30
South Street · Edmeston, NY 13335
(607) 965-8242 home |
contact us
Gordon R. Terry
CFSP
& Joan Kuhn Terry CFSP, Directors
This text will be replaced by the flash music player.
The Houk-Johnston-Terry Funeral Home has been trusted with the
care of the following individuals. We hope this on-line
obituary section will be of assistance to you. Simply
click on the name to view the obituary.
Wilma
A. Bennett, 91, of Burlington entered into
the Lord’s Kingdom on Sunday December 27, 2009.
May the road rise up to
meet you,
May the wind be always at your back,
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
And the rain fall soft upon your fields,
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the hallows of His hand
An Irish Blessing
She was born May 29, 1918 in Pittsfield the
daughter of Floyd D. and Mina E. (Carleton)
Rose. She married Randall O. Bennett on February
13, 1937 by Rev. Harold McKenzie at the
Methodist Parsonage. Randall predeceased Wilma
on September 9, 1999.
Wilma and her husband, Randall, raised a fine
family of seven children. She retired from Kraft
Foods after 24 years of service. Wilma enjoyed
flowers and was devoted to her family. While
employed at Kraft Foods she rose each morning to
provide a warm breakfast for her children,
including heart shaped pancakes. She created
unique “ditty tunes” for each child and for each
situation, and always whistled while she worked.
She was a member of the United Methodist Church,
and had the ability to make a meal out of
nothing.
Wilma is survived by her children and their
spouses Ronald & Jill Bennett, Gordon & Frances
Bennett, Dale & Sandra Bennett, Donna Sweet,
Darleen Squires, Judith Slentz, and Paula & Gary
Schoonover; eighteen grandchildren, and thirty
six great grandchildren; her sister Betty Lou
Lamb & husband John.
Wilma was predeceased by her son Rodney James
Bennett, her grandson Troy Slentz, her
son-in-laws Robert Sweet Jr. & William Squires;
her great grandson, her great granddaughter; her
siblings Eva Dye, Kenneth Rose, Mabel Dye,
Bertha Dockstader, Beverly Weldon, Beatrice
Stergas Kibler Bessinbacker, and Leroy “Buddy”
Rose.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday
December 30, 2009 at noon at the United
Methodist Church in Edmeston with Pastor Doug
Bessemer officiating. Calling hours will be one
hour prior to the service.
Contributions may be made in Wilma’s memory to
either the Edmeston Emergency Squad or the
Edmeston United Methodist Church.
Internment will be at the Burlington Flats
Cemetery.
Arrangements by Houk-Johnston-Terry Funeral
Home, Edmeston.
If you
would like to share your thoughts and memories,
we would be happy to deliver your message to the
family. Simply
click here
to send a message.
Warren
R. Miller, 86, died peacefully on Tuesday
December 22, 2009 at Valley View Nursing Home in
Norwich.
He was born July 20, 1923 in South Edmeston, NY
the son of Lynn W. and Eva May (Morten) Miller.
He married Helen Anderson on May 10, 1947 at the
Second Baptist Church in Edmeston. She
predeceased Warren on March 31, 2003.
Warren retired from Simmons Precision where he
was employed in the Aeronautic Division. In the
1960’s he was a team member that developed a
rocket igniter that culminated with the Lunar
Modular landing on the moon. In his private life
Warren served as a deacon for the Second Baptist
Church, participated with his wife, Helen in the
local bowling league, and volunteered for “Meals
on Wheels”. He was an avid golfer and baseball
fan. As an amateur archeologist Warren has
amassed a large Indian artifact collection that
he donated to the Edmeston Museum.
His children and spouses Lynn W. Miller & Lilie
Welych, Elwood R. Miller & Michelle, Gertrude A.
LaDouceur & Phillip, and June Miller-Williams &
Dale; his grandchildren Alexandra, May, &
Alison; and his brother Robert survived Warren.
His wife Helen, brother Raymond, and sister Alta
predeceased him.
Funeral services will be held on Monday December
28, 2009 at 11:00 am at the Second Baptist
Church in Edmeston with Pastor Ray Merritt
officiating. Calling hours will be held on
Sunday December 27 from 2- 4pm at the
Houk-Johnston-Terry Funeral Home in Edmeston.
Interment will be at Edmeston Union Cemetery.
Contributions may be made in Warren’s memory to
either the Second Baptist Church or “Meals on
Wheels”.
Arrangements by Houk-Johnston-Terry
Funeral Home, Edmeston.
If you
would like to share your thoughts and memories,
we would be happy to deliver your message to the
family. Simply
click here
to send a message.
James
R. Nutt, 30, of West Exeter died suddenly on
November 23, 2009 as a result of a motor vehicle
accident.
He was born August 7, 1979 in Herkimer, the son
of Stevon F. and Brenda (Sullivan) Nutt. He
married Maria McCord on February 2, 2007 in
Springfield.
James was a Licensed Practical Nurse who had
worked at Otsego Manor. He founded the Otsego
Manor Men’s Club. He was an avid hunter,
fisherman, and movie buff. He enjoyed reading,
especially Westerns by Lewis Lamoure or Science
fiction. Jim adored animals, especially his cat
Rufus.
Jim was a member of the West Exeter Fire
Department, and EMT.
His wife Maria; parents Stevon and Brenda Nutt;
sister and brother-in-law Melissa & Joseph Dahms;
brother Stevon F. Nutt II; grandparents James &
Geraldine Sullivan; uncles and aunts Timothy &
Jeanette Nutt and family, Arleigh Nutt, John &
Karen Nutt and family, Cindy Nutt and family;
Benjamin & Nancy Chandler and family, Robert &
Karen Korosec and family, and his in-laws
Douglas and Linda (Cosh) McCord; brother-in-laws
and wives John & Becky McCord, Jeff & Lori
McCord, Ben & Vanessa McCord; his nieces and
nephews Brandy, Joseph, Jacob and Justin Dahms;
Logan, Brooke, Latham, Blake & Madelynn, Dakota,
Kaylynn McCord, and Brittany & Emily Hoag
survive Jim.
Grandparents Richard & Arlene Nutt; and two
uncles Richard Nutt and Owen Nutt predeceased
James.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday
November 28th at 1:00 pm at the Burlington Flats
Baptist Church with Pastor Jay Henderson
officiating. Calling hours will be held on
Friday November 27th from 4 – 8 pm at the
Houk-Johnston-Terry Funeral Home, Edmeston.
Interment will be at the West Exeter Cemetery.
Contributions may be made in Jim’s memory to the
Shriners Patient Transport Fund, Ziyara Temple
AAONMS, 251 Genesee Street, Utica, NY 13501.
Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
It is because of the Shriners that Jim was able
to walk.
Arrangements by Houk-Johnston-Terry Funeral
Home, Edmeston.
If you
would like to share your thoughts and memories,
we would be happy to deliver your message to the
family. Simply
click here
to send a message.
Dorothy
Van Vranken Rackmyer, 92, of Edmeston was
called home to the Lord on November 15, 2009.
She was born November 25, 1916 in Gloversville,
the daughter of Leroy and: Louise (Mosher) Van
Vranken. She married George H. Rackmyer June 26,
1936 with whom she had two children George Leroy
Rackmyer & Gladys Slentz.
Dorothy was an industrious woman, and kept both
her mind and hands busy with diligence. She was
a well respected seamtress, a member of the
Burlington Flats Baptist Church, the Friendly
Neighbors Club, Wharton Valley Grange, and the
Hobby Club. Dorothy enjoyed crossword puzzles,
was devoted to her family, pampered Smokey the
Cat, and loved to dine out whenever possible.
Dorothy is survived by her daughter Gladys; her
grandchildren Richard O. Slentz, Alta L. Van
Vranken, and John A. Slentz; her great
grandchildren Elizabeth Rose Blackwell, Emily
Suzanne Shafer, Joel Andrew Slentz, Jenna Marie
Slentz, Jaci Slentz; her great great
grandchildren Martina R. Blackwell and Gabriel
M. Blackwell; her siblings John Van Vranken,
Ruth Brown, Helen Dickenson, and Francis Van
Vranken.
Her son George Leroy Rackmyer, brothers Leroy
and Abram VanVranken; and sisters Mary Van
Vranken and Lucille Sanquine per-deceased
Dorothy.
Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday
November 18, 2009 at 11:00 am at the Burlington
Flats Baptist Church with Pastor Jay Henderson
officiating. The family will receivce friends
one hour prior to the service.
Contributions may be made in Dorothy’s memory to
the Burlington Flats Baptist Church.
Arrangements by Houk-Johnston-Terry
Funeral Home, Edmeston.
If you
would like to share your thoughts and memories,
we would be happy to deliver your message to the
family. Simply
click here
to send a message.
Peter
T. Miller, 67, of Exeter was called home to
the Lord on Tuesday October 9, 2009.
He was born July 21, 1942 in Mount Kisco the son
of Frank and Ruth (Oakes) Smith.
Peter enjoyed watching TV, and listening to
country music on the radio. He attended the
Burlington Flats Baptist Church, and prior to
retirement he was employed at ARC in Oneonta.
His mother Ruth Smith Miller of Manchester Vt.,
his sister Barbara Foster and husband Bill of
Londonderry, Vt.; his adoptive mother Diana
Buell of Exeter; and sisters Paula Briggs and
husband Tim, Gwenda Slattery and husband Craig,
Carol Buell Madison, Cynthia Arnold and husband
Mark, and several nieces & nephews survive
Peter.
His father Frank Smith, step-father Charles
Miller, adoptive father Kenneth Buell, and
sister Jeanne Miller pre-deceased Peter.
Funeral Services will be held on Monday October
12, 2009 at 11:00 am at the Burlington Flats
Baptist Church with Pastor Jay Henderson
officiating.
Contributions may be made in Peter’s memory to
the Burlington Flats Baptist Church.
Arrangements by Houk-Johnston-Terry Funeral
Home, Edmeston.
Edwin
Frank Lis, 82, died Tuesday October 6, 2009
at Chase Nursing Home.
He was born May 11, 1927 in Rome, the son of
Stanley and Teresa (Lotycz) Lis.
Edwin lived with his brother Edward on the
family dairy farm, and later moved further down
Cty. Rt. 16 in Burlington Green until, due to
ill health, both then relocated to Chase Nursing
Home. Edwin retired from the Lutheran Nursing
home in Clinton where he had been employed as
the Purchasing Agent.
His special friends Rex, Faith Yurenka and
family survive Edwin. His parents, his brother
Edward, and sister Sally predeceased Edwin.
A private committal service will be held at
Burlington Green.
Arrangements by Houk-Johnston-Terry Funeral
Home, Edmeston.
June
(Honey) Mackenzie, 67, of Hartwick, NY
passed away following a brief hospitalization.
She was born on July 18, 1942, in Rochester, NY
to Albert H. Legro and Margaret (Mitchell, Legro)
Graham. She was the fourth of five sisters.
She is survived by her husband of 49 years,
John. She is also survived by a daughter, Deb,
of Hartwick; a son, Mark, of Edmeston;
daughter-in-law, Christine, and their daughter,
Rebekah. Also surviving is a sister, Kathy
Denton, and her husband, Bobby, along with
numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. She was
pre-deceased by her parents; a stepfather, Frank
Graham, and sisters Ann, Joan and Marlene.
She was an active parent often involved with the
school activities of her growing children,
including being assistant Girl Scout leader of
the Hartwick Junior group in the early 1970’s.
She kept occupied with various crafts including
sewing and knitting, often sharing her expertise
with those around her.
She was employed at Astrocom Electronics in the
late 1970’s through the late 1980’s.
One of her greatest joys was the time she spent
with her granddaughter.
In later life, she became an avid “computer
geek”, which allowed her to rekindle and build
new relationships far living family members.
A graveside service will be held on Monday,
September 21, 2009 at 10:00 am at Taylor Hill
Cemetery with Rev. Betsy Jay officiating.
After a hard fought battle with cancer,
Ronald Jay Andela, 63, of West Winfield, was
called home on Sunday, August 23, 2009.
Ron was born October 7, 1945, in Wayne,
New Jersey, to the late Andrew and Catherine
Andela. He was married to Pamela Wilcox for
thirty-one years.
Survivors include three daughters,
Heather Szeflinski and her husband, Paul of Hot
Springs, Arkansas, Wyntre Humphries and her
husband, Travis, of Lake Worth, Texas, and Erica
Andela of Syracuse, New York. He loved spending
time with his three grandchildren, Alexis
Szeflinski, Natalie Szeflinski, and Hunter
Lundy. He will be dearly missed by his brother,
Andrew Andela of Flushing, Queens, and Edmeston,
and sisters Kathleen DeJong of Burlington Flats,
and Ruth Yeilding of Okeechobee, Florida.
We would like to thank Dr. Bravin and
the nursing staff of Bassett Cancer Center for
their continued care and support of Ron during
his tought battle with cancer. Special thanks
need to go to Ron's sister, Kathy, who was by
his side throughout this long ordeal. Without
her love and support, he would have succumbed to
the illness long ago.
There will be no services. A remembrance
gathering will take place at a later date.
Arrangements for cremation have been made with
the Houk-Johnston-Terry Funeral Home in
Edmeston. Memorial donations may be made to the
Bassett Cancer Center in Cooperstown.
Arrangements by Houk-Johnston-Terry Funeral
Home, Edmeston.
Wesley
L. Colegrove, 71, of Edmeston went home with
the Lord on Wednesday August 5, 2009 at the
Loretto Nursing Home in Utica with his family
and dear friends by his side.
He was born at home on March 30, 1938, the son
of Lorenzo S. and Catherine I. (Hamm) Colegrove.
Wesley’s life centered around his families’
farm. He had the innate ability to spot the
newly born calf left in the fields, or the
elusive deer. He was a dutiful son always
willing to help. Wesley also had his favorite
farm animals: his dairy cows, pigs, chickens,
goats, dogs and barn cats – each would be over
fed. He was known for his sweet tooth - willing
to share as long as he kept the bag.
Wesley’s last years were spent at the Loretto
Nursing Home in Utica. Again, he would offer to
help, this time to the nursing staff. Each day
Wesley would find the time to assistance and
also provide comfort to those in need. He will
be missed.
His sister Caroline and husband Ronald Olds; his
sister-in-law Bev Holcomb and numerous nieces &
nephews survive Wesley. He was predeceased by
his parents and brother John Colegrove.
Funeral Services will be held on Saturday August
8th at Noon at the Houk-Johnston-Terry Funeral
Home with Celebrant Joan Kuhn Terry, CFSP
officiating. Calling hours will be from 10:00
till Noon at the Funeral Home prior to the
service.
Interment will be at Edmeston Union Cemetery.
Contributions may be made in Wesley’s name to
the Edmeston Emergency Squad; envelopes will be
available at the funeral home.
Arrangements by
Houk-Johnston-Terry Funeral Home, Edmeston.
Rocky
Pirrone, 62, of Edmeston died Saturday June
27th at Milstein Hospital Columbia Presbyterian
in NYC.
He was born October 18, 1946 I Brooklyn, the son
of Joseph and Frances (Ronello) Pirrone. He
married Patricia Hill on August 16, 1997.
Rocky is survived by his wife Pat; his daughter
Elica Pirrone; his brothers Anthony Pirrone &
wife Joan, John Pirrone & wife Nancy; his niece
and nephew Allison and Joseph; and several
cousins and their families.
Rocky received his degree in Mechanical
Engineering, and applied that knowledge with
many of his life endeavors. During one period of
time he maintained luxury boats in Spain and the
Caribbean. As an adventurous traveler he headed
off to the Orient, South American, and many of
the states in America.
He enjoyed his motorcycle; the many different
mediums of fine art; and was an avid reader. To
many, Rocky will be remembered as a wonderful
storyteller whose door was always open. He
provided the atmosphere of “Come on In”.
On Friday, July 3rd (afternoon or evening) all
are invited to share a memory, a thought or
emotion at Rocky’s and Pat’s home at 17 South
Street, Edmeston.
Contributions may be made in Rocky’s memory to
the American Kidney Fund, 6110 Executive Blvd.,
Suite 1010, Rockville, MD 20852-9813.
Arrangements by Houk-Johnston-Terry Funeral
Home, Edmeston.
Judith
Ann Aikins, 64, of Leonardsville departed
from her earthly home to the peaceful dwellings
of our Lord on June 9, 2009.
She was born November 3, 1944 in Leonardsville,
the daughter of Milton and Isabelle (Dauchy)
Gould. She married her high school sweetheart
Bruce P. Aikins September 23, 1961.
Judy retired from NYC Mutual Insurance Company
where she had been employed as an Accountant.
Volunteering and being supportive to her fellow
man were synonymous with Judy’s name. She was a
stalwart volunteer to the Leonardsville Fire
Department and United Methodist Church, and the
West Winfield Library. Judy belonged to two Red
Hat Societies, and served on the Plainfield Town
Board of Appeals. One of her favorite volunteer
jobs was being the Poster Girl for Faxton
Pulmonary Rehab. Program.
In Judy’s free time she enjoyed sewing and
knitting and was a voracious reader. As a mother
and wife she was always supported, encouraging,
and affirmative. While she would never instruct
her family on what to do, she would offer an
assortment of ideas for them to consider. Her
children consider their parents the best role
models and heroes that God could have provided
them.
Her husband Bruce; her children Brenda and Bret
Belden or West Edmeston, Sgt. Brian P. Aikins of
Iraq, John and Tammy Aikins of Boise, Idaho; her
two very special grandchildren Ashley Ann Belden
and John R. Aikins Jr.; her brother James and
Ellen Gould of Leonardsville; brother- in- law
Larry and Jane Aikins of Redwood; and several
nieces and nephews survive Judy.
Funeral Services and Committal graveside for
Judy will be held at the convenience of the
family at Unadilla Forks Cemetery.
Contributions may be made in Judy’s memory to
the Faxton Pulmonary Rehab. Program at 1676
Sunset Ave., Utica, NY 13502
Arrangements by
Houk-Johnston-Terry Funeral Home, Edmeston.
Anna
L. Barrows, 67, of East Springfield took the
hand of her Savior and passed over to his
eternal kingdom on Wednesday May 27, 2009.
Anna was born in Georgia, and had relocated to
Norfolk, Virginia where she worked as the Head
Housekeeper for Days Inn Marina. She meet her
future husband there, and she and Roger W.
Barrows I were contently married for fourteen
years.
Anna was a very talented artist, who especially
enjoyed graphic design.
She is survived by her husband Roger; her
children Wade Fuljem and Linda Marcella Caskey;
her stepson Roger W. Barrows II; five
grandchildren; two great children; her mother,
Jeanette; and eight brothers and sisters.
Graveside services were held on Monday, June 1,
2009 at 10:00 am at Maplewood Cemetery, Mt.
Upton.
Arrangements by Houk-Johnston-Terry
Funeral Home, Edmeston.
Bernard
W. Ritchey, 87, of Edmeston died
peacefully at home on May 14, 2009.
He was born January 30, 1922 in St. Francis,
Kansas the son of James C. and Daisy I. (Tice)
Ritchey. He married Beatrice Fuller February 15,
1943. She predeceased him on January 12, 2008.
Bernard enlisted in the US Marines in December
1941, and served in the Pacific Theater. He
retired from Edmeston Central School where he
had been employed as a School Bus Driver.
Bernard and his wife Beatrice loved camping and
traveled three quarters of America and seven
provinces of Canada.
Bernard was an extremely talented man; as a
craftsman he made furniture and many of his
children’s Christmas presents. He enjoyed his
model railroad trains, fishing, and hunting.
Bernard had an inquisitive mind and continued to
practice the meteorology he had learned in the
Marines with weather balloons, cross word
puzzles, and history.
His children Karen J. Helmes, Bernadine L. Frate,
Ray Ellen Arnold, James C. Ritchey, Allan D.
Ritchey, Theodore W. Ritchey, and Kurt B.
Ritchey; fifteen grandchildren, and sixteen
great grandchildren; and his brother James
Ritchey survive him
His siblings Alberta Lemery and Mahlon Ritchey
predeceased Bernard.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday May
16, 2009 at 4:00 at the Houk-Johnston-Terry
Funeral Home, Edmeston with Pastor Jay Henderson
officiating. Interment will follow the service
at Edmeston Union Cemetery.
Calling hours are from 2-4 pm prior to the
service at the funeral home.
Contributions may be made in Bernard’s memory to
the Activity Fund at Chase Nursing Home, New
Berlin.
Arrangements by Houk-Johnston-Terry
Funeral Home, Edmeston.
Pauline
(Trowbridge) Nearing, formerly of
Palmyra, NY, died Monday, May 4, 2009 as the
result of a stroke. She was 90 years old. Mrs.
Nearing taught first grade for Palmyra
Elementary School for over 20 years before her
retirement in 1980. She was a member of
Canandaigua Baptist Church. Due to declining
health, Mrs. Nearing moved to Maryland two years
ago to be with family. She was predeceased by
her husband, Henry Nearing and their two infant
daughters. She is survived by many nieces and
nephews.
A funeral service will be held Monday, May 11,
2009 in Burlington, NY. In lieu of flowers,
donations may be sent to the Canandaigua Baptist
Church, 5026 North Road, Canandaigua, NY 14424
Funeral arrangements are by the
Houk-Johnston-Terry Funeral Home, Edmeston.
Robin
Baker Hess, 58, of Pathfinder Village died
peacefully March 13, 2009 at her home
She was born February 6, 1951 in Houston Texas,
the daughter of Jake and Leota (Meyer) Hess.
Robin had a delightful personality that mixed
with her unique sense of humor perfectly. Prior
to her becoming wheelchair bound she enjoyed
bowling, dancing and drama. She especially
enjoyed her role as the wicked witch in “The
Wizard of Oz”.
Robin did not fall short on community
involvement. She was an active participant in
any concert or outing, and loved to go shopping
at the mall.
Her sister and brother-in-law Karen and Arthur
Rogers, her niece Sarah Rogers and husband Bob
Hillman; her nephew Thomas Rogers; and her grand
nephews Soren and Sebastian Hillman survive
Robin.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday
April 29th at 2:00 Pm at the Morgan –Jackson All
Faith Chapel at Pathfinder Village with Rev.
Doug Burleigh officiating.
Contributions may be made in Robin’s memory to
Pathfinder Village, 3 Chenango Rd., Edmeston, NY
13335
Funeral arrangements are by the
Houk-Johnston-Terry Funeral Home, Edmeston.
Robert
Grant Shubert, 70 of Milwaukie, Ore., died
Monday, March 23, 2009.
Bob was born in June 1938, the son of the late
Ludwig and Phebe Shubert.
A 1956 graduate of the former Unadilla Central
School, Bob was a member of Boy Scout Troop No 1
and served in the National Guard.
In 1961, Bob ventured to Alaska, where he worked
in the Alaska King Crab factory. After returning
to his family home in Bainbridge, he worked for
a short time in the Bainbridge Creamery, before
joining his father as a cattle dealer and
auctioneer.
IN 1964, Bob moved to Oregon. He worked for many
years as a bartender at such places as
Timberline Lodge, Taylor’s Viewpoint (where he
met many famous performers such as Buck Owens
and Charlie Pride), and the BPOE. After trying
his hand at real-estate sales, Bob went to work
at the Carlton Chainsaw Chain Co. He retired
from there in August 2008, and was stricken with
cancer in October of the same year.
His sisters and brothers-in-law in New York,
Beatrice Judd of North Syracuse, Elsa and Mike
Lampron of Edmeston, Dorothy and Jim Barnhart of
Unadilla nd Esther and Bill Horstman of Norwich
survive Bob. Many nieces, nephews, cousins,
three aunts and one uncle also survive him.
Besides his parents Bob was predeceased by his
brother Walter, and Walter’s family June,
Hansine and Nelsine; his brother in Law Walt
Judd, and niece Terry Blackman.
A memorial service will be held at the
convenience of the family later in the spring at
a time and place to be announced. Bob will be
buried with the Shubert family in the Ouleout
Valley Cemetery in Franklin.
Please consider donations to the Hospice, which
cared for Bob in his final days: Health Care
Odyssey, 8625 Casade Ave., Ste. 500, Beaverton,
OR 97008
Gerald
Ellsworth Estell, 76, of Edmeston passed
away Wednesday, March 25th at Otsego Manor. He
was born May 28, 1932 in Hardyston Township, NJ,
the son of Theodore and Elva (McDol) Estell.
Jerry was a lifelong dairy farmer and an avid
hunter.
His brothers and their wives, Abram and Grace
Estell, Thomas and Linda Estell and many nieces
and nephews survive Jerry. A brother, Theodore,
predeceased Jerry.
Calling hours for Jerry will be held from 2-4PM
Sunday, March 29th at the Houk-Johnston-Terry
Funeral Home in Edmeston, NY. Funeral services
for Jerry will be held at 4PM at the funeral
home with Pastor Jay Henderson officiating.
Graveside committal services will be held on
Monday, March 30th at 11AM at the North
Hardyston Cemetery, Hamburg, NJ.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Jerry’s
memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s
Association, 140 County Highway 33 West,
Cooperstown NY 13326.
Condolences may be sent to the family online at
www.hjtfuneralhome.com. Funeral arrangements are
by the Houk-Johnston-Terry Funeral Home,
Edmeston, NY.
Elizabeth
G. Convis, 92, died peacefully March 23,
2009 at Gilmour Health Care Facility in Norwich.
She was born at home on March 6, 1917 in South
New Berlin, the daughter of William and Louise
(Bradley) Gardner. Betty married Edward J.
Convis on November 30, 1941 at the Episcopal
Church in Sherburne. He predeceased her on
January 19, 1996.
Betty graduated form Sherburne High School, and
during WWII worked at the Sintilla Plant in
Sidney. In her early years of marriage she took
in laundry, and later worked for Kraft Food in
South Edmeston from which she retired after 17
years.
Betty and her husband, Edward enjoyed many years
of camping between Stanford, Fla. and Chenango
Forks. They also traveled the MotoCross circuit
to watch their son Carl race. She enjoyed
crafts, with crocheting being her specialty. She
was a member of the Eastern Star, and a Charter
Member of the Edmeston Fire Department Aux.
Betty had a great fondness for cats: be it
photos, calendars, or her most recent pet
“Kiki”.
Her children and their spouses Dale and Tina
Convis of Edmeston, and Carl and Terry Convis of
New Berlin; her grandchildren Jonathan and wife
Anne Marie, Anne and fiancé Brandon, Sarah, and
Jennifer Convis; her sister -in-law Madeline
Convis, and nephew Scott Convis survive Betty.
Funeral Services will be held on Thursday March
26, 2009 at 1:00 pm at the Houk-Johnston-Terry
Funeral Home, Edmeston with Pastor Jay Henderson
officiating. Calling hours will be on Thursday
from 11 – 1 prior to the service.
Interment will be at Edmeston Union Cemetery.
Contributions may be made in Betty’s name to
Chenango County Hospice.
Funeral arrangements are by the
Houk-Johnston-Terry Funeral Home, Edmeston.
Beryl
Ida Hourihan passed away peacefully Thursday
March 19, 2009 after a long illness.
She was born August 13, 1924 in Pittsfield, MA,
the daughter of Arthur H. and Ida (Funk) Blaney.
She was a 1941 graduate of Pittsfield High
School and later Berkshire Business College. She
was employed by Atty. William Henderson, and
Berkshire Bank & Trust co. until her marriage.
She returned to work at General Electric Co. in
1967. She joined J. Anderson Plumer and Keith
Crouch as their administrative assistant when
they formed Lightning Technologies, Inc. in 1977
and retired in 1984.
Beryl married James C. Hourihan on August 9,
1947 and they made their home in Pittsfield
until 1998 when they moved to Burlington Flats,
NY. Throughout her busy life as wife and mother
she always found time for flower gardening, bird
watching, and plying the family dogs with love.
She enjoyed all dancing but excelled at square
dancing. Beryl was a communicant at St.
Theresa’s and later at Sacred Heart in
Pittsfield.
She is survived by her husband Jim; daughters
Nancy Archer of Richmond, VA, Joan Hashimoto of
Corrales, NM, and Sally Burnam of Richmond, VA;
her son Neil Hourihan of Burlington Flats, their
spouses, eight grandchildren, and two
sister-in-laws Mary Tobin and Norma Blaney. The
family would like to thank her special friends
Star Bouck and Sue Holbert for their loving
care.
Her brothers Albert and Clayton Blaney
predeceased her.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday March
24, 2009 at Noon at the Sacred Heart Church,
Pittsfield, MA with interment to follow at St.
Josephs’ Cemetery.
Calling hours will be held on Monday March 23,
2009 from 4 – 7 p, at the Houk-Johnston-Terry
Funeral Home, Edmeston.
Contribution may be made in Beryl’s memory to
the Catskill Area Hospice & Palliative Care at 1
Birchwood Drive, Oneonta, NY 13820.
Funeral arrangements are by the
Houk-Johnston-Terry Funeral Home, Edmeston.
William
Bryce Cursh, 78, of Richfield Springs,
passed away peacefully March 16, 2009 at his
home.
He was born December 14, 1930 in Burlington
Flats. He was the son of Frank and Adah
(Nichols) Cursh.
Bill was a farmer as well as doing construction
work. He worked for the Town of Plainfield, and
for thirty years he had been employed by the
Department of Transportation. After retirement
he enjoyed driving and talking with the Amish.
He loved the outdoors, working on wood and
playing with his tractors.
Bill is survived by Lois, his loving wife of
forty-one years; his daughter Leicia and her
husband Tim Kilts, and their two daughters
Nicole & Kimberly of Milford; another daughter
Sonja Cursh of Richfield Springs. His children
from a previous marriage; Susan Granata and her
husband Vince of Oxford, and their daughters
Danielle and Babbett and their husbands David
and Jeremy. William R. Cursh and his wife
Terrie, and their daughter Andrea of Burlington
Flats. Patricia Pegg and her husband John of New
Lisbon and their children. Several great
grandchildren, and his beloved dog Rusty.
As per his wishes there will be no services or
calling hours.
Funeral arrangements are by the
Houk-Johnston-Terry Funeral Home, Edmeston.
Francis
“Joe” Truex passed away peacefully on March
14, 2009 at Bassett Hospital with family members
by his side. Born in Lacona, NY September 25,
1933 to Francis A. and Beatrice (Cummings) Truex,
Joe was a graduate of Hartwick High School,
Class of 1951. He served in the U.S. Air Force
as a flight crew radioman from 1951 to 1953. On
July 28, 1957 he married Greta A. Austin. Mr.
Truex worked for General Electric Corp. and
Colgate University. He was a member of Schuyler
Lake Lodge no. 162 F&AM and Farmers Lodge no.
553 F&AM for 49 years. In 1985 Joe served as
District Deputy Grand Master for the
Otsego-Schoharie District. Joe was also a member
of the Royal Arch. Joe served the Town of Exeter
as Councilman, Justice of the Peace and
Supervisor and was a long time member of the
West Exeter United Methodist Church.
Joe is survived by Greta, his beloved wife of
fifty-one years, his daughter Connie Bennett of
West Exeter, grandson Corey Bennett and wife
Kari of Albany, grandson Ryan Bennett and
fiancée Jessica of Albany and granddaughter
Haylee Jo Bennett of West Exeter. Also surviving
is his sister Rebecca Vatovic of Schuyler Lake
and many nieces and nephews. His brother James
Truex, sister-in-law Janice Truex and
brother-in-law Edward Vatovic predeceased Joe.
Upon the request of the deceased there will be
no calling hours or funeral services. The family
would welcome friends to stop by their West
Exeter home. In Joe’s memory, donations would be
appreciated to the Masonic Brotherhood Fund,
P.O. Box 9020, Hicksville, NY 11802-9020.
Funeral arrangements are by the
Houk-Johnston-Terry Funeral Home, Edmeston.
Elaine
B. Hastings, 53, of West Edmeston passed
away peacefully in the comfort of her home, with
her family at her side, after a courageous
battle with cancer.
She was born April 13, 1955 in Oswego, the
daughter of Ralph and Thelma (Muir) Hastings.
Elaine’s home in West Edmeston was her
sanctuary. It was here that she pitched to
Ashton to hone in his baseball skills. It was
here that she would watch Glenn ride the gator,
and it was here where she would watch Tony
Stewart in NASCAR. While Elaine loved to be
home, she was easily swayed for a visit to the
slot machines, her favorite being Foxwood.
Another outdoor enjoyment for Elaine was to go
fishing with Ma Prentice.
Her sister Alice Ford; her brothers Gary, Ron,
Dan and John (Duffer); along with several nieces
and nephews survive Elaine.
Also surviving Elaine is Dorothy Prentice, Donna
Prentice, Ann McMillin, Denise Williams, Angela
Prentice Meyer, and her very special “buddies”
Glenn William and Ashton Michael Prentice.
Her parents Ralph and Thelma Hastings, Glenn
Prentice Sr., and Glenn Prentice Jr. predeceased
Elaine.
The family extends special thanks to the staff
at the Cancer Center and Hospice & Palliative
Care of New Hartford.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in
Elaine’s memory to Hospice at 4277 Middle
Settlement Road, New Hartford, NY 13413.
Funeral services will be private for family and
friends.
Funeral arrangements are by the
Houk-Johnston-Terry Funeral Home, Edmeston.
Army
Corporal Michael L. Mayne, 21, of
Burlington Flats died Monday February 23, 2009
due to injuries sustained in Iraq during his
service to our country.
Michael was born October 9, 1987, in Ilion the
son of Lee & Cathy (Francisco) Mayne. With his
two friends Tony and Tom he joined the Boy
Scouts. His Eagle Scout project dedicated poles
and flags for each branch of the United States
Armed Forces on the Burlington Flats Veterans
Memorial Park. Michael also played football,
basketball and golf in high school, and
participated in the ski club, Jr. Rifle and
Sport rifle team at the Burlington Flats Fish &
Game Club.
After graduation from Edmeston, he joined the
United States Army in July of 2006. Before his
Iraq deployment, Michael was stationed at Fort
Wainwright, Alaska, the home base of the 1st
Stryker Brigade Combat Team of the 25th Infantry
Division. The brigade deployed to Diyala
Province in Iraq last fall for a yearlong tour
of duty.
Michael was a first rate friend, he was a
natural born leader. He offered to many his
unique sense of humor and compassion for others.
For one so young it is hard to imagine the
diverse depths of Michael: be it his commitment
to Boy Scouts, his family, close friends, God,
and Country. He was a hero.
Michael is survived by his parents Lee & Cathy
Mayne, his sister Sherry, and brother-in-law
John Hawes; his grandmother Lucille, Great Aunts
& Uncles: Anne & Dick Weiss, and Dawn Hull;
Aunts & Uncles: Dale & Iva Mayne, Dennis &
Theresa Mayne, Cindy Prill, Elaine & Rich Volpe,
Gloria & Rob Lindsay. Several Cousins & spouses:
Paula, Greg, Alan & Kristen, Jason & Robin,
Brian, Adam & Dawne, Ryan, Marley & Gavin.
His grandparents Herbert Mayne, Howard & Eloise
Francisco, and cousin Paul Prill predeceased
Michael.
Full Honor Military Funeral services will be
held on Tuesday March 3, 2009 at 11:00 am at
Edmeston Central School Gymnasium with Pastor
Jay Henderson and Lt. Col. Olsen officiating.
Calling hours will be held on Monday, March 2,
2009 from 2:00 till 8:00 pm at the Burlington
Flats Baptist Church. Ceremonies by Troop 9 Boy
Scout and Cub Scouts and Wharton Valley American
Legion Post #1311 will be held at 7:00 pm.
Interment will be at Burlington Flats Cemetery
in the spring.
Contributions may be made in Michael’s memory to
the Edmeston Central School Scholarship Fund.
Funeral arrangements are by the
Houk-Johnston-Terry Funeral Home, Edmeston
Edna
Pentzien, 77, of the town of Burlington,
passed away Monday, February 16, 2009 at MI
Bassett Hospital with her family members at her
side. She was born September 6, 1931 in Jersey
City, NJ, the daughter of George and Edna (Finck)
Livesey. She spent twenty-five years with the
love of her life, Pete McLean. Pete predeceased
her on September 8, 1989.
Edna proudly served as an election inspector in
the Town of Burlington for 29 years. She was
ever so supportive of Pete when he worked as the
Burlington highway superintendent running the
house, farm and raising the children while he
worked on the town roads. Edna had special
talents that included crocheting and knitting;
as an excellent seamstress she provided wedding
and bridesmaid dresses for her daughters. Edna
enjoyed her garden as her children fondly
recalled the meals prepared and the canning of
berries, jellies and jams. She loved crossword
puzzles and forwarding and receiving emails.
Edna was an advocate for organ donation and
spent many hours at the Kidney Foundation booth
at the Morris Fair. Her greatest accomplishment,
in her opinion, was her family that she so loved
to nourish with love.
Edna is survived by her children Judith (David)
Pierce, Susan (Ed) Lum, William (Sue) Pentzien,
Peggy Zvirzdin and fiancé James Duncan and
Cynthia (Gene) Dexter, ten grandchildren and
eight great-grandchildren, her brother; Vincent
(Wanda) Brannick of Gilbertsville and sister
Anna Powers of Texas and many nieces and
nephews.
Funeral services for Edna will be held on
Friday, February 20th at 1PM at the Burlington
Flats Baptist Church with Pastor Jay Henderson
and Pastor Bob Martin officiating. Calling hours
for Edna will be Thursday, February 19th from 4
to 8 PM at the Houk-Johnston-Terry Funeral Home,
Edmeston.
Funeral arrangements are by the
Houk-Johnston-Terry Funeral Home, Edmeston.
Priscilla
Baxter
died at home in Melbourne, Florida, on January
17, 2009. She was born in Ilion, New York on
February 1, 1930, to Bernice and Louis La
Forest. Her aunt and uncle, Ethel and Harry
Baulch, of Exeter Center, NY, raised her.
Priscilla graduated form Richfield Springs High
School and received a B.A. in Sociology from
Syracuse University.
She married Edwin S. Baxter, of Maywood, New
Jersey, in 1951. After an early career as a
social worker, she became a homemaker.
Priscilla loved the warm weather and swimming to
be found at the beaches of Florida. After her
husband’s retirement from SUNY Oneonta, they
enjoyed being snowbirds and commuting between
first Oneonta, and then Exeter Center, and
Florida, before moving down to Florida fulltime.
She is survived by her husband, Edwin; a
daughter Paula and her spouse, Barry Katzen, of
White Plains, NY.
Her sister Yvonne Doty of Pittsburgh, PA.
predeceased Priscilla on February 18, 2009.
Committal services for Priscilla will be held on
May 15th, 2009 at 11:00 AM at the West Exeter
Cemetery with Pastor Doug Besemer officiating. A
luncheon will follow at the West Exeter Fire
House.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday May 14
from 4:30 – 6:30 at the Houk Johnston-Terry
Funeral Home, Edmeston.
Funeral arrangements
are by the Houk-Johnston-Terry Funeral Home,
Edmeston
Kenneth
G. Mayne, 78, of Burlington Flats died
Sunday January 25, 2009 at MIB in Cooperstown.
He was born at home February 26, 1930 in
Burlington Flats, the son of Kenneth H. and
Dorothy (Fauth) Mayne. He married Anita M. West
on February 16, 1952 at the United Methodist
Church in West Burlington.
Ken graduated from Edmeston Central School in
1947, and then attended Cornell University
majoring in Ag & Tech, graduating in 1952. He
was drafted during President Truman's term,
where he joined the United States Army 82nd
Airborne Division. He obtained the distinction
of Master Jump Instructor, and was honorably
discharged with the rank of Sergeant.
Ken was an avid outdoorsman with activities
including hunting, fishing, trapping and
forestry. He was a member of Otsego County
Federation of Sportsman, the NYS Conservation
Council where he had served as Councilman, the
Adirondack Wild Turkey Federation founding
member, the NYS Sporter Rifle League, NYS
Trapper Assoc., NYS Fur Takers of America, the
NYS Houndsman Assoc, the Burlington Flats Fish &
Game Club founding member, the Hartwick Rod &
Gun Club, the Tri-County Pistol League, and Ken
was also inducted to the NYS Outdoorsman Hall of
Fame an honor he truly treasured. Ken was a
Certified Hunter Safety Instructor, a life
member of the NRA, and retired from the
Carpenter Union, Local 258.
Ken was a member of the Burlington Flats
Baptist Church, the Wharton Valley American
Legions Post #1311, served as past Master of
Farmers Lodge #533 F & Am of Edmeston, a 32nd
Degree member of the Scottish Rite, a Shriner of
Ziyara Temple, Utica, and Otsego Chapter #26
Royal Arch Masons.
Ken owned and flew a 1946 Aeronca Champ
airplane, and was a member of the Aircraft
Owner’s and Pilot Association.
Ken is survived by his wife Anita; his children
Michele Schoellig (David) of Burlington Flats,
Keith L. Mayne (Suzanne) of Bayport LI, and
Missy Corn (Geoffrey) of Oakland City IN; his
grandchildren Jason Schoellig, Mishea Krahnert,
Jessie Harrison, Kaitlyn and Julianne Mayne, and
Amanda Beil; his great grandchildren Richard
David & Carter Krahnert, Gunner Mason Schoellig,
and Aurora Annalise Ramirez; his brother James
L. Mayne (Jacqueline); and his step sisters
Sharon Shaw (Bob) and Pearl Whigham.
His parents, step-mothers Maude Whigham and
Connie Crandall, and step-sister Frances Welch
predeceased Ken.
Calling hours are Wednesday evening from 6-8
pm, Thursday from 2-4 and 7-9 pm. A Masonic
Service will be held at 7pm Thursday evening at
the Houk -Johnston-Terry Funeral Home in
Edmeston, NY. Funeral Services will be held on
Friday January 30, 2009 at 11 am at the
Burlington Flats Baptist Church with Pastor Jay
Henderson Officiating.
Donations may be made in Ken’s name to the
Burlington Flats Fish & Game Club, 328 Pleasant
Road, Edmeston, NY 13335 or the American Cancer
Society 57 Front St., Binghamton, NY 13905-4797;
or the Farmers Lodge # 533 F & AM. 328 Pleasant
Road, Edmeston, NY 13335.
