Patrick F. “Tex” Gorden, Jr.

1948 - 2022

MARYLAND – Patrick F. “Tex” Gorden, Jr., who served for many years as a locomotive engineer for The Cooperstown and Charlotte Valley Railroad, passed away early Tuesday morning, December 13, 2022, at Strong Memorial Hospital at the University of Rochester Medical Center, following a valiant battle with cancer. He was 74.

Born December 2, 1948, at home on South Delaware Street in the Village of Stamford, Tex – as he was known by so many – was the son of Patrick F. and Anna (Kardokas) Gorden. 

A graduate of St. Stanislaus Kostka School in Brooklyn, Tex later attended Texas Tech University and earned a bachelor’s degree in metallurgy and aeronautics. 
Tex proudly served his country in both the United States Army and the Air National Guard. On April 11, 1967, he enlisted in the US Army and served overseas with A Battery, 7th Battalion, 18th Artillery. Sgt. Gorden was later transferred to and served with the US Army Reserves until April 10, 1973. On January 11, 1977, he enlisted with the Air National Guard of Massachusetts and honorably served until October 4, 1978.

For 24 years, Tex worked as a locomotive engineer with The Cooperstown and Charlotte Valley Railroad based in Milford. In the early 1990s, he met Denna J. Harris at The Bold Dragoon in Cooperstown. The two enjoyed their love for the railroad, and were married May 19, 2000, in the Freight House of the railroad in Milford. Together they served the railroad, with Tex also sitting as a member of the Board of Directors of The Leatherstocking Railway Historical Society and the Leatherstocking Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society. Tex also enjoyed racing cars, and last drove car #36 with the Mohawk Valley Vintage Dirt Modified Series. 

Tex is survived by his wife of 22 years, Denna J. Gorden of Maryland; his older sister, Geraldine Dwarica (Len) of North Guilford, Connecticut, and three nephews. He is further survived by his wife’s siblings and their families: Donna Kemp (Steve) of LaCrosse, Wisconsin, Darlene Bennett (Walter “Wick”) of Vero Beach, Florida, Janet Snyder (Jack) of Fly Creek, Martha Harris of Cooperstown, Margaret Hunt (Dale) of Gilbertsville, John Harris (Karen) of Milford, Andrew Harris (Karen) of Erhard, Minnesota, sister-in-law, Jean Harris of Middlefield, and many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. 

Along with his parents, he was predeceased by his father-in-law, William J. Harris (September 10, 1997); his mother-in-law, Barbara C. Harris (March 7, 2020); and two brothers-in-law, Thomas Michael Harris (June 13, 2012) and Joseph Harris (May 25, 2021). 

Interment will be in the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville. 

As a way to honor Tex’s memory, memorial donations may be made to the Cooperstown and Charlotte Valley Railroad, 136 East Main Street, Milford, NY 13807 or 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. 


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

Richard R. Card

1949 - 2022

HARTWICK – Richard R. Card, 73, of Hartwick, passed away December 2, 2022, at his home surrounded by his loved ones after a long battle with cancer. 

Richard was born on August 22, 1949, the son of Mildred and Garieth Card. 

Richard was predeceased by his parents, three brothers, one sister and one brother-in-law. 

Richard retired from SUNY Oneonta of almost 30 years along with retiring from Milford Central School after that. 

Richard was loved and cherished by his family. He is survived by his wife, Marion Card, four children, Tina and Tom Olivera, Raymond Clapper, Vickie and Perry Maraglio, and Rickie and Corlissa Card, along with 10 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren, 3 sisters and 3 sisters-in-law. 

Richard was a private man who loved his family and his animals. He was a fan of Elvis and enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping.

To honor Richard’s memory, we are holding a celebration of his life from 1-4 p.m. on Sunday, December 11, 2022, at Creek Side Station, located at 3193 State Highway 205, Hartwick. We invite everyone who knew him to attend and remember his wonderful life. 



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

Mary J. Hoose

1931 - 2022

PORTLANDVILLE – Mary J. Hoose, of Portlandville, passed away Monday morning, November 21, 2022, at Cooperstown Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing. She was 91.

Born at home in Hartwick on October 27, 1931, Mary was one of five children of J. Paul and Elenor (Bradley) Jones. Raised on her family farm in Hartwick, she graduated from Hartwick High School with the Class of 1949.

At a local dance, Mary met Cecil E. Hoose, a native of Mount Vision, and on August 5, 1951, they were married in a ceremony at the Hartwick Methodist Episcopal Church. Mary then devoted her life to raising and caring for her family and home, as well as helping her husband own and operate Ce-Ran Farm in Mount Vision, which the Hoose family owned for four generations, starting in 1850. She worked with her husband in a typical dairy farmer’s wife role – helping in the barn and feeding the animals, the family and the hired man. They had a milking herd of 80-85 cows, plus an equal number of young stock. For several years they also had chickens, which they purchased as chicks and raised to “broiler” stage. A few years ago, she noted that, “It was a lot of work, but it was a good life and a good place to raise children.” They retired from farming in 1981, and moved to a home on the Susquehanna River in Portlandville in 1992. In retirement, Mary and Cecil travelled to Las Vegas, Missouri and other places visiting relatives. They took two cruises and spent several winters in Florida. They also enjoyed owning several vintage automobiles, including a 1927 REO pickup truck, and were active with the REO Club of America. Following Cecil’s death in 2003, she continued living in Portlandville until moving to The Heritage at The Plains at Parish Homestead in Oneonta in 2018. Since August of this year she has resided at Cooperstown Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing. 

Mary was a 73-year dedicated and well-loved member of the Order of the Eastern Star. At the age of 18 she joined Hartwick Chapter No. 617, OES, which met in the former Odd Fellows Hall on South Street in Hartwick. When that Chapter consolidated in 1983 with Otsego Chapter No. 201, OES, in Cooperstown, she joined Laurens-Freedom Chapter No. 518, OES but was always special in the hearts of the members of Otsego-Hartwick-Arbutus Chapter No. 201, OES. She was also a member of the former Mount Vision United Methodist Church, the Susquehanna Valley Senior Citizens, and the Ladies Auxiliary of the Mount Vision Fire Department. 

Most especially, Mary loved doing things with her family. She is survived by two children, son Randall “Randy” S. Hoose and wife, Judy of Pierstown, and daughter Priscilla Kaye Osterhoudt and husband, Darrell of Kimberling City, Missouri; five grandchildren, Randall S. Hoose, Jr. and wife, Katherine, Samantha Roman and husband, Ryan, Dana Ledbetter and husband, Joshua, Will Dennis and wife, Ashley Rowley, and Megan Dennis and partner Brandon Shaffner ; six great grandchildren, Margaret and Cecilia Hoose, Erin Roman, Shiloh and Skyler Ledbetter and Riley Dennis; and many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband of 52 years, Cecil E. Hoose, who died November 11, 2003; two brothers, Robert D. and Donald A. Jones; and two sisters, Anna Cassada and Catherine L. Garvin.

Friends may call and pay their respects from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. Saturday, December 3, 2022, at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown. At 1 p.m., members of Laurens-Freedom Chapter No. 518 and Otsego-Hartwick-Arbutus Chapter No. 201 will conduct the Eastern Star Funeral Service at the funeral home. Immediately following, a Funeral Service will be offered at the Funeral Home with the Rev. James Crouthamel officiating.

Interment will be in Mount Vision Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Laurens-Freedom Chapter No. 518, OES in care of Deborah Trask, Worthy Matron, 3369 State Highway 23, West Oneonta, NY 13861, or Otsego-Hartwick-Arbutus Chapter No. 201, OES, in care of Cooperstown Masonic Temple, 77 Main Street, Cooperstown, NY 13326

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


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

Dwaine R. Sharratt

1955 - 2022

HARTWICK – Dwaine R. Sharratt, who owned and operated Beaver Valley Campground with his wife, Juli, and their children, passed away Saturday morning, November 19, 2022, at his home in the Town of Hartwick from the neurodegenerative disorder Multiple System Atrophy. At the age of 67, he has now completed the final pages of the book of his life. 

Born October 6, 1955, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Dwaine was the son of Lloyd Donald Sharratt and Veronica “Ronnie” Louise (Justin) Sharratt. 

He was raised in Richfield, Minnesota, and graduated from Richfield High School in 1974. He captained his high school gymnastics team, played football from peewee through high school, and played baseball from tee-ball well into adulthood.

He attended Stout University in Wisconsin and then lived in Mississippi helping with his sister’s young family and farm while his brother-in-law was ill. He then moved to Washington State where he learned the skills of home construction and hobby farming while volunteering with children who had physical and learning disabilities. In Washington, he met his future wife, Juli, who asked him for a ride
to Massachusetts. They arrived there in the summer of 1980 and Dwaine and Juli married in August 1983.

In 1988, they purchased Beaver Valley Campground and developed it into a highly-rated family memory-maker. He took great pleasure in maintaining and developing the campground. In 1991, they started Cooperstown Baseball Camp, an overnight training camp for kids.

Dwaine especially loved taking care of his baseball fields and would often be found prepping the fields with detail and love between games. His fondness for the game, and his encouragement of younger players, was evident when he donated the use of the Little League field at the campground to Cooperstown Youth Baseball when they found themselves with no place to play after their home field was closed.

Each spring for 20 years, Dwaine was the clean-shaven Mr. Sharratt who helped
teach gymnastics at the Clark Sports Center. Each winter he was the full-bearded, wild-haired Dad at Badger Park playing hockey with the kids.

Dwaine was definitely a “road less traveled” kind of person. He was full of antics and imagination and would do just about anything to make someone laugh. 

Dwaine was a relentless doer and a heartfelt giver. Whether it was bringing his generator around to local farms and homes when they lost power during the tornado in the 1990s or clearing a friend’s sewer line from the septic tank end, he was not afraid to get dirty or to work long hours.

Above all, Dwaine was in love with his family. 

Dwaine is survived by his wife of 39 years, Juli (Kaczynski) of Hartwick, and their four children, Nathan Sharratt and wife, Mona Collentine of Marietta, Georgia, Caley Sharratt and husband, Tristan (Davis-Fralick) Sharratt, Jamie (Sharratt) Dobrovolc and wife, Allison Dobrovolc, and Nicholas Sharratt, all of Hartwick. He leaves three grandchildren, Elsie, Westley and Wren, and his siblings, Michael Sharratt and Kat Kitt, Chip Sharratt and wife, Julie Kelley, Kenneth Sharratt and wife, Christine, Yvonne Stelberg, and brother-in-law, Duane Christopher, all of Minnesota; his best friend since the age of 7, Mitchell Hayle of Vermont; and several nieces and nephews. 

He was predeceased by his father, Lloyd, who died in 2001, his mother, Ronnie, who died in 2004, and his sister, Sharon Christopher, who died in 2021. 

Family and friends may call and pay their respects from 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, November 30, 2022, at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated at 11 a.m. Thursday, December 1, 2022, at St. Mary’s “Our Lady of the Lake” Roman Catholic Church, 31 Elm Street, Cooperstown, with Fr. Michael Cambi, pastor, officiating. 

Immediately following the Mass, there will be a luncheon at The Farmers’s Museum in Cooperstown. All friends and family are invited. 

Interment will be at a later date in Lakewood Cemetery, Cooperstown. 

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in the form of memorial donations may be made to a charity of your choice. 

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.

Lois Ann Garvey

1936 - 2022

SANTA MARIA, CALIFORNIA 

Lois Ann Garvey passed away in Santa Maria, California, on November 12, 2022. She was born in Cooperstown, New York, on March 7, 1936, to Neil and Thelma Garvey. In 1945 the family moved to Nevada. She graduated from Mineral County High School in Hawthorn, Nevada, in 1954. 

In 1957 Lois moved to Oakland, California, where she went to nursing school and went on to work at Providence Hospital for 37 years. In 1977 she moved to Union City, California, where she lived with her mother until her mother passed away in 2001. Lois was very involved with her church, volunteering at their food bank and also served on her homeowner’s association board of directors. In 2016 she moved to Santa Maria, California, where she lived until her death. 

Lois will be interred in Springfield Cemetery in Springfield Center, New York, beside her mother and twin brother, Lawrence, who died in 2003. She is survived by her brother Gordon and his wife Janet of Nipomo, California. 

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


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

James Andrews Melrose Johnston

1953 - 2022

James Andrews Melrose Johnston, Jamie to family and friends, crossed the bar on November 14, 2022, following a prolonged battle with multiple ailments. He was 68.
 
Born on December 20, 1953, in New Haven, CT, into a family of educators, naturalists, poets, historians, sailors and adventurers, Jamie never missed an opportunity to gleefully embrace novel experiences, such as when, as a toddler, he astonished his mother when she removed his rain hat in a New Haven store only to find a mouse cheerfully nestling in his hair.

Jamie with his pet crow, Poe.

Jamie started out at the Foote School in New Haven, CT, and then graduated from Pine Point School in Stonington, CT, during which time he befriended and was mentored by Roger Tory Peterson. Jamie went on to Berkshire School in Sheffield, MA, and the University of Maine, where he made lifelong friends and graduated with a degree in Wildlife Management. He then joined fellow ornithologist Tom Lovejoy to study birds in Brazil, braved the hostile pecks of ospreys along the coast of Maine as he climbed up to their nests to detect pesticides and band them, and later led “Kids in Creeks” programs in Tennessee and Maryland to promote the health and beauty of their natural habitats. Making friends wherever he went, Jamie and his spirited dog of the moment cheerfully accepted invitations to “camp” on their porches or assault their coffee pots, even when there was no one at home.

Jamie banding an inquisitive osprey.

In between these projects, Jamie taught biology at secondary schools from Connecticut to Texas and enjoyed a stint at The American School in Switzerland (TASIS), which afforded him time for rollicking bicycle rides in the Alps, Great Britain and Europe. On one occasion, Jamie warned Odie, his boisterous student companion, to descend a Scottish mountain with caution as there was a treacherous turn at the bottom. Defying this advice, Odie was found later deeply lodged, but unscathed, in a sheep shed, admitting that ignoring Jamie’s counsel could be perilous to one’s welfare.
 
Jamie also continued his family fascination with the sea. One of his earliest experiences was on a voyage through the Baltic Sea and the Göta kanal, when his family unwittingly left the little ten-year-old on the dock in Gothenburg Harbor, only to discover his absence when they couldn’t find him at lunchtime. Later in his life he plied the New England and mid-Atlantic coastlines in his traditional wooden sailboats, accompanied by his loyal dog of the day and, often, many friends in the Wooden Boat Forum. No fiberglass for these gifted folks, for whom unforgiving, intensive and never-ending boat repair is an integral aspect of sailing life.
 
In a word, Jamie was simply multi-dimensional and, like a whack-a-mole, incapable of settling comfortably into any confining niche for very long. He was always devoted to his family, friends and dogs, ever cheerful and gregarious, ever fascinated by family genealogy and lore, and comfortable both among friends and alone, when he reveled in a quiet life interrupted only by the humming of his bees.
 
Jamie is predeceased by his parents, Waldo C.M. and Elinor Doolittle Johnston. He leaves his siblings, Waldo C.M. Johnston, jr., Elinor J. Vincent and Carol J. Galpin and their spouses, five nieces and nephews and 11 grandnieces and -nephews, all of whom will greatly miss his reflections, advice, arguments, anecdotes, knowledge, support and creativity.
 
Jamie’s family is especially grateful for the comfort extended to their brother during his final weeks, especially by Robbie Clark, George Holden, Lang Keith, Jane Clark, Chip Northrup, Henry and Rebecca Weil, Harry and Ellen Levine and the Wooden Boat Forum. 

There will be a private internment at Lakewood Cemetery in December and a jubilant celebration of Jamie’s life up on the hill next summer. Donations may be made in memory of Jamie to Nova Scotia Heritage Schooner Rescue Society (schoonerrescue.org), where Jamie’s schooner Airlie is undergoing restoration, and the Susquehanna SPCA, 5082-5088 State Highway 28, Cooperstown, NY 13326 (sqspca.org).


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

Elizabeth Ann Timm

1960 - 2022

VENICE, FL – Elizabeth Ann Timm, 62, mother of four and loving wife to Edward Timm passed away the morning of November 9, 2022.

Elizabeth was born in 1960 in Cooperstown, New York, and grew up alongside her two brothers Michael and David and her loving parents Delores Willsey and the late David Willsey.

Elizabeth dedicated her life to the practice of nursing, where she aided and assisted patients with the extraordinary care and kindness that she shared with all who knew her.

She is survived by her husband, Edward, and four children, Lucas, Matthew, Zachary, and Ian who loved and cherished their mother greatly. Elizabeth recently became a grandmother and enjoyed spending as much time as possible with her close family and friends. She will be remembered by those who knew her as a warm, fun loving, selfless, gentle, and outgoing person whose sense of humor and kindness left a mark on everyone she met. She will be greatly missed and remembered fondly by many.

A service will be offered at 10 a.m. Tuesday, November 22, 2022, at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown, with Fr. Michael Cambi, pastor of St. Mary’s “Our Lady of the Lake” Roman Catholic Church in Cooperstown officiating. Interment will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Index. 


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.

Janet M. Bunt

1949 - 2022

HARTWICK – Janet M. Bunt, who was born in Delaware County and lived her life in Otsego County, passed away Tuesday afternoon, November 8, 2022, at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown. She was 73. 

Born April 21, 1949, in Walton, Janet was one of six children of Ernest Edwin Sprague and Janet Marion (Sprague) McNorton. 

For over thirty years she was employed at Astrocom Electronics, Inc. in Oneonta. 

Janet Bunt was a caring woman who loved her children and family. She enjoyed life and the outdoors, often participating in activities such as camping, boating, snowmobiling and gardening. Janet had a particular love of wildflowers. In her spare time, she found entertainment in classic and western movies, especially when the character Josey Wales was on screen. She also perked up whenever a Loretta Lynn song came over the radio. 

In her younger years she took pleasure in sewing, which developed into a love of crafts and needlepoint. Her talent in these areas was even used later in her life to lovingly hand-sew clothes for her children. During this same period of her life, you would often find Janet reading love novels after dinner and late into the night. As time went on, if you happened to catch her passing the time, you would see her trying to complete a jigsaw puzzle or solving crossword books. 

Janet is survived by her son, Brian K. Michaels and wife, Judith “Judy” of Hardy, Virginia; her daughter, Brenda Silas and husband, Vincent of Mebane, North Carolina; three granddaughters, Brittany Caruso, Candice Caruso and Kayla Michaels; the father of her children, ex-husband Wayne Michaels of Mt. Vision; three sisters, Joyce Budine and husband, Jake of New Berlin, Priscilla “Perk” Sprague of Little River, South Carolina and Donna McCarthy of Oneonta; and many nieces and nephews. 

She was predeceased by her husband of 18 years, Arthur J. “Ozzie” Bunt who died June 11, 2009; her father, Ernest Edwin Sprague; her mother, Janet McNorton; a son-in-law, Timothy L. Caruso; and two brothers, Gary “Chico” Sprague and Ernest Sprague.

Janet’s family will receive friends from 4-6 p.m. Saturday, November 19, 2022, at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown. 

The service of committal and interment will be private in Hartwick Cemetery. 

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.

Georgia Goodspeed

1943 - 2022

COOPERSTOWN - Georgia Goodspeed, a long-time resident of Cooperstown, died early Tuesday morning, November 1, 2022, at Albany Medical Center with the comfort of her loving family by her side and is now with God and her true love, Jerry. She was 78.

Born November 18, 1943, at the Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown, Georgia was one of three children of the late Elizabeth Downes and George Flint.

In her youth, her father worked on many farms in the area, so Georgia attended several schools throughout Otsego and Delaware Counties. She eventually attended Cooperstown Central School and graduated with the Class of 1962.

That same year, she married Jerry “Boo-Boo” Goodspeed in a ceremony held October 6th in the Cooperstown Methodist Church. 

For over twenty years, Georgia was employed as a maid at The Otesaga. She later worked at Bassett Hospital in their housekeeping department. 

In her leisure, Georgia enjoyed having a good time with family and friends. An avid fan of NASCAR, she also enjoyed gardening, cooking and baking, embroidery and was well-known for her spaghetti, mac and cheese, baked beans, cookies and pies. Her family looked forward to her making their favorite dessert for their birthdays and her Christmas sweets. She also had a lot of fun decorating her home in Toddsville for the various holidays, most especially Halloween, Christmas and Easter. She enjoyed travelling with Jerry, having their camper in tow, visiting loved ones, attending many races rooting for Mark Martin, and collecting spoons along the way. They enjoyed a trip to Alaska, and visiting Mt. Rushmore and Alcatarz were other travel highlights. Annual Labor Day weekend celebrations at their Ponderosa, where she was the official corn hole tournament scorekeeper chief of chiefs and proudly received the first Boo-Boo Memorial Good Sport Award, will be fondly remembered. She was always the number one fan and supporter for family member’s sports and activities. She loved attending and cheering at quad races and rode in the local parades honoring Jerry and veterans. 

She was happiest when surrounded by her family, especially her cherished grandchildren, great grandchildren and grand fur babies. She was a devoted wife and mother, grandmother and “GG.” Her smile and sense of humor will be greatly missed by family and friends. They enjoyed special memories playing board and card games, learning later in life that had followed “GG’s Rules.” 

Georgia is survived by three daughters, Betty Steele and husband, Tom, of Hartwick, Sue Gage of Edmeston, and Sherri Goodspeed and fiancé, Gordie Marshall of Fly Creek; three grandchildren, Jimmy Goodspeed, Michael Gage and wife, Michele, and Jessica Talbot and husband, Mikey; and three great grandchildren, Lily Luna Musgrave-Goodspeed, Breona Hope Talbot and Rylan David Talbot; and her faithful and beloved kitty, Cuddles. She is further survived by a brother, Frank Flint. 

She was preceded in death by her husband of 51½ years, the love of her life, Jerry; her parents; a sister, Catherine Williams; and precious cat, Midnight. 

In accordance with Georgia’s wishes, there will be no visitation or services. She will be privately laid to rest with Jerry in Hartwick Cemetery. 

The Goodspeed family respectfully requests that memorial donations be directed to 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.


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

Edward S. Weidner, Sr. – better known as “Opa”

1944 - 2022

COOPERSTOWN – Edward S. Weidner, Sr., 78, of Cooperstown, passed away early Saturday morning, October 29, 2022, at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown. 

He was born January 20, 1944, in Queens, the son of Edward J. and Louise (Plucinski) Weidner. 

He married Linda C. Leary in 1963, in St. James on Long Island. 

When Ed and Linda relocated to Cooperstown in 1971, Ed began his roofing and siding business. He also purchased Curcio’s Grocery, later renamed Weidner’s Grocery which was in existence until Great American came to Cooperstown. 

Ed loved his three children; however, when his grandchildren and great grandchildren arrived, they took center stage!

Ed could be found always wearing his children’s and grandchildren’s college spirit apparel as he cheered them on from the sidelines. 

Of all his accomplishments, his most proud achievement in life was marrying his wife, Linda, who supported him in all his glory during his heyday and lovingly tended to him physically during their last days together. 

He knew the value of a hard day’s work which he instilled in his children. 

He was self-proclaimed as “the only man that could by hand, out nail a nail gun.”

Ed loved the NY Jets and held out hope that would someday win another Superbowl. 

He loved keeping his grass beautifully manicured even if it meant mowing six days a week. “If you’re not cutting it on the diagonal and rotate each time, all you’re doing is knocking it down.”

He was a rare combination of someone who had a love of family and a firm understanding for what was important in life. 

Ed is survived by his wife, Linda, of 59 years, Cooperstown; his daughter Linda Flynn of Cooperstown and her two children Jennifer Flynn and Jeffrey Flynn (Jaclyn) and their children Reagan and Ryder of Cooperstown; his daughter Christine Reilly (Kevin) of Hammdondsport and their two children Sean Reilly (Kylie) and Katie Reilly (Dylan) and their daughter, Averie; and his son Edward S. Weidner, Jr. (Erin) of Pleasant Valley and their children Ashlyn, Jack and Terence. He is further survived by his sister, Maryann Clyne (James) of Massachusetts, his brother, Jerry Weidner (Debra) of Medford, and several much loved nieces and nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother George Weidner and his sister, Louise Contursi. 

The family will receive friends from 10 a.m. until 12 Noon on Thursday, November 3, 2022, at St. Mary’s “Our Lady of the Lake” Roman Catholic Church, 31 Elm Street, Cooperstown. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12 Noon on Thursday 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 be at the convenience of the family at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations to be made to 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. 


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.

Philip L. Washburn, Esq.

1940 - 2022

COOPERSTOWN – Philip L. Washburn, Esq., a long-time resident of Cooperstown and well-respected attorney, passed away peacefully Saturday afternoon, October 22, 2022, at HarborChase of Prince William Commons in Woodbridge, Virginia, with family at his side. He was 81. 

Born November 14, 1940, in Gouverneur, Phil was a son of Leonard Bacon Washburn and Marguerite (Halpin) Washburn. After graduating from Gouverneur High School in 1958, Phil attended Harpur College, now known as Binghamton University. In 1960 he left college to enlist in the United States Army, and honorably served his country while stationed at a base in Sinop, Turkey. Upon receiving his honorable discharge from the military in 1963, he returned to college life and attended Tulane University Law School. It was there that he met Pamela Waits, and they were married August 20, 1966, in a ceremony at Lake Vista United Methodist Church in New Orleans, Louisiana. 

After graduating from law school, Phil practiced law for the next two years in Syracuse. After searching for a nice small community in which to practice law, Phil and Pam settled on Cooperstown, and in 1970 moved into their home on Elm Street. He first worked with Scott E. Greene, Esq. and then went off on his own for four years. He then joined the law firm of Van Horne, Feury and Gozigian, which later became Feury, Gozigian and Washburn and is now Gozigian, Washburn and Clinton. 

Through the years Phil served as the attorney for the Village of Cooperstown, as an Assistant District Attorney, and was a member of the Otsego County and New York State Bar Associations. He was also a former member and past president of the Cooperstown Rotary Club, a subscriber at The Leatherstocking Golf Course and a member of The Mohican Club. 

Phil is survived by his wife of 56 years, Pam Washburn of Cooperstown; two sons, Matthew P. Washburn of Alexandria, Virginia, and John W. Washburn of Cooperstown; a grandson, Alexander M. Washburn; and a sister, Kathleen Fuller of Gouverneur. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Richard Washburn. 

At Phil’s request there will be no services. He will be privately laid to rest in The Columbarium in the cemetery of The First Presbyterian Church of Cooperstown. 

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.

Terry W. Onyan

1957 - 2022

COOPERSTOWN – Terry W. Onyan, a long-time Cooperstown and Fly Creek resident, passed away due to recent health issues late Saturday afternoon, October 15, 2022, at his home in Fly Creek with his loving wife, Wendy at his side.
 
Born July 5, 1957, in Norwich, Terry was the son of Hobart and Norma (Rothwell) Onyan. As a young boy, Terry and his family moved to Cooperstown where he graduated from Cooperstown Central School with the Class of 1976. 

During his high school years Terry started working at Smith Ford, where he continued as a dedicated employee until his retirement on February 25, 2022. He was truly a fixture at the dealership. 

He enjoyed racing and working on his race car, riding motorcycles, and especially loved driving his vintage red 1969 Ford Mustang. 

Terry will be greatly missed by his family and all those whose lives he touched. 

Terry met the love of his life, Wendy A. Fink 29 years ago, and they married on October 31, 1998, in Cooperstown. They enjoyed their years together and especially liked travelling to warm weather destinations, including being snow-birds in Vero Beach, Florida last year. 

In addition to his wife, Wendy, Terry is survived by his mother, Norma Onyan of Cooperstown; a son, Joshua Onyan and granddaughters Gillian and Addison of Yuma, Arizona; a daughter, Amanda Swatling of Oneonta; a sister, Louise Wayman of Toddsville; and a brother, Gregory Onyan of Fly Creek. He is further survived by his mother-in-law, Suzanne C. Fink, brother-in-law, Michael S. Fink and wife, Lori, and sister-in-law, Kelly L. Banner and husband, Bruce; nieces and nephews Zach, Whitney, Jesse, Jacqueline, Garrett and JoAnna; and many aunts, uncles and cousins. 

He was preceded in death by his father-in-law, Stewart L. Fink, who he referred to as “Pops”;  step-father, Edward C. Smith; a brother, Bradley L. Onyan; and a niece, Christina Anne Wayman Selan. 

Family and friends may pay their respects from 4-6 p.m. Saturday, October 22, 2022, at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown. A service will be offered at 6 p.m. at the funeral home, with the Rev. Dr. Jason Cashing, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Cooperstown, officiating. 
Immediately following the service all are welcome to gather at the Cooperstown Veterans Club on Main Street for refreshments and a celebration of Terry. 

As an alternative to flowers, memorial donations may be directed to the Susquehanna SPCA, 5082-5088 State Highway 28, Cooperstown, NY  13326, or the Fly Creek Volunteer Fire Company, PO Box 218, Fly Creek, NY  13337. 

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.

Bruce D. Andrews

1956 - 2022

SCHUYLER LAKE – Bruce D. Andrews, born in Cooperstown on December 1, 1956, died unexpectedly on October 1, 2022. 

He was the son of Margaret (Marge) and Arthur Andrews, of Fly Creek. In his youth and throughout his high school years, Bruce was a proud member of the Boy Scouts of America in the Cooperstown and Fly Creek areas and earned all 21 of the Merit Badges required for his Eagle Scout Award. 

He graduated from Cooperstown Central School in 1974, SUNY Cobleskill in 1976, attended Michigan Tech in 1977 and graduated with a BS degree in Wildlife Services from The University of Wisconsin, Stevens Point in 1978. After college Bruce worked for the Fish and Wildlife Service in Madison, Wisconsin, and Benson, Minnesota. In 1981, he returned home and began work at Herkimer County BOCES.  During the summer months, he worked at Baseball Nostalgia (BBN), a memorabilia shop in Cooperstown.  In 1990, he left BOCES and began working as the full-time manager at BBN.   

That same year he married Sue Clapperton on May 11.  They lived in Schuyler Lake, where they enjoyed a wonderful life together. 

Bruce was very active in the local community. He served as President of the Exeter Historical Association and President of the Fly Creek Valley Cemetery Association.  He coached football, basketball, track, baseball and volleyball at several of the local area high schools over the years.  He truly enjoyed working within the athletic programs and with the students.  In 1992 he was named The Daily Star High School Football Coach of the Year, and in recognition of his outstanding service and dedication to the youth of Cooperstown and the surrounding area, especially in sports, Bruce was the recipient in 2011 of the 19th Patrick G. Fetterman Award.  

He also loved listening to singer/songwriters.  So much so, that in 1997, he and Sue began presenting them in their home through their House Concert Series.  They continued this for the next 25 years, having a concert just a week prior to his death.   

He had a passion for his dogs.  He always had at least one dog, usually two dogs and on occasion three dogs in his home.  Chesapeake Bay Retrievers and English Springer Spaniels would always greet you when you entered the Andrews home in Schuyler Lake.   

He and Sue enjoyed travelling, especially to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, a place Bruce fell in love with during his time at Michigan Tech.  Bruce also loved his trip to Ireland.  It was a music tour with a singer/songwriter friend as the host.  It was a trip of a lifetime that Bruce talked about to anyone who would listen. 

Bruce had many accomplishments throughout his life and meant so much to the community. He made a lasting impression on everyone he met and would never hesitate to lend a hand to anyone who needed one. He will be truly missed by all those whose lives he touched.  

Bruce is survived by his wife of 32 years, Sue; a brother James (Nicki), a nephew, Clayton (Ashley), a niece, Maria, and one grandniece, Kimberly. 

A visitation will be held from 3-6 p.m. Thursday, October 13, 2022, at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown.  

A service in celebration of Bruce’s life will be offered at 11 a.m. Friday, October 14, 2022, at the Fly Creek United Methodist Church with the Rev. Sharon Rankins-Burd, pastor, officiating.  

Burial will be private in the Adams Cemetery in Fork Shop.  

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Fly Creek Valley Cemetery Association, PO Box 93, Fly Creek, NY  13337, The Schuyler Lake Fire Department, 1490 County Highway 22, Schuyler Lake, NY  13457, or The Schuyler Lake United Methodist Church Food Pantry, PO Box 102, Schuyler Lake, NY 13457. 

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


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

John Poole Briggs

1937 - 2022

COOPERSTOWN – John Poole Briggs, 85, died peacefully at his home in Ormond Beach, Florida, on September 16, 2022, with his fiancé at his side. 

He was born on August 9, 1937, to Harold John Poole and Edna Martha (Fredericks) Briggs of Northport. As a young boy he spent summers on his father’s boat the “Silver Fox” where he developed a love for the ocean.  A businessman at heart, John would sell batteries and T.V. tubes to fishermen and boaters on the dock in Northport.  At 15, he opened his first T.V. repair shop behind the Midway, a newspaper & soda shop. He then proceeded to help his lifelong friend, Elsa Posey, who was also 15, open her school of dance. In 1954, he drove his 1934 wood-side Ford across country to Alaska. After his funds were exhausted, he returned home. The young businessman continued with his T.V. repair business as he rented a shop on Main Street in Northport. One lesson he would reflect on often was when his father borrowed $1,000.00 from him and used it as down payment to purchase a building for the business.  His father’s opinion was, in business, if you have to make payments, “it is better to own than rent.”  In 1958 he began his service in the Army, where he served as a wireman specialist for 3 years. He was discharged from the Ready Reserve in 1965 and was awarded the Good Conduct Medal. John married and, in 1967, moved his family to Hartwick, where he continued his T.V. business while opening the Cooperstown Tent and Trailer Campground.  Later, he built and opened the Hartwick Heights Mobile Home Park and the Lollypop Farm & Petting Zoo.  Also, during those years, he studied organ at Hartwick College with Dr. Claire Coci, built an entire pipe organ in his living room, and married Jeanne Norman-Briggs.  He was an avid gardener, loved to listen to music, and enjoyed talking and meeting new friends. He was life member of the NRA, American Legion and a 29-year member of Otsego Lodge No. 138, Free & Accepted Masons in Cooperstown.   After his retirement in 2012, John returned to the ocean. He spent his last years in Florida camping, riding a trike, sightseeing (ship museums), walking on the beach, and playing with his dogs. 

John is predeceased by his wife Jeanne Norman-Briggs, father Harold Briggs, mother, Edna Fredericks-Briggs, brother Robert Harold Briggs and niece Andrea Beams.

John is survived by his partner and fiancé Rebekah Mead; his son Christopher John Briggs (Tamara) and their four children, Caitlin, Noah, Joshua and Andrew Briggs; his daughter, Anita Jean Briggs Jones (Lyle Jones) and his step-grandchildren Victor, Brent and Shane and their respective significant others and families. 

He leaves behind many first cousins, Gail Fredericks-Latchford, David Fredericks, Dick Fredericks, Doug Fredericks and many nephews and nieces. 

John had an infectious smile and was an inspiration to many people.  Through his works, many lifelong friendships were forged.  He was loved by many and will be deeply missed.

Family and friends may call and pay their respects from 3 p.m. until 5 p.m. on Saturday, October 15, 2022, at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown. At 5 p.m. a Masonic Memorial Service will be conducted by Brothers of Otsego Lodge No. 138, F. & A.M., Cooperstown. Following this, prepared remarks will be presented by family members. Military Honors will then be accorded by members of the Cooperstown Veterans Club and the New York State Military Forces Honor Guard. 

Following the visitation and services, there will be a Celebration of Life at the Hartwick Rod and Gun Club, Rod & Gun Club Road, Hartwick.

In lieu of flowers, John’s family would appreciate memorial donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, P.O. Box 1000, Dept. 142, Memphis, TN 38146 or Boys Town, P.O. Box 6000, Boys Town, NE  68010,  or The National Rifle Association of America, 11250 Waples Mill Road, Fairfax, VA  22030. 

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


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

Mary Teresa Leary

1927 - 2022

COOPERSTOWN – Mary Teresa Leary, 94, resident of Monroe County, was taken by the Lord on Sunday, August 28, 2022, in Rochester. 

Mary was born on December 31, 1927, in Niagara Falls to Joseph David and Agnes Gertrude Maher. 

Mary graduated from Nazareth College of Rochester with a nursing degree and worked as a nurse. She married Dr. Herbert J. Leary in Lyons Falls in 1952, and after a series of moves, eventually settled in Poughkeepsie to raise one daughter and four sons. Later the couple moved to Cooperstown after building a home on Otsego Lake. Following her husband’s passing in 2007, Mary came to reside at The Clara Welch Thanksgiving Home in Cooperstown, a place she truly enjoyed and appreciated. 

Mary was a long-time member of St. Mary’s “Our Lady of the Lake” Roman Catholic Church in Cooperstown and active in charity work, especially the American Cancer Society, Fenimore Art Museum, Farmers’ Museum, Women’s Club, Senior Bridge Group and the Cooperstown Food Pantry. 

Mary is missed by her daughter, Ellen M. Leary Coccoma and son-in-law Michael Coccoma, along with their children Nicholas, Caitrin (and her son Evan) and Peter; her son John P. Leary and daughter-in-law Pat, along with their children Jeffrey, Emily and Kristine; her son Brian J. Leary and daughter-in-law, Raquel, along with their daughters Meghan (and her son Leo), Bridget (and her daughters Ellia and Cassia) and Bernadette; her son James P. Leary and daughter-in-law, Jane, along with their children Jacqueline and Michael; her son, Dennis M. Leary and daughter-in-law, Kelly, along with their children, Ryan and Nicole; and her sister, Catherine A. Maher, as well as her beloved nieces and nephews and many friends. 

In addition to her husband, Mary was predeceased by her parents, Joseph and Agnes Maher and her sister, Elizabeth Virgil. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, September 8, 2022, at St. Mary’s “Our Lady of the Lake” Roman Catholic Church in Cooperstown, with Fr. Michael Cambi, pastor officiating. Interment will follow in Lakeview Cemetery, Richfield Springs. 

Contributions may be made in Mary’s name to the Cooperstown Food Pantry, 25 Church Street, Cooperstown, NY 13326. If you would like to send condolences to the family or send flowers in memory of the deceased, please use the information below.

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


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

Ralph DiDomenico

May 28, 1944 – August 8, 2022

MARYLAND – Ralph (Ralphie, Ralphie Boy), a resident of Maryland, NY, was born on May 28, 1944, to the late Rose Scarpone DiDomenico and Boniface DiDomenico in Manhattan. He was an only child and soared into his Father’s arms on August 8, 2022. 

Ralph was a 1962 graduate of Sewanhaka High School. His education included a bachelor’s degree from Nyack College 1989-91 in Organizational Management; OASAS Certified Training Program, 1996-99 CASAC, Addictions Treatment and Prevention; Lincoln Hospital, 1999 ADS (Acupuncture Detoxifications Specialist); Rutgers University 2000 Summer School of Alcohol and Drug Studies, Addiction Treatment; 2007 Gambling Specialty. He was a retired member of the Orange County Cultural Equity Taskforce, retired member of the Orange County SPOA committee and recipient of the 6th Annual JMHCA (Justice and Mental Health Collaboration Act) Distinguished Service Award. 

Beyond all scopes of education, he was an expert on eating food. Food specialties include Italian cuisine such as the dried meat selection, Italian bakery items, actually, let's be honest here, ALL bakery items. He was also fluent in Chinese food. If it wasn’t meant to be sweet, then it better be spicy!

Ralph is survived and proud of the four daughters he had with his first wife, Carol-Margaret Stevens (Anthony), Marie McDowell (Todd), Angelina Fodera (Adam), and Rachael DiDomenico (Richard Crews). 

Seven years ago, Ralph was fortunate to reunite with his high school sweetheart, a partner in crime, and is survived by his wife Adele Morse-DiDomenico. After Adele and Ralph married, he became the proud father to Adele’s daughters Cora Morse Pappas, (Andrew), and Jesse Morse Judd, (Michael). 

He is survived by grandchildren, Tatiana and Andrew Cunningham, Javani, A.J., Ashine, and Carolann Stevens, Katelynn (Glenn) McDowell-Goudreau and Sarajane McDowell, Noah and Hunter Fodera, Richard Jr. and Calvin Crews, Sophia and Nicole Pappas, and Tia, Kayla, Walter, Michael, and Samantha Judd. 

Great Grandchildren include: Elias Rosado Cunningham, Anastasia, and Esmerelda Cunningham, and Annabelle and Wyatt Bruyn-McDowell. Soon to come: Rhea Stevens. 

Ralph is survived by cousins Mary Scarpone-Breen and her two daughters Hillary and Amanda, Lois (John) Cicardo and two sons Michael and Jason and Mary Marando and daughter Lynn.

He was loved and will be missed by his fur babies Gracie and Cali.

Ralph was a member of Fusion Community Church in Cobleskill. He was a soldier of God and a life learner of God’s word. He had helped many through their difficult times. What many didn’t know is when Ralph was teaching others it was then that he was also a student. He was truly a pillar to the church and his community.

Psalm 100: 4,5 
Enter his gates with thanksgiving, go into his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and praise. Give thanks to him and praise his name. For the LORD is good. His unfailing love continues forever, and his faithfulness continues to each generation.
 
In lieu of flowers, we ask you to please pay it forward in honor of our dad. Purchase the meal, dessert, or coffee of a stranger the next time you are out and tell them you are doing this in honor of a man who had the love and passion for good food then ask them to pay it forward the next time they go out. Putting a smile on someone's face is also placing one in their heart.  

Please join us in a Celebration of Life for Ralph DiDomenico:

1 p.m., Saturday, September 17, 2022
Fusion Community Church
375 N. Grand Street, Cobleskill, NY 12043
(518) 823-4365



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.

Karen Burgess

1957 - 2022

HARTWICK – Karen Burgess (née Stefanachi) departed our world on July 19th, 2022, due to complications from heart surgery while surrounded by loved ones. She was 64.

Karen was born October 18th, 1957, in Rockville Centre to Eugene and Barbara Stefanachi. She grew up in Uniondale and attended Uniondale High School where she excelled in art and being that effortlessly cool chick. During a summer visit to Cooperstown, she met Mike Burgess on Main St., who she instantly recognized as ‘that cool guy she had seen around town.’ They married in 1977 and moved to Hartwick in 1983 with their three young daughters.

She started in the nursing profession as a young mom and found a natural talent for care-giving and the art and science of medicine. As a working mom in the 90’s, she valiantly went back to college and furthered her nursing degree. During her nursing career of 40+ years, she received awards and recognitions too numerous to list here. More importantly, she healed countless sick patients with her expert care and soothed hearts with her wisdom and kindness.

She saw beauty everywhere, honored nature, and was a daily inspiration to create art. Whether it be with her painting, jewelry making, or any medium that called to her, she was always making something gorgeous and giving it away to the delight of the lucky recipient. She was also generous with her thoughts and time. She loved to travel and some of her fondest memories were of epic trips with her super-friends, La and Amy. Yet, she always came back to Otsego Lake as one of her favorite meditative places on Earth (and Canadarago as the fun party lake). She found bliss when paddling in her kayak, drinking in an ocean view, or doting on her dogs. 

She loved being an ‘Oma’ to her three grandchildren; she never stopped being the cool chick, while also being a magical mom to yet another generation. While she was a mother figure to many, she was also the quintessential warrior woman, heroically fighting off cancer twice.

Karen was preceded in death by her father Eugene in 2020. She is survived by Mike, her husband of 45 years, her mother Barbara, her sister Debra and brother-in-law Stephen; her nieces and nephews: Stephen, Jackie, Erica, Gene and Joey; her daughters and their spouses: Heather and Justin; Rebecca and John; and Kari and Jeff. And of course, her grandchildren, Noah, Jasiah and Amelia who will continue to honor her legacy by making the world a kinder, more beautiful place, as she did.

Calling hours will be held Sunday July 31st, 2022, from 3 to 5 p.m. at Connell, Dow and Deysenroth, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Susquehanna SPCA or a charity of your choice. A Celebration of Life gathering will be planned for September. 


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

James E. Dow

1947- 2022

COOPERSTOWN – James E. Dow, whose dedication and service to the Cooperstown area as a licensed funeral director spanned a period of over 40 years, and service to Otsego County as a coroner spanned a period of 30 years, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of Thursday, July 14, 2022, at his home in the Village of Cooperstown with his beloved wife, Debbie, at his side.  He was 74.

Jim was born on November 10, 1947, in Oneonta, the son of George E. Dow, Jr. and Helen (Sturges) Dow.  When Jim was 10 his father's position with New York Telephone brought about a move to Stamford.  In 1961, another transfer brought the family to the Village of Cooperstown, and deep roots were planted.  Throughout those formative years, Jim enjoyed spending his free time with his grandparents on their farm at Sturges Corners in North Kortright.  Valuable life lessons and skills were learned from Grandma Frances and Grandpa Ray, and he enjoyed sharing tales of his escapades and adventures there.

Jim graduated from Cooperstown Central School with the Class of 1965.  The day after graduation he began working at the Ingalls Funeral Home in Cooperstown and began to fulfill the mandatory year-long apprenticeship required prior to attending the Simmons School of Embalming and Mortuary Science in Syracuse.  Upon his graduation in 1967, he immediately returned to the Ingalls Funeral Home which was owned by Chet and Millie Ingalls and managed by George Connell.  George and Jim assumed full ownership and operation of the funeral home in 1970 and the name was changed to the Ingalls, Connell & Dow Funeral Home.  George retired in 1986 and Jim became the sole owner and operator of the funeral home until 1994 when Peter Deysenroth joined him and the funeral home became known as the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home.  In 2005 Jim retired and full ownership passed to Peter.  Throughout those 40 years, Jim remained committed to providing compassionate service, going above and beyond to meet the needs of each and every family he served.  He became an Otsego County Coroner in 1988, a position where he continued his commitment to compassionate service to local families and communities until 2018.  

Never one to be idle, Jim pursued other business interests and jobs throughout the years.  In the early 70's he took over the operation of Bassett Hospital's patient transport service with his friend, David Butler. The business was named Cooperstown Medical Transport and was later sold to Mark Zeek and Margaret McGown.  He and Dave also owned and operated the Pathfinder Trucking Company for a period of time, and later entered into a joint venture of building two spec houses.  A life-long baseball fan, former player, "ball boy" at a Hall of Fame game and coach for Little League and Pony League teams, Jim later became a certified umpire and enjoyed using his skills at area high schools and Damaschke Field.

Throughout his life Jim delved into any new hobby or interest with 100% focus and energy.  He created a one-of-a-kind narrow gauge model railroad layout; each and every part of which he created, carved by hand and built from scratch, including intricate mountain passes, trestle bridges, streams and scenery.  He taught himself how to sail with a borrowed book and mastered the banjo with a few lessons. In later years he returned to his love of camping and enjoyed travelling to new places with all the comforts of home along for the ride, including his beloved pets. For a period of 10 years, Jim and Deb spent the winter months at the Briarcliffe RV Resort in Myrtle Beach where he was an active member on the Board of Directors.  He was an avid golfer for many years and especially enjoyed the Wednesday golf group and tournaments at the Leatherstocking Golf Course.  

He was a current member of the Sons of the American Legion Post No. 579, a past president and current vice-president of the Lakewood Cemetery Association, a long-time member and past president of the Cooperstown Lions Club, a former member of both the NYS Funeral Directors Association and the former Ninth District Funeral Directors Association, a former member of the Rat Patrol, and a former member of the Cooperstown Fire Department. 

Jim is survived by his loving companion of 40 years and wife of 39 years, Debra (Oles) Dow; his two sons Neil (Jaime) Dow of Middletown and Brian Dow of Kansas; his grandchildren Mitchell, Baylie, Alivia, Brianna, Kendra and Cooper Dow; his brother Ransom "Randy" Dow of Cooperstown; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Above all else, Jim was known and appreciated for his quick wit, broad smile, and contagious laughter.  To best honor those qualities, a Celebration of Life service will be offered at 2 PM Saturday, July 30, 2022, at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown with the Rev. Betsy Jay officiating.  Immediately following the service there will be a time for greeting Jim's family, a sharing of stories, and light refreshments.

Those wishing to do so may direct memorial donations to the Susquehanna SPCA, 5082-5088 State Highway 28, Cooperstown, NY 13326, or Helios Care, 297 River Street Service Road, Suite 1, Oneonta, NY  13820.



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.

Geoffrey H. Goodwin

1971 - 2022

FLY CREEK – Geoffrey Harrison Goodwin, 50, passed away on June 15, 2022, at home in Fly Creek. He was born December 30, 1971, at New York Hospital to Gary and Sally Goodwin. The family moved to Cooperstown in 1972 and then to Fly Creek in 1988.

After graduating from Cooperstown Central School with the Class of 1990, Geoff attended Syracuse University where he received a B.A. degree. He worked as a Laboratory Technician at Bassett Medical Center for four years before moving to Boulder, Colorado, where he earned an M.F.A. degree from Naropa University. 

Geoff was a writer. His freelance publications were wide ranging but he took the greatest pleasure in his poetry and short stories. He loved and collected books and also ran an independent bookstore where people delighted in stopping by to visit and joke with him. He was fascinated by words and their meanings and got into trouble in high school for reading the dictionary instead of whatever he should have been doing. Based in Natick and Framingham Massachusetts, Geoff really enjoyed living in the Boston area. He had a lifelong passion for the Boston Celtics.

Geoff’s enthusiasm and infectious energy made life interesting. The entire family remembers how he orchestrated the search for his grandmother’s lost rings after her memorial service. He motivated the group to turn an initially frustrating hunt into a fun and satisfying experience. Geoff was intelligent and sensitive. He was appreciated for his sense of humor and quick wit as well as for his kindness. He stayed in touch with many people and he treasured his community of friends near and far.

In 2014 Geoffrey’s back was injured in an auto accident caused by a drunk driver. He faced chronic pain and health complications for the rest of his life. He returned to Otsego County in 2019. He never lost hope but the COVID-19 pandemic hampered his rehabilitation efforts. His unexpected death was due to cardiac failure.

Geoffrey is survived by his parents, Gary and Sally (Marks) Goodwin, his brother, Thomas Goodwin, his beloved aunts and uncles, Sharon Cresci of Auburn, Maine, Elizabeth Gunn and Don Kash of Norman, Oklahoma, and Harrison and Suzie Marks of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and his cherished cousins, Kathryn Marks (Jim Nelson) of Alexandria, Virginia, Andrew (Lindsay) Gunn of Norman, Oklahoma, and Benjamin (Tracey) Marks of Isle of Palms, South Carolina. 

When you think of Geoff hug a friend, offer encouragement or share a cup of coffee. 

A gathering to celebrate his life will be held at a later date. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Mothers Against Drunk Driving. 


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.

Lawrence D. “Lannie” Richards

1954 - 2022

COOPERSTOWN – Lawrence Dale “Lannie” Richards, a longtime resident of the Cooperstown area, passed away unexpectedly Friday, June 10, 2022, at his home on Van Yahres Road. He was 67. 

Born September 11, 1954, in Westfield, Massachusetts, Lannie was one of five sons of Harold P. and Kathryn M. (Walrath) Richards. Raised in Cooperstown, he graduated with the Class of 1973 from Cooperstown Central School. 

On June 26, 1976, Lannie married Shari L. Nelson in Middlefield. Shari passed away unexpectedly June 16, 2011. 

After working at Bassett Hospital, he owned and operated Groundskeepers, providing property maintenance to many individuals and businesses in the Cooperstown area.

Throughout his life, Lannie was an avid hunter and enjoyed attending classic car shows and camping at the West Canada Creek with Priscilla. As a life-long resident, Lannie knew many people and had a great many more connections. He went out of his way for friends and clients, had a giving personality, and will be missed.

Lannie is survived by his companion, Priscilla J. Preston (née Weller) of Cooperstown; a son, Lawrence P. “Larry” Richards of Cooperstown; a daughter, Jennifer Richards of Middlefield; two brothers, Harry R. Richards of Cooperstown and Harry M. Richards and wife, Jeanie of Okeechobee, Florida and a sister-in-law, Dee Richards of New York State, and their families. 

In addition to his wife of 35 years, Shari, Lannie was predeceased by his father, Harold P. Richards who died October 13, 1994, his mother, Kathryn M. Richards who died April 14, 2001, and two brothers, Carl L. Richards who died March 30, 2001, and Harold P. Richards.  

There will be no services at this time. 

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


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

George W. McCrea

1936 - 2022

COOPERSTOWN – George W. McCrea, age 86, of Cooperstown, passed away peacefully early Thursday morning, June 16, 2022. 

George was born February 11, 1936, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, a son of James M. and Alice (Reilly) McCrea.

When he was a youngster his family moved to Laurens, where he graduated from Laurens Central School with the Class of 1955. During his high school years, he was a three-sport all-star in football, basketball and baseball. On January 18, 1956, he enlisted in the United States Navy and proudly served his country as a Third Class Petty Officer for four years following the Korean War. He often recalled when his ship, the USS Leyte, hit a whale, noting, “It stopped the ship dead in the water.” His aircraft carrier was responsible for patrolling the northeast coast of the United States. Following his honorable discharge on December 17, 1959, he apprenticed to and became a stone mason and a bricklayer. He also owned and operated a farm on the Middlefield Center Road.

George married Constance “Connie” Larsen of Cooperstown, and together they raised their three children in Cooperstown, first in the Village and later on their farm in Middlefield Center. 

George is survived by his wife, Connie; three children, Karen (Keith) McCrea of Meco, Katherine McCrea of Anchorage, Alaska, and Michael (Marie) McCrea of Middlefield Center; seven grandchildren, Erin Lamouret, Collin Lamouret (Sandra) and Hannah Lamouret Gross (Joshua), Piper Lightwood and Maxwell Lightwood, and Julia McCrea and Leah McCrea; and four great grandsons, Alexander, Rhett and Keelan Gross and Patrick Lamouret. He is further survived by a brother, John McCrea of Oneonta, a sister, Patricia Mooney of Kingston and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, his brothers James Merritt and Joseph Edward and his sister, Alice. 

There will be a brief memorial service at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 25, 2022, at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown, with Fr. Kyle T. Grennan, Rector of Grace Episcopal Church in Cherry Valley, officiating. At the conclusion of the service, Military Honors will be accorded by members of the Cooperstown Veterans Club and the United State Navy Funeral Honors Team. Immediately following there will be a Celebration of George’s Life to be held at The Tryon Inn, 124 Main Street, Cherry Valley, at which all are invited to attend and share your memories with the family. 

In lieu of flowers, if you so wish, please consider a donation to 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.