Obituaries/Memorial/Death Notices week of July 24:
Martha Valorn Darling of 4906 Route 88, Sodus, and 4125 Route 14, Rock Stream, died Sunday, July 14, 2024 at home at her cottage in Rock Stream on Seneca Lake where she spent more than 65 years water-skiing, sailing, fishing, swimming and boating. She was 93.
She was born Aug. 31, 1930 in Sodus, daughter of John Raymond Valorn and Inez Belle Collier Valorn. Martha, known by her husband as “Marty,” was an area resident of Sodus for most of her life and an area resident of Rock Stream near Watkins Glen where she spent her summers for her entire life. She graduated valedictorian of her class at Sodus Central High School and then attended and graduated from U of R (University of Rochester). She married Charles Franklin Darling Sept. 19, 1953 and they were married for almost 70 years. It was rare to find the two apart. Martha was a lifelong member of the AMCA (Antique Motorcycle Club of America) and the EMPIRE Chapter. She was a member of the First Reformed Church in Sodus. Mrs. Darling was a dedicated educator, serving on the Sodus Central School board of education for almost 25 years, as well as the Scholarship Committee. She was a motorcycle enthusiast, and both she and Charles still have motorcycles on loan displayed at the Curtiss Museum in Hammondsport. Martha was an avid gardener and if she wasn’t sailing or watching boats and birds on Seneca Lake, you could find her out in the garden, reading a paper, or involved in one of the 100s of jigsaw puzzles she enjoyed greatly. Her family was everything to her and her entire life, even into her 80s, you could see her at her children’s and grandchildren’s soccer games, running events, volleyball, basketball, boy scouts, etc.
Martha was predeceased by her husband, Charles, of almost 70 years. She is survived by two children, Edward J. Darling and his wife Susan of North Rose, New York and Julie Ann Darling Sissel and her husband Mark of Rock Stream; and three grandchildren, Jonah, Isaiah and Seraphina. She recently was blessed to become a grandmother again to Mark’s son, Matthew Harmon Sissel, and his wife Seyeon.
Martha was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother, and she loved nothing more than to spend time with her family. Even the day before she went to be with her Lord, she was pointing and naming family members in a photograph collage made by her daughter-in-law, Sue. Family was her rock, and she was the rock of her family.
Visitation will be held Saturday, July 27 from 1 to 2 p.m. with the funeral service immediately following from 2 to 3 p.m. at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home in Watkins Glen. Interment will be at Rock Stream Cemetery in Rock Stream at 3:15 p.m. after the funeral service. The family is having a reception with food and refreshments at the family cottage at 4256 Kent Klub Road, Rock Stream, after the burial. We hope that everyone can stop and come together to celebrate, remember and share their special memories of Martha and her life. Memorial contributions may be made to the Martha Valorn Darling Sodus Central School Scholarship Fund or the First Reformed Church at Sodus. Checks can be made out to the church, or for the scholarship to Julie Sissel or Edward Darling.
Arrangements are by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 East Fourth St., Watkins Glen. Please visit their website for pictures, video, and more information at www.RoyceChedzoy.com.
Clifford LaRue, 92, of Rock Stream passed away July 6, 2024.
Clifford was born on Footes Hill in Burdett, the son of Archie and Helen (Kimble) LaRue.
Clifford worked as a forklift operator at Cargill Salt Company before retiring. He was also a store manager for The Market Basket in Spencer, Montour Falls, and eventually Watkins Glen, and later for Acme Markets in Watkins Glen. He enjoyed woodworking—making small furniture and birdhouses. He also enjoyed riding his motorcycle, camping, and traveling—visiting 46 of the states. He was a member of the former Seneca Chiefs Motorcycle Club for many years.
He was predeceased by his wife Marylou of 37 years, whom he married on Valentine’s Day in 1984. He was also predeceased by two brothers, Richard and Melvin LaRue.
He is survived by his son, Gary D. LaRue of Horseheads; daughters, Dawn (Carl) Butler of Chenango Forks, New York and Suzanne (Keith) Bishop of Montour Falls; step-daughters Dian (Carl) Silliman of Montour Falls and Debbie (Frank) Devine of Vermont; and sister Mary Lisowski of Montour Falls; nine grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.
According to his wishes there are no services. Remembrances and condolences may be left in his obituary at www.RoyceChedzoy.com.
Memorial donations in his memory may be made to the Schuyler County Humane Society, PO Box 427, Montour Falls, NY 14865 (www.SchuylerHumane.org) or a wildlife refuge of your choice. The Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home of Watkins Glen is assisting the family.
Ann M. Rathbun, 72, of Watkins Glen passed away Wednesday, July 17, 2024 at Cayuga Medical Center after a short battle with ovarian cancer.
She was predeceased by her parents, Marshall Wood and Mary Jane Swick.
Ann is survived by her significant other, Bryan Lotz of Watkins Glen; her children, Bobby Weber of Watkins Glen, Buzzie Weber of Trumansburg area; Edna (James) Roupp of Union Springs, New York; siblings, Ira Wagner of Auburn, New York, Marshall Wood Jr. of Waterloo and Judy L. Wood of Sunbury, Pennsylvania; Bryan J. Lotz of Dundee, Caomi K. Newcom of Dundee, along with many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Ann enjoyed farming, gardening, her plants and crocheting. She was “Ma” to half of Valois and was always a friend to all. She spent many years in the Valois and Hector area and the last 15 years in Watkins Glen.
Burial will be held Thursday, July 25 at 11 a.m. at Burdett Union Cemetery in Burdett. The family is being assisted by the Blauvelt Funeral Home, 625 Broad St., Waverly.
Those wishing to send a message of remembrance to Ann’s family may visit our Facebook page or at www.blauveltfuneralhome.com.
Death notices
MARTHA DARLING, 93, of Sodus and Rock Stream, July 14, 2024 at home in Rock Stream. Arrangements by Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.
MEGAN DUNHAM, 24, of Cameron, New York, July 13, 2024. Arrangements by Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.
CLIFFORD LARUE, 92, of Rock Stream, July 6, 2024. Arrangements by Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.
ANN M. RATHBUN, 72, of Watkins Glen, July 17, 2024 at Cayuga Medical Center, Ithaca. Arrangements by Blauvelt Funeral Home, Waverly.
She was born Aug. 31, 1930 in Sodus, daughter of John Raymond Valorn and Inez Belle Collier Valorn. Martha, known by her husband as “Marty,” was an area resident of Sodus for most of her life and an area resident of Rock Stream near Watkins Glen where she spent her summers for her entire life. She graduated valedictorian of her class at Sodus Central High School and then attended and graduated from U of R (University of Rochester). She married Charles Franklin Darling Sept. 19, 1953 and they were married for almost 70 years. It was rare to find the two apart. Martha was a lifelong member of the AMCA (Antique Motorcycle Club of America) and the EMPIRE Chapter. She was a member of the First Reformed Church in Sodus. Mrs. Darling was a dedicated educator, serving on the Sodus Central School board of education for almost 25 years, as well as the Scholarship Committee. She was a motorcycle enthusiast, and both she and Charles still have motorcycles on loan displayed at the Curtiss Museum in Hammondsport. Martha was an avid gardener and if she wasn’t sailing or watching boats and birds on Seneca Lake, you could find her out in the garden, reading a paper, or involved in one of the 100s of jigsaw puzzles she enjoyed greatly. Her family was everything to her and her entire life, even into her 80s, you could see her at her children’s and grandchildren’s soccer games, running events, volleyball, basketball, boy scouts, etc.
Martha was predeceased by her husband, Charles, of almost 70 years. She is survived by two children, Edward J. Darling and his wife Susan of North Rose, New York and Julie Ann Darling Sissel and her husband Mark of Rock Stream; and three grandchildren, Jonah, Isaiah and Seraphina. She recently was blessed to become a grandmother again to Mark’s son, Matthew Harmon Sissel, and his wife Seyeon.
Martha was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother, and she loved nothing more than to spend time with her family. Even the day before she went to be with her Lord, she was pointing and naming family members in a photograph collage made by her daughter-in-law, Sue. Family was her rock, and she was the rock of her family.
Visitation will be held Saturday, July 27 from 1 to 2 p.m. with the funeral service immediately following from 2 to 3 p.m. at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home in Watkins Glen. Interment will be at Rock Stream Cemetery in Rock Stream at 3:15 p.m. after the funeral service. The family is having a reception with food and refreshments at the family cottage at 4256 Kent Klub Road, Rock Stream, after the burial. We hope that everyone can stop and come together to celebrate, remember and share their special memories of Martha and her life. Memorial contributions may be made to the Martha Valorn Darling Sodus Central School Scholarship Fund or the First Reformed Church at Sodus. Checks can be made out to the church, or for the scholarship to Julie Sissel or Edward Darling.
Arrangements are by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 East Fourth St., Watkins Glen. Please visit their website for pictures, video, and more information at www.RoyceChedzoy.com.
Clifford LaRue, 92, of Rock Stream passed away July 6, 2024.
Clifford was born on Footes Hill in Burdett, the son of Archie and Helen (Kimble) LaRue.
Clifford worked as a forklift operator at Cargill Salt Company before retiring. He was also a store manager for The Market Basket in Spencer, Montour Falls, and eventually Watkins Glen, and later for Acme Markets in Watkins Glen. He enjoyed woodworking—making small furniture and birdhouses. He also enjoyed riding his motorcycle, camping, and traveling—visiting 46 of the states. He was a member of the former Seneca Chiefs Motorcycle Club for many years.
He was predeceased by his wife Marylou of 37 years, whom he married on Valentine’s Day in 1984. He was also predeceased by two brothers, Richard and Melvin LaRue.
He is survived by his son, Gary D. LaRue of Horseheads; daughters, Dawn (Carl) Butler of Chenango Forks, New York and Suzanne (Keith) Bishop of Montour Falls; step-daughters Dian (Carl) Silliman of Montour Falls and Debbie (Frank) Devine of Vermont; and sister Mary Lisowski of Montour Falls; nine grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.
According to his wishes there are no services. Remembrances and condolences may be left in his obituary at www.RoyceChedzoy.com.
Memorial donations in his memory may be made to the Schuyler County Humane Society, PO Box 427, Montour Falls, NY 14865 (www.SchuylerHumane.org) or a wildlife refuge of your choice. The Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home of Watkins Glen is assisting the family.
Ann M. Rathbun, 72, of Watkins Glen passed away Wednesday, July 17, 2024 at Cayuga Medical Center after a short battle with ovarian cancer.
She was predeceased by her parents, Marshall Wood and Mary Jane Swick.
Ann is survived by her significant other, Bryan Lotz of Watkins Glen; her children, Bobby Weber of Watkins Glen, Buzzie Weber of Trumansburg area; Edna (James) Roupp of Union Springs, New York; siblings, Ira Wagner of Auburn, New York, Marshall Wood Jr. of Waterloo and Judy L. Wood of Sunbury, Pennsylvania; Bryan J. Lotz of Dundee, Caomi K. Newcom of Dundee, along with many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Ann enjoyed farming, gardening, her plants and crocheting. She was “Ma” to half of Valois and was always a friend to all. She spent many years in the Valois and Hector area and the last 15 years in Watkins Glen.
Burial will be held Thursday, July 25 at 11 a.m. at Burdett Union Cemetery in Burdett. The family is being assisted by the Blauvelt Funeral Home, 625 Broad St., Waverly.
Those wishing to send a message of remembrance to Ann’s family may visit our Facebook page or at www.blauveltfuneralhome.com.
Death notices
MARTHA DARLING, 93, of Sodus and Rock Stream, July 14, 2024 at home in Rock Stream. Arrangements by Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.
MEGAN DUNHAM, 24, of Cameron, New York, July 13, 2024. Arrangements by Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.
CLIFFORD LARUE, 92, of Rock Stream, July 6, 2024. Arrangements by Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.
ANN M. RATHBUN, 72, of Watkins Glen, July 17, 2024 at Cayuga Medical Center, Ithaca. Arrangements by Blauvelt Funeral Home, Waverly.
Obituaries/Memorial/Death Notices week of July 17:
Glenda “Gigi” Siglin Cooke, 85, of Wayne went to be with her Lord and Savior Tuesday, June 18, 2024 at Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre, Pennsylvania after a brief illness. Gigi was born in Elmira March 26, 1939, the daughter of Dorothy Geiser Winkler and Leo Carl Geiser. She attended Thomas Edison High School in Elmira Heights.
She was a vendor at Montour Falls Farmer’s Market in mid-1970. Her career also included roles as catalog manager/buyer at Artistic Greetings, Elmira. Gigi was known for creating Angel Name Poems, which she sold at The Windmill, Penn Yan. Later, she ventured into real estate with Century 21 Sabarra & Wells in Penn Yan. Her passion for art continued into her later years with the founding of Tipsy Paint with Gigi Classes at Lost & Found Inn in Tyrone. She enjoyed her friends at the OWLS Club, Paint Class and Wayne Auxiliary.
Gigi is survived by her husband, Thomas Cooke; her daughters, Susan (Bernard) Baker, Bambi (Travis) Johnson and son Carl (Dawn) Siglin; stepchildren Liza (Craig) Bellaire, Virginia (Adam) Schrader, Thomas Cooke Jr., Leandra Cooke, Brandy Cooke, Mike Cooke, Barbie Lynk-Cooke, Jenifer Lynk-Cooke and Sabrina Carey-Cooke; several grandchildren and great- grandchildren; her brother, Norman (Patricia) Geiser; several loved nieces and nephews and many brothers- and sisters-in-law.
Family and friends are invited to a service to be held Sept. 7 at Tyrone United Methodist Church, 3647 Church Hill Road, Tyrone, at 11 a.m., officiated by Pastor Lee Capodagli, followed by a Celebration of Life at the Tyrone Volunteer Fire Department, 3600 NY-226, Tyrone.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be directed to the Schuyler Humane Society, PO Box 427, Montour Falls, NY 14865 or other charities of your choice.
Michael Paul Dencenburg, 67, of Beaver Dams gave up his brave fight Sunday, July 7, 2024 in the comfort of his favorite chair.
Honoring his wishes there will be no prior calling hours. Services will be private at the convenience of the family.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Altay Baptist Church, 4289 Six Corners Road, Dundee, NY 14837 or the Tyrone Fire Dept., P.O. Box 69, Tyrone, NY 14887.
Michael was born June 28, 1957 in Dundee, the son of the late Paul Kenneth and Atha-Lee (Lyle) Dencenburg. He graduated from Dundee Central School in 1975. He started in the work field laying asphalt before getting into construction and backhoe operator. He eventually took a position with Shepard-Niles until they sold, which he then went to work for U.S. Salt in Watkins Glen. He worked until his health failed beyond recovery. He married the former Cathy A. Yates Dec. 14, 1996 in Monterey, New York. He was a former member of the Tyrone Fire Department, and an avid hunter and fisherman. Michael loved mowing his lawn with a PBR, which is as close to Professional Bull Riding as he would ever get. When not working, or mowing the lawn, he was meticulously caring for his treasured garden, almost to the point of OCD obsession to keep it picture perfect just in case the editor of Better Homes & Gardens stopped by. Among his most cherished memories were the annual Maine trips when he would get to go lobstering with nephew Billy on his lobster boat even though they were in late December; the summer trips for tuna made up for the cold.
He is loved and will be forever missed by his wife of 27 years, Cathy A. Dencenburg at home; daughter Heather M. Dencenburg of Beaver Dams, sons Sean (Janice Rosemier) Dencenburg of Dundee, Raymond (Lidia) Roberts of Arvada, Colorado and Aaron (Shannon) Roberts of Elmira; 11 grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and brother Jeff (Sharon) Dencenburg of Hammondsport; along with several nieces and nephews.
Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his older brother Lyle Kenneth Dencenburg in 2022.
He personally wishes to publicly thank his daughter Heather for her unconditional love and care every single day. And he and his family extend a special thanks to Care First for making his final days more bearable and their continued support during this time.
Arrangements were entrusted to the Baird Funeral Home, 36 Water St., Dundee. Online condolences can be sent by visiting www.bairdfuneralhomedundee.com.
Mable B. Shoemaker, 90, of Horseheads passed away Sunday, July 7, 2024 at Bethany Manor in Horseheads.
There are no prior calling hours or formal services planned. Inurnment will be in Bath National Cemetery.
Mable was born Jan. 28, 1934 in Cayutaville, one of six daughters of Adam and Mary (Poklinkowski) Olevnik. She started her working career at Michael Stearns Clothing in Penn Yan, followed by a job at Akzo Salt. She married Arthur K. Shoemaker, best known as “K;” together they moved to Florida where she worked for Publix’s Grocery. They returned to New York and owned and operated a gas station in Bath for many years. In her spare time she enjoyed crafts, crochet and knitting.
She is loved and survived by three sisters, Helen Ketchum of Bath, Joyce L. (Charlie Glover) Youmans of Horseheads and Janice K. (Carl Stuck) Travis of Penn Yan; sisters-in-law Beverly Olevnik of Dundee and Doris Olevnik of Florida; along with numerous nieces and nephews.
Besides her parents and husband, she was predeceased by four brothers and two sisters.
Arrangements entrusted to the Baird Funeral Home, 36 Water St., Dundee. Online condolences can be sent by visiting www.bairdfuneralhomedundee.com.
On Saturday, June 15, 2024, Joyce Carol Stanley, 81, passed away at the Penn Yan Manor Nursing Home. Joyce was born April 3, 1943, in Buffalo, New York. Joyce grew up in Cheektowaga, New York. On Oct. 27, 1962, she married Ronald (Sonny) Stanley. In 1973 the family moved to the Penn Yan area.
Joyce’s life was centered on her family and her faith. She spent much of her time gardening, preserving the produce from the gardens and taking care of their five children. Joyce was baptized as one of Jehovah’s witnesses Feb. 17, 1973. She truly enjoyed the time she was able to spend in the ministry, telling her neighbors about Jehovah God and his promises for the future.
She was an independent sales representative for Avon at different times in her life. She spent three years selling in the early 70s in the North Tonawanda area. Late in the 1980s she again entered the ranks of Avon and spent the next 25 years building a successful business. She retired at the age of 70 and dedicated the rest of her life to the ministry. Surviving family members are daughter Ramona Ayres, son Ronald (Peg) Stanley, son Jeffrey Stanley (Jill Hoose), daughter Kimberly (Jeffrey) Morsch; grandchildren Bethany (Drew) Hall, Nathanael (Tashonta) Stanley, Sarah Stanley, Alyssa Stanley, Josiah Morsch and Noah Morsch; great-grandchildren Cayden Hall, Jalynn Hall and Colt Girruzi. Joyce was predeceased by her daughter Jennifer in 1989, her husband in 1998 and her son-in-law Michael Ayres in 2024.
A memorial service will be held July 21 at 3 p.m. at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 1600 State Route 54, Penn Yan.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made on JW.ORG or to Penn Yan Manor Nursing Home. We would like to thank all at the Penn Yan Manor Nursing Home for treating our Mom like family.
Death notices
JOANNE M. BEAM, 84, of Hammondsport, July 10, 2024. Arrangements by Bishop & DeSanto Funeral Home, Hammondsport.
GLENDA “GIGI” S. COOKE, 85, of Wayne, June 18, 2024 at Robert Packer Hospital, Sayre, Pennsylvania.
MICHAEL P. DENCENBURG, 67, of Beaver Dams, July 7, 2024. Arrangements by Baird Funeral Home, Dundee.
JUNE L. HALL, 94, July 5, 2024 at Ontario Center, Canandaigua. Arrangements by Weldon Funeral Home, Penn Yan.
CLIFFORD LARUE, 92, of Rock Stream, July 6, 2024. Arrangements by Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.
DONNA M. MCMICHAEL, 88, of Penn Yan, July 8, 2024. Arrangements by Weldon Funeral Home, Penn Yan.
DENNIS SHARKEY, 79, of Rock Stream, June 29, 2024. Arrangements by Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.
MABLE B. SHOEMAKER, 90, of Horseheads, July 7, 2024 at Bethany Manor in Horseheads. Arrangements by Baird Funeral Home, Dundee.
JOYCE C. STANLEY, 81, June 15, 2024 at Penn Yan Manor Nursing Home.
She was a vendor at Montour Falls Farmer’s Market in mid-1970. Her career also included roles as catalog manager/buyer at Artistic Greetings, Elmira. Gigi was known for creating Angel Name Poems, which she sold at The Windmill, Penn Yan. Later, she ventured into real estate with Century 21 Sabarra & Wells in Penn Yan. Her passion for art continued into her later years with the founding of Tipsy Paint with Gigi Classes at Lost & Found Inn in Tyrone. She enjoyed her friends at the OWLS Club, Paint Class and Wayne Auxiliary.
Gigi is survived by her husband, Thomas Cooke; her daughters, Susan (Bernard) Baker, Bambi (Travis) Johnson and son Carl (Dawn) Siglin; stepchildren Liza (Craig) Bellaire, Virginia (Adam) Schrader, Thomas Cooke Jr., Leandra Cooke, Brandy Cooke, Mike Cooke, Barbie Lynk-Cooke, Jenifer Lynk-Cooke and Sabrina Carey-Cooke; several grandchildren and great- grandchildren; her brother, Norman (Patricia) Geiser; several loved nieces and nephews and many brothers- and sisters-in-law.
Family and friends are invited to a service to be held Sept. 7 at Tyrone United Methodist Church, 3647 Church Hill Road, Tyrone, at 11 a.m., officiated by Pastor Lee Capodagli, followed by a Celebration of Life at the Tyrone Volunteer Fire Department, 3600 NY-226, Tyrone.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be directed to the Schuyler Humane Society, PO Box 427, Montour Falls, NY 14865 or other charities of your choice.
Michael Paul Dencenburg, 67, of Beaver Dams gave up his brave fight Sunday, July 7, 2024 in the comfort of his favorite chair.
Honoring his wishes there will be no prior calling hours. Services will be private at the convenience of the family.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Altay Baptist Church, 4289 Six Corners Road, Dundee, NY 14837 or the Tyrone Fire Dept., P.O. Box 69, Tyrone, NY 14887.
Michael was born June 28, 1957 in Dundee, the son of the late Paul Kenneth and Atha-Lee (Lyle) Dencenburg. He graduated from Dundee Central School in 1975. He started in the work field laying asphalt before getting into construction and backhoe operator. He eventually took a position with Shepard-Niles until they sold, which he then went to work for U.S. Salt in Watkins Glen. He worked until his health failed beyond recovery. He married the former Cathy A. Yates Dec. 14, 1996 in Monterey, New York. He was a former member of the Tyrone Fire Department, and an avid hunter and fisherman. Michael loved mowing his lawn with a PBR, which is as close to Professional Bull Riding as he would ever get. When not working, or mowing the lawn, he was meticulously caring for his treasured garden, almost to the point of OCD obsession to keep it picture perfect just in case the editor of Better Homes & Gardens stopped by. Among his most cherished memories were the annual Maine trips when he would get to go lobstering with nephew Billy on his lobster boat even though they were in late December; the summer trips for tuna made up for the cold.
He is loved and will be forever missed by his wife of 27 years, Cathy A. Dencenburg at home; daughter Heather M. Dencenburg of Beaver Dams, sons Sean (Janice Rosemier) Dencenburg of Dundee, Raymond (Lidia) Roberts of Arvada, Colorado and Aaron (Shannon) Roberts of Elmira; 11 grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and brother Jeff (Sharon) Dencenburg of Hammondsport; along with several nieces and nephews.
Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his older brother Lyle Kenneth Dencenburg in 2022.
He personally wishes to publicly thank his daughter Heather for her unconditional love and care every single day. And he and his family extend a special thanks to Care First for making his final days more bearable and their continued support during this time.
Arrangements were entrusted to the Baird Funeral Home, 36 Water St., Dundee. Online condolences can be sent by visiting www.bairdfuneralhomedundee.com.
Mable B. Shoemaker, 90, of Horseheads passed away Sunday, July 7, 2024 at Bethany Manor in Horseheads.
There are no prior calling hours or formal services planned. Inurnment will be in Bath National Cemetery.
Mable was born Jan. 28, 1934 in Cayutaville, one of six daughters of Adam and Mary (Poklinkowski) Olevnik. She started her working career at Michael Stearns Clothing in Penn Yan, followed by a job at Akzo Salt. She married Arthur K. Shoemaker, best known as “K;” together they moved to Florida where she worked for Publix’s Grocery. They returned to New York and owned and operated a gas station in Bath for many years. In her spare time she enjoyed crafts, crochet and knitting.
She is loved and survived by three sisters, Helen Ketchum of Bath, Joyce L. (Charlie Glover) Youmans of Horseheads and Janice K. (Carl Stuck) Travis of Penn Yan; sisters-in-law Beverly Olevnik of Dundee and Doris Olevnik of Florida; along with numerous nieces and nephews.
Besides her parents and husband, she was predeceased by four brothers and two sisters.
Arrangements entrusted to the Baird Funeral Home, 36 Water St., Dundee. Online condolences can be sent by visiting www.bairdfuneralhomedundee.com.
On Saturday, June 15, 2024, Joyce Carol Stanley, 81, passed away at the Penn Yan Manor Nursing Home. Joyce was born April 3, 1943, in Buffalo, New York. Joyce grew up in Cheektowaga, New York. On Oct. 27, 1962, she married Ronald (Sonny) Stanley. In 1973 the family moved to the Penn Yan area.
Joyce’s life was centered on her family and her faith. She spent much of her time gardening, preserving the produce from the gardens and taking care of their five children. Joyce was baptized as one of Jehovah’s witnesses Feb. 17, 1973. She truly enjoyed the time she was able to spend in the ministry, telling her neighbors about Jehovah God and his promises for the future.
She was an independent sales representative for Avon at different times in her life. She spent three years selling in the early 70s in the North Tonawanda area. Late in the 1980s she again entered the ranks of Avon and spent the next 25 years building a successful business. She retired at the age of 70 and dedicated the rest of her life to the ministry. Surviving family members are daughter Ramona Ayres, son Ronald (Peg) Stanley, son Jeffrey Stanley (Jill Hoose), daughter Kimberly (Jeffrey) Morsch; grandchildren Bethany (Drew) Hall, Nathanael (Tashonta) Stanley, Sarah Stanley, Alyssa Stanley, Josiah Morsch and Noah Morsch; great-grandchildren Cayden Hall, Jalynn Hall and Colt Girruzi. Joyce was predeceased by her daughter Jennifer in 1989, her husband in 1998 and her son-in-law Michael Ayres in 2024.
A memorial service will be held July 21 at 3 p.m. at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 1600 State Route 54, Penn Yan.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made on JW.ORG or to Penn Yan Manor Nursing Home. We would like to thank all at the Penn Yan Manor Nursing Home for treating our Mom like family.
Death notices
JOANNE M. BEAM, 84, of Hammondsport, July 10, 2024. Arrangements by Bishop & DeSanto Funeral Home, Hammondsport.
GLENDA “GIGI” S. COOKE, 85, of Wayne, June 18, 2024 at Robert Packer Hospital, Sayre, Pennsylvania.
MICHAEL P. DENCENBURG, 67, of Beaver Dams, July 7, 2024. Arrangements by Baird Funeral Home, Dundee.
JUNE L. HALL, 94, July 5, 2024 at Ontario Center, Canandaigua. Arrangements by Weldon Funeral Home, Penn Yan.
CLIFFORD LARUE, 92, of Rock Stream, July 6, 2024. Arrangements by Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.
DONNA M. MCMICHAEL, 88, of Penn Yan, July 8, 2024. Arrangements by Weldon Funeral Home, Penn Yan.
DENNIS SHARKEY, 79, of Rock Stream, June 29, 2024. Arrangements by Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.
MABLE B. SHOEMAKER, 90, of Horseheads, July 7, 2024 at Bethany Manor in Horseheads. Arrangements by Baird Funeral Home, Dundee.
JOYCE C. STANLEY, 81, June 15, 2024 at Penn Yan Manor Nursing Home.
Obituaries/Memorial/Death Notices week of July 10:
Donna L. Gibson, 81, of Dundee passed away Thursday, July 4, 2024 at The Homestead in Penn Yan.
The family will receive friends from 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, July 10 at the Baird Funeral Home, 36 Water St., Dundee, where her funeral service will be held Thursday, July 11 at 1 p.m. Burial will be private in Hillside Cemetery, Dundee.
Donna was born in Union County, Pennsylvania, Oct. 27, 1942, a daughter of Donald and Blanche (Nogle) Tillinghast. Donna spent the majority of her childhood in Interlaken. She graduated from Interlaken High School, where she received a New York State Regents Scholarship. She went on to obtain her bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Keuka College and master’s degree in remedial reading from Elmira College. Possessing an incredible thirst for knowledge and unstoppable ambition, she also held certificates in school administration, driver education and computer science.
A woman of unwavering strength, Donna impacted countless lives as a teacher at Dundee Central School, where she broke barriers, as the first woman to serve as a negotiator for the Dundee Teachers Association. In 1991, following the death of her first husband, Lee Gibson, she took ownership of Sunrise Industries and was instrumental in shepherding the business forward. To her credit, the business remains in successful operation today, as Sunrise Insulation, under the ownership of son Tim Gibson. Following her retirement from DCS, she sold real estate from 2005 to 2015. She possessed an encyclopedic knowledge of family genealogy, local history, and she was a longtime, very active member of the Daughters of the American Revolution. She also greatly enjoyed time spent with her Aunt Pat Bilirakis.
She is survived by her brother, Jack (Sally) Tillinghast of Ovid; five children, Martin Gibson and Tim (Wendy) Gibson, both of Dundee, Kelly Bateman of Canandaigua, Sheldon (Brittany) Gibson of Dundee and Joe (Julie) Gibson of Dresden, along with 12 grandchildren, step-daughter Beth (Steve) Taylor of Dundee, two step-grandchildren, two step-great-grandchildren, extended family and friends.
In addition to her parents, Donna was preceded in death by her first husband, Lee Gibson, sisters Rita Cazalas and Sandy Ike, step-sons Jesse and Ralph Bishop, and her second husband Jack Bishop.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Daughters of the American Revolution. Donations may be made online: https://www.dar.org/giving/ways-give/donate-online.
Online condolences can be sent by visiting www.bairdfuneralhomedundee.com.
Death notices
DIANE M. BROWN, 60, of Penn Yan, July 2, 2024. Arrangements by Weldon Funeral Home, Penn Yan.
DONNA L. GIBSON, 81, of Dundee, July 4, 2024 at The Homestead, Penn Yan. Arrangements by Baird Funeral Home, Dundee.
ROXANNE M. PERRY, 66, of Rock Stream, July 2, 2024 at Schuyler Hospital, Montour Falls. Arrangements by Baird Funeral Home, Dundee.
JOYCE C. STANLEY, 81, June 15, 2024 at Penn Yan Manor Nursing Home.
The family will receive friends from 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, July 10 at the Baird Funeral Home, 36 Water St., Dundee, where her funeral service will be held Thursday, July 11 at 1 p.m. Burial will be private in Hillside Cemetery, Dundee.
Donna was born in Union County, Pennsylvania, Oct. 27, 1942, a daughter of Donald and Blanche (Nogle) Tillinghast. Donna spent the majority of her childhood in Interlaken. She graduated from Interlaken High School, where she received a New York State Regents Scholarship. She went on to obtain her bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Keuka College and master’s degree in remedial reading from Elmira College. Possessing an incredible thirst for knowledge and unstoppable ambition, she also held certificates in school administration, driver education and computer science.
A woman of unwavering strength, Donna impacted countless lives as a teacher at Dundee Central School, where she broke barriers, as the first woman to serve as a negotiator for the Dundee Teachers Association. In 1991, following the death of her first husband, Lee Gibson, she took ownership of Sunrise Industries and was instrumental in shepherding the business forward. To her credit, the business remains in successful operation today, as Sunrise Insulation, under the ownership of son Tim Gibson. Following her retirement from DCS, she sold real estate from 2005 to 2015. She possessed an encyclopedic knowledge of family genealogy, local history, and she was a longtime, very active member of the Daughters of the American Revolution. She also greatly enjoyed time spent with her Aunt Pat Bilirakis.
She is survived by her brother, Jack (Sally) Tillinghast of Ovid; five children, Martin Gibson and Tim (Wendy) Gibson, both of Dundee, Kelly Bateman of Canandaigua, Sheldon (Brittany) Gibson of Dundee and Joe (Julie) Gibson of Dresden, along with 12 grandchildren, step-daughter Beth (Steve) Taylor of Dundee, two step-grandchildren, two step-great-grandchildren, extended family and friends.
In addition to her parents, Donna was preceded in death by her first husband, Lee Gibson, sisters Rita Cazalas and Sandy Ike, step-sons Jesse and Ralph Bishop, and her second husband Jack Bishop.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Daughters of the American Revolution. Donations may be made online: https://www.dar.org/giving/ways-give/donate-online.
Online condolences can be sent by visiting www.bairdfuneralhomedundee.com.
Death notices
DIANE M. BROWN, 60, of Penn Yan, July 2, 2024. Arrangements by Weldon Funeral Home, Penn Yan.
DONNA L. GIBSON, 81, of Dundee, July 4, 2024 at The Homestead, Penn Yan. Arrangements by Baird Funeral Home, Dundee.
ROXANNE M. PERRY, 66, of Rock Stream, July 2, 2024 at Schuyler Hospital, Montour Falls. Arrangements by Baird Funeral Home, Dundee.
JOYCE C. STANLEY, 81, June 15, 2024 at Penn Yan Manor Nursing Home.
Obituaries/Memorial/Death Notices week of July 3:
Roger Beardslee passed away Thursday June 20, 2024 at his home in Hector on Seneca Lake. He was 82 years young.
He was born in Elmira Heights, March 18, 1942 to Erwin and Francis (Rogers) Beardslee. He grew up there, spending summers on Seneca Lake at the boathouse built by his Dad. Soon they built a cottage, and a lifelong love of Hector began.
He was an Eagle Scout, Troop Leader and Scoutmaster.
He graduated from Thomas A. Edison High School, went on to Corning Community College, then Bucknell University where he earned a master’s degree in mechanical engineering. He served two years in the Army and then worked for Corning Glass in melting technology, commuting from Hector by motorcycle in a suit and cowboy boots on every day it didn’t snow.
He was a VLH volunteer fireman and an elder at Hector Presbyterian Church.
He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Nancy Beardslee; his sons Brett Beardslee (Jesse) and David Butts (Trish Titone); grandsons Dylan, Jayson and Spencer; sister Ruth Bills and nieces Kate Bills Woods (Steve) and daughter Amelie, and Jenn Roedel (Carl) and sons Wilson and Cole. Also many friends from every age group.
Rog lived life at absolute full throttle. He loved hot tubs, saunas, sailing and all things fast, but most of all he loved to dance. Man, could he dance! A sweaty blur of momentum!
He was an exclamation point to the joy of being human, and on a quiet night when the lake is calm, you may still hear a resounding “Aaaarrrriba!!!” echoing off these hills, reminding us how lucky we are to be alive and call this place home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to VLH Fire Company, 5736 Route 414, Hector, NY 14841 or Hector Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 96, Hector, NY 14841. Services were held at the Hector Presbyterian Church Saturday, June 29 at 10:30 with a reception at the VLH Fire House at noon. Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home of Watkins Glen is assisting the family.
Death notices
ROGER BEARDSLEE, 82, of Hector, June 20, 2024 at home. Arrangements by Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.
DORWIN L. FINGAR, 81, of Bluff Point, June 27, 2024. Arrangements by Weldon Funeral Home, Penn Yan.
PATRICIA A. PERRY, 67, of Penn Yan, June 12, 2024. Arrangements by Weldon Funeral Home, Penn Yan.
WILLIAM R. ROMIG, 79, of New Jersey, formerly of Hammondsport, June 23, 2024. Arrangements by Bishop & DeSanto Funeral Home, Hammondsport.
He was born in Elmira Heights, March 18, 1942 to Erwin and Francis (Rogers) Beardslee. He grew up there, spending summers on Seneca Lake at the boathouse built by his Dad. Soon they built a cottage, and a lifelong love of Hector began.
He was an Eagle Scout, Troop Leader and Scoutmaster.
He graduated from Thomas A. Edison High School, went on to Corning Community College, then Bucknell University where he earned a master’s degree in mechanical engineering. He served two years in the Army and then worked for Corning Glass in melting technology, commuting from Hector by motorcycle in a suit and cowboy boots on every day it didn’t snow.
He was a VLH volunteer fireman and an elder at Hector Presbyterian Church.
He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Nancy Beardslee; his sons Brett Beardslee (Jesse) and David Butts (Trish Titone); grandsons Dylan, Jayson and Spencer; sister Ruth Bills and nieces Kate Bills Woods (Steve) and daughter Amelie, and Jenn Roedel (Carl) and sons Wilson and Cole. Also many friends from every age group.
Rog lived life at absolute full throttle. He loved hot tubs, saunas, sailing and all things fast, but most of all he loved to dance. Man, could he dance! A sweaty blur of momentum!
He was an exclamation point to the joy of being human, and on a quiet night when the lake is calm, you may still hear a resounding “Aaaarrrriba!!!” echoing off these hills, reminding us how lucky we are to be alive and call this place home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to VLH Fire Company, 5736 Route 414, Hector, NY 14841 or Hector Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 96, Hector, NY 14841. Services were held at the Hector Presbyterian Church Saturday, June 29 at 10:30 with a reception at the VLH Fire House at noon. Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home of Watkins Glen is assisting the family.
Death notices
ROGER BEARDSLEE, 82, of Hector, June 20, 2024 at home. Arrangements by Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.
DORWIN L. FINGAR, 81, of Bluff Point, June 27, 2024. Arrangements by Weldon Funeral Home, Penn Yan.
PATRICIA A. PERRY, 67, of Penn Yan, June 12, 2024. Arrangements by Weldon Funeral Home, Penn Yan.
WILLIAM R. ROMIG, 79, of New Jersey, formerly of Hammondsport, June 23, 2024. Arrangements by Bishop & DeSanto Funeral Home, Hammondsport.
Obituaries/Memorial/Death Notices week of June 26:
Colette Colleen Jackson, 49, of Elmira entered unto rest Tuesday, June 11, 2024 at home.
She was born in Detroit, Michigan, Dec. 11, 1974 the daughter of the late Frederick Nason Sr. and Shirley Ann Dillon and attended Dundee Central School.
Colette was a baker and a chef for many years. She loved her children and grandchildren with all she had. She was very free spirited and loved all. Colette loved her antiques and live free lifestyle. She enjoyed adventures, the outdoors, fishing and anything that had to do with family.
She loved Janis Joplin. As Janis says in her last song she produced, “That’s It!”
She is survived by her daughter, Amber Nason of Dundee; two sons, Jordan Jackson and Cody Jackson, both of Penn Yan; three sisters, Nadine (Ron) Stirpe of Pennsylvania, Rebecca Elya of North Carolina and Cindy (Ross) Dickinson of Tennessee; a brother, Frederick Nason of Michigan; three grandchildren, Landyn, Josiah and Elijah Nason; and by many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, June 29, from 12-4 p.m. at the Dundee American Legion, 10 Spring St., Dundee.
R. Joette McBride, 88, of Burdett passed away June 14, 2024, surrounded by her loving family in the comfort of her home.
The family received friends at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. Fourth St., Watkins Glen, Saturday June 22 from 2-4 p.m., followed by a private funeral service for the immediate family. She will be laid to rest with her husband at Hector Union Cemetery.
She was predeceased by her loving husband of 64 years, Donald “Peter” McBride in 2017.
She is survived by her five children, Gillian Huling of Geneva, Donn McBride of Endicott, Alan (Kathy) McBride of Bear, Delaware, Kym (Tim) Starkweather of Odessa and Andrea (Peter) Cherock of Watkins Glen; 15 grandchildren and 30 great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her great-granddaughter, Sofia McBride.
Joette was born in Detroit, Michigan, Aug. 31, 1935, the daughter of Reynolds and Ruby Matheny. She and her husband raised their children on their farm in Burdett. One of her favorite passions was gardening.
Joette was the director of the RSVP program with Cornell Cooperative Extension in Montour Falls for many years. Prior to her time with RSVP, she worked as a milk tester for Cornell. She and her husband were active in the Burdett Players, and later the Lake County Players. She was a member of the Watkins Glen Central School Board and Watkins-Montour Rotary Club.
You may express condolences to the family online at www.RoyceChedzoy.com. Those wishing to remember Joette, may consider a donation in her memory to a Schuyler County charity of one’s choice, or RSVP, c/o Schuyler County Office for the Aging, 323 Owego St., Unit 7, Montour Falls, NY 14865.
Death notices
KENNETH A. ANDERSON, 88, of Hammondsport, May 17, 2024. Arrangements by Bishop & DeSanto Funeral Home, Hammondsport.
ROGER BEARDSLEE, 82, of Hector, June 20, 2024. Arrangements by Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.
ANNE EMERSON, 78, June 6, 2024 in Penn Yan. Arrangements by Weldon Funeral Home, Penn Yan.
COLETTE C. JACKSON, 49, of Elmira, June 11, 2024 at home. Arrangements by Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.
KRISTINE L. MARONEY, 71, of June 7, 2024 at home. Arrangements by Weldon Funeral Home, Penn Yan.
R. JOETTE MCBRIDE, 88, of Burdett, June 14, 2024. Arrangements by Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.
NEAL R. MCGONIGAL, 77, of Watkins Glen, June 17, 2024 at home. Arrangements by Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.
TIM L. PERRY, 54, of Penn Yan, May 25, 2024 at home. Arrangements by Baird Funeral Home, Dundee.
ESTHER J. RECTOR, 90, of Penn Yan, June 13, 2024 at Penn Yan Manor Nursing Home. Arrangements by Weldon Funeral Home, Penn Yan.
GENE W. RHODE, 59, of Bath, June 10, 2024 at Ira Davenport Hospital, Bath. Arrangements by Baird Funeral Home, Dundee.
WILFRED “WILL” F. ROSS, 86, of Burdett, June 4, 2024. Arrangements by Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.
She was born in Detroit, Michigan, Dec. 11, 1974 the daughter of the late Frederick Nason Sr. and Shirley Ann Dillon and attended Dundee Central School.
Colette was a baker and a chef for many years. She loved her children and grandchildren with all she had. She was very free spirited and loved all. Colette loved her antiques and live free lifestyle. She enjoyed adventures, the outdoors, fishing and anything that had to do with family.
She loved Janis Joplin. As Janis says in her last song she produced, “That’s It!”
She is survived by her daughter, Amber Nason of Dundee; two sons, Jordan Jackson and Cody Jackson, both of Penn Yan; three sisters, Nadine (Ron) Stirpe of Pennsylvania, Rebecca Elya of North Carolina and Cindy (Ross) Dickinson of Tennessee; a brother, Frederick Nason of Michigan; three grandchildren, Landyn, Josiah and Elijah Nason; and by many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, June 29, from 12-4 p.m. at the Dundee American Legion, 10 Spring St., Dundee.
R. Joette McBride, 88, of Burdett passed away June 14, 2024, surrounded by her loving family in the comfort of her home.
The family received friends at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. Fourth St., Watkins Glen, Saturday June 22 from 2-4 p.m., followed by a private funeral service for the immediate family. She will be laid to rest with her husband at Hector Union Cemetery.
She was predeceased by her loving husband of 64 years, Donald “Peter” McBride in 2017.
She is survived by her five children, Gillian Huling of Geneva, Donn McBride of Endicott, Alan (Kathy) McBride of Bear, Delaware, Kym (Tim) Starkweather of Odessa and Andrea (Peter) Cherock of Watkins Glen; 15 grandchildren and 30 great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her great-granddaughter, Sofia McBride.
Joette was born in Detroit, Michigan, Aug. 31, 1935, the daughter of Reynolds and Ruby Matheny. She and her husband raised their children on their farm in Burdett. One of her favorite passions was gardening.
Joette was the director of the RSVP program with Cornell Cooperative Extension in Montour Falls for many years. Prior to her time with RSVP, she worked as a milk tester for Cornell. She and her husband were active in the Burdett Players, and later the Lake County Players. She was a member of the Watkins Glen Central School Board and Watkins-Montour Rotary Club.
You may express condolences to the family online at www.RoyceChedzoy.com. Those wishing to remember Joette, may consider a donation in her memory to a Schuyler County charity of one’s choice, or RSVP, c/o Schuyler County Office for the Aging, 323 Owego St., Unit 7, Montour Falls, NY 14865.
Death notices
KENNETH A. ANDERSON, 88, of Hammondsport, May 17, 2024. Arrangements by Bishop & DeSanto Funeral Home, Hammondsport.
ROGER BEARDSLEE, 82, of Hector, June 20, 2024. Arrangements by Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.
ANNE EMERSON, 78, June 6, 2024 in Penn Yan. Arrangements by Weldon Funeral Home, Penn Yan.
COLETTE C. JACKSON, 49, of Elmira, June 11, 2024 at home. Arrangements by Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.
KRISTINE L. MARONEY, 71, of June 7, 2024 at home. Arrangements by Weldon Funeral Home, Penn Yan.
R. JOETTE MCBRIDE, 88, of Burdett, June 14, 2024. Arrangements by Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.
NEAL R. MCGONIGAL, 77, of Watkins Glen, June 17, 2024 at home. Arrangements by Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.
TIM L. PERRY, 54, of Penn Yan, May 25, 2024 at home. Arrangements by Baird Funeral Home, Dundee.
ESTHER J. RECTOR, 90, of Penn Yan, June 13, 2024 at Penn Yan Manor Nursing Home. Arrangements by Weldon Funeral Home, Penn Yan.
GENE W. RHODE, 59, of Bath, June 10, 2024 at Ira Davenport Hospital, Bath. Arrangements by Baird Funeral Home, Dundee.
WILFRED “WILL” F. ROSS, 86, of Burdett, June 4, 2024. Arrangements by Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.
