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

Jim Kozak

COOPERSTOWN, NEW YORK – Herbert James Kozak, Jr., known to everyone as Jim, of Cooperstown, New York, passed away at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown on Thursday, December 4, 2025. He was 83.

Born March 25, 1942, at Martha Washington Hospital in Chicago, Illinois, Jim was the son of Herbert James Kozak, Sr. and Therese Marie (Fischer) Kozak. He was raised in Des Plaines, Illinois.

After high school, Jim attended art school and worked in the hotel business. He worked his way up the ladder at Pheasant Run Resort in St. Charles, Illinois, and later went on to be Catering Manager at Sawmill Creek Resort in Sandusky, Ohio, and finally became the Director of Conference Services at The Otesaga Resort Hotel in Cooperstown, New York, where he worked until retirement.

Jim’s hobby was sketching and painting and his house was decorated with some of his artwork. His family home in Des Plaines, Illinois, contained a lovely scenic mural covering a living room wall painted by Jim. In the words of his gracious employer, Jane Clark, “Jim was incredibly kind and a gentleman to the core.” He enjoyed cherished time with former co-worker and dear friend, Josie Bliss, whose family also embraced him. Matthew Boyles became his health care proxy in his final aging years. Several others in the Cooperstown area who are not named here are appreciated for their kindness toward him as well.

Jim is survived by his brother-in-law Jack Dellorto, nephews Jack (Kumi) Dellorto, Mike (Janet) Dellorto, his niece Mary (Rey) Elizondo all of Aurora, Illinois and his nephew Dan (Gail) Dellorto of Bryant, Arkansas, as well as nine great nieces & nephews and seven great-great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Barbara Dellorto and nephew Jim Dellorto.

His remains will be interred with those of his parents at St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Sarasota, Florida.

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.

Frederic Blatt

FLY CREEK – Frederic Blatt passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on December 3, 2025. To all who knew him, Fred was the embodiment of kindness, thoughtfulness, and quiet strength—a genuine gentleman in every sense of the word. He was a loving husband, a devoted father, and a deeply cherished grandfather whose gentle spirit and steady warmth brought comfort and joy to those around him.

Fred was born November 19, 1949, in White Plains. He graduated from Horace Mann School, received his Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Pennsylvania and a Master’s of Education from the University of New England.

Fred and his beloved wife, Laurie, shared a bond grounded in love, gratitude, and unwavering companionship. Together, they appreciated every moment life offered, walking hand in hand through both the ordinary days and the extraordinary ones. Their partnership was a testament to commitment, tenderness, and a shared appreciation for beauty and joy in the world around them.

Fred was a devoted father to daughters Zandra Blatt and Jaimie (Manny) Reyes, and son, Chris (Ashley) Bertino. He was also a loving and playful grandfather to Quinn Lott, Murphy Bertino, Madelyn Reyes and Cooper Bertino.

A gifted artist, Fred expressed himself through sculpture, painting, and various other mediums. His works reflected his unique sensitivity, imagination, and deep understanding of form and emotion. Beyond his own creations, Fred was an inspirational teacher who encouraged others to explore their creativity with confidence and curiosity. His guidance uplifted countless students, leaving a lasting impact on their lives and artistic journeys. After retiring, Fred volunteered at the Clara Welch Thanksgiving Home teaching art to the residents.

Fred was predeceased by his parents, Rose and Ben Blatt, and his brother, Paul Blatt. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy lives on—in the art he created, the lessons he shared, and the love he poured into his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

May his memory be a blessing, forever carried in the hearts of those who loved him.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Helios Care or the Clara Welch Thanksgiving Home.

Brian F. Murphy

Brian ‘Pops’ Fredrick Murphy, age 73, passed away at home, with his family at his

side November 19, 2025.

Brian ‘Pops’ was born on April 21, 1952, in Sharon, Connecticut, to Charlotte and

James Murphy. As a child, he spent many hours with his siblings on his family

farm in Amenia, as well as the Camp on Twin Lakes. He loved to boat, fish, and

water-ski, all traditions that he shared with his own children, spending much

family time on the water with them.

Brian spent most of his professional life as a Corrections Officer, always

appreciating the Human Experience of the prisoners. He was keenly aware that we

all make mistakes; it’s just that some of us make bigger mistakes than others, an

attitude that extended a great respect from his colleagues, as well as the prisoners

that he guarded.

Brian also served in the Air National Guard, entering at the age of 35, and became

known as ‘the old guy’ who was in better shape than the younger ones. It was

during this time that he met his lifelong friend Chris Williams.

He was a volunteer for many years, serving as a fire fighter in Amenia Fire

Department, the Cooperstown Fire Department, and most recently the Millerton

Fire Department. He was also active in the EMS squad in Cooperstown.

Brian is survived by his son Brian James Murphy, his partner Tassha and her son

Taylor; his grandson Shamus, granddaughter Molly, and their mother Katherine;

his daughter Kim Dolan; his siblings Bob, Andy, Larry, Kathleen, Adrienne, and

Elizabeth; his former wife Nancy Kelly; several cousins, nieces, nephews; and

countless friends.

He was predeceased by both of his parents and his beloved daughter Laurel Hayes

Murphy.

A Celebration of Life will take place Saturday, December 13, 2025, at 1 p.m. at the

Millerton Fire Department, 24 Century Blvd., Millerton, NY

In lieu of flowers, please feel free to contribute to the Millerton Fire Department!

Amy S. Degner

NEW LISBON – Amy S. Degner, age 45, of New Lisbon, left this world far too soon on Friday, November 21, 2025, at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown after a brief but courageous battle with illness. Surrounded by love, she entered into eternal life, carrying with her the same gentle spirit she gave so freely to everyone she met.

Born December 9, 1979, in Cobleskill, Amy Sue Degner was the cherished daughter of Richard Degner and Roberta “Bobbie” Brown. Raised in the Cooperstown area, she graduated from Cooperstown Central School with the Class of 2000 and completed the BOCES Career Pathways program, always ready to lend a hand and brighten any room she walked into.

It was behind the counter at McDonalds in Hartwick Seminary that Amy met Robert W. Perry, the love of her life. For 25 years they built a beautiful life together in New Lisbon, filled with laughter, quiet evenings, and an unbreakable bond. They became engaged, promising forever; and in the hearts of those who knew them, that promise still holds.

Amy was a devoted mother to their daughter, Sam, the light of her world. She poured her whole heart into being Sam’s mom and took immense pride in watching her grow.

She leaves behind those who loved her most: her fiancé Robert: her precious daughter Sam; her mother Bobbie Brown of Morris; her father Richard Degner of Georgia; her sister Tisha Degner (Joe Yager) of Otego; her brother Dan Degner (Alyssa Degner) of North Carolina; her aunts Debbie Bowen (Tom), Bonnie Degner, Patty Cooper (Jim) and Lori Ford; her uncle Tony Brown (Alyece); a beloved grandmother; and a large extended family of nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews and cousins who will carry her memory forward.

Everyone who knew Amy felt her warmth. She was the neighbor who showed up with a casserole when times were hard, the friend who listened without judgment, the one whose quiet strength held people together. Her kindness was never loud – it didn’t need to be. It simply was, like sunshine on an ordinary day.

In one final act of generosity, true to the giving heart she always had, Amy shared the gift of life through organ donation, allowing her light to live on in others.
Family and friends are invited to gather and share memories from 4 to 6 p.m. on Friday December 12, 2025, at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown.

A joyful celebration of Amy’s life will be held in the summer of 2026, when the world is green and bright again – just the way she loved it.

Though her time here was brief, Amy’s love was vast. She will be remembered as a loving daughter, a fiercely devoted mother, a loyal sister, a steadfast partner, and a trusted friend. Her family finds comfort knowing that wherever she is now, she is at peace, wrapped in the same love she gave so freely.

Rest gently, sweet Amy. You are missed beyond words and you are loved eternally.

Robelle Edith (“Susie”) Streek

COOPERSTOWN – Susie Streek, a long-time and beloved resident of Cooperstown, NY passed away peacefully on November 8, 2025, in Greenwich, CT, surrounded by her loving family. She was 84.

Born on April 4, 1941, in Oceanside, NY, Susie was the youngest of two children of Robert Polson and Isabelle Hoyt.

In 1959, after graduating from Mepham High School in North Bellmore, NY, Susie worked as a bookkeeper for Helena Rubenstein.

Susie married her high school sweetheart, Ronald Streek, on March 20, 1960. In 1966, Ron and Susie moved upstate from Bayshore, NY to Fly Creek, and eventually settled into their home on Main Street in Cooperstown in 1984. It was here that they owned and operated Main Street Bed and Breakfast for over four decades.

The B&B flourished, developing a reputation for a hearty breakfast and warm hospitality. Visitors were charmed by Susie’s engaging personality and generous spirit. The front porch of their beautiful Queen Anne Victorian home was a particularly favorite spot for her to sit and watch the world go by, sharing time with family and friends from dawn to dusk.

In addition to their B&B, Ron and Susie raised 4 children while operating numerous business ventures in the auto repair and auto parts industry.

Susie’s life was enriched with many deep and precious friendships. She opened her home and heart to anyone in need, and everyone knew there was no request too big or inconvenient for her. Susie also loved animals of all types, but her cats always had a special place in her heart and in her home.

Susie was very active in the Cooperstown community and served in executive roles at the Village of Cooperstown Board of Parks; as a trustee of the First Presbyterian Church of Cooperstown; and as a member of the Cooperstown Rotary Club, the Cooperstown Women’s Club, and the Lions Club of Cooperstown. She also volunteered at the Mary Imogene Basset Hospital.

Susie was well known for her annual role as Mrs. Santa Claus during Cooperstown’s Community Christmas celebration. She could be seen riding down Main Street in a festive horse-drawn carriage with Santa Claus at her side, tossing candy to the children lining the sidewalks and helping to ring in the holiday season.

Susie is survived by her beloved daughters Sandy Streek of Charlottesville, VA, Annette Voreyer (Robert) of Greenwich, CT, and Patricia Klink (Michael) of Sunset, SC. She was also blessed with five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Susie was predeceased by her husband of 65 years, Ronald Max Streek, son Sean Ronald Streek, and brother, Robert Polson.

A service in celebration of Susie’s life will be offered at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at the First Presbyterian Church of Cooperstown, with the Rev. Jessica D. Lambert officiating. A reception at the church will follow the service.

Susie will be laid to rest with her family in the Hartwick Seminary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, family and friends can celebrate Susie’s life with donations in her memory to 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.

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.

Alex Webster

COOPERSTOWN – In the early morning hours of Tuesday, October 28, 2025, Alex Webster, a well-known and respected restaurateur in Cooperstown and Cherry Valley, passed away unexpectedly at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown. He was 63.

Born Alexander Law Webster on February 4, 1962, at UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles, California, he was the youngest son of David James Webster and Lucy Ann Law Webster.

Raised in London, British boarding schools, and the gift shop of the United Nations in NYC, Alex lived an adventure-filled life. After graduating from art college in London, he purchased the John Deere farm machinery showroom in Roseboom as an artist’s studio. Before settling permanently in the area, his eclectic journey included working at Café Flore in San Francisco, NYU film school, a stint as a fashion photographer, driving a NYC yellow taxi, and living on a sailboat in Key West.

A madly creative soul, he fell in love with food, taught himself to cook, and eventually opened a restaurant, Alex & Ika, in the old bowling alley in Cherry Valley, serving whatever wild notion came to him. For 10 years, he and his wife, Ika, worked very hard, building a restaurant that gained critical acclaim, while raising their two young sons, largely in the kitchen. He would later move Alex & Ika to Cooperstown, along with parts of the old bowling alley, which he fashioned into tables and the bar. He repurchased his original Cherry Valley space, opening Cantina de Salsa, and later, Alex. Through the years, Alex changed the food offerings and names of his restaurant at 149 Main Street in Cooperstown to include Cantina de Salsa and Alex’s World Bistro. All were a perfect distillation of his unique personality and wonderful wild artist’s heart. His restaurants, decorated in his own eclectic and bohemian way, reflected him, and were always the place to gather with family and friends in comfortable surroundings and partake of great food and drink. He fed the hearts and souls of this community.

Alex lived his life authentically, unapologetically and with a creative spirit. He had vision for every ripe tomato, every spice, every piece of driftwood or rusty metal he encountered. He loved his family fiercely and built with his wife, Jeannine, a life centered around community, amazing food, endless curiosity, and constant debate.

Beneath the sometimes-blustery exterior, he had a gentle soul and cared deeply about the environment and inhabitants of planet Earth.

In recent years, Alex was employed by Otsego 2000 as the Market Manager for Cooperstown Farmers’ Market, a job he loved with people he loved.

The world has lost a bit of magic and is much blander now that he is gone. Rest easy, Chef.

Alex is survived by his wife, Jeannine R. Webster of Cooperstown; his children, Oskar and Lukas Webster, Melissa Mistry, and Alex and Cate Bohler; his mother, Lucy Webster; his brother, Daniel Webster; his stepmother, Elizabeth Drew, and a circle of dear friends and family. He was predeceased by his father, David Webster and his beloved nanny, Pat Clark.

A gathering in celebration of Alex’s life will be held at 4 p.m. Saturday, December 6, 2025, at The Cooperstown Farmers’ Market.

As a way to honor a remarkable and unique life, please consider a memorial donation to the Cooperstown Farmers’ Market or Lions Club SNAP match program. Checks can be made out to Otsego 2000 with “Farmers’ Market” or “Lions SNAP Match” in the memo line. Donations can be mailed to Otsego 2000, PO Box 1130, Cooperstown, NY 13326 or made online at otsego2000.org. Designation of funds can be made in the comment line.

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

Frances Kirby Forster

COOPERSTOWN – Frances Kirby Forster, loving wife and mother, passed away early Saturday morning, October 4, 2025, at the age of 90 at Cooperstown Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing.

Fran was born on December 9, 1934, in Mickleton, New Jersey, moving with her family to Seaview, Virginia, then back to Mickleton in 1941, and finally to Westville, New York, in 1945 where the family lived and worked on a dairy farm.

In 1952, she graduated from Milford High School and then attended Albany Business College. She worked for William Sherman, Director of the Otsego County Probation Office as a secretary before marrying Henry Forster in 1955. They lived in Oneonta for three years where Henry attended Hartwick College and Fran worked as a secretary at the Homer Folks Hospital. In 1958, they moved to Sodus where Henry taught the sciences. Fran attended Oswego State College for two years, then two years at Oneonta State College earning a degree in childhood education.

In 1962, the couple moved to Fly Creek Valley on a 97-acre farm raising Christmas trees, making fishing lures and selling fishing bait. Henry taught science at Edmeston Central School and Fran taught kindergarten for 19 years at the Richfield Springs Central School.

In 1963 and 1966 two sons were born, namely Eric Henry and Mark Alexander. Mark passed away in 1989 and Eric in 2014.

Frances and Henry retired in 1985 and spent winters in Florida where they fished and swam in the Suwannee River and the Gulf of Mexico.

Henry passed away in 2013. In 2021, Fran moved to the Clara Welch Thanksgiving Home.

Fran was a great lover of music and art. In her younger years, she enjoyed painting, playing the piano and singing. Later, from 1999 to 2014, she helped her son, Eric, on the family’s organic farm raising vegetables for local farmers markets.

Her brother, Allan, and sister, Alva, are both deceased. Fran is survived by her nephew Jeffery Kirby (Debra, deceased) their daughters Kaelin Kirby and Alexandra Scammell (Bradley), their daughter Gianna Scammell, also the family of her nephew Timothy Kirby (deceased) (Denise) and his sons Wesley, Daniel, and Thomas, also sister-in-law Dorthy Forster and daughter Michele (Jason) and their children Hannah and Owen and sister-in-law Annaliese Bettiol (Art, deceased) and children Michael (deceased), David, Daniel and

Karen.

Frances’ ashes will be scattered around the family’s oak tree, joining her husband and two sons.

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

Theodore P. Feury, Jr.

COOPERSTOWN – Theodore Patrick “Tim” Feury, Jr., passed away Monday afternoon, October 27, 2025, at his home in Cooperstown. He was 82.

Born March 4, 1943, in Utica, to Theodore Patrick Feury and Kathryn Marsh, Tim’s father missed his birth as he was serving on the USS Saratoga in the Pacific Ocean as a naval officer during World War II. After the war, his father resumed his career as a Cooperstown attorney.

Raised in Cooperstown, Tim graduated from Cooperstown Central School (CCS) with the Class of 1961. His first job, in high school, was custodian at the Baseball Hall of Fame. He was in the first pair of students to be awarded the Scriven Scholarship (now called the Clark Foundation Scholarship). At CCS he served as the president of his senior class, and was a member of the 1961 undefeated CCS Redskins basketball team. Interesting to note: Tim, and the rest of the starting five, all wore glasses, and were coached by Paul Lambert, father of the current Coach Lambert. Tim’s team was inducted into the CCS Athletic Hall of Fame in 2008, the year it was formed.

After graduating high school, Tim attended St. Lawrence University in Canton where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics, and was a member of Phi Kappa Sigma fraternity and the Sports Editor of the school newspaper, The Hill. He later earned his Masters in Statistics from the University of Chicago.

On Sunday, March 10, 1968, Tim married Dianne Ellen Graham in a ceremony at the Cooperstown United Methodist Church.

His career began as a Commissioned Health Services Officer, Lieutenant Commander, Statistician at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia, during the Vietnam War.

He then launched his long actuarial career at The Hartford Insurance Group in Hartford, Connecticut, continued at Security Mutual Life in Binghamton and retired as Assistant Vice President/Chief Actuary from Blue Cross Blue Shield in Syracuse. Over the years, Tim always held the position of pitcher on his company softball teams.

Tim loved to travel, hike, cross country ski, play tennis and golf, attend symphony concerts, and watch basketball and baseball, always remaining a Brooklyn Dodgers fan. He continued to play basketball into his later years and finished his career in the men’s league at the Clarks Sports Center. He was also proud of his accomplishment of driving the 18th green at the Leatherstocking Golf Course (during a winter’s deep freeze).

Tim was an active member in the Chenango Bridge Methodist Church, Manlius United Methodist Church and the Cooperstown United Methodist Church, serving as treasurer of the two latter. Tim served on the board of the Lakewood Cemetery Association and was a faithful member of the Cooperstown Methodist Men’s breakfast group. In addition, in retirement Tim became a Master Gardener with Cornell Cooperative Extension in Cooperstown.

Tim is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 57 years, Dianne, of Cooperstown; their son, Theodore P. “Ted” Feury III of Cooperstown and his children, Charlotte Dianna, Theodore William and Timothy Patrick Feury; their daughter, Margit Kathryn “Meg” Feury Ragland and her husband, George Arthur “Gar” Ragland, Jr. of Asheville, North Carolina and their children, Kathryn Kessler, George Ridge and Graham Arthur Ragland; and a sister, Ellen Feury Levine and her husband, Harry, of Princeton, New Jersey and Cooperstown. Tim was also much loved by his brothers and sisters-in-law and dozens of nieces and nephews.

A private graveside service will be held in Lakewood Cemetery, Cooperstown, where Tim will be laid to rest near his parents.

Dianne, Ted and Meg would enjoy hearing or receiving written stories about Tim, delivered to 4 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown, or via email.

Expressions of sympathy in the form of memorial donations may be made to Cooperstown United Methodist Church (ctownumc@gmail.com), Spina Bifida Foundation of NYS (https://sbanys.org), or Mercy Medical Angels (https://www.mercymedical.org).

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

Shirley M. Monroe

HARTWICK – Shirley M. Monroe, a long-time resident of Hartwick, entered into eternal life early Monday morning, October 27, 2025, at her home on South Street. She was 82.

Born May 17, 1943, in Naugatuck, Connecticut, Shirley was the daughter of Walter J. and Ernestine Jennie (Tabor) Monroe. As a child, she and her family lived in the Naugatuck and New Haven areas of Connecticut. In 1948, they returned to their native Hartwick, where in 1952 they built their home on South Street. She graduated from Hartwick High School.

After high school she married John T. Renwick, Sr. and settled in Hartwick where they had their three children. She was a stay at home mom until the late 60’s when they separated. Thereafter, she worked for the Oneonta Dress Factory where she honed her sewing skills and later worked at Sam Smith’s Boatyard and was convenience store managers for the Red Barrel/Country Cornermart, Stewarts and others. She ultimately retired from ARC Otsego in Hartwick where she worked as a bus aide.

In her younger years she enjoyed camping at the family camp in the Adirondacks, dancing, sewing, crocheting, and animals – dogs and horses in particular. She was a member and secretary of the Three Rivers Coon Hunting Club in Unadilla for many years. She was caregiver for her mother and older brother. She made friends everywhere she went with her kind nature; everyone was “sweetie or honey” and she had a quick wit and sense of humor. In her later years her time was spent with her toy poodles, Rugrat 1 and 2, watching Gunsmoke and game shows, going for short walks, looking forward to visits from her dear friend, Jeannie, Sunday outings with her daughters, and occasional visits with family and friends.

Shirley is survived by her two daughters, Dorraine S. Young and husband, Dale, and Debra L. Chickerell, all of Otego, and her son, Thomas J. Renwick and wife, Barbara of Westville; 9 grandchildren, Cassandra (Tim) Cuozzo of Morris, Justin Moore of Milford, Christin (Cameron) Bourn of Otego, Clayton (Samantha) Chickerell of Otego, Christopher (Becca) Renwick of Westville, Monica (Andrew) Knoll of Catskill, Adam Renwick of Sherburne, Michael Young of Otego and Dale (Jennifer) Young of Climax, NC; 15 great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews and her beloved toy poodle, Rugrat 2.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her two brothers, Gerald Douglas “Jerry” “Jiggs” Monroe who died May 8, 2022, and Ronald Walter “Red” Monroe who died February 21, 2024, and a sister, Nancy, who died in infancy. She was also predeceased by her former husband and father of her three children, John T. Renwick, Sr., who died April 12, 2014.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at the former Hartwick United Methodist Church now known as The Meeting House at 3080 County Highway 11, Hartwick. Immediately following the service there will be a gathering next door at the Hartwick Fire Department.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to the Hartwick Fire Department Company No. 1, PO Box 86, Hartwick, NY 13348 and the Hartwick Emergency Squad, PO Box 208, Hartwick, NY 13348.

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

Sue Ann Jenkins

PHOENIX MILLS – Sue Ann Jenkins, a lifelong resident of Phoenix Mills, entered into eternal rest at her beloved family home, Elmhurst. She was 72.

Born May 22, 1953, in Cooperstown, Sue Ann was the daughter of Ruby (Robinson) Jenkins and Arthur Jenkins, Jr. She grew up in her mother’s family home, Elmhurst, located alongside the Susquehanna River, with her parents, pets and extended family members. She enjoyed playing in the river and walks with her best friend and neighbor, Mr. Black, along the railroad tracks as he taught her about the native plants and animals and, importantly, that no one ever really owns nature. She also enjoyed visiting with her father’s family in the Catskills: her dad’s family farm in Lexington on the Schoharie Creek and her great aunt’s guest house and cabins on the Esopus Creek near Phoenicia where she met people from many countries who vacationed there.

Sue Ann graduated from Cooperstown Central School in 1971 and went on to complete the Freshman Foundation Year at Pratt Institute’s College of Art and Design in Brooklyn. While there she also met and campaigned for Shirley Chisholm who was running for the Democratic Primary for President in 1972. She then returned home to help her parents care for relatives, and to create a quilt design business eventually known as Threadbinder. Her designs were featured in many national magazines and several quilt and fine craft books. Her work was also sold through the Smithsonian Museum Shop. As well as maintaining her business, she worked for several years at the Cooperstown Art Association, weekends at the Upstate Home (now Springbrook) at their house in Worcester, the Red Cross, and for art conservators Sheldon and Caroline Keck, helping to assemble their 40 years of records and transferring them to computer discs via Mrs. Keck’s ancient computer, “Scheherazade.”

In the mid-nineties Sue Ann completed her degree through Empire State College, earning a B.S. with a double major in Art and Human Services. She then worked for the “Old Meadows” Nursing Home, first in the Supervising Nurse’s Office and later as an activity aide in the dementia wing. She also helped Dolores Coleman at Coleman’s Answering Service in Cooperstown.

She loved good friends, old movies, music, trips with her mother and with friends and Bernie Sanders.

Sue Ann survived two bouts with cancer in 2011 and 2013 with the help of Dr. Pat Gambitta, Dr. Renee Wellenstein and Dr. Joy Anderson, and especially her “lil sis” Diana Nicols, who stood by her from the moment of diagnosis, through surgery and treatments. Also, neighbor Heidi Parkhurst helped with those many trips to Syracuse. Pastor Maryellen Moore provided much appreciated spiritual strength through the years. With the “extra life” she was given, Sue Ann devoted herself to help countless others online, on the phone and in Zoom meetings who shared with her the daily challenges of Complex PTSD, bullying and grief.

Sue Ann is survived by many friends and relatives including cousins Ruth Cross of Windham, Lois Banks of Lexington, Janice Mabin of Ashland, Rev. David Robinson of Dryden and Lou Wimbish Mierzwa of Texas; second cousins include Tim Cross, Regina Cross (Dr. Joe Calabro), Sylvia Banks, Maureen Farrell, Bonnie (Paul) Varney, and Connie Jo Robinson.

She was predeceased by her parents, her “sweetie” Franklyn Pierce Smith and many beloved pets and friends.

Although it was Sue Ann’s request that there be no services, family and friends are invited to gather at 1 p.m. Monday, November 10, 2025, at the Fly Creek Valley Cemetery, 140 Cemetery Road, Fly Creek, where she will be laid to rest with her parents.

Memorial donations in Sue Ann’s memory may be made to the Herkimer County Humane Society, PO Box 73, Mohawk, NY 13407.

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

Richard H. Snyder

1945 - 2025

SCHENEVUS – Richard H. Snyder, a life-long area resident, peacefully entered into eternal rest surrounded by his family at his home in Schenevus late Tuesday night, October 7, 2025. He was 79.

Richard Harold Snyder was born October 15, 1945, in Cooperstown, one of seven children and the only son of John A. and Grace B. (Thayer) Snyder.

On February 28, 1968, Richard entered into active duty with the United States Army, and proudly served his country while stationed in Korea. He received his Honorable Discharge from the Military on February 8, 1970, and he returned to the States.

For many years he was employed as a machinist at Remington Arms Co. in Ilion.

Throughout his life, Richard was devoted to the Chicago Cubs-he was their #1 fan! He never missed a game, unless MLB had it blacked out, which would cause Richard to exclaim, “I just don’t understand why I can’t watch the game!” Through the years his consternation in such instances became amusing to those around him.

He loved Cooperstown and the heritage of his home town. He also enjoyed spending time playing Bingo with his wife, June, as well as spending time with family, especially with his boys, whom, when they were young, he often took fishing and taught them the game of baseball. Later he would coach them in Little League. He had a knack for telling a joke like no other, and his infectious laugh would cause others to laugh with him.

Richard his survived by his wife of 32 years, June A. (Cawley) Snyder of Schenevus; his two sons, Jammathon Snyder and his partner, Kim Schlosser, of Worcester, and Marquis Snyder and his partner, Nicole Carhart of Wilton; three grandchildren, Cory and partner, Kailey, Corrine, and Melissa and partner, Bobby; four great grandchildren, Ariya, Skylar, Luke and Avery; June’s son, Christopher Cawley and his son, Nathan, of North Carolina; a stepdaughter, Suzanne Schoonover and husband, Michael, of Edmeston, and their children Quinn, Sylas and Rylee; two sisters, Carol Lensi of Hilton Head, SC, and JoAnn Purdy of Remsen; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by four sisters, Joyce Drake, Shirley Byington, Marjorie Christian and Betty Jean Lindholm.

Family and friends are invited gather at 2 p.m. on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at the Fly Creek Valley Cemetery, 140 Cemetery Road, Fly Creek, where Richard will be accorded Military Honors. He will be laid to rest with his parents.

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

John Dunlap

1940 - 2025

COOPERSTOWN – John Dunlap, a local contractor known for his passionate concerns for truth and social justice, peacefully entered into eternal life Wednesday afternoon, October 1, 2025, at the New York State Veterans Home in Oxford with his family attending him in his last days. He was 85.

Born August 12, 1940, in New Rochelle he was given the name “Harold Jay Dunlap, Jr.” by his parents, Harold Jay Dunlap, M.D. and Rae Marguerite née Scranton Dunlap. A self-described “willful kid” he wanted to go by a first name of his own choosing, and picked the name “John” after his grandfather’s first name (John Jay Dunlap was named after John Jay, the first Chief Justice of the United States.)

John was raised in Westchester County, first living in Larchmont and then Scarsdale. During his high school years, he attended The Taft School in Watertown, CT. After graduating from there, he attended and earned a bachelor’s degree from Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, MD, where he was a humanities major with a concentration in English.

In boarding school, college, and his 5 ½ years in the United States Air Force, he enjoyed and excelled in playing football.

During his years in the military, John lived abroad in Asia. On his return to the United States in 1969 he joined International Voluntary Services, a precursor to the Peace Corps. He served as a college-level teacher in Laos for two years, then returned to the States and attended graduate school in northern Arizona. He then moved to Indonesia where he served as a teacher under a Fulbright Scholarship. It was during his years in Asia that the experiences and lifestyles he encountered shaped the simple lifestyle he led throughout the rest of his life.

In 1976, John once again returned to the States. With his friend, Leonard, he visited Cooperstown and wound up liking it so much that he decided to settle down in this area. He made a home for himself out of an old garage near The Hickory Grove Inn on State Highway 80. Shortly thereafter he began renovating a camp on Red House Hill Road which became his home. At his suggestion, The Presbyterian Church sponsored a Hmong family from Laos, bringing them from a refugee camp in Thailand to the U.S. The Lee family, a mother and five children lived with him for nine months. At that time, he was teaching school in Cherry Valley, but became disillusioned with the America educational system, quit teaching, and started his restoration contracting business in 1981.

About the same time, John met Karen Muehl, and they were married and had two children, Sarah Elizabeth and Timothy Andrew. It was John and Karen’s desire that their children should experience a different culture, so in December of 1992, they all moved to Monterrey, Mexico. John taught English at the Instituto Technológico de Monterrey. The family returned to Cooperstown in June of 1994.

During his years in the Cooperstown area, John was an active, devoted and faithful member of The First Presbyterian Church of Cooperstown, where he sang with The Chancel Choir and served on various boards and committees. His commitment to peace and justice led him to travel to Nicaragua with Witness for Peace in 1985. Locally, he invested in rental properties in part to improve low income housing options in the area.

John is survived by his wife, Karen Dunlap; their children, Sarah Dunlap and Tim Dunlap; two grandsons, Chase Dunlap and Jude Dunlap; sister Betsy (Jack) Erhard and brother George (Ann) Dunlap; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his niece, Jennifer Robin Stinnett.

A Memorial Service to the Glory of God and in Thanksgiving for the Life of John Dunlap will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, November 9, 2025, at The First Presbyterian Church of Cooperstown, 67 Pioneer Street, Cooperstown, with the Rev. Jessica Lambert, Pastor officiating. Immediately following the service there will be a time for refreshment and fellowship in The Chapel.

To honor John’s memory, memorial donations would be appreciated to the Alzheimer’s Association (www.alz.org) and The First Presbyterian Church of Cooperstown, to the attention of the Social Action Mission Team, 25 Church Street, Cooperstown, NY 13326.

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

Thomas F. Brennan

1961 - 2025

MILFORD – Thomas “Tom” Francis Xavier Brennan, beloved son, husband, father, and brother who was an attorney for the State of New York, entered into eternal life Friday night, September 5, 2025, surrounded by his family at his home in Milford following a seven-year battle with Multiple System Atrophy. He was 64.

Tom was born on January 26, 1961, in Brooklyn, the son of Patrick J. and Maureen (Duffy) Brennan. He attended St. Dominic High School in Oyster Bay, where he was a star player on the football team. He went on to attend Oberlin College, where he studied history and politics, played football and rugby, enjoyed the company of wonderful friends, and most importantly, met the love of his life, Jacinta “Cinta” Maria Jansen.

He attended St. John’s University School of Law. After graduating, he married Cinta in 1988 in Washington, D.C. Tom had a long and impressive career as a public servant. He worked as Deputy Inspector General for the City of New York Department of Investigation, an attorney for the State of California and the State of New York, in various offices, ending his career as the General Counsel of the NYS Higher Education Services Corporation in 2019. He was a tireless and passionate advocate for truth and justice.

Above all, Tom believed in the importance of building community through showing up for people and committing himself to causes he believed in. Passionate about public education, he served on the Milford Central School Board of Education for many years. He loved spending time with his daughters and their friends, and his passion for sports led him to naturally take on the role of coaching many soccer teams throughout their childhoods. When he wasn’t coaching, he could be seen yelling passionately in the stands at every game. Tom loved hiking, gardening, and exploring his acres of land. A deeply curious person, he loved any project or task that required research. He loved reading, engaging in debate, and knew how to stir up a room. His laughter was contagious, and he found joy in living, even when MSA brought challenges. He never complained. He was a selfless and generous person.

Thomas is survived by his mother, Maureen Brennan of Cooperstown; his wife of 37 years, Jacinta, of Milford; their four daughters, Julia Brennan of Providence, Rhode Island, Emily Brennan and husband, Daniel Sparks, of Fayetteville, Arkansas, Fiona Brennan of Los Angeles, California, and Grace Brennan of Albany, New York; a sister, Eileen Brennan of Oyster Bay, Long Island; a brother-in-law, John Weale of Beaconsfield, Quebec, Canada; three nieces, Meaghan Espinosa and Sarah and Elizabeth Weale; a nephew, Daniel Espinosa; and fifteen nieces and nephews on the Jansen side.

He was predeceased by his father, Patrick J. Brennan, who died April 16, 2002, and a sister, Colleen Brennan Weale, who died October 12, 2024.

A celebration of life will be held at 1:00 pm on Saturday, September 13, at the Greater Milford Historical Association, 77 North Main Street, Milford, NY 13807.

To honor his memory, donations may be made to Helios Care: https://www.helioscare.org/donate/. The Helios staff took such good care of Tom and Cinta and made his final peaceful passage possible.

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

Amy R. Kukenberger

1969 - 2025

COOPERSTOWN – Amy R. Kukenberger, a lifelong area resident, peacefully entered into eternal life on Friday, August 29, 2025, at her home on Beaver Meadow Road. She was 55.

Born September 18, 1969, at A.O. Fox Memorial Hospital in Oneonta, Amy was the daughter of Frank A. “Sonny” Kukenberger, Jr. and Ruth Ann (Downs) Kukenberger. She was the beloved granddaughter of George “Pop” and Ruth Downs and Frank and Mary (Konchar) Kukenberger.

Raised in Cooperstown, Amy attended Cooperstown Central School and graduated with the Class of 1987. She went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from Utica College, graduating summa cum laude, and later earned her Juris Doctor from Thomas M. Cooley Law School in Lansing, Michigan, in 2011. During her studies she also completed an externship with the New York State Senate.

Amy was most recently employed as a real estate agent with John Mitchell Real Estate in Cooperstown, where she was known for her dedication to her clients and her love of the community she served.

A lifelong Episcopalian, Amy was a member of Christ Church in Cooperstown. She also believed strongly in community service—she had recently become a member of the Cooperstown Rotary Club and was actively involved with the Middlefield Historical Society.

She had a deep love for animals, especially her two beloved beagles, Dash and Candy, who brought her great joy and companionship.

Amy leaves behind her loving parents, Frank and Ruth Kukenberger of Cooperstown; her brother, Thomas Kukenberger and his wife, Amy; and their son, Ethan, all of Cooperstown. She will also be fondly remembered by her many aunts, uncles, and cousins, along with numerous dear friends whose lives she touched with her kindness and generosity.

The Office of the Burial of the Dead with Holy Eucharist will be offered at 11 a.m. Monday, September 8, 2025, at Christ Church in Cooperstown, with the Reverend Nathan P. Ritter, Rector, officiating. The Committal Service and inurnment will follow at The Ecumenical Columbarium in the churchyard at Christ Church.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in the form of memorial donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association in Amy’s memory.

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

Helen W. Gannon

1940 - 2025

COOPERSTOWN – Mrs. Helen W. Gannon, 85, passed away on August 25, 2025, in Hospice care at Medina Memorial Hospital in Medina. A devoted nurse, loving mother and grandmother, and lifelong volunteer, Helen’s life was marked by compassion, dedication, and deep love for family and friends.

Born on June 25, 1940, in the Flatbush Avenue section of Brooklyn, Helen was the daughter of Ernest and Anna Walther, both of whom emigrated from Europe seeking better lives in America. Helen learned the value of hard work early on, working in her father's grocery store and helping raise her younger brother.

Helen was a Brooklyn Dodgers fan (until Dem Bums left New York in 1957). Staying true to Brooklyn, she became a Mets fan when the team was founded in 1962 and remained one to the very end.

Helen graduated from Hartwick College in Oneonta, and became a registered nurse. She worked at Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown in many capacities over 34 years, but was proudest of her role as Head Nurse of Pediatrics and the love she gave to the children there. She later became a clinical instructor at BOCES and assistant supervisor at The Meadows Nursing Home in Otsego County. Through each position, Helen touched countless lives.

Helen married Truman Gannon in 1970, with whom she shared many years until his passing. Helen took great pride in her family and found immense joy in her granddaughters. She was predeceased by her husband Truman Gannon; her parents Ernest and Anna (Surin) Walther; brother Herman Walther; and half-sister Anna Surin. She is lovingly remembered by her son Richard and daughter-in-law Shannon Welch; granddaughters Aubrey, Taya, and Kaylin Gannon; brother Ernest (Maureen) Walther; sister-in-law Virginia Walther; nephew Robert Walther; nieces Donna (Scott) Noll, Andrea (Josh) Long, Lara Smith, Stephanie (Robert) Morlino; and seven great-nieces and nephews.

Helen was a lifetime member of the VFW Auxiliary, the Native Daughters of Cooperstown, the St. Peter Lutheran Church Ladies' Group, and served as Treasurer and Advancement Coordinator for Boy Scout Troop 1254 of Cooperstown. She also volunteered, knitting caps for newborns as well as patients undergoing cancer treatment, prayer shawls, and mittens for schoolchildren. Her hands were busy when there was someone to help or comfort.

Helen's legacy will live on in the warmth she brought to those she cared for, as a nurse, as a friend, and as family.

The family wishes to extend their thanks to Medina Memorial Hospital, the Second Floor staff, and Orleans County Hospice for their support and graciousness.

A memorial service will be held for Helen on September 28, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1355 West Avenue, Medina.

Donations can be sent to her favorite charity, Mary Cariola (Children's) Center: Walking on Sunshine (Team Taya), 1000 Elmwood Ave., Suite 100 Rochester, NY 14620 or online at https://marycariolacenter.salsalabs.org/walkingonsunshine2025/t/teamtaya in her honor.

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