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 .

Carmella A. Steller

Carmella A. Steller, 87, went to be with the Lord on March 3, 2010.

Born the eldest daughter of Frank and Laura Chiumento Mella, a lifelong resident of Watertown, N.Y., she was one of six brothers and sisters. 

Mella is survived by her husband of 67 years, John R. Steller, Sr., two sons, John Jr., and wife Arlene of Cape Coral, Fla., James and wife Cheryl of Hitchcock, Texas; four grandchildren , Tracey (Steller) Ingle, John R. III., James T. and Lauren (Steller) Markiewicz, five great-grandchildren, Nicolas and Nathan Ingle, Trent Steller, Grant Steller and Carys Markiewicz; her sister, Anita and husband Richard Parish, a brother, Patsy Chiumento; a sister-in-law, June Chiumento; a number of nieces and nephews; and her life-long friend, Mary Cook.

She was predeceased by her parents, brother John Chiumento and sisters , Antonette Rhynhart and Rose Wolfe.

Mella was a devoted and loving wife, mother and sister. 

She was a dedicated homemaker and enjoyed cooking, shopping and family get-togethers, especially the family reunions held at her sister Anita’s cottage.

For recreation, Mella enjoyed dancing; bowling in a mixed league with John, fresh and saltwater fishing and boating, was a member of the Italian American Club Auxiliary and a life-long member of St. Anthony’s Church. 

Mella and John enjoyed traveling together as far away as Australia, and spent many winters fishing in Texas and Florida. In the recent past they enjoyed gambling at local Casinos.

A special thanks to the staff at Ives Hill Retirement Center who provided a safe and caring environment and Mella’s dedicated caregivers, Marlene, Terri and Mindy.

The family will receive family and friends 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, March 5, at D. L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. A prayer service will be held 9:15 a.m. Saturday, March 6, at the funeral home with a 10 a.m. funeral Mass at St. Anthony’s Church with Rev. Donald Robinson officiating. Burial will be  11:15 a.m. Tuesday in Glenwood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Mella’s name may be made to Jefferson County Hospice, 425 Washington St., Watertown, or the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 155, Watertown.

Condolence

Howard R. George

Retired 1^st Sgt. USMC and Judge Howard R. George, 75, passed away February 24, 2010 at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Syracuse, NY. Mr. George lived on Gifford St. Rd., Rt. 12, until he moved to Tully, NY this past year.

    Howard was born February 6, 1935 in Watertown, NY a son of the late Harold George and Margaret Oatman George Lytle. In 1952,at the age of 17, Howard enlisted into the United States Marine Corp. He served one tour in Korea and two tours in Vietnam. While serving 1^st Sgt. George was awarded many awards, achievements and declarations. Among them were the Conspicuous Service Cross, Navy Achievement Medal (Combat “V”), Purple Heart, Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry (Palm), Combat Action Ribbon, Meritorious Unit Commendation Ribbon (1 Star), Navy Unit Commendation (1 Star), Presidential Unit Citation (2 Stars), Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal ( Vietnam), Good Conduct Medal (5 Stars), National Defense Medal ( 1 Star), Vietnamese Service Medal (Cluster), Vietnamese Campaign Medal (7 Stars), Korean Service Medal, United States Service Medal (1 Star), Letters of Congratulations (1970, 1971), Letters of Appreciation (1966, 1970, 1971), Meritorious Mast ( 1964, 1967). 1 st Sgt. George was a member of the All Marine Wrestling Team, All Marine Football Team and All Marine Judo Team.  1^st Sgt. George wrestled and placed 7^th in the 1960 Olympics in Rome, Italy. He later went on to coach football and wrestling.

    On February October 29, 1960 he married Joanne Costello. The marriage ended in divorce. Joanne Frenzel now lives in Sun City, FL.  In 1971, 1^st Sgt. George retired from the United States Marine Corp and returned to Watertown to work as a Criminal Investigator for the Office of the Jefferson County District Attorney. In 1977 he started his own Private Investigation Agency, which is still run by his son William R. George. Mr. George also owned NNY Long Bow Archery Shop and was employed by UPS in preload. Mr. George was the Security Director at the Salmon Run Mall and the House of the Good Samaritan Hospital. Mr. George was the Town of Watertown Justice for eighteen years, during this time he performed many weddings at his home on Gifford St. Rd.

    He founded the NNY Judo Jujitsu and Wrestling Club, which now trains with the CNY MMA in the Northland Plaza in Watertown. Mr. George also ran the Young Marine Program and was a member of the Jefferson County Detachment of the Marine Corps League and the Military Order of the Devil Dogs. He was a member of the VFW, American Legion, NYS Magistrates Association and the Association of Licensed Detectives of New York State.

    Surviving besides his wife Tamara, of Tully NY, a son and his wife William and Meredith George, Watertown, a daughter and her husband Nancy and William Condon, Summerville, SC, six granddaughters; Kallista, Sereenah, Abrianah, Merabella George and Elizabeth and Georgie Condon, three brothers Wayne George, Watertown, Harry George, Clallam Bay, WA, Gary George, Canton, MO, a sister Beatrice George, Tulare, CA, five stepbrothers; Robert C., Richard C., Ronald C., Raymond C. and Roy C. Lytle, one stepsister Patricia A. Lytle, and several nieces and nephews, three step sons Robert, Kyle and Michael Sears, a step daughter Erica McGiveron and four step grandchildren Bailey, Emma, Riley McGiveron and Addison Sears. His parents and a  brother Floyd George died before him.

    Calling hours will be Friday from 4pm to 8 pm at the D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. A burial with full military honors will be held in the spring at Sackets Harbor Military Cemetery. Contributions may be made to the Jefferson County Detachment of the Marine Corps. League, PO Box 6421, Watertown, NY 13601.

Condolence

David William Chisamore

David William Chisamore, 83, beloved husband of the late Sally Walrath Chisamore passed away Wednesday, Jan. 27, at the Masonicare Health Center in Wallingford CT. 
    Born Feb. 7, 1926, in Theresa, the son of Carlton and Nora Evans Chisamore, he was the stepson of the late Edna Chisamore. He proudly served in the Navy during World War II as a radioman aboard a PBM in the Pacific Theatre.
    Mr. Chisamore retired in 1988 from Case Power & Equipment, Buffalo, and resided in Watertown until 2004. 
    He leaves behind his children and their spouses, David & Marcia Chisamore, Nashua, N.H., and Jan and Richard Reutenauer, Wallingford Conn.; grandchildren, Kristin Chisamore Defina, Brian Chisamore, Jason Reutenauer and Erin Reutenauer; a sister, Ruth Moran, Evans Mills; and sister-in-law, Patricia Chisamore, Deland, Fla. 
    A brother, Thomas Chisamore, died before him. 
    An hour of calling will be held 10 to 11 a.m. Monday, Feb. 1, at D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc., with a funeral service to follow at 11 a.m. with Rev. Leon Schilling officiating. Entombment will be in Glenwood Mausoleum.
    In lieu of flowers, gifts in his memory may be sent to the Masonicare Health Center, P.O. Box 70, Wallingford, CT 06492 or the NYS Zoo at Thompson Park, One Thompson Park, Watertown, NY 13601.

Condolence
 

Mary C. Barbara

Mary C. Barbara, 96, formerly of St. Anthony Apartments and Arsenal Street, died Monday, Feb. 15, at James Square Nursing Home, Syracuse. 
    Born March 2, 1913, in New York City, a daughter of Lorenzo Anna Surace, she moved to the Watertown area as a young child and attended local schools. 
    She married Emil "Bob" Barbara on Feb. 2, 1932. He died May 26, 1978. 
    Mrs. Barbara provided child care and was a supervisor for Model Homes for over twenty years.  
    She was a communicant of St. Anthony’s Church, was a member of St. Anthony’s Altar Rosary Society, the Legion of Mary and the Secular Order of St. Francis. Mrs. Barbara volunteered for St. Anthony’s Mount Carmel Fest. She and her sister Margaret Fontana were the chief cooks for the Spaghetti Suppers for many years. 
     She was a member of the Precious Blood Auxiliary, and was an avid gardener.  
    Surviving are a son and his wife, Frank and Ann, Florida; a daughter, Virginia "Ginny"  Barbara, Watertown; eight grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, two step grandchildren and four great great grandchildren. 
    Two infant children died at birth. Two sons, Lawrence and Michael, four brothers, Frank, Pasquale, Antonio and Rocco Surace, two sisters, Jennie Benedetto and Margaret Fontana, and a grandson, Phillip, all died before her. 
    Calling hours are 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 18, at D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. A prayer service will be held 9:15 a.m. Friday at the funeral home followed by 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 St. Anthony’s Church, 850 Arsenal St., Watertown, NY 13601.

Condolence

Gerald Frederick “Tim” Quinn

Gerald Frederick “Tim” Quinn, 90, of 714 S. Massey Street, Watertown, died Monday, January 25, 2010, at Samaritan Keep Home, Washington St., Watertown.

Calling hours will be held Thursday from 4-7 pm at the D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc., 135 Keyes Avenue, Watertown. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 am Friday at St. Patrick’s Church with Reverend Vincent Freeh officiating. A spring burial with military honors will be in Glenwood Cemetery. Donations may be made in Tim’s name to St. Patrick’s Church, 724 Massey Street, Watertown, NY or to the Elks Lodge #496, Youth Fund, Bradley Street, Watertown, NY.

     Mr. Quinn was born in Watertown on December 4, 1919, the son of Clarence J. and Rose Elizabeth Casey Quinn. He graduated from Watertown High School in 1940.

     He served in the U.S. Army during World War II, from April 9, 1942 to December 28, 1945, and was stationed in the South Pacific, Australia and New Guinea in the 1124^th Military Police Unit.

     Mr. Quinn was employed at New York Airbrake, Watertown, for 43 years as a tester, retiring in 1983. He was a communicant of St. Patrick’s Church.

     Mr. Quinn started golfing at the age of nine and went on to become the Watertown Golf Club Champion four times, in 1955, 1956, 1957, and 1959 and the Watertown City Champion in 1966. Mr. Quinn made four hole- in -ones during his golfing career, including one in which a foursome composed of his brother Charles and nephews Robert and Kevin. The ball rolled in front of his brother Bernard ‘Bun’ Quinn( superintendant of the golf club) and into the hole. He and his long time friend and golf partner, Bill Barden, were Member Guest Champions at the Watertown Golf Club at Thompson Park and at Ives Hill Country Club. He was also lead off bowler on the team sponsored by Rand Clothing Store for many years.

     At the age of 58, he married Patricia Ames Brownell in Watertown on April 20, 1979 at Sacred Heart Church, with Rev. Benoit C. Dostie officiating. Witnesses were William and Thelma Koemel. The couple spent winters in New Smyrna Beach, Florida.

    Mr. Quinn was a life member of Watertown Elks #496, VFW Lodge #1400 and the North Side Improvement League. He was a member of the Watertown Golf club since 1945 and a member of American League Post #61.

     He is survived by his wife, Patricia, and a sister-in-law, Beverly Quinn Lynch of Liverpool, N.Y.; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Five brothers Francis, Charles, Harold, Jack, Bernard ‘Bun’ ,two sisters, Rosemary Bergevin and Doris Smith died before him.

Condolence

Helen E. Fluno

    Helen E. Fluno, 74, of 1010 Franklin St., died Tuesday, Jan. 12, at the Samaritan Keep Home. 
    Born Oct. 9, 1935, in Belleville, a daughter of Melvin and Ellen Hedger Parks, she attended Ellisburg and Watertown city schools.  
    She married Leroy D. Fluno on Dec. 3, 1955, at First Presbyterian Church with Rev. Herbert S. Schroeder officiating.  
    Mrs. Fluno provided child care at her home for several years for area children. Her family currently owns and operates Colonial Woodshed and Basket World on West Main Street.  
    She was a member of First Presbyterian Church.
She was a former member of the PTA, bowled in the women’s league at the Watertown Bowl and played softball.  
    Surviving besides her husband are two sons and a daughter in-law, Edward R. and Marlene, S.C. and David L. and his fiancé Patricia Anderson, Watertown; two daughters and a son in-law, Yvonne and Steven Gebo, and Gail Fluno, all of Watertown; a brother, Robert and Janice Parks, Belleville; a sister, Louise Tavani, Fla.; seven grandchildren, three great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews and cousins.  
    A sister, Nancy J. Roshia, died before her.   
Calling hours will be 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 17, at D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. A funeral service will be 11 a.m. Monday at First Presbyterian Church with Rev. Fred Garry officiating. Burial will be in Brookside Cemetery.   
    Contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 155, Watertown, NY 13601 or the American Diabetes Association, Utica NY Office, Lomond Office Park, 110 Lomond Court, Utica, NY 13502.        
 

Mary Lee Kellner

Mary Lee Kellner, 71, of 257 Thompson Blvd., and formerly of Evans Mills, died Monday, Jan. 11, at Samaritan Medical Center.
    Born Dec. 11, 1938, in Steubenville, Ohio, a daughter of Samuel and Beatrice Basch Shaffer, she attended schools in Youngstown and graduated with a bachelor of arts degree from Youngstown State University.
    In 1965, she moved to Watertown. She married David L. Kellner on Aug. 20, 1967, at the Emmanuel Congregational Church. David died March 26, 2007. Mary Lee assisted David in the operation of Kellners Wrecker Service until 1981 and rental property in the Watertown area.
    Until the early 1980s, she was an English teacher at North Junior High School and Case Junior High School.
    Mary Lee was a member of New Hope Baptist Church where she was very involved in church activities especially Bible Study.
    She was a life member of Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, a former member of the Red Hat Society, a member of the New York State Retired Teachers Association and the Order of the Eastern Star.
  Surviving are a step daughter Vicky Kellner–Landers; two grandchildren, Noah and Seth Landers, all of Watertown; a sister, Marilyn Shaffer-Zishka; two nephews, Jeff and Jason Zishka, all of Ohio; and several cousins.
    Calling hours will be 3 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 14, at the D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. A funeral service will be held 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 15, at the New Hope Baptist Church with Pastor Stan Gilcash officiating. Burial will be in the spring.
    Contributions may be made to the New Hope Baptist Church, Building Fund, 19983 NYS Route 3, Watertown, NY or to Augustinian Academy (her grandchildren’s school), 317 West Street, Carthage, NY 13619.

Arthur C. Mecomonaco

Arthur C. Mecomonaco, 83, of Main Street, died Saturday, Jan.  9, at Samaritan Keep Home after a brief illness. 
    Born Jan. 20, 1926, in Watertown, a son of Charles and Dora J. Dick Mecomonaco, he graduated in 1944 from Immaculate Heart Academy. In 1947, he attended Syracuse University’s Radio and Broadcasting School. 
    He married Doris E. Merritt on June 5, 1948, at Saint Patrick’s Church with Reverend Carlton Dewey officiating. Mrs. Mecomonaco died March 21, 2005. 
    Mr. Mecomonaco was employed with the Display Advertising Department of the Watertown Daily Times from 1946 to 1951. From 1951 until 1959, he was an Airmail Clerk and Senior Window Clerk for the United States Post Office in Watertown. In July of 1984, Mr. Mecomonaco retired from owning and operating, Schmid Music store. 
    On July 10, 1944, Mr. Mecomonaco entered the Army, was trained as a radio operator in field artillery as a forward observer. He took part in the invasion of the Palau Islands, the invasion and capture of Guam and the initial invasion of Leyte. After the Phillipines were conquered he took part in the invasion of Okinawa. His observation team of three men were over run by a Japanese Patrol, they were held for three days until they were able to escape during an artillery battle, in which one of his fellow team members was wounded. Mr. Mecomonaco received a Bronze Star Medal for his service in saving his fellow team member s life. Before his discharged on August 10, 1946 he did duty in Tokyo and Yokohama.
    He volunteered for the VA Hospital in Syracuse as a speaker at special events and presented musical entertainment to the residents. Mr. Mecomonaco drove for the Jefferson County Office of the Aging Transportation Program and the Disabled American Veterans Transportation Service. He was a committee member of Snowtown, USA. He was appointed to service in the commission to evaluate the City Charter for the City of Watertown. 
    Mr. Mecomonaco was a life member of the Knights of Columbus serving as a 4th degree knight, several offices and the Forth Degree Color Corp. In 2000 the Knights of Columbus offered a patriotic program of lectures on WWII, Mr. Mecomonaco received the second highest honor in the country for his speech from the Supreme Council of the Knights of Columbus for the two years it was submitted. 
    Mr. Mecomonaco spoke to many history classes and taught portions of history classes at Immaculate Heart Academy and Watertown High School for many years. He was appointed an honorary staff member. Because of his lectures at Senior Citizen Organizations and many civic groups, the State of New York started a program called, Veterans Oral History of WWII. He was contacted, interviewed and video taped to be placed into the permanent archived of the State. He enjoyed traveling, especially going on cruises with his wife.
    He is survived by a son and his wife, Robert and Kathleen, New Philadelphia, OH, two daughters Teresa Mecomonaco and her companion Juliet Myers, and Diane Kimball all of Watertown, seven grandchildren, Jeffrey and Ryan Kimball, Watertown, Tina Kapper, Bobby and Lindsay Mecomonaco all of OH, Eric Lieberman, Stevie Knight, both of Watertown, two sisters and a brother in law Rita and C. Philip Phillipson, Alfred, NY and Mary Daley, Bristow, VA, several nieces and nephews. 
    His parents Charles and Dora, a brother, Alfred, and a sister Stella, all died before him. 
    Calling hours will be 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 12, at the D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. A prayer service will be held 9:15 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 13, at the funeral home. A funeral Mass will be said 10 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 13, at St. Patrick’s Church with Rev. Mark Reilly officiating. A spring burial will be in Glenwood Cemetery with full military honors. 
    Contributions may be made to Immaculate Heart Academy, 1316 Ives Street, Watertown, NY 13601 or Watertown High School, 1335 Washington St., Watertown, NY 13601.

Beverly J. Draper

Beverly J. Draper, 79, of 112 Brown Blvd., died Jan. 5, at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Syracuse.
    Born June 1, 1930, in Rome, she attended schools in Rome.  She married Robert W. Draper on Feb. 4, 1950, in Rome. Mr. Draper died Feb. 17, 2009.  Mrs. Draper was employed with Weston’s Department Store in Watertown and was a caregiver in Brownville. She enjoyed reading and sewing.
    Surviving are three daughters Jodi Lee Brown, Ala., Judy Lyn Hogue and Tammy Sue Draper McDermott, both of Watertown; six grandchildren, four great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Two sisters died previously.
    A graveside service will be held in Evergreen Cemetery, Town of Lee, in the spring. Arrangements are with the D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc.Contributions may be made to the Brownville Fire Department, Brown Blvd, Brownville, New York 13615.

Gerald L. Barry

Gerald L. Barry, 69, 312 Flower Avenue West, passed away Saturday January 2, 2010 at St. Joseph Hospital, Syracuse, New York.

Mr. Barry was born May 9, 1940 in Ogdensburg, NY a son of Edward N. and Cora McEwen Barry.  He received his primary education at Saint Patrick’s School in Watertown, New York, graduated from Watertown High School in 1958 and SUNY Agriculture and Technical Institute in Canton with a degree in Mechanical Engineering.  He married Frances Siragusa April 15, 1961 with Reverend Joseph Siestito officiating.  Mr. Barry was a manager of  the tooling department at the New York Air Brake where he was employed for forty two years, retiring in 2002.  Mr. Barry was an alumnus of Canton ATC, belonged to the New York Air Brake golf league and a member of the Watertown Golf Club for twenty years.  He was also a communicant of St Patrick’s Church.   Gerald was a devoted family man, a true friend to many and a kind and gentle soul.

     Surviving besides his wife of forty eight years, are two sons and a daughter in-law; Robert and Leslie, Seattle, WA and Steven Watertown,  three daughters and a son in-law; Marie McCready, Lorraine Barry, Sandra and Jon  Macy all of Watertown,  a brother and sister in law; Edward H. and Maryann, Tarpen Springs, FL., thirteen grandchildren; Meghan, Steven, Erin, Justin, Soni, Colleen, Jill, Brandon, Samuel, Seth, Kevin, Logan and Lauren, two great grandchildren, Jersey and Mason,  several nieces and nephews.

     Calling hours will be Tuesday 2-4 and 7-9 at D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc.  A prayer service will be Wednesday at 9:15 am at the funeral home followed by a 10 am mass at Saint Antony’s Church with Reverend Donald Robinson officiating.  Contributions may be made to St Patrick’s Church, 123 South Massey Street, Watertown, New York.   

Juanita Rose Mitchell

Juanita Rose Mitchell, 89, 162 Boon Street, died Sunday January 3, 2010 at the Samaritan Medical Center.

Mrs. Mitchell was born October 20, 1920 in Kalispell, Montana a daughter of Wonslow and Hazel Lillie Bailey. As an infant she moved to this area and graduated from Theresa High School in1936. On September 5, 1939 she married Samuel M. Mitchell at St. Anthony’s Church with Monsignor Sechi officiating. Mr. Mitchell died June of 1970. Mrs. Mitchell was employed with Dr. Capones‘s dental office, the New York Telephone Company and retired in 1991 as an interviewer with the Jefferson County Medicaid office. She was a communicant of St. Anthony’s Church.

Surviving are two daughters and their husbands, Lucia and Jasper Shealy, Fairport, NY and Sandra and Frank Bondellio, Morristown, NY a sister Betty Bolen, Newburgh, PA, seven grandchildren, fifteen great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. A brother Jack Bailey and a daughter Donna Bauer died before her.

 Calling hours will be Monday from 4-7 pm at the D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. A prayer service will be held Tuesday at 9:15 am at the funeral home with a 10 am funeral mass at St. Anthony’s Church with Reverend Donald Robinson officiating and Monsignor Anthony Milia con-celebrating. Burial will be at Glenwood Cemetery. The family would prefer donations made in Mrs. Mitchell’s memory to Catholic Charities, 812 State St, or to the Watertown Urban Mission, 247 Factory Street, Watertown, NY 13601

Margaret J. Littlefield

Margaret J. Littlefield, 85, formerly of Cooper Street, died Monday, Dec. 21, at Mercy Healthcare of Northern New York where she had been a patient since February 2007. 
    Born Jan. 27, 1924, in Freeland, Pa., a daughter of Michael and Anna Dvorshak Adams, she graduated in 1942 from Carthage High School.  She married Foster E. Littlefield on Oct. 5, 1947, in Elkton, Md. Mr. Littlefield died Jan. 24, 1992.  Mrs. Littlefield worked for an ammunition depot  in California during World War II.  She then moved to Watertown and was employed at Woolworths Department Store. From 1970 until her retirement in 1989, she assembled motors for fans and computers at Bomax Inc.  Mrs. Littlefield was a former communicant of Holy Family Church.  
    Surviving are four sons and two daughters in-law; Stanley and Nancy, Raleigh, N.C., Thomas, Watertown, David and Rose, Coppers Cove, Texas, and Raymond, Arlington, Va.; a daughter, Carolyn and Michael Lariton, Bloomfield, N.Y.; two sisters, Mary Pais, Deferiet, N.Y., and Irene Ginger, Watertown; five grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. A sister, Helen Turpin, died before her.   
    There will be no calling hours.  There will be a private service in the spring in Depauville Cemetery. Arrangements are with the D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. Contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Northern Regional Office, 120 Washington Street, Watertown, NY 13601.

Condolence
 

Alex C. Velto

Watertown – Alex C. Velto, 68, Executive Director of the Northern New York Community Foundation died Thursday morning of cancer at his home in Watertown. Mr. Velto was born in July 1941 in the Bronx, NY, the son of William Velto and Anne Stefanish. He grew up between the Italian Bronx neighborhood of his father’s family and his Ukranian-born mother’s family on the Lower East Side.

Alex Velto is survived by his wife of 44 years, Jeanne Emery, and their sons:  Bill, his wife Linda Sauter and their two children, Alexander Jacob and Margaret Anne, of Cary, North Carolina, and Steve, of Watertown, as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, aunts, cousins, friends and colleagues. Mr. Velto graduated from Mount St. Michael High School in the Bronx in 1959, where he was selected to the 1958 all NYC Catholic Football team. He received a full football scholarship to Holy Cross College, and graduated in 1964 with a BS in History, after missing a year due to a football injury.

 Immediately after college, Mr. Velto joined a group of activist young volunteers working in Chicago inner-city neighborhoods as teachers and youth workers, met and married Jeanne, another volunteer and launched his career as an organizer and advocate for the poor and for anyone he felt was being treated unfairly. He completed his Master’s Degree in Social Work in Community Organization at the Jane Addams Graduate School of Social Work in 1968. Catholic Charities in Chicago hired him to lead their Area Services Project dedicated to teaching organizational skills in the model of Saul Alinsky, at the grass roots level in neighborhoods on the north and west side of the city. It was a time of action orientation, of social justice thinking and civil rights awakening and he was in the middle of it.

Feeling a need to return to the East Coast, Alex and Jeanne were lured to the North Country by Msgr. Robert Lawler, then Diocesan Director of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Ogdensburg and moved here in August 1972 with their young family. As director of the Watertown Office of Catholic Charities for 14 years Alex was deeply involved in the early formative years of the North Country Children’s Clinic, Health Clinics and Senior Citizen Groups in Jefferson and Lewis Counties. He most notably focused his talent and energy on developing multiple millions of dollars of senior citizen housing in communities across the North Country.   He then went on to be Director of Planned Giving at St. Lawrence University before returning to Watertown in February 1992 to accept the position at the Northern New York Community Foundation.

Alex Velto loved canoeing and hiking the outdoors, particularly in the Adirondacks, and shared his passion generously with friends and all those nieces, nephews and grandchildren. He served on the Adirondack and Central New York Nature Conservancy Boards and as a Trustee of the Adirondack Land Trust and was a founding member of the Black River Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. He was an avid birder, and a regular at the Spring Hawk Watch at Derby Hill in Oswego County. Alex was a talented woodworker, first making furniture that is in the family home and later hand carving elegantly designed wooden spoons, that were coveted by friends and family. His natural ability in athletic activities was nurtured by early trips to Yankee Stadium to see Joe DiMaggio and other greats of the 40’s play, by being given a boat ride by Babe Ruth at Greenwood Lake when he was four years old, and by a fierce determination to stay physically healthy. Like most of the men in his family, he loved to cook and was good at it, often making the “recipe” up as he went along. Bread and pizza were his specialty, as was anything with lots of garlic. No one ever turned down an invitation to dinner.

 A memorial service is being planned for Alex Velto for mid January 2010, to allow for friends and family to gather from around the country. Donations in his memory may be made to the Alex Velto Community Fund at the Northern NY Community Foundation, 120 Washington Street, Watertown NY 13601 and to the North Country Children’s Clinic, 238 Arsenal Street Watertown NY 13601.

Condolence

Joseph R. Coppola

Joseph R. Coppola, 80, 300 Mill Theresa, NY , formerly of Superior Street, Watertown, died Wednesday November 4, 2009 at  Samaritan Medical Center.

Joseph R. Coppola was born December 27, 1928 in Watertown a son James and Mary Cifra Coppola. He attended Watertown Schools and served in the US Army. He was previously married  to Linda LaVancha. Mr. Coppola was employed with Black Clawson and retired from the New York Air Brake as a foundry worker. He was a communicant of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church, member of the Elks Lodge and was a former member of the American Legion.  He was a great grandpa, he loved spending time with his children and grandchildren while watching sports and auto racing on television.

Surviving are a son and daughter in law William and Donna of Theresa, a daughter and son in law Sherry and David Donley of Watertown, four grandchildren Sierra and Wade Donley,  Angela and Jennifer Kloss, five sisters  and two brothers in-law, Antoinette Casler of Clayton, Sarah and Will Varno , Mary Jane Gutherie, Marsha Coppola, all of Watertown  and Brenda and John Kirwin of Middleton, MA, a sister in law, Jennie Coppola of Auburn, five great granddaughters and several nieces and nephews. Three brothers Ettore, James and Mariano died before him.

Calling hours will be Sunday from 1-5 pm at D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. A prayer service will be held Monday at 9:15 am at the funeral home with a 10 am funeral mass at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church with Reverend Richard Kennedy officiating. Burial will be in Glenwood Cemetery with military honors. Contributions may be made to Renal Care of Northern NY, 19328 Washington Street Rd. Suite A, Watertown, NY 13601.

Irene P. Higgins

Irene P. Higgins, 75, of 1375 Sherman St., died Tuesday, Dec. 8, at her home under the care of Hospice of Jefferson County and her husband, Paul. 
    Born Jan. 12, 1934, in Bridgeport, Ohio, a daughter of George H. Beard, Jr. and Evelyn Brownlee, she graduated in 1953 from Martins Ferry High School in Ohio. On October 2, 1956, she entered the Air Force and was honorably discharged March 11, 1959.  During her service she met Paul Higgins and was married September 6, 1958 by Rev. (Capt.) John J. McGowan at Stewart Air Force Base in Newburgh, N.Y. Mr. Higgins was the former director of the Jefferson County Veterans Service Agency. Mrs. Higgins began her banking career at the Riverhead Savings Bank in Riverhead, Long Island, she then was employed by the Industrial Bank in Schenectady for seven years. After her husband returned from Vietnam he was assigned to Ramstein Air Force Base in Germany where she worked for American Express. During her thirty year career she was the Arsenal Street branch manager for HSBC and the Arsenal Street branch manager and main branch customer service officer for Key Bank. On June 1, 1996, she retired from banking. She was a communicant of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church.  Mrs. Higgins was a long time member of the Watertown Golf Club. Being an avid and competitive player she golfed in many tournaments in and around the Watertown Area.  She loved animals and was a cat aficionado. 
    Surviving besides her husband are a brother, George H. Beard III, Tiltonsville, Ohio; two sisters, Iris Clower, Martins Ferry, Ohio, and Maureen Vostatek, Hillyard, Ohio; several nieces and nephews.  A brother, Alan Beard, died before her.
    Calling hours will be 4 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11, at D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. A prayer service will be held 9:15 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, at the funeral home with a 10 a.m. funeral Mass at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church with Rev. Richard Kennedy officiating. Burial will be in Glenwood Cemetery.  Contributions may be made to Hospice of Jefferson County, 425 Washington St., Watertown or to the Sacred Heart Foundation, 668 Thompson St., Watertown

Patricia J. Chamberlain

Patricia J. Chamberlain, 69, of 24396 County Route 54, Brownville, died Monday, Dec. 7, at Samaritan Medical Center where she had been a patient since Nov. 26.
    Born March 9, 1940, in Hamptonburg, N,Y,, a daughter of Andreas C. and Vera Stone Seyfried, she graduated in 1957 from Cortland High School. 

She married H. Edward Chamberlain Jr. on July 2, 1960, at the First Presbyterian Church in Cortland. The couple moved to the Watertown area in 1969.  Mrs. Chamberlain was employed as a clerk with the admissions department of the Samaritan Medical Center between 1980 and 1985. She also was employed with Chamberlain Rental Corp. in Clay, hosted Tupperware home parties and was a homemaker.  Mrs. Chamberlain was a member of the Loyal Samaritans, a group of retired Samaritan employees, and the Red Hat Society.  She enjoyed gardening and traveling. Mrs. Chamberlain collected Department 56 Dickens Village and Marie Osmond Dolls.
    Surviving besides her husband are four sons and their wives, Paul E. and Cristina, Watertown, Thomas S. and Laurie, Mont Vernon, N.H., John M. and Carolyn, Brownville, and Lee A. and Alexandra, Cambria, Calif.; two daughters and their husbands, Lori A. and John Agoglia, Carlisle, Pa., and Susan R. and Michael Kwak, Lacona, N.Y.; two brothers and their wives, Andrew and Joan Seyfried, Dryden, N.Y., and Fred and Helen Seyfried, Cortland, N.Y.' three sisters and their husbands, Shirley and Ace Shackelton, Dryden, N.Y., Vera and James Graves, Ontario, N.Y., and Carol and Larry Taylor, Bonaparte, Iowa; 21 grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.
    Calling hours will be 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 10, at D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc.  A funeral service will be 10 a.m. Friday, Dec. 11, at the funeral home with Rev. Leon Schilling officiating. Burial will be 1 p.m. Saturday at the Willow Glen Cemetery, Dryden, N.Y. 
    Contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association, 6390 Fly Road, 2nd Floor, East Syracuse, NY 13057.
 

Mary Frances Scudera Platt

Mary Frances Scudera Platt, 57, passed away Monday, Nov. 23, in Phoenix, Ariz., surrounded by her family and friends after a long and courageous battle with cancer.
    Born Feb. 6, 1952, in Watertown, the daughter of Carmen and Josephine Soluri Scudera, she was the second oldest of four siblings. She graduated from Watertown High School in 1970.  She moved to Phoenix, Ariz., shortly after graduation where she remained up until her death.
    Surviving are a daughter and her husband, Jody Irene Seeling (Platt) and Patrick Seeling, and her beloved granddaughter Savanna Scarlett Seeling, Wisconsin; a brother and his wife, Carmen and Rosemary Scudera, Fla.; two sisters and their husbands, Andrea and William Decillis, Watertown, and Jody and Frank Amelio, Watertown; many more family members and close friends.
    Calling hours will be 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 2, at D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. Watertown. The funeral service will be 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 3, at the funeral home with Rev. Donald Robinson officiating. Burial will be in Glenwood Cemetery.
    In lieu of flowers, contributions are suggested for Disabled American Veterans, PO Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH 45250-0301, Attn: Gift Processing (www.dav.org).
 

Gerald E. Tanner, Sr.

Gerald E. Tanner, Sr. 65, Redondo Beach, CA, father of Jason Tanner, manager of the Northside Key Bank, died October 23, 2009. A graveside service will be Saturday at 11 am at Glenwood Cemetery with Pastor Kirk Gilcrest officiating, family and friends are welcome. Contributions may be made to Hospice of Jefferson County, 425 Washington Street, Watertown, NY 13601. Arrangements are with D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc.

    Jerry Tanner was born July 23, 1944 in Long Beach, CA a son of Clyde E. and Frances A. Ienna Tanner. He graduated from Aviation High School in Redondo Beach, CA and owned and operated Tanner Construction in Redondo Beach. Jerry enjoyed deep sea fishing, boating and his family.

H. Michael Sprague

H. Michael Sprague, 42, of 27417 NYS Route 3, Watertown died Friday evening at his home while under the care of his wife, family and Hospice of Jefferson County.

Mike was born August 7, 1967 a son of Howard and Julia (Judy) Capone Sprague. He graduated from Watertown High School and attended the Building Trade program at BOCES.  He worked in construction and was an equipment operator with the New York State Department of Transportation until his retirement due to his disability in August of 2009. On June 15, 2002 he married Fran A. Crosby at Point Peninsula with the Judge Robin Curtis officiating. Mike was a communicant of Holy Family Church and a member of the Elks Lodge #496. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting, fishing and four wheeling. He was a master carpenter and plumber using his skills for all phases of construction and renovations.  His mechanical expertise and dedication to dirt car racing was widely known by friends and family. Whether on the water, in the woods or at home he enjoyed most of all spending time with his family and friends.

    He is survived by his wife Fran, his father, Howard Sprague and step mother, Rosie Sprague, Watertown, a brother David, Sackets Harbor, his sons, Dustin and Dominick, a sister and her husband Christine and Phil Desormeau, LaFargeville ,their children, Alexia, Phil III and Julia.  Michael was predeceased by his mother, Judy, in October 1985.  In addition to aunts, uncles and cousins he is survived by two step brothers and two step sisters.

    Calling hours will be Monday from 4-7 pm at the D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. A funeral mass will be tentatively Tuesday at 10 am at Holy Family Church with Reverend Steven Murray officiating. Burial will be n Glenwood Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Contributions may be made to Hospice of Jefferson County, 425 Washington Street, Watertown, NY 13601.

Russell W. Berkey

Russell W. Berkey, 46, Adams Center died Wednesday November 18, 2009 at Samaritan Medical Center.

Mr. Berkey was born in Watertown June 7, 1963 a son of Charles and Virginia Sprague Berkey. He graduated from South Jefferson Central School in 1982. On September 15, 1984 he married Tina Augustine at Holy Family Church with Reverend Garvin Demarus officiating. In September they celebrated their twenty-fifth anniversary with family and friends.  Mr. Berkey was employed at Rod’s Big M in Adams.  He then began his twenty three year career with South Jefferson Central School as a custodian and then became a senior custodian. Mr. Berkey was a communicant of Saint Anthony’s Church. He had a passion for refinishing hardwood floors and was a collector of baseball card and coins.  He was always there to put a smile on your face and joke around with you.

     Surviving besides his wife and mother are: a daughter Heather, Adams Center, two brothers and a sister in law, Jeff and Donna, Vermont, Brian, Adams,  two sisters  and a brother in law, Audrey and Tim Jerome, Adams Center, Louanne Berkey, Adams, his father in law Peter Augustine, Watertown, a brother in-law and his wife, Angelo and Kris, Carthage and several aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.  His father Charles on July 4, 2007, two uncles Robert and Thomas Berkey and a dear cousin Elizabeth Buddenhagen on August 18, 2008 all died before him.

     Calling hours will be Friday from 4 to 8 pm at the D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc.  A prayer service will be held Saturday at 8:45 am the funeral home with a funeral mass will be at 9:30 am at Saint Anthony’s  Church with Reverend Donald Robinson officiating.   Burial will be in Glenwood Cemetery. Contributions may be made to Relay for Life to either the JCC team, c/o Rachael Riordan, 1220 Coffeen Street, Watertown, NY 13601 or to the Dance World Team, c/o Michelle Gillette, 680 Mill Street, Watertown, NY 13601

Condolence

Gerald E. Tanner Sr.

Gerald E. Tanner Sr., 65, Redondo Beach, Calif., father of Jason Tanner, manager of the Northside Key Bank, died Oct. 23.
    Born July 23, 1944, in Long Beach, Calif., a son of Clyde E. and Frances A. Ienna Tanner, he graduated from Aviation High School in Redondo Beach, Calif. He owned and operated Tanner Construction in Redondo Beach.  Jerry enjoyed deep sea fishing, boating and his family. 
    Surviving are two sons and a daughter-in-law, Gerald E., Jr., Redondo Beach, Calif., and Jason A. and Jocelyn, Watertown; two brothers, John A. Morvant, Laguna Hills, Calif., and George W. Morvant, Redondo Beach, Calif.; and three grandchildren, Jacob A. Rutgliano, Jonathan M. Tanner and Joshua A. Tanner, all of Watertown. 
    A graveside service will be 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, at Glenwood Cemetery with Pastor Kirk Gilcrest officiating. Family and friends are welcome to attend. 
    Contributions may be made to Hospice of Jefferson County, 425 Washington St., Watertown, NY 13601.

Condolence
 

Thomas L. Parker

    Thomas L. Parker, 81, formerly of Watertown, died Oct. 3, in Asheville, N.C. 
    There will be no calling hours. A memorial Mass will be held 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 12, at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church with Rev. Richard Kennedy officiating. Burial will be at the convenience of the family. Contributions may be made to St. Williams Church Food Bank, 765 Andrews Road, Murphy, NC 28906. Arrangements are with D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc., Watertown.
    Mr. Parker was born October 4, 1927, in Salisbury, N.C., a son of James W. and Elizabeth B. Cuthrell Parker. In 1949, he graduated from Syracuse University with a Bachelor of Architecture degree. 
    Mr. Parker owned and operated Parker-Soper Architects in Watertown for many years. He was responsible for the design of major architectural projects including schools, colleges, industrial buildings, hospitals, nursing homes, houses and restaurants in several states. 
    Mr. Parker served as a member of the Board of Directors for the Watertown Chamber of Commerce and as Chairman of the Board of the Northern New York Heart Association. He was elected to the board of directors of Watertown Savings Bank on July 13, 1972, and became trustee emeriti on October 4, 2002.  After his retirement he and his wife Elaine moved to Murphy, N.C., where they have lived since 2003.
    Among his survivors are his wife Elaine, two sons and their wives Thomas and Wanda Parker II of Pine Grove, CA, David and Danñe Parker of Clifton Park, NY, three daughters and their husbands Karen and David O’Keefe of Bloomington, NY, Lynn and James Fort of Germantown, Md., Ann and Mark Schroepfer of Rochester, NY; a step son and his wife, Greg and Shannon Genter of Grosse Ile, MI; a step daughter and her husband Kristen and Salah Khlifi of Martinez, Gd.; 16 grandchildren and three great-grandchild

Condolence

Evelyn L. Shullette Bass

Evelyn L. Shullette Bass, 83, formerly of 626 Mundy St., died Friday Oct. 16, at Mercy Health of Northern New York. She had been a resident scene March 3, 2008.  
    Born Oct. 23, 1925, in Theresa, a daughter of Ernest and Louise Vogt Shullette, she graduated in 1943 from Dexter High School.  She married Reginald C. Bass December 11, 1944 at Saint Elizabeth’s Church in Dexter with the Reverend Edward J. Pierce officiating. Mr. Bass died previously.  Mrs. Bass was a seamstress at Olga Knitting Mill Watertown, Hartz Manufacturing and Hanna Sports Ware both of Dexter.   Mrs. Bass was a former communicant of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church and an avid reader.  
    Surviving are a nephew and his wife, Jeffrey and Deborah Shullette, Dexter; a niece and her husband, Blaire and Adam Albanese, Delaware; two cousins, Jean and Richard Flick and Shirley Best, both of Watertown; two great nieces and a great great grand nephew.  A daughter, Lori Gail Bass, and a brother, Robert E. Shullette, died before her.  
    A calling hour will be 10 a.m. Monday followed by an 11a.m. funeral service at D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. with Rev. Mark Rielly officiating. Burial will be in Dexter Cemetery 
    Contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Central New York Chapter, 441 West Kirkpatrick Street, Syracuse, NY 13204

Condolence 
 

Sister Mary Grace Ayotte APB,

Sister Mary Grace Ayotte APB, 87, of 400 Pratt St., died Saturday, Oct. 17, at the Sisters of Saint Joseph’s Motherhouse while under the care of Hospice of Jefferson County.  
    Sister Mary Grace was born Mary Elizabeth Ayotte on July 31, 1922, in Concord, Mass., a daughter of Cham Albert and Margaret Mary Brennan Ayotte. She was baptized at Saint Bridget’s Church in Maynard, Mass. She attended Maynard schools and worked briefly for Raytheon Manufacturing Co. as a secretary clerk. 
    Sister Mary Grace entered the Precious Blood Monastery in 1945 in Manchester, NH, made profession of vows in 1948 and came to Watertown as a Foundress of the local monastery in 1963.  
    She served the community as superior for many years and also served as past president of the American Federation of Sister Adorers of the Precious Blood. Since July, Sister has lived at the infirmary of the Sisters of Saint Joseph Motherhouse.  She was an avid reader.   
    Surviving are a sister and her husband, Constance and Vincent Stigliani, Maynard, Mass.; a sister in-law, Betty Ayotte, Mass.; and several nieces and nephews.  A brother, Joseph, and two sisters, Regina Nee and Joanne Engel, died before her.   
    Calling hours will be 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 21, at the Precious Blood Monastery.  The funeral will be held 10 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 22, at the Sisters of the St. Joseph’s Motherhouse with Monsignor Paul Whitmore, chaplain, officiating and Monsignor R.J. McCarthy, founder of the monastery and Reverend Arthur LaBaff Concelebrating. 

Condolence
 

Concetta Renzi

Concetta Renzi, 87, formerly of Clinton Street, died Tuesday, Oct. 20, at the Carthage Skilled Nursing Facility where she has been a resident for the past two weeks. Miss Renzi had been living with her brother and his wife in Carthage since January 2009.
    Born March 21, 1922, in Watertown, a daughter of Benardino and Marguerite Capone Renzi, she graduated from Watertown High School and the Watertown School of Commerce.   Miss Renzi was a bookkeeper for JJ Capone Co. for 20 years, and an administrative assistant for the Carriage House Hotel and Restaurant for 28 years.  She was a communicant of Holy Family Church.
    Surviving are a brother and his wife, Benjamin and Elizabeth, Carthage; several nieces, nephews and cousins.  A sister, Filamena, and two brothers Michael and Carmen, all died before her.
    Calling hours will be 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 22, at D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. A prayer service will be 9:15 a.m. Friday, Oct. 23, at the funeral home with a 10 a.m. funeral Mass at Holy Family Church with Rev. Steven Murray officiating. Burial will be in Glenwood Cemetery. 
    Contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 120 Washington St., Watertown, NY 13601 or to the Carthage Area Rescue Squad, 200 Riverside Dr., Carthage, NY 13619.

Condolence
 

Hilda M. Miller

Hilda M. Miller, 89, of 231 Franklin St., died Friday, Oct. 23, at Samaritan Medical Center.  

Mrs. Miller was born January 20, 1920 in the town of Brownville a daughter of Walter and Julia Moffett Mitchell. She graduated from Brownville High School in 1935.

A marriage to Edward Wright ended in divorce. On Aug. 9, 1973, she married Robert Miller in Clayton.     

In 1950 she founded and operated the City of Watertown Answering Service for area doctors and businesses. Mrs. Miller was also an initial stockholder for Guilfoyle Ambulance Service when her son Bruce Wright bought the business in 1971. Mrs. Miller retired in 1972 and moved to New Jersey, returning to Watertown in 1989.  

She was a member of the All Souls Unitarian Universalist Church, Watertown, VFW Post 1400 Auxiliary, an avid reader and enjoyed gardening.   

Surviving beside her husband are a daughter and a son- in-law, Emily and Anthony Casselmen, Pamelia; a daughter in-law, Charmaine Wright; a stepson Sean Miller, Watertown; a stepdaughter and stepson in-law, Jacqueline and Brad Stemler, N.J.; a stepdaughter-in-law, Margaret Miller, Watertown; seven grandchildren, six step grandchildren, and several great grandchildren. 

A son, Bruce Wright, a stepson, William Miller, a brother, Neil Mitchell, and a sister, Beulah Moffett, all died before her.   

Calling hours will be 7 to 8:30 p.m. Monday followed by a funeral service at D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. Burial will be 10 a.m. Tuesday in Brookside Cemetery.

 Condolence