For recent death notices, scroll to the bottom of this page.

-------------------

Obituaries

Thomas A. Nicastle

Age 79, of Odessa, NY passed away unexpectedly on July 15, 2010 at Kindred Hospital in Wilkes-Barre, PA.

Tom was born on November 25, 1930 in Billings, Montana. He was the son of Fred Nicastle and Katheryn Schultes Nicastle, who predeceased him.

Tom made his home in Odessa for 30 years after spending many years at Craig Developmental Center in Sonyea, NY and Sampson State School. He enjoyed frequenting local family restaurants for a meal or coffee and socializing at the Office for the Aging meal sites. He loved country music and western movies, and was a faithful follower of the “Gunsmoke” television series. Tom enjoyed many concerts in the park with friends and companions.

Tom is survived by his brother, Fred Nicastle of Dalton, NY; his special friend and companion Frances Welsh; his housemates, and many friends at The Arc of Schuyler and in the community.

Friends are invited to attend a celebration of Tom’s life at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY on Thursday, July 22 at 11:00 AM.

Interment will be in Dalton, NY at the convenience of the family.

Contributions in Tom’s memory may be made to The Arc of Schuyler, 203 Twelfth St., Watkins Glen, NY.

Clara E. Rolfe

Age 92, of Burdett, NY passed away Friday, July 16, 2010 at Arnot Ogden Medical Center, Elmira, NY.

Mrs. Rolfe was predeceased by her husband, Leon Rolfe, and is survived by her daughters, Marion Auble and Norma Rolfe, both of Burdett, NY; a brother, Lewis (Barbara) Tidd of Amsterdam, NY; nieces Beverly Chalk, Rita Berlin, Nancy Bennett and Donna Moore; nephews John and Norman Tidd; several great nieces and great nephews, and many good friends. Mrs. Rolfe was also predeceased by Elsie Auble, and by Howard and Norman Tidd.

She was a faithful member of the Hector Presbyterian Church, Hector, NY.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY on Monday, July 19, 2010 from 1 to 2 PM. Her funeral service will follow at 2 PM. The Rev. James & Nancy Yao will officiate. Internment will follow at Union Cemetery of Hector.

Those wishing to remember Mrs. Rolfe may do so through memorials to the Hector Presbyterian Church or to the Burdett Fire & Rescue Squad.

Tori Vary

Age 65, of Montour Falls, NY went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday, July 1, 2010, after a courageous battle with cancer while surrounded by her loving family.

Tori was the loving wife to Chuck Vary; loving mother to Tom (Cathy) Halbert, Jim (Sandy) Halbert, Kari (Ken) Kendall, Pam (Serge) Daza, Bridget Vary, Debbie (Jr.) Hetrick, Donna Vary, Daryl Vary and Dawn McFall; grandmother to 17, and great-grandmother to four. Mrs. Vary’s siblings are brothers Fred Thomas and Mick Thomas, and a sister, Anne Platteborze. She is also survived by her mother-in-law, Ceil Peterson.. Tori was predeceased by her first husband, Si Halbert; her father, Leigh Thomas; her mother, Eunice Thomas; sisters Ruth Christopher and Ellen Schanbacher, and a brother, Leigh Thomas, Jr.

Tori was an active member of Lakeview Assembly of God Church in Watkins Glen, NY.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the First Baptist Church of Montour Falls, on South Street, on Sunday, July 4th, 2010 from 3-5 PM. Tori’s memorial service will be held there following visitation at 5:00 PM, with a reception immediately following in the fellowship hall.

Tori was a lifelong resident of Montour Falls who loved and touched many lives within and around our community. She will be sadly missed by many. Well done, thou good and faithful servant!

Those wishing to remember Tori may do so through the Lakeview Assembly of God Building Fund, Rt. 14, Watkins Glen, NY or the Falck Cancer Center, 600 Roe Ave., Elmira, NY.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Vedder & Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY.

Mary Ellen Schanbacher

Age 75, of Alpine, NY found peace after an extended illness on Friday, June 25, 2010.

She was born in Elmira, NY, the daughter of the late Lee & Eunice Harrington Thomas, and was predeceased by her husband, Kenneth W. Schanbacher, and daughter Marrietta R. Cranmer.

She is survived by her children, Barbara Lee Schanbacher, Kathleen A. Cranmer, Joseph J. Schanbacher, Susan K. (Robert) Marshall, Donna J. (Brian) Szuman, Sandra M. (Wayne) Eccleston and Diana R. (Martine) Kennedy; 19 grandchildren, and 10 great grandchildren. She is also survived by her sisters, Anne Plattborze and Sarah (Charles) Vary; brothers Frederick (Yvonne) Thomas and Michael (Debbie) Thomas, and numerous loving nieces and nephews. A sister, Ruth Christopher, and a brother, Leigh Thomas Jr., predeceased her.

Mrs. Schanbacher was a long-time member of the Lakeview Assembly of God Church, Watkins Glen, and was a 35-year employee of Schuyler Hospital as a nurse and later Nursing Supervisor. She will be remembered as a good caregiver and confidant to all her patients.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls on Monday, June 28, 2010 from 6 to 8 PM. Her funeral service will be held on Tuesday, June 29 at the Lakeview Assembly of God Church, Watkins Glen at 1 PM. Interment will follow at Montour Cemetery. The Rev. Mark Houseknecht will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Falck Cancer Center, Elmira, NY or to the Building Fund at the Assembly of God Church, Watkins Glen, NY.

Gertje Turk

Age 85, of Beaver Dams, NY passed away on Sunday, June 20, 2010 at the Arnot Ogden Medical Center, Elmira, NY.

Mrs. Turk was born in Steins, Holland and came to this country in 1930. She was the daughter of the late Wybe & Trientje van der Meulen and the wife of the late Paul E. Turk, who passed away in 1984. Her brothers, Harman, Lammert and Albert, and sister, Gertje van der Meulen, also predeceased her.

Mrs. Turk is survived by her son, David W. Turk of Beaver Dams, NY and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Mrs. Turk was a reading buddy and was a volunteer driver for RSVP. She was a member of the Schuyler County Historical Society and Museum, the Montour Falls Library, the League of Women Voters, and the Democratic Party, and loved to sew and make her own clothes.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee Street, Montour Falls, NY on Wednesday, June 23 from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM. Her funeral service will be held there on Thursday at 10 AM. Interment will be in Montour Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to remember Mrs. Turk may do so through memorials to the Schuyler County Historical Society & Museum or the Montour Falls Library.

Patricia A. Brown

Age 70, of Montour Falls, NY passed away surrounded by her loving family after a courageous battle with cancer on Saturday morning, June 12, 2010.

Pat was born February 18, 1940 to the late George and Mabel Zimmer Brown. She was pre-deceased by her husband, Robert Brown; a sister, Virginia Jaynes; and a nephew, Danny Jaynes. She is survived by her children, Randy Brown, Rick Brown, Ronny (Mimi) Brown and Nicki Bruno; sister and best friend Barbara Bird; grandchildren Alyssa, Noah, R.C., and Hannah; several nieces, nephews and cousins, and four-legged companion Ginger.

The family will welcome relatives and friends to the Vedder & Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls on Wednesday, June 16 between the hours of 6PM and 8PM. A private service will be held at the convenience of the family at Laurel Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Falck Cancer Center, 600 Roe Ave., Elmira, NY 14905.

Florence A. DeMunn

Age 95, of Montour Falls, NY passed away in the comfort of her home on Saturday, May 22, 2010.

Mrs. DeMunn was predeceased by her husband, Clark DeMunn, and son, Michael DeMunn, and is survived by a special niece, Tina DeSarno, who was like a daughter to Florence, along with Tina’s son, Chet Neil (Cassey) Cady and their son, Damion Allen Cady, all of Beaver Dams, NY; nephews Tom Sick and Bob Schrann, both of Florida; and niece Phyllis McNeil of Ithaca, NY.

Florence’s husband, Clark, had a couple of patents, the one Florence was most proud of was the transition for lenses in eyeglasses. Florence and Clark were known for their beautiful flower gardens all around their home, a fragrant and spectacular sight that was enjoyed by many local people.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Thursday, May 27, 2010 from 11:00 AM to 12 Noon at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY. Her funeral service will be held there at 12:00 Noon. Interment will follow in Hope Cemetery, Corning, NY

Todd E. Eberhardt

Age 41, of Cayuta, New York passed away unexpectedly at his home.

His loving wife, Michelle, survives Todd. He is also survived by his beloved parents, Louis & Bonnie Eberhardt, and his brothers & sisters, Tom & Diane, Joe & Robin, Nellie B. and Colleen Eberhardt.

In accordance with his wishes, private services will be held at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Cayuta Free Church, C/O Charlotte Collins, 1100 Conkrite Road, Cayuta, NY. 14824.

Tammi L. Peterson

Age 45 of Burdett, NY passed away on Sunday, May 9, 2010.

Her husband, Osco K. Peterson, survives Tammi along with her son, Matthew Dutton Peterson; parents James and Lois Drake of Odessa, NY; a sister, Wendy (Steve) Weber of Elmira, NY; brothers James R. Drake Jr. of Elmira, NY and Michael (Elaine) Drake of Scotia, NY; along with her beloved nieces & nephews and several aunts & uncles.

Tammi was a legal secretary for the law firm of Holmberg, Galbraith, Van Houston & Miller, Ithaca, NY. Tammi loved the outdoors, her flower gardens, the beauty of the land and all the birds that she loved to feed.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY on Thursday, May 13 from 3 to 6 PM. Her funeral service will be held following visitation at 6 PM. The Rev. Michael E. Hartney will officiate. Interment will be held at the convenience of the family in Highland Cemetery, Odessa, NY.

Flowers are acceptable, or anyone wishing to may make a memorial contribution to a charity of one’s choice in Tammi's name.

Charles D. “Chic” Povero

Age 70, passed away on Thursday, May 6, 2010.

His long-time companion, Vicki Wood Burton, survives Chic. He is also survived by his sister, Janet Plate, and brother, Anthony (Diana) Povero, all of Montour Falls, along with a niece, two nephews and several cousins. Vicki’s parents, Francis & Betty Fisk, and brother-in-law Raymond Hogan also survive him.

Chic was predeceased by his infant daughter, Grace Angelica; parents Joseph & Domenica Povero and brother-in-law Wesley “Sandy” Plate.

Chic served his country for four years with the U.S. Army and retired from the Schuyler County Highway Department. He also worked for Silverline Construction Co. and was a self-employed truck driver. He loved to hunt and fish, enjoyed cooking, loved to socialize with all the local restaurant and diner patrons, and was a lover of animals.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY on Tuesday, May 11 from 1 to 3 PM and 5 to 7 PM. His funeral service will be held there following visitation at 7 PM. A private burial will take place at Highland Cemetery with full military honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Schuyler County Humane Society, 2386 County Route 10, Odessa, NY 14869.

Joan T. Strong

Age 70, of Montour Falls, NY passed away on Wednesday, May 5, 2010 at Schuyler Hospital.

Mrs. Strong is survived by her husband, Philip L. Strong; children Betty Hayes, Kelly and Art Bennett, Patricia and John Dauth and Tom Strong; 9 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren; siblings Joy and Dick Carlyle, Joanne and Jud Caslin, John and Johnnie Hinderliter, Donna Keegan, Michael Keegan, Daniel Keegan, Jeuillie Keegan & Ed Macey, Cherrie and Calvin David, Demietrius Keegan, Susan Keegan, and Sean and Brenda Keegan; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her father, Charles Hinderliter; her mother, Jeuillie Keegan; her stepfather, Donald Keegan; a brother, Donald Keegan, and a sister, Penny Keegan.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY on Monday, May 10, 2010 from 5 PM to 7 PM. Private services will be held at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Schuyler County Volunteer Ambulance Association, P.O. Box 2, Watkins Glen, NY 14891 in Joan’s name,

Recent obituaries can be found at the bottom of the page

Vedder & Scott Funeral Homes, Inc.

Our family caring for yours

We honor your time by talking about what's most important to you, the memory of your loved one. You decide what's right for you. We pride ourselves on listening to your needs and working with you to create the most meaningful, appropriate and affordable way to remember your loved one.

Locations

122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY 14865. Phone number (607) 535-2396.

534 Church St., Odessa, NY 14869. Phone number (607) 594-3765.

Services Available

-- Information and support materials about death and dying.

-- Preplanned funeral arrangements and trust account planning.

-- Complete range of funeral services personalized to meet your specific needs.

-- Broad selection of memorialization merchandise, from cards and memory books to caskets and urns.

-- Range of prices to meet your unique requests.

-- Wide variety of cremation options available.

-- On-site casket selection room where you may choose to see and understand your choices.

-- Pet Burial containers.

Together we will create a Personalized Memorial

When you come to us for funeral services, we listen to your needs and work to understand the
unique wishes of your family. We are happy to discuss a wide variety of options that are available to create an appropriate and affordable memorial . We provide a reference guide of information that will help support your experience with information needed to make this process
less restricting and more memorable. We promise to give you our best!

What You Can Expect From Us

* Personal and compassionate attention
* Prompt professionalism
* Creative and unique personalized services
* Clear and understandable explanation of how we will meet your needs
* “Reference Guide” to refer to and take home with you
* Affordable solutions to meet your financial situation
* Quality and Value
* Accommodating Modern Facilities
* Barrier Free Access
* Off-Street Parking
* Support Services in the days following the funeral

What You Will Need To Prepare To Bring

* Birth Certificate
* Social Security number or card
* Veterans Papers if applicable
* Insurance Papers if applicable
* Cemetery Deed if applicable

What We Will Discuss

Our first meeting will be 1 to 2.5 hours
During that time we will be covering:

* Planning the Farewell
* Bringing Family & Friends together

Things To "Consider” When Planning a Personalized Memorial

* Pictures
* Family &/or Friends sharing
* Special/Favorite Music
* Work, Hobbies, Organizational Affiliations, Travel
* Minister/Speaker
* Special Readings
* Memorial donations and/or Flowers
* Location
* Family & Friends gathering between and/or after the services
* Veterans or Civic Organization Tributes

Our Staff

Every person on our caring staff is committed to maintaining personal attention to every detail of each unique family situation in order to provide a personalized tribute to your loved one. We are committed to provide excellence in service. Our history is rich in tradition and service to the local communities. We cherish home-town values, and our heritage shows a proven record of trust and commitment.

Jackie Wickham joined the staff as Office Manager in early 1996 and is an invaluable help with support information and assistance for all families that pass through our doors. She and her husband John were both raised in Schuyler County and have raised a family of three children here as well. She has an extensive firsthand knowledge of the communities and families we serve.

Kevin Sullivan, LFD joined the staff as a part-time Associate in May of 2004. He brings nine years of experience to the business. Kevin and his wife Lorrie grew up in the Horseheads area, and they understand our dedication to community. They have recently opened Sullivan’s Funeral Home on the corner of Franklin and State Rt. 13 in Horseheads, NY. We’re very happy to have Kevin join our dedicated staff, and are confident in his ability to serve your needs.

Fred Scott, LFD, after returning from Vietnam and getting his Associates Degree at Corning Community College and his Mortuary Science Degree at Simmon’s Mortuary School, joined his father in business in 1977.

Fred and his wife Bonnie (shown together at right) have lived for 25 years in this community, where they raised their daughter and have been active in community endeavors such as church, school, civic organizations, charity fundraisers, community government and local development committees. Fred also donates his time to manage the Montour Cemetery for the Village as a Cemetery Commissioner, and serves on the St. Mary’s Holy Cross Cemetery Board. Fred is personally committed to continuing the tradition of compassionate service delivered promptly and with the highest degree of professionalism as was established by his father.

Our History

Earl M. Vedder established the Vedder Funeral Home in 1926, and Wendell V. Scott established the Scott Funeral Home in 1948, both in Montour Falls, NY. Mr. Vedder also owned a local furniture store on Main Street. A local businessman and friend to both men, John E. Hodge, encouraged them to join their businesses to make a stronger commitment to the community. So in 1949 Vedder and Scott, Inc., was established as a Funeral Home on North Genesee Street and as a Furniture Store on the Main Street of Montour Falls, in the heart of the Finger Lakes Region. The Heal Funeral Home, on Church Street in Odessa, was purchased by the Company in 1981 and provided a second location to our unique communities.

Earl and Blanche Vedder resided in the North Genesee Street Funeral Home apartment. Blanche was a school teacher at the Montour Elementary School, and was the Village Clerk for a time. They owned a small farm on Rt. 414 where Earl enjoyed horseback riding and raising horses. They retired to Mesa, AZ in the early 1960s.

Wendell and Dorothy Scott lived on Owego Street in Montour Falls in the former Hibbard Funeral Home, where they raised five children, until moving into the North Genesee Street apartment when the Vedders retired. Dorothy worked as an accountant for the Montour National Bank and in the furniture store in following years. Wendell was the Town Clerk in Montour Falls for approximately 20 years, and was well known as a resident at Chef’s Diner for breakfast!

The Montour Falls location was built in 1844. Before becoming the Funeral Home, some of the upstairs rooms were rented for local nurses who worked at the Shepherd’s Hospital out behind the Funeral Home on Schuyler Street. The building still has the original Dutch Oven and Fireplace and is included as part of the section known as the “Glorious T” of historic buildings in Montour Falls.

Other recent obituaries:

Susie J. DeGraw

Age 73, of Montour Falls, NY passed away on Friday, April 30, 2010 at Schuyler Hospital, Montour Falls, NY.

Mrs. DeGraw is survived by her husband, Robert E. DeGraw; children Mike (Deb) DeGraw of North Carolina, Laura Sopp of Elmira, NY, Linda Leonard of Montour Falls, NY and Sherry (Doug) Habbershaw of Montour Falls, NY; 8 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren; a sister, Beatrice (Reedie) Clark of Elmira, NY, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mrs. DeGraw was a retiree of Akzo Salt Co., Watkins Glen, NY and of the Ann Page Company, Horseheads, NY. She was an avid reader and card player, and loved to travel.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to her many friends and the nursing staff at Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility for her excellent care.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY on Monday, May 3, 2010 from 3 to 5 PM. Mrs. DeGraw’s funeral service will be held there following visitation at 5 PM, the Rev. Jane Winters officiating. Interment will be held in Montour Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Those wishing to remember Mrs. DeGraw may do so through memorials to the Schuyler County Volunteer Ambulance Assoc., PO Box 2, Watkins Glen, NY or to the Montour Falls Fire Department, PO Box 369, Montour Falls, NY.

Winifred E. Buckley

Age 81, of Montour Falls, NY passed away on Monday, April 26, 2010 at Schuyler Skilled Nursing Facility, Montour Falls, New York.

Mrs. Buckley is survived by her two sons, Thomas & Joseph Buckley, both of Bath, New York, along with grandchildren Jonathon & Anisa, Tina, Johnna, Dana “Tiger” and Audrea and seven great-grandchildren. Winfred was predeceased by her husband, Tom Buckley, and her daughter, Linda Tracy, along with her parents, Clinton Sr. and Jennie Hammond Smith.

Mrs. Buckley, better known as Winnie, was a “Mom” to everybody, not just her own children. Winnie “Mom” loved her sons very much as she raised her boys alone from a very young age as Mr. Buckley passed away in 1967.

As per Mrs. Buckley’s wishes, there will be no prior calling hours or funeral and she will be laid to rest next to her husband, Tom, in the Bath National Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Vedder & Scott Funeral Home, Montour Falls, NY.

Joyce R. Collins

Age 69, of Montour Falls, NY passed away on Saturday, April 17, 2010 at her home surrounded by her loving family.

Joyce is survived by her daughter, Kathleen Specchio of Odessa, NY; her son, Rodney Steves of Montour Falls, NY; grandchildren Rebecca Wright, Christopher Wright and Dustin Steves and great-grandson Joey Wright; a sister, Rita (Daniel) Magurno, Pleasant Valley, NY; and brothers Donald (Mary) Campbell, Cayuta, NY, Carl (Susan) Campbell, Jonesborough, TN, George (Carol) Campbell, Waverly, NY, and Michael (Carol) Campbell, Newfield, NY. She was predeceased by her parents, Robert and Louise Clark Campbell, and brothers Stanley and Dennis “Zeke” Campbell.

Joyce worked for Cotton-Hanlon, Inc., Cayuta, NY for over 32 years as a Clerk and Switchboard Operator in the Hardwood Office at the “Mill.”

Relatives and friends are invited to attend calling hours on Thursday, April 22, 2010 from 2-4 p.m. at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 534 Church Street, Odessa, NY with Joyce’s Memorial Service to immediately follow. Interment will be at the convenience of the family.

Gladys R. Kimble

Age 86, of Middle Road, Horseheads, NY passed away in the comfort of her home on Friday, April 16, 2010.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 534 Church Street, Odessa, NY on Sunday, April 18, 2010 from 2 PM to 5 PM. Her funeral service will be held there on Monday, April 19 at 1 PM. The Rev. David Braid will officiate. Interment will be in Highland Cemetery.

She is survived by her daughter, Linda (Frank) Francisco of Penn Yan, NY; granddaughters Charlene (David) DeMarco of Penn Yan, NY and Deanna (Richard) Curren of Horseheads, NY and step granddaughter Yvette Francisco of Owego, NY; four great grandchildren, Nicholas, Anthony and Mikayla Curren and Caiden DeMarco; a sister, Verma McClary of Cayuta, NY; brothers James (Sally) Wood of Himrod, NY and Paul (Lillian) Wood of Jordan, NY; and 21 nieces and nephews, including a special niece and caregiver, Dawn Kent.

Gladys was born October 14, 1923, the eldest daughter of Francis and Edna Searles Wood in the Town of Catharine. She was a graduate of Odessa High School, Class of 1941. On June 24, 1942 in the Odessa Baptist Church, she married William N. Kimble, who predeceased her on February 28, 1994. Together they owned and operated Breezy Home Farm and took great pride in their family and Registered Holstein Dairy. She was a communicant of Cayuta Free Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to Southern Tier Hospice or the Food Bank of the Southern Tier.

Robert J. "Bobby" Franklin

Age 46, of County Route 14 in Odessa, NY, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 11, 2010 at his home, surrounded by loving family and friends.

Bobby was born April 4, 1964 in Montour Falls, NY, the son of Robert E. Franklin and Anna (Smith) Franklin.

Bobby worked as a Motor Equipment Operator for the Town of Montour Highway Department for over 12 years. Prior to his time with the Town of Montour, he worked for Robinson Lumber, Cookies Construction, and the Odessa-Montour Central School bus garage. Bobby dedicated himself to the fire service for over 26 years, more than 13 of which he served as Chief of the Odessa Fire Department. His knowledge and experience, along with his integrity, pride and selfless dedication to his community, earned him the respect of firefighters and community members near and far.

Bobby was also active and well loved in the Schuyler County Firefighters' Association, Firemen's Association of the State of New York, and the Central New York Firemen's Association, where he had recently been serving as the Schuyler County Director. In his free time, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and woodworking. Bobby also loved going to auctions, traveling the back roads, and spending time with friends and family, including his beloved dogs.

He is survived by his loving wife of 15 years, Rebecca J. Franklin; mother Anna; father Robert (Jody Whitted); sister Dawn Lewis; nephew Rusty Lewis Jr.; sister- and brother-in-law Rhea and Jamie Gerdes; mother-in-law Kathleen Cleveland; father-in-law Alan Cleveland; stepmother-in-law Jan Cleveland; grandmother-in-law Jane Cleveland; as well as many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. He was predeceased by his grandparents, uncle Jerry Franklin, and "father-in-law" Fred Ferry.

The family expressed its "sincere gratitude to the Oncology staff at the Guthrie Clinic in Sayre, PA for their exceptional and compassionate care during Bobby's courageous two-year battle with cancer." The family also thanked Hospice and the special friends that helped care for Bobby in his final days.

There will be a visitation at the Odessa Fire Department on Saturday, April 17 from 1-3 p.m., followed by a processional to the Odessa-Montour High School auditorium for a Memorial service to be held at 3:30 p.m. An informal reception will follow at the Odessa Fire Department. A private interment will take place at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make donations in Bobby's memory may direct them to Southern Tier Hospice and Palliative Care, the American Cancer Society or the Odessa Fire Department.

Mary E. Cleary

Mary E. Cleary of Albuquerque, New Mexico went to be with the Lord unexpectedly on January 3, 2010.

Mary is preceded in death by her mother, Marion Cleary Peters. She is survived by her father, John (Mary Ann) Cleary, Montour Falls, NY; her three sons, Jason, Ryan and Jordon Cleary, all of Albuquerque, New Mexico; siblings John Cleary of Elmira, NY, Christine Cleary of Tulsa, OK, Theresa (Ted) Siri of Watkins Glen, NY, Patrick (Deedy) Cleary of Sandia Park, NM, and Kelly (Rodney) Iles of Manor, TX.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service for Mary on Saturday, April 17, 2010 at the St. James Episcopal Church, Watkins Glen, NY at 10:00 a.m. with Father Michael Hartney officiating. A graveside service will immediately follow at the Montour Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in Mary’s name.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Vedder & Scott Funeral Home, Montour Falls, NY.

Raymond M. Rajala

Age 63, of Alpine, NY passed away on Sunday, March 7, 2010 at Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility, Montour Falls, NY.

Mr. Rajala was predeceased by his parents, Matt and Opal Spivey Rajala; a brother, Calvin (Bud) Harter; and a sister, Carolyn Harter. He is survived by his wife, Sylvia (Fletcher) Rajala; Children of the Heart, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Mr. Rajala was a graduate of Spencer High School in 1964. Ray loved horses, and his infatuation with the “Old West” was apparent to those who knew him. Western trail riding was a great pleasure of Ray’s and he was very competitive at it as well. Ray worked for the Cayuga Medical Center in the Laundry Department for 15 years.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Odessa Wesleyan Church, Church Street, Odessa, NY on Saturday, March 13 from 4 to 5 PM. A memorial service will be held following visitation at 5 PM. The Rev. Robert Ketchum will officiate. A time of fellowship and sharing of a meal will be held following the services.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the Odessa Fire Department or to the Schuyler County Volunteer Ambulance Association in Ray’s name.

The family would like to express their special gratitude and thanks for the exceptional care that was given to Ray during the year he was at the Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility on Unit 3.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home.

Delores Bartone Pylypciw

“De” Bartone Pylypciw, of North Syracuse, NY, died Monday in her home surrounded by her family.

A native of Watkins Glen, NY, she was the daughter of the late Fred and Mary Bartone, and the sister of the late Mike (Mary) Bartone, Tony (Louise) Bartone, Rose (Jack) Riley, and Ang Bartone. Born in the family home on Steuben Street, De returned to Watkins frequently throughout her life to spend time in that home, visiting with family and friends.

She graduated from Watkins Glen High School in 1940. While in school she was one of the early girls basketball players. Her short stature and speed earned her the name “Shorty Bartone” among her many friends. To her friends, as well as family, she was known throughout her life as a kind, loving person with a very gentle demeanor.

She is survived by her husband of 68 years, William (Doc) Pylypciw, who she met at a Burdett Grange Hall dance while he was serving in the Civilian Conservation Corp at Burdett in 1938. They have three children: Janet (Jack dec.) Hachmann, Kathy (Stan) Slingerland, and Billy Pylypciw. Also surviving are three grandsons: Jeffrey and Jason Hachmann and Brian Slingerland. There are many loving nieces and nephews who live in the area, and along the East Coast.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, March 5 at St. Mary’s of the Lake Church in Watkins Glen at 11 a.m. Visitation will take place that morning from 9 to 11 a.m. in the attached church link. Burial will be in Montour Falls Cemetery, overlooking the valley she always called "home."

In lieu of flowers, De asked that instead donations be made to St. Mary’s of the Lake Church. Arrangements are under the direction of Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, Montour Falls, NY.

Cora Angeline (Goodrich) Hall

Age 89, of Odessa, NY passed away on Sunday, February 14, 2010 at the Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility, Montour Falls, NY.

Mrs. Hall is survived by her daughter, Anna Mae (Bill) Langley of Aurora, CO; sons Walter (Marie Miller) Goodrich of Middlebury Center, PA and Larry (Connie) Goodrich of Littleton, CO; daughter-in-law Sharon Thompson of Montour Falls, NY; stepson Larry (Judy) Hall of Benton, KY; 15 grandchildren; 21 great grandchildren, and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Her first husband, Earl Goodrich; second husband, Amos Hall; and her son, Floyd Goodrich, predeceased Mrs. Hall.

Mrs. Hall was a life member of the Excelsior Southern Light Chapter #323 Eastern Stars of Big Flats-Breesport, NY.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 534 Church St., Odessa on Friday, February 19 from 6 to 8 PM. The Eastern Stars will hold a service at 7:30 PM. A second set of calling hours will be held on Saturday, February 20th from 10 to 11 AM with her funeral service to follow at 11 AM. Interment will follow at Laurel Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Schuyler Hospital Foundation, Montour Falls, NY or to the Excelsior Southern Light Chapter of Eastern Stars, C/O Carol Masin, P.O. Box 333, Breesport, NY 14816.

Denida L. (DeDe) Hyer

Age 47, of Alpine, New York passed away on Monday, February 8, 2010 at Robert Packer Hospital, Sayre, PA, after a short but courageous battle with cancer.

Her husband, David L. Hyer, survives DeDe along with her sons and daughters-in-law; Greggory & Bridget and Patrick & Lindsey; grandchildren Jonathan, MaKennah and EmmaLee; “Grand Puppy” Remy; parents Charles & Chris Miller; grandparents Bud & Betty Cilley; a brother, Armin & Kelly Miller; brothers-in-law, Jerry & Donna Hyer, and Bill & Susie Hyer; sister-in-law, Donna & Dwight Wilber, along with several nieces, nephews and cousins. Dee was predeceased by her sister, Tina Miller, and her father and mother-in-law, Jerry & Esther Hyer.

Dee was a former employee of Cornell University, Ithaca, NY and had recently been working at Cbord Group, Ithaca. She was very active in the Relay For Life Organization.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY on Saturday, February 13, 2010 between the hours of 1 and 4 p.m. Her memorial service will be held there following visitation at 4 p.m. The Rev. Edward Ayers will officiate.

Those wishing to remember Dee may do so by logging on to Caring Bridge at www.caringbridge.org/visit/deehyer.

John P. (Jack) Kubinski

Age 90, passed away on Thursday, February 4, 2010 while residing at Bethany Manor.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Thelma (West) Kubinski of Elmira, NY; daughters & sons in law Sharon & John Bacon and Susan & Anthony Mastrantonio, and Wendy Kubinski with fiancé Randy Covell; grandsons Jeremy Bacon, Jeffrey & Alianne Bacon and Matthew Cook; granddaughters Allison (Kevin Fitch) Mastrantonio and Erin & Bob Benoit; two great grandchildren, Annabella & Johnathan Bacon; brothers in law Norman West and Richard (Shirley) West; sisters in law Marsha (Dan) Jenkins and Florence (Daniel) Bentley; and several nieces and nephews.

John was predeceased by his parents, Leon & Mary, brother Leon, sister & brother in law Mary & Gordon Connelly, father in law & mother in law Arthur & Myra West, sister in law Joyce West, brother in law Kenneth West, and nephew John Connelly.

He was a 40-year employee of American LaFrance as a project engineer, retiring in 1984. His many loves included hiking, biking and cross-country skiing. He was the oldest person at age 74 to finish the Finger Lakes Trail from end to end with special friend Bob Kephart. He was instrumental in laying out the Queen Catherine Marsh Trail and the Montour Falls Historic Loop Trail. A 27-page guide was published in 1995 by the Finger Lakes Trail Conference, Inc. He graduated from Elmira Free Academy in 1936. He took an ICS Course through the mail to receive his Engineering Degree.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls on Monday, February 8 from 2 to 4 p.m. His funeral service will be held following visitation. The Rev. Larry Burke will officiate. Burial will take place in Montour Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

The family of Mr. Kubinski would like to express their gratitude and thanks for the wonderful care he received by the staff at Bethany Manor.

Merle R. Starkweather

Age 89, of Odessa, New York passed away on Tuesday, January 26, 2010 at Arnot Ogden Medical Center, Elmira, NY.

Mr. Starkweather is survived by his wife of 65 years, Marjorie E. Starkweather; children, Merle Jr. and Jean Starkweather of Elmira, NY, Carol & Frank Dudgeon of Cayuta, NY, David & Helen Starkweather of Montour Falls, NY, Diane Johnson of Florida and Bonnie & Douglas Schwenn of Union Spring, NY; 14 grandchildren and 25 great grandchildren; a sister, Mary & Gus Killkenny of Mainesburg, PA, and a sister-in-law, Esther Starkweather of Montour Falls, NY.

Mr. Starkweather was a member of the Odessa Fire Department with the honor of Fireman Emeritus, was retired from Shepard Niles Corp. of Montour Falls, NY, and was a life member of the William F. Coon Post #2674 Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 534 Church St., Odessa, NY on Saturday, January 30, 2010 from 11 AM to 1 PM; a Memorial Service will follow at 1 PM. Burial will take place in Highland Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

The family wishes to thank all the people at the Arnot Ogden Dialysis Unit for their wonderful care and kindness.

Dorthula Lorraine Tucker

Age 81, of Montour Falls, NY passed away peacefully at Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility, Montour Falls, on Saturday, January 9, 2010. Mrs. Tucker suffered for many years with Alzheimer’s/Lewey Body Dementia.

She was predeceased by her husband, Leo E. Tucker Sr., and is survived by her children, Leo E. Tucker Jr. (Linda) of Montour Falls, Lorraine Hrycyshyn (Richard) of Lincoln Park, NJ, Linda Parker (Dean) of Elgin, SC, and Patrick Tucker (Anne) of Greentown, PA, along with eight grandchildren, Jennifer Verdegaal, Tim Tucker, Andrea and Heather Hrycyshyn, Michele Waters, Michael Rambus, and Patrick and Matthew Tucker, and ten great-grandchildren.

Dorthula was a retired clerk from the Watkins Glen Public Library.

As per Mrs. Tucker's wishes, there will be no prior calling hours and a graveside service will be held at Black River Cemetery, Black River, NY, in late spring 2010.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Vedder & Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls.

Bernice E. Franklin

Age 83, formerly of Cayuta, NY passed away on Wednesday, January 13, 2010 at Elcor Health Services, Horseheads.

Her husband, Burton L. Franklin, predeceased Mrs. Franklin in 1998. She is survived by her children, Roger Franklin, Dale (Bonnie) Franklin and Lou Franklin, and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Mrs. Franklin worked for Thatcher Glass Co. and Larison Poultry farm and was also a homemaker.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 534 Church Street, Odessa, NY on Tuesday, January 19, 2010 from 2-3 PM. Her funeral and committal service will be held there at 3 PM. The Rev. Jeanne Bleiler will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Schuyler County Ambulance Association, PO Box 2, Watkins Glen, NY or to a charity of one’s choice.

John L. Conkright

Age 81, of Lowman, NY, formerly of Montour Falls, NY.

John was born in Montour Falls, NY on April 24, 1928. He leaves his loving family here and joins his predeceased family in heaven.John was predeceased by his parents, Frank & Catherine (Aldrich) Conkright; his brothers, Francis (Bud) Conkright and Harold Conkright; and sisters Bertha Hulslander, Mildred Austin, Myrtle Jenkins, Ruth Greek and Edwina Davis.

John is survived by his devoted, loving wife of over 60 years, Helen (Ellison) Conkright; his dedicated, loving, always there for each other daughter, Debra (Brent) Andrews of Lowman, NY; and his dear loving sister, Ellen Hulslander of Montour Falls, NY. John was the very proud grandfather of his grandson, Erik Franzese (Christie Soltis) of Endicott, NY and leases numerous nieces, nephews and many close friends.

John and Helen were married on September 16, 1949 in Watkins Glen, NY. John was employed by International (Akzo) Salt Co. in Watkins Glen and retired as a supervisor in 1988 with 42 years of service. He was a member of the Mechanics Club and the Montour Moose Lodge, and was an avid bowler in many leagues. He loved fishing, hunting, playing cards, his motor home trips and most of all every day he could be with his family and friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee Street, Montour Falls, NY on Friday, January 15, 2010 from 3 to 7 PM. His funeral service will be held there on Saturday, January 16 at 10 AM. The Rev. Sheila Price will officiate. Interment will be in Pleasant View Cemetery, Reading Center, NY.

Eleanor M. Folnsbee

Age 73, of Montour Falls, NY passed away on Friday, January 1, 2010 at Arnot Ogden Medical Center.

Her daughter, Terry Ector of Watkins Glen, NY and her special grandchildren, Joshua and Chrissy, son Todd Van Alstine of Elmira, NY and his children, Alisha, Tyler and Jordon, survive her. She is also survived by her sisters, Francis Gearing of Rochester, NY, Betty Clark of Horseheads, NY, Margaret (Tom) Elliott of Watkins Glen, NY, Teresa Petitt of Waverly, TN, Loretta Lynch of Mesa, AZ and Mary Johnson of Horseheads. NY; and by her best friend, Beverly Martin.

Mrs. Folnsbee was predeceased by her husband, LeRoy Folnsbee, in 2004 and by her siblings, Agnes Bates, James MacBlane, William MacBlane, Katherine Cole and Anna Jane Kelly.

She was a member of the Montour Falls Moose Lodge and the Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY on Tuesday, January 5, 2010 from 1 to 3 PM. Her funeral service will be held there following visitation at 3 PM. The Rev. Paul Bonacci will officiate. Interment will be in Tyrone Union Cemetery at the convenience of the family.