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Calarco Funeral Home Exterior

 

D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. is a beautifully maintained home, located in  a quiet respectful residential area at 135 Keyes Avenue Watertown, New York .

315-782-4910 • Toll Free: 1-800-772-4201


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Current Services

 

Janet E. Merchant

Janet E. Merchant, 76, of Watertown passed away peacefully at her home on January 22, 2012.

She was born August 25, 1935 to Francis P. and Ivah (Wheatley) Mahan in Watertown where she lived her entire life. She was a devoted wife to Robert C. Merchant (deceased) and a loving mother of six children.

Janet worked diligently with the Thousand Islands Girl Scout Council,and was a founding member of the Watertown High School Booster Club where she was instrumental in advancing women's athletics through the Title Nine movement. For 25 years she touched the lives of area school children as a local bus driver for Freeman Bus Corporation before retiring.

Janet was a member of St.Paul's Episcopal Church serving on the vestry and as a Eucharist Lay Minister. She was also active with the Episcopal Church Women's Group. Currently she was a member of Trinity Episcopal Church Of Watertown.

Mrs. Merchant is survived by 2 sons G. Michael Pfister and Charles F. Merchant (Jennifer Kane); 4 daughters Michele J. Grabill (Bob Grabill), Allison A. Spagnoletti (Anton Spagnoletti), Julie M. Merchant (John Peck), Carol S. Merchant (Toby Frank), 7 grandchildren, Robert J. Merchant (Leah Jones), Janele and Meghan Bailey, Madison and Mallory Spagnoletti, Natalie Peck, Madeline Frank, and 1 great grandchild, Raegan Paige Merchant.

In lieu of Flowers, donations can be made in Mrs. Merchant's name to the ECW of Trinity Episcopal Church.

Cards and letters can be received at 20986 Hadcock Road, Watertown NY.

A private service for family members will be by D.L. Calarco Funeral Home. Internment of her ashes will be at a later date at Trinity Episcopal Church in Watertown.

Condolence

 

Illma M. Archer

Illma M. Archer, 99, 341 Mullin Street, passed away January 17, 2012 at Wesley Health Care Center, Inc. in Saratoga Springs, NY where she had been a resident for the past few months.

 

Mrs. Archer was born September 4, 1912 in Watertown a daughter of Myron Charles and Mary Ellen “Nellie” Phillips. In June of 1931 she graduated from Copenhagen High School and on July 4, 1931 she married Leo F. Archer at St. Mary’s Church in Copenhagen with Rev. Owens officiating. The couple lived in the hamlet of Champion until Mr. Archers death on December 24, 1971 when shortly after Mrs. Archer moved to Watertown.

 

Mrs. Archer was employed with NTL Paper Products and Crown Zellerback international during WWII. She enjoyed her position in Empsall’s at the Hat Bar and in her 80’s was a caregiver for various people in the area. She was a communicant of St. Patrick’s Church, a former communicant of St. James Church in Carthage and a life member of the Daughters of Isabella. Mrs. Archer was a volunteer with the board of elections and a trustee of the rural school both in Champion. She was famous for her homemade donuts and her grandchildren and friends knew her house as “Grandma’s Inn”.

 

Surviving are three sons and two daughters in laws; Leo M., Carthage, Maurice R. and Gayle, Shelby, Montana, Lawrence E. and Carol, Deltona, FL., four daughters and two sons in law; Margaret A. Garris –Alexander  and Allan ”Nick” Alexander, Manlius, NY, Helena R. Archer, Ellenburg Center, NY, A. Carol and Timothy Burns, Long Grove, Il., Mary C. Lee, Gansevoort, NY, thirty one grandchildren, multiple great grandchildren and great great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews. A son Ferdinand, two brothers John Frederick and John Alvin and a sister Mary Doris all died in infancy, a brother Theodore Piddock, two sisters Gertrude Middlestate and Mildred Kehoe, a grandson, Joseph Archer, a granddaughter Sally Archer, a daughter in law Helen M. Schreck Archer, a son in law John Garris all predeceased her.

 

Calling hours will be Friday from 4-7 pm at the D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. A prayer service will be held at 9:15 am Saturday at the funeral home with a 10 am funeral mass at St. Patrick’s Church with Reverend Donald Robinson officiating. Burial will be in the spring at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Copenhagen. Contributions may be made to St. Patrick’s Church, 123 S. Massey Street, Watertown 13601 or to St. James Church, 321 West Street, Carthage, NY 13619. Condolences may be made to www.dlcalarco.com

Condolence

 

 

Joseph P. Scordo

Joseph P. Scordo, of 808 Coffeen Street, passed away at the Samaritan Medical Center on Sunday, January 15th, one day after celebrating his 90th birthday.  He died peacefully, surrounded by his loving family. 

     Mr. Scordo was born January 14, 1922 at 241 Breen Avenue.  A son of Vincenzo James and Marianna Agnesina Scordo, he was one of 11 children.

     He attended Boon Street School, and then graduated from Watertown High School in June 1939.  He took a job with the NYA (National Youth Administration) with which he would travel around the North Country performing various service projects.  One of those jobs as he recalled was painting the wrought iron fence at the Sackets Harbor Military Cemetery in Sackets Harbor.

     He joined the U.S. Army in October 1942.  He received basic training in various locations:  Camp Lee in Virginia, Vancouver Barracks in Washington State, Camp Adair in Oregon, and lastly, Camp Van Dorn in Mississippi.  He then sailed on a Liberty ship from New York City to North Africa.  From there they sailed across the Mediterranean Sea in a convoy headed for Italy.  They came under attack by German fighter planes and a ship next to his was sunk.  He served in a support battalion known as the 299th Quartermaster Unit.  He was honorably discharged in November 1945.

     He returned to Watertown and worked at the New York Air Brake where his father and his brother Ben were also employed.  He worked there until July 1948 when he was hired as a letter carrier with the United States Post Office.  Mr. Scordo worked for the Post Office carrying mail for 26 years before he retired in 1974.  He was well loved by all of the families that he delivered to and was often referred to as “Joe the Mailman,” especially by the residents of Paddock Street, Ten Eyck Street, and Flower Avenue.  

     In the summer of 1955 he was introduced to his future wife, Marian Murphy, by his sister Kay.  Kay and Marian worked together as telephone operators at the New York Telephone Company.  Their first date was on July 23rd 1955.  They went out to dinner at the Edgewood Restaurant in Alex Bay, NY.  Joe proposed to Marian on November 19, 1955 and they were married on May 19, 1956 at St. John’s Church in Plattsburgh, NY. Mrs. Scordo passed away September 6, 1994. 

      He is survived by two daughters and their husbands; Kathy and John Flint, Canton, Maria and Dane Ellingsworth, Watertown, four sons and their wives; James Patrick and Karen, Watertown, John Joseph, Gouverneur, Mark Benjamin and Tammy, Dexter, Patrick Joseph and Wanda, Watertown, a stepson and his wife; (John) Michael and Pirjo Murphy, Canton; 17 grandchildren, Jason, Kaitlin, Tiffany, Chris, Christina, Jimmy, Mariah, Ryan, Sean, Megan, Kyle, Brendon, Tyler, Zachary, Alyssa, Matt and Laura; one great grandson Ryan; a brother Fortunato “Ben”, Watertown, four sisters and a brother in law; Caterina “Kay” and Fortunato “Fred” Benedetto, Watertown, Antionetta, Carmelina A., Lucia A., all of Watertown and several nieces and nephews.

     Two brothers Sebastian “Gus”, Giacomo C. “Jack, three sisters Frances, Mary and Sr. Grace, died before him.

     Mr. Scordo was a communicant of St. Anthony’s Church and a life member of the Italian American Civic Association.  He was a member of the American Legion Post #61, the VFW Post #1400 and the National Association of Letter Carriers.

     Joe was known for growing and selling corn, taking his kids, nieces and nephews fishing and remembering people’s names and addresses. He also enjoyed going to McDonald’s and the Fairgrounds Inn for lunch. He had many friends there and referred to the Fairgrounds Inn as his second home. He was a die-hard New York Yankees fan, and enjoyed attending his children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events.

     For the last several years his 92-year-old brother Ben has lived with Joe and assisted in his care. They enjoyed watching sporting events on TV and spending time together. Caregivers of Watertown also provided his home healthcare for the past several years. Joe looked forward to seeing them on a daily basis.

 

Calling hours will be 2-4 and 7-9 pm Tuesday at the D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. At 7:10 the American Legion will conduct a remembrance service. A prayer service will be Wednesday at 12:15 pm at the funeral home with a funeral mass following at 1 pm at St. Anthony’s Church with Reverend Donald Robinson officiating. Burial with military honors will be in Glenwood Cemetery. Contributions may be made to Credo Community Center, 595 W. Main Street, Watertown, NY 13601 or to St. Anthony’s Church, 850 Arsenal Street, Watertown, NY 13601. Condolences may be made to www.dlcalarco.com.

Condolence

 

 

Louis M. Lucidi

Louis M. Lucidi, 69, County Route 59, Dexter, passed away Tuesday December 27, 2011 at his home under the care of Hospice of Jefferson County and his family.

Mr. Lucidi was born February  12, 1942 in Watertown a son of Louis and Lucy DeGaetano Lucidi. He graduated from Watertown High School in 1960 and attended Jefferson Community College.  On June 1, 1963 he married Thelma ‘Tillie” Eldridge at St. Anthony’s Church with Reverend Brunette officiating.

From 1960 until his retirement in 1999 Mr. Lucidi was an engineering technician for the New York State Department of Transportation. After his retirement he  was a consultant for Clough Harbor, Albany, NY , inspecting summer road rebuilds including Watertown’s Public Square.  Mr. Lucidi was a communicant of St. Anthony’s Church, a member of the Elks Lodge, Rustic Golf Club and the Red Beret Stump Jumpers Hunting Club. He enjoyed spending time with his family, golfing, hunting, fishing, playing cards and wintering in Summerville, Fl.

Surviving besides his wife and father are two daughters and their husbands, Terri and Larry Netto, LaGrangeville, NY, Michelle and Jay Graham, Watertown, four brothers and their wives, David and Maxine, Brookville, Fl., Michael and Josephine (JoAnne), Limerick, John and Pamela, Dexter, Alan and Katherine, Watertown, two sisters and their husbands, Anne Marie and Brian Brown and Mary Lou and Robert LaBreshe all of Watertown, four grandsons, John, Nicholas and Samuel Netto and Maxwell Graham and several nieces and nephews. His mother Lucy Lucidi died previously.

Calling hours will be Friday from 4-7pm at the D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. A prayer service will be Saturday at 10:15 am at the funeral home and a funeral mass will be held at 11 am at St. Anthony’s Church with Reverend Donald Robinson officiating. Burial will be in Glenwood Cemetery, Contributions may be made to St. Anthony’s Church, 830 Arsenal Street, Watertown, NY 13601.

Condolences maybe made to www.dlcalarco.com

Condolence

 

 

 

Earl R.”Red”  Sweet

Earl R.”Red”  Sweet, Sr., 72, 25870 Ridge Road, Watertown, passed away December 26, 2011 at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, Utica, NY.

 Mr. Sweet was born April 18, 1939 in Watertown a son of Nial and Marie Lattmore Sweet. He graduated from Watertown High School in 1958. Mr. Sweet was honorably discharged from the US Army after being stationed in Germany. He married Edith Clement on February 24, 1962 at the Gouverneur Methodist Church. He retired from Northern Transmission, Inc. where he was a mechanic. Mr. Sweet had been a mechanic for Latham’s, Kurt’s Chevrolet, Lofink’s and FX Caprara’s throughout his career.

Mr. Sweet enjoyed hunting, cooking, spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was a member of the Adam’s American Legion #586 and a trustee of the Eagles Club#782 in Watertown.

Surviving besides his wife are a son Earl, Jr., Watertown, a daughter and her husband Vera and Russell Beirman, Watertown, two brothers Nial Francis Sweet, Watertown  and Victor J. Sweet, Virginia. Five sisters Flora Jane Fleming, Chaumont, Ann Smith, Watertown, Linda Helmer, Watertown, Nila Cleaver, Watertown, Donna Forkell, Watertown, four grandchildren, Amber Sweet LePage, Ashley Sweet, Alexandria Sweet and Roy Earl James Beirman, three great grandchildren, Lily Sunshine, Bella Grace, Marlee Ambrosia, several nieces and nephews. A brother Clifford , a sister Lucy and a great grandson Jayden Scott died before him.

 There will be no calling hours. A private service will be held at the D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. A celebration of Mr. Sweet’s life will be held at the Eagles Club, Outer Washington Street, for all of his family and friends on Tuesday January 3rd from 3-6pm. Contributions may be made to Renal Care of Northern New York, 19328 Washington Street, Watertown, Ny 13601. Condolences may be made to www.dlcalarco.com.

Condolence

 

 

Edward F. Whalen

Edward F. Whalen, 76, of 25 Hill Creek Road, Rochester, and formerly of Watertown and Sackets Harbor, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 20, at his home. 

Born Dec. 15, 1935, in Rochester, the son of Frank and Anna May Hardick Whalen, he moved to Watertown as a young child and graduated from Watertown High School in 1954. 

Mr. Whalen attended Clarkson University and graduated from Mohawk Valley Community College with a bachelor of arts in Business. He served in the Army and was honorably discharged. 

He married Sallie A. Affinati on May 14, 1960, at St. Anthony’s Church. 

In 1961 Mr. Whalen was an assistant manager for Montgomery Ward’s for three years. For thirty five years he was a field claims representative for Nationwide Insurance, retiring due to disability. 

Mr. Whalen was a member of the Watertown Golf Club. 

In Rochester, he was a communicant of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church and a former member of St. Patrick’s Church in Watertown. 

Surviving besides his wife of 51 years are a son and his wife, Edward F. Jr. and Joanne, Foxboro, Mass.; two daughters and their husbands, Marianne and Mark Lockerby and Tracie and Dennis Froio, both from Rochester; a sister, Patti Wayland, Bristol, R.I.; eight grandchildren, several nieces and nephews. 

Calling hours will be 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 22, at D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. A prayer service will be 12:15 p.m. Friday, Dec. 23, at the funeral home with a 1 p.m. funeral Mass at St. Patrick’s Church with Reverend Donald Robinson officiating. Burial will be in Glenwood Cemetery. 

Contributions may be made to Muscular Dystrophy, 1425 Jefferson Rd, Suite 2, Rochester, NY 14625.

Condolences may be made to www.dlcalarco.com.

Condolence

 

   

Judith W. Cooper

Judith W. Cooper, 68, of 19103 Caird Road, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 7, at Samaritan Medical Center.

B
orn May 1, 1943, in Syracuse, a daughter of Stanley J. and Eileen G. Devaney Witkowski, she graduated in 1961 from Watertown High School. 

She married Thor Cooper on Sept. 21, 1963, at Holy Family Church with Monsignor Pendergass officiating. 

Mrs. Cooper was an administrative assistant for the special education department of the Watertown School System District Office for thirty two years, retiring in August of 2005. 

She was a member and officer of the Watertown Non-Instructional Twelve Month Clerical Support Association, a member of the Jefferson County Association of Educational Office Professionals, a volunteer for the Jefferson County SPCA, a member of the Willowbrook Golf Club, a member of the Watertown Women’s  Bowling Team and the 600 Club. Mrs. Cooper enjoyed gardening and needle crafts. 

Surviving besides her husband are two daughters and their husbands, Lisa and William Skyles, Las Vegas, Nev., and Laurie and C. Michael Fitzsimmons, Watertown; a brother and his wife, Thomas and Debora Carey, Schenectady; a sister and her husband, Barbara and Girard McCormick, Battletown, Ky.; a sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Ann and Dean Chrissley, Dexter; four grandchildren, Alice and Judith Skyles and Madeline and Ian Fitzsimmons; several nieces and nephews. 

Calling hours will be 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 9, at D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. A funeral service will be 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 10, at the funeral home with Rev. Gail Parsons officiating. Burial will be in Glenwood Cemetery. 

Contributions may be made to Jefferson County SPCA, 25056 Water St., Watertown, NY 13601. 

Condolences may be made to www.dlcalarco.com.

Condolence

 

   

 James R. Kanik

    James R. Kanik, 84, of 108 West St., passed away Thursday, Dec. 1, at Samaritan Medical Center.
Among his survivors is his wife, Evelyn. 
Arrangements are with D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. The service will be Monday at 11 at First Presbyterian Church with Dr. Reverend  Fred Garry officiating.

Condolence

 

 

 

Margery Everett

Margery Everett, 87, Country Manor Nursing Home and formerly of W. Lynde Street died November 8, 2011 at Carthage Area Hospital. 

 Mrs. Everett was born August 25, 1924 in Ellisburg, a daughter of Mark and Doris Goodrich James. She was raised by her grandfather Mark James and graduated from Watertown High School in 1942. 

 She married Frank B. Everett September 13, 1947 at Asbury United Methodist Church.  Mr. Everett died July 10, 1977.   Mrs. Everett was a New York Telephone operator, a greeter at the Jefferson County Office Building, an aid at Cooper Street School and a nurse’s aid at Samaritan Keep Home. Mrs. Everett retired in 2005.  To supplement her retirement Mrs. Everett worked for Green Thumb for Jefferson County, a state sponsored program.   Mrs. Everett was an active member of Bethany Methodist Church in Watertown as well as a member of the Methodist Women, was an election inspector for Jefferson County and was involved with the Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts.  She liked to knit, crochet, and read. 

 Surviving are two sons, Mark and his companion Bruce Ashcraft, Pensacola, FL, Scott and his wife Kim, Watertown, three daughters and two sons in-law, Pamella Everett, Castorland, Peggy and Neil Todd, St. Cloud, FL, Paula and James Adams, Watertown, eight grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews. A daughter Patricia A. Everett died as a young girl in 1960. 

 Calling hours will be Friday from 3-6pm at the D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. A funeral service will be held Saturday at 10 am with Reverend Bruce Chapman officiating. Burial will be in Dexter Cemetery. Contributions may be made to the Country  Manor Nursing Home Activities Fund, 1045 West Street, Carthage, NY 13619. Condolences may be made to www.dlcalarco.com.

Condolence

 

 

 

Lilah Marie Neddo

Lilah Marie Neddo, five day old daughter of Anthony and Justina Neddo, passed away Wednesday November 2, 2011 at Crouse Hospital, Syracuse.

 Surviving besides her parents are a maternal grandmother and step grandfather, Carol and Thomas Hood, Theresa, a paternal grandfather Alfred Edward Neddo III, Florida, a brother Nicholas A. Neddo, Watertown, several aunts, uncles and cousins. Her maternal grandfather, Randy Shaw and paternal grandmother Marie Lucy Neddo passed away previously.

 Calling hours will be Saturday November 5th from 11 am until 1 pm at the D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. A funeral service will be held at 1pm at the funeral home with Reverend Steven Murray officiating. Burial will be in Glenwood Cemetery.  Condolences may be made to www.dlcalarco.com.

Condolence

 

 

Dominick Soluri

Dominick Soluri, 87, of 130 N. Meadow St. passed away Saturday, Oct. 22, at his home where he was under the care of Hospice of Jefferson County and his family. 

Born April 13, 1924, in Watertown, a son of Angelo and Mary Tarzia Soluri, he attended Watertown schools. 

He married Frances J. Benedetto on Sept. 23, 1945, at St. Anthony’s Church with Msgr. Claude Sechi officiating. 

Mr. Soluri was employed with Camp Drum during World War II, Olga Knitting Mill and retired from Hall’s Ski Lift. 

He enjoyed gardening and winemaking. His wine was named ‘Uncle Mickey’s Poison’. 

He is survived by several nieces and nephews, among them his caregivers, Andrea and Bill Decillis, Watertown. 

Mr. Soluri was the second youngest of 21 children. 

He was predeceased by his wife, Frances Soluri, on October 16, 2008, the love of his life, and his twin sister, Elena DeLillie, who died Feb. 8, 2009. 

Calling hours will be 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 25, at D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc., and 11 a.m. to noon Wednesday, Oct. 26. A funeral service will follow with Rev. Richard Kennedy officiating. Burial will be in Glenwood Cemetery. 

Contributions may be made to Hospice of Jefferson County, 425 Washington St., Watertown, NY 13601. 

Condolences may be made to www.dlcalarco.com

 

Condolence

 

 

Anne Marie Antonelli

Beloved mother and grandmother, Anne Marie Antonelli, 89, died peacefully on Friday, Oct. 21, at her home while under the care of Hospice of Jefferson County and her family. 

She was born Anna Marie Piazza at 160 Breen Ave. in Watertown on Oct. 11, 1922, the daughter of Anna M. Tubolino and Benedetto Piazza. 

She had previously lived for 29 years at 527 Coffeen Street. In the 1920s, the family lived at 1019 Arsenal St. until the home burned to the ground in February 1928, at that time she attended Boon Street School. Shortly after, the family moved to a farm on the Watertown-Sackets Harbor Rd. and at that time she along with her siblings attended the country school house at Baggs Corners. The farm was lost during the depression and by 1932 the family migrated back to Sackets Harbor where she attended Sackets Harbor Elementary School. The family was home schooled in religion by their mother, Anna.

The Piazza family settled on a fertile piece of land in Sackets Harbor along the Military Road where both home and barn were built and a thriving business selling produce was established. In the late 1930s, lush gardens along the Military Road allowed the family to subsist by selling fruit, vegetables and cheese in Sackets, Clayton and as far away as Watertown; this brought a profitable income sold mostly by her brothers Tony, Angelo, James and Dominic. 

She married Joseph L. Antonelli on Oct. 19, 1941. at St. Anthony’s Church with Rev. Claude Sechi officiating. 

She is survived by a daughter and her husband, Loretta A. and Gerald A. Story, Calcium; a son, Benjamin H. Antonelli, Rochester; two grandsons and a granddaughter-in-law, Jerry A., Jay and Lisa, three great grandchildren, Aaron, Ryan and Michelle, all of Watertown. 

She was predeceased by her husband, Joseph who passed away December 13, 2003 and by siblings of the Piazzafamily two sisters: Marie Piazza (died at 4 years), Mary Hudson, TX and four brothers: Dominic, CA, James, TX, Anthony, NY and Angelo, NC. She is survived by four sisters: Virginia Walsh, Kalamazoo, MI, Johanna Cronin, Palo Alto, CA, Lucretia Adair, Watertown, NY and Esther Daly, Orange Park, FL. 

Her career began in the mid 1930s taking care of the children and cooking for the families of Majors and other officers at Madison Barracks. She worked at the Box factory in the 1940’s and later for the Grand Union. In 1970, she was hired by P&C and would retire from there in 1990 but would come out of retirement in 2005 at age 83 and return to the deli where she had worked previously. Anne was very competitive and won contests throughout her career as she was voted by Grand Union customers as best clerk in the 1950s. She won numerous contests at the P&C for having consistently increased sales at the deli. 

Apart from working, which was her passion, she devoted herself to her family. She filled the lives of family and friends with gifts and chicken soup. Her hobby was cooking where she specialized in Italian Easter breads and Italian cookies. 

The determination and warmth she brought to all endeavors and relationships will be missed by the many who loved her. 

A graveside service will be held noon Tuesday, Oct. 25, at Lakeside Cemetery in Sackets Harbor with Rev. Richard Kennedy officiating. 

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the angels at Hospice of Jefferson County, 425 Washington St., Watertown, NY. 

Arrangements are with D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. 

Condolences may be made to www.dlcalarco.com.

Condolence

 

 

Rev. Ellison L. Elmer

Rev. Ellison L. Elmer, 77, Watertown, passed away Monday, Oct. 17, at Samaritan Medical Center. 

Born Nov. 28, 1933. in Cortland, a son of Gerald and Violet Marshall Elmer, he graduated in 1951 from Cazenovia High School, received his bachelor's of science degree in music education from Ithaca College in 1955 and his Master of Music degree from Butler University in Indianapolis, Indiana in 1957. 

After graduating he taught and directed the Orchestra and String Program at Hudson Falls Central School from 1957 until 1961 and at Auburn City Schools from 1961 until 1964. He then began his studies at Colgate Rochester Divinity School receiving his Master of Divinity degree in 1968.

Simultaneously, he served as pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Avon in East Avon, N.Y. In 1968, Rev. Elmer became the pastor of the First Presbyterian Church in Mexico, N.Y. 

In 1973, he moved with his family to Watertown accepting a call to become associate pastor of First Presbyterian Church. Rev. Elmer served the next 16 years in this capacity, where his primary responsibilities were leading the board of deacons, Christian Education and youth groups including retreats. 

In 1989, he moved with his wife to become the pastor of Oakfield Presbyterian Church in Oakfield, N.Y. In 1994, he received a call to serve as an interim pastor to First Presbyterian Church, Tonawanda, N.Y. 1996 brought another pastorate as the interim pastor for the North Presbyterian Church, Amherst, N.Y. In 1998, he retired with his wife and they returned to Watertown. 

During his retirement he served briefly as an interim pastor at Watertown First Presbyterian and later was appointed as parish associate. During his ministry he was active in the Presbyteries of Cayuga Syracuse, Northern New York, Genesee Valley and Western, N.Y. 

Rev. Elmer worked in the Watertown Jail Ministry, counseled and taught classes for Credo and the Dry Hill Correctional Facility, counseled at Planned Parenthood in Syracuse, and was a case manager for the Watertown Urban Mission Bridges Program. Rev. Elmer served as president of the Area Council of Churches. He was a former board member of the Children’s Home of Jefferson County and an active volunteer for Samaritan Medical Center. United Way honored him with the United Way’s Giving Award in 2001.

Music was part of Reverend Elmer’s life wherever he was. From 1961 to 1964, he was in the first violin section of the Syracuse Symphony Orchestra. While teaching in Auburn he was a member and dean of AGO. He was a member of the Genesee and Cheektowaga Orchestra, and many ensembles’ including chamber music and orchestras. From 1998 until 2011 he was Concert Master for the Jefferson Community College Orchestra. He sang in many choral groups including Northern Choral Society, the Sackets Harbor Vocal Arts, South Jefferson Community Choir in Adams, and local church choirs. He founded and initially directed Hand Bell Choirs, in Mexico, Watertown and Tonawanda churches. He was a founding member of the River Ringers Hand Bell group. Rev. Elmer was a part of Watertown Musicals, from performer to board member to President. He participated in the Watertown Lyric Theater as concert master. 

He had a love of perennial gardening, reading and writing. He also enjoyed traveling with his wife and family. The annual family vacation always brought an adventure. 

Mostly, he loved giving his gift of life away to others. 

He married Phyllis Hurd on June 30, 1956, at the Presbyterian Church of West Caldwell, West Caldwell, N.J., with Rev. Donald Capp officiating. 

Surviving besides his wife are two sons and their wives, Gerald and Karin, Merrimack, N.H., and David and Michele, Watertown; two daughters and their husbands, Deborah and Gordon Shroufe, Lyons, Michigan and Leanne and John Herrmann, Atlanta, Ga.; eight grandchildren, Kyle Shroufe, Daniel Herrmann, Alexander Elmer, Megan Herrmann, Cassandra Elmer, Nicholas Elmer, Melissa Elmer, Angela Elmer and several cousins. 

A sister, Geraldine M. Elmer, died before him.

There will be no calling hours. A memorial service will be 11 a.m. Saturday Oct. 22, at First Presbyterian Church with Rev. Dr. Fred Garry officiating. Burial will be at a later date. 

Contributions may be made to a charity of one’s choice. 

Arrangements are with D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. 

Condolences may be made to www.dlcalarco.com

Condolence
 

 

Robert W. Cerow

Beloved father and grandfather, Robert W. Cerow, 90, of 1200 Jewel Dr., died Monday, Oct. 17, at his home while under the care of Hospice of Jefferson County and his family.   

Born Aug. 22, 1921, in Watertown, the son of William and Blossom Boutillier Cerow, he graduated from Watertown High school and attended one year of business school in Syracuse.  He served in the Air Corps from October 1942 to November 1945 seeing duty in France and Germany. 

He married Alice A. Graham on Aug. 23, 1942, at First Presbyterian Church, Watertown with Rev. Dr. Robert Wells Young officiating. Mrs. Cerow died May 6, 2011. 

Mr. Cerow was employed as an engineer for New York Central, Conrail and Penn Central Rail Road retiring in May 1982 after 41 years of service. 

He was a long time member of the First Baptist Church in Watertown and later the Chaumont Presbyterian Church.  

He was a life member of the Watertown’s Masonic Lodge 49, volunteered for Meals on Wheels and was on many of the church boards and committees.  

Mr. and Mrs. Cerow moved in December, 2010 from their Watertown home of 45 years to Ives Retirement Community.  

Surviving are two sons and their wives, Ronald and Beth, Norwich, N.Y., and John and Ellie, Watertown, a daughter, Mary and Charles Manning III, Racine, Wis.; five grandchildren, Jeffery Cerow, Concord, N.H., Christina Cerow, Haverhill, Mass., Charles Manning IV, Milwaukee, Wisc., Thomas Manning, Davis, Calf., and Adam Cerow, Norwich, N.Y.; four great-grandchildren, Avrey Cerow, Emma Cerow, Preston Manning and Sawyer Manning.  

A son, Michael, and a sister, Winifred Dowling, died before him.   

There are no calling hours. A memorial service will be 1 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 19, at Asbury United Methodist Church with Reverend Leon Schilling officiating. Burial will be 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 21, in Brookside Cemetery. Arrangements are with D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. 

Contributions may be made to Meals on Wheels 250 Arsenal St., or Hospice of Jefferson County, 425 Washington St., Watertown, NY 13601.

Online condolences can made at www.dlcalarco.com.

Condolence
 

 

Emma M. Duclos

Emma M. Duclos, 101, formerly of Brownville, died Friday, Oct. 14, at Samaritan Keep Home where she had been a resident since 2009.

Born Sept. 28, 1910, in Chattanooga, Tenn., a daughter of Frank  and Alice Adams Miller, she graduated high school in Chattanooga.  

She moved to Saranac Lake where she met and married Fred Duclos. He died in 1958.  

Mrs. Duclos was a home maker and nanny for most of her life, working for several well to do families in the Saranac Lake area. She loved spending time with her family and friends. 

She was a communicant of St. Bernard’s Church and faithful supporter of the cloistered Carmelite order of nuns in Saranac Lake for many years. 

Mrs. Duclos moved to Brownville several years ago to be near her family.  

Surviving are a daughter, Joyce Wood Germain, Brownville; four grandchildren, Robert and Patricia Wood, Clay, N.Y., Suzanne and Jerry Mackey, Brownville, Stephen and Lynne Wood, Watertown, Gregory and Dawn Wood, Cicero; and nine great-grandchildren.   

A son, William, and a sister, Lee Schobert, died before her.   

There are no calling hours. A private funeral service will be at the family’s convenience. Burial will be 11 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 19, at St. Bernard’s Cemetery in Saranac Lake.  

Arrangements are with D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc.

Online condolences can made at www.dlcalarco.com
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William J. Spies, Jr.

William J. Spies, Jr. 64, of 207 Butterfield Ave., passed away Friday, Oct. 7, at the Samaritan Keep Home where he had been a patient since February.

Born May 19, 1947, in Seneca Falls, a son of William J. and Barbara J. Sullivan Spies III, he graduated from Watertown High School and served in the Navy. 

For fourteen years, he was employed with Jefferson County Social Services.

Surviving besides his mother are a son, William J. Spies V, Watertown; two grandchildren, Emily and Ryan Spies; a sister, Barbara Robinson, California; and several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held 1 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 13, at Glenwood Cemetery with Rev. Donald Robinson officiating. 

Arrangements are with D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc.


 

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Alma A. Sparacino

Alma A. Sparacino, 87, of Shangraw Road, passed away 8:15 a.m. Friday, Oct. 7, at home with her loving children at her side. 

She was born March 9, 1924, in Battersea, Ontario, Canada, the daughter of George and Letta McIlroy Elliott. At the age of four she came to the United States with her parents. She graduated in 1942 from Brownville High School. 

Upon graduation, she entered St. Lawrence School of Nursing and graduated with a degree as a registered nurse. After graduation she was employed as an operating room nurse at the House of the Good Samaritan. 

She married Anthony Joseph Sparacino Jr. on May 29, 1949, at Holy Family Church with Msgr. Farrell officiating. 

Alma enjoyed being with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She also enjoyed knitting and the outdoors. 

Surviving are eight children and their spouses, Abbie and Mark Brown, Watertown, Gigi and Emilio D’Argenio, Rodman, Joanne and Steven Cairns, Cicero, Anthony and Marcia Sparacino, Watertown, Concetta Sparacino Monroe, Md., Joseph and Katherine Sparacino, Black River, Margaret and Jason Fuller, Portland, Ore., and Thomas and Julie Sparacino, Rodman; 19 grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren; two sisters Georgena Sorbello, Canastota, and Charlotte VanZelfde, Pennsylvania; several nieces and nephews. 

Her husband, Anthony Joseph, predeceased her in November 2003. 

The funeral service will be at the convenience of the family. 

Arrangements are with D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc.

Contributions may be made to Hospice of Jefferson County, 425 Washington St., Watertown, NY or to a charity of one’s choice. 

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Carmen A. Bocciolatt

Carmen A. Bocciolatt, 89, of 237 Wyoming Ave, passed away Sept. 30, at Samaritan Medical Center. 

Born July 4, 1922, in Watertown, a son of Fred and Angelina DePoto Bocciolatt, he graduated in 1940 from Watertown High School. He won the City of Watertown Junior Tennis championship on July 28, 1938. He was a four-sport athlete playing baseball, basketball, football and tennis. 

He served in the Navy during World War II in the Pacific theater of operations, stationed in Hawaii. After World War II he entered St. Lawrence University in Canton, where he was a member of Alpha Tau Omega fraternity. He graduated from St. Lawrence in June 1949. 

He married Pierina M. “Perry” Marconi on April 6, 1947, at St. Anthony’s Church with Msgr. Claude Sechi officiating. Mrs. Bocciolatt passed away June 18, 2006. 

For 17 years, Mr. Bocciolatt was an insurance agent for Metropolitan Life Insurance Company. 

Mr. Bocciolatt served as executive director of the Community Action Planning Council (CAPC) for 25 years. He retired on July 1, 1992, at the age of 69. 

Mr. Bocciolatt was responsible for enhancing, establishing and maintaining programs such as the Community Center on Alcoholism, Women, Infant and Children (WIC), Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), Head Start, a manpower program and an emergency medical and food program. CAPC was the official federally-designated anti-poverty agency in Jefferson County. Its programs ranged from housing assistance to emergency energy aid to community nutrition. At the time of his retirement Mr. Bocciolatt said he was especially proud of the renovation of the Cooper School on Davidson Street to house all of the CAPC offices and several other human service agencies. The building was opened in June 1991. He was a winner of the annual Human Services Award on May 22, 1986, presented by the Jefferson County Council of Social Agencies. Mr. Bocciolatt also was a member of the Human Resources Advisory Committee to the New York State Association of Counties. 

Mr. Bocciolatt was a member of the Elks Lodge, Italian American Civic Association, American Legion Post 61, Northside Improvement League and the Watertown Golf Club. He had a passion for golf second only to his family. 

Surviving are two sons and a daughter in law, Francis F., Watertown, and Stephen A. and Colleen, Syracuse; five grandsons, Trace J., Oregon, David A., Richmond, Va., and Christopher M., New York City, Kyler and Luke Viggiano both of Syracuse; a great-grandson, Trenton P., Oregon; four sisters and three brothers-in-law, Dorothy and Robert Dietterich, Theresa Capone, Loretta and Joseph Erdner, Carol and David Nims, all of Watertown; a special friend, Mary Kay Bocciolatt; and several nieces and nephews. 

Two brothers Francis and Robert, and four sisters Marcelline Davis, Henrietta Biondolillo, Ann Marie Niewieroski and Rosemary Inabinet died before him. 

Calling hours will be 3 to 7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 3, at D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. A prayer service will be 10:15 a.m. Tuesday at the funeral home with an 11 a.m. funeral Mass at Holy Family Church with Rev. Steven Murray officiating and Rev. Louis Vasile con-celebrating. Burial will be in Glenwood Cemetery. 

Contributions may be made to the Community Action Planning Council, 518 Davidson St., Watertown, NY or to Samaritan Medical Center/ Samaritan Keep Home, 830 Washington St., Watertown, NY 13601. 

Condolences may be made to www.dlcalarco.com

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Amelia M. “Millie” Sayyeau

Amelia M. “Millie” Sayyeau, 88, of 168 Ely St., passed away Wednesday, Sept. 28, at her home under the care of Hospice of Jefferson County and her family. 

Born April 10, 1923, in Watertown, a daughter of Paul and Addie DeLano Pecori, she attended local schools and has been a lifelong communicant of St. Anthony’s Church. 

On July 7, 1945, she married Arnold G. Sayyeau at St. Anthony’s Church with Msgr. Claude Sechi officiating. 

Mrs. Sayyeau was a waitress for Morgia’s Restaurant, New Parrot Restaurant and retired from Grieco’s Brass Rail. 

She was a former member of the St Anthony’s Altar and Rosary Society and the American Legion. Mrs. Sayyeau was famous for her Italian cookies. 

She enjoyed cooking, dancing, playing cards, family and friends. 

Surviving besides her husband are two sons and a daughter-in-law, George R. and Mary Ann, and Paul A., all of Watertown; a daughter and her husband, Michele and John Peters Dennis, Mass.; two brothers, Paul Pecori, Florida, and Henry R. and Mimma Pecori, Limerick; two sisters and their husbands, Angelina and Naz Marconi, Watertown, Rosemarie and Dwayne Stedman, Calif.; four grandchildren, six great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews. 

Six brothers Joseph, Peter, John, Frank, James, Anthony, and two sisters, Frances Badalato and Lillian Pecori, all died before her. 

Calling hours will be 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 2, at D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. A prayer service will be 9:15 a.m. Monday, Oct. 3, at the funeral home with a 10 a.m. funeral Mass at St. Anthony’s Church with Rev. Donald Robinson officiating. Burial will be in Glenwood Cemetery. 

Contributions may be made to Hospice of Jefferson County, 425 Washington St., Watertown, NY and Saint Anthony’s Church, 850 Arsenal St., Watertown, NY. 

Condolences may be made to www.dlcalarco.com.  

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Sr. Marie Cecilia Carvelli (born Rose Theresa)

Sr. Marie Cecilia Carvelli (born Rose Theresa), 95, 400 Pratt Street, died Saturday September 17, 2011 at Samaritan Keep Home where she had been a resident for the last year.

Born , August 30, 1916 in Dorchester, MA, a daughter of Pasquale and Domenica Caruso Carvelli. She graduated from Roxbury Memorial High School and attended Boston Clerical Business School at night .  She was employed by the U.S. Navy in Civil Service before  entering the Precious Blood monastery in Manchester, NH on April 9, 1943. Sister Cecilia was perpetually professed as a Sister Adorer of the Precious Blood on November 23, 1947.

In 1963 Sister became a foundress of the Watertown monastery when it was established here in Watertown, NY. She served her community in a multitude of tasks, including portress, infirmarian, secretarial and art work as well as director of novices. Sister was the community organist for many years. In 2009, Sister Cecilia, was cared for by the Sisters of St. Joseph until her health demanded she be moved to Samaritan Keep Home.

Eldest of four children, all three of her siblings survive her. Dr. Robert (Mary)  Carvelli, Belmont, MA, Dr. William (Margaret) Carvelli, Vero Beach, FL.  and Sister Bette, S. M., a Marist Missionary Sister stationed in Waltham, MA, two nieces and several grand nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be Tuesday 2-4 and 7-9 pm at the Precious Blood Monastery. A funeral mass will be held Wednesday at 10 am at the Sisters of St. Joseph’s Motherhouse with Bishop Terry LaValley, Bishop of the Diocese of Ogdensburg and Monsignor Paul Whitmore, chaplain, officiating. Burial will be in Glenwood Cemetery. Arrangements are with the D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc.

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Betty J. Antonelli

Betty J. Antonelli, 88, of 22095 Patricia Drive, passed away Saturday, Sept.17, at her home under the care of the Jefferson County Hospice and her family.

Born June 22, 1923, in Carthage, a daughter of George and Mary Dunlava Herrick, she attended schools in Carthage. 

She married Paul H. Antonelli on Jan. 27, 1946, at St. Anthony’s Church. Mr. Antonelli died September 1, 1985. 

Mrs. Antonelli was employed at Jefferson Rehabilitation Center as a teacher’s aid until her retirement. 

She made charitable contributions to many children's organizations including Children’s Miracle Network. Mrs. Antonelli was very caring toward children and especially enjoyed being a mom. 

She was also a longtime member of the Women’s Bowling Association of Watertown and a communicant of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church. 

She also enjoyed crafts, puzzles, traveling, cooking and baking. Mostly, she enjoyed giving to others. Mrs. Antonelli is known by her friends, neighbors and even her local businesses for bringing baked goods to share when she would stop in. 

Surviving are three sons, Bruce, Ashville, N.C., Brian and his companion, Heather Clark, Palmyra and P.J. and his wife, Martha, Manhattan; a daughter and her husband, Yvonne and Charles DeMiceli, Watertown; a sister and her husband, Corleen and Daniel Youngs, Boonville; four grandchildren, Heather Antonelli, Chad Antonelli, Anthony DeMiceli, and Adrienne DeMiceli; three great-grandchildren, Seth and Michael DeMiceli and Silas Clark; and several nieces and nephews. 

Calling hours will be 3 to 7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 19, at D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. A prayer service will be 10:15 a.m. Tuesday at the funeral home with an 11 a.m. funeral Mass at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church with Rev. Vincent Freeh officiating. Burial will be in Glenwood Cemetery. 

Contributions may be made to Hospice of Jefferson County, Inc 425 Washington Street, Watertown, NY 13601 or to The Jefferson Rehabilitation Center 420 Gaffney Drive, Watertown, NY 13601.

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Susan M. Garland

Susan M. Garland, 54, of 423 S. Massey St., passed away peacefully in sleep Wednesday, Sept. 14, at her home. 

She was an extraordinary wife, mother, sister, daughter, grandmother and friend went home to be with Jesus. 

Born Jan. 14, 1957, in Lowville, the daughter of Robert and Betty Menard, she graduated from Lowville Academy. 

Susan was married to Michael Marolf which ended into divorce. They had two sons. On Feb. 22, 1986, Susan married Ralph Garland. 

Some of Susan's passions were serving others, which her continuous selfless acts have impacted many lives. She also volunteered her time daily at a New Life Christian Church where her main focus was maintaining the cleaning of the church. She also made props and costumes for the children's ministry and donated her time in the daycare. 

The only thing she was more passionate about was spending time with her family, specifically her grandchildren. 

Susan fought a valiant battle with breast cancer, which she ultimately won. 

Surviving are her husband, Ralph Garland; three brothers, Daniel, David and Stephen Menard; children, Shane and Bobbie Jo Marolf, Jeremy Marolf, Steve and Kim Downey and Jeffrey and Kristin Garland; grandchildren, Erin and Nicholaus Downey, Tyler, Ryan, Riley and Jordan Marolf, Marissa, Matthew, Makenna and Maranda Garland; great-grandchild, Cameron; many niece, nephews, aunts and uncles. 

You can sum up Susan Garlands legacy in two words "utterly selfless". 

This legacy can be celebrated 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 18, with a memorial service at New Life Christian Church. 

Any flowers or donations can be sent to New Life Christian Church, 1222 Arsenal St. Watertown, NY 13601. 

Arrangements are being made by D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. and New Life Christian Church. 

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Frederick F. Schweitzer, Sr

Frederick F. Schweitzer, Sr. 80, of 22338 Wayside Drive, passed away Friday, August 26, 2011, surrounded by his close family and friend, at the home of his daughter and son in law, Judy and Dan Boulton, Brown Road.

Mr. Schweitzer was born July 8, 1931 in the Town of Pamelia, a son of Frederick W. and Florence E. Lucas Schweitzer. He graduated from Brownville High School in 1950 and from SUNY Oswego with a bachelor of arts in education in 1985. Mr. Schweitzer was employed as a journeyman machinist for twenty-seven years with Black Clawson, and later retired in 1991 as a machine technology teacher from Jefferson County BOCES.

On June 8, 1952 he married Mariann Caswell at Saint Anthony’s Rectory. Mrs. Schweitzer died on November 16, 1991.

Mr. Schweitzer was a former member of the Northside Improvement League and the oldest living member of the Big Brook Hunting Club. Mr. Schweitzer was an avid sportsman and enjoyed hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, and four wheeling, and most of all, spending time with his family. Mr. Schweitzer was also a man of many diverse skills and interests. In his earlier years, he operated his own auto body repair business, Fred's Garage in Watertown, NY. He was communicant of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church in Watertown and Immaculate Heart Conception Church in Brownville.

Surviving are a daughter and son in law, Judy E. and Daniel Boulton, Watertown, a son and daughter in law, Frederick F.. Jr. and Julie, Cicero, a brother and his wife, Robert E. and Mary, Watertown, four grandchildren and their spouses, Melissa and Raymond Robinson, Watertown, Michelle and Christopher Center, Dexter, Christie and Michael Folsom, Cicero, Kimberly and Scott Aupperle, Cicero, and six great grandchildren, Allyson, Nicholas and Katelynn Robinson, Christopher and Sophia Center, and Lucy Folsom, and several nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be Monday 3-7pm at the D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. A prayer service will be held Tuesday at 10 am at the funeral home with an 11 am funeral mass at Immaculate Conception Church with Reverend Kevin O’Brien officiating. Burial will be in Glenwood Cemetery. Contributions may be made to Hospice of Jefferson County, 425 Washington Street, Watertown, NY 13601.

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