Connell, Dow & Deysenroth, Inc.Funeral Home: 2025

JoAnn G. Hubbell

1950 - 2025

COOPERSTOWN – JoAnn Gail Hubbell, 75, a beloved resident of the area, peacefully entered into eternal life on Sunday morning, June 29, 2025, at Woodside Hall in Cooperstown, surrounded by her children and dear friends.

Born January 17, 1950, at the Aurelia Osborn Fox Memorial Hospital in Oneonta, JoAnn was the daughter of Glenford H. and Lillian E. (Moran) Hubbell.

After graduating from Cooperstown Central School with the Class of 1968, she went on to attend the State University of New York College at Oneonta.

Later in life, JoAnn followed her calling in healthcare, attending the Ellis Hospital School of Nursing, graduating in 1983. She worked as a dedicated Registered Nurse at Ellis Hospital in Schenectady and also served patients through her work with United Healthcare.

For a time, JoAnn practiced real estate in the Capitol District before returning to Cooperstown in 2005 to join her family at Hubbell’s Real Estate.

JoAnn is survived by her son, Jason Hubbell Long, his wife Rebecca of Pierstown; and sons Ian and Alec. She is also survived by her daughter, Victoria C. Long-Gula, and her husband John of Schenectady, along with their children, Natalia Christine and Donovan Xavier.

JoAnn is survived by her sister, Christine Winslow, and her husband Michael of Fly Creek, and their children: Andria Bryant and husband Jeffrey, Cassandra Woosley and husband Donald, along with their children Dylan and Emily all of Charleston, SC. She is further survived by her brother, Glenn E. Hubbell, and his wife Cindy of Cooperstown, and their children: Jennifer Hubbell and her husband Hassan Taimur, Laura Hubbell, and Brian Hubbell and his wife Julia.

To celebrate JoAnn’s life, her family will receive friends from 2 to 4 p.m. on Monday, July 7, 2025, with a service to follow at 4 p.m. all taking place at Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown.

Burial will be private in Lakewood Cemetery in Cooperstown.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Village Library of Cooperstown, 22 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.

Robert S. Kolka

1956 - 2025

MILFORD – Robert S. Kolka, “Big Bob”, the Cowboy of Milford, well-known horseman, farmer, and beloved member of the Milford community, passed away Tuesday afternoon, June 24, 2025, after a courageous and private battle with cancer. He was 68 years old.

Born August 25, 1956, at Nyack Hospital in Nyack, New York, Bob was fourth of six children of Joseph Walter and Vera Marie (Meehan) Kolka.

Bob grew up on Strawtown Dairy in New City, NY - a large dairy farm and creamery founded by his grandparents and run by his father and uncles. From a young age, he had a passion for hunting and fishing. His grandfather, Bob Meehan, fostered a lifelong love of racing homers, show pigeons and chickens. All starting at a young age, he and his siblings took horseback riding lessons and each focused on their own disciplines. Bob’s aspiration was “to one day ride like Phil Sheridan”. Coincidentally, they became close friends later in life and went on countless rides together!

Growing up with his brothers Jeffrey, Michael and Timothy and many cousins, Bob also developed a love for Ford Muscle cars, especially fastback Mustangs and Falcons. He and his brothers raced at Dover and Englishtown dragstrips and might have “practiced” throughout Rockland County.

He attended Clarkstown North High School and worked at the family farm until the cows were sold. He worked in construction and later started his career with Elmhurst Dairy delivering milk in and around New York City. But he could not shake the dream of one day owning and operating his own family farm.

In 1982, Bob and his then wife, Patricia, purchased Rolling Brook Farm in Milford NY. He moved upstate with two children Shannon and Joseph, and later welcomed a third, Robert in 1983. Bob took great pride in learning crop and herd management and was an active member of the local agricultural community and supporter of the county fair and 4H. He operated his dairy farm until he sold the cows in 1991.

Bob moved to Northern Virginia to run heavy equipment as his next career in the rapidly-growing residential development phase throughout the national capital region. As a skilled heavy equipment operator, he could be left with site-plans and topographic maps to excavate new roads and residential sites, or prepare final residential yards as the finish grade operator. Fortunately, he always found time to ride horses, learned how to ski, taught the kids how to water ski, partnered in raising beef cattle with Cindy Kukenberger, and made life-long friendships. He travelled back and forth on weekends, holidays, and vacations to be with his kids and extended family.

Bob had a passion for entrepreneurship, and even more so, horses. Bob returned to his farm in 2001 and opened Brass Ring Farm as a trail riding venue and horse sales. Bob’s skill for recognizing a good horse and telling a good tale served him well as he bought and sold horses, taught countless people to ride, and guided trail rides through his farm. Bob fostered a love of horses in his children and grandchildren. He formed lasting friendships with members of the horse community across the country.

Bob purchased a portable sawmill and built all the buildings and fencing on the farm from logs he harvested and milled himself. Using his own heavy equipment, he designed, created, and maintained the horseback riding trails throughout Brass Ring Farm. He constructed his very own beautiful spring fed 1.5 acre pond that he stocked with catfish, bass, and trout for family fishing.

Bob prioritized enjoying the simple pleasures in life, whether fishing with his grandchildren, trail riding on his beautiful horse, Noble, or spending time with his family and friends. Bob had the rare ability of making friends easily everywhere he went, and the special quality of turning friends into family.

Bob is survived by his children Shannon (Steve) Blumenreich of Danbury CT, Joseph Kolka of Milford, NY, Matthew (Ana) White of Port Orchard WA, and Robert (Kristen) Kolka of Stony Point NY; grandchildren Sophia, Sam, and Henry Blumenreich, Noelle and Alex Kolka, and Amalia and Cruz White; his companion of 33 years, Cindy Kukenberger of Cooperstown; two sisters, Maureen Cifuni, Colleen Richard, and brother Michael Kolka.

He was predeceased by his father, Joseph W. Kolka; mother, Vera M. Kolka; two brothers, Timothy J. Kolka, and Jeffrey C. Kolka; and stepson Christopher T. White.

Beginning at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 5, 2025, family and friends are welcome to gather at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown. At 1 p.m. a service will be held which all are welcome to attend with the Very Rev. Michael G. Cambi, Pastor of St. Mary’s “Our Lady of the Lake” Roman Catholic Church in Cooperstown officiating. Immediately following the service, Bob’s family will continue to receive friends at the funeral home until 4 p.m.

Ronald Max Streek

1939 - 2025

COOPERSTOWN – Ron Streek, a long-time resident of Cooperstown, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2025, at his home, surrounded by family and friends. He was 85.

Born on September 14, 1939, in Baltimore, MD, Ron was the youngest of three children of William Julius Streek and Meta Awishus Streek, both of whom were immigrants from Germany.

After graduating in 1957 from Mepham High School in North Bellmore, Ron enlisted in the United States Navy and proudly served his country until receiving an Honorable Discharge October 21, 1963.

Ron married his high school sweetheart, Robelle “Susie” Edith Polson, on March 20, 1960. In 1966, Ron and Susie moved upstate from Bayshore to Fly Creek, and eventually settled into their current home on Main Street, Cooperstown in 1984. It was here that they owned and operated Main Street Bed and Breakfast for more than four decades. The B&B quickly developed a reputation for a hearty breakfast and warm hospitality. Visitors found it nearly impossible to book a room as many guests returned year after year and became, in essence, an extended family.

In addition to their B&B, Ron’s business ventures included several successful auto repair shops and ownership of NAPA stores in Little Falls and Dolgeville. Ron was a craftsman well known for his carpentry skills and knowledge of anything with a motor. His workshop and barn overflowed with tools and equipment of all types.

Ron’s true passion was sailing on the beautiful Glimmerglass. His study is filled with awards and accolades attesting to his prowess as a sailor and competitor. Ron and Susie were active and devoted members of the Otsego Sailing Club with Ron chairing many committees, tirelessly volunteering and racing competitively for more than 50 years. In March 2025 the OSC recognized his many years of dedication and awarded him the Club’s first Member Emeritus.

Ron was also active in the Cooperstown community and served in executive roles at the Village of Cooperstown Water & Sewer Commission, the Zoning Board of Appeals, and the Otsego County Planning Board. Ron was also an active volunteer and executive of many community organizations including the Cooperstown Sportsman’s Club, the Clark F. Simmons American Legion Post No. 579, the Mohican Club, The Lions Club of Cooperstown, and the Rotary Club of Cooperstown.

Ron is survived by his beloved wife, Susie, and daughters Sandy Streek of Charlottesville, VA, Annette Voreyer (Robert) of Greenwich, CT, and Patricia Klink (Michael) of Sunset, SC. He was also blessed with five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Ron was predeceased by his son, Sean Ronald Streek, brother, Bill Streek, and sister Inge Gamble.

A service in celebration of Ron’s life will be offered at 3 p.m. on Friday, July 11, 2025, at the First Presbyterian Church of Cooperstown, with the Rev. Jessica D. Lambert officiating. As part of the service and in recognition of Ron’s service in the United States Navy, Military Honors will be accorded by members of the Cooperstown Veterans Club and the United States Navy Honor Guard. Immediately following the service there will be a reception in the Chapel.

Ron will be laid to rest with his family in the Hartwick Seminary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, family and friends can celebrate Ron’s life with donations in his memory to the Otsego Sailing Club (PO Box 816, Cooperstown, NY 13326), the Susquehanna SPCA (PO Box 267, Cooperstown, NY 13326), or to Helios Care (297 River Street Service Road, Suite 1, Oneonta, NY 13820).

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

Joan M. Hopkins

1938 - 2025

COOPERSTOWN – Joan M. Hopkins, 86, of Cooperstown, entered eternal rest Thursday afternoon, June 19, 2025, at her home on Browdy Mountain Road, surrounded by family and loved ones.

She was born on December 7, 1938, in Binghamton, a daughter of John and Annabelle Effley. Joan graduated from Utica Free Academy in Utica and then successfully pursued a teaching degree at SUNY Potsdam. While at SUNY Potsdam, Joan met her beloved husband, James J. Hopkins. On July 1, 1961, Joan married Jim in a ceremony at St. Francis De Sales Catholic Church in Utica.

In their early years, Joan and Jim lived in Potsdam, Tallahassee, Florida, Ann Arbor, Michigan and Zurich, Switzerland. They finally settled down in Bay Shore in 1977 where Joan was an elementary school teacher for the Bay Shore Public School District until her retirement in 1996. Before retiring, however, they moved to Westhampton. Finally, in June of 2002, Joan and Jim moved from Westhampton to Cooperstown and settled into their home at the very top of Browdy Mountain Road, overlooking Otsego Lake.

Joan and Jim were active communicants of St. Patrick’s Catholic Parish in Bay Shore for many years. Upon moving to Cooperstown, they became equally involved with the Parish family of St. Mary’s “Our Lady of the Lake” Roman Catholic Church, where Joan sang in the choir, which was led by Jim who served as Director of Music Liturgy.

Joan and Jim loved to entertain and to spend their summers at their river house on the St. Lawrence River in Oak Point. There they would invite family and friends to visit and stay for as long as they liked.

Joan was the loving mother of four sons, Christopher Hopkins and his wife, Sarah of Gainesville, Georgia, Timothy Hopkins and his wife, Carol, of Great River, Sean Hopkins and his wife, Athena, of Cooperstown and Matthew Hopkins and his wife, Adrienne, of Ames. She was also the beloved grandmother of Annie, Andrew, Thomas, Daniel, Olivia, Vivian, Peter, Aliza, Sullivan, John, James and Benjamin.

Joan was preceded in death by Jim, who died May, 24, 2008.

Joan’s family will receive friends from 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 2 p.m. Thursday, June 26, 2025, at St. Mary’s “Our Lady of the Lake” Roman Catholic Church in Cooperstown, with the Very Rev. Michael G. Cambi, Pastor officiating.

The Service of Committal and Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Index, where Joan will be laid to rest alongside her beloved Jim.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in the form of memorial gifts may be made to St. Mary’s “Our Lady of the Lake” Roman Catholic Church, 31 Elm Street, Cooperstown, NY 13326.

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

Elizabeth Hribar

1936 - 2025

COOPERSTOWN – Elizabeth “Betty” Hribar, a long-time resident of Fork Shop, passed away Wednesday morning, June 18, 2025, at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown. She was 89.

Born June 3, 1936, at the Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown, she was the daughter of Raymond N. and Minnie (Schallert) Bachanas. In her youth she attended a one-room schoolhouse in Cat Town and later Cooperstown Central School.

On October 28, 1952, Betty married David M. Hribar in a ceremony at St. Mary's "Our Lady of the Lake" Roman Catholic Church in Cooperstown. Betty and Dave then moved to Ilion where Dave worked at Remington Arms assembling fire arms.

Following a layoff in 1955, Betty and Dave returned to the Cooperstown area and settled into their home in Fork Shop in June of that year. For 13 years, Betty worked at the Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown, first in the research department and then in the OBGYN clinic. She then went to work for the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, and was with them for 21 years selling tickets.

Betty is survived by her and Dave’s four children, David M. Hribar, Jr. and Diane M. Hribar of Fork Shop, and Keith Hribar and Melissa Madaras and husband, Andy, of Richfield Springs; a son-in-law, Victor Smith of Pierstown; seven grandchildren, Heather Bancroft and husband, Jason, Jason Smith, Cady Schoonover and husband, Derek, Rebecca Brooks and husband, Douglas Brooks, Jr., Kody Bruce and husband, Brian, Kimberly Rojo and husband, Jario, and Jamie Madaras and husband, Justin Matthews; 15 great grandchildren; and two great great grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her husband of 60 years, Dave, who died April, 6, 2012; a daughter, Terri Ann Smith who died August 23, 2016; and a grandson, Matthew Hribar who died February 11, 1994.

A graveside service will be offered at 2 p.m. Friday, June 27, 2025, in the Fly Creek Valley Cemetery, 140 Cemetery Road, Fly Creek, with the Rev. Jessica D. Lambert, Chaplain at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown, officiating.

As an alternative to flowers, please consider memorial donations to 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.

Timothy Patrick McLarney

1963 - 2025

ONEONTA - Timothy Patrick McLarney, 62, of Oneonta, died early Tuesday morning, June 10, 2025, at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown.

He was born May 5, 1963, in Neptune, New Jersey, son of Joseph McLarney and Jane McLarney Richards. He was predeceased by his parents and his sister, Maureen McLarney. He is survived by his sister, Kathleen McLarney, with whom he lived; brother Jay Zahner and wife Sandra of Spring Lake, New Jersey; niece Caitlin McLarney; and nephews Reilly McLarney and Zachary Curless of Oneonta. He is also survived by his dear friend, Duane Murvine of Oneonta.

As a boy he moved with his mother and elder sister to Chautauqua County, and later to Delaware County. Tim graduated from the B.O.C.E.S. program in Chautauqua County. Later, he worked at various ARC workshops in Chautauqua, Delaware and Otsego counties. He proved to be a valued employee, known for his attention to detail and high rate of production. After his mother's death, he was lovingly cared for by Kathleen for 33 years.

Tim was a good-natured fellow. He enjoyed his comics and antique-related books and amassed a sizable collection. He was a Beatles and Marvel/DC aficionado. In summers, he enjoyed a return trip to the Jersey Shore for a swim in the ocean, hamburgers on the grill and chocolate chip cookies. A particular thrill in his earlier years was going to Six Flags Great Adventure, seeing the animals in the Safari Park and riding the roller coasters.

The family thanks the staff of Creekside Industries, Otsego Arc, A.O. Fox Hospital and Bassett Medical Center of Cooperstown for their loving care of Tim.

Arrangements are through the Connell, Dow, and Deysenroth Funeral Home of Cooperstown. All services are private.

In his memory, donations may be made to Creekside Industries, A Division of Arc Otsego, 102 Browne St., Oneonta NY 13820. A memorial cookout for family and friends will be held later this summer.

Harry D. Swanger, Jr.

1939 - 2025

COOPERSTOWN – Harry Daniel “Sonny” Swanger, Jr., 85, entered into eternal rest late Saturday morning, May 17, 2025, at Cooperstown Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing.

Sonny was born June 26, 1939, in Jonestown, Pennsylvania, a son of Harry Daniel Swanger, Sr. and Rachael June (Gettle) Swanger.

From January 24, 1962, until January 23, 1964, Sonny proudly served his country in the United States Army.

On October 29, 2011, Sonny married Patricia Ann Armstrong Young. Upon moving to Cooperstown, they settled into the Cooper Lane Apartments, and most recently they were residing in Richfield Springs.

While living in Cooperstown, Sonny was employed as a sales clerk at The Farmers’ Museum.

Sonny is survived by his wife, Patty, and two sisters, Janice Heisy and Norma Sidle of Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, June 26, 2025, on what would have been Sonny’s 86th birthday, in the Fly Creek Valley Cemetery on Cemetery Road in Fly Creek, with the Rev. Jessica Lambert, Pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Cooperstown, officiating. Military Honors will be rendered by members of the Cooperstown Veterans Club and the New York State Military Forces Honor Guard.

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

Barrett S. Carso

1970 - 2025

COOPERSTOWN – Barrett S. Carso, 55, passed away on April 14, 2025, following a brief illness.

Barrett was born in 1969 in Huntington, on Long Island, the third son of Brian F. Carso Sr. and Betty Lou Carso. When he was 8 years old, his family moved to upper Fly Creek Valley, where he attended school in Richfield Springs and graduated with the class of 1988. Subsequently, Barrett was a student at SUNY College at Oneonta, graduating in 1993 with a Bachelor of Science degree. Later, in 1998, he earned an associate degree in paralegal studies at Herkimer County Community College.

For many years, Barrett worked with his father, Brian Carso Sr., a licensed land surveyor. In that occupation he walked many miles through woods and fields, and in-between house lots throughout Otsego County, carrying a plumb bob and pulling a surveyor’s long steel measuring tape. For the daily work he did with land surveys, Barrett was known by many local attorneys, real estate agents, and county employees. In recent years, following his father’s retirement, Barrett worked at the Cooperstown Distillery.

Barrett is survived by his two brothers, Brad Carso (and his wife Lynn), and Brian Carso Jr. (and his wife Kerry), and his two nephews, Owen and Nathaniel Carso. He was predeceased by his parents.

Friends are invited to remember Barrett and greet his family on Saturday, June 28, 2025, from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m., at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown. At 2:00 there will be a memorial service at the funeral home. Burial will be private.

Patrick Ryan Dunnion

MILFORD – Patrick Ryan Dunnion, a lifelong area resident, entered into eternal rest at the age of 22.

He was born April 10, 2003, at Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown. He graduated from Milford Central School and then worked in construction, a job he truly liked and excelled at.

Patrick will be remembered for being a very kind person who had an incredible sense of humor. He will be greatly missed by many schoolmates and the friends he made during his brief life.

Patrick will especially be mourned and missed by his grandmother, Margaret Kiss, and her husband, Lionel “Lee” Santos, who raised Patrick at their home in Milford since he was a young child. He is further survived by his father, Joseph Dunnion, of Williampsort, PA, and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Friends may call and pay their respects to Patrick’s family from 5-7 p.m. on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown. At 6:30 p.m. a Prayer Service will be offered by the Very Rev. Michael G. Cambi, Pastor of St. Mary’s “Our Lady of the Lake” Roman Catholic Church in Cooperstown.

Immediately following the visitation, everyone is invited to gather for a reception at Cooperstown Coworks, 6 Doubleday Court, Cooperstown.

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

Polly Renckens

Polly Renckens passed away peacefully on June 2, 2025, surrounded by her loving children. She was 81 years old. Polly will be remembered for her deep devotion to family, her generous spirit, and a life defined by service, humor, and heart.

Polly was born in Syracuse to Helen and Ray Parrott, the third of four children. A proud graduate of SUNY Fredonia, she earned her teaching degree and met the love of her life, Jim. She went on to pursue a master’s degree at Syracuse University’s Maxwell School and lived a vibrant young adult life in New York City and abroad—traveling through Europe, exploring the world, and pushing boundaries with a fierce independence and strong sense of self.

Polly and Jim married in September 1968 and soon welcomed their first child. They relocated from Mamaroneck to Cooperstown, where they became innkeepers at the Hickory Grove Inn. With love, humor, and the support of neighbors, they turned the Grove into a cherished gathering place for locals and visitors alike.

In 1987, Polly launched a new professional chapter as the proprietor of Country Memories, a gift shop in Springfield Center known for its beautifully curated home goods and welcoming atmosphere. She later took on a leadership role at Otsego 2000, a nonprofit dedicated to environmental preservation and community heritage. As Executive Director, she brought both vision and action. In 1991, she founded the Cooperstown Farmers’ Market—now a thriving local institution—connecting farmers and artisans with residents and visitors while revitalizing Main Street.

In 1998, Polly transitioned to become Executive Director of the Cooperstown Chamber of Commerce, where she brought the same creative spirit and tireless energy. She developed signature events that put the region on the map, including the Snow Sculpture Workshop, Hare by Air, and the Pumpkin Festival, complete with its crowd-favorite giant pumpkin regatta. She also introduced health insurance options for Chamber members, a life-saving resource for small business owners.

Polly was a thoughtful leader and generous colleague, always crafting creative solutions and championing her community. Her dedication to service was woven into everything she did. She was an active member of St. Mary’s Parish in Cooperstown and, after moving to Richfield Springs in 2006, continued her commitment to faith and service at St. Joseph’s Church. Whether making an extra batch of apple muffins to share with friends, organizing funeral receptions through the bereavement committee, or planning the Relay for Life Team Tempura menu, Polly brought energy and joy to every adventure.

She was preceded in death by her husband and partner of 54 years, Jim Renckens, with whom she shared a joyful life raising three children and building strong, lasting ties in every community they touched. Their love and commitment to each other was evident to all who knew them, and their shared legacy continues in the lives they nurtured and the community they enriched.

Later in life, that same generosity and spirit of caring were returned to her by her close friends including by “the Hood,” the amazing families of Six Mile Point, who helped teach the next generation how to create a chosen family. Polly’s children wish to express their deepest thanks to these cherished friends who supported her through the past years with visits, phone calls, shared meals, and countless gestures of love. Your presence and care meant the world to her—and to us.

She is survived by her brother, Paul Parrott; her children, Shannon Varner Renckens and wife Jenn Varner Renckens of Saugerties; Patrick Renckens and wife Shannon Bennett of Saco, Maine; and Beth Gibbons and husband Mike Gibbons of Ypsilanti, Michigan.

She is also survived by her seven grandchildren: Keegan and Finnegan Renckens; Lilian and Cecelia Renckens; and Jonah, Patrick, and Andrew Gibbons.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to donate to the Richfield Springs Food Pantry or a food pantry in your own community, honoring Polly’s lifelong dedication to helping others. Polly’s family welcomes all to gather in remembrance, wearing floral patterns in her honor and joining in laughter, stories, and shared grief.

Calling Hours:

Wednesday, June 11, 2025, from 4:00 to 6:00 PM
Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown, NY

Funeral Mass:

Thursday, June 12, 2025, at 11:00 AM
St. Mary’s “Our Lady of the Lake” Roman Catholic Church, 31 Elm Street, Cooperstown, NY
Interment to follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Index

Leland A. Woodbeck

1946 - 2025

HARTWICK – Leland Alfred Woodbeck, 78, passed away Friday afternoon, May 30, 2025, with his family by his side at his home in Hartwick.

He was born June 17, 1946, in Worcester, one of seven sons of Howard B. Woodbeck, Sr. and Lillian Edna Tompkins Woodbeck.

A graduate of Cooperstown Central School, Class of 1966, he began working at the age of 19 for the Clark Foundation, and served as an electrician with them until his retirement.

Woody will be remembered by his family, of whom he was extremely proud, as the best uncle and brother anyone could ask for. A well-known and important part of the Hartwick and Cooperstown communities, he was always willing to help others. He was a phenomenal electrician, and enjoyed farming, cutting firewood and family BBQs. His feisty character and sometimes irreverent sense of humor will be missed by his family and many friends.

Leland is survived by two brothers, Carlton Woodbeck and his wife, Cathy of Hartwick and Herbert Woodbeck and his wife, Jo, of North Carolina, and by many nieces and nephews, including Melissa S. Wayman and her husband, Ben of Mt. Vision, John Elliott (who was raised by Woody and who he considered his father) and his girlfriend, Jamie Kirby of Hartwick, Amanda Travers and her husband, Alex of Mt. Vision, and Steven Woodbeck and Carlton Woodbeck, Jr. of Hartwick. Woody will especially be missed by his beloved dog, Seamus.

Woody was predeceased by four brothers, Howard B. Woodbeck, Jr., Alton Leon Woodbeck, Raymond L. Woodbeck and Herman Donald Woodbeck, Sr.

Family and friends may call at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home from 11 a.m. until 12 Noon on Friday, June 6, 2025. At the conclusion of the visitation, a Funeral Service will be held at the funeral home with Kaler Carpenter, Pastor of River Street Baptist Church in Oneonta officiating. Interment will follow in Hartwick Cemetery.

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

Thomas J. Cross

1943 - 2025

STAMFORD – On May 25, 2025, Thomas J. Cross from Stamford, age 81, left this world to create his eternal garden in our heavenly realm.

Tom was born to Joseph and Anna Cross in South Amboy, New Jersey, in 1943. He grew up loving to hunt and fish nearby. His father taught him to plant a garden and reap the harvest that would be redeemed by hard work. Later in life Tom grew quite passionate in his love of gardening and it showed through the lovely gardens that he created. Tom told stories of clam digging and fishing in the nearby waters in New Jersey. He loved it, and he would fish the streams for trout later when he moved to New York. His love for the outdoors also led to hunting. With these hobbies, he would incorporate produce or the catch of the day into culinary delights as a gifted home chef. Tom loved to share his skills serving redolent and savory dishes every day. His skills showed by entertaining often, sharing what he had caught, hunted or foraged that day. He can be remembered by his fine wine, fine food and fun times.

Tom’s talent didn’t stop there. He also loved to photograph his beloved flowers and captured them in beautiful snapshots, carefully framed and perched on the walls of his home gallery.

He would tell the stories of when he was a teenager, he would sneak to NYC. Too young to get into the clubs, he would listen to the din of jazz music making its way to his ears and forming a love that would last his lifetime. A love of jazz greats like Miles Davis and John Coltrane would play as he fixed his favorite gourmet dishes for family and friends. His ardent love of music would often turn into an upbeat tempo and the night might have left you dancing into the wee hours of the night.

Tom loved the sounds of nature as well. He brought those sounds inside by creating an indoor aviary, full of exotic birds… finches, parakeets, love birds, doves and more… the house wasn’t quiet until the lights were out.

He attended school at St. Mary’s High school then went on to the Navy. Having served, he then went on to become a junior chemist at Bristol and Merck. His love for music didn’t wane, though, and he worked at Record Town and had his own record store in a college town in New York. He loved to meet the college kids and their share taste in music. Tom eventually worked as a fence installer then started his own business, Custom Fence, which he owned for many years until he retired.

Thomas is predeceased by his parents. Survivors include his sisters, Rita (Ben) Gruda and Carol (Les) Wilson. Tom's children from his first marriage to Margaret; Tom (Stephanie), Scott (Darcy) and Sandra (JP) Maritz. Also, Tija Cross, his loving second wife to which he was married to for 20 years. He is also survived by his beloved little Westie, Willie. Tom leaves behind grandchildren and great grandchildren.

There will be no visiting hours or service. Please remember Tom's slight smile and raise a glass of port in his memory.

Mary E. Dunkle

1929 - 2025

COOPERSTOWN – Mary E Dunkle passed away peacefully on May 23, 2025, just shy of her 96th birthday.

She was born on May 30, 1929, to Kenneth Edwards & Mildred Gregg Edwards in Sussex, NJ. When Mary turned one, they moved to manage a family farm in Wayne County, PA. She graduated from Damascus High School and then from East Stroudsburg State University and became a teacher.

She married John Kiernan in 1950, and divorced in 1969. They had 2 daughters. She taught in Ithaca and Sherburne, but finished her career in 1978 in North Salem Schools in Northern Westchester County.

In 1972 she married Edwin Dunkle of Katonah. With Ed she purchased a camp on Lake Otsego where they would spend weekends and summers. Ed passed in 1979. Mary then sold the camp and purchased her home in the Village of Cooperstown, where she retired in 1984.

Mary had many interests. Sailing with the Otsego Sailing Club, skiing, and hiking each Tuesday with the Susquehanna Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. She enjoyed sewing with the Presbyterians, knitting, overnight education trips with grandchildren, cooking for friends, volunteering, and was a crossword fanatic. Mary was involved in the beginning of the Glimmerglass Opera Guild and was President of Opera Guild International. She also was a great Friend of Bassett. She loved arranging fundraisers and was known for her fabulous parties. She was a master of entertaining.

Mary traveled the world and would collect ornaments from all over. She would decorate her home every Christmas with the ornaments and recruit her friends to assist. Her collection is close to 1000 pieces.

Mary was predeceased by her parents, her sister Eleanor Edwards Pallis, brother Arthur Edwards, and nephew Daniel Pallis. She is survived by her daughter Sandra Kiernan Fowlston (Tim) and her daughter Meg Kiernan (Mike), her grandchildren, Clint Fowlston (Vannesa), Jack Fowlston (Bryanna), Kate Haynes (Kenneth), Meg Rathbun (Tom), and Molly Hernandez (Dan). Also survived by her great-grandchildren, Brie, Brooke, Jayden, Camden, Owen, Kiernan, Penelope and Stetson. Also surviving are her step-children Steven, Eric and Denise Dunkle.

We invite her friends to join us for Mary’s last party which will be held Sunday, June 8, 2025, at 4 p.m. at Cooperstown Coworks, 6 Doubleday Court, Cooperstown.

In lieu of flowers we encourage you to donate to the Glimmerglass Opera Guild PO Box 491 Cooperstown, NY 13326 or the Friends of Bassett, One Atwell Road Cooperstown, NY 13326.

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

Marlene J. Malone

1932 - 2025

COOPERSTOWN – Marlene J. “Lee” Malone, a long-time Cooperstown resident who was actively involved in many aspects of village life as a business owner and dedicated public servant, passed away Friday evening, May 23, 2025, at Cooperstown Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing . She was 93.

Born April 17, 1932, in Chicago, Illinois, Lee was a daughter of Vincent J. and Margaret M. (Demy) Pacini. After graduating from high school, she attended Loyola University.

On January 8, 1953, Lee married Thomas William Malone in Greenwich, Connecticut.

A licensed insurance agent for many years, Lee began her career with Allstate Insurance Company in Huntington on Long Island.

In 1971, the Malones moved to Cooperstown when Tom purchased the Hotel Pratt on Pioneer Street. Lee continued in the insurance industry, first as an agent and later as a marketing representative, with the Lewis L. Wilson Insurance Agency, which was purchased in 1988 by Colonial Insurance and located at 169 Main Street in Cooperstown. Lee also assisted her husband in owning and operating the Hotel Pratt until he retired in 1992.

For many years Lee served the Cooperstown community, a place she truly loved. She served on the Village Board of Trustees for several terms, and also served through the years on the Village’s Finance and Personnel Committee, Planning, Publicity and Entertainment Committees, the Board of Park Commissioners and as Deputy Mayor. One of her proudest accomplishments was spearheading the renovation of the bandstand in Lakefront Park. Lee served twice as President of the Criterion Club, and she also served the wider community as a three-term member of the BOCES Board of Directors and as a Hospice volunteer for six years.

Despite her years of community activity, Lee was always quick to say that her proudest achievement was her family, of whom she was extremely proud.

Lee is survived by her four daughters, Susan Trainor of Ronkonkoma, Gwen Malone of Cooperstown, Nancy Tallman and husband, Jim of Cooperstown, and Carol Jennings and husband, Chip of Cooperstown; grandchildren Eamon Trainor and wife, Megan, Meaghan Rose Trainor, Clayton Weeks and wife, Hiromi, Ryan and Michael Jacobson, Brooke Tallman, Jared Tallman and wife, Allison, Adam Jennings, and Kerri Jennings Graber and husband, Chad; great grandchildren Abigael Trainor, Finn and Kai Weeks, Colin, Riley, Molly and Andrew Bowen, Claire and Nolan Tallman, and Ella and Everly Graber; plus several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Tom Malone, who died October 30, 2002, and her son-in-law, William F. Trainor, who died March 1, 2013.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at St. Mary’s “Our Lady of the Lake” Roman Catholic Church in Cooperstown, with the Very Rev. Michael G. Cambi, pastor, officiating. Immediately following the Mass there will be a time for refreshment and fellowship in the Parish Hall.

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

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

Donald P. Brown

1948 - 2025

Donald P. Brown, a former resident of Schoharie County who most recently had been residing at Heritage at The Plains at Parish Homestead in Oneonta, entered into eternal life Friday night, May 16, 2025, at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown. He was 77.

Born January 22, 1948, in Amsterdam, Donald was a son of Gordon Stewart Brown and Erma (Edens) Brown.

In recent years, Donald was a delivery person for Meals on Wheels in Schoharie County.

He is survived by a sister, Jean A. Brown of Amsterdam, and a good friend, Shirley Cole of Summerville, SC.

There will be no services.

Mary Lou Friedlander

1933 - 2025

SLINGERLANDS—Mary Louisa (Cloon) Friedlander passed away peacefully on April 29, 2025, at Little Falls Hospital following a brief illness.

Mary Lou was born on May 15, 1933, in Ironwood, Michigan to the late Mary Louisa (King) and William Gabriel Cloon, and was very proud of her childhood in the UP. After graduating from Northwestern University and Chicago Wesley Memorial School of Nursing in 1955, Mary Lou worked as a clinical nurse at Chicago Lying-in Hospital, where she met her future husband, the late Robert L. Friedlander, M.D. While in college, Mary Lou pledged Alpha Chi Omega and remained a very proud supporter throughout her life. She was also fiercely devoted to the Northwestern University Wildcats football team.

Mary Lou and Bob were married in Ironwood, Michigan, on November 27, 1960, and settled immediately in Norfolk, Virginia, where Mary Lou worked as a nurse while Bob, a naval medical officer serving with the 6th Fleet, rejoined his ship, the USS James C. Owens, then touring the Mediterranean. After two years’ active service, Mary Lou and Bob moved to Albany when a former mentor asked Bob to join him at Albany Medical Center Hospital as an instructor and chief resident in obstetrics and gynecology (a noted OB-GYN, Bob would eventually serve as dean and president of Albany Medical College). Except for a brief stay in Salt Lake City, Utah, where Bob completed post-doctoral work in steroid biochemistry, Mary Lou and Bob remained life-long residents of Delmar and then Slingerlands.

Mary Lou’s early years in Upstate New York were spent supporting her husband’s busy, on-call obstetrics and gynecology practice and raising their two daughters (Suzan, Cooperstown and Rebecca, Reno, Nevada). Mary Lou also invested her energy and time ensuring that future generations of girls and women had more opportunities. Her impressive volunteer work included supporting the Delmar Dolfins Swim Club, fundraising with the Pan-Hellenic Council to help provide young women with college scholarships, and ensuring that the local high school was Title IX-compliant by helping establish a girls’ varsity swim team.

Some of Mary Lou’s favorite things included reading (particularly British history), receiving travel-related refrigerator magnets from friends and family, licorice, watching collegiate football and basketball, and cats. In fact, she often quipped that her obit could simply say “she loved cats” and that would be enough. Her Wildcats football faith was ultimately rewarded when her husband paid out a bet he never thought he’d lose—a dream trip to watch her beloved Wildcats play in the 1996 Rose Bowl. In her final years, her greatest delights were following Suzan’s career as a museum professional and being Rebecca’s number one competitive swim fan.

Mary Lou was predeceased by her husband; brother William G. Cloon Jr.; and brother- and sister-in-law Joe and Margaret (Friedlander) Cohen.

She is survived by her daughters, Suzan and Rebecca; sister-in-law Leonora “Nony” Cloon; nephews William Gregory Cloon (Melissa, William G., and Robert G.), Daniel Cohen (Wendy Wallace), David Cohen (Michelle Kaplan, Joshua, Samuel, and Olivia); and niece Alicia (Cohen) Lynn (Phillip, Griffin). Mary Lou was especially proud of her grand-nephews, grand-niece, and grand-canine Addie. She loved their visits and phone calls, and hearing about everything they were accomplishing!

Suzan and Rebecca would like to thank the staffs at St. Peter’s Hospital (Emergency; Surgical; McAuley) and Little Falls Hospital (Emergency; 3 East) for their exceptional care; and “The Debbies” for their bi-monthly visits, often with Wyatt, Mary Lou’s special canine friend.

No services will be held.

Donations to honor Mary Lou and her commitment to education, the arts, and animals can be made to Northwestern University, Alpha Chi Omega, Glimmerglass Opera, or the SPCA of your choosing.

Robert K. Lee

COOPERSTOWN – Robert K. Lee, 81, passed away peacefully on April 23, 2025.

Born in Glens Falls to EK and Lucille Lee, Rob excelled in wrestling during high school and earned the honor of becoming a decorated Eagle Scout. He graduated from Hartwick College in 1965 where he continued his passion for wrestling, and went on to receive his master’s degree from Ohio University in 1967.

After completing his studies, Rob embarked on an adventurous journey, backpacking through the islands of Japan with a close friend before volunteering for the Peace Corps, where he was stationed in Guam for two years.

In the early 1970s, Rob settled in the Cooperstown area, where he originally worked as a stonemason, married, and raised four children. Throughout his professional life, he pursued a variety of endeavors, including stonemasonry, marketing, advertising, and real estate development. However, his true passion was real estate, where his natural ability to connect with people shined, and which he continued to practice into the final year of his life.

Rob was a voracious reader and loved spending time outdoors. He enjoyed racquet sports, hunting, fishing, and any activity that brought him into nature.

He is survived by his four children, Tyler, Justin, Kristina, and Chase, who will forever cherish his adventurous spirit, deep love of learning, and connection to the outdoors.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Rob’s memory may be made to any of the following environmental organizations:

World Wildlife Fund
The Nature Conservancy
Environmental Defense Fund (EDF)

Jonathan Talbot Ross

1963 - 2025

COOPERSTOWN – Jonathan T. Ross, 61, passed away peacefully in his sleep, in his cabin, on his land in Hinman Hollow where he was his happiest. A longtime resident of Cooperstown and the surrounding area, Jonathan was a known favorite within the community. Nicknamed Jonny Bench for his reserved seat in Pioneer “Farkel” Park in Cooperstown, he will be truly missed by all dear friends and family.

Jonathan was born on May 7, 1963, in Passaic, New Jersey, to James and Barbara Ross. He was raised in Monmouth Beach, New Jersey, Rumson, New Jersey, and Cooperstown. During his early years he would become one of Madison Avenue’s top high fashion child models, along with his siblings, Alyssa and James Jr. Throughout the 1960s and 70s he modeled with many well known actors such as Wilhelmina and Brooke Shields, and appeared on Flip Wilson’s “Fifth Dimension” television show episode. He was also photographed many times by the famed photographer Otto Stupakoff. Along with his beloved siblings, they became very sought after and successful in the child modeling world of that time, seen often in catalogs and magazines such as J.C. Penney, “The New York Times Magazine,” and “Harper’s Bazaar” for labels like Lord and Taylor and Saks Fifth Avenue. Jonathan was always said to have been the most successful model of all six of the Ross children.

Following a long career in childhood modeling, the family moved year-round to Cooperstown, where they had previously summered, when Jonathan was in high school. In 1980, Jonathan was chosen to play a soldier in the movie “The Private History of the Campaign that Failed,” based on a book by Mark Twain which was filmed in Otsego County. He spent his high school years working at the Peppermill as a prep cook, worked the rope tow at Mt. Otsego, and gardened for Mrs. Hadley in the summer months as well.

He graduated Cooperstown Central School in 1982, and then did a post graduate year of education at the Christchurch School in Christchurch, Virginia, along the Rappahannok River, where he sailed lasers and Sneakbox. Deciding college wasn’t his thing, he enlisted in the United States Coast Guard in 1983. First stationed in New Bedford, Massachusetts, on the USCG High Endurance Unimac from 1983-1985 and then in Oswego from 1985-1987. In Oswego, he handled boats that did summersaults! Upon leaving the USCG he moved back to Cooperstown and began employment at Bruce Hall Corp. as a delivery man, where he worked for several years. He also captained the Chief Uncas and Narra Mattah fon Otsego Lake for a spell, until retiring to his bench in Farkel Park.

Jonathan won the hearts of many with deep conversations and greetings over the years. One can honestly say it takes a village, and Cooperstown and its surrounding community loved and were loved by him.

He was predeceased by his parents, James and Barbara, as well as his dear sister Alyssa Eppich and brother James Ross, Jr.

He is survived by three brothers, Joshua and his wife Betsy Ross of Marshfield, Massachusetts, Sam Ross of Hinman Hollow, and Justin Ross of Fly Creek; nephews Angus and Bert Ross of Marshfield, Massachusetts, Colin Ross of Cherry Valley, and Gilly Ross of Cooperstown; nieces Sarah Eppich of Maine and Lucy Ross of Cooperstown; a brother-in- law Frederick Eppich of Saco, Maine; Aunt Judy and Uncle Bill Weber of New Hampshire; Uncle Jonny Maczko of New Jersey; and cousins Lori, Kim and Cheryl, Robbie and Ryan.

A Memorial Service will be offered at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 24, 2025, at Christ Church, Cooperstown, with the Rev’d Nathan P. Ritter, Rector officiating. Towards the conclusion of the service Military Honors will be accorded by the United States Coast Guard Funeral Honor Guard. Immediately following the services at church, all are invited to a party at the Ross family pond in Hinman Hollow at 242 Lippitt Road, Hartwick.

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

Martin H. “Marty” Phillips II

1970 - 2025

COOPERSTOWN – Martin H. “Marty” Phillips II, a beloved husband, father, uncle, brother and co-worker, passed away in the early morning hours of Friday, April 18, 2025, at his home on Christian Hill. He was 55.

Born April 11, 1970, in Glens Falls, Marty was the son of Martin H. and Glenda I. (Center) Phillips.

As a student in the Hudson Falls school system, Marty enjoyed participating in many sports, including football and wrestling. He was proud that he raised the most money for cancer by swimming laps in 1987. He enjoyed skiing at West Mountain and playing basketball with his friends. He reminisced about his excitement as a kid waiting outside of the Glens Falls Civic Center to meet a professional wrestler. He was proud of “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan, a Glens Falls Native! After graduating from Hudson Falls in 1989, he soon met Sherry Lynn Bartow. Relocating to Cooperstown, he and Sherry married on July 24, 1993.

Settling into the Cooperstown area that he would call home, Marty worked in the laboratory at Bassett Hospital. He then began a 26-year tenure at the United States Post Office as a Rural Letter Carrier, a job in which he excelled. Away from his postal route, Marty enjoyed playing golf, video games, cooking, landscape work, hunting, gathering friends for bonfires, and telling jokes. His sense of humor, delightfully old-fashioned and often involving puns and wordplay, became legendary among his family and friends.

Marty is survived by his beloved wife of 31 years, Sherry of Christian Hill, and their two children, Brandon Phillips (and girlfriend, Crystal) of Ilion and Marisa Phillips of Christian Hill; two siblings, David Phillips of Glens Falls and Laurie Ringer of Queensbury; his mother and father-in-law, Barbara and Jan Bartow of Middlefield; two sisters-in-law, Sue Markusen (and husband, Bruce) of Hartwick Seminary and Jenna Wratten of Milford; a brother-in-law, Mark Althiser (and wife, Fran) of Fly Creek; and aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, a nephew and a grandnephew.

Marty was predeceased by his mother, Glenda I. (Center) Floyd; his father, Martin “Marty” Floyd; and a brother-in-law, Dean Allen Wratten.

Marty’s family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, April 24, 2025, at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown.

A Funeral Service will be offered at 2 p.m. Friday, April 25, 2025, at the funeral home, with the Rev. Jessica Lambert, pastor of The First Presbyterian Church of Cooperstown, officiating.

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

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy can be made through memorial donations to the Susquehanna SPCA, 5082-5088 State Highway 28, Cooperstown, NY 13326, or to Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306.

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

Don Allan Oberriter

1937 - 2025

COOPERSTOWN – Don Allan Oberriter passed gently from this life into the arms of his Lord on the morning of April 11, 2025. Don was born in 1937 in Utica to John M. Oberriter and Bernice Ellen (Denielt) Oberriter. He graduated from Utica Free Academy, Class of 1955, and attended the University of Vermont for 2 years, majoring in Hotel & Resort Management.

In January 1961, Don was inducted into the Army at Los Angeles, CA where he stepped forward to take the Oath of Service, serving honorably at Fort Ord, Monterey, CA, at Redstone Arsenal, Huntsville, AL, and at Loring Air Base, Limestone, ME, with the 10th Ordinance detachment of Fort Devins, MA. There he was a Nike Ajax & Hercules missile and launcher technician and repairman servicing missile sites surrounding Loring Air Base. He was proud of having been promoted to Specialist 5th Class in his 19th month of service. He was honorably discharged in January 1963.

In his youth and young adult years, Don was an avid skier. His parents were accomplished skiers and Don, his brother and sister were all skiing by the age of 4. As members of the Snow Ridge Ski Club in Turin, they were soon racers. Don’s career spanned 30 years and over 200 sanctioned races. In 1954, he won the Catskill Downhill at Belleayre ski area while still a junior racer. In 1965, as a member of the Snow Ridge Club Racing Team, he raced in Switzerland and Austria of which he was especially proud. He continued enjoying skiing until he was 82.

As a sports car enthusiast, he attended with his father the 1950 and 1951 races in Watkins Glen where he fell in love with Porsches. He later owned two — a 1961 356 Coupe and a 1965 356 C Cabriolet, both of which he raced in amateur events and showed on Concourse (the beauty contest of cars…the cars were vey shiny!).

In his later life, Don was an avid golfer, sharing his passion for the sport with many friends while playing at Leatherstocking Golf Course and Otsego Golf Club.

On October 26, 1968, he and Sharon Ann Murphy were married at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, Utica. He always credited Sharon, an English teacher at New Hartford Central School, with increasing his word power and smoothing his rough corners. They enjoyed 57 years together as partners in all they did.

Following the sale of the Oberriter family restaurant in New Hartford, in 1975, Don and Sharon opened Obies Brot Und Bier, a beer and sandwich bar in Cooperstown. It was a quick success and created enduring memories for many in Cooperstown and beyond. In 1981, Don’s restless brain focused on launching the Cooperstown Bat Company with Sharon. Through the years it became a national manufacturer of player and artistic bats for the burgeoning sports memorabilia market. After 28 years they sold it in 2009 and it continues to thrive today after 44 years.

Throughout his life, Don believed in community involvement which led to numerous business, social, veteran’s and sports organizations: Eastern Amateur Ski Association, US Amateur Ski Association (1953-1975), Sports Car Club of America, Porsche Club of America, the Over 70 Ski Club, the Mohican Club of Cooperstown, Lions Club of Cooperstown, Cooperstown Chamber of Commerce, serving as a director 1978 - 1982, and Otsego County Chamber of Commerce.

Don approached life with great enthusiasm. He especially enjoyed the many people he met and his appreciation of their talents led to many life-long friendships. He particularly valued the many young people he had the privilege to employ and the opportunity to mentor as they grew in experience. He considered himself blessed by knowing them. He was happy anytime he could bring a smile and a laugh or tell someone how special they were. Life in Cooperstown gave him many close friends with whom he celebrated the joys of raising a family and being part of a close-knit community.

Don was predeceased by his parents, his infant son Aric Allan, his brother John Roger, his sister-in-law Natalie Oberriter, and his brothers-in-law Dan Guida and Terry Murphy.

He is survived by his wife, Sharon, son Andrew (Abby), daughter Megan (Timothy) Dinneen, grandchildren Lucy and MacArthur Oberriter and Maxwell and Indiana Dinneen, his sister Donna Cheryl Guida, sister-in-law Mary Murphy, nephews Matthew Murphy (Kristen), Jim Oberriter (Angel), Carl (Antoinette) Oberriter, nieces Kiersten Garrison (Randy Suzuki) and Monica Guida-Houghton (Richard) and many great nieces and nephews.

Don lived by a philosophy of helping others and paying it forward to friends and strangers. Please consider a donation to Cooperstown Food Pantry or to your favorite charity in his memory.

Calling hours are from 5 -7 p.m. Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at Connell, Dow and Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, May 1, 2025, at St. Mary’s “Our Lady of the Lake” Roman Catholic Church, 31 Elm Street, Cooperstown, with the Very Rev. Michael G. Cambi, Pastor officiating. The service will be followed by a gathering of friends in The Parish Center directly behind the Church.

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

Will Cohea

1955 - 2025

RICHFIELD SPRINGS – William “Will” Harvey Cohea III, of Richfield Springs, passed from this life into eternal life Friday morning, April 4, 2025, at his home surrounded by family. He was 69.

Born on May 30, 1955, to Rev. William “Bill” H. Cohea, Jr. and Mary Wimberly Cohea in Pittsburgh, PA, Will followed his father and the rest of the growing family as it moved to New Jersey and then Chicago’s northern suburbs. He attended elementary and middle school in Evanston. Will was an active, athletic kid, and he loved playing with trains and slot cars, backyard sports with neighborhood kids, fishing and listening to rock ‘n’ roll on WLS-AM on his portable transistor radio.

When the family moved to Winter Haven, FL, in 1971, Will took to the outdoors, working extra jobs to earn enough to buy a boat for fishing expeditions on nearby lakes, accompanied usually by his dog Shep. (The boat was named The Dee Dee Boo, after the dog’s nickname.) He began high school at Winter Haven High where he made the JV football team and was quite the tanned and buff young man at the many pool parties held out back of the house.

The family moved back north in 1973, taking residence in a row house near Fullerton Seminary in uptown Chicago. He graduated the next year from Lakeview Academy in Chicago. Out of high school, Will took photography classes and worked in the restaurant business before relocating to Pennsylvania in 1990, taking residence at Columcille with his father Bill. There he studied massage therapy and assisted with many projects at the flourishing megalithic park, creating paths into the woods, carrying and raising stones for the construction of the St. Oran Bell Tower, keeping the grounds and taking photos at events.

He met his future wife, Sarah Totin when she rented one of the apartments at Columcille and the two married in 1996.

Subsequently they lived in nearby Bangor in a house which Will completely renovated, including an office and treatment room for his massage business, a stone wall across the front and a lavish recreation area with Koi pond in back. There, Will also developed a photography business and did many shoots for local events, businesses and individuals.

When Bill Cohea passed in 2018, Will was on hand for his memorial in the St. Columba Chapel, which Will helped build in 1979 and where he and Sarah had exchanged wedding vows in 1996.

As part of their retirement plan, Will and Sarah moved to upstate New York in 2020, purchasing a Victorian house in Richfield Springs. There Will continued to hone his skills as a craftsman working on many projects renovating their 130-year old house. Will often took the dogs for a walk in a nearby hayfield, and many of his later photographs meditated on the play of light and shadow in that serene expanse.

Will’s cancer journey began in 2022 with a three-year battle using both traditional and alternative therapies. To the end, Will maintained a productive and happy life with Sarah.

A recent DNA test by a relative led to Will making a late-in-life connection with his son Paul Helsdon of Chicago, and the two spent a happy weekend together telling life stories and searching for common traits between them.

Will is survived by wife Sarah Totin Cohea, their dog Memphis, his son Paul Helsdon and brother J. David Cohea and sister Molly (Cohea) Tims, both of Florida. Will is predeceased by father Bill, mother Mary and brother Timm.

A service To the Glory of God and in Thanksgiving for the life of William H. Cohea III, will be offered at 3 p.m. Saturday, May, 17, 2025, at The First Presbyterian Church of Cooperstown, 67 Pioneer Street, Cooperstown, with the Rev. Jessica D. Lambert, Pastor officiating. Immediately following the service there will be a time for refreshment and fellowship in The Chapel.

On June 8, 2025, Will’s cremated remains will be interred in The St. Columba Chapel located in The Columcille Megalith Park in Bangor, PA.

Memorial donations may be directed to The Deacon’s Fund at The First Presbyterian Church of Cooperstown, 25 Church Street, Cooperstown, NY 13326, or Columcille Megalith Park, 2155 Fox Gap Road, Bangor, PA 18013.

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