James S. Ainslie


RICHFIELD SPRINGS – James S. Ainslie, 93, of Richfield Springs, passed away while being transported to the hospital. His family regrets they could not be with him due to COVID-19 restrictions; he will be greatly missed. A kind, giving man, loving husband, grandfather and dedicated father, he would do anything to help family, neighbors and friends. 

He was predeceased by his loving wife of over 60 years, Effie (Locke), as well as brothers Harold Ainslie and Leo McLean and parents Edna and William Ainslie. 

He leaves his two sons, David of Clinton and James of Richfield Springs; three grandchildren, Shannon Pernat (Bryan) of Elbridge, Aaron (Joy) of Palm Bay, Florida, and Scott (Debbie) of Minneapolis, Minnesota; and seven great grandchildren, Jackson of Elbridge, Anna, Nora and Seth of Palm Bay, Florida, Hanna of Prague, Czech Republic, and Taylor and Emily of Minneapolis, Minnesota. 

Jim worked the family farm most of his life. He also worked with his brother, Harold, and privately as an electrician. He was also a substitute rural mail carrier for his father, William. He retired from the postal service in Richfield Springs, where he was a rural mail carrier for many years. 

Jim loved animals. He loved many dogs and cats over the years. He raised peacocks, ornamental pheasants, chickens, red deer, horses, and his Emu Elmer. Many friends and neighbors enjoyed visiting his mini game farm. He loved to attend fairs and chicken shows around the state. 

A life-long member of the Grange, he served for decades as Master of the Fly Creek Valley Grange. He also belonged to the NY Bluebird Society, the American Pheasant and Waterfowl Society, the Otsego Electric League and the Experimental Aircraft Association, Chapters 1070 Cooperstown and 294 Utica. He loved airplanes and flying and attended the annual fly-in in Oshkosh, Wisconsin many times with his sons. He was also a member of the Native Sons of Cooperstown and loved to hunt, fish and snowmobile. 

Jim attended the Cooperstown Assembly of God, and his long-time friend, Rev. William Kirk, founding pastor of the church, will officiate at his private funeral service. 

Jim’s family will receive friends at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown, on Wednesday, December 16, 2020, from 5-7 p.m. Due to current COVID-19 restrictions and regulations, all attending must wear a face mask or covering and observe proper physical distancing. Due to current regulations that only permit a certain number of people in the funeral home at one time, please be prepared to wait outside before entering. 

The funeral services and entombment will be private. 

For those who so desire, expressions of sympathy in the form of memorial gifts may be made to the Fly Creek Emergency Squad, PO Box 218, Fly Creek, NY 13337. 

Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Connell, Dow and 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 J. Ubner

1929 - 2020

FLY CREEK – William J. Ubner, a true outdoorsman and animal lover who retired from the Otsego County Highway Department after nearly 30 years of service, passed away in his sleep Monday evening, November 23, 2020, at his home in Fly Creek Valley. He was 90.

Born December 16, 1929, at home on the family farm in Fly Creek Valley, Bill was a son of Stanley and Jenny E. (Bice) Ubner. After attending school in Fly Creek, he attended Cooperstown High School and graduated with the Class of 1949. During his high school years he excelled as a football player and was part of the 1947 football team led by Coach Lester G. “Red” Bursey that went undefeated that year. In honor of this achievement, Bill and his fellow teammates were inducted in 2010 into the Cooperstown Central School Athletics Hall of Fame. After high school Bill continued playing football with the Little Falls Giants, a local semi pro team.

Bill’s first job was testing milk for the Dairy Herd Improvement Cooperative, and received training through the DHIC milk testing program at Cornell University. He was employed by DHIC for 17 years until he decided to leave and join the Otsego County Highway Department. During his 29 years with the highway department he worked in various capacities, most often operating heavy equipment. 

Throughout his life Bill was always an animal lover. Perhaps his most favorite animals were dogs, and for many years he trained and conditioned many dogs, running them in field trial competitions. It was at one of these field trials that he met his future wife, Karen Schnick, who shared his love for dogs. They eventually combined their kennels and their lives, uniting in marriage on July 22, 1972, in Karen’s hometown of Meriden, Connecticut. They continued to compete, both with and against each other, at field trials throughout New England and New York-they truly had a successful kennel operation. 

Most of all, Bill loved the outdoors. He could never get enough of working outside, whether it was mowing fields, painting his barns, or cutting more firewood than he could ever use. His love of the earth and all creatures great and small once led John Stucin, a fellow Fly Creeker, to describe him as “a good steward of the land.” 

Bill is survived by his wife of 48 years, Karen S. Ubner of Fly Creek Valley; a sister, Stella Lincourt of New Hampshire; a sister-in-law, Diane Campbell of Texas; and several nieces and nephews including Mark Ubner (Melissa) of Schuyler Lake, Richard Lincourt (Elaine) of New Hampshire, Linda Eskow of Hamden, Elizabeth Davis (Brian) of Laurens, Christopher Patacsil (Sandra) of San Antonio, Texas, and Travis Campbell (Kaylee) of Austin, Texas. 

He was predeceased by his parents, Stanley and Jenny Ubner; his father and mother-in-law, Arthur and Blanche Schnick; a brother-in-law, Harold Lincourt; and his niece’s husband, Gerald Eskow. 

Friends may call and pay their respects from 2-4 p.m. Monday, November 30, 2020, at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown. Due to current COVID-19 restrictions and regulations, all attending must wear a face mask or covering and observe proper physical distancing. Due to current regulations that only permit a certain number of people in the funeral home at one time, please be prepared to wait outside before entering. 

As a way to remember Bill and honor his life, please consider a memorial gift in his name to the Fly Creek Volunteer Fire Company, PO Box 218, Fly Creek, NY 13337, or the Susquehanna SPCA, 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.

Annemarie L. Danielski

1934 - 2020

COOPERSTOWN – Annemarie L. Danielski, passed away at home on Monday, Nov. 2, 2020. She was 86.

The daughter of Jean and Yvonne Philippot des Miniѐres, she was born on Aug. 11, 1934, in Bavillier, France.

Annemarie graduated from the Université de Nancy, France, in 1953, and later obtained a Master of Arts Degree in French from Middlebury College. She taught French to hundreds of American officers under the auspices of the University of Maryland.

She fell in love with one of the officers, Edward Danielski. She married Edward in 1960 and together they moved to New York City. While living in New York she worked at the law firm of Kenyon and Kenyon as a translator of patent documents.

Edward and Annemarie moved to Cooperstown in 1964, where Edward practiced radiology at Bassett and Fox hospitals. Annemarie stopped working to raise her children.

Annemarie was involved in the Cooperstown Concert Series for many years, and the Glimmerglass Opera at its inception. Annemarie later taught French at Cooperstown Central School and Utica College.

Annemarie loved nature and was a dedicated gardener. She was an avid reader with special interest in literature, visual art and music. She was a gifted amateur painter, violinist and cook. Annemarie was a conservationist before it became fashionable.

Mostly, she loved her husband Edward, with whom she worked on many projects, and her family in the U.S. and France.

Annemarie is survived by her husband of 60 years, Edward, as well as her children, Philippe Danielski and his wife Anne of Vrilly, France; Valerie Danielski Greenberg and her husband Steven of Westport, Conn.; and five grandchildren: Benjamin. Greenberg, Daniel Greenberg, Sam Greenberg, Noah Greenberg and Lewis Danielski.

In lieu of a funeral there will be a grande fete on Bastille Day in her honor. Donations in her memory may be made to Médecins Sans Frontières by calling 1-888-392-0392 and a card will be sent to the family in acknowledgement.


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.

Kenneth M. Dibble, Jr.


1949 - 2020

HARTWICK – Kenneth Myron Dibble, Jr., 71, of Hartwick, passed away unexpectedly of natural causes Monday, October 26, 2020, at his home in Hartwick. 

He was born January 22, 1949, in Cooperstown, one of seven children of Kenneth Myron Dibble, Sr. and Marietta Tabor Dibble. 

After graduating from Cooperstown High School, Ken was employed in the construction/carpentry business for nearly 50 years, including as a Union Carpenter with Carpenters Local 277, all while passing on his carpentry skills to a younger generation. In later years he worked for a time at the former Otsego Manor in Cooperstown.

Ken grew up excelling in numerous sports, including football, basketball and baseball, and he was not shy about letting you know that. He continued this love of sports throughout his life by supporting local high school teams, spending time on the golf course, hunting, and umpiring numerous softball leagues. 

In later years, you could always find Ken working around his home: gardening, mowing the lawn (because no one else was allowed to), working in his pole barn, and tinkering with his beloved Jeep. In most recent years you knew you could find him on the couch, remote in hand, Max by his side, watching one of numerous Alaska-based reality shows. 

For all of those that knew Ken, they knew that family was the most important part of his life. Family reunions on Dibble Mtn, Dibble Open golf tournaments, “The Dibble Mtn Band” that would make their yearly appearance at Hartwick Days, volleyball tournaments, BBQs…all centered around family. He even spent some of his later days building an addition on to the family home to help make family gatherings more special.

Ken is survived by his wife of 42 years, Jean M. Dibble of Hartwick; a son, Scott Dibble of Richfield Springs; three daughters, Darcy Dibble of Milford, Jennifer Dibble of Hartwick and Danielle Dibble of Oneonta; six grandchildren, Brandon and Jayson Morning, Timothy, Abigail and Tess Clapper and Kenneth Dibble; and two great grandchildren. He is further survived by five brothers, Robert, David Bernard, Gregory, Kevin and Dennis. And one sister, Eloise Gravelding, who loved her brother dearly and checked on him daily. Ken is also survived by his former wife, Kathleen Powers Stiefel, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.  

He was predeceased by his parents. 

In keeping with Ken’s wishes, there will be no services. For now, please remember the times you spent with him, smile, and know that he is at peace. 

One way to remember Ken would be to make a memorial donation to his favorite charity, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN  38105. 

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.

Gebrail Nayef Abou Zeidan

1935 - 2020

COOPERSTOWN – Gebrail Nayef Abou Zeidan, a native of Lebanon currently residing in Cooperstown with his daughter and family, passed into eternal life Saturday evening, October 24, 2020, at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown following a brief illness. He was 85.

Born July 5, 1935, in Ablah, Lebanon, he was a son of Nayef and Rosa Abou Zeidan. For many years he was employed in Lebanon selling, delivering and repairing major appliances.  

On May 6, 1971, he married Saidy Toufic Maalouf in Ablah, Lebanon. They were married 48 years until her passing June 20, 2019.

Gaby is survived by his five children, Nayef Bou Zeidan of Montreal, Canada, Roger Bou Zeidan of Lebanon, Dory and Chadi Bou Zeidan of Montreal, Canada, and Pascale Gebrail Raymond, MD and husband, John. F. Raymond, MD of Cooperstown; 8 grandchildren; one brother, Joseph Abou Zeidan of Lebanon; and many nieces and nephews. 

In addition to his beloved wife, he was preceded in death by three sisters, Josephine Abou Zeidan, Salimi Abou Zeidan and Sister Monique Abou Zeidan (a nun killed during the Israeli-Lebanese conflict), and a brother, Antoine Abou Zeidan.   

A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 11 a.m. on Thursday, October 29, 2020, at St. Mary’s “Our Lady of the Lake” Roman Catholic Church in Cooperstown, with Reverend Boutros Al Hachem, Priest of Saint Louis Gonzaga Maronite Catholic Church in Utica, and Reverend Antoine Rizk, BSO, Pastor of Church of the Virgin Mary Melkite Catholic Church in Brooklyn presiding. The Service of Committal and Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Index. Due to the current pandemic, it is respectfully requested that all attending please wear a face covering or mask and to observe proper social distancing. With respect for current restrictions for public gatherings, it is important that those who wish to attend the service please contact the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home no later than Wednesday, October 28th either by telephone (607-547-8231) or email (peterdeysenroth@hotmail.com). 

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

“That His Memory May Be Eternal”. 

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.

Beatrice M. Griffith

1928 - 2020

HARTWICK – Beatrice M. Griffith, a life-long resident of Hartwick, passed away Friday morning, October 9, 2020, at Cooperstown Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing. She was 92.

Born in Hartwick on July 5, 1928, Bea was a daughter of Fred I. Gill, Sr. and Myrtle S. Pickens Gill. 

She attended school in Hartwick and graduated from Hartwick High School, where she was elected Queen of the Senior Class.  Bea truly enjoyed living in and volunteering for many events in the Hartwick community, including helping with cookouts at the Vets Club. She also worked for many years caring for elderly individuals in their homes in the Hartwick area, as well as babysitting for area children. 

She married Stanley Dewitt Griffith on July 5, 1948, in Hartwick, and enjoyed 40 years of marriage until his passing on June 17, 1989.

Bea is survived by her two sons, William S. Griffith of Oneonta, and Wayne J. Griffith and wife, Randi of Hartwick; seven grandchildren; four great grandchildren; a brother, Fred I. Gill, Jr. and wife, Eileen, of North Carolina; a sister, Barbara Bard of Oneonta; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, Bea was predeceased by a daughter, Nancy A. Suhocki who died March 19, 2018, and a grandson, Wayne Griffith, who died in 1975. 

A graveside service will be offered at 11 a.m. Thursday, October 15, 2020, in the Hartwick Cemetery, with the Rev. Joseph Perdue, pastor of the First Baptist Church of Cooperstown officiating. Due to the current pandemic, it is respectfully requested that all attending please wear a face covering or mask and to observe proper physical distancing. 

Memorial donations may be made to the Hartwick Fire Department Co. No. 1, PO Box 86, Hartwick, NY  13348.

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


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

Delores M. (Dee) Burnett

1928 - 2020

COOPERSTOWN - Delores (Dee) Bachanas Burnett, a native of Cooperstown, died Sunday night, October 4, 2020, at Mountainside Residential Care Center in Margaretville.  She was 92.

Born May 14, 1928, at The Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown, Dee was one of five children of Edmund J. and Harriet (Cross) Bachanas.  

Dee grew up in Fly Creek, attending the three-room Fly Creek School from Kindergarten through the eighth grade. She then attended Cooperstown High School, graduating with the Class of 1946. After graduation she worked as a bookkeeper for Bruce Hall and Son until her marriage to William J. Burnett of Cooperstown on October 9, 1948. This was a union that lasted 62 years with three children, Patricia, Robert, and William. 

Soon after they were married, Dee and Bill moved to Syracuse where they worked for the next six years for the General Electric Company in Syracuse and later Auburn. Dee then became a “stay-at home” mom for their three children. While living in Auburn she was a member of the Auburn Jaycettes. In 1964 they moved to the Rochester area. 

In 1970 Dee and Bill moved back to their native Cooperstown where she joined her husband in owning and operating the Western Auto Store. They sold the store in 1979. In 1978 Dee began working for the Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital, becoming Manager of the newly chartered MIBH Federal Credit Union. She retired from the Credit Union in 1993, and in 1995 she joined the Team of the Fly Creek Cider Mill. 

During her years in Cooperstown she was a member of the Native Daughters of Cooperstown and was a member and past president of the Cooperstown Criterion Club. She especially liked the times they spent at Bill’s family's camp, Willowdale Lodge, located on the East side of Otsego Lake.  

Dee is survived by one daughter, Patty Beck and husband, Kevin Callagy of Stamford; and two sons, Bob Burnett and wife, Kathi of Tyler, Texas, and Bill Burnett and wife, Linda, of Cicero.

Her grandchildren include Meaghan Bartell and husband, Josh, Rosie Hanselman and husband, Jeremy, and Laura Beck, Benjamin Burnett Leslie and wife, Rohini and Matthew Burnett Leslie and wife, Kyle, Amanda Aguilar and husband, Eddy, Ashleigh Burnett and Christopher Burnett; step grandchildren Owen and Mason Bartell, Neil Jones and wife, Robyn, and Kevin, Christopher, Sean and Michael Callagy; and great grandchildren Manse Jones, Grant Jones, Carter Bartell, Nash Bartell and Seamus Burnett Leslie, Molly Burnett Leslie and Kiran Leslie. 

Dee is also survived by her two sisters, Maggie Thering of Cooperstown and Patsy Burgess of Mt. Dora, FL, and a brother, William J. Bachanas and wife, Joyce of Mt. Dora, FL, as well as several nieces and nephews and cousins. 

In addition to her parents, Dee was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, Bill, who died May 27, 2011; a brother, Norman Edmund Bachanas, who died July 7, 2006; and a son-in-law, Joseph P. Beck, who died July 31, 2005.  

As per Dee’s request there will be no calling hours.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 2 p.m. Friday, October 16, 2020, at St. Mary's "Our Lady of the Lake" Roman Catholic Church in Cooperstown, with Very Rev. Michael G. Cambi, pastor, presiding.  The Service of Committal and Burial will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery in Index.  Due to the current pandemic, it is respectfully requested that all attending please wear a face covering or mask and to observe proper social distancing. With respect for current restrictions for public gatherings, it is important that those who wish to attend the service please contact the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home no later than Thursday, October 15th either by telephone (607-547-8231) or email (peterdeysenroth@hotmail.com). 

As an alternative to flowers, it was Dee's request that those who so desire direct memorial gifts to the Joseph P. Beck Memorial Scholarship Fund at Stamford Central School, Stamford, NY  12167. 

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.

Andrew P. Sugarick

1936 - 2020

COOPERSTOWN –Andrew Patrick “Sonny” Sugarick, Captain, United States Army (Retired) of Erwin, North Carolina, passed away unexpectedly late Wednesday night, September 30, 2020, at The Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts. He was 84.

Born March 17, 1936, in Centerville, Pennsylvania, he was the son of Andrew S. and Ann Marie née Gorence Sugarick. He was a graduate of the Andrew S. Draper Central School in Schenevus. 

Andrew met the love of his life, Marge, in October of 1962. After a brief courtship of only seven weeks, they married December 15, 1962, and together they raised four daughters. 

Captain Sugarick began his career in the military on April 16, 1956, when he joined the United States Air Force. He transferred to the United States Army on December 29, 1961. After receiving the rank of Specialist Fourth Class, he was promoted to Sergeant and joined the Special Forces. In 1963, he was sent to Vietnam, and during that time he went to OCS at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, and upon completing OCS was promoted to 2nd Lieutenant. On April 28, 1965, Sergeant (then Specialist Fourth Class) Sugarick was presented the Silver Star for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations in the Republic of Vietnam on April 20, 1964. It was noted that he demonstrated perseverance, bravery, and professional competence while serving as a Replacement Advisor to a Vietnamese Strike Force Patrol that had been harassed by the Viet Cong for nineteen consecutive days as it penetrated deep into insurgent-controlled territory. He demonstrated complete disregard for his own safety and courageously defended the landing zone he had participated in constructing. 

Following his retirement from the military, Andrew moved his family to North Carolina, and owned and operated Cedar Creek Heating and Air in Fayetteville. 
Andrew is survived by his wife of 58 years, Nancy Margaret Sugarick of Erwin, North Carolina; three daughters, Susan Bricker and husband, Scott of Yadkinville, NC, Melinda Sugarick of Erwin, NC, and Karen Brown and husband, Philip of Maine; six grandchildren, Sarah Ruth and Emma Grace Bricker, Andrew Brown and wife, Alicia and Ashton and Aathan Brown, and Nancy Margaret Sugarick III; seven great grandchildren Ryder, Maple, Forest, Chaya, Nancy (Maggie), Justin (Junior) and Lily; three sisters, Delores Willsey of Cooperstown, Caroline Carnicelli and husband, Paul of Anchorage, Alaska, and Patricia S. Ryan of Cooperstown and many nieces, nephews and cousins. 

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a daughter, Nancy Margaret Sugarick, Jr., who died December 22, 1989.

A funeral service for Captain Sugarick will be offered at 11 a.m. Wednesday, October 7, 2020, at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown, with the Rev. Joseph Perdue, pastor of the First Baptist Church of Cooperstown, officiating. At the conclusion of the funeral service, Military Honors will be accorded by members of the Cooperstown Veterans Club. It is respectfully requested that all attending please wear a face covering and to observe proper social distancing. With respect for current restrictions for public gatherings, it is important that those who wish to attend the service please contact the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home no later than Tuesday evening, October 6th either by telephone (607-547-8231) or email (peterdeysenroth@hotmail.com) to make a reservation. 

Mr. Sugarick will be laid to rest with his daughter in Erwin Memorial Park, Erwin, North Carolina. 

Andy loved all animals, most especially dogs, so in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his memory to your local animal shelter.

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.

Warrene “Lennie” Macarthur

1940 - 2020

COOPERSTOWN – Warrene S. “Lennie” Macarthur, 79, of Venice, FL and Cooperstown, NY, died following a valiant year-long battle with cancer on Tuesday morning, September 22, 2020, at her home on Stockingbrook Road with family by her side. 

She was born November 21, 1940, in Amarillo, Texas, the eldest child and only daughter of Warren Perry and Vera Pearl née Gutshall Shreve. 

Lennie graduated from high school in Pittsburgh, PA, and then matriculated at Pennsylvania State University, in State College, PA.

On December 24, 1959, she married William Ward Nichols, Jr. in Pittsburgh, PA. A Captain in the US Army, her husband was deployed to Vietnam in 1965, where he was killed in action on October 4, 1965. 

A few years later, while playing Bridge, Lennie met Lindsay Macarthur, Jr., and on February 22, 1969, they were united in marriage in the Chapel at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Ridgewood, NJ, where Lennie had been a Deaconess. They settled in Ho-Ho-Kus, where Lennie was a devoted homemaker and dedicated volunteer. Lennie served the community as President of the Junior Women’s Club of Ridgewood, President of the Family Counseling Service Auxiliary of Ridgewood and Vicinity and President of the Social Service Association of Ridgewood and Vicinity. Perhaps her most fulfilling accomplishment in this field was serving as co-director of The Depot, a women’s exchange and consignment shop whose profits support Family Counseling Service. Through the leadership and hard work of Lennie, and so many other volunteers, The Depot grew to become, and remains, the largest such organization in the country. Following Lindsay’s and Lennie’s retirement in 1992, they divided their time between homes in Venice, FL and Cooperstown, NY.

In addition to Bridge, embroidery and gardening, Lennie was an avid tennis player and golfer. She was a member of the Cooperstown Country Club and the Mission Valley Golf and Country Club in Nokomis, FL. She was also a faithful member of the Venice Presbyterian Church in Venice, FL. Later in life Lennie resumed playing the cello, which gave her great joy. 

Lennie is survived by her four children, Anne M. Booth and husband, Thomas of Winston-Salem, NC, Jennifer M. Davis and husband, Louis D. "Tripp" Davis III of Abington, PA, David P. Nichols and wife, Louise Reid Boyce Nichols of Wilmington, DE, and Peter L. Macarthur of Dobbs Ferry and Cooperstown; four grandchildren, Ensign Owen P. Davis, USN, Gwenyth A. Davis, Eliza Campbell Nichols and William Hewitt Ward Nichols; a brother, Warren Perry Shreve and wife, Diane of Blue Springs, MO; and several nieces and nephews. 

In addition to her parents who died when she was in her twenties and her first husband, Lennie was preceded in death by her husband of 48 years, Lindsay Macarthur, Jr. who died July 6, 2017. 

In consideration of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, a gathering in memory of Lennie will be held in Cooperstown next summer. For now, please remember the times you spent with Lennie and know that she is at peace. 

One way to remember and honor her life would be to make a memorial donation to The Venice Symphony (www.thevenicesymphony.org) or The Cooperstown Summer Music Festival (www.cooperstownmusicfest.org). 

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.

Yvonne M. Chandler-Colby

1966 - 2020

FLY CREEK – Yvonne Megan Chandler-Colby, 54, of Fly Creek died September 25, 2020, at Berkshire Medical Center in Pittsfield, Massachusetts after an extended struggle against cancer and heart failure, while being transported via ambulance to Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston. 

Born Yvonne Megan Chandler on February 2, 1966, at the Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown, she was a daughter of George Henry and Nancy (Hunt) Chandler and was baptized Episcopal at Christ Church in Cooperstown. Raised in Fly Creek, she graduated from Cooperstown Central School with the Class of 1984. She married Dean Robert Colby August 31, 1991, in Fly Creek. 

Yvonne studied psychology and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from the State University of New York in Oneonta with the class of 1989. After graduation, she moved to Queens with her husband, where she continued to study Criminal Psychology at John Jay College of Criminal Justice while simultaneously serving as a probation officer for four years at Queens County Courts. 

Months after the birth of her first child, Richard Aaron Colby, 1994, she and her husband moved to Fly Creek. Yvonne took on the responsibility of educating both her children, Richard and Julianne Elizabeth Colby, 1996, teaching them both for the entirety of their 1st through 12th grade educations. The profound education she provided for her children is evidenced by them both graduating Summa Cum Laude from Hartwick College, 2014 and 2016 respectively. 

Yvonne volunteered her time for the community simultaneously serving as a Class A Firefighter, Emergency Medical Technician, Treasurer, and Secretary of the Fly Creek Fire Department/District from 1994-2005. Additionally, Yvonne could boast of skills in many passions including, writing long works of fiction; researching and recording family genealogy extending back farther than the landing of the Mayflower and the colonization of America; and handcrafting fine craft works of crochet, knitting, and needle point, of these she was charitable with and gifted often. 

Yvonne possessed a gentle and caring spirit and hated thoughts of any living creature suffering. She championed this cause in many personal ways, including, eating only humanely raised meat; refusing to kill “pests”, such as rodents and bugs, always taking the extra effort to relocate them safely; and keeping a large, and growing, collection of replanted succulents, because as each piece broke off, in her own words, “I just feel bad letting them die.” 

She accomplished all of this despite battles, which she won, against Hodgkin's Lymphoma, 1984, and metastatic breast cancer, 2007. She further showed great endurance living with chronic heart failure, undergoing open heart surgery twice, 2014 and 2020, and living with a host of other complications from her cancer treatments. 

Yvonne is survived by her husband of 29 years, Dean Colby, and their children, Richard Colby and Julianne Colby, all of Fly Creek; her parents, George and Nancy Chandler of Fly Creek; a brother, Christopher Chandler and fiancé, Connie of West Edmeston; a sister, Melissa Gwilt and husband, Paul of Oneida and their children, Katlynn, Kristen, Sean, and Matthew. 

She was preceded in death by her sister, Carrie Anne Chandler, who died September 30, 1993. 

Calling hours will be offered on Thursday, October 1, 2020, from 12 Noon until 1:30 p.m. at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown. It is respectfully requested that all attending please wear a face covering, observe proper social distancing, and be prepared to wait to enter the funeral home.

A private graveside service will follow at the Chandler Family Plot in the Fly Creek Valley Cemetery with the Rev’d Dane E. Boston, Rector of Christ Church, Cooperstown officiating. 

In lieu of flowers, Yvonne’s family asks that you consider a donation to defray the cost of funeral expenses at GoFundMe.com, “In Loving Memory of Yvonne Chandler-Colby” (https://gf.me/u/y2rnt2). 

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.

Margaret P. Scrimgeour

1927 - 2020

COOPERSTOWN – Margaret P. “Peggy” Scrimgeour, who was employed for many years as a librarian in Queens and later moved to Cooperstown, passed away rather unexpectedly Monday afternoon, September 21, 2020, at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown. She was 93.

Born February 17, 1927, in Manhattan, Peggy was a daughter of George E.B. Scrimgeour and Williamina C. née Penman Scrimgeour, both of whom had immigrated to the United States from Scotland. 

She attended and graduated from several institutions of higher learning, including the University of Edinburgh in Scotland and The City College of New York, and received her Master’s degree in Library Science. For 25 years she served as a librarian in the Queens Borough Public Library throughout Queens. In 1998 she moved to Cooperstown and settled into her home on Walnut Street.

Peggy loved learning new things and enjoyed using her laptop to keep in touch with old friends and to Google the amazing “encyclopedia” of information on the internet. 

But her life-long passion was for animals. She cared for animals of all kinds, but especially loved dogs: her favorite, German Shepherd Dogs! While in Queens she was an active member of the Suffolk Obedience Training Club. After moving to Cooperstown, she joined the Del-Otse-Nango Kennel Club and continued competing in obedience and stewarding. 

Peggy is survived by her cousin, Barbara W. Duffy of Cooperstown; her two German Shepherds, Daisy and Skye; cousins in Scotland and Australia; and many friends in the Cooperstown area and beyond.

She was predeceased by her mother, Mina Scrimgeour, who died when Peggy was quite young and was buried in Scotland; her father, Ernie Scrimgeour, who died May 16, 1990; and her sister, Nancy Scrimgeour who died February 17, 1992. 

The life of Peggy Scrimgeour will be celebrated from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, September 26, 2020, in her cousin’s backyard at 41 Delaware Street, Cooperstown. It is respectfully asked that all attending please wear a face mask and to observe proper social distancing. 

Peggy will be laid to rest with her father and sister in Kensico Cemetery in Valhalla. 

As a way to remember and honor Peggy’s life, please consider a memorial donation to German Shepherd Rescue of NY, PO Box 242, Delmar, NY 12054 .

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.

Pierre B. Weidemann


1962 - 2020

COOPERSTOWN – Pierre Bernard Weidemann, a beloved son, brother, and uncle, passed away unexpectedly of natural causes Sunday, September 6, 2020, at his home in Schuyler Lake. He was 57. 

Born December 11, 1962, in Montreal, Canada, Pierre was the son of Marie Andrée Trempe Weidemann and the late Manfred Bernard Weidemann, a photographer and long-time owner of Pioneer Photo in Cooperstown. Pierre grew up in Newfoundland, N.J. and graduated from West Milford High School in 1980.

Following in his father’s footsteps, Pierre worked most of his life as a freelance photographer and film producer.  He excelled in digital media. 

For many years, Pierre lived in southern California, where he worked as an assistant producer on an extensive list of Hollywood films, including “The Mask of Zorro” and “Collateral Damage”. After moving to the Cooperstown area for a brief time after his father’s passing, Pierre moved to New Jersey and lived in various places throughout Hudson County, including Weehawken and Union City. He resided many years in Hoboken. In 2010, he was the producer of Algonquin Theater Productions’ musical comedy “National Pastime”, performed in the Grandstand Theater at the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. 
A project dear to Pierre during his time in Hoboken was “State of Grace,” a collection of oil paintings depicting the lives of burn victims by New York-area artist Doug Auld. Pierre worked with Auld to help illustrate those who have suffered significant burn injuries and help redefine society’s standards of beauty. 

Pierre had more recently moved back to the Cooperstown area and for a time worked at the Cooperstown Beverage Exchange. He was currently working in digital media for the Bassett Healthcare Network in Cooperstown. 

Pierre was a hardworking and creative man. He was self-taught, learning his trade by experience. He had a warm presence in any room and couldn’t be ignored. He was interested in people around him, unafraid to strike up conversation on a litany of topics if only to fuel his curiosity. A family prankster jokes were his currency – his humor will be missed by his family, more than ever in the weeks following his passing. He enjoyed working on both professional and domestic projects, recently building beautiful garden beds for his mother. He enjoyed rock climbing, music (especially The Beatles) and had watched just about every movie ever made – his favorite likely the original “Blade Runner.” 

Pierre is survived by his mother, Andrée Weidemann of Schuyler Lake; his sister, Carina Franck and her husband, Patrick, of Cooperstown; a nephew, Thomas Franck of New York City; and a niece, Katie Franck of Cooperstown. He is further survived by one cousin, Andrew Ruch of Munich, Germany, and the deWaal family – friends as close as family, who knew him since childhood. The Weidemann family is grateful to one of Pierre’s best friends, Mark Elliott, who contributed to his obituary. 

He was preceded in death by his father, Manfred, who died December 23, 2004, due to injuries sustained in an automobile accident. 

In consideration of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, a gathering in memory of Pierre will be held at a later time. For now, please remember the times you spent with Pierre, smile, and know that he is at peace. 

One way to remember and honor Pierre would be to make someone laugh today.

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.

​Roland M. Roth


1931 - 2020

Roland M. Roth was born February 17, 1931, and passed away on August 21, 2020,
and is under the care of Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home.


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.

​Rafael Manuel Franco

April 18, 1939 - August 5, 2020

​Rafael Manuel Franco was born on April 18, 1939, and passed away August 5, 2020,
and was under the care of Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home.


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 Jones

1942 - 2020

COOPERSTOWN – David Jones, husband of Lynn Richards Jones, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2020, at his home in the Village of Cooperstown. A retired English and American Studies teacher, he taught at the Millbrook School in Millbrook, and the Saint Andrew’s School in Boca Raton, FL. He was 78.

Born on March 10, 1942, in Albany, David was one of three children of Louis Clark Jones, Ph.D. and the former Hazel “Billie” Williams. The family moved to Cooperstown in 1947, not long after his father was named Director of the New York State Historical Association.

David attended Cooperstown Central School and later transferred to The Putney School in Vermont. After graduating from Putney, David studied theater at Boston University before transferring to Hiram College, where he received a B.A. in English in 1966. 

During his years in Cooperstown, he met Lynn Richards, daughter of long-time residents William Richards and the former Wanda Olmstead. On August 27, 1966, David and Lynn were married at The Cornwallville Church at The Farmers’ Museum. Following the ceremony, they rode by oxcart to Bump Tavern for the reception. 

From September 1966 until February 1968, David attended the University of Pennsylvania, where he earned a Master’s Degree in English. In March 1968 he enlisted in the United States Air Force, attained the rank of Staff Sergeant and served as a Chaplain’s Services Specialist. In 1971, David and his family moved to the Millbrook School where he taught English, coached baseball and skiing, and served in various administrative capacities. He also continued course work toward his Ph.D. in English at Drew University and, later, at the University of Miami. 

In 1976, David accepted a position to teach English at Saint Andrew’s School. He served as the department chair, introduced American Studies to the curriculum, developed an English as a Second Language summer program for international students, and coached baseball and women’s cross country. He is remembered as a kind, compassionate, and inspiring teacher, coach, and dorm parent. He retired as a Master Teacher. 

David loved teaching. Over the span of more than three decades, he became well-respected and admired by students, faculty and parents alike. He was known for his wit and for gently guiding his students’ understanding of literature and writing. 

In addition to his teaching career, David worked in educational software development for IBM, training teachers and assessing communications programs. He revised the IBM Style Guide for Educational Software and wrote textbooks for the Lawrenceville Press. He also wrote an introduction to Susan Fenimore Cooper’s Rural Hours for Syracuse University Press.

In 2001, David, an avid bicyclist, was in training for a 575-mile AIDS benefit ride in Montana when he was struck from behind by a van and thrown from his bike. He lay unconscious in a Delray Beach hospital for nearly two weeks. He gradually improved, but sadly realized he could no longer teach.  It was noted that a brain injury seemed a particularly cruel offense to a man known for the depth and subtlety of his mind. In 2004, he and Lynn returned to Cooperstown and made their home on Elm Street. 

David is survived by his wife of 53 years, Lynn, of Cooperstown; their two sons and daughters-in-law, Matthew William Richards Jones, MD and Cora Vegafria Jones of Cooperstown, and Jeremy Louis Clark Jones and Katherine Janiec Jones, Ph.D. of Boiling Springs, SC; four grandchildren, Molly Foard Jones, Phoebe Lynn Emerson Jones, Isabella Grace Richards Jones, and William David Maxwell Jones; a sister, Carol Loomis of Winthrop, MA; a sister-in-law, Elisabeth Richards Jerson and husband, Robert Jerson of Springfield Center; and several nieces and nephews. 

In addition to his parents and stepmother, Agnes Halsey Jones, David was predeceased by a brother, Peter Jones and a brother-in-law, Raymond Loomis.

David will eventually be laid to rest in the Pickens Family plot in Lakewood Cemetery, Cooperstown.

As a way to remember David, please consider a memorial gift to the Susquehanna SPCA, 4841 State Highway 28, Cooperstown, NY  13326. https://sqspca.org/support/make-a-donation/.

Arrangements are under the care of 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 Davis, US Nurse Cadet

1924 - 2020

FLY CREEK – In the early morning hours of Saturday, April 4, 2020, R. Helen Davis, a long-time resident of Fly Creek, retired Registered Nurse and cherished mother, passed peacefully with family by her side. She was 95 and the last of the Finnish area immigrants residing in Otsego County. 

Born July 27, 1924, in a farmhouse off Harrison Hill Road in Mount Vision, she lived her earliest years there, later moving with her family to a State Highway 205 farmhouse closer to Mount Vision village. Her parents, Jaakko and Anna (Veikkolainen) Puputti, immigrated by ships (the White Star Line “Cedric” and the Scandinavian American Line “United States”) from Jaakima, Finland in 1905 and 1913, respectively, entering America through Ellis Island. Their names were later immortalized there on the Immigrant Wall of Honor.

Helen was tasked with learning the English language upon entering Laurens Central School, graduating with the Class of 1943. In her teens she played the violin and particularly enjoyed playing a rendition of “Turkey in the Straw” but only after much parental coaxing at small Finnish gatherings. After high school she worked at the Oneonta Manufacturing Company producing mica for army equipment to be used in World War II. 

Helen’s brother, Eino Puputti (who changed his name to the more Americanized name of Edward Johnson) encouraged her to join the US Nurse Corps Cadets at the Binghamton City School of Nursing. While in nurse’s training the cadets worked in critically short staffed US hospitals during the war years and cared for the returning wounded soldiers. Helen served stateside as the war had ended before earning her RN degree in 1947. Helen started her profession at the Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown in the obstetrics department, a career that included an unexpected surprise rush delivery in the elevator. She later did private duty in Otsego County as well as Florida. She took several refresher courses at AO Fox Memorial Hospital to obtain her Florida RN license to work occasionally there as she enjoyed wintering in Florida near her daughter, Barbara. 

She married her first husband, Gerald F. Gage, a Tech 4 World War II veteran awarded a Purple Heart in the Battle of the Bulge. Together they raised their two children, Robert and Barbara. He predeceased her in 1988. 

She later married Donald A. Davis in the Fly Creek United Methodist Church, where they were devoted members for many years. They made their home on Cemetery Road in Fly Creek, where Helen continued to reside. 

Helen enjoyed meticulously tending her flower and vegetable gardens, spending time with her cats, travelling the US with Don in their fifth wheeler and fly fishing- Don was an accomplished fly tyer. After Don’s passing Helen continued travelling, often internationally to her beloved Finland four times and to countless destinations with Barbara and Ruth and many dear friends. 

In her later years, Helen enjoyed relaxing on her front porch “to watch the world go by” and to visit with the dedicated Fly Creek Volunteer Fire Company members across the street. She spoke fondly of all the members, Don having been a long-time member and having served at one time as Fire Chief. They were always willing to lend her a helping hand (or two) for many years. Helen was often seen walking in Fly Creek, taking time to stop to talk with friends and neighbors. Some of her hobbies included reading The Daily Star, tending her African Violets, watching the birds at the feeder as well as the numerous Hummingbirds that still flock to her bountiful red Bee Balm garden. 

Helen was as member of the Fly Creek Area Historical Society, the Milford and Hartwick Senior Citizen’s Clubs, the Christian Hill Women’s Club, the Cooperstown Women’s Club, the Native Daughters of Cooperstown and the Lake and Valley Garden Club, which held a special place in Helen’s heart as it was there that she met many other garden passionate people, several of whom remained dear friends for many years. 

Helen is survived by her children, Robert Gage and his partner, Sue Garvin of Fly Creek, and Barbara Stephenson of Westford, and a grandson, Gerald Gage and his fiancé Brittany Duncan of Clayville. Surviving also are two nieces Kate Lindsey and family of New Jersey, Los Angeles and Brooklyn and Ruth Johnson Hansen and her children, Tessa and Manja and her wife, Kris, all residing in Denmark. Helen leaves behind her “other daughter” and life time dear friend of Barbara’s, Susie Parshall and her husband, John Urbin of Texas. Surviving also are two step children, Duane Davis and wife, Sharon of Ohio and Florida and his sister, Joan Blankenship of South Carolina. 

She was predeceased by her husband, Donald A. Davis in 1998, and her beloved brother, Eino (Edward) Johnson, whose death at the age of 49 in 1967 was a profound loss for her. 

Helen’s strength, wisdom and kindness will continue to inspire all who knew and loved her. 

As a way to remember Helen, we respectfully request that any memorial donations be directed to the Fly Creek Volunteer Fire Company, PO Box 218, Fly Creek, NY 13337.

A graveside service will be at a later date when our Denmark family can attend. 

Arrangements are under the care 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.

Emma Jean Shepard

1929 - 2020

FLY CREEK – It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Emma Jean (Shaw) Shepard of Cooperstown on July 1, 2020, at the age of 91 years.

Emma Jean was born to Harold Judson Shaw and Ethel Catherine (Knapp) Shaw February 5, 1929, at Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown.
 
As a child, Emma Jean first lived with her parents at their home on Beaver Street in Cooperstown. They later moved to the boathouse at Three Mile Point and then to Thurston Hill, where she attended a one-room schoolhouse and then Springfield Central School. In 1941, the family moved to Fly Creek, where Jean attended another one-room schoolhouse and then Cooperstown High School, graduating with the Class of 1948.

On November 19, 1948, she married Smith J. Shepard, Jr. at the Cooperstown Methodist Church. They built their life together residing in Fly Creek where they raised their son. 

She leaves as her legacy one child, David Allen Shepard and daughter-in-law, Susan. She also leaves to cherish her memory four grandchildren, Laura Smith (Jeffrey), Cynthia Shepard, Patrick Shepard (Kim) and Sean Clinton; six great grandchildren, Amanda Burgher (Jason), Shelby McLean, Chelsey Loucks (Joseph Pickard), Jordan Loucks (Andrew Bosc), Eric Loucks (Kaley Manikis) and Cendra Crawford; and six great great grandchildren, Jacob and Dalton Burgher, Lyndon and Kolyn Baldwin, Emma McMichael and Annabelle Bosc.

Although there are no words to describe what an amazing and beautifully unique woman Emma was, her son and grandchildren will always remember her as a loving, caring individual who provided compassion and comfort to all the lives she touched. 

Emma Jean worked at the Cooperstown Central School in the cafeteria for nine years, and in addition faithfully provided care to elderly people within her community for seventeen years. 

In 1947 she joined the membership of the Fly Creek Methodist Church, and since that time has been a very active and devoted member. She enjoyed spending time with family, as well as the staff and friends at Cooperstown Center, expressing her talent and love for art, and sharing her spiritual beliefs (“Grammy loves you and Jesus loves you”). 

Emma Jean is predeceased by her parents, her husband, the mother of her grandchildren, Mary Clinton, her very special cousins Alice Shaw and Beverly Payne, along with several other cousins. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Fly Creek United Methodist Church, PO Box 128, Fly Creek, NY 13337.

​A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, August 8, 2020, at the Fly Creek United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Sharon Rankins-Burd, pastor, officiating. With respect for current regulations for public gatherings, especially in churches, it is important that those who wish to attend the service please contact the funeral home no later than Thursday, August 6th, either by telephone (607-547-8231) or email (peterdeysenroth@hotmail.com) to make a reservation. Those who do attend must wear a mask and adhere to proper social distancing. 

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.

Sharon Ann Congelli

1945 - 2020

FLY CREEK – In the early morning hours of Sunday, May 17, 2020, Sharon Ann Congelli, a longtime resident of Wayland, passed away at her daughter’s home in Fly Creek, surrounded by family, following a valiant seven-year battle with glioblastoma. She was 74.

Born November 20, 1945, in North Hornell, Sharon was the daughter of Duane E. and Carol J. (Bricks) Knapp of Atlanta, NY. After graduating from high school in Wayland she attended the Continental School of Beauty in Rochester. 

While she was employed at several places throughout her life, she was best known as the manager of the Home Video store located in the Wayland Food Mart, for over 25 years. Prior to managing the video store, Sharon worked for the Wayland Central School as part of the high school cafeteria staff, a position she enjoyed and from which lifelong friendships were born as evidenced by monthly lunch gatherings with the “cafeteria ladies” held for decades after.

Sharon was a good listener with a gentle nature and a cheerful outlook on life that was comforting to those around her. Her family, especially her ten grandchildren, loved visiting Sharon at her longtime residence on Loon Lake. There she shared with them her well-known love of loons and enjoyed paddleboat rides around the lake. Sharon loved hosting family and friends at the lake, where she always made everyone feel welcome and at home, blessing her children with a lifetime of memories spent on Loon Lake.

Sharon was a spiritual person whose journey of faith began in the Atlanta Presbyterian Church. She had also been a longtime member of St. Paul’s United Church of Christ in Wayland, Loon Lake Community Chapel in the summers and, during her four-year residence in Fly Creek, was a much-loved participant of Butternuts Monthly Meeting Quaker worship groups in Cooperstown and Oneonta. Sharon had an expansive and inclusive perspective of spirituality and appreciated elements of many faiths and spiritual practices, gathering in sacred circles of women and joining each of her children and grandchildren in their practices.

Sharon was conscientious about fulfilling her civic duty and for many years assisted her fellow community members in Wayland as an election worker at the polls on election days.

She was an avid reader and enjoyed being a regular patron at the small libraries in the communities she lived and frequented. Sharon enjoyed puzzles, games and any activity that brought family and friends together in shared experience. She derived great joy from attending her grandchildren’s sporting, musical and theatrical events as well as attending concerts, films and professional performances. Sharon was a lifelong learner and enjoyed visiting museums and cultural and historical sites. She was curious with a boundless enthusiasm for exploring new places and activities which she maintained throughout her life, traveling and learning with communities of people. She appreciated the natural world and delighted in walking and observing the changes each season brought.

Sharon was devoted to family and friends, having an unlimited capacity for welcoming people into her life. Her strength and resilience allowed her to meet each challenge in life with grace and a consistent outlook of empathy and joy. Her presence was a gift to all. She was beloved by many and held in peace and love to the very last by her devoted family who cherishes her still.

Sharon is survived by her four children, Jonas (Tammy) Congelli of Tully, Sarah (Mark) Wilcox of Fly Creek, Carol (George) Smith of Forest Grove, Oregon, and Michael (Jennifer) Congelli of Spencerport; ten grandchildren, Steffaney and Nathaniel Wilcox, Emily, Allison, Matthew and Anna Congelli, and Izzy, Carly, Sammy and Vinny Congelli; and her four siblings, Lee (Megumi) Knapp of Tennessee, Lois(Jim) Mark of Dansville, Winifred (“Winnie”) Feathers of Geneseo, and Joan (Bill) Brewster of Dansville and their families. 

Sharon was preceded in death by her father, Duane E. Knapp who died November 14, 2008, and her mother, Carol J. Knapp, who died July 12, 2012. 

While there will be no services at this time due to the COVID-19 pandemic and current restrictions on public gatherings, please remember for now the times you spent with Sharon, smile, and know that she is at peace. When it is safe and regulations allow, Sharon’s family will plan on having a public memorial service in Wayland. She will be laid to rest near her parents in St. Joseph’s Old Cemetery in Wayland.

As Sharon’s family is acutely grieving her loss, and as there will be some delay in gathering for a formal memorial service, her children would be very grateful to receive stories and remembrances of her from those she connected with through the course of her life. In celebration of her life, please share your memories of Sharon with messages humorous, poignant, joyous – the full scope of a life well lived. By mail: Family of Sharon Congelli, c/o Sarah Wilcox, PO Box 95, Fly Creek, NY 13337 or by email: lilybluestone4@yahoo.com.

Memorial donations in Sharon’s name may be made to: Wayland Free Library, E.J. Cottrell Memorial Library of Atlanta, Village Library of Cooperstown, Loon Lake Community Chapel, Presbyterian Church of Atlanta, Butternuts Monthly Meeting of Cooperstown or Cancer Connects of East Syracuse.

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.

Joyce S. Jones

1932 - 2020

HARTWICK SEMINARY – Joyce S. Jones, a long-time resident of Hartwick Seminary and a devoted wife, mother and grandmother, passed away with family by her side Tuesday afternoon, May 19, 2020, at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown. She was also an accomplished seamstress and upholsterer, and had a special love for Otsego Lake, often reminding her family, “Aren’t you glad I moved to Cooperstown, there is not a more beautiful place.” She was 87.

Born October 22, 1932, in Ayer, Massachusetts, she was one of four children of David P. and Alice (Moison) Sargent. Raised on the family farm in Groton, Massachusetts, Joyce graduated from Groton High School with the Class of 1950, and then attended the University of Massachusetts Amherst where she earned a bachelor of arts degree in 1954. Later that same year she moved to Cooperstown when she took a job at the Cornell Cooperative Extension. This was quite a step for a young lady in the 1950s to take, and Joyce admitted she was a bit scared moving away from her family and native Massachusetts, but she persevered and did well. 

Joyce was especially glad she moved to Cooperstown when, at a New Year’s Eve party, she met Duane E. Jones. On November 26, 1956, Joyce and Duane were married in Groton, Massachusetts and, after relocating several times, settled into their home in Hartwick Seminary in 1964. In the mid 1960s, Joyce left her job at the extension office to devote her time to raising her children and caring for their home. She always had talent for sewing, and in the 1970s started working on her own as a seamstress as well as doing upholstery work. 

For decades, Joyce faithfully served on the board of directors of the Hartwick Seminary Cemetery Association. She, along with her husband, Duane, looked after the upkeep of the cemetery and was the person to call whenever a burial needed to take place. She was also a representative for Cherry Valley Memorials. 

Joyce was very devoted to the First Presbyterian Church in Cooperstown, where she was a long-time faithful member, served as a Deacon and was in charge of the Columbarium in the Church-yard. Before women could take an active role in church governance, Joyce became a vital part of the church’s Women’s Fellowship, serving as their treasurer and taking part in the various guilds that, at the time, were part of this church group. As an accomplished seamstress, her passion for this ministry of the church led her to be the main stay for many years in deciding on and organizing the various sewing projects the women worked on in their Monday sewing circle. They would sell their creations at the Alternative Market held each year just prior to Christmas. Through the years she also served as chair of the annual Ice Cream Social and the accompanying sale of the women’s handcrafted items, as well as church rummage sales. One of her biggest endeavors was raising awareness of the need to restore the church’s stained glass windows, and was instrumental in raising the needed funds. Her legacy at First Presbyterian will live on for years to come in the stained glass quilted wall hanging she crafted for the church’s 2007 bicentennial celebration. Designed and pieced together by Joyce and her grandchildren, they began choosing fabrics in June of 2006 and worked together during school holidays for several months. It was quilted by Joyce and her ecumenical friends and upon completion in July 2007, her son, Steven mounted it on a wooden frame and it now hangs in the sanctuary above the main entrance doors. The various blocks represent and depict liturgical seasons in the Christian calendar and cycles of life. 
Never one to sit idle, Joyce was also an accomplished bowler, and she and her sister, Jan, won the No Tap tournament four years in a row. 

This remarkable woman, who was such a vital part of her church and community, and whose hearing loss never kept her from persevering and accomplishing so much, will be greatly missed by her loving family. She leaves behind four children and six grandchildren, son Steven Duane Jones and his wife, Eva of Niskayuna and their children, Cora Elizabeth, Kelly Christine and David Duane Jones, and three daughters, Susan E. Bergene and husband, Gregory of Cooperstown and their daughters, Kristin Ellen and Hanna Joy Bergene, Sandra Lee Jones of Middletown, Delaware, and Sharon L. Otto and husband, Paul of Niskayuna and their son, Paul Christopher Otto. She is further survived by her brother, David P. Sargent, Jr. and his wife, Janet of Great Falls, Virginia, and a sister, Jean Norton and her husband, Lee of Valatie, and many nieces and nephews. 

In addition to her father and mother, who predeceased her in 1994 and 1995 respectively, Joyce was also predeceased by her husband of 42 years, Duane E. Jones, who died June 21, 1999, and her sister Janet Ann Kerr, who died December 8, 2018.

She will be laid to rest alongside her husband in Hartwick Seminary Cemetery.

While there will be no services at this time, please remember your times spent with Joyce, smile, and know she is at peace. 

For those who wish to honor Joyce’s life, please consider a memorial donation to Hartwick Seminary Cemetery Association, 1636 Kelly Corners Road, Oneonta, NY 13820, or Habitat for Humanity of Otsego County, 403-B Chestnut Street, 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.

William A. Bonnel

1963 - 2020

COOPERSTOWN – William A. Bonnel, who was a faithful long-time employee of Reiss Moving & Storage in Hartwick Seminary, passed away late Friday afternoon, May 8, 2020, at Robinson Terrace Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Stamford after a valiant battle with cancer. He was 56.

A native of New Jersey, Bill was born December 19, 1963, the only child of William C. and Nancy Jean (Jackson) Bonnel. The Bonnels moved to the Cooperstown area when Bill was young, and he attended Cooperstown Central School, graduating with the Class of 1983. He later received a degree in automotive technology. 

For many years, Bill was employed by Reiss Moving and Storage in Hartwick Seminary as the maintenance man in their warehouse. A “jack of all trades”, he could always be counted on to be there, where he especially enjoyed greeting people getting their cars washed. A quiet man blessed with a great memory, he will be sorely missed by Howard, Doris and Frances, and all those whose lives he touched. 

Bill is survived by his son, John Lloyd Parshall of Forestport, and a granddaughter, Alexis Anderson, as well as his good friends Howard and Doris Reiss and Frances Breslin. 

He was predeceased by his father, William C. Bonnel, who died October 3, 1976, and his mother, Nancy Jean Bonnel, who died March 26, 2006. 

While there will be no services, please remember the times you spent with Bill, smile, and know that he is now at peace. 

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.

Jocelyn A. Rauscher

1942 - 2020

COOPERSTOWN – In the early morning hours of Thursday, April 16, 2020, Jocelyn A. Rauscher, beloved wife, mother and grandmother passed away unexpectedly due to cardiac-related issues at her home with her husband by her side. She was 78.

A native of Scotland, she was born January 26, 1942, in Edinburgh, a daughter of the late William Ferguson Jack and Gwendolyn Hurdle Jack. Educated in the United Kingdom, she was employed in England as a Registered Nurse.

On April 3, 1971, she married Andrew Rauscher, M.D. in a private ceremony in East Sheen, Surrey, UK. 

Jocelyn was an enthusiastic bird watcher, avid gardener and talented artist specializing in painting, doll making and pottery. She loved to create paintings of English cottages, meadows and bluebell woods, all memories of her upbringing in England. She was very giving to her family and to the community. She opened her home to others, and they became part of her extended family. Jocelyn was also a skillful chef, creating new recipes for her family who always appreciated tasting her delicious creations. A talented horse rider, she passed on this passion to her daughter, and recently became involved with her hobby farm. In her free time, she volunteered at the Bassett Cancer Clinic and was a hospice volunteer helping ease the pain of others during their battles with cancer, as she was a two-time survivor herself. 

Jocelyn is survived by her husband of 48 years, Andrew Rauscher, M.D.; their five children, Daniel and Jeanne Rauscher of Haddam, Connecticut, Rebecca Nichols and fiancé Andre Mills of Westford, Massachusetts, Pilarin Nichols of North Andover, Massachusetts, Jemma Rauscher and John Dinnenn of Cooperstown, and Annabel Rauscher of Chelmsford, Massachusetts; eight grandchildren, Matthew, Alex, Laura, Liam, Maeve, Emily, Brendan and Finnigan; a sister-in-law, Marya Parker of England; and a long list of lifelong friends. A lifelong lover of animals she leaves behind Bodie, Ozzie, and her cat Freddy.

While there will be no service or gathering at this time, please remember the times you spent with Jocelyn, smile, and know that she is at peace. A celebration of life will be planned in the future.

For those who wish to make a donation in memory of Jocelyn, her family respectfully requests that memorial gifts be directed to the Susquehanna SPCA or the Salvation Army. 

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.