Remembering Auburn and Cayuga County neighbors: Recent obituaries
Read through auburnpub.com obituaries.
FOSTER, Stewart J., 78, of Cayuga, passed away Thursday, July 4, 2019. Services and calling hours will be held in the near future at a date and time that will be announced. Arrangements are by the Pettigrass Funeral Home.
NOLIN, Ina C., 93, of Auburn, passed away Wednesday, July 3, 2019 at The Finger Lakes Center for Living. Per her family’s wishes, there will be no service or callings hours. In memory of Ina, enjoy life and family with a cocktail in hand just as she did. Cheers!
AUBURN — Ella Pearl Testa, 99, our mother and our rock was born in San Antonio, Texas, has passed away July 3, 2019, at her home in Auburn, surrounded by her loved ones. She was welcomed with open arms into the pearly gates to be reunited with her family from Texas and her large, Italian family from New York.
Ella served as an Army Sergeant during World War II. She held the flag at the head of her platoon at the train carrying the casket of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, stopping in Chattanooga, Tenn. As an Army nurse, she served at bases all over the country tending to the young men who had been badly hurt in the war.
Ella was a former beauty queen, competed in rodeos and roped steers in Texas. She drove a jeep in a Bond Rally Dare Devil Parade in Jacksonville, Fla., was a Ping-Pong Champion and Cary Grant’s jitter bug dance partner. She was a private nurse to Mrs. Allen, who was William H. Seward’s great-granddaughter. Ella worked at Auburn Nursing Home for more than 40 years, retiring at 91 years of age. At 87, Ella was named Statewide Certified Nursing Assistant of the Year, accepting the award in Saratoga Springs.
She is survived by her sons, Milton Testa and special daughter-in-law and caregiver, Becky Lepak Testa, and Jerry Testa (Darla); daughters, Pam Eisenschmidt, and Toni Breck (William); siblings, Harold Shelton, Tiley Hollowell, Frances Sinclair, and Donnie Shelton; 10 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; one great-great-granddaughter; and several nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her husband, Milton; her parents, Norman and Suzie Quiney Shelton; brothers, Lee, John, Joe, Jimmy, Gene, Norman, and L.W. Shelton; sisters, Cletha and Bee Shelton.
Ella will be remembered and dearly missed by all those who were blessed to have had her in their lives.
Services will be held at the convenience of the family.
Contributions may be made in memory of Ella to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
Arrangements are by the Cheche Funeral Home Inc., Auburn.
AUBURN — Carmela Marie Socci, 86, passed away Monday, July 1, 2019, at the Commons on St. Anthony Street.
“Carm” or, as she was affectionately by known by many as, “Honey” was a native of Auburn, the daughter of Anthony and Louise Savarese Socci. A graduate of Auburn East High School, she earned her bachelor’s degree and master’s degree from Syracuse University, in music education and elementary education. Carm maintained a lifelong passion for music, having taught music, and retired from Cato Meridian School as a second grade elementary teacher.
Along with her family, they played the folk music Mass at St. Ann’s Church for many years. Carm was a member of the Cayuga County Retired Teachers Association, and was a member of Holy Family Church. She loved her students, as well as their parents from the early years teaching on Long Island to her later years in Cato. Carm was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma Sorority, a women teacher’s honorary society.
Surviving are her siblings, James C. (June) Socci, of Auburn, Anthony R. (Joyce) Socci, of Atlanta, and Frances E. (Peter) Dulcich, of Camillus; brother-in-law, Virgil Switzer, of Owasco; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and cousins.
She was predeceased by her parents; a brother, Thomas Socci; sister, Mary Lou Switzer; two nieces, Lunne Socci, and Krista Socci, and a nephew, Thomas Socci Jr.
A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 10:45 a.m. Monday, July 8, 2019, in Holy Family Church, Auburn, with the Rev. James Enright as celebrant. Interment will follow in St. Joseph’s Cemetery. A calling hour will be held from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. prior to Mass in Holy Family.
Her family wishes to acknowledge, and thank the fine staff at The Commons on St. Anthony for the excellent care, compassion, and dignity shown to Carm while she was a resident.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Matthew House.
Arrangements are with Farrell’s Funeral Service, Inc., 84 South St., Auburn.
SOCCI, Carmela M., 86, passed away Monday, July 1, 2019. Mass of Christian burial at 10:45 a.m. Monday, July 8, 2019, in Holy Family Church, Auburn. A calling hour from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. prior to Mass in Holy Family. Memorials may be made to Matthew House, Auburn. Farrell's Funeral Service, Inc., 84 South St., Auburn.
TESTA, Ella Pearl, 99, of West Street, Auburn, died Wednesday, July 3, 2019, at her home. Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. Contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital. Arrangements are by the Cheche Funeral Home Inc., Auburn.
MECHANICVILLE — Doreen Verdi Pitcheralle, 63, a longtime resident of Mechanicville, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 20, 2019, at her home surrounded by her loving family following a brief and determined battle with cancer.
Born and raised in Auburn, she is the daughter of late Burton S. Verdi and Constance Lombardo Verdi. Doreen was a graduate of the Auburn High School class of 1974. She worked many years in the NYS Office of General Services as an executive administrator. Doreen enjoyed traveling with friends and family and would frequent Maine for long weekends during the summer. She enjoyed antiquing along her route of travel wherever she was going. Her children were the focal point of her life. Doreen was passionate about watching her son’s sporting activities. Whether it was baseball, football or basketball she was always proud of her three boys during the many games she attended over the years.
She is survived by her three sons, Ryan M. (Toni Ann), Gary J. (Kelly), and Jonathan D. Pitcheralle; her four grandchildren, Jack, Chase, Carter, and Dylan Pitcheralle; her brothers, Burt (Kathy) Verdi, and David (Peggy) Verdi; her sisters, Kathy Weldon, and Anne (Steve) Reynolds; sister-in-law, Cindy Verdi Kowatch; as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Doreen was blessed in life, and is survived by her caring and longtime partner, outstanding companion and friend, Arthur Medina.
In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, John A. Pitcheralle, and her brother, Joseph P. Verdi.
Friends are invited to join the family for a Mass of Christian burial to be offered at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 6, 2019, in St. Francis Church. Private entombment in St. Joseph’s Cemetery Mausoleum, will be held at the convenience of the family
Contributions may be made in Doreen’s honor to the American Cancer Society, 1 Penny Lane, Latham, NY 12110.
Arrangements are by the Cheche Funeral Home Inc.
To offer condolences, please visit www.chechefuneralhome.com.
AUBURN — Theresa S. Jaskula, passed away on July 2, 2019, in Auburn.
Born in Oswego, she was the daughter of the late Richard and Mary (Giacmo) Somers. Theresa was an LPN and was employed by Loretto Nursing Home for many years. In 1989, she retired from Pontiac Nursing Home.
Theresa’s passion was cooking. She was a from-scratch cook who made the best sauce and her meatballs were to die for. She enjoyed her time with her family and especially loved her grandchildren and her great-grandchildren.
Surviving are her sons, Terrence (Michelle) Jaskula, of Auburn, and Jeffery (Patti) Jaskula, of Gettysburg, Pa.; two grandchildren, Brianna (Chris) Thompson and Jeffery (Elaine) Jaskula; and six great-grandchildren.
In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Frank, and her step-sister, Carol Longeway.
Calling hours will be from 3 to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, July 9, 2019, at Nelson Funeral Home, 11 West Albany St., Oswego, NY. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, July 10, in St. Stephen’s Church. Entombment will follow in St. Peter’s Mausoleum.
Nelson Funeral Home has care of her arrangements.
AUBURN — Carmela Marie Socci, 86, passed away Monday, July 1, 2019, at the Commons on St. Anthony Street.
“Carm” or as she was affectionately by known by many as “Honey” was a native of Auburn, the daughter of Anthony and Louise Savarese Socci. A graduate of Auburn East High School, she earned her bachelor’s degree and master’s degree from Syracuse University in music education and elementary education. Carm maintained a lifelong passion for music, having taught music, and retired from Cato-Meridian School as a second-grade elementary teacher.
Along with her family, they played the folk music Mass at St. Ann’s Church for many years. Carm was a member of the Cayuga County Retired Teachers Association, and was a member of Holy Family Church. She loved her students, as well as their parents from the early years teaching on Long Island to her later years in Cato. Carm was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma Sorority, a women teacher’s honorary society.
Surviving are her siblings, James C. (June) Socci, of Auburn, Anthony R. (Joyce) Socci, of Atlanta, and Frances E. (Peter) Dulcich, of Camillus; brother-in-law, Virgil Switzer, of Owasco; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and cousins.
She was predeceased by her parents; a brother, Thomas Socci; sister, Mary Lou Switzer; two nieces, Lunne Socci, and Krista Socci, and a nephew, Thomas Socci Jr.
A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 10:45 a.m. Monday, July 8, 2019, in Holy Family Church, Auburn, with the Rev. James Enright as celebrant. Interment will follow in St. Joseph’s Cemetery. A calling hour will be held from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. prior to Mass in Holy Family.
Her family wishes to acknowledge, and thank the fine staff at The Commons on St. Anthony for the excellent care, compassion, and dignity shown to Carm while she was a resident.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Matthew House.
Arrangements are with Farrell’s Funeral Service, Inc., 84 South St., Auburn.
AUBURN — Kathleen (Kathie) Bell went to join her husband, Bob, and parents, Ray and Gladys Nolan, on Sunday, June 30, 2019.
A graduate of Garden City High School and the State University at Cortland, Kathie lived in Fleming for more than 40 years prior to moving to Auburn. She taught in local schools before becoming a caseworker for the county. Trips by Amtrak to see her children, Dina and Keith on the West Coast, were always an adventure for Kathie. On the way would be a stop to visit her sister, Pat Parkman in Indiana. Or those two might venture off to see their eldest sister, Mary (Betty) Freire in Pennsylvania, or brother, Tom Nolan and wife, Dorothy in Connecticut. Honored with a Blessed Circle of Friends, she became known as the “Social Director” for the group, even planning trips to Canada and gatherings for “fun and frivolity.”
Volunteering came easy, from starting Girl Scouting and the swim program in Fleming to teaching Sunday school, but her true love was working in the “Y” pool with folks who had need of water therapy to help alleviate a handicap. Special people in Kathie’s life include cousin, Jane and Wally Jayne; also Linda and Joe Johnson, Patty and Gary Hunt, Joanne, Russ, and Janet Bell, Doxie Sherman, Judy and Joe Spin, Lucille and Bill Howley.
A celebration of Kathie’s life will be held from 2 p.m. until dusk on Thursday, July 11, at Emerson Park Boat Launch Shelter. Friends, family and anyone wishing to share their stories are encouraged to attend. Light fare will be provided but you’re free to bring food and drinks to share as well.
For those who would like to send flowers, the family asks that you instead, donate to your favorite charity or better yet, volunteer and get involved in the way that Kathie did throughout her life.
Thoughts to remember: As the ripples caused by the flung stone stir the surface of a whole pond, so your joy-making shall spread in ever widening circles, beyond all your knowledge, all anticipation. Such Joy is eternal. Centuries after it is still bearing Joy’s precious fruit.
I live not in time but in eternity.
“We make a journey, but from where to where?” She asked. “To God,” I said and left it there. But I have asked, too, why we had to start out of the shelter of His loving heart and to take so roundabout a road to come back to the loving heart we started from. The journey has to be our way to grow toward some fulfillment more than we may know.
“And this that we call death, it is no more than the opening and closing of a door ---and in Your house how many rooms must be beyond this one where we rest momently.”
Expand your learning to include the inner curriculum of your soul.
AUBURN — Karl R. Hoffman, 67, of Auburn, passed away June 30, 2019, at Auburn Community Hospital.
Karl was born in Auburn on Feb. 27, 1952 to Helen Coyne Hoffman and the late Robert S. Hoffman. He was employed for more than 30 years at Automatic Rolls in Auburn. Karl enjoyed watching baseball, bowling, camping, and was a member of the Auburn Jaycee’s.
Karl is survived by his wife of 35 years, Gloria Hoffman; his son, Robert Hoffman; his three grandchildren; his mother, Helen Hoffman; his sister, E. Ann Scouten, and his brother, Wayne Hoffman.
Calling hours will be held from 10 a.m. to noon Monday, July 8, in St. Mary’s Church, Auburn. A funeral Mass will immediately follow calling hours at 12:15 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Karl’s name may be made to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
Arrangements are with White Chapel Funeral Home Inc., Auburn.
PITCHERALLE, Doreen Verdi, 63, of Mechanicville, passed away Thursday, June 20, 2019. Mass of Christian burial at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 6, 2019, in St. Francis Church, Auburn. Private entombment in St. Joseph’s Cemetery Mausoleum at the convenience of the family Contributions to the American Cancer Society, 1 Penny Lane, Latham, NY 12110. Arrangements are by the Cheche Funeral Home Inc.
HOFFMAN, Karl R., 67, of Auburn, passed away June 30, 2019. Arrangements are with White Chapel Funeral Home, Inc., and are incomplete at this time.
SHAW, Lee N., 89, passed away on Wednesday, June 12, 2019. Visitation from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Saturday, July 6, 2019, in Sacred Heart Church, 90 Melrose Road, Auburn. Funeral Mass to follow at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations to Hospice of the Finger Lakes or a charity of your choosing. Brew Funeral Home, 48 South St., Auburn, is in charge of the arrangements.
AUBURN — Heaven just became a LOT more lively! The Elvis tunes are flowing and the angels are kicking up their heels, because our dear mother, grandmother, and friend joined their ranks on Thursday, June 27, 2019.
Appropriately, Dorothy June Clark came into the world on New Year’s Eve of 1924, the daughter of William E. and Ethel Hardwick Clark and grew up in Skaneateles. Dorothy was a graduate of Skaneateles Central School, had a sharp intellect, the gift of gab, and a gorgeous pair of legs that still looked beautiful well into her 80s! On Aug. 10, 1946, in New York City, Dorothy married Joseph William Blair, and together, they raised four sons, Joseph (Barbara), of Florida, Thomas (Bonny), of Auburn, Robert (Margaret), of Caledonia, and James (Maryanne - sadly passed on April 12, 2019), of Auburn.
Dorothy was a tireless worker, and everything she did in life was for her “boys.” She loved them with total devotion and was immensely proud of them - yet wasn’t afraid to dole out discipline and “tell it like it is” right up until she drew her last breath! Along with being CEO of the household of five males, Dorothy also held several part and full-time jobs through the years. In the 60s and 70s, many will remember her as the cashier at the White House Grocery Store, just a few houses up from her beloved life-long home. Dorothy also worked many years, part-time, as secretary for the ABC (Alcohol Beverage Control) Board, and the City of Auburn Electrical Board. Her last job outside the home was as a keyboard specialist/file clerk at Auburn Correctional Facility.
Many of Dorothy’s colleagues remarked that she could do the work of three, and still keep everybody laughing. Dorothy truly was a one-woman whirlwind who could cook, bake a pie with a beautiful, flaky crust, clean, iron, paint, repair anything, mow, hang wallpaper (while cussing greatly), knit expertly, chauffeur grandkids, squeeze the value out of every last hard-earned cent that touched her hands, and still look beautiful when she painted the town red!
Dorothy was an animal lover, and over her lifetime owned a dog, as well as several cats, including her companion, “Boy,” who brought her much comfort in her later years. As one would expect, the pets of her children and grandchildren were as much a part of the family as the humans, and were greatly loved and then mourned when it was their time to cross the “Rainbow Bridge.” In addition to Dorothy’s tireless work and devotion to her family and pets, she loved going out on the town with her dear friends, “the girls,” and was an enthusiastic fan of SU football and basketball. She seldom missed a game, cheering and cursing from her favorite recliner with “Boy” on her lap. She was a long-time communicant of St. Mary’s Church, worked for the Democratic Party for many years, and continued giving her unvarnished and often hilarious political opinions right up to the end of her feisty life!
In addition to her four sons, Dorothy adored her eight grandchildren, Stephanie (Steven Sisco), Korynne Higa (Brian), Ryan (Astrid), Paul (Tingkham), Becky McGuire (Darren), Sarah Baker (Mark), Molly and Matthew. She proudly shared their accomplishments, was a devoted follower of Auburn lacrosse and swimming, and happily celebrated their graduations and marriages. Dorothy was thrilled that she lived long enough to know the love of her great-grandchildren, Makenzie and Logan Higa, and Harper and Hunter Blair.
Dorothy was predeceased by her husband, Joseph (1982); her father and mother, and her brothers and their wives, William (Jean) and Stewart (Barbara). Dorothy was also predeceased by her dear companion of many years, Charles Hundley.
Along with her family and friends, Dorothy is survived by three nephews and one niece. Next to Dorothy’s senior yearbook photo, there is a quote: “If silence is golden, I’ll be poor all my life.” The stories of Dorothy will preserve her memory and provide support and comfort for those of us who loved her. In honor of her, and with her senior yearbook quote in mind, TALK ON, dear friends, TALK ON!
There will be one calling hour from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday, July 5, at Farrell Funeral Service, Inc., 84 South St., Auburn, with a prayer service to follow with Rev. James Enright at 11:15 a.m. Interment will follow in St. Joseph’s Cemetery.
Donations in Dorothy’s memory may be made to the SPCA, 41 York St., Auburn, NY 13021.
WATERLOO — Gary G. Britt, 72, died Wednesday, June 26, 2019, at Geneva General Hospital, with his loving family by his side.
In keeping with his wishes, there will be no calling hours. A memorial service will be at 1 p.m. Sunday, July 7, in the Chapel at the Spa, 11 E. Main St., Clifton Springs, NY. Rev. Gail Conners, will officiate.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Beverly’s Animal Shelter, 50 E. River St., Waterloo, NY 13165.
Gary was born Sept. 28, 1946, in Auburn, the son of Clair J. and Doris “Marge” Brindak Britt. He was a graduate of Southern Cayuga High School. Gary earned his associate’s degree from SUNY Morrisville, Morrisville, N.Y. He was employed at Garden Way and later, Country Home Products. Later he was a courier for Rochester Regional Health. Gary was an avid NASCAR fan.
He is survived by his wife of 24 years, Judy Britt; children, Jennifer (Mike) Slywka, of Waterloo, Brian Meyer, of Syracuse, Elizabeth Britt, of Vermont, and Julie (Justin) Kiger, of Maine; grandchildren, Derek, Kyle, and Nolan Slywka, and Caleb and Gabriel Barrows; siblings, Thomas (Janet Sigona) Britt, of King Ferry, N.Y., Janet (John Dojka) Britt, of Cambridge, N.Y., Kathy (Abi) Almeer, of Union Springs, and Clair J. (Mary) Britt Jr., of Lyons; many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Gary was predeceased by his parents; and sisters, Libby Long and Margaret Haring.
Condolences for the family may be sent to www.coegenungfuneralhome.com.
AUBURN — Mrs. Jean Redmond, 93, peacefully passed away Saturday, June 29, 2019, at Finger Lakes Center for Living, with family surrounding her.
A lifelong resident of Auburn, and lifelong parishioner at Holy Family Church, Jean was one of the six “Wallace Girls,” a daughter of Joseph T. and Ellen Moore Wallace. Jean had received all her sacraments from Holy Family Church, had graduated from Holy Family High School, and was a strong member of the Holy Family Alumni Association.
Her career was at Mercy Hospital, as a secretary/office manager. While at Mercy, Jean in her humble compassion provided the extra TLC to her family, friends, and especially parishioners of Holy Family during a stay at Mercy. Her kindness could include a get well card, home baked treats, homemade soup, candy or a flower from her garden. She took good care of all she knew. Even after her retirement from Mercy, her charity TLC continued. Jean was a great fan of Syracuse football and basketball.
Her husband, Francis predeceased her in March 1977. She continued living on Mattie Street as long as her health prevailed.
Surviving are their children, Kevin (Gina) Redmond, of Auburn, and Barbara (John) Baxter, of Boston; sisters, Marge Szakalski, of Auburn, and Joan (Cork) Johnson, of Oswego; six grandchildren, Gregory Baxter (Danielle), of California, Hilary Baxter, of Boston, Brian Baxter, of Boston, Michael Redmond, of Auburn, Jack Redmond, of Auburn, and Brandon Redmond, of Buffalo; several nieces, nephews, and many cousins.
She was predeceased by her husband; parents, and sisters, Alice Drew, Betty Guy, and Evelyn Hares.
A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 10:45 a.m. Friday, July 5, 2019, in Holy Family Church with the Rev. John Gathenya, Pastor, as celebrant. Interment will be following in St. Joseph’s Cemetery. A calling hour will be held from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. in Holy Family prior to her Mass.
Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association.
Arrangements are with Farrell’s Funeral Service, Inc., 84 South St., Auburn.
Jean’s family would like to thank the entire staff at Finger Lakes Center for her excellent care, kindness, compassion, and making her feel at home.
ROCHESTER — Michael G. Sayles, 44, of Rochester, formerly of Weedsport, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, June 28, 2019.
Michael was born in Geneva, N.Y. on Jan. 4, 1975. He was a 1993 graduate of Weedsport Central High School and a 1995 graduate of SUNY Cobleskill. He then went on to attend SUNY ESF and had an internship with Amercorps, and in 2003 Michael graduated SUNY Oswego, where he earned his bachelor’s degree. Michael was employed as a supervisor with Paychex in Henrietta and was an IT specialist. He had a love for math, ecology, and forestry. He enjoyed playing in musicals and playing the drums in the Weedsport school band. Michael felt at peace when he was out hiking and enjoying nature. He was also a huge Star Wars Fan.
Michael is survived by his loving family, his mother, Beverly Coleman Sayles; his brother, Gregory (Amanda) Sayles; his sister, Laurie (Scott) Anania; nephews, Thomas, Andrew, and Christopher; nieces, Isabella and Savannah, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Michael was predeceased by his father, Thomas H. Sayles in September 2009.
Calling hours will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, July 5, 2019, at White Chapel Funeral Home, 2719 Erie Drive, Weedsport. A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 6, at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Cato Union Cemetery.
Donations in memory of Michael may be made to the Weedsport Fire Department, 8892 South St., Weedsport, NY 13166.
AUBURN — Michael G. “Mitch” Milczakowskyj, 61, of Auburn, died Saturday, June 29, 2019, at Strong Memorial Hospital, Rochester.
Mike was a life resident of the Auburn area, the son of the late Gabriel and Franka Lesiw Milczakowskyj. He served his country as a member of the United States Army.
He is survived by his two sons, 1Sg. Andrew (Jessica) Milczakowskyj, of Dixon, Mo., and Ssg Demetrius (Lindsey) Milczakowskyj, of Ft. Bragg, N.C., and two granddaughters, Harper and Carsyn. He is also survived by his sister, Ann Marie (Bohdan) Skrobach, of Webster, N.Y., and his nieces, Natalie, Christina, and Stephanie.
Funeral services for Mike will be at 8 a.m. Wednesday in SS. Peter and Paul Church. Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Cemetery. Friends are invited to call from 5 to 7 p.m. (today) Tuesday at the Plis Funeral Home, 220 State St., Auburn.
Condolences may be left at www.plisfuneralhome.com.
AUBURN — Suzanne DeFurio Reese, 76, passed away peacefully on June 29, 2019, surrounded by her family.
Sue was born in Auburn on Sept. 18, 1942, the daughter of the late Dr. Frank L. DeFurio and Josephine (Murphy) DeFurio. She was a graduate of East High School class of 1960 and the BOCES Practical Nursing Program class of 1977. During her time as a nurse, she had been employed at Auburn Memorial Hospital, several doctors offices, as a private duty nurse for the Harold Weaver family, and retired from the Wells College Infirmary.
Sue was very active in the community over the years and volunteered in the PTA at Herman Avenue School and also as a Brownie leader. She was a member of the Melrose Park Seniors, Beta Sigma Phi Sorority where she served as vice president, Red Hat Society, and also a former member of the Board of Managers of the Faatz-Crofut Home. She was a communicant of St. Francis of Assisi and a member of the Sacred Heart Society, where she served as vice president.
Sue is survived by her three daughters, Tammy L. Reese, of Fort Collins, Colo., Kimberly S. (Gordon) Phillips, of Auburn, and Julie A. (James) Lee, of Fort Collins, Colo.; five grandchildren, Katie (Anthony) Mazzola, Gregory Lennox Jr. (Vanessa), Isabel Lee (Matheu), Tristan Lee, and Ruby Lee; five great-grandchildren, Makayla, Connor, Ireland, Kyle, and Dominic; her sister, Mary Ann Alger; her brother, Frank L. DeFurio Jr.; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her son, William J. Reese Jr. in 1969.
Her greatest joy was spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was a fan of country music and had a passion for dancing. She enjoyed the plays at the Merry-Go-Round Playhouse where she attended regularly with her friends, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She will be sadly missed by those who were fortunate to know her. Sue will be remembered for her beautiful smile and the kindness she showed to everyone around her.
Calling hours will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 2, 2019, at Pettigrass Funeral Home, 196 Genesee St, Auburn. Mass will be held at 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 3, 2019, in St. Francis of Assisi Church, 299 Clark St., Auburn. She will be laid to rest, alongside her son, “Billy,” at 10 a.m. Friday, July 5, 2019, in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Lake Avenue, Auburn.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Muscular Dystrophy Association or St. Francis of Assisi Church.
NILES — Alfred (Al) Matijas, 87, of Niles, passed away Friday, June 28, 2019.
Al was born in New Hope on Aug. 27, 1931, the son of John Sr. and Suzanna (Koncus) Matijas. He was raised and worked on the family farm until he joined the United States Army in July of 1954. He was honorably discharged from the United States Army in June of 1956. After service to his country, he was employed by Smith Corona of Groton and Cortland for 38 years until retirement in 1994. During retirement, Al worked with his brother, George in New Hope Rural Cemetery and at numerous homes along Skaneateles Lake for 15 years as a caretaker. During his down time, he enjoyed watching the Yankees. Al married June Marks on Nov. 30, 1956 and was married for 49 years until her passing in March of 2006.
Al was predeceased by 11 brothers; two sisters, and life-long friend, Andrew Wagner.
Survived by his three sons, Daniel (Yvonne) Matijas, of Weedsport, Kevin Matijas and Allen Matijas, both of Auburn; three daughters, Valerie Rowe, of Auburn, Deborah Walpole (Aanen Aanensen), and Dawn (Christopher) Czolowski; eight grandchildren, Thomas Matijas and Ashley Piascik, Adam, Aaron, and Ryan Rowe, Mikey, Richard, and Marissa Walpole; eight great-grandchildren, Annalyse Matijas, Olivia and George Piascik, Chloe Knauss-Rowe, Logan, and Sienna Rowe, James Rowe, and Hunter Walpole, and a new great-grandchild due in January 2020; his sister, Pauline (Polly) Weeks, of Skaneateles. He is also survived by his grand pup, Buddy.
Calling hours will be held from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 2, at Robert D. Gray Funeral Home, Skaneateles. Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 3, in Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, West Genesee Street, Skaneateles. Interment will follow in New Hope Rural Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Al’s memory be made to Holy Trinity Lutheran Church or New Hope Fire Department.
The family wishes to express their sincere appreciation to all of Al’s aides over the past six years; a special caregiver, Sue Stayton, and first responder, Pat Merical.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.
A memorial Mass celebrating the life of Mary-Jo Gleason Fennessy, who died on April 24, 2019 will be held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, July 2, in St. Alphonsus Church, 85 E. Genesee St., Auburn. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Mary-Jo's name to Hospice of Marion County (Fla.), Alzheimer's Foundation of America, or SmileTrain.
BLAIR, Mrs. Dorothy J., 94, of Auburn, passed away Thursday, June 27, 2019. Prayer services at 11:15 a.m. Friday, July 5, 2019; a calling hour will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. at Farrell's Funeral Service, Inc., 84 South St., Auburn. Memorials may be remembered to Finger Lakes SPCA of CNY, 41 York St., Auburn, NY 13021.
REESE, Suzanne "Sue" E. (Defurio), 76, of the Boyle Center, Auburn, passed away Saturday, June 29, 2019. Mass of Christian burial is at 12:30 p.m. this Wednesday in St. Francis of Assisi Church. Calling hours are from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 2. in Pettigrass Funeral Home, 196 Genesee St., Auburn. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Muscular Dystrophy Assoc., or St. Francis of Assisi Church.
MATIJAS, Alfred, 87, of Niles, passed away Friday, June 28, 2019 at Seneca Nursing Home. Services will be 10:30 Wednesday in Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Skaneateles. Calling hours will be from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Robert D. Gray Funeral Home, 49 Jordan St., Skaneateles.
SIKORA, Josephine T., 79, passed away Tuesday, June 25, 2019. Calling hours from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, June 30, at Heieck-Pelc Funeral Home, 42 East Genesee St., Auburn. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated by Rev. Frank Lioi at 11 a.m. Monday, July 1, in St. Hyacinth Church, 63 Pulaski St., Auburn. Donations in Josephine’s memory may be made to the charity of one’s choice.
SAYLES, Michael G., 44, of Rochester, formerly of Weedsport, passed away Friday, June 28, 2019. Calling hours will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, July 5, 2019, at White Chapel Funeral Home, Weedsport. Services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home.
WILCZEK, William P., 76, of Auburn, died Monday, June 24, 2019. Funeral services at 10 a.m. Monday, July 1, in SS. Peter and Paul Church. Burial in St. Joseph’s Cemetery. Calling hours from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday at the Plis Funeral Home, 220 State St., Auburn.
SADLER, Camille Mary, passed on June 16, 2019, in Coon Rapids, Minn. Visitation from 10 to 11 a.m. on Monday, July 1, at Pettigrass Funeral Home in Auburn, followed by interment in St. Joseph’s Cemetery. The family requests memorial contributions to your local food bank.
PROVO, Utah — Kathryn Whitehorne died, surrounded by her family, on April 17, 2019 in Provo, Utah at the age of 83.
She was born in Buffalo, N.Y. and was a resident of Aurelius, N.Y. for more than 40 years. Kathryn earned a BA from Buffalo State College and a master’s in library science from SUNY Oswego. For decades, she was the school librarian at the Onondaga Indian School, where she served as a dedicated educator and developed a deep respect for indigenous peoples’ cultures. Kathryn loved nature and wilderness travel. Among her favorite excursions were family canoeing trips in Ontario, Utah’s Green River, and the Yukon River.
She is survived by her children, Mark Simon, Alex Simon, and Olive Josuweit, their spouses, and three grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on July 6, in the Unitarian-Universalist Church in Canton, N.Y.
AUBURN — June S. Reeve, 96, of Auburn, passed away June 27, 2019, at The Commons on St. Anthony Street.
Born in Auburn, she was the daughter of the late Earl and Leah (Weese) Sutfin. June was an East High School graduate and a graduate of the local business school. She worked at the former Big Store, First National Bank, and retired from Beardsley and Beardsley.
June’s personality was naturally timid, but she overcame her shyness throughout her life fighting battles for her family and her neighborhood. She was an avid reader and gardener and had a true love for animals. She also had a love for flowers, colors, and textures, nurturing a lifelong passion of creating. She was an active member of the Calvary Presbyterian Church where she was treasurer and contributed to many church activities, including the Koinonian Club.
She is survived by her daughter, Pamalee A. Reeve, and by many friends.
June was predeceased by her husband of 72 years, William E. Reeve, in 2017.
A calling hour will be held from noon to 1 p.m. on July 2, at Langham Funeral Home, followed by a 1 p.m. service at the funeral home. Burial will be in Soule Cemetery.
Contributions may be made to The Alzheimer’s Association, SPCA, or to a local food bank in memory of June.
Visit www.Langhamfuneralhomellc.com to leave a condolence.
THROOP — Renae M. Parsons-Whiffen, 58, passed away on June 16, 2019, after her courageous battle of 11 years with breast cancer.
Renae was born on Aug. 25, 1960. Renae was the proud owner of Grand Paws Bed & Biscuit Boarding Kennel on Turnpike Road in Sennett. With her dad, Bill Parsons, at her side at the archery tournaments, Renae obtained the title of Female World Championship in archery three times. Renae was also an avid golfer and enjoyed fishing and being with her brothers, Bill and Eric and their families.
She is survived by her husband, William Whiffen, and two very special friends, Catherine Brown and Chris McAfee.
Per her request, there are no services to be held. She would want everyone who knew her to cuddle their pet once for her.
We will have a celebration of her life with a dish to pass at 2 p.m. on Aug. 18, 2019, at Cayuga Lake State Park.
