Winslow Snyder. After graduating from Cooperstown High School with the Class of 1943, she attended the Albany College of Pharmacy where she earned a bachelor's degree in 1947.

Throughout her career as a pharmacist, she was employed in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, Albany, New York, and for ten years at Memorial Sloan Kettering Hospital in New York City, as well as various local pharmacies. In 1985, she moved to Chapel Hill, North Carolina, and for the past 20 years made her home at Carolina Meadows, a continuing care retirement community.

While residing in Chapel Hill, Regina attended University Presbyterian Church, and was a member of the David Poplar Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (D.A.R.) and the American Association of University Women (A.A.U.W.).

She was also a member of the Native Daughters of Cooperstown and while living in Otsego County attended the Church of Christ Uniting in Richfield Springs, New York.

Regina will be laid to rest in the family plot in Middlefield Center Cemetery in Middlefield Center, New York.

A Memorial Service will be offered at 11 a.m. Monday, May 8, 2017, at The First Presbyterian Church of Cooperstown, with the Rev. Elsie A. Rhodes, pastor officiating.

Interment will be later that afternoon in the Snyder Family Plot in the Middlefield Center Cemetery.

Condolences may be sent by visiting www.cooperstownfuneralhome.com.

Memorial donations may be directed to a charity of one's choice.

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

Marjorie N. Strait

1936 - 2016

COOPERSTOWN - Marjorie Newell Strait, 80, of Cooperstown, passed away peacefully Tuesday morning, November 15, 2016 at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown after a short illness.

She was born July 9, 1936, in Cooperstown to Charles A. and Mary (Gavin) Newell. She graduated from Cooperstown High School in 1954 and attended secretarial college in Syracuse.

For over 40 years Marge was employed as a secretary in the Surgical Department at Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown. She also owned and operated The Cooperstown Diner with her late husband, Charles H. Strait. She was famous for her hamburgers and chili.

Her sense of humor and generosity will be missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by her daughter, Mary Gaughan, son-in-law, Adam Solomon and her beloved granddaughters, Devasha and Sigal Solomon of Brookline, MA; three sisters, Imogene Carter and husband, Dr. Rodman Carter of Palm Coast, FL and Cooperstown, Noreen Newell of Wallingford, VT and Marion "Billie" Williams of Portland, OR; many nieces and nephews; and her friend Wayne Granger.

She was predeceased by her mother and father, her husband, Charles H. Strait and three brothers, Charles A. Newell, Jr., Donald Newell and Roger Gavin Newell.

A graveside service will be offered at 11 a.m. on Saturday, November 19, 2016, in the Hartwick Seminary Cemetery with the Rev. Betsy Jay, Chaplain at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown, officiating.

Donations in her memory may be made to Cooperstown Emergency Squad. P. O. Box 322, Cooperstown, NY 13326 or to Friends of Bassett, 1 Atwell Road, Cooperstown, NY 13326.

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

Robert J. Shirm

1951 - 2016

The Lord is thy keeper: the Lord is thy shade upon thy right hand. The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore. (Psalm 121:5,8)

MILFORD - Robert Joseph Shirm, 65, passed away unexpectedly Monday evening, All Hallows Eve, October 31, 2016, while communing with nature in the woods near his home.

He was born October 9, 1951, in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, a son of the late Ralph and Mary (Roman) Shirm and was raised and educated in Montoursville.

After graduating from high school he worked as a security guard and met his future wife, Kathleen Finnegan, near his family's home. On June 5, 1976, Bob and Kathy were married in Geneva, NY, and then spent their first three months together on an extended honeymoon driving cross country in a converted Volkswagen Van. They first settled in California where Bob was employed as nurseryman. Eventually they made their way back to New York State and resided on Eggleston Hill in Milford. In 2007 they moved to their current home on Cold Springs Lane.

While living in Otsego County, Bob was employed by MOSA at their Southern Transfer Station and most recently worked in the maintenance department at the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in Cooperstown, retiring in 2013.

Bob loved the outdoors, and especially enjoyed long walks in the woods where he would be scouting for firewood. Equally, he loved spending time with his family. He also enjoyed just being home and watching football and hockey on TV. Bob was an avid reader - with a special fondness for science fiction novels - and as a fervent supporter and frequent visitor of the Milford Free Library, he recently became a member of their advisory board.

Bob will be greatly missed by his loving wife of 40 years, Kathy, of Milford; their three children, Ian R. Shirm of Milford, Alison S. Cole and husband Richard of Gilbertsville and Mackenzie Shirm of Monroe; four grandchildren, Deidre, Indigo and Jasper Cole and Ava Rose Shirm; and one sister, Joann Shirm of Montoursville, Pennsylvania.

In addition to his parents, Bob was predeceased by an infant son, James Allen Shirm who died in 1991.

Friends may call and pay their respects at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown on Friday, November 4, 2016, from 4 - 6 pm when Bob's family will be in attendance.

The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be offered at 10 am on Saturday, November 5, 2016, at St. Mary's' "Our Lady of the Lake" Roman Catholic Church in Cooperstown with Fr. John P. Rosson, pastor, officiating.

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

For those who so desire, Bob's family would appreciate donations in his memory to the Milford Free Library, P. O. Box 118, Milford, NY 13807.

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

Brian R. Jacobson

1957 - 2016

Brian Richard Jacobson, a former local businessman and 1976 Cooperstown H.S. graduate passed away on Saturday October 15, 2016. He was 59 years young. Brian was born on March 28, 1957 at Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown, NY, a son of Richard (Dick) M. Jacobson and Joan Worrall White, former Cooperstown business owners of the Smart Shop, Village Squire and Lofty's Night Club.

Since 1991, Brian made his home in Phoenix, AZ where he was a business owner and partner of Lasting Impressions Window and Door as well as Stagecoach Locksmiths. Brian was known for his positive attitude, smile, leadership skills and generous spirit. He loved to mentor and support others to reach their goals and celebrated their accomplishments. He was a Trustee and active member of the Elks Lodge #2148 in Scottsdale, AZ. Brian loved the outdoors, skiing at Mount Otsego, spending time on Otsego Lake, golfing, motor bikes, NASCAR and camping. He especially loved music and attending concerts - everything from Bruce Springsteen to Waylon Jennings. A true animal lover he cherished his pets; dogs Zabin, Cory, Jake & Bear and cats Kit-Kat, Don King & Spooky.

Brian will be fondly remembered for his great spirit and fun loving attitude no matter what the situation. He will be greatly missed by his loving family and many friends. Brian is survived by his wife, Strawberry C. Jacobson of Scottsdale, AZ; his son Max A. R. Jacobson of Phoenix, AZ; his father Richard M. Jacobson (Susan) of DelMar, CA; his Aunt Jean W. Johnson of Cooperstown; his siblings Ann T. Mithoefer (Michael) of Sullivans Island, SC, Robin J. Torrence (Rod) of Cooperstown and Mark A. Jacobson (Renee) of Scottsdale, AZ; He is further survived by his cousins, Debbie J. Mullet (John), Timothy R. Johnson (Vicki) and Meghan King (Rob); 11 nieces and nephews, Emily Edwards (Erick), Heather Adcock (Brandon), Matthew Grady (Kara), Christopher Grady (Stacey), Rachel Torrence (Joe), Emily Lemieux, Ryan, Michael, Andrew & Hanna Jacobson, Eli Weir, Ian Mullet, Alex Susanna & Catherine Johnson, Cooper & Schaefer King along with many great nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.

In addition to his grandparents he was preceded in death by his mother, Joan Worrall White of Cooperstown who died on June 29, 2014.

A memorial service and celebration of life will be held in June of 2017 in Cooperstown. The family kindly requests in lieu of flowers that contributions in Brian's memory be made to Susquehanna Animal Shelter, 4841 State Highway 28, Cooperstown, NY 13326 or Elks Lodge #2148, 6398 East Oak Street, Scottsdale, AZ 85257.

Lynette M. Dibble

1952 - 2016

HARTWICK - Lynette Marie Dibble, 63, a long-time resident of Hartwick, passed away peacefully on a beautiful Fall Sunday afternoon, October 23, 2016, with her two sons and closest friends by her side.

She was born October 31, 1952, in the Town of New Berlin, a daughter of the late Stanley G. and Lolita V. (Mead) Clark. She graduated from Cooperstown Central School with the Class of 1970.

For several years she served as the Village of Richfield Springs Clerk and Registrar. Her passion, though, was her work with The Arc Otsego in Hartwick, where she served as a Community Service Provider contributing to the betterment of many wonderful people.

Lynette is survived by her two sons, Gregory James Dibble Jr. and his wife, Rhonda Forbes Dibble of Dusseldorf, Germany, and Brian Joseph Dibble and his wife, Meggy Catherine Dibble of Mineral, Virginia; two grandchildren, Logan James Dibble and Casey Margaret Dibble; three sisters, Terri McPhail of Youngsville, North Carolina, Coleen Vesely and husband, Michael of Springfield Center and Shiela Shaul and partner, Frank Parshall of Hartwick; and many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her mother, Lolita V. Clark who died July 13, 2002, and her father, Stanley G. Clark, who died June 26, 2014.

Calling hours will be held from 5-7 p.m. Monday, November 21, 2016, at Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown. Services will be offered in the Spring of 2017; details will be announced at a later date.

For those who wish, contributions may be made to the Breast Cancer Research Fund on-line at www.bcrfcure.org or to The Arc Otsego in Hartwick, Attn.: Garnet Williams, P.O. Box 490, Oneonta, NY 13820 in Lynette's memory.

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

John P. Shulkie

1946 - 2016

TODDSVILLE - John Paul Shulkie, 70, of Toddsville, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday afternoon, October 25, 2016, at his home on Greenough Road.

He was born August 22, 1946, in Queens, and spent his early years at New York Foundling Hospital. Through the kindness of Francis and Anna Kenney of Cooperstown, John came to live with and consider them his parents.

After graduating from Cooperstown Central School with the Class of 1966, he entered into active duty with the United States Army and proudly served his country during the Vietnam War. Corporal Shulkie was recognized for heroism on February 28, 1968, in the Republic of Vietnam and was awarded the Soldiers Medal. On October 25, 1972, Sergeant Shulkie received his honorable discharge from the United States Army.

On July 26 , 1970, John married the former Janet Evelyn Chmielewski in Manheim.

For many years John was employed at Remington Arms in Ilion as a machine operator on gun receivers. When he retired in 2006 he was working as a machine setter.

For over thirty years John was a dedicated member of Hartwick Fire Department Company No. 2in Hartwick Seminary.

John is survived by his wife of 46 years, Janet of Toddsville and their two children, John P. Shulkie, Jr. of Toddsville and Janine Shulkie of Richfield Springs. He is further survived by his mother, Anna Kenney of Bowerstown, his mother-in-law, Evelyn Chmielewski of Toddsville; four sisters and brothers-in-law, Catherine "Rosie" and Phillip Moore of Cherry Valley, Barbara and Donald Ende of Cobleskill, Diane and Warren Bunn of Sherburne and Patricia and Dennis Cohen of Portlandville; two brothers, Joseph Kenney and wife "Cricket" of Cooperstown and Mike Kozak of Florida; Aunt Eleanor Hallock; brothers-in-law Walter Chmielewski and wife Tammy and William Chmielewski and wife, Pamela; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his father, Francis E. Kenney (2002), his father-in-law, Walter Chmielewski (1994) and a brother, Francis R. "Richie" Kenney (2005).

Friends may call at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown on Friday, October 28, 2016, from 4-6 p.m. when John's family will be in attendance.

A Funeral Service will be offered at the funeral home at 10 a.m. on Saturday, October 29, 2016, with Rev. Jack Klosheim, Pastor of Community Bible Chapel in Toddsville, officiating.

Burial with Military Honors to be accorded by members of the Cooperstown Veterans Club and the New York State Military Forces Honor Guard will be at 2 p.m. on Saturday in Salisbury Rural Cemetery, State Route 29, Salisbury.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Community Bible Chapel, 577 Greenough Road, Cooperstown, NY 13326 or Hartwick Fire Company No. 2, 4877 State Highway 28, Cooperstown, NY 13326.

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

Peter A. Norberg

1954 - 2016

Peter Axel Norberg, 62, passed away Tuesday, October 18, 2016, in Bethlehem Commons at Good Samaritan Lutheran Healthcare Center in Delmar following a sudden illness.

He was born July 10, 1954, in Delhi, the son of Axel Poulson Norberg and Jeane Anne (Gile) Norberg.

Peter, a graduate of Middleburgh Central School and Hudson Valley Community College, was an experienced and proficient truck driver for various companies throughout his adult life. Most recently he worked for Indian River Transport based out of Winter Haven, Florida. When he was not driving across the United States and Canada you could find Peter with family and friends, volunteering for local youth soccer tournaments and the Middleburgh Fire Department, playing basketball and softball, or watching his kids compete on athletic fields and courts throughout the Northeast.

Peter is survived by his three children, Derek Axel Norberg of St. Simons Island, Georgia, Kelsey Ann Norberg of Averill Park and Lauren Norberg of Charleston, South Carolina. He is further survived by two sisters, Margaret "Peg" Lane of Ohio and Elizabeth "Beth" Mahon and husband, John, of Rhinebeck, as well as many aunts and uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was predeceased by his father, Ax who died June 20, 2002, and his mother, Jeane who died January 19, 2013.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a graveside service at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, November 23, 2016, in the East Meredith Cemetery, 10059 Elk Creek Road, East Meredith (across from the former Charlotte Valley Presbyterian Church, now home of Meredith Historical Society).

As a way to remember Peter, his family respectfully requests that memorial donations be directed to the Middleburgh Central School Athletic Booster Club, P.O. Box 413, Middleburgh, NY 12122.

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

Bernice E. Loudon

1923 - 2016

FLY CREEK - Bernice E. Loudon, 93, of Fly Creek, passed away Tuesday morning, October 18, 2016, at Focus Rehabilitation and Nursing Center at Otsego with family by her side.

She was born March 2, 1923, at home in the Town of Middlefield, a daughter of Hubert S. and Mary Argie (Dow) Andrews.

After graduating from Cooperstown High School with the Class of 1940, Bernice entered into active service in the military and proudly served her country during World War II in the WAVES. She was stationed at the Naval Hospital in the Bronx and in the USNCTC in Davisville, Rhode Island. She received her honorable discharge on January 25, 1944, having attained the rank of Hospital Apprentice First Class.

On May 16, 1953, she married Nelson D. Loudon in Great Bend, Pennsylvania. After moving back to the Cooperstown area, she was employed as a Licensed Practical Nurse at Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital.

Bernice was a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, West Oneonta Branch. She was also a Life Member of the Clark F. Simmons American Legion Post No. 579 in Cooperstown and was active with the Fly Creek Fire Department Auxiliary. In her retirement, she was a member of the Bassett Auxiliary and volunteered many hours at the hospital. A dedicated participant of Senior Walk at the Clark Sports Center, she enjoyed walking on the running track with other senior citizens and was proud to have reached the 500 mile mark. Her family will fondly remember her for her expert knitting skills, and will always cherish the many Christmas stockings she made throughout her life for many family members. She also enjoyed ceramics and made many beautiful gifts for her family.

Bernice is survived by her two daughters, Cora Niederlander and her husband, Ralph Niederlander, Sr. of West Winfield, and Nancy Chandler and her husband, George, of Fly Creek; six grandchildren, Ralph Niederlander, Jr. and wife, Alison of Butler, Pennsylvania, Robert Niederlander and wife, Martha of Hillsborough, New Jersey, Todd Niederlander and wife, Sue of West Winfield, Christopher Chandler and wife, Connie of Cooperstown, Yvonne Colby and husband, Dean, of Fly Creek, and Melissa Gwilt and husband, Paul of Oneida; 13 great grandchildren, Eva, Brad, Alan, Matthew, Jessica, Andrew, Richard, Julianne, Kate, Kristie, Sean, Matthew and Jordian, and several step grandchildren and great grandchildren. She is further survived 21 nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband, Nelson, who died February 20, 1994; an infant son, James David Hunt who died in 1947; a granddaughter, Carrie Anne Chandler who died September 30, 1993; four sisters, Leona, Ervine, Charlotte and Mary Jane; and five brothers, Arthur, James, Wilbert ("Hoppy"), Jack and Victor.

Graveside Services will be offered at 11 a.m. on Saturday, October 22, 2016, in the Fly Creek Valley Cemetery on Cemetery Road in Fly Creek. President Danny Noorlander of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, West Oneonta Branch, will preside over the dedication of the grave. Military Honors will be accorded by members of the Clark F. Simmons American Legion Post No. 579, Cooperstown and members of the US Navy Funeral Honors Team.

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

Anthony J. Schifano

1947 - 2016

COOPERSTOWN - Anthony John Schifano, 69, of Cooperstown, passed away peacefully Wednesday evening, October 12, 2016, at home with his family by his side.

Tony was born October 5, 1947, in Pittston, Pennsylvania, a son of the late Angelo and Grace (Marranca) Schifano.

After graduating from high school, Tony entered into active service as a dental technician with the United States Navy on December 27, 1968. His last duty assignment was at the Naval Station in Adak, Alaska, and he received his honorable discharge on September 18, 1972.

Following his service in the military, Tony served for a brief period as a supervisor for a cold storage unit and then attended college to study medical technology. He later entered the field of medical research administration and for a time worked at the Syracuse VA Medical Center. During his time at the VA, Tony was the first person in the country to start independent research corporations, which allows the VA system to secure outside grants. This system still exists today. After moving to the Cooperstown area, Tony was employed as Director of Medical Research Administration for Bassett Healthcare Network. From 2003-2012 he found his true calling as a substitute teacher for Cooperstown Central Schools. The staff, the teachers, and the students became his second family.

Tony married the former Jean Marie Buggy in West Pittston, Pennsylvania, and just this past Monday they celebrated 30 years of marriage. Tony is further survived by their two children, son Nicholas Schifano and wife, Sarah, of Buffalo, and daughter Merritt Schifano of Ithaca; one brother, Robert Schifano and wife, Gayle, of Belleville, Pennsylvania; sisters-in-law Eva Wojtowicz of Pittston, Pennsylvania and Mary Ann Schifano of West Pittston, Pennsylvania; brother and sister-in-law Gary and Rebecca Miller of Elizabethville, Pennsylvania; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by two brothers, Joseph and Angelo Schifano.

The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, staff and friends from Bassett Medical Center for giving him the gift of life.

A visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. Sunday, October 16, 2016, at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown.

The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be offered at 10 a.m. Monday, October 17, 2016 at St. Mary's "Our Lady of the Lake" Roman Catholic Church in Cooperstown, with Fr. John P. Rosson, pastor, presiding.

As an alternative to flowers, Tony's family respectfully requests that memorial gifts be directed to Cooperstown Emergency Squad, P.O. Box 322, Cooperstown, NY 13326 or Bassett Healthcare, 1 Atwell Road, Cooperstown, NY 13326.

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

Anthony J. Schifano

COOPERSTOWN - Anthony "Tony" J. Schifano, 69, of Cooperstown, passed away peacefully Wednesday evening, October 12, 2016, at home with his family by his side.

A visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. Sunday, October 16, 2016, at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown.

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

Rosemarie Koenig

1936 - 2016

COOPERSTOWN - Rosemarie Koenig, 80, of Cooperstown, passed away unexpectedly Friday, October 7, 2016, at her home on Delaware Street.

She was born August 20, 1936, on Staten Island, the daughter of Rosalie Martha née Rodtz and Henry Charles Koenig.

After graduating from New Dorp High School on Staten Island, she attended Hunter College, Columbia University and Sloan Institute of Hospital Administration.

She was first employed at Chase Bank from 1952-55, and then from 1955-60 in the Dean's Office at Columbia College. In 1960 she became assistant to the President of Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, and served there until 1974 when she moved to Cooperstown. From 1975-1996 Rosemarie was involved with administrative management at Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital, and then went to work at Christ Church where she served as Secretary until 2010.

Rosemarie is survived by her brother, Ralph Henry Koenig and his wife, Joan, of Ocala, Florida; cousins Janice (Alff) Petrocelli of Lakewood, New Jersey, Susan (Petrocelli) Domenico and her husband, Michael of Chicago, Illinois and Sea Girt, New Jersey and their children and grandchildren; dearest friend Susan Irving Galante of Woodbridge, Virginia; and godson Charles E. Meador Jr. and his family.

She is also survived by Christine Teachout of Maryland, housekeeper and friend; and friends The Rev'd Samuel B. Abbott and wife, Edith, of Brookline, MA, Roxanne Hansel, Kathryn and Richard Busse and Ralph and Susan Snell of Cooperstown, and Roberta Rowland-Raybold of Guilderland.

The Committal Service (Rite I) and entombment will take place at 11 a.m. on Saturday, October 15, 2016, at the Columbarium Wall in the Church-yard at Christ Church, Cooperstown with The Rev'd Dane E. Boston, Rector and The Rev'd Paul R. Messner, pastor of Evangelical Lutheran Church, Hartwick Seminary, officiating.

A Memorial Service to Celebrate the Life of Rosemarie Koenig will be offered at 11 a.m. on Saturday, November 5, 2016, at Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hartwick Seminary with Rev'd Paul R. Messner, pastor, officiating. A reception will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Evangelical Lutheran Church, 4636 State Highway 28, Cooperstown, NY 13326 or Christ Church, 69 Fair Street, Cooperstown, NY 13326 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.

Irene V. Galli

1919 - 2016

COOPERSTOWN - Irene V. Galli, 97, a former resident of Jackson Heights, Queens, and more recently of St. James Manor in Oneonta, passed away peacefully early Thursday morning, October 6, 2016, at Focus Rehabilitation and Nursing Center at Otsego.

Born to Umberto and Natalina (Conti) Rolleri in Newark, New Jersey, on June 21, 1919, Irene grew up and attended school in New York City. She married her childhood sweetheart, Mario J. Galli on June 26, 1938, in Queens where they lived for many years.

Irene worked as a bookkeeper in Manhattan where she also attended classes at the Art Students League. An accomplished artist, she was an active member and officer of the Jackson Heights Art Association and exhibited in Mystic, Connecticut, Long Island and Manhattan, to name a few.

Irene especially enjoyed spending time with family, reading, playing "Scrabble" (would only play by the "official" tournament rules), attending plays, visiting museums and travelling throughout Europe where she frequently discovered subjects for her paintings.

Having served as a volunteer on a weekly basis for the Lighthouse for the Blind in New York City, Irene was awarded a 25-year service pin in 2005.

Irene will be remembered as a true "life-long learner" who inspired her family to pursue their talents and explore the discovery of new ones.

Irene is survived by her daughter, Adrienne Lentini and her husband, Joseph of Cooperstown; two grandchildren, Jennifer M. McArdle of Brewster and Joseph J. Lentini and his wife, Michelle of Scotch Plains, New Jersey; four great grandchildren, Jacy D. Lentini, Aidan T. McArdle, Terence J. McArdle, and Avery J. Lentini; a brother, Peter Rolleri of North Carolina; nephews Bruno, Paul, Richard, David (Kim), Tom and Rob and nieces Diane (Jack) and Lisa.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Mario, who died September 12, 1975, and son, Robert J. Galli, who died January 27, 2003.

The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be offered at 10 a.m. on Monday, October 10, 2016, at St. Mary's "Our Lady of the Lake" Roman Catholic Church in Cooperstown, with Fr. John P. Rosson, pastor, presiding.

Interment will be in Long Island National Cemetery in Pinelawn on Thursday, October 13, 2016 at 11 a.m.

As an alternative to flowers, Irene's family suggests that memorial donations be directed to lighthouse guild.org, or mail contributions to Lighthouse Guild, 15 West 65th Street, New York, NY 10023

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

George R. Tucker, Jr.

1932 - 2016

OAKSVILLE - George Raymond Tucker, Jr., 84, of Jones Road in Oaksville, died Sunday, October 2, 2016, at his home.

He was born February 6, 1932, at Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown, a son of George R. Tucker, Sr. and Nellie M. (Staffin) Tucker.

He graduated from Cooperstown High School in 1950 and shortly thereafter was employed by the George A. Fuller Co. of New York, who was constructing one of the first major additions to the M.I.B. Hospital. Upon completion of the project, George began his life long career with Otsego County Department of Highways.

On August 20, 1952, George was called to active duty with the U.S. Army and proudly served his country during the Korean War. Stationed in Korea with the 65th Combat Engineers, 25th Infantry Division, he was the recipient of the Korean War Service Medal with one Bronze Star, the United Nations Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal and a Merit Unit Commendation Medal. He was Honorably Discharged on August 24, 1954, having attained the rank of Sergeant.

Following his military service and return home, George attended the State University of New York Agricultural and Technical Institute at Delhi where he studied surveying. He was once again employed by Otsego County, and in 1957 was appointed Junior Engineer. It was during this time that George became instrumental in starting a union to represent County employees and served as Vice President and then President of the Civil Service Employees Association (CSEA).

In 1972 George was appointed Superintendent of Highways to succeed Francis S. Olin, and served in that position until his retirement in 1994.

On May 25, 1957, George married the former Shirley E. Moore in a ceremony at St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church in Oneonta.

A Native Son of Cooperstown, George was an Honorary Member of the New York State Superintendents Association and the Town Highway Superintendents Association. He was a Life Member and Past Post Commander of the Sgt. Walter P. Eggleston Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 7128 in Cooperstown and was also a member of the Hugick Purcell American Legion Post No. 616 in Richfield Springs. For eight years he served on the Town of Otsego Board, with six years as Deputy Supervisor, and was a 42 year member of the Fly Creek Volunteer Fire Company and served as Secretary for 23 years.

He lived, he loved, he died. He enjoyed life!!

George is survived by two daughters, Linda Thayer and her husband, Alan of Fly Creek, and Lisa Adams and her husband, Rick of Wake Forest, North Carolina; two sons, Patrick Tucker and his wife, Carolyn of Colorado and Michael Tucker and his wife, Jennifer of Massachusetts; eight grandsons, Tim Adams, Jason Coe, Joshua Adams, Eric Coe, Caleb Adams, Nicholas Tucker, Jacob Tucker and Sean Tucker; and one sister, Carol Richards and her husband, Earl of Schenevus.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 49 years, Shirley E. Tucker, who died November 6, 2006.

Family and friends are invited to gather at 11 a.m. on Saturday, October 8, 2016, at St. Mary's Cemetery, Index, where Military Honors will be accorded by members of the Sgt. Walter P. Eggleston Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 7128, Cooperstown, and the New York State Military Forces Honor Guard.

Following the services in the cemetery, all attending are invited to the Fly Creek Volunteer Fire Company Fire Hall for a time of refreshment and fellowship.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in the form of memorial gifts may be directed to the Fly Creek Volunteer Fire Company, P.O, Box 218, Fly Creek, NY 13337.

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

Justin R. Hoag (Hoagster)

1984 - 2016

COOPERSTOWN - Justin Robert Hoag, 32, passed away unexpectedly in the early morning hours of Tuesday, September 27, 2016, at his home after a long and courageous battle with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

He was born March 31, 1984, at Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown, the son of Donald Philip Hoag, Jr. and Rosemary Dorothy (Kirn) Hoag.

Born with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, Justin never let this get in the way of achieving his goals. He graduated with the Class of 2005 from Cooperstown Central School, where he was affectionately known as "Hoagster the Weatherman" for his ability to accurately predict the weather.

Due to the extraordinary care provided to Justin by his mother and father, Rosie and Don Hoag, he was able to enjoy many experiences traveling and camping throughout the United States. An avid baseball fan, he was devoted to his New York Yankees and was thrilled when he got to meet his idol, Derek Jeter. He also personally met Goose Gossage, Reggie Jackson, Pete Rose, and Yogi Berra, who visited with Justin at his home. A fan of NASCAR, Justin also met his favorite drivers, Dale Earnhardt and Jeff Gordon. Justin also loved watching TV- never missing an episode of "Days of Our Lives" or a Yankee game - as well as listening to country music, especially Garth Brooks, Toby Keith, Don Williams and his beloved Taylor Swift. He even liked Neil Diamond! Justin was a whiz on the computer and after high school he used it to educate himself . In later years he utilized a special program that allowed him to use the keyboard by means of a special device he moved with his cheek.

Justin will be forever greatly missed by his mother and father, Rosie and Don Hoag of Cooperstown; his sister, Tammy Sickmon and her husband, John and their children, Garrett and Rianna of Cortland; and his grandmothers, Christine Gray and her husband, Robert, and Barbara Hoag of the Town of Maryland. He is further survived by his many aunts and uncles including Joan and Timothy Cauley, Edward and Pat Kirn, Jr., Robert and Charlene Kirn, Mark and Robin Walley, John and Jennifer Walley, Steven and Yvonne Hoag, Kimberly and David Beckley, Heather Gray, Hayden Gray, Luca Gray, Lori Motel, and Madeline Socci; several great aunts and uncles; and many, many cousins. Justin touched many lives and will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

He was predeceased by his maternal grandparents, Edward Louis Kirn, Sr. and Mollie Marie Oblak Kirn; his paternal grandfather, Donald Philip Hoag; his beloved great-grandmother, Ruth M. Gray; and great uncle Edward Socci.

Justin's family wishes to express deep appreciation to his caregivers, Jen Marriott and Mary Kohler and their families for the kind, compassionate and understanding care they provided, as well as, all the doctors and nurses of Bassett Healthcare. Also a very special heartfelt thanks to long time childhood friends, Jake, Billy and Ben Smith, who were like brothers to Justin, and their father Russie Smith. They would also like to thank all their co-workers for their continued support and understanding over the years, and deep appreciation to Fly Creek Emergency Squad, Cooperstown Emergency Squad and the Cooperstown Fire Department for all their care and consideration of Justin.

As Justin would often say, "I'll be okay, Mama!"

Friends may call at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown on Friday, September 30, 2016, from 4 - 7 p.m. when Justin's family will be in attendance.

On Saturday, October 1, 2016, Justin will be brought to the Hartwick Seminary Cemetery aboard Cooperstown Fire Department's 1952 Mack Fire Truck for a funeral service at 1 p.m. with the Rev. Ronald Fralick, officiating.

Should friends so desire, expressions of sympathy may take the form of memorial gifts to Cooperstown Central School for the benefit of a scholarship to be created in memory of Justin. Please make checks payable to "Cooperstown Central School", place Justin's name in the memo line, and mail to the attention of the Business Office at 39 Linden Avenue, Cooperstown, NY 13326.

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

Orrin D. Higgins

1940 - 2016

HARTWICK - Orrin Dixon Higgins, 76, a former New York State Trooper, Undersheriff for the Otsego County Sheriff's Department and longtime Justice for the Town of Hartwick, passed away Wednesday afternoon, September 21, 2016, at his home in Hartwick with his family by his side.

He was born June 8, 1940, in Hunter, a son of Leland and Mildred (Nicholls) Higgins.

After graduating from high school he attended the State University of New York College in Oneonta with the idea of becoming a teacher. He became a student teacher, but changed course and went on to attend and graduate from the New York State Police Academy .

His career in law enforcement spanned over fifty years, during which time he served as a New York State Trooper based out of several different posts in the Central New York region. He also served as Undersheriff for the Otsego County Sheriff's Department and was currently serving as a Justice for the Town of Hartwick, a post he held for twenty years.

He was an active member of the Hartwick community. He served on the Hartwick Planning Board for many years, organized community events, served on the Board of the Hartwick Insurance Co. and lobbied to keep Hartwick's schools active. He was also actively involved with keeping the Hartwick Center Union Cemetery maintained and in good order, and was instrumental in preserving the Swart-Wilcox Home, now a museum in Oneonta.

It was always important to Orrin that history be preserved and passed on to future generations, which he did through the collection and restoration of antiques and buildings throughout the counties. Always an environmental advocate, Orrin worked extensively with Otsego 2000 and Otsego Land Trust through the years and preserved as many open acres as his bank account would allow.

It was at a dance at the Fly Creek Hotel that Orrin met Mary E. Millea. The pair was a perfect match and were married July 29, 1974, in a ceremony at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Cooperstown. Sadly, his beloved Mary passed away just this past December following a long illness.

Orrin will be greatly missed by his family and the community at large. He was always known for his sense of humor, the twinkle in his eyes, compassion for people and animals, and commitment to fairness and justice.

Orrin is survived by three daughters, Brenda Nass (Bryan) of Ellensburg, Washington, Tamara Ashley (Matt) of Cortland, and Carrie Higgins Lorenz (Mike) of Hartwick; son Orrin D. Higgins, Jr. (Melissa) of Hartwick; special member of the family, Paige Shaul (Nicole); and four grandchildren, Mitchell and Morghan Nass of Ellensburg, WA and Lily and Sawyer Higgins of Hartwick.

He is further survived by his brothers, John (Mary) Higgins, Richard (Kathy) Higgins and Leland (Lucy) Higgins, his nieces Shelly, Jackie and Becky and nephews Bill, John and Rich. He is also survived by many members of the Millea family including his wife's father, six brothers and one sister and their families.

With respect for Orrin's love of his stone house at the four corners in Hartwick, calling hours will take place at 3109 County Highway 11, from 3-6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, September 28, 2016.

Orrin loved flowers, but for those who wish to remember him with a memorial gift, his family suggests that donations be made to the Hartwick Emergency Squad, P.O. Box 208, Hartwick, NY 13348, or The Hartwick Historical Society, P.O. Box 1, Hartwick, NY 13348.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Bassett Medicine and Special Care Units, Bassett Cancer Treatment Center, Hartwick Emergency Squad, his home health aides and his many friends and family members who supported him through these hard times.

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

Carol Ann Krisch

1955 - 2016

FORK SHOP - Carol Ann Krisch, 61, died unexpectedly early Thursday morning, September 8, 2016, at her home in Fork Shop.

She was born August 3, 1955, at the Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown, a daughter of Rudy J. and Elizabeth Katherine (Schultz) Krisch.

Raised in Fork Shop, she graduated from Cooperstown High School with the Class of 1974. Her first job was managing the Quickway in Hartwick, as well as the Hartwick Vets Club.

She will be fondly remembered for her 16 years with Cooperstown Central School District serving as a teacher's aide as well as a monitor both in the Elementary and Middle/High School buildings and on school buses. She truly adored each and every student and treated them as if they were her own. Her presence will be greatly missed by the students, faculty, administration and staff at CCS.

A member of the Native Daughters of Cooperstown, Carol Ann was also an active member of the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 579 in Cooperstown and was currently serving as Secretary.

Carol Ann is survived by her sister, Katherine Redding and her husband, Thomas ("Stretch") Redding of Hartwick; her beloved nephew, Thomas John Redding and his fiancé, Dayna, of Hartwick (Carol was really looking forward to being a great aunt in the near future); and her extended family of Tom's friends, including Pat, Tyler, Brad and Ryan. She will especially be missed by her faithful Great Dane, Charlie.

She was predeceased by her father, Rudy J. Krisch, who died October 5, 1991, her mother, Elizabeth "Liz" Krisch, who died September 24, 2010; her son, Joseph Anthony Brunner, who died January 1, 1988; and a nephew, Andrew Thomas Barrett, who died October 4, 1991.

Friends may call at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown on Monday, September 12, 2016, from 4-7 p.m., when Carol Ann's family will be in attendance.

The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be offered at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, September 13, 2016, 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.

As an alternative to flowers, Carol Ann's family respectfully requests that donations in her memory be directed to Friends of Bassett, 1 Atwell Road, Cooperstown, NY 13326 for the benefit of pediatric cardiology.

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

Doris Ruth Crippen

1920 - 2016

COOPERSTOWN - Doris Ruth Crippen, 95, a long-time resident of Cooperstown, passed away Thursday night. September 8, 2016.

She was born November 14, 1920, in Albany, the daughter of John and Pearl (Empie) Parcher.

For many years she was employed as a nursing assistant at the Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown.

Doris is survived by her five children, Ruth (Al) Greco of Bainbridge, NY; George (Toni) Crippen of Cooperstown, NY; Patricia Crippen of Ontario, NY; Michael (Joan) Crippen of The Villages, FL; and John (Paula) Crippen of Guilford, NY. She is also survived by 12 grandchildren, 28 great grandchildren and a special nephew, Ronald Jamison of Cherry Valley, NY.

She was predeceased by two sisters, Eva Rowe and Daisy Eckert; and a granddaughter, Cheri Crippen.

Service will be private. Doris will be laid to rest with her parents in Memory Gardens Cemetery and Memorial Park in Albany.

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

Keith D. Olmstead

1962 - 2016

COOPERSTOWN - Keith Douglas Olmstead, 54, of Cooperstown, died unexpectedly early Friday afternoon, August 26, 2016, at Samaritan Hospital in Troy.

He was born May 16, 1962, the son of Douglas John Olmstead and Rose Marie née Dziergowski.

Raised in Middlefield, he graduated from Cherry Valley High School with the Class of 1980. On September 10, 1981, he entered into active service in the United States Army and served as a medical specialist. He went on to become a practical nurse and ward master for 11 years, and received his honorable discharge from the Military March 17, 1995, while stationed at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, DC.

Through the years, Keith was employed as a Licensed Practical Nurse at several places, including The Meadows and Otsego Manor, as well as Albany Stratton VA Medical Center in Albany.

Since January 2013 Keith has been a member of the Disabled American Veterans.

Keith is survived by his wife Grace and sons Joshua and Nathaniel; a son Kristopher and a daughter Kelly and their mother Tina; a daughter Corey and her mother Maggie; and sons Eli and Samuel and their mother Tara. He is further survived by two sisters Karen and Kathleen; several nieces, nephews and cousins and their families; and two special uncles, Michael and Stephen.

He was predeceased by his mother Rose Marie who died July 24, 1972; his step mother Esther who died September 26, 2010; and his father Douglas who died February 14, 2014.

Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, September 10, 2016, in Hartwick Seminary Cemetery, with the Rev. Douglas Burleigh officiating. Military Honors will be accorded by members of the New York State Military Forces Honor Guard and the Cooperstown Veterans Club.

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

Rochelle Semel

1933 - 2016

HARTWICK - Rochelle Semel, artist, social and labor activist, teacher, and all around lover of life, died peacefully August 27, 2016, after a short, but serious illness.

She will be deeply missed by her children Danny and Lani, her daughter-in-law Amelia, and her other family and dear friends.

Rochelle was born in 1933 in the Bronx to Joseph and Julia Posner, and after many travels, eventually settled in Hartwick with her partner of 36 years, Paul Poulos (1938-2016).

Deeply caring, intelligent and aware, Rochelle brought these qualities into her personal life and her work. Rochelle was a talented artist, as well as Director of Trade Union Women Studies for Cornell's ILR School. Even after retirement, Rochelle continued for decades to teach at UALE Northeast Summer School for Union Women at Cornell.

In 1976 she joined the I.W.W. which reflected her values and passions, leading to her deep involvement with the union. She participated in many roles over the years, including a period serving as General Secretary-Treasurer.

Rochelle appreciated simple pleasures such as reading, watching classic movies and cultivating the beautiful gardens where she lived.

She will be forever held in the hearts of those whose lives she's touched.

Services will be held on August 30, 2016, in Cooperstown at Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home.

James Robert Millea

1955 - 2016

ARIZONA - James Robert Millea, 61, of Glendale, Arizona, and formerly of Hartwick, died unexpectedly Monday, August 15, 2016, from injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident in Scottsdale.

Jim was born May 31, 1955, in Emmetsburg, Iowa, one of nine children of James Hilary Millea of Rolfe, Iowa, and Kathleen M. née Healy Millea of Bootle, England. As a young child, Jim and his family moved from Iowa to Oneonta and then settled in Hartwick in 1957.

After graduating from Cooperstown Central School with the Class of 1974, Jim became a carpenter, and for over 40 years worked as an independent contractor in New Jersey and then Arizona. For the past 15 years he resided in Glendale, Arizona.

Throughout his life, he was an avid cyclist, loved motorcycle trips with his family and time outside hiking in nature.

Jim is survived by his father, James H. Millea of Hartwick; three children and five grandchildren, Christopher J. Millea and wife, Jennifer, and their daughter, Meghan, of Montgomery, Matthew J. Millea and wife, Lori, and their children, Ethan, Aaron and Luke, of Mechanicville, and Kathleen Seale and husband, Jason, and their daughter, Juniper, of Austin, Texas. He is further survived by seven siblings, Eileen Murdock and husband, Robert of Hartwick, Thomas P. Millea and wife, Carole of Peru, NY, Denis J. Millea and wife, Janice of Peru, NY, Joseph H. Millea and wife, Susan of Yacolt, WA, Patrick M. Millea and wife, Wendy of Maryland, NY, Michael J. Millea and wife, Jennifer, of Hartwick, NY, and Robert W. Millea and wife, Sukena of Atlanta, GA; a brother-in-law, Orrin D. Higgins of Hartwick, NY and many, many nieces and nephews and their families.

He was predeceased by his mother, Kathleen H. Millea, who died March 23, 1993, and a sister, Mary E. Higgins, who died December 14, 2015.

Family and friends are invited to call and pay their respects from 4-6 p.m. on Wednesday, August 24, 2016, at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown.

The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be offered at 11 a.m. on Thursday, August 25, 2016, at St. Mary's "Our Lady of the Lake" Roman Catholic Church, 31 Elm Street, Cooperstown, with Fr. David Wm. Mickiewicz, pastor of St. Mary's Church in Oneonta, presiding.

The Service of Committal and Burial will follow in Hartwick Cemetery.

Jim's family respectfully requests that expressions of sympathy in the form of memorial gifts be directed to the Cooperstown Sports Booster Club for the benefit of the new concession stand. Donations may be mailed to P.O. Box 141, Cooperstown, NY 13326.

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

Donna Lee Bailey

1946 - 2016

ONEONTA - Donna Lee Bailey, 69, passed away on August 15, 2016, at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown.

Donna was born on September 24, 1946, at the Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown, a daughter of the late Maurice (Mike) and Cora Wikoff. A graduate of Cooperstown High School, she attended SUNY Cobleskill and graduated from the Culinary Arts Program at ONC BOCES.

Donna was a member of the First Baptist Church of Cooperstown, and fondly remembered being part of the youth group that built the Youth Chapel. She also lovingly crocheted the nativity scene that for many years has been placed in the sanctuary during the Christmas Season.

Over the years Donna worked at the Great American grocery store, the dietary department of Bassett Hospital and the Cooperstown General Store. She loved working with people, and her boisterous laughter could be heard anywhere she was.

Donna is survived by her daughters from her marriage in 1969 to Ronald Louis Bailey: Anna Mary Stone (Laura) of Cobleskill and Gretchen Rose Bailey of San Diego, California. Her pride and joy were her grandchildren: Cheyenne Katriana Bailey of San Diego, California, and Daniel Jaykob Bailey of Cobleskill. She is also survived by her siblings, Dawn of Las Vegas, Nevada, Terry (Paula) of Cooperstown, Mark (Delsia) of St. Louis, Missouri, Kim of Cooperstown, and Lori Anna of Las Vegas, Nevada. She also leaves behind special friends Bonny and Vera and her dog, Ginger. Donna was blessed to have nieces Chery, Tulsa, Hannah and Sarai, and nephews Joshua, Kyle, Joseph, Matthew, Micah and Shane, as well as many great nieces and nephews whom she adored.

Donna's greatest joy in life was her family and friends, and while she was not often able to see them as much as she liked because of her state of health, she loved staying up-to-date and looking at pictures on Facebook.

Every time she had a chance she was sewing or crocheting baby clothes, blankets and turtle rattles for each of the babies.

Thank you to all of Donna's loving friends at Nader Towers, to all of our friends and family who have showered us with love, support and prayers, and to the nurses, staff and doctors at Bassett Medical Center, and at the Bassett Clinic at 125 Main in Oneonta. All of you made her last days on earth happy days.

Donna did not want a funeral, so we will be having a celebration of her life that will take place from 2-4 p.m. Sunday, August 21, 2016 at Nader Towers, 2 Mitchell Street, Oneonta. Please dress casually, and do not wear black-she hated black!

Donations can be given in Donna's memory to the First Baptist Church of Cooperstown, 19 Elm Street, Cooperstown, NY 13326, or the Nader Towers Resident's Organization.

The Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown is assisting the family.