Connell, Dow & Deysenroth, Inc.Funeral Home: 2021

Peter Lindsay Macarthur

1970 - 2021

COOPERSTOWN – Peter Lindsay Macarthur, 51, of Dobbs Ferry and Cooperstown, died unexpectedly earlier this month at the family home on Stockingbrook in Cooperstown.

He was born April 10, 1970, in Ridgewood, NJ, a son of Lindsay Macarthur, Jr. and Warrene Shreve “Lennie” Macarthur.

A 1988 graduate of Choate Rosemary Hall in Wallingford, CT, Peter went on to Bowdoin College in Brunswick, ME where he graduated in 1992, exactly 40 years after his father, with a dual degree in German and Political Science. He continued his studies at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland, where he earned his Master of Science in International Politics in 1995. He enjoyed being part of a team and, from his early years at Choate, he rowed competitively for his school teams at home and abroad.

Peter pursued a long career in commercial banking, beginning in 1995 with the Bank of Scotland through his current position as a Senior Relationship Manager for HSBC Bank USA in New York City.

Peter’s well-known dedication to community service dates to his early high school years in Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ, where he was a junior member of the Ho-Ho-Kus Volunteer Ambulance Corps. A certified EMT, Peter was a member of both the Cooperstown Emergency Squad and the Dobbs Ferry Volunteer Ambulance Corps. Peter also served on the board of Pathfinder Village, Edmeston, for several years.

Peter always enjoyed his time spent in Cooperstown, especially in the summer months, and was an active member of the Cooperstown Country Club. He made sure all enjoyed the beauty and rich history of the area he loved. We share the memory of many activities with Peter: boating on Otsego Lake, hiking to Star Field, visiting the Cooperstown museums and cider mill, watching him march in the Springfield Fourth of July parade, mountain biking on trails and back roads, or just piling into the gator to visit neighbors and nearby friends. We will miss his warm smile, jovial laugh, and big bear hugs. He was an encourager to us all.

Peter is survived by his three siblings, Anne M. Booth and husband, Thomas of Ocean Isle Beach, NC, Jennifer M. Davis and husband, Louis D. "Tripp" Davis III of Abington, PA, and David P. Nichols and wife, Louise Reid Boyce Nichols of Wilmington, DE; two nephews, Ensign Owen P. Davis, USN and William Hewitt Ward Nichols; two nieces, Gwenyth A. Davis and Eliza Campbell Nichols; an uncle, Warren Perry Shreve and wife, Diane of Blue Springs, MO; and cousins Tracy Stewart, Shelby Stewart Giunti and Ashley Stewart Waltemath.

He was preceded in death by his father, Lindsay Macarthur, Jr. who died July 6, 2017, and his mother, Warrene S. “Lennie” Macarthur, who died September 22, 2020.

A private service is planned for the family, and a public gathering in Peter’s memory will be held in the late spring or early summer.

One way to remember and honor Peter’s life would be to make a memorial donation to the Cooperstown Emergency Squad, PO Box 322, Cooperstown, NY 13326 or the Pathfinder Village Foundation, 3 Chenango Road, Edmeston, NY 13335-2314; https://pathfindervillage.org/get-involved/donate.

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.

Douglas K. Walrath

1929 - 2021

COOPERSTOWN – Douglas K. Walrath, beloved husband, father and grandfather, who served the Village of Cooperstown as Clerk, Treasurer and Administrator and who was active with the Rotary Club and Christ Church, left us suddenly and unexpectedly after a brief illness Friday afternoon, December 17, 2021, at Bassett Medical Center with his wife, Peg, and Fr. Nathan Ritter, his pastor by his side. He was 92.

Born December 11, 1929, at the Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown, Douglas Kramer Walrath was one of two sons of Douglas O. and Bertha (Kramer) Walrath. Raised in the Village, he graduated from Cooperstown High School with the Class of 1947.

During the Korean War, Doug proudly served his country in the United States Army. He was badly wounded while on active duty and received the Purple Heart in April 1951.

Following his military service, Doug attended Ithaca College and earned a bachelor of science degree in radio and television graduating magna cum laude.

Beginning in February of 1965, Doug was employed by the Village of Cooperstown and served as Village Clerk and clerk of all the Village boards. As Village Treasurer, he was Administrator and Chief Budget Officer. He attended the training school sponsored by the New York State Conference of Mayors and in 1969 received their five-year award for training. He also helped organize the New York State Association of Municipal Purchasing Officials and served as Secretary.

His service to the community extended to his work as treasurer of the parent support group that raised funds to send the CCS Girls Field Hockey team to Australia in 1983. He also served as score keeper for the town ball club in the 1960s.

After retirement in June 1990, he continued serving the Village of Cooperstown when he was appointed to complete Jim Woolson’s unexpired term as Village Trustee. He also served a short term on the Village Water Board.

Of the Episcopal faith, Doug was a life-long faithful and dedicated member of Christ Church in Cooperstown. After a dozen years of service, he retired in 2005 as church treasurer. He also served as a Sunday School teacher and Junior Warden of the Vestry.

An active and dedicated member of the Cooperstown Rotary Club since 1970, Doug was a Paul Harris Fellow and served on the House Committee. He was also a member of the Sgt. Walter P. Eggleston Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 7128.

Throughout Doug’s life, he was always devoted to his God, his family, his local community and his country with a faithfulness that was truly honorable.

Doug is survived by his wife of 54 years, the former Margaret (Peg) Blencoe, whom he married on July 22, 1967, in a ceremony at the First Baptist Church of Cooperstown; their daughter, Elizabeth (Beth) Walrath-Tamayo and her husband, Salvador of West Chicago, Illinois; and two grandchildren, Salvador Douglas Tamayo of Madrid, Spain and Sofia Vareliana Tamayo of West Chicago, Illinois. He is further survived by his wife’s sister and husband, Ruth and Peter Deddish of Oak Park, Illinois and their family, and many other nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his father, Douglas O. Walrath who died July 30, 1974; his mother, Bertha K. Walrath who died November 11, 1987; his brother, James O. Walrath who died April 8, 2012, and a nephew, James C. “JC” Walrath who died June 10, 2006.

The Office of the Burial of the Dead will be offered at 11 o'clock in the morning on Friday, July 8, 2022, at Christ Church, Cooperstown, with the Rev'd Nathan P. Ritter, Rector officiating. The Service of Committal and Burial will following in the Blencoe Family Plot in Lakewood Cemetery, Cooperstown. Military Honors will be rendered at the cemetery by members of the Sgt. Walter P. Eggleston Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 7128, Cooperstown and the New York State Military Forces Funeral Honor Guard. Immediateley following the interment, there will be a reception at Templeton Hall, Cooperstown.

As a way to honor the memory of Doug’s life, his family would appreciate memorial donations to the Cooperstown Rotary Foundation, PO Box 993, Cooperstown, NY 13326, or to the faith-based organization of one’s choice.

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

John Robert Oakley

1945 - 2021

CHERRY VALLEY – John Robert Oakley, beloved husband, father, grandfather and brother who worked for many years as a logger and then a loom operator and technician for Thistle Hill Weavers, passed Friday night, December 17, 2021, at his home on Chestnut Ridge Road surrounded by his family. He was 76.

Born July 20, 1945, in Muncie, Indiana, John was a son of William Marion Oakley and Ruth (Dunn) Oakley.

For many years he was employed by Otsego Electric Cooperative, Inc. as a foreman for the line clearance crew. In recent years he joined with his wife, Rabbit Goody in operating Thistle Hill Weavers in Cherry Valley. John was especially adept at maintaining and repairing the complex looms and machinery involved with the day-to-day operations at Thistle Hill Weavers, and was greatly appreciated for his expertise and engineering skills.

He will be fondly remembered as a calm and peaceful man who possessed a special and unique relationship with his God.

John will be greatly missed by his wife, Rabbit Goody of Cherry Valley; his four children from a previous marriage, Hollyann Oakley of Cherry Valley and her children, Jasmine and Jacob Neill, Daniel Oakley and wife, Diana of Cherry Valley and their children Dorothy and Gabriel Oakley, Courtney McInnis and husband, Josh of Mountain View, Hawaii and their children Isaiah, Elijah, Aaron, Azariah, Tabitha and Noah John, and Rebecca Sutherland and husband Guy of Boston, New York and their children Clara and Griffin; a sister, Virginia Braley of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; a brother William Oakley of Charleston, South Carolina, and several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of John’s life will be held next year.

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

Ryan Scott Bennett

1991 - 2021

HARTWICK – Ryan Scott Bennett, 30, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Hartwick on Wednesday, December 8, 2021.

He was born September 6, 1991, at the Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown, the son of Deborah Lynn Ubner Bennett. After graduating from Cooperstown Central School with the Class of 2010, he attended Herkimer County Community College.

Most recently he was employed as a cook at Stagecoach Coffee in Cooperstown.

Ryan valued the time spent with his family, whether on holidays or ordinary days, whether at the beach, the park, or home on the couch playing video games. He enjoyed going places and outdoor activities with his Mom and daughter. Ryan adored his daughter Aubree, taking great pride in her achievements and supporting her goals.

Ryan was happiest when he had meaningful work to do. When not preparing food at Stagecoach Coffee, Ryan enjoyed riding his motorcycles or learning new things working on his car with his grandpa and Raymond. He was always quick to offer help to someone in need.

In 2018, Ryan was part of his church’s mission team that travelled to the Puerto Rican island of Vieques, where he helped repair houses damaged by Hurricane Maria. The experience moved him deeply, and her vowed he would return if given the chance.

Ryan is survived by his loving mother, Deborah Bennett and her partner, Raymond R. Bennett, Jr. of Fly Creek; his beloved daughter, Aubree Bennett of Ilion; his maternal grandparents, Robert & Marcia Ubner of Fly Creek; his aunts and uncles Scott (Teresa) Ubner and cousins Christopher & Adam Ubner of Fly Creek, Mark (Melissa) Ubner and cousins Todd, Shania, & Jenna Ubner of Burlington Flats; and several other loving family and friends.

Ryan’s family will receive friends beginning at 4 p.m. Saturday, December 18, 2021, at the Fly Creek United Methodist Church, 852 County Highway 26, Fly Creek. The visitation will be followed by a Memorial Service at 5 p.m. at the church with the Rev. Sharon Rankins-Burd, pastor officiating.

In lieu of flowers, Ryan’s family would greatly appreciate that memorial donations be directed to Deborah Bennett for the benefit of Aubree Bennett via the Leatherstocking Credit Union, 24 Glen Avenue, Cooperstown, NY 13326.

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

Robert E. Hall “Papa”

1946 - 2021

SPRINGFIELD CENTER – Robert E. Hall, who will be remembered as a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather, passed away peacefully early Thursday morning, December 2, 2021, at his home in the Town of Springfield. Bob was 75.

Robert Edward Hall was born July 27, 1946, at St. Luke’s Memorial Hospital in Utica, one of four children of Lincoln Jasper Hall and Helen Mae VanEtten Hall. Raised in Utica, he was a graduate of Utica Free Academy.

On April 16, 1966, Bob married Mary Judith Horgan, the love of his life, in a ceremony at St. Francis de Sales Roman Catholic Church in Utica.

Bob will truly be missed by his family and all those whose lives he touched in so many different ways.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Judy, of Springfield Center; their four children, Kimberly Van Dyke and husband, Richard of Springfield Center, Robert E. Hall, Jr. of Cooperstown, Robin McCormack and husband, Patrick of Remsen, and Aaron Scot Hall of Albany; and eleven grandchildren and four great grandchildren, Danielle Burr and husband, Jake, and their children Helena, Willow, Leo and Judith, Nathan and Nash Van Dyke, Maggie and Reilly Hall, Michael, Madelyn and Alexander McCormack, and Isabella, Marley and Cooper Hall. He is further survived by a brother, Ronald Hall and wife, Joanne of Whitesboro; two brothers-in-law, John Davidson and Phil McKenzie; several nieces and nephews, and many special friends.

He was preceded in death by two sisters, Dorothy Davidson and Beverly McKenzie.

Throughout his life, Bob held many jobs, and will be remembered for always being a hardworking man. He worked for Indium Corporation in Clinton, owned and operated Hall’s Red & White grocery store in King Ferry, and was a truck driver and delivery man for Freihofer’s bakery in Nelliston.

Baseball was always an important and integral part of Bob’s life, from his childhood years, through high school, and then as an adult. In his younger years he played fast-pitch softball. As he got older, he decided to hang up his glove and become an umpire, a position he truly excelled in. For many years, he was the umpire for the Milford Macs. Bob, with the help and support of dear friends and fellow umpires, was integral in the formation of the NY Susquehanna Valley Umpire Association and held the title of Commissioners/Assignor for many years. Bob took pride in keeping everything in good order when it came to scheduling games at historic Doubleday Field. He also did some scouting work and was instrumental in organizing the 2015 Cooperstown Baseball Classic between the women’s Japanese and U.S. National Baseball Teams.

The greatest joy in his life came from being husband to Judy and Papa to his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. He was their greatest fan and loved watching his family grow and excel in their areas of interest.

A visitation will take place between 12 Noon and 2 p.m. Tuesday, December 7, 2021, at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown.

A Funeral Service will be offered at 2 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home, with Fr. Michael Cambi, pastor of St. Mary’s “Our Lady of the Lake” Roman Catholic Church in Cooperstown officiating. Interment will follow in Springfield Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the Hall family would appreciate donations in memory of Bob to the Friends of Doubleday, PO Box 1275, Cooperstown, NY 13326

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

Jean Smullens

1935 - 2021

COOPERSTOWN – Jean Smullens, “Grandma Jean”, 86, passed away peacefully at home in the company of her children late Wednesday night, November 24, 2021.

The youngest of three, Jean was born on August 8, 1935, to Walter and Elizabeth (Martzloff) O’Connell in Lowville. She graduated from Lowville Academy and Central School in 1953, where her parents were both teachers. She attended Albany Medical Center School of Nursing, where she met her husband, Robert. In 1959, Bob and Jean were married in Lowville. Later that year Jean received her RN accreditation and the two took up residency in Johnstown where she began her nursing career as a staff nurse at Johnstown Hospital and then later, as a clinical instructor at St. Mary’s Hospital School in Amsterdam. In 1964, after obtaining her BS in Nursing from Russell Sage College, Bob became a partner in Church & Scott Pharmacy, and the two moved to Cooperstown.

Three children later, she returned to work at The Clara Welch Thanksgiving Home before becoming an LPN instructor at Otsego BOCES. In 1984, she began her most cherished work as a supervising nurse for Otsego County Public Health and also received her Masters in vocational education. She retired in 2000, but soon after returned to the County as a part-time staff nurse for two years before becoming a part-time admissions nurse at Bassett Hospital until 2015.

An avid sports fan and long-time supporter of Cooperstown Athletics, Jean often attended various sporting events where the young athletes dubbed her “Grandma Jean.” She was a staunch NY Yankee fan and loved to watch and attend Syracuse basketball games.

Locally, she will be fondly remembered as a third of what the late Fr. John Roos respectfully called, “The Holy Trinity” along with her long-time friends Barb LaCava and Carol Taylor, who travelled the country and world together. The Cooperstown community was very important to Jean, who served on numerous committees and organizations. She enjoyed organizing retired nurses’ luncheons and organized knitters and distributed supplies for the Chemo Cap Program for cancer patients at Bassett. Her kind heart, cheery and caring personality, heart-warming smile and her never ending desire to help people left a lasting impression on the lives of all who knew and loved her.

Jean is survived by three children, Thomas (Cooperstown), with children Devereux and Kylen, Anne (Cooperstown) with children Maggie and Reilly, and Andrew “Face” (Seattle); a sister-in-law, Evelyn O’Connell, and several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her loving husband of 39 years, Bob Smullens, and her brothers, James and Jack O’Connell.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 1 p.m. Thursday, December 2, 2021, at St. Mary’s “Our Lady of the Lake” Roman Catholic Church, Cooperstown, with Fr. Michael Cambi, pastor officiating.

A private Service of Committal and Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Index.

In lieu of flowers, Jean’s family would appreciate memorial donations in her memory to Helios Care, 297 River Street Service Road, Oneonta, NY 13820.

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

William Galluba

1944 - 2021

COOPERSTOWN – On Thursday, November 25, 2021, William “Billy” Galluba passed away at Albany Medical Center with his loving wife of 55 years and daughters by his side. He fought a courageous battle against leukemia. He was 77. He is survived by his loving wife, Dolores (Dede), two daughters, Gail DeNicola and son-in-law Dave, Sharon Galluba, sister Betty Lou and brother-in-law Tom Eccles, and his grandchildren Bryan, Steven, Kristyn, and Sarah and great granddaughter Harper.

Bill was born to Louis and Betty Galluba in Brooklyn on August 5, 1944. He grew up in Sea Cliff and graduated from North Shore High School. He served in the US Army Military Police as 1st Lieutenant with the 101st Airborne. After service in the Army, Bill joined the NYC police department and became a detective in the 13th Precinct in downtown Manhattan. He loved to tell stories about his time as a police officer, and share his love of NYC with his grandchildren. After 20 years on the force, he retired and helped his daughters purchase BusyBee Florists in Oakdale and Islip. He spent many hours helping out and talking to customers.

Bill could never sit still. During his retirement, he decided to go back to work for Dunbar Armory for almost 10 years. He made new friends and traveled around the country, which he loved. He visited many big cities and had so many stories to tell about the places he went to and the people he met.

While in the service, he married the love of his life, Dolores (Dede) LeTellier, on July 2, 1966. Until the day he died, he told her how beautiful she is. They shared their love of traveling, and together they went on 21 cruises over the years and spent 14 winters in Hawaii. They also enjoyed time at their condo in Pawleys Island, South Carolina where they would bike together, spend endless hours on the beach and enjoy happy hour at Quigleys.

Bill and Dede raised their daughters in West Islip and from there moved to Walton. Bill loved the Catskill Mountains. He also built a vacation home overlooking the Pepacton Reservoir which he enjoyed for many years. He and Dede built their final home together in Cooperstown and lived there for the past 20 years. Bill loved Otsego Lake and all that it had to offer: boating, swimming, kayaking, fishing, bird watching and golfing. When he wasn’t working in his garden, he spent many hours at Glimmerglass Park walking around and enjoying the scenery. He loved to sit by the lake.

Bill’s four grandchildren and great granddaughter brought him his greatest joy over the years. He traveled with them and shared all that he loved to do. Many hours were spent playing ping pong and Uno when they were younger. The grandkids loved to hear his stories and share their lives with him. He was there for every graduation, birthday and holiday. As they got older, Grandpa Billy loved to communicate with them via text messages and SnapChat. He was so proud of all that they were accomplishing: college graduations, Steven’s service in the US Marine Corps and the birth of his great granddaughter. Bill is survived by many loving friends too. The simple things in life made him happiest: a cup of coffee, a glass of red wine, a good meal, 10,000 steps and conversation with everyone! He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and four grandpups.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, December 11, 2021, at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown, with the Rev. Thomas E. Pullyblank, United Methodist Minister, officiating. Military Honors will be accorded by members of the Clark F. Simmons American Legion Post No. 579, Cooperstown and the New York State Military Forces Honor Guard.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Susquehanna SPCA, 5082-5088 State Highway 28, Cooperstown, NY 13326.

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

Bruce E. Bachanas

1957 - 2021

COOPERSTOWN – Bruce E. Bachanas of Christian Hill, a life-long area resident who worked for many years as a baker, passed away Thursday afternoon, November 18, 2021, at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown. He was 63.

Born December 20, 1957, in Cooperstown, Bruce Edward Bachanas was one of three children of the late Norman Edmund Bachanas and Bernice G. (Roseboom) Bachanas. In his youth, he and his family enjoyed many camping trips, as well as the annual family vacation that took place just about every August which provided many great memories. His nickname became “Wish”, bestowed on him by his grandfather because he was always wishing for this and wishing for that. After graduating with the Class of 1976 from Cooperstown Central School, he joined the military, and proudly served his country in the United States Air Force.

For most of his working life he was employed as a baker for various establishments, starting with Dan-Dee Donuts in Oneonta and Hemstrought’s Bakery in Utica. For many years he was employed as a baker at The Otesaga in Cooperstown where he made many great memories, great friends and created many a masterpiece including giant gingerbread houses of different area landmarks including Kingfisher Tower. In November of 2000 he started working for Price Chopper, and from 2005 until 2008 he was the bakery manager at the Price Chopper in Richfield Springs.

Throughout his life he loved playing golf, anytime, anyplace. One of his proudest moments was achieving a hole-in-one at The Leatherstocking Golf Course one Halloween day. He had a fondness for watching Buffalo Bills football games, so much so that he and his wife, Jerilynn attended a game in Buffalo on their honeymoon, followed by a visit to Niagara Falls. He also enjoyed playing darts, watching Syracuse University Orange basketball games, the New York Mets, and NASCAR, all while enjoying an ice cold Lake Placid UBU Ale and a cigar. Every year he enjoyed taking his parents and mother and father-in-law on fall trips all around beautiful New York State. He will also be remembered as the master griller for breakfast, lunch and dinner, a passion he enjoyed year round.

After Bruce became incapacitated due to MS, he spent most of his time at home doing a lot of bird and squirrel watching from his window. He always enjoyed their antics.

On September 18, 1999, Bruce married Jerilynn Dykstra in a ceremony at Christ Church, Cooperstown. In addition to his wife of 22 years, Jerilynn of Christian Hill, Bruce is survived by his three daughters from his first marriage, Whitney, Kelsey and Lillian Bachanas who he always enjoyed seeing, and a grandson, Connor Freeman who he especially enjoyed spending time with – hearing his joyful laughter brought him great happiness. He is further survived by a sister, Jane Bachanas and partner, John Knapp of Schuyler Lake, and a brother, Michael Bachanas of Richfield Springs, as well as nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his dad, affectionately known as “Norm” or “Bub”, who died July 7, 2006, and mom, “Bercie”, who died November 6, 2014.

A service will be offered at 1 p.m. Saturday, December 4, 2021, (the 91st anniversary of his mother’s birth), at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown, with Richard Sliter officiating.

Immediately following the service, all are welcome to gather at The Pratt for a more informal time of food and drink and sharing stories of Bruce’s wonderful life.

For those who wish to honor Bruce’s life with a memorial donation, please consider the Fly Creek Emergency Squad, PO Box 218, Fly Creek, NY 13337 in appreciation for the many times they helped Bruce. Please also consider the Susquehanna SPCA, 5082-5088 State Highway 28, Cooperstown, NY 13326.

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

Dolores S. Coleman

1929 - 2021

COOPERSTOWN - Dolores S. Coleman, founder of Coleman's Answering Service that served the Cooperstown community and beyond for 50 years, died late Saturday afternoon, November 13, 2021, at Cooperstown Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing. A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and sister, she was 92.

A native of Cooperstown, Dolores Maxine Snyder was born at the Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital on February 27, 1929, a daughter of Clifford LeRoy Snyder and Genevieve Veda née Knapp Snyder, and was raised on a farm in Middlefield. In the summer of 1945, she went to work for "Ma Bell", which is what New York Telephone Co. was referred to at the time. One year later, she graduated from Cherry Valley High School with the Class of '46, and attended ("at the insistence of my father!") a business school in Utica. That didn't last long, and she returned to work as a switchboard operator at the Cooperstown exchange, then located at 52 Pioneer Street, just south of the Pratt Hotel.

It was during this time that she met Charles A. Coleman, and on December 3, 1948, they were married in a ceremony held in the Rectory at St. Mary's "Our Lady of the Lake" Roman Catholic Church in Cooperstown, with Fr. Patrick Whelan officiating. Dolores and Chuck first lived on Pioneer Street, and then settled into their home on Beaver Street and raised their three boys.

For the next 15 years Dolores continued working for the telephone company. She and the other operators placed all calls manually, plugging a long cord into a socket to receive an incoming call, and then plugging another long cord into another socket to send that call on to its destination. She did that until February 18, 1961, when New York Telephone Co, (Ma Bell's official name) closed the local exchange.

About the time that the phone company went dial, a good friend, Tom Goodyear, invited all the telephone girls to a party at Cary Mede Farm. It was there that he asked Dolores what she wanted to do with the rest of her life, and asked her about running an answering service in Cooperstown. Dolores' response was no-she just didn't think there would be many customers. Goodyear assured her that with his help, they would. So on July 3, 1961, a switchboard was placed in the Coleman home on Beaver Street and Coleman's Answering Service was in business. She started with seven customers (The American Red Cross was first, closely followed by Ingalls Funeral Home) and by the end of the year she was up to 14. She operated the switchboard day and night for 20 years, but on September 25, 1981, she switched to, as she put it, "an oversized telephone". Over the course of 50 years, Dolores' customers reached more than 100, including several funeral homes, physicians, veterinarians, automobile repair shops, and the police department. Whether it was a late-night call during calving season, or the unpleasant call about the death of a loved one, her service was there, with Dolores ready to answer.

After her 50 years, four months and four days in service, Dolores sold her answering service to a company in Albany. She was very concerned that her loyal customers be well-served by the new company, as many had become good friends and were no longer just customers.

She and Chuck later sold their home on Beaver Street and moved to the Cooper Lane Apartments. She enjoyed the ability to walk to town, have lunch with old friends, shop and enjoy other pleasures she was not able to do since she was always answering the phone.

Through the years, Dolores had a passion for horses and horse racing, and somehow always found time to get away for at least a day to go to the track. Perhaps her most favorite place to go was Saratoga during racing season in August. On May 17, 2014, her family honored her love of horses by having the first race at Belmont Park named for her. Before, during and after this special event, Dolores expressed how much she enjoyed this.

Dolores will also be remembered for the many cakes she baked for family and friends’ special events and parties. In later years she enjoyed being a part of the Prayerfully Made Ministry at St. Mary’s “Our Lady of the Lake” Roman Catholic Church in Cooperstown, knitting blankets and shawls for the local hospital and nursing homes.

She will be greatly missed by her three sons and daughters-in-law, Charles A. "Skip" Coleman III and Laura, Clifford S. Coleman and Colleen, and Carter F. Coleman and Katie, all of Cooperstown. She is further survived by eight grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren: Brandi and Ross Valvo and their two children, Amanda Coleman and her two children, Jill Coleman and her three children, Lindsay and Tim Hayes and their two children, Clifford and Meagan Coleman, Jr. and their two children, Melissa and Dan Croft and their three children, Maegan and Scott Whiteman and their three children, and McKenzie Coleman. Also surviving is a very special cousin, Susan Vicki Rezen of Florida, and many, many nieces and nephews. She often stated that she had a very special family and loved them all very much.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 65 years, Chuck "Pappy" Coleman, who died November 9, 2013, and her sister, Betsy J. Snyder, who died May 15, 2016.

Family and friends may pay their respects at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown from 10 a.m. until 12 Noon on Saturday morning, November 27, 2021.

A Funeral Service will be offered at 12 Noon on Saturday at the funeral home with the Rev. Betsy Jay officiating. Immediately following the service, all are welcome to re-gather at the Cooperstown Vets Club for a time of refreshment, fellowship, and perhaps some singing…

As an alternative to flowers, please consider a donation in memory of Dolores to the Cooperstown Fire Department, PO Box 1, Cooperstown, NY 13326.

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

Louise Clark Hulse

1917 - 2021

COOPERSTOWN – Louise Clark Hulse, a native of Cooperstown, died early Sunday morning, November 14, 2021, at Cooperstown Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing. She was 104.

Born Louise Frances Clark on September 21, 1917, at The Thanksgiving Hospital in Cooperstown, she was the only child of John Vincent Clark and Louise née Hanlon Clark. At the time of her birth, her family was firmly embedded into the fabric of Cooperstown: her maternal grandfather, Michael Hanlon, served as Mayor of the Village in the early 1900s and owned three hotels, and one uncle owned a printing press and another a shoe store.

During World War I Louise and her parents moved to Church Street in Oneonta. As a young girl she grew up swimming in Oneonta’s Wilber Park and going to the circus on the Sixth Ward Booster Club fields. She could recall tense times during her childhood, such as when the Ku Klux Klan would burn crosses up in the hills. And when Al Smith ran for President of the United States – the first Catholic to do so – her mother put his picture in the window of their house and someone threw a brick through it into their living room.

After attending St. Mary’s School in Oneonta, she graduated from Oneonta High School in 1935. She received her undergraduate degree from Hartwick College in 1939, and earned a master’s degree in French from Syracuse University. For several years, she taught language in Bellport on Long Island, where she met her husband, Richmond L. Hulse, who was from Westhampton Beach. The couple was married January 30, 1944, in a ceremony at St. Mary’s Church in Oneonta.

At the time, Mr. Hulse, a pharmacist, was serving in the US Navy as an analytical chemist, so Louise and he lived in Brooklyn for two years until he was assigned to Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. To be nearer to her family, Louise took a teaching job at Morris Central School. After the War, they returned to Long Island where they raised their family. They spent their summers in Oneonta.

The Hulses retired to Cooperstown in 1982, largely because of the Leatherstocking Golf Course. Both avid golfers, Louise played until she was 89. They also enjoyed attending productions of the Glimmerglass Opera, were active members of St. Mary’s “Our Lady of the Lake” Roman Catholic Church in Cooperstown and the Leatherstocking Golf Course, and spent their winters in Stuart, Florida. Louise was also active with the Bassett Auxiliary and the Cooperstown Women’s Club, did expert needlepoint, and enjoyed playing Bridge and arranging flowers. Throughout her life, she was always devoted to her family and her faith.

After Mr. Hulse passed away on January 4, 2001, Louise continued to maintain the family home in Lakeland Shores. In October of 2018 she moved into Cooperstown Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing.

Louise is survived by two sons and a daughter, Richmond J. Hulse, Sr. and Donna Thomson Hulse of Cooperstown and Kiawha Island, South Carolina, Christopher Hulse and Patricia of Cos Cob, Connecticut, and Pamela Lotito and Alan, of West Hempstead, Long Island; six grandchildren, Richmond J. Hulse, Jr. (Christine) Christopher P. Hulse (Jennifer), Stephanie Gannon (Michael), Alan Lotito (Suzanne), Kristin Lotito, and Kimberly Horowitz (Phil); and 12 great grandchildren, Ryan and Leah Lotito, Richmond Matthew Hulse, Betsy, Chip and Jane Hulse, Liam, Bradley and Morgan Gannon, and Erica, Mason and Hayden Horowitz.

Family and friends may call and pay their respects from 4-6 p.m. Thursday afternoon, November 18, 2021, at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 10 a.m. Friday, November 19, 2021, at St. Mary’s “Our Lady of the Lake” Roman Catholic Church in Cooperstown with Fr. Michael Cambi, pastor officiating.

The Service of Committal and Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Index, where Louise will be laid to rest.

In lieu of flowers, Masses or contributions to the charity of one’s choice would be greatly appreciated.

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

Sandra L. Thorne

1942 - 2021

COOPERSTOWN – Sandra “Sandy” L. Thorne, a native of Cooperstown and long-time faithful member of Christ Church, passed away peacefully Monday evening, November 8, 2021, at her home with her family by her side. She was 79.

Born September 22, 1942, at the Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown, Sandy was a daughter of William R.P. and Aline M. (Campbell) Heller.

After graduating from Cooperstown High School in 1960, Sandy attended the Central City Business Institute (CCBI) in Syracuse where she completed their secretarial course. For many years she was employed as the Office Manager and Secretary for the Otsego County Highway Department.

On August 8, 1964, at Christ Church in Cooperstown, Sandy was united in marriage to Marshall Lewis Thorne, another Cooperstown native who had just completed his time in the United States Marine Corps. They lived for a time in her grandparent’s home on Elm Street in Cooperstown, until moving to a home near Fork Shop where they have happily resided for the past 30 years.

Of the Episcopal faith, Sandy was a life-long, devoted and faithful member of Christ Church in Cooperstown. Through the years she served the church in many ways, including serving on the Altar Guild, ushering with Marshall, and as a member of the Vestry. She and Marshall were also faithful attendees of the 8 a.m. Sunday Services. She was also member of the Native Daughters of Cooperstown, the Clark F. Simmons American Legion Auxiliary, and served for many years as secretary on the Board of Directors of the Hartwick Seminary Cemetery Association. In her leisure, she loved to shop and enjoyed entertaining, especially dinner parties with all the extras. Sandy also had a fondness for the Christmas season that was unmatched. She always went out of her way to make Christmas special for everyone she knew, and during the Holidays her home was a testament to her love for the Season as she displayed her enormous collection of Santa Clauses. Most especially, Sandy loved her family – they were the most important part of her life. She especially adored and doted on her two granddaughters, Dakota and Natasha, and she and Marshall enjoyed taking them on trips. Family, Church and Community: Sandy led a full and productive life, and will be greatly missed by her family and many friends.

Sandy is survived by her loving husband of 57 years, Marshall, of Cooperstown; their son, Jeffrey S. Thorne and wife, Stephanie, of Otego; two granddaughters, Dakota R. and Natasha L. Thorne; and a sister, Marion Terpening of Warren, Ohio and Cooperstown, and her family, Matthew W.C. Terpening and Andrew J., Matthew D., Jaden N., Trinity R. and Tristan Terpening and Meredith M. Arn and Brenna M. Arn and Sage.

The Office of the Burial of the Dead with Holy Eucharist (Rite One) will be offered at 11 a.m. Friday, November 12, 2021, in Christ Church, Cooperstown, with the Rev'd Nathan P. Ritter, Rector officiating.

The Committal service and inurnment will follow at the Ecumenical Columbarium in the Church-yard at Christ Church.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in the form of memorial gifts may be made to the Christ Church All Souls Fund, 69 Fair Street, Cooperstown, NY 13326 or Fly Creek Emergency Squad, PO Box 218, Fly Creek, NY 13337.

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

Richard Clyde Butler

1939 - 2021

ST. PETERSBURG, FLORIDA – Richard C. “Dick” Butler, 82, of St. Petersburg, Florida, and native son of Cooperstown, passed away October 19, 2021. He is survived by his wife of 26 years, Anita Gettys Butler of St. Petersburg, Florida; son Brian Butler of Woburn, Massachusetts, daughter-in-law Siobhan and granddaughters Joanie and Sinead; daughter Wendy Macfarlane of Essex, Vermont, granddaughters Alexandra, Jill and Megan, and great-granddaughter Lucy; son Keith Butler of Honeoye Falls, daughter-in-law Jennifer and granddaughter Mairen; sister Susan Butler McCullough of Cazenovia, husband John; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was especially proud of his granddaughters and great-granddaughter. He was predeceased by his parents Clyde and Agnes Butler; sister Jean Butler Olin, brother-in-law Richard Olin; and former wife Gail Thomas Pillar.

Dick was born at MIB Hospital Cooperstown on May 11, 1939, and graduated from Cooperstown High School in 1956, where he lettered in basketball and baseball, and was active in many clubs and activities, including the Student Council. In 1956 he was awarded the CCS John Terry McGovern Sportsmanship Trophy. Upon graduation, he attended St. Lawrence University, and before finishing, enlisted in the US Army, where he served from 1959-1960 and 1961-1962. Upon discharge, he returned to St. Lawrence and received a BA degree in English in 1964. During this time, he married Gail Thomas, started a family, and went on to work for Key Bank in Albany, Honeywell in Needham Heights, Massachusetts, Mohawk Data Sciences in Herkimer, and Hewlett-Packard in Framingham, Massachusetts. In 1974, he returned to Cooperstown as a third-generation owner/operator of Butler Press. He loved the opportunity to carry on the family printing business, be his own boss, and for his children to call Cooperstown home.

He was very active in the Cooperstown community, and particularly proud of his service in the Cooperstown Fire Department, where he was Secretary and Foreman of Engine Company 2, and the Cooperstown Emergency Squad, where he responded to over 1,000 calls. He also served as president of the Chamber of Commerce and was president of the CCS Alumni Association. He and his family took advantage of all that Cooperstown had to offer, particularly Otsego Lake, where his Chris Craft ski boat was a fixture. He was a member of the First Baptist Church and American Legion Post 579.

In the mid 1980’s, Dick moved to Florida to pursue a warmer climate and a career in real estate. It was here that he would meet and fall in love with Anita Gettys, marry, and settle in St. Petersburg. He spent many years investing in and renovating homes, as well as providing mortgage brokerage services. Anita was his biggest supporter, and by his side when he passed.

Throughout his whole life, his true passion was flying. He first flew an airplane in the early 1960s, and eventually received his pilot’s license in the 1970’s, going on to receive an instrument rating and commercial license. In the late 2000’s, he achieved a life-long dream and purchased a Lake Amphibian airplane and enjoyed flying it off the waters in Florida.

He also loved to travel and see new places, and has been to every state except Hawaii, nine countries, the Bahamas and US Virgin Islands.

Dick had many dreams, many of which he realized, and others that eluded him. However, he always felt that his faith and family were all that really mattered. He was an eternal optimist and had a smile that put everyone at ease. Anyone who knew him could see this.

The family will hold a private burial service at Lakewood Cemetery, Cooperstown. Memorial gifts can be made to the Cooperstown Fire Department, PO Box 1, Cooperstown, NY 13326.

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

Inge Otten Roemer

1921 - 2021

Inge Otten Roemer, 100, a resident of Sand Hill, Otego, Fly Creek and Oneonta in Otsego County for 75 years, passed away Saturday night, October 16, 2021, at her home in Otego.

A native of Germany, Inge was born February 1, 1921, in Hamburg, a daughter of Ernest and Elizabeth (Bartels) Bondiek. When she was 2 ½ she and her parents moved from Germany to Fairview, New Jersey, to live with an uncle who paid their way to the States. One of her earliest memories was witnessing the opening of the George Washington Bridge in 1931. As a teenager she worked in the summer as kitchen help for a wealthy family, and also on a farm that had summer boarders. After graduation from Cliffside High School in 1938, she travelled to Germany to live with relatives still in the old country, as well as to begin her training as a school teacher, studying the methods of kindergarten founder Friedrich Wilhelm August Froebel at the Froebel School in Hamburg.

Her training was interrupted in August 1939, when the American Consulate sent a message to "leave immediately" because the German borders were closing at midnight. With the help of friends and strangers, Inge was able to take a ferry to Sweden, then drive through the night to Oslo, Norway. As her German Reichsmarks were suddenly worthless, it was only through the kindness of an American – who happened to live near where her parents were living in New Jersey – that she was able to book passage on the Norwegian SS Bergensfjord.

While on board she was able to spend time with the von Trapp family, who were also escaping the Nazi regime. Inge once recalled, “They would give concerts for us! We didn’t make that big a deal out of it. I didn’t know they were famous! They were just a nice, wealthy family, who was staying in a big cabin up front.”

A year after she returned to the US from Germany, Inge met and then married Martin Otten in 1941. The two of them worked successfully toward their dream of having a farm and a family, and in 1945 they bought a dairy farm on Sand Hill, Unadilla Township and moved there with their two children, Helga and Martin. Shortly thereafter daughters Bettie and Melanie were born, and over the next 20 years they raised their four children there. For the first several years they also had summer boarders. In 1955, with the support of her family, Inge was able to return to her studies. She was passionate about completing her education, and making sure her children would go to college as well. She received a bachelor's degree from SUNY Oneonta in 1959, and taught third and fourth grade at Mount Upton Elementary School for 22 years. Her four children all completed bachelor's degrees. In 1967 Inge and Martin moved from their farm to Otego.

Travelling was part of Inge and Martin's lives. There were countless trips “across the pond” to visit Inge and Martin’s relatives and friends in Germany. In 1950 their children, Helga and Martin went along, and ten years later the younger two, Bettie and Melanie went. In the 1960s there were family trips to Florida during spring break, and after the children were grown, Inge and Martin drove down the eastern seaboard and out west to visit friends and relatives, particularly her sister, Maren in Utah. Inge and Martin flew numerous times to northern Germany to visit Helga and her family in Alfstedt, and other relatives who lived in the area as well as Inge’s relatives in Hamburg.

Inge’s adventurous spirit drew her many times to other travel experiences and destinations. She and a girlfriend made an Elder Hostel trip to the southwest in the 1990s, and later took a tour of Hawaii together. She traveled in southern Germany and Austria with Bettie and her family in 1998. She also went on a road trip with Bettie and Bob to explore the coast of Maine and to finally see the Bay of Fundy and the huge tides there. In 2002 at 81, she went sailing for ten days with Martin, Bettie, and their families on a 50-foot yacht in Tortolla, BVI. She made a land-sea tour of Alaska and Glacier Bay with Melanie in 2014. Over the years, Inge made numerous trips to Utah accompanied by her children to visit her sister, Maren and to see the natural beauty of the region. Once she was asked for her secret to growing older. Just like George Burns said, “you have to have younger friends!”

After Martin's death in 1996, Inge met Carl Roemer, a widower in the German reading group in Cooperstown. They married in 1998 and lived in Otego as well as in his home in Fly Creek for the next 15 years. She and Carl were active in the German reading group and travelled abroad via bus and boat tours in Germany, Italy and Austria. After Carl's death in 2013, Inge moved to The Plains at Parish Homestead in Oneonta.

Music was an important part of Inge's life and she recognized the joy it brought to others. She played piano, recorder and autoharp, sang in the Women's Glee Club at SUNY Oneonta during the 1950s, and taught her elementary school students to play tonette. Family road trips often included three-part rounds and folks tunes in German or English in the car. Inge went on to learn accordion in her 60s, and at 95 took up harmonica to play in a harmonica band after moving to The Plains at Parish Homestead in Oneonta. She played for her own enjoyment, for family and friends, and for members of retirement communities, often as a sing-along. At 99 she bought a Chromebook and used it to connect with relatives.

She celebrated her 100th birthday on February 1, 2021, with a dinner party in her honor at her apartment in Otego and an international Zoom party with friends and family from Europe and the U.S. with a few guests at her apartment.

Inge is survived by her children: Helga (Klaus) Kahrs, Martin (Carol) Otten, Bettie (Bob) Bennett and Melanie (Jack) Manis; as well as 7 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren, and numerous relatives in Germany.

A private graveside service will be held at the convenience of the family in Sand Hill Cemetery, Unadilla.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the First Christian Church of Otego, Otsdawa Road, Otego, NY 13825; The Otego Emergency Squad, PO Box 79, Otego, NY 13825; The Sand Hill Cemetery Association, c/o Gloria Hall, Secretary, 1497 Covered Bridge Road, Unadilla, NY 13849; Helios Care (Hospice), 297 River Street Service Road, Suite 1, Oneonta, NY 13820; or the Carl and Inge Otten Roemer ’59 Scholarship, c/o The College at Oneonta Foundation, SUNY Oneonta, 308 Netzer Administration Building, Oneonta, NY 13820 in memory of Inge Ottem Roemer.

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

Anthony G. Schlesier

1935 - 2021

HARTWICK – Anthony G. Schlesier, a long-time resident of Hartwick, died October 16, 2021. He was 86 years old.

Anthony was born in Huntington on October 1, 1935, and was predeceased by his wife Angelina S. Schlesier.

Tony is survived by his daughters, Elizabeth (Scott) Flaska, Lucy (Robert) Dubray, Theresa (Gary) Davis and Mary (Christopher) De Nike and many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

He spent most of his career in agriculture and retired from the Army Reserves. He enjoyed his retirement by traveling and spending time on the family farm. He will be missed by many.

Private arrangements are being made through Connell, Dow & Deysenroth, Inc. by his family. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Byron O. Crowson

1953 - 2021

FLY CREEK – In the early morning hours of Tuesday, October 12, 2021, Byron O’Neal Crowson passed away unexpectedly. He bravely and optimistically confronted failing health during the past six months. He was a devoted husband and father.

Byron was born on July 4, 1953, in Dayton, Ohio. He was a son of the late Joseph and Beatrice (Hendrickson) Crowson. Byron graduated from Tecumseh High School in New Carlisle, Ohio, received his associate degree in nursing at Sinclair Community College in Dayton, Ohio, and his bachelor'se degree in Nursing at Indiana Wesleyan University. Byron was a dedicated Registered Nurse for more than 40 years and was employed at Ohio State University and at the Dayton VA Hospital, prior to relocating to Fly Creek. It was while he was working as a nursing supervisor that he met his future wife, Joanne Weidel. They were wed on May 5, 2002, in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada.

After relocating to Fly Creek, he took on his new and favorite job as a stay-at-home dad, learning to cook family meals and juggling busy schedules. He took on this role with great dedication and pride. He returned to nursing and was most recently employed at Cooperstown Center, Foltsbrook Center, and Chestnut Park Nursing Home.

Byron is survived by his wife, Joanne, son Grant F.J. Crowson, and daughter Rose Elizabeth Crowson, all of Fly Creek. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Elizabeth Weidel of Glenmont, NY, sister-in-law and brother-in-law Lisa and William Lorman of Amsterdam, NY, sister-in-law and brother-in-law Linda and James Burke of Elkins, WV, sister-in-law and brother-in-law Laura Weidel and James Parker of Ossipee, NH, and brother-in-law James Weidel of Yonkers, and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents and siblings and his father-in-law John Weidel.

Byron was an avid reader and never left home without a book in his hand. He was a history buff and patriotic, enjoying celebrating his birthday on the 4th of July with fireworks every year. He never knew a stranger and, in his memory, take the time to say “hi” to someone you don’t know and maybe even bring up a random topic of your choosing.

His family is grateful and proud that he made his wishes known in advance to be an organ donor, and to have his body donated to The Albany Medical College for medical education and research.

John J. Pohli

1946 - 2021

OTEGO – John J. Pohli, a lifelong area resident, passed away Thursday afternoon, October 7, 2021, at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown. He was 75.

Born June 26, 1946, at the A.O. Fox Memorial Hospital in Oneonta, John was a son of John J. and Margaret (Sorocco) Pohli. After graduating from high school, he attended Mohawk Valley Community College where he earned an associate’s degree in electrical technology. For 30 years he was employed with NYSEG, and retired as an electrical supervisor in 1990.

On September 2, 1966, John married Lillian J. Pearce in Oneonta. They enjoyed living in their log cabin in the countryside of Otego.

At one time, John, who was known to his friends as Jake, was an avid hockey player and enjoyed playing in games throughout the area. Most of all, he loved his family, his country and his home.

John is survived by his wife of 55 years, Lillian, of Otego; their two sons, Michael Pohli and Aaron Pohli and wife, Linda, all of Sidney; and three grandchildren whom he adored, Marley, Killian and Liam. He is further survived by their beloved dog, Gus.

He was predeceased by his parents.

With respect for John’s wishes, there will be no services. Instead, remember your times spent with John, smile, and know that he is at peace.

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

Harry G. Brannigan

1948 - 2021

MILFORD – Harry George Brannigan, age 73, passed away early Thursday morning, October 7, 2021, at his son’s home in Mount Vision following a valiant battle with cancer.

He was born August 3, 1948, in College Point, Queens, a son of the late Harry and Margaret Brannigan.

A veteran of the Vietnam War, Harry enlisted with the United States Army on January 8, 1968, and served in Vietnam with Company B, 9th Engineer Battalion. On January 2, 1971, he received his Honorable Discharge from the military and returned home to Queens.

He met Carol Ann Spunt of Long Island while on a blind date arranged by mutual friends. The two hit it off, and were married May 5, 1973, in her hometown of Huntington on Long Island.

For many years, Harry was employed as a sheet metal worker and machinist for the Stella Corporation in Plainview.

In 1988, Harry and Carol Ann moved upstate to the Town of Milford and Harry became an organic farmer. He truly enjoyed growing vegetables, and sold them for a time at his farm stand, Mountain Top Farm, in Emmons. In his leisure, he enjoyed watching movies, especially National Lampoon’s Vacation and, no matter the time of year, Christmas Vacation.

Harry will be greatly missed by his son, Harry Michael Brannigan and his companion, Julie Smith, of Mt. Vision; one granddaughter, Shannon Brannigan and her fiancé, Edwin Rivera, of Johnstown; a great granddaughter, Ariyunah Jade Rivera; a brother, Patrick Brannigan of Cape Coral, Florida; a sister, Sharon Brannigan of College Point, Queens; and several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his wife of 43 years, Carol Ann Brannigan, who died April 3, 2016; his father, Harry Brannigan, who died April 22, 1987; his mother, Margaret E. Brannigan who died April 28, 2021; and a brother, Fred Brannigan.

Harry will be laid to rest with Military Honors in the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville.

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

Richard F. Smith, Jr.

1943 - 2021

OAKSVILLE – Richard Frederick Smith, Jr., a life-long area resident and long-time employee of Remington Arms, passed away following a lengthy illness Monday afternoon, September 13, 2021, at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown. He was 78.

Born August 21, 1943, at Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown, he was one of four children of Richard Frederick Smith, Sr. and Dorothy Arlene Roseboom Smith. He attended Cooperstown schools and was a member of the Cooperstown High School Class of 1961.

On March 17, 1962, Dick married Patricia Ann Edwards in a ceremony at the Cooperstown Methodist Church, and they went on to enjoy a total of 60 wonderful years together.

Following in the footsteps of his grandfather and father, Dick proudly served his country with the United States Army from 1962 until 1968. Upon receiving his honorable discharge from the military, he returned to the Cooperstown area, and was employed for 34 years with Remington Arms in Ilion, first as a forend sander and then as an inspector.

Throughout his life, Dick enjoyed participating in and watching a variety of sports – he truly loved just about every kind of sport there is! He especially enjoyed playing softball, bowling and golfing, and was an avid fan of the New York Jets, having rooted for them since their beginning as the Titans of New York. Dick’s man cave at his home is a testament to his devotion to his beloved Jets. He also enjoyed his 1951 Ford coupe, and was a long-time active member of the Wanderer’s Car Club. He was also a former member of the Milford American Legion Post No. 1566 and at one time served with the Fly Creek Volunteer Fire Company.

Most especially he will be remembered as being a devoted husband, great dad and a person who was loved by all. He had a wonderful way with everyone he met, and as his children grew, he treated their friends as if they were his own. He will be greatly missed by all those whose lives he touched.

Dick is survived by his wife of 60 years, Patty Smith, of Oaksville; their three children, Richard F. Smith III (Kathy) of Statesville, North Carolina, Pamela Wart (Percy) of Christian Hill and Raymond Smith (Deanna) of Milford; nine grandchildren, Craig, Cheryl, Brad, Chrissy, Sean, Kyle, Ray, Jr., Mason and Katelyn; and nine great grandchildren. He is further survived by two brothers, Ronald Smith (Debbie) of Oppenheim and Charles Smith (Jill) of Cedarville; a sister-in-law, Lois M. Smith of Toddsville; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by a sister, Grace Snyder, who died March 14, 2018, and a brother, Eugene Raymond Smith, Sr., who died October 15, 2017. Sadly and tragically, Dick’s daughter-in-law, Kathy Smith, died just two days after him due to complications from COVID-19.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 25, 2021, beginning at 2 p.m. at Wilber Park in Milford. It is requested by the family that those attending please wear a favorite jersey or t-shirt representing your favorite sports team. At 2:30 p.m., Military Honors will be accorded by members of the Cooperstown Veterans Club.

Eventually he will be laid to rest near his parents in the Fly Creek Valley Cemetery.

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

Sandra Lou Stockdale

COOPERSTOWN – Sandra Lou Stockdale (Sandy) passed away peacefully after a brief illness on Thursday, August 26th, 2021. She was surrounded by her loving family who made certain she was comfortable.

Sandy is survived by her loving husband of 30 years and one day, William Stockdale. She is survived by her children and their spouses: Greg and LisaMarie Morrison, Glenn and Michele Morrison, and Glenda and Matt Vatovec. She is also survived by her loving granddaughters, Emily and Abigail Vatovec and her grandsons Kane Morrison and Brett Morrison. She was predeceased by her daughter, Gretchen Miller, and her first husband, Walter Glen Morrison.

Sandy was a hard-working woman who had her fair share of obstacles to overcome in life. After losing her first husband, Walter Morrison, she became the sole caregiver to her four children. With very little means and not having had a job to date, Sandra picked herself up and took charge of getting things in order. She got her first car, worked hard to find several jobs to make ends meet, and still managed to care for her four young children. There were many tough times. One of Sandra’s favorite stories to tell is finding her family low on funds, and needing to feed her family, she was able to find 5 dollars with the help of her eldest son, Greg, and she purchased hot dogs and macaroni and cheese with which she built a meal for her children. That was just the kind of person she was, she could make a full meal out of very little.

Sandy met the love of her life, William Stockdale, in 1988. They were wed on August 25th of 1991 in a beautiful ceremony in Mount Vision. Sandy and Bill were inseparable. They met and worked together at the Clark Sports Center. They shared several hobbies including fishing, playing cards, and watching westerns. The best parts of her day were spent with her husband, in fact, when Bill worked the overnight hours, she would stay on his schedule, so that they could sleep during the same hours and be with each other as much as possible. They loved sitting for long hours, holding hands and talking. They had a love that was tender and patient. Bill was Sandy’s primary caregiver in the last years of her life, and he worked tirelessly to meet all her needs.

Sandy had a deep love for her children. She always looked forward to receiving a phone call from them, even if they had nothing much to talk about. Many conversations would be spent reminiscing about the past, talking about the weather, and of course, a check-in to make sure everyone was okay. Sandy always called her children and left the same voicemail, “Hi honey, it’s mama, love you.” She also deeply loved her grandchildren and enjoyed hearing their stories about school and the books they were reading.

Sandy will be deeply missed by all those who knew her and loved her. She expressed her wishes for flowers in the final hours of her life. Her services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, September 25th at the Fly Creek Valley Cemetery under the care of Connell, Dow and Deysenroth. Her services will be officiated by Pastor Matthew Marlow. A remembrance celebration will be held in Sandy’s honor at 318 Bice Road in Cooperstown after the services. In lieu of flowers, you may make donations in honor of Sandra Stockdale’s memory to the Cherry Valley Emergency Squad or Springfield First Responders.