Paul J. Lambert

COOPERSTOWN (Updated 1/2/2018)  - Paul J. Lambert, former Principal and Superintendent of Schools for the Cooperstown Central School District and later Director of the Clark Foundation Scholarship Program, as well as a coach and well-respected member of the community, passed away late Wednesday night, December 27, 2017, at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown. A loving and supportive husband, father, and grandfather, he was 87.

The community is invited to pay their respects to the Lambert Family from 3-6 p.m. Friday, January 19, 2018, at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown.

The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be offered at 10 a.m. Saturday, January 20, 2018, at St. Mary's "Our Lady of the Lake" Roman Catholic Church in Cooperstown.

A complete obituary will be forthcoming.

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 M. Levine

1952 - 2017

PORTLANDVILLE - Bernice M. Levine, 84, of Portlandville, passed away unexpectedly Monday evening, December 25, 2017, at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown. 

She was born March 11, 1933, in Springfield, a daughter of Leslie and Edna (Drake) Pierce. 

On May 10, 1952, Bernice married Paul J. Levine.

For many years she was employed by the Cooperstown Central School District in their food service department. 

Bernice is survived by her husband of 65 years, Paul J. Levine of Portlandville; two children, Paula Jean Knoebel of Southampton and Alan Levine and wife, Patsy; grandson Joshua Levine; granddaughter Ashley Levine and companion, Angelo Tenace; a great granddaughter Ronnee Rae Tenace; many nieces and nephews; and a sister, Wanda Houck. 

She was predeceased by mother Edna Pierce who died in 2003; sister Ellie Schults who died in 1980; and son-in-law, Terry Knoebel who died in 2012.

There will be no services.

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.

Emily Weir Thorn

1921 - 2017

HARTWICK - Emily Weir Thorn, 96, of Cooperstown and Hartwick, passed away Wednesday night, December 20, 2017, at Focus Rehabilitation and Nursing Center at Otsego.

She was born August 19, 1921 in Adams to Bower F. and Clara (Cleaver) Weir. When Emily was only two years old her mom died of tuberculosis. 

In 1925, the family moved to Fly Creek, where Emily attended a one-room country school. She later attended school in Cooperstown, and graduated with the Class of 1939. 

Emily married Kenneth E. Thorn on August 24, 1941, in a ceremony at the First Baptist Church of Cooperstown.

Following her marriage to Ken, Emily lived most of her life in Cooperstown where she was employed at the Cooperstown Academy run by Herbert E. Pickett on Pioneer Street, and later Cooperstown Central School. From 1952 until her retirement in 1986 she was employed at the Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital, where she spent another 21 years as a volunteer in the hospital gift shop.

A member of the Hartwick United Methodist Church, she was also a member of the Native Daughters of Cooperstown and the Hartwick Senior Citizens. 

Emily loved to cook and bake and was famous for her homemade donuts, graham cracker pies and strawberry jam. She also enjoyed tending her flowers and taking care of the birds.

Emily is survived by her children, Judith (David) Jackson of Oneonta, John (Barbara) Thorn of Hartwick and Janice (Jerry) Gage of Hartwick. She is also survived by 17 grandchildren, 30+ great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren, as well as a brother-in-law, Robert Hribar of Fly Creek, several nieces, nephews and cousins and friends too numerous to count. 

She was predeceased by her parents, Bower and Clara; her husband, Kenneth E. Thorn, who died February 17, 1971; two stepsons, Allen and Donald Thorn; two half sisters, Ruth Curran and Leta Jane Hribar; and two grandsons, Anthony R. Gage and Kenneth Strait.

Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, December 26, 2017, at the Hartwick United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Richard D. Howard, pastor officiating. 

Family and friends are invited to call at the Church Tuesday morning from 10 a.m. until the time of the service.

Burial will take place in the Spring of 2018 in the Fly Creek Valley Cemetery in Fly Creek.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Focus Otsego Serenity Place Activities Fund, 128 Phoenix Mills Cross Road, Cooperstown, NY 13326 for the benefit of resident needs. Donations may also be made to the Susquehanna Animal Shelter, 4841 State Highway 28, Cooperstown, NY 13326 or the Hartwick United Methodist Church, PO Box 44, 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.

Helen J. Forrest

1945 - 2018

MARYLAND - Helen June Collar Forrest, 72, of Maryland, passed away Tuesday morning, December 19, 2017, with family by her side at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown.

She was born June 15, 1945, in Oneonta, a daughter of Howard R. and Marlynn (Lints) Collar. 

A graduate of Edmeston Central School, Helen was employed throughout most of her life as a cook in the food service industry. Through the years she worked at Robynwood and for SUNY Oneonta, as well as at the Lake Front Restaurant in Cooperstown. 

While she didn’t like cold weather, she still enjoyed the snow, especially sledding.

On August 10, 1990, Helen married Edward W. Forrest in a ceremony at her sister, Judy's home in the Town of Davenport. 

In addition to her husband of 27 years, Helen is survived by her children, Jodi Norton of Johnstown and Brenda Carvin and husband, Wayne, of Maryland; three sisters, Marion Card and husband, Richard of Hartwick, Judy Utter and husband, Fred of Davenport, and Cindy Baxter and husband, Gary of Maryland; five grandchildren, Robert Smith and wife, Danielle, Benjamin and Jessica Rogers, Meghan Norton and Brianna Carvin; 8 great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her mother, Marlynn Lints Collar who died November 16, 1971; her father, Howard R. Collar who died August 13, 1993; a daughter, Wendy Sue Smith who died in 1964; and a brother, Donald H. Collar who died April 2, 2017. 

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Saturday, December 23, 2017, at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown.

Following the visitation, a Funeral Service will be offered at 1 p.m. on Saturday afternoon at the funeral home, with the Rev. Ken Zulkosky, associate pastor at Main Street Baptist Church in Oneonta officiating.

Burial will be in the Spring of 2018 in Bennett Cemetery in West Laurens.

As an alternative to flowers, and with respect for Helen's love of animals, the family requests that memorial donations be directed to Community Veterinary Center Compassion Fund, 4109 State Highway 7,Oneonta, NY 13820. This fund is utilized to help those who need financial assistance in the care of their animals, as well as to pay for the care of stray animals. 

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.

Ralph "Mickey" Ryan

1930 - 2017

MILFORD - Mickey Ryan, 87, of Milford, passed away Wednesday afternoon, December 13, 2017, at the New York State Veterans' Home at Oxford where he was given compassionate care after he succumbed to Alzheimer's. Mickey loved life and people, worked hard and played even harder.

Born October 23, 1930, at home in the Town of  Hamptonburgh, he was the son of Edward and Helen (Cutler) Ryan.

He grew up in Maybrook where he was known for his baseball abilities. He continued to play baseball and later softball into his fifties. Mickey met his future wife, Carma Perrego at a skating rink in Newburgh -- he always said she was the prettiest girl there. On October 21, 1951, Mickey and Carma were married in Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Newburgh.

He proudly served his country in the United States Navy on the USS Van Valkenburgh during the Korean Conflict. He often said that if he did not have a family, he would have made the Navy his career.

Mickey went on to run a dairy farm in Campbell Hall, which was located next to the fire hall where he was proud to have always been the first one to answer alarms. In 1963 he fulfilled his dream by buying his own dairy farm on the Hinman Hollow Road in Milford, where he and his wife raised their five children.

Mickey was very active in the Milford American Legion Post No. 1566 -- it was his second home. One of his favorite pastimes there was calling Bingo every Sunday night. He not only served as commander at the local level, but also served as the New York State American Legion Commander. Proud to be a lifetime member of the Milford Post, he was equally proud of being a lifetime member of the Sgt. Walter P. Eggleston Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 7128 in Cooperstown.

During retirement from dairy farming, Mickey loved his work at the Leatherstocking Golf Course in Cooperstown, where his love of people shone through every day. 

Mickey was predeceased by his beloved wife of 58 years, Carma Perrego Ryan, who died September 18, 2009; his mother, Helen Ryan, who died while Mickey was serving overseas in the Korean Conflict; his father, Edward Ryan; his sister, Sylvia Orman; his aunts who loved him as a mother, Lucy Coville and Ida Berberick; and his loving out-law, Ken Kiser, who died November 1, 2005. 

Mickey is survived by his dear sister, Annie Snyder and husband, George of Campbell Hall; his five children, Patrick Ryan (Chris) of Campbell Hall, Deborah Kiser of Fly Creek, Mike Ryan (Chris) of Virginia Beach, VA, Sandy Strong (Mike) of Milford and Kelly Liner (Tom) of Cooperstown.  He is also survived by his twelve grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren, Michelle (Chuck), Alex and Riley Hite of Connecticut, Christopher (Melissa) and Bentley Kiser of Cortland, Kristin and Isabella "Bella" Strong of Milford, Melissa (Josh) Ashlyn and Owen Spriggs of Youngstown, Michael Kiser of Florida, Ashley (Adam) and Elizabeth Wetherbee of Connecticut, Alicia (Scott) and Ayla Flint of Cherry Valley, Sean (Riann) and Taylor Ryan of Connecticut, Ryan (Megan) and Adalynn Strong of Richfield Springs, Kyle (Paula) Liner, and Derek and Brooke Liner all of Cooperstown and Sierra Truax of Campbell Hall. There are many nieces and nephews who will also miss their Uncle Mickey.

Family and friends may call at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown, from 3-6 p.m. on Sunday, December 17, 2017.

The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be offered at 10 a.m. Monday, December 18, 2017, at St. Mary's "Our Lady of the Lake" Roman Catholic Church in Cooperstown, with Fr. John P. Rosson, pastor, presiding. 

Burial with Military Honors will be held in the Spring of 2018 in Milford Cemetery. 

Since music brought his mind back to life memorial donations in lieu of flowers may be made to the Music Therapy Department at the New York State Veterans' Home at Oxford, 4207 State Highway 220, Oxford, NY  13830. Memorial donations may also be made to the Milford American Legion Post No. 1566, P.O. Box 22, Milford, NY  13807 or to the Cooperstown Veterans Club, P.O. Box 1264, 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.

Joseph Piambino

1939 - 2017

COOPERSTOWN - Joseph Piambino, 78, formerly of Long Island, passed away early Sunday morning, December 10, 2017, at his home on Hade Hollow Road with his family by his side.

He was born August 1, 1939, in Brooklyn, a son of Frank and Frances (Ingargiola) Piambino. 

He married Linda Ketcham on September 3, 1988, in Mt. Sinai, NY. 

For many years Joe was employed as a manufacturing engineer with Sperry Rand at their plant in Lake Success. 

Following his retirement, Joe and Linda moved from Long Island to Cooperstown.

An avid outdoorsman, Joe enjoyed fishing and boating as well as skeet shooting, and was a member of the Cooperstown Sportsmen's Association and the Richfield Sportsmen's Club.

Joe played guitar for many years and performed as lead guitarist in a band called Rhythm, Inc. from 1970-1980. 

Joe is survived by his loving wife, Linda, of Cooperstown; two sons, Frank Piambino and companion, Connie, of Alplaus, and Daniel Molyneux and wife, Bernadette of Shirley; four grandchildren, James, Emily, Thomas and Joseph; and one brother, Thomas Piambino and wife, Jean, of Island Park.

The family will receive friends from 2-4 p.m. Wednesday, December 13, 2017, at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown.

A Funeral Service will be offered at 7 p.m. Wednesday evening at the funeral home with Fr. John P. Rosson, pastor of St. Mary's "Our Lady of the Lake" Roman Catholic Church in Cooperstown, officiating. Immediately following the services, the family will continue receiving friends until 9 p.m. 

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.

Mary L. Gray

1929 - 2017

COOPERSTOWN - Mary Louise Gray, 88, of Cooperstown, passed away Saturday evening, December 9, 2017, at her home on Walnut Street with her sister, Connie and nephew, Brent at her side. 

She was born January 13, 1929, at the Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown and was graduate of Cooperstown High School, Class of 1948. She was first employed as a part-time telephone operator at the Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital, where she also made formulas for the maternity and pediatric wards and the central supply department. 

In 1957, Mary went to work for Herkimer Memorial Hospital where she was responsible for setting up central supply, inventory, ordering supplies, making surgical packs, and supervising staff personnel. In November 1984, Mary left Herkimer and joined the staff at A.O. Fox Memorial Hospital, but after six months she took time off to care for her mother, Kathryn. 

A determined individual, Mary took it upon herself to apply her education and experience in a new field and enrolled at Herkimer County Community College, where she eventually received a teachers' aide certificate.

For many years she was a faithful and devoted member of the First Presbyterian Church of Cooperstown. She will be especially remembered for helping out with almost every rummage sale at the church.

In her leisure, Mary always enjoyed shopping trips to New York City, especially at Christmas time. On one of these trips, she and her nephew, Brent, decided to go to the top of the Empire State Building, and at the age of 83 Mary got off the elevator and climbed the stairs for the final twelve floors. She also enjoyed horse racing and made several trips each summer to the Saratoga Race Course. 

Mary is survived by her sister, Constance ("Connie") Gray and her son, Brent, of Cooperstown; one aunt, Dorine Gray, and four cousins, Stephen, Michael and Jim Gray and David Austin. 

She was predeceased by her mother, Kathryn Masten, who died September 13, 1996. 

Abiding by Mary's requests, there will be no services.

She will be laid to rest in Hartwick Seminary Cemetery. 

As a way to remember Mary, her family requests that memorial donations be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Cooperstown, 25 Church Street, 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.

Edward C. Storck

1948 - 2017

BURLINGTON FLATS - Edward Casey Storck, age 69, passed into eternal life Tuesday, December 5, 2017, at his home in the Town of Burlington. 

He was born April 21, 1948, in Brooklyn, the eldest son of Edward and Geraldine (Dee) Storck. He was raised in Congers, Rockland County.

A true conservationist, Edward worked as a Chief Operating Engineer for the City of New York (DEP) in the Grahamsville Water Treatment Plant, retiring in 2003.

Ed lived for hunting and fishing, no matter what season it may be.

On October 11, 2002, Ed married Denise Taylor in Matamoras, Pennsylvania. After living in Orange County, Ed and Denise moved to Forestburgh in Sullivan County. After a romantic trip on Valentine's Day to Cooperstown, they decided to relocate to Otsego County in 2009 and made their home in the Town of Burlington. 

On April 13, 2016, Ed was Raised in Farmers Lodge No. 553, Free and Accepted Masons in Edmeston. Brother Storck truly enjoyed the brotherhood and fellowship of being a Mason. 

Ed is survived by his beloved wife, Denise Storck; their three children and four grandchildren, Chief Warrant Officer Elliott Weidel, USMC, his wife, Katylynn, and their children Leila and Liam of Okinawa, Japan, Michelle Galligan, FNP, her husband, Scott, and their children Hunter and Julie Grace of Cuddebackville, and Captain Michael Weidel, US Army, of Tennessee. He is further survived by his brother, Patrick Storck. 

In addition to his parents, Ed was predeceased by his sister, Kathleen Storck.

The family will receive friends from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, December 8, 2017, at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown. At 7 p.m. a Masonic Memorial Service will be conducted at the funeral home by Brothers from Farmers Lodge No. 553, F. & A.M. 

The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be offered at 10 a.m. on Saturday, December 9, 2017, at St. Mary's "Our Lady of the Lake" Roman Catholic Church in Cooperstown, with Fr. John P. Rosson, pastor officiating. 

Immediately following Mass, all are welcome for a time of refreshment and fellowship at the Masonic Temple at 13 West Street in Edmeston. 

As an alternative to flowers, please consider a donation in memory of Ed to Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675

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.

John J. Thorpe

1927 - 2017

HARTWICK - John J. Thorpe, age 90, died Sunday afternoon, November 26, 2017, at Focus Rehabilitation and Nursing Center at Otsego. 

Born July 17, 1927, in Union City, New Jersey, John was the son of John and Alice Thorpe. Raised in Washington Township, he graduated from Westwood Regional High School. He was then inducted into the United States Army and proudly served his country during World War II. He often recalled the great time he and many other servicemen had in New York City on V-J Day. 

After his military service, John attended Fairleigh Dickinson University and graduated with a bachelor's degree. For many years he was employed as a chemist with American Cyanamid in Pearl River. 

On May 15, 1954, John married Jean Cary in Westwood, New Jersey. In 1956 they moved first to Pearl River and then Nanuet where they raised their family. In 1995 John and Jean moved to Hartwick and settled on West Hill. 

Throughout his life John enjoyed fishing, hunting and target shooting, as well as boating on Otsego Lake. 

John is survived by two daughters, Nancy Higgins and her husband, John, of Middletown, and Carol Stankard of Hartwick; and a granddaughter, Jennifer Jean Casey -- who he affectionately called Rascal -- and her husband, Thomas of Middletown. He is further survived by one sister, Lucille Jorgensen of Pearl River, and her children, Kathe Jorgensen and Peter Jorgensen and wife, Brenda. 

He was predeceased by his wife of 62 years, Jean Thorpe who died March 12, 2017; a son, John J. Thorpe, Jr. who died in 1976 and a son-in-law, Matt Stankard who died in 1999.

A private graveside service will be held in George Washington Memorial Park, Paramus, New Jersey.

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.

David Carl Lincoln, Sr.

1946 - 2017

ONEONTA - David Carl Lincoln, Sr., 71, of Oneonta, passed away peacefully with family by his side Saturday morning, November 25, 2017, at Focus Rehabilitation and Nursing Center at Otsego. 

He was born May 7, 1946, in Ithaca, a son of Carl and Evelyn (Millspaugh) Lincoln. 

After graduating from Interlaken High School he attended Empire State College where he earned a bachelor's degree in psychology.

For many years he was employed in Schoharie, Seneca, Steuben and Otsego Counties as an officer with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

David is survived by his beloved wife of 49 years, Evelina Fuller Lincoln; brother, John Lincoln (Ginny); sons, David (Laura), Chris, John and Mike (Victoria); grandchildren, Megan, Cassandra, Xanthian, Quinten, Tristen, Chris, Jeffery, Carter, Sadie, Emily, John Henry, Magnolia and Cooper; nieces and nephews, Matt (Brenda), Casey (Tina), and Carrie Wood (Jim); great nieces and nephews, Cody, Hunter, Zoey, Cameron, Jack, Rachel, Wyatt, Tanner and Lincoln. 

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, December 9, 2017, at SUNY Oneonta's Morris Conference Center beginning at 1 p.m., with a reception to follow. 

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the NHT Camps, c/o Director of Management and Budget Services, NYSDEC, 625 Broadway, Albany, NY 12233-5010. Please write DEC Camps in memory of David Lincoln in the memo section of your check. 

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


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.

Jacqueline Parshall

JAMESVILLE - Jacqueline Parshall passed away Thursday afternoon, November 23, 2017, at St. Joseph's Hospital Health Center in Syracuse after a brief illness.

She was born in Cooperstown, a daughter of Chester O. and Rosalina M. (Pugliese) Bridger. 

Raised in the family home on Maple Street in Cooperstown, Jackie graduated from Cooperstown High School with the Class of 1964. She then attended Brockport State College and graduated in 1968 with a bachelor's degree in education.

Jackie was an avid sports fan and closely followed the New York Yankees and Syracuse University's teams. She was an enthusiastic amateur golfer and a member for more than 20 years at the Pompey Club, where she currently served as treasurer of the women's golf league.

She also enjoyed bowling, playing cards and taking trips to the Central New York casinos with her family members and close friends. 

She was a long-time supporter and volunteer for the Special Olympics in Upstate New York.

Surviving are her daughter, Leigh-Ann Parshall of Jamesville, and her siblings, Phyllis Newell of Hartwick and Chester T. "Tim" Bridger and wife, Lora of Tonawanda and their families.

She was predeceased by her husband of 44 years, Harry L. Parshall III, who died February 23, 2013; her father, Chet Bridger who died August 13, 1994; her mother, Rosie Bridger who died January 8, 2011; and a brother-in-law, Gary Michael "Mike" Newell, who died December 23, 2016. 

Per Jackie's wishes, there will be no services. Burial will be later in Lakewood Cemetery, Cooperstown.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish may donate to Pathfinder Village Foundation, 3 Chenango Road, Edmeston, NY 13335-2314.

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.

Mary R. Wright

1924 - 2017

When the sun fades far away in the crimson of the west,
And the voices of the day murmur low and sink to rest.
Music with the twilight falls o'er the dreaming lake and dell; 
'Tis an echo from the walls of our own, our fair Cornell.

-- Henry Tyrrell, Cornell University Class of 1880

COOPERSTOWN - Mary R. Wright, who lit many new trails for women during her sixty years in hospitality as one of the first women hired to manage a hotel, chair a collegiate hospitality program, and start her own consulting practice, died on November 8, 2017, at her home in Cooperstown. She was 93.

Born July 1, 1924, in Syracuse, she was the only child of Roy Lafayette Wright, who was born in Siloam, and Syracuse-born Laura M. Newman Wright Barnard.

Raised in Herkimer, Miss Wright was introduced to Otsego County as a junior in high school when her father arranged a summer job for her as a carhop at Ye Olde Dutch Mill in Emmons.  Intrigued by the business, she took to waiting on tables the following summer and, on graduating from Herkimer High School, enrolled in Cornell University's hospitality management program. One of only five women among the one hundred students in her first year-class, she gave no thought to Cornell's male-dominated classes. In 1945 she graduated with honors and spent the next decade in New York City, first at Hilton's Plaza Hotel and then Horwath & Horwath, hotel accountants and consultants. A 1954 engagement took her to the Canadian Teachers' Federation, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. From there she went to McCormick & Co. in Baltimore, MD, then to two Boston-based hotel firms. In 1963 she was appointed Treadway Innkeeper in Batavia, where she was awarded the key to the city for community relations.  

She moved on to manage other properties until tapped in 1979 by Genesee Community College in Batavia to develop its hospitality-management program. Thereafter Miss Wright taught at Rochester Institute of Technology and Tiffin (Ohio) University, where she retired in 1990 and began consulting. Later she returned to Batavia as staff resident at the then "Victorian Manor." In 2001 she moved to Cooperstown and assisted at the Fly Creek Cider Mill until fully retiring in 2009 due to vision challenges. 

For many years she was an active Cornell and Hotel School alumna, holding offices in successive areas, raising scholarship funds, and writing class-news columns.  

In 1989 Mary joined Rotary in Tiffin and maintained her active membership until being designated an associate member in Cooperstown. A Paul Harris Fellow, she was curator of the Cooperstown Club's collection of over 720 banners. From her perspective, Rotary's motto, "Service Above Self" made membership a perfect fit for someone who was service-minded from the very beginning, and whose career was the service industry.  

Raised in the Episcopal faith, Mary found much comfort in later years as a devoted and faithful member of the First Presbyterian Church of Cooperstown.

Wright always took great satisfaction in her multifaceted journey. She once stated, "I accepted that it was a man's world, and I always thought of myself as a business person in that world. I'm proud to have been the first woman or the first person in several of my jobs, and proud of the unexpected honors that I was privileged to receive."

Predeceased by her immediate family, she is survived by first-cousin families of Mikwanago, WI, and second cousins in central New York. She is further survived by her faith community at the First Presbyterian Church of Cooperstown, her fellow Rotarians, Cornell Alumni, those in the hospitality industry, and her former students and mentees. 

A Memorial Service to celebrate the life and legacy of Mary R. Wright will be offered at 11 a.m. Friday, December 8, 2017, at the First Presbyterian Church of Cooperstown, with the Rev. Elsie A. Rhodes, pastor, officiating. A reception will follow in the adjoining Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the First Presbyterian Church of Cooperstown, 25 Church Street, Cooperstown, NY 13326; or the Cooperstown Rotary Foundation, PO Box 1271, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Inquiries may be made of executor H. William Michaels of the Fly Creek Cider Mill, Fly Creek, NY 13337 (607-547-9692).

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.

Frederick J. Obermeyer, Sr.

1944 - 2017

COOPERSTOWN - Frederick John Obermeyer, Sr., 73, of Cooperstown, died November 6, 2017, surrounded by his family at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown.

He was born March 19, 1944, in St. Albans, Queens, son of Frederick and Gloria (Cook) Obermeyer. 

After graduating from high school, Fred enlisted in the United States Navy on August 29, 1963. He proudly served his country during the Vietnam War, with his last assignment being aboard the USS Kitty Hawk (CVA-63). He received his Honorable Discharge August 25, 1965, and completed his reserve obligation November 27, 1967. 

On October 28, 1967, Fred married Camilla S. Gaynor in a ceremony at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Lake Ronkonkoma on Long Island.

After moving from Long Island to Cooperstown, he was employed as a custodian for the Oneonta City School District. 

Fred was a lifelong and devoted Mets fan. He loved spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren as well as his extended family of nieces and nephews. Some of his hobbies included fishing, playing cards and watching baseball.

Fred is survived by his wife of 50 years, Camilla S. Obermeyer of Cooperstown; three daughters and son, Melissa Obermeyer of Cooperstown, Kimberly Seigle and husband, David of Richfield Springs, and Robin Tabor and husband, Bud of Cooperstown, and Frederick J. Obermeyer, Jr. of Cooperstown; two grandchildren, Brian David Seigle and Camilla Hope Tabor; brother Frank Obermeyer and wife, Dawn; sister Robin Sippel and husband, Brian. Also his brother-in-law Jerome Gaynor, sister-in-law Margaret Pena-Gaynor and nieces and nephews Brian Sippel, Jr., Jaime Obermeyer, Ralph Pena, Sue Pena, Kathy Trinidad, Diane Longo, and Christopher Pena survive Fred. 

He is predeceased by his parents Frederick and Gloria Obermeyer and nephew Frank Obermeyer, Jr.

Family and friends are welcome to pay their respects at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown, on Friday morning, November 10, 2017, beginning at 10 a.m.

A Funeral Service will follow at 11 a.m. at the Funeral Home, with the Rev. Ronald Fralick officiating. 

Burial with Military Honors will follow in Hartwick Seminary Cemetery. 

Memorial donations may be made to Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box 758516, Topeka, KS,66675 and 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.

Franklin D. Merrifield

1932 - 2017

HARTWICK - Frank Merrifield, 85, died November 1, 2017, at Focus Rehabilitation and Nursing Center at Otsego in Cooperstown. 

He was born September 20, 1932, in Girard, Ohio to Walter and Lida (Goist) Merrifield.

From infancy Frank was raised as a Jehovah's Witness and at the age of 12 was baptized, beginning his lifelong dedication to serving his God, Jehovah. As a youngster he enjoyed raising goats and playing tag.

His first job in high school was at Isley Dairy making Klondike Ice Cream Bars in Youngstown, Ohio, where he was one of their best customers. He graduated from Liberty High School in Girard, Ohio, in 1950. Leaving home at 18 he began eight years of service at the world headquarters of Jehovah's Witnesses in Brooklyn (now in Warwick). There he worked as a linotype operator in the printing factory. Later he transferred to Kingdom Farm in South Lansing to work as a beef feeder. It was there he met two lifelong friends, Dale Bostick and Wayne Rauscher.

In 1958 Frank met the love of his life, Millie Sterusky, from Edmeston. They married September 19, 1959, and had a beautiful union for 58 years. They made a home first in Schuyler Lake and then for 50 years in Hartwick.

For 35 years Frank worked as an insurance agent for Mutual of Omaha where his clients became his good friends. What Frank was most known for was the lead he took in the Schuyler Lake Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses. He loved reading and studying the Bible and teaching people about the hope it holds out for everlasting life here on earth. In the door-to-door ministry, two of his favorite scriptures to share were Revelation 21:3&4 and Psalm 37:29. Frank could often be seen mowing his lawn on his John Deere tractor and took great pride in gardening and yard work. For a time he also enjoyed spending winters in Palm Springs, California, where enjoying the sunshine was a highlight of his life. He loved people and his outgoing personality and good sense of humor made him the life of many a party.

He is survived by many dear friends in both the Schuyler Lake and Oneonta Congregations of Jehovah's Witnesses; his wife, Mille; his two daughters, Ginger (Tim) Lucas of Bridgehampton and Melissa (Duane) Piatt of Soldotna, Alaska; and grandchildren Zoe Lucas, Zack Piatt and Eve Piatt.

A Memorial Service will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, November 11, 2017, at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 7396 State Highway 28, Schuyler Lake. 

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


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.

Laura M. Gohde

1939 - 2017

MILFORD - Laura M. Gohde, 78, of Tansey Hill Road in Milford, passed away early Thursday morning, October 26, 2017, at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown.

She was born at the home of a relative in Pleasant Brook on July 8, 1939, one of twelve children of Donald E. and Mabel E. (Crewell) Hitchcock. 

After Laura was born, she and her family lived in Oneonta and resided on Pony Farm Road. After graduating from Otego High School in 1957, she attended beautician school in Binghamton in the 1960s. After living in Middlefield, she moved to the Town of Maryland in 1998, and then settled in Milford in 2002. 

On August 19, 1999, she married Richard Earl Gohde in a ceremony at the Middlefield home of Justice of the Peace Raymond E. Burr, Sr.

Through the years she was employed in various places, including Astrocom Electronics and Corning in Oneonta. For 10 years, she also cleaned houses, and was last employed by Bassett Healthcare at their print shop in Cooperstown. 

She is survived by two children, Melissa Moore of Fly Creek and Gordon Sparaco of Milford; four grandchildren, Douglas Moore and Derek, Nicole and Justin Sparaco; two great grandchildren; her siblings, twin sister Harriet Smith of Colliersville, Stephen (Grace) Hitchcock of West Oneonta, Iva (John) Hurlburt of Otego, Gordon Hitchcock of Otego, Barbara (Michael) Thorsland of West Oneonta, Rosemary (Richard) Westcott of Davenport, Deborah Hitchcock of Florida, Mark (Deborah) Hitchcock of Norwich, and Regina Shaffer of Florida; and many, many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Richard, who died August 7, 2016; and two brothers, Gary Crewell in 1961 and David Hitchcock in 1992. 

A funeral service will be offered at 11 a.m. Saturday, November 4, 2017, at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown, with the Rev. Ronald Fralick, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Cherry Valley, officiating. The service of committal and burial will follow in Middlefield Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, Laura's family would greatly appreciate that donations in her memory be directed to the Muscular Dystrophy Association, P.O. Box 97075, Washington, DC, 20090-7075.

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.

Richard Lee Hanson

1944 - 2017

SPRINGFIELD - Richard Lee Hanson, a United States Marine Corps Veteran of the Vietnam War, and a retired school teacher and farmer, passed away following a valiant battle with cancer Wednesday night, October 18, 2017, at his home in the Town of Springfield with his family by his side. He was 73.

Born March 30, 1944, at Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown, he was the son of Lester Hans and Ellamae Jessie (Myers) Hanson. A gifted athlete, Dick attended Cooperstown Central School where he excelled in football, skiing, basketball and track. He was later inducted into the CCS Athletics Hall of Fame in 2009. He was an accomplished skier, a passion that stayed with him throughout his life. After graduating with the Class of 1962, Dick attended St. Lawrence University where he was a member of the ski team and the United States Marine Corps Platoon Leaders Course (PLC). During his college years he also attended Officer Candidate School in Quantico, Virginia.

After graduating from college with a bachelor degree in economics, Dick entered into active duty direct commission on June 28th with the United States Marine Corps. From 1967-1968, Captain Hanson proudly served his country overseas in the Vietnam War and earned the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with one bronze service star, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Navy Commendation Medal and a Presidential Unit Citation. His last duty assignment and major command was with the 3rd Recruit Training Battalion at the US Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, South Carolina.

Upon receiving his Honorable Discharge from the Military, Dick returned to his native Cooperstown. On July 22, 1978, he married Mary Jane Hutchins in Wevertown.

For 18 years, Dick taught 7th grade math at Cooperstown Central School, where he also coached football and skiing. 

Following his teaching career, he ran Gahanunda Farms in Pierstown for 16 years. He retired from farming in 2004, and Dick and Jane settled into a new home in the Town of Springfield. He also served as President of the Board of Directors for the Otsego County Patrons Cooperative Fire Relief Association for many years. 

A dedicated Christian, Dick possessed a deep faith in God and was an active member and Lay Leader at the Cooperstown United Methodist Church. An avid outdoorsman, he was also a member of the Wedocandors Hunting Club.

A proud American and former Marine, Dick was an active member of the Clark F. Simmons American Legion Post No. 579, was Senior Vice Commander of the Sgt. Walter P. Eggleston Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 7128, and was Treasurer of the Board of Directors of the Corporation. For many years he was a part of the team that renders Military Honors for deceased Veterans. Whenever he served as Officer of the Day, the Marine in him was always evident: his deep, resonant voice always lent an air of dignity and respect to the military ceremonies for his departed comrades. 

Dick is survived by his wife of 39 years, Jane; a daughter, Ellen K. Hanson, and a son, Michael M. Hanson and husband, Craig Sheil, all of Boston, Massachusetts; one sister, Diane Hanson Vredenburgh of Chenango Forks; and many dearly loved nieces, nephews, cousins and family. 

He was predeceased by his father, Lester, who died July 14, 1982, and his mother, Ellamae, who died June 26, 2007. 

A Service to Celebrate the Life of Richard Lee Hanson will be offered at 11 a.m. Saturday, October 28, 2017, at the Cooperstown United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Thomas LeBeau, pastor officiating. At the conclusion of the service, Military Honors will be rendered by Dick's friends and fellow Veterans from the local Legion and VFW and representatives of the United States Marine Corps Honor Guard. 

Immediately following services at the church, all are welcome to gather at the Cooperstown Veterans Club for a time of refreshment and fellowship. 

Memorial donations may be made to The Endowment Fund of the Cooperstown United Methodist Church, 66 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown, NY 13326, The Cooperstown Veterans Post, Inc., 60 Main Street, Cooperstown, NY 13326, 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.

Eugene R. Smith

1945 - 2017

TODDSVILLE - Eugene R. Smith, 72, of Toddsville, passed away Sunday afternoon, October 15, 2017, at home in his favorite recliner surrounded by his family.

Gene -- or Bobby, as he was affectionately known by family and friends -- was born June 9, 1945, in Cooperstown, a son of Richard Frederick Smith, Sr. and Dorothy Arlene Roseboom Smith.

After attending several area schools, Gene enlisted in the United States Army on December 31, 1962. He served during the Vietnam War as a cook, and received his Honorable Discharge on December 30, 1965.

It was during his time in the military that he married Lois M. Bridger on March 16, 1963, at the First Baptist Church in Cooperstown, with the Rev. Merlin W. Bradley officiating. For the past 42 years they have made their home in Toddsville.

For 28 years Gene was employed at Remington Arms in Ilion where he primarily was a machine operator.

Currently an Honorary Member of the Hartwick Fire Department Co. No. 2 in Hartwick Seminary he served as a firefighter for 28 years.

Throughout his life, Bobby was an avid fan of NASCAR, with Kevin Harvick being his favorite driver. He also loved Dr. Who movies, New Years' Eve poker games and fishing. He could always be seen at his grandson's baseball games, and was never afraid to voice his opinions on officials and team members alike.

A fan of Jerry Lee Lewis and rockabilly, Bobby will be especially remembered for playing his guitar. He took great joy in entertaining people and played whenever he could, especially at family gatherings.

First and foremost Gene loved his family. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 54 years, Lois M. Smith of Toddsville; their three children, Eugene R. Smith, Jr. ("Butch") and wife, Kathryn of Oneonta, Stacey Smith and Mark Kirkby of Toddsville, and Donald F. Smith and wife, Jessica Gilmartin of Cooperstown; seven grandchildren, Bethany and Terri Ingalls, Sean Strader, Sydney and Savannah Kirkby, and Alex and Braydon Hascup and their father, Brian Hascup; and a faithful canine friend, Casper.

He is further survived by three brothers, Richard F. Smith, Jr. and wife, Patricia of Oaksville, Ronald Smith and wife, Debbie of Oppenheim and Charles Smith of Cedarville; one sister, Grace Snyder of Oneonta; seven sisters-in-law, Joan Weiner, Elizabeth O'Brien, Mildred Jennings and Evelyn Gray, all of Cooperstown, Hilda Pomeroy of Fulton, Cora Petrucco of Cortland, and Wanda Laymon of Daytona, Florida; an uncle, Donald Roseboom and wife, Alice of Georgia; and many, many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A Celebration of Life for Gene will be held at the Hartwick Fire Department Co. No. 2 in Hartwick Seminary beginning at 4 p.m. on Saturday, October 21, 2017.

As an alternative to flowers, Gene's family requests that memorial donations be made to Cooperstown Youth Baseball, P.O. Box 282, 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.

Katherine Byrd

1919 - 2017

GEORGIA - Katherine Byrd, 98, formerly of Pierstown, died Friday afternoon, October 6, 2017, in Blairsville, Georgia.

A native of Long Island, she was born June 18, 1919, in Glendale, a daughter of John R. and Catherine A. (Endrich) Loeffler. 

After graduating from Hicksville High School in 1937, she was employed for eight years by the Bank of Hicksville. In 1945 she entered Hartwick College School of Nursing, graduated in 1949, and then worked for a year as an apprentice public health nurse for the City of Oneonta. 

From 1950-1951 Katherine studied at the University of Michigan School of Public Health. In 1951 she received her license as a Public Health Nurse for New York State and became employed by Delaware County and Andes Central School. 

It was during this time that she met Roger Avery Byrd, and they were married October 12, 1951 at Atonement Lutheran Church in Oneonta with the Rev. Dr. Gustav Nordberg officiating. 

For a time Katherine and Roger had a farm in Fall Clove in Delaware County. Around 1962 they moved West and settled in Oregon, but returned to their native New York State in 1967 and purchased a dairy farm in Pierstown in 1968. In the Fall of 1982, they retired and moved back out West, this time to Sparks, Nevada. Following Roger's death August 9, 1995, Katherine lived in Crystal River, Florida, and later moved to Georgia to be near her son, Russell. 

A life-long Confirmed Lutheran, she was a member of Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hartwick Seminary during her years in Otsego County. After moving to Florida, she became a member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Hernando.

Katherine is survived by a son, Russell Byrd and wife, Christine of Blairsville, Georgia; a daughter, Amy Foutch and husband, John, of Laurens; four grandchildren, Steven and Nicholas Byrd, Charles (Jenni) Foutch and Catherine (Phil) Schultz; a great grandson, Whitaker Foutch; a brother, John Loeffler and wife, Celia; and many loving nieces and nephews. 

In addition to her husband of 43 years, Roger, she was predeceased by her sister and brother-in-law, Ruth and Victor Hildebrandt. 

The Rite of the Burial of the Dead will be offered at 11 a.m. Saturday, October 21, 2017, at Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hartwick Seminary, with the Rev. Paul R. Messner, S.T.S., pastor officiating. 

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

As an alternative to flowers, Katherine's family would appreciate memorial donations in her name to Evangelical Lutheran Church, 4636 State Highway 28, Hartwick Seminary, 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.

Eleanor A. Carentz

1925 - 2017

TODDSVILLE - Eleanor A. Carentz, 92, a long-time resident of Toddsville, passed away surrounded by her family Sunday night, October 8, 2017, at Focus Rehabilitation and Nursing Center at Otsego in Cooperstown. 

She was born August 2, 1925, in Oceanside, the daughter of Joseph A. Burr and Agnes Judd Burr.

In her youth, she loved the ocean at Jones Beach on Long Island. It was there she met Peter J. Carentz, lifeguard, and the two were married April 7, 1941, in Springfield. 

After moving to the Cooperstown area, she devoted her time to raising her family and caring for their home. In later years she was employed in the housekeeping department at The Otesaga and The Best Western Inn at The Commons in Hartwick Seminary. 

Eleanor is survived by nine children, Ronaele Haupt (Frederick) of Albany, Peter J. Carentz (Carolyn) of Waterville, Joseph C. Carentz of Toddsville, Janet Schliermann of Worcester, Valerie Carentz of Toddsville, William C. Carentz (Char) of Mt. Vision, Laura Perry (Edward) of Mohawk, Jeffrey S. Carentz (Kathy) of Mayfield, and Rachele Pickett (Scott) of Mohawk; many grandchildren and great grandchildren; sister, Jane Bogeskov (Bernie) of Florida; one brother, Raymond Burr (Joan) of Arizona; and many nieces and nephews. 

She was predeceased by her husband, Peter, who died November 14, 1989, and a daughter, Barbara Carentz who died June 12, 1969. 

At the request of the family, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cooperstown Emergency Squad, P.O. Box 322, Cooperstown, NY 13326. 

Graveside services will be at 12 Noon on Saturday, October 14, 2017, at the family plot in Hartwick Seminary Cemetery. A gathering at the Cooperstown Fire Department will follow the service. All are welcome. 

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.

Richard J. Bachand

1959 - 2017

COOPERSTOWN - Richard James Bachand, 58, a resident of Pathfinder Village in Edmeston, passed away Saturday morning, September 30, 2017, at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown, surrounded by his loving family. 

This kind, sweet and gentle man was born April 2, 1959, in Hartford, Connecticut, a son of Edward A. Bachand, Sr. and Kathleen A. née DiPaola Bachand. Raised in Connecticut, he attended schools there. Then, in the late 1970s, he and his parents moved from Connecticut to Walden, New York, and he graduated from Valley Central High School in Montgomery. 

Following his father's death in 2000, Richard and his mother moved from Walden to Cooperstown to be near his sister, Margaret Savoie, and her family, and in 2012 he became a member of the Pathfinder Village family in Edmeston. 

Throughout his life he was the supreme and ultimate New York Yankees fan, and was a wealth of knowledge regarding team players and their statistics. Richard was truly well-loved, and will be greatly missed by his family and friends. 

Richard is survived by his sister, Margaret Savoie and her husband, Dennis A. Savoie, MD of Cooperstown; three nephews, Matthew Savoie and his wife, Christina, Benjamin Savoie and his wife, Jacqueline and Jonathan Savoie; two great nephews, Nathaniel Cooper Savoie and Christopher John Savoie; three aunts, Joyce Perkins, Anna Pollansky and Iona Britton; one uncle, Anthony DiPaola; and his extended family at Pathfinder Village. 

He was predeceased by his father, Edward A. Bachand, Sr. who died July 7, 2000; his mother, Kathleen A. Bachand, who died July 27, 2014; and his brother, Edward A. Bachand, Jr. who died January 10, 1997.

Family and friends may call and pay their respects from 11 a.m. until12:30 p.m. on Saturday, October 7, 2017at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown. A graveside service of committal and burial will follow at 1 p.m. in Lakewood Cemetery, Cooperstown, where Richard will be laid to rest with his parents and brother. 

Later that afternoon, a Memorial Service will be offered at 3p.m. in the All Faiths Chapel at Pathfinder Village in Edmeston. At the conclusion of the service, a reception will follow in the Kennedy Willis Center at Pathfinder Village to further celebrate Richard's life and love of food. 

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

In Richard's memory, perform an act of kindness. It only takes a moment but its' impact can last a lifetime. 

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.

Beverly B. Lower

1932 - 2017

COOPERSTOWN - Beverly B. Lower, 85, of Cooperstown, passed away late Tuesday afternoon, September 26, 2017, at Focus Rehabilitation and Nursing Center at Otsego.

She was born September 12, 1932, in Cooperstown, a daughter of Claude J. and Edna (Eldred) Bliss, and was raised in Hartwick.  

For many years Bev was employed as a telephone operator with AT&T in Binghamton.

Throughout her life she always enjoyed reading and had a passion for watching soap operas on TV. She also was a fan of baseball, and enjoyed watching games at Doubleday Field from the rear window of her home on Susquehanna Avenue in Cooperstown. 

Survivors include two brothers, Clyde G. Bliss and partner Barbara Calabrese of Otego and Keith D. Bliss and wife Florence ("Flossie") of Burlington Flats; a sister, Virginia Bauer of Florida; and several nieces and nephews.

Bev was predeceased by her son, Timothy Eric Lower who died January 9, 2013 and a sister, Mable Whalen who died January 26, 2012. 

With respect for Bev's wishes, there will be no services.  

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.

Harry Noel McManus

1930 - 2017

FLY CREEK - Mr. Harry Noel McManus, age 87, of Fly Creek, passed away early Sunday morning, September 24, 2017, at Chase Memorial Nursing Home in New Berlin.

He was born September 18, 1930, at the Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown, the youngest of nine children of Harry L. and Mable E. (Grover) McManus. 

After graduating from Cooperstown High School with the Class of 1949, Harry served in the National Guard for seven years. During this time he met Elizabeth Jane Hathaway while she was attending the State University Teachers College at Oneonta. They were united in marriage on April 12, 1952, in a ceremony at the First Presbyterian Church of Cooperstown. 

For 31 years he was employed as an electric lineman for NYSEG, working first out of Margaretville and later Cooperstown. 

Harry was a 45-year member and Past Master of Otsego Lodge No. 138, Free & Accepted Masons in Cooperstown, and was also a long-time member of the Fly Creek United Methodist Church.

An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed fishing and hunting-especially grouse-and was a long-time member of the Cooperstown Sportsmen's Association and the Richfield Sportsmen's Club. Throughout his life, he always found sustenance by spending time outdoors walking in the woods with his dog(s) and appreciating plant and animal life. He was and always will be one with nature. 

Harry is survived by one daughter, Carol E. McManus (Mary Wake) of Milford; one son, Neal S. McManus (Shirleen Barnes) of Sharon Springs; three grandchildren, Jonathan McManus, Michael McManus (Mary Doherty) and Shannon McManus; two great grandchildren, Sawyer and Parker; and many nieces and nephews. 

He was predeceased by his wife of 61 years, Elizabeth McManus, who died April 27, 2013, and all his siblings, Harold P. McManus, James Grover McManus, Donald McManus, Mildred Elizabeth Sponenburgh, Edith Wickham, Isobel A. Wiltse, Doris M. Truax and Arlene Bailey. 

A Funeral Service will be offered at 11 a.m. Monday, October 2, 2017, at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown, with the Rev. Kurt Funke, former pastor of the Gilbertsville Baptist Church, officiating. 

As part of the services Monday morning at the funeral home, a Masonic Memorial Service will be conducted for Worshipful Brother McManus by Brothers of Otsego Lodge No. 138, F. & A.M.

Following the services at the funeral home, interment will follow in the McManus Family Plot in the Fly Creek Valley Cemetery, Cemetery Road, Fly Creek. 

The McManus family respectfully requests that flowers not be sent. As an alternative, please consider a memorial donation to a local animal shelter or the Alzheimer's Association, Leatherstocking Region Office, 140 County Highway 33W, Suite 2, Cooperstown, NY, or Hospice and Palliative Care of Chenango County, 21 Hayes Street, Norwich, NY 13815.

The McManus family wishes to express their thanks and gratitude to everyone at Chase Memorial Nursing Home in New Berlin and Hospice and Palliative Care of Chenango County for the kind, considerate and understanding care provided to Harry.

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.

Helma Ann McNally

1941 - 2017

JEFFERSON - Helma Ann McNally (Linda), passed away following a valiant, indomitable, audacious battle with cancer Wednesday afternoon, September 13, 2017, at home in Jefferson. She was 76.

A former resident of the Bronx, she moved to Pleasantville in Westchester County then later moved to Hopewell Junction in Dutchess County.

After residing in Dutchess County for many years, Helma and her family relocated to Schoharie County a year ago and settled on property that had been in their family for many years.

Born July 3, 1941, at St. Francis Hospital in the Bronx, Helma was a daughter of Frederick (Fritz) and Helma (Renenberg, Honigmann) Moore. 

She was married to John Joseph McNally, a Veteran, who predeceased her November 15, 2011.

Throughout her life, she enjoyed caring for others more than she ever cared about herself. She was the most unselfish person. She had a generous heart and mind, and gave to those in need. At one time she owned and operated a craft business, and was also a spiritual teacher, herbalist and scholar. She was an ordained minister from St. Andrews Church. She was a woman far beyond her years. 

Helma will be greatly missed by her loving and devoted daughter, Tara Ann McNally and all other loved ones. 

We want to thank Catskill Area Hospice for everything!

The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be offered at 10 a.m. Friday, September 22, 2017, at St. Mary's "Our Lady of the Lake" Roman Catholic Church, 31 Elm Street, Cooperstown, with Fr. John P. Rosson, pastor, officiating.

The next day, Saturday, September 23, 2017, the McNally family will receive friends from 3-6 p.m. at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests memorial donations. 

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.

William H. Zoeller

1925 - 2017

COOPERSTOWN - William Henry Zoeller, owner of Lake Front Hotel and Cooperstown Marine, passed away Sunday evening, September 17, 2017, at his home in Lakeland Shores surrounded by his family. He was 92.

Born March 10, 1925, in Ozone Park, Queens, Bill was the only child of Michael G. and Lena P. (Schreiner) Zoeller. 

After graduating from high school, Bill entered into active service with the United States Army Air Corps and proudly served his country during World War II. During his time in the military, Sgt. Zoeller flew 19 missions in B-24 bombers, including one that was shot down. 

On July 8, 1950, Bill married Haidy Engelmann in Brooklyn. 

He was first employed as a photoengraver, and did work for various magazines and publications. 

In 1952, Bill and Haidy moved to Cooperstown, and in June 1955 the Lake Front Motel -- operated by Bill and his father-in-law, Alfred W. Engelmann -- formally opened to the public. Bill and Haidy also owned and operated Cooperstown Marine, building and shipping boats to the New York City area. 

Bill was a faithful member of Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hartwick Seminary. He was also dedicated to the Cooperstown community and served on the village Board of Trustees in the early 1970s. 

A consummate entrepreneur, he truly enjoyed owning and operating his businesses as well as interacting with customers and staff on a daily basis. His presence will be greatly missed. 

Bill is survived by his wife of 67 years, Haidy Zoeller; a daughter, Paula L. Wikoff and husband, Terry; a son, Alfred M. "Fred" Zoeller; five grandchildren, Tulsa Wikoff and husband, Joseph Lepetich, Alexander Zoeller and wife, Suzana, Lonnie Zoeller and wife, Jennifer, Christian Zoeller and wife, Marissa, and Brett Zoeller and wife, Lauren; 6 great grandchildren, Kohlee, Knox, Remini, Sophia, Aaliyah and Wesley. 

The Rite of the Burial of the Dead with Holy Communion will be offered at 11 a.m. Thursday, September 21, 2017, at Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hartwick Seminary, with the Rev. Paul R. Messner, S.T.S, pastor officiating. 

The Service of Commital and Burial with Military Honors will follow in the Zoeller and Engelmann Family Plot in Hartwick Seminary Cemetery. 

As an alternative to flowers, the Zoeller family respectfully requests that memorial donations be directed to Evangelical Lutheran Church, 4636 State Highway 28, Hartwick Seminary, NY 13326 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.