1949
Robert Tilden Shone passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, two months short of his 94th birthday. He was an adventurer, lifelong learner, engineer, skier, runner, lover of nature, humanitarian, and Korean War Veteran. Predeceased by his wife, Ruth. He is survived by his daughter, Carrie Shone and son, Tom Shone; grandchildren, Kristy Weick, Jamie Weick, Rob Shone, Evan Shone and Nate Shone; daughter-in-law, Michele Shone; sister-in-law, Phyllis Anderson, and her family; and his dear friend, Dorie Starks. The family would like to thank Pittsford Ambulance, Strong Memorial Hospital’s Emergency Department, Wilmot Cancer Center, and Palliative Care Unit, The Jewish Home Rehab, Heather Heights, Shepherd Home, and additional doctors and nurses for their compassionate care of Bob in his final months.
1953
Edmond Charles Kagi passed away on October 6, 2022. Ed entered the world on December 13, 1931, in Syracuse, New York. The third of four children, Ed was born to Swiss immigrant parents, and his first language was Swiss German. In 1949, he graduated from Fayetteville High School. He then attended the State of New York College of Environmental Science & Forestry at Syracuse University, graduating in 1953 with a degree in Landscape Architecture. On July 27, 1953, he was drafted into the US Army, which was the same day the armistice was signed to end the Korean conflict. Trained as a medic, he was assigned to the 253rd Medical Platoon in Germany where he acted as company clerk and had the responsibilities of providing basic medical services to local units. Before his honorable discharge in 1956, he found the time to visit friends and relatives in Switzerland during his 18 months of service. In 1956, Ed enrolled in the Graduate School of Design at Harvard University and earned his Master’s in Landscape Architecture in 1958. Following graduation, he worked as an assistant planner in the Syracuse Office of Urban Renewal for one year before deciding to follow his love and future wife to California in 1958, where he was employed by the Contra Costa County Planning Department. One year later, he was hired at the Marin County Urban Planning Department. During this time, he proposed to and married his wife Alice in 1960. He and his wife then built a home in Mill Valley, CA and started a family. Ed joined Sasaki-Walker Associates (SWA Group) of San Francisco in 1963 as a Landscape Architect and Urban Planner where he became partner and Principal in 1967. Ed steadily built business contact relationships and was spending much time in Texas with projects designing several new developments and master planned communities in the later 1970’s. In 1979, Ed moved his family to Houston, Texas to open a new SWA Group office, and he was instrumental in opening another branch office in Dallas, Texas. Both offices are still open today. During his tenure at SWA, Ed had the opportunity to represent the company not only domestically, but in locales such as Africa, China, Abu Dhabi, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, France, and several other European countries. He remained with the SWA Group for the rest of his career as a Landscape Architect and Urban Planner, retiring in 1997. Some of his best-known projects include: First Colony Master Planned Community, Sugar Land, Texas Green Meadows, Des Moines, Iowa Regency, Omaha, Nebraska Allen Center, Houston, Texas Burnett Park, Fort Worth, Texas New Towns in Saudi Arabia for Aramco; Dhahran, Ras Tanura, Abqaiq and Udailiyah Ed strongly believed in the mentorship of developing landscape architects and contributed to teaching of architecture. He was a visiting critic at Louisiana State University in 1975, 1989-1991 and 1995, as well as at Harvard University in 1976. In 1989 and 1991, he was a lecturer at the School of Architecture at the University of Washington. During a trip to Kenya in the early 1970’s, Ed met Samuel Mathau, a teenager and aspiring architect whom he sponsored to continue his schooling in the US. Ed and his wife helped and supported their new son through his studies. Sam became a successful architect and urban planner as well as a beloved member of the family, and he is now a professor of architecture and planning at a local university in the San Francisco Bay Area. Ed was always active in his church and very strong in his Christian faith throughout his life. Ed regularly showed and shared God’s love and the gospel with many. He was an active member of Marin Covenant Church in Marin County, California, where he was instrumental in helping guide the development of a new church building. In Houston, he was a member of First Presbyterian Church (FPC) in Houston, attending the Special Topics bible study class since 1980. After his retirement, Ed dedicated time to Nehemiah Center and Operation ID, two outreach programs supported by FPC. The Nehemiah Center paired church mentors with at-risk youth, and Ed befriended and guided several students, some of whom stayed connected with him years after leaving the program. Operation ID, in which Ed participated for 18 years, assisted challenged community members in obtaining identification documents needed for employment. Ed often took his grandchildren with him to “help” at Operation ID during his time there. Ed was preceded in death by his daughter, Karen. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Alice, his daughters, Loren (Jay) and Sonja (Tom), his son Sam (Debra) and three granddaughters and three grandsons.
Edward Lee Vought, 92, passed away on July 27, 2022, at his residence. Edward is survived by his wife, Ann, daughter, Linda (husband Brett) Spencer, and son, Lee Vought. Also surviving are nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren with one on the way. He was preceded in death by daughter Martha Braunscheidel Willis. Edward was born July 3, 1930, in Syracuse, NY, to the late Charles Morris and Gertrude Lena (Provorse) Vought. He graduated from College of Forestry at Syracuse University in 1952 and was awarded “Outstanding Graduating Senior” by the faculty. He trained as a pilot in the US Air Force and was honorably discharged in 1955. He met the love of his life, Ann Carolyn Harder, during chemistry lab at Syracuse University, after requesting a change in lab station assignment so that he could be stationed next to the prettiest girl in the class. On December 31, 1955, he and Ann were married at her family home in Bath, NY. Edward sold construction equipment for International Harvester and Dresser Industries, working in Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Soviet Union before retiring to Hammondsport, NY. During retirement he served for many years on the village Planning Board. He was also active in the Rod and Gun Club and the Curtiss Museum. Edward enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating and competitive archery, and was a Senior National Archery Champion. Regular gatherings with friends to play Bocce, dominoes, or cards was cherished.
1954
John Andrew Ronscavage passed away peacefully on October 3rd, 2022, at the age of 95. John was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 45 years, Judy, and his siblings, Walter, Mae, and Robert. He is survived by his son, Adam, and his granddaughter, Marin. John grew up in Hudson, PA, and upon graduating high school, joined the United States Marine Corps, where he served bravely from 1945-1952. John was a proud recipient of the Asiatic Pacific Campaign Military Ribbon, the China Service Military Ribbon, the National Defense Service Military Ribbon, and the World War II Victory Military Ribbon. Upon his honorable discharge and military retirement, John went on to play short-stop for the Andalusia Arrows Baseball Team. A lifelong St. Louis Cardinals fan, he attended many baseball games and always read the sports pages first. One of John’s last cherished memories was attending a Colorado Rockies baseball game with his son a week before his passing, where he heartily cheered, enjoyed a ballpark hot dog, and remembered all of the players and their statistics. After his own baseball career came to an end, John went on to attend SUNY ESF, where he earned a degree in Forestry and Landscape Architecture. He worked for the National Park Service for many years, where he grew to be a leader and integral part of the team that designed both the Yellowstone National Park and the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, MO. He met his wife, Judy, while working in San Francisco, CA. Both were transferred to Wheat Ridge, CO in 1971 for their respective careers, where they went on to live almost 50 years as active participants in the community and loving parents and grandparents to their devoted, son, Adam and granddaughter, Marin. John retired from the Park Service in 1985 and took up watercolor painting as one of his many hobbies, eventually filling his home, and the homes of family and friends, with numerous works of personalized art. John always loved the outdoors and shared his love of fishing and camping with his son, who continues to fly fish to this day, both in honor of his father and the love of nature that was instilled in him. Kind, patient, and disciplined, John would also suggest “just taking it easy every once in a while” as well. He will forever be deeply loved and dearly missed.
1955
James Marshall Harper, 88, passed away peacefully in home on August 10, 2022. He was born April 17, 1934, in Camden, New Jersey. Jim grew up near Syracuse, New York and came from humble beginnings. With his love of learning and keen intellect, he graduated top in his high school class and earned a full ride to SUNY ESF, where he studied forestry/pulp and paper. Following graduation in 1955, he settled in Richmond, Virginia, where he met his wife, Barbara, and began what was to be a long and successful career in the paper industry. In 1969, Jim became one of the original founders of the James River Paper Corporation, a specialty paper company that began in Richmond and expanded to become a large international corporation. He retired from James River Corporation in 1992, which allowed him to pursue his many varied hobbies, activities, and interests. On Saturdays for sure and many other days, he could be found on the course with his golf buddies, where he found both success (multiple holes-in-one) and frustration. He was an astute bridge player who rarely lost a game. He remained an avid follower of Syracuse sports (Go Orange!!). He also loved anything that challenged him mentally, watching Jeopardy, playing crosswords, the art of gardening, sailing and travel. Jim was often whistling and enjoying simple gifts in life. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose natural humility, kindness and powerful intellect will be missed by all.
Richard G. Serino passed away on August 31, 2022. He was born in New York City on June 1, 1934, the son of Jerry and Elsie Serino. He attended Iona schools in New Rochelle, NY, playing baseball and graduating from high school in 1951. He went on to SUNY ESF earning a degree in Forestry in 1955. Following college, he served in the U.S. Navy aboard the aircraft carrier WASP with cold war tours in the Mediterranean and South Atlantic. Joining the US Forest Service, he was assigned to Custer where he met and married Janet Gates, daughter of Hobart and Ann Gates, in August 1960. They began their sixty-two-year journey together in the Black Hills at the Tepee Ranger Station near Newcastle, WY. They followed this first tour with assignments in Wyoming, Colorado, and California. His peers along the way called him the “Guardia Del La Floresta” and he served as Smokey the Bear for parades. He retired from the Inyo National Forest in January 1988. In retirement, Dick sold cars, life insurance, and was a personal trainer for the YMCA and became an inspiration for his clients. The Serino family returned to Custer in 1996, where Dick served on the Board of the TELCO Credit Union and on the City Planning Commission. He was an avid skier and sports fan. Dick is survived by his wife, Janet, daughter, Mary Louise Krull (Henry); grandchildren: Anton, Elan, & Alyeska; daughter, Deneyse Serino; grandson; Benjamin Churchill (Laura); and great-grandson Walker of; granddaughter Tanya Churchill; and granddaughter Sophie Serino.
Jack Van Surdam passed from this life at age 92. Born in Long Island, NY on February 2, 1930, the son of John H. Van Surdam and Julie Meed Van Surdam, he died surrounded by his family on November 29, 2022, at Cottingham Hospice House. He was preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Catherine Van Surdam, nee Humphries; his son, John Randall Van Surdam; his daughter, Cynthia Allison Whelan, nee Van Surdam (wife of Kevin Whelan); his grandchildren Brendan Whelan (husband of Stacy Whelan, nee Henderson); Theresa Mosher, nee Whelan (wife of Peter Mosher); Lucas Whelan; SSgt Conner Whelan, ANG (husband of Lauren Whelan, nee McHenry); Elizabeth Whelan; John Paul Whelan. He is also survived by six great-grandchildren Madeline Mosher, Lillian Whelan, Zelie Mosher, Kai Whelan, Lawrence Mosher, and Camille Whelan. Born and raised on Long Island, Jack developed a love for baseball and a lifelong affinity for the New York Yankees. He was drafted into the US Army and served with distinction in the Korean conflict. Returning home after recuperating from injuries, he attended SUNY ESF to study forestry. During this time, he met and married his wife, Kay, in 1954. She had been attracted to him by his masterful entertainment on the piano. He also played minor-league baseball where, as a left-handed pitcher, he was feared for his wicked curveball that he deployed to devastating effect. Upon graduating from Syracuse in 1955, he joined the U.S. Forrest Service and then The International Paper Company where, in a remarkable career, he attained the position of Timberlands Manager for South Carolina and North Carolina. A long-time resident of Wilmington, NC, he was active in coaching youth sports, playing minor-league baseball ($40 for a win $25 for a loss), and in the social life of his community. Retiring from The International Paper Company in 1985, he pursued his passions for tennis and golf. He was a fierce competitor who reveled in giving younger opponents a run for their money by using superior strategy and skillful shots. In 2015, he relocated to Seneca to be nearer to his son and daughter. At this stage of his life, he loved spending his days outside clearing brush, landscaping, and tending to the health of the wooded area on their property. He is remembered by his children as a dutiful and loving father who provided for them and engaged in outdoor activities with them. He instilled in them a work ethic that they practice to this day. His grandchildren remember his wry sense of humor, a steady stream of wisecracks, and deep generosity to them. Jack had a profound effect on his family who were molded by his honesty, moral integrity, love for the outdoors, and strong work ethic.
1956
Donald (Don) Ferlow, passed away on December 5, 2022. He was born October 27, 1934, in Jersey City, New Jersey. He received a in BS (’56) and Master’s (’59) in Landscape Architecture from SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry. Don was an avid golfer in college and focused his thesis on golf course design. Don met his wife, Dorothy, through the Lutheran Campus Ministry while attending SUNY ESF. They were married on June 23, 1957. Don joined the Navy and became an officer and served from 1959 until 1963. They moved briefly to Syracuse, NY and then to Stamford, CT. In Stamford they began a consulting business that became Environmental Design Associates (EDA) where Don was the founder and principal designer, and Dorothy was the CFO and Business Manager. Don and Dot had 3 bright and energetic children grow up in Stamford. In 1991 they decided to remove themselves from the bustle of the metropolitan NY area to Cazenovia, NY. Don had a job with Stearn’s and Wheeler in Cazenovia where he was a Wetland Scientist and specialist in Constructed Wetlands. Don and Dot joined Good Shepherd Lutheran Church where they were active with gardening and landscaping. In time, Don became an adjunct Professor with SUNY ESF and enjoyed passing his knowledge on to the students. Don was a member of several environmental groups often speaking at engagements at both national and international conferences. Don became a fellow of the American Society of Landscape Architects in 1992, a national award of excellence. Don was a member of the Cazenovia Conservation Commission from 2006 to 2021. Donald and Dorothy spent a lot of time in the Adirondacks where they had a family cabin. This was the meeting place for the family and extended family during the summers. Many happy memories were made at the cabin and many young minds learned about the environment by Don’s tutelage. Don was widowed and is survived by three children, Nancy (Jon Shapiro), Jeanne (Charles) Bronner, and James (Judilynn) Ferlow, and 5 grandchildren Alex, Emma, Cody, Nick, and Michaela.
1957
Jerome Arthur Moore, 85, passed away November 1st, surrounded by loved ones in his home. Born in North Tonawanda, New York on March 24, 1936, a son of the late Leslie John and Geminia Alexander (Small) Moore, also preceded in death by sister Patricia Day. A member of the Faith Bible Church of North Canton, Jerome served in the U.S. Army as a First Lt.; was employed with the Forest Service, in the ministry from 1972 – 1998, a stock analyst and a member of the Greater Canton Writers Group. Survived by beloved wife of 60 years Paula Darlene (Kimberling) Moore, married 05/12/1962; daughter Jamie Rhea Moore, and son Patrick (Allie) Moore, as well as 4 grandchildren Shane Moore, Corvex Belmont, Colin Moore and Raven Moore.
1958
Adolph Vincent (“Vince”) Cerny, of St. Petersburg, Florida passed away peacefully with his family at his side at the age of 85 on June 24, 2022. Vince was born August 3, 1936, in New York City and later lived in Lynbrook, Long Island where he graduated from Lynbrook High School. Vince attended and graduated from the SUNY College of Environmental Science & Forestry and Syracuse University and throughout his life he loyally supported his alma mater and his beloved fraternity, Alpha Chi Rho. After college, he served in the U.S. Army and National Guard. Vince was an Eagle Scout and supported scouting his entire life. His life’s work involved sales management in Rochester, NY, and Cleveland, OH. After retiring from Kaiser Aluminum, he belonged to the National Speakers Association and traveled the country as a motivational speaker. While living in Melbourne, Florida, he had radio and TV interview programs that were quite popular. Vince was preceded in death by his parents, Adolph, and Constance Keller Cerny, and his daughter, Teri Cerny. He is survived by his wife of 62 years Diane Bulkley Cerny, children Michael (Marilyn-Joy) Cerny, David (Kris) Cerny, Mary Ellen (Dean) Tyler, and sister Connie (Steve) Cordova. He is also survived by three grandchildren, Drew Cerny, Matthew Cerny, and Cate Cerny. In 2013, Vince and Diane settled in St. Petersburg where he attended St. Raphael’s Catholic Church. Throughout his life, Vince enjoyed supporting his children in sports and activities. He was often clad in orange in support of Syracuse University and could be found connecting with friends from high school, college, his fraternity, or from one of the many organizations he supported. Vince’s optimism, humor, love of family and friends are his legacy. Donations can be made in Vince’s name to the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry.
Peter T.V. Gregory, 86, died suddenly at his home on November 21, 2022. He was born on April 8, 1936, in Schenectady, NY and was the son of the late Theodore G. and Katherine (Novakovsky) Voronovsky. Peter was a graduate of Nott Terrace High School and later earned his bachelor’s degree at New York State College of Forestry at Syracuse University. He met his wife at the age of 15 and together they wed on January 28, 1961. Peter worked for NYS Department of Parks and Recreation for over 30 years until retiring as assistant regional director in May of 1995. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed all the great outdoor activities, especially hunting. Following his retirement, he cherished family time at “The Farm,” a special place that he owned in Shushan, Washington County. He was the beloved husband of Betty J. (Root) Gregory; loving father of Andrew Peter (Susan) Gregory, David Lowell (Sylvia) Gregory, Christopher Theodore (Ellen) Gregory, Daniel Franklin (Rebecca) Gregory and Matthew John Gregory; cherished grandfather of Allison, Benjamin, Amanda, Daniel Jr., Dara, Daelyn, Kendall, Jensen, Tanner, and John B.; brother of the late Zoe Smith and Irene Hovian.
1964
Nile Allen Duppstadt, son of the late E. Nile Duppstadt and Jeanne Mary Allen, born February 2, 1942, in Cleveland, Ohio, died May 22, 2022 at age 80. After earning degrees in Landscape Architecture and Forestry from SUNY ESF, and a Master’s of Landscape Architecture and Land Planning from the Harvard University Graduate School of Design, Nile went from building golf courses in Puerto Rico to designing and planning communities around the country while Vice President of Rahenkamp, Sachs, Wells and Associates based in Philadelphia. After moving to Vermont in 1976, he created two home building companies – Allen Building Company and Nile Allen Building Co – constructing over 300 homes in Vermont. His commitment to developing affordable housing won local and national recognition. He also served as President of the National Association of Homebuilders. In retirement, Nile was still known for his tireless work ethic, drawing, horticultural and construction skills, charitable fundraising at Stan’s on Goodland Island, FL and construction of countless unnecessary contraptions, many of an intentionally overly intricate nature. He is survived by his sister Carolyn, sons Chris, Seth and Nile II, granddaughters Cameron, Sloane, Harley, and Ava, and two ex-wives with whom he still kept in touch, Lynn Christian, and Julie Babcock. He was also preceded in death by his sister Susan and longtime girlfriend Kim McGregor.
Carl Golas passed away under the care of Jefferson County Hospice with his family by his side, on July 26, 2022. Carl was born on November 9, 1942, in Utica. The son of the late Carl Walter and the late Stella (Bury) Golas. His first marriage to Maureen (Grafton) Sugrue ended in divorce. He married Cindi J. (Compo) Balash on December 23, 1993, with Justice Ingersoll officiating. He graduated from Utica Free Academy (1962) and Mohawk Valley for two years before transferring to SUNY ESF attaining a Bachelor of Science in Woods Product (1964). Carl started working at Remington Rand in Utica and then began his career at AMF Bowling in Lowville in 1965 as Production Manager and held that position for over 25 years. He then went on to work for Adirondack North County Association (ANCA) as a Wood Products Consultant working with over 600 people in the wood industry business in the North Country and also worked as a Census Enumerator where he enjoyed traveling the surrounding area and collecting data for the census bureau before retiring in 2012. Carl was past President of Lewis County Chamber of Commerce, past House Committee Member of Lowville Elks Lodge #1605 of which he was a lifetime member, coached Lowville Little League for many years, volunteer ambulance driver for Lewis County Search & Rescue, member of Brantingham Golf League, a 50+ years of Matawan Hunting Club, Coast Guard licensed charter captain for 30+ years and a member of the Polish American Club. His hobbies included fishing, hunting, gambling, golfing, watching Syracuse University Basketball games, enjoying time at Pleasant Lake in Brantingham, gardening and in his later years, travelling to Florida for winter fun, cruising the Caribbean, snorkeling, teaching the younger generation about hunting and fishing, spending time with his family, and drinking a Manhattan or two with friends. He is survived by his wife Cindi, his two children, Carl (Amanda Delles) S Golas Jr.; Colleen (Jeffrey) Rast; his two step-children, Steve Balash,; Brian (Jenn) Balash; his two grandchildren, Brett (Rachel) Golas; Lindsey (Cory Schaab) Golas; three step-grandchildren, Ryker Balash, Emerson Balash, McKinley Balash; a great-granddaughter, Georgie Golas; a sister Cynthia Noon; nephews Michael, Thomas, Billy, and Mark Noon, and their families. He is predeceased by parents Stella and Carl Golas, favorite Aunt Josephine Hanus, and Brother-in-law Teddy Noon.
Donald J. Kopf died peacefully in his home September 10, 2022, in the care of his beloved wife, Nancy and daughter, Amanda. He was a Renaissance man, embracing innovative technology (especially professionally at CPI in Sarasota) to home repair. His Catholic faith and America’s diverse natural areas were bedrocks of his life’s joy. Like his father and brother, he was a U.S. Army Veteran. His integrity and kindness were inspiring and relished by his much-loved grandsons and son-in-law, Cary Gillit. He is likely now delighting in viewing a sunset from above a Giant Sequoia.
Donald Edward Wirth, age 85, died September 28, 2022. He was born March 10, 1937, the son of Theodore and Muriel (Farrell) Wirth and grew up in Palmyra, NY. Upon graduation from high school, Don enlisted in the NY National Guard and, with a scholarship in hand, became the first in his family to attend college. Don received his AAS in Horticulture from SUNY at Alfred and after graduation moved to Waynesboro, VA to work for a landscape firm. In his free time Don earned his private pilot’s license and enjoyed many hours flying his plane across the Central Atlantic seaboard for both business and pleasure. In 1958 at age 21, Don moved back to Syracuse, NY to return to school and marry the love of his life, Jean (Bebb) Wirth. He received an honorable discharge from the US Army Reserves in 1963 after eight years of service. A year later Don earned his BS from Syracuse University and BLA from the SUNY College of Forestry. A landscape architect by trade, Don worked for the Chas. T Main Company in Boston for two years and then 26 years for Northeast Utilities in CT. After an early retirement, he continued work as a self-employed landscape architect for several years. Don had an intense love for the outdoors and a deep respect for wildlife and the natural world. Throughout his life he immersed himself in those experiences. While in college, Don spent the summers as a ranger for the US Forest Service in the mountains of Colorado. In later years he helped guide several month-long canoe trips through arctic Alaska. Don had many wonderful lifelong friends and enjoyed spending time with them fishing and hunting throughout New England, Alaska, and Canada. Jean was Don’s heart and soul, and they had numerous grand adventures driving across much of the US as well as taking various cruises and exploring places such as the UK, Belize, Costa Rica, and Hawaii. Together, they also enjoyed various canoe treks along the Missouri River, the Boundary Waters of MN, and the Adirondacks. Don and Jean spoiled many pets, successfully raised their two children, and designed and built a house in Tolland, CT that they enjoyed for 34 years. In 2017 Don and Jean moved to Topsham, ME and continued to spend their summers at their cabin in the Pierce Pond and Flagstaff Lake area. Don enjoyed working on trails, exploring with his ATV, and building with his hands. He had an exceptional gift for storytelling that fascinated all who listened. Even in the twilight of his full life, Don kept his mind incredibly sharp as an avid reader and was always eager to learn. Don is survived by Jean Wirth, his wife of 64 years, as well as his son Brad Wirth, his daughter Brenda Whalen and son-in-law John Whalen. Don will also be deeply missed by his four grandchildren: Tyler Wirth, Kaitlyn Wirth, Sean Whalen, and Bryce Whalen.
Louis Napoleon Wood, III “Lou”, 80, passed away on November 11, 2022, at his residence. Lou was a native of Syracuse, New York and had lived in Haywood County since 1973. He was the son of the late Louis Napoleon Wood, II and Margaret Fleming Wood. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Patricia R. Wood, who died in 2009, an infant daughter, Sarah Wood, and a brother, John Wood. He was a Chemical Engineer at Blue Ridge Paper with over 30 years of service. He is survived by two daughters, Rebecca Polhamus (Chris) of Asheville and Abigail Wood of Asheville; a sister, Sheila Wood of San Francisco, California; and three grandchildren, Nicholas, Katherine, and Julia Polhamus.
1965
Dale W. McNeal Jr., a distinguished professor of biology for more than three decades at University of the Pacific, died on May 8. He was 82. McNeal taught at Pacific from 1969 until his retirement in 2002, when he was honored with the Order of Pacific-the University’s highest honor. He also received Pacific’s Distinguished Faculty Award in 1994. At Pacific, he maintained an active research agenda, contributing results of field work and plant propagation to numerous journals and societies. He authored articles for and was an editorial consultant for the revision of “The Jepson Manual: Higher Plants of California.” McNeal was a member of many organizations, including the California Botanical Society. He was the organization’s president 1987-88. McNeal also was part of a group of American botanists invited to visit the Soviet Union. He journeyed there three times. McNeal attended Kansas University for a year and transferred to Colorado College, where he received a degree in botany. He enrolled in the New York State College of Forestry at Syracuse University, where he received a master’s degree in botany. Upon completion of his military service, he attended Washington State University, where he received his PhD in botany in 1969. McNeal then started work at Pacific as an assistant professor. He is survived by his wife, Arlene, and his brother, Dr. Jerry Reed McNeal.
1967
James R. Calhoun passed away peacefully at home on March 10, 2022. He was survived by his wife – Beth, three stepchildren – Nancy Buono, Robert Kopyc, Kimberly Scott, and four grandchildren. From a previous marriage, he is survived by his two daughters – Heather Rothwell and Shannon Calhoun, five grandchildren and one great-grandchild, as well as his dear cousin, Jill Carey. Mr. Calhoun was born in Soldiers & Sailors Hospital in Penn Yan, NY on June 15, 1944. He was a graduate of Dundee Central School, Class of 1962, the New York State Ranger School, Class of 1964 and the NYS College of Forestry, Class of 1967. He was the son of Helen Clark Calhoun and Charles Howard Calhoun. Upon graduation, he worked for a year as a Forester with the NYS Conservation Department in their Sherburne, NY office and then went on to a 43-year career with the USDA Soil Conservation Service/USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. During those years he worked in Horseheads, NY, Cooperstown, NY, Ithaca, NY, Hudson, NY and ended his career working out of the Albany area office in the Federal Building. His main hobby interests were American History and O-gauge electric trains. He was a member of the Empire and Eastern Train Club of Schenectady. Jim enjoyed stimulating his mind through many classes in Adult Lifelong Learning through Empire State College. The family would like to thank the nurses and staff of the Community Hospice of Saratoga for all of the wonderful care they provided.
Zoltan Gaal, 77, passed away on April 21, 2022, at home from natural causes. He was born July 23,1944 in Komaron, Hungary to parents, Zoltan Gaal, Sr., and Ilona Vrabel Gaal. He and his family fled to the U.S. during the Hungarian Revolution in 1956 and settled in Glens Falls, NY. He obtained a teaching degree and taught high school in Rochester, NY, then moved to Anchorage, Alaska, where he taught for 20+ years. He loved fishing, hunting, gardening, and the outdoors. He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Cathy Gaal, stepdaughters, Ingrid, and Heather Hansen, 5 grandchildren, three brothers–Daniel, Gabriel and Peter Gaal, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Jacob Peter Holz Jr., age 78, died unexpectedly on June 12, 2022. Born in Rockville Center on July 22, 1943, he was the son of Jacob Holz Sr. and Erminia (Minnie) Holz. Jake grew up in Patchogue, Long Island, graduating from Patchogue High School in 1961. He then earned a degree in forestry from Paul Smith’s College, where he grew to love life in the Adirondacks. He went on to obtain his BS degree in land management from SUNY ESF. Soon after, he enlisted in the Army, serving in Germany and Vietnam. He was honorably discharged in 1971 and returned to Saranac Lake. He spent the rest of his life in the North Country, working 35 years for the New York State Office of Real Property services. Jake truly enjoyed fast boats and snowmobiles as well as riding his quarter horse, Colonel, making the best of all seasons here. He was also active in rescuing and saving abandoned and feral cats, the last of which, Shorty, died earlier this year at 24 years old. About 20 years ago he moved from busy Saranac Lake to the quieter life at Lake Clear. Jake is survived by his brothers, Phil, and Ray, and his nieces, Geremy Borys and family, and Genelin Shea and family. In an amazing coincidence, his beloved Mom, Minnie, died at age 101 on the same day. The Holz family would especially like to thank his caregivers, Carol Fletcher and Laurie Woodruff for their excellent care and patience as Jake’s health issues increased over the last year.
William “Bill” Mazur, age 72 of Sparta, NC passed away January 13th, 2022, at Alleghany Health in Sparta, NC. Bill was born January 24th, 1949, in Braddock, PA to the late William Joseph Mazur and Pauline Culina Mazur. Bill began his lifetime career in the construction industry as a Master Carpenter, learning his craft in the Pittsburgh area, near his hometown of Trafford, PA. After spending many years in the private sector of residential and commercial construction, Bill served the last 25 years of his professional career in the public sector as Building Inspector for the cities of Coral Springs, FL and Fairborn, OH. He retired as Chief Building Official for the City of Fairborn in 2009. Bill loved people – he never knew a stranger – He was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone, anywhere, anytime. He had been a longtime volunteer with the Interfaith Hospitality Network in Ohio and a lifelong blood and platelet donor. A member of Grace Community Church in Sparta, NC. He possessed a “boy wonder” quality; he loved to explore, have an adventure, there was a newness to each day! Bill embraced all of God’s splendor and the outdoors. He found wonder in the tiniest seashell. There was no such word as “retired” in his vocabulary. He was always hard-working and self-motivated. Bill was very strong, very virile, and very much a “man’s man.” Bill was a devout Christian who walked his faith daily. Bill’s hobbies included woodworking and crafting; often creating mementos as gifts for family and friends, vintage trucks and cars, antiques, motorcycles, long walks along the Florida beaches and in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Survivors include his wife and soulmate, Diane, and their beloved dog, Kip, a devoted daughter, Ashley Mazur Coe and husband Michael; a grandson, Marcus Asher; a granddaughter, Harper Faith; two sisters: Barbara Courchesne and husband Yves, Sandra Schulz and husband John; and a favorite aunt, Elizabeth Micic; as well as several nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.
1968
Alan Michael Stiehler passed away on April 2, 2022, at age 75. Predeceased by his parents Daniel Sr. & Virginia Stiehler and his sister Patricia Sanders. Survived by his beloved wife of 37 years, Rosanne (Mileo) Stiehler; his son Brian Stiehler; 4 siblings; nieces, nephews, other relatives & dear friends. Alan was a proud US Army Vietnam combat veteran.
1970
Donald Reid Felley peacefully passed away on January 29, 2022, surrounded by his loving wife and children in Lakewood Ranch, Florida. He was an awesome husband and a much-adored father, grandfather, brother, and son. Of his enumerable endearing and enduring traits, Don will be remembered for his elaborate pranks, wry and mostly age-appropriate sense of humor, self-professed athletic prowess, and abiding love for family, friends, and colleagues. Don was born and spent his early years in Erie, PA. He graduated from McDowell High School in 1960 and received a BS in Biology from Grove City College in 1964. After college, Don served as a medic in the Army Reserve at Camp Drum, NY, and worked for Esso Corporation in New Jersey before pursuing his PhD in Entomology (1970) at SUNY ESF. His return to academia put him in the orbit of one Ms. Ellen Ann Reichelt who, after some coaxing, agreed to marry him in Constantia, NY, in 1968. Soon after graduating, Don took a job with the Rohm and Haas Company in Philadelphia, where Ellen gave birth to their first son, James Raymond (1970). Don was transferred to Toronto, Canada, where Ellen would willingly (according to some accounts) give birth to two more children – Christopher Todd (1972) and Allison Jane (1974). By 1975, Ellen convinced Don (or vice-versa) that three kids were enough, and it was time to go international – first to Bangkok, Thailand, and then Jakarta, Indonesia. By the end of the Indonesia tour, in 1979, the family returned to the US for a five-year “home leave” in Walnut Creek, CA. Despite their love of life and friends in California, wanderlust got the better of Don and Ellen, and by 1984, Don was working for the FMC Corporation in Manila, Philippines. As Regional Director, Don traveled often but when home dedicated all of his time to family. Don’s love of sport and physical activity continued in the Philippines where he excelled at squash and tennis, tinkered with golf and duckpin bowling, captained his own small ocean-going vessel, attempted to ski on water, and inhaled enormous amounts of compressed oxygen underwater. If he and the family were not in or near the ocean, they were at the Manila Polo Club competing in one sport or another (but not polo, interestingly). In the mid-80s, amidst political turmoil in the Philippines, the kids were sent to various boarding schools in the US. Seizing the opportunity, Don and Ellen quietly relocated to Brussels, Belgium where Don was FMC’s Director of Europe and North Africa. The kids eventually found them and persuaded them to take another “home leave” to Philadelphia that turned into a “home stay.” Don remained with FMC for another three years. In 2000, he started his own consulting company, dabbled in real estate, and played the stock market with his kids’ inheritance. In 2013, after years of Ellen’s subtle and not-so-subtle prodding, Don agreed to consider a life in warmer climes, fewer seasonal changes, less topographical complexity, and endless golf, beach, and fishing options. They would eventually fall in love with and move to (perhaps not in that order) Don’s final home in River Wilderness Golf and Country Club, Parrish, FL. Don lived a remarkable life and will forever be missed by Ellen, his family, and friends of all stripes and colors.
1973
Joel R. Howard, Ph.D., passed away on November 3, 2022, in Ballston Spa, NY after a four-year battle with cancer. Joel (or “Dr. Howard” or “Dr. Joel” as he was known in professional circles) was born in Granville, NY, and lived outside of Poultney, VT until late 1954 when his parents, Horton K. Howard, DVM and Bernitta E. Howard, moved to the Town of Wilton, NY (outside Saratoga Springs) where his father established a private veterinary practice, and assumed the position as Saratoga Harness, Track Veterinarian. Joel attended school through 3rd grade in Poultney, VT, 4th through 6th grade in the Wilton school system, then to the Saratoga Springs City School District for Junior and Senior High School, graduating in 1964. After high school Joel began the initial stages of his professional career by attending and graduating (1966) from the (then) New York State Ranger School in Wanakena, NY with a Certificate in the Practice of Forestry. Almost immediately after obtaining a position as a field surveyor with O’Brien & Gere in Syracuse, NY, Joel received his draft notice, and spent the next four years in the U.S. Army as an intelligence specialist part of which was with the 4th Infantry Division based in Pleiku, Vietnam from 1967 to 1969. Released from active duty in 1970, Joel committed to furthering his education and narrowing his professional direction in the field of Forestry. Achieving the required transfer credits at SUNY Adirondack (1970-1971), Joel enrolled in the SUNY College of Environmental Science & Forestry (SUNY ESF), Bachelor of Science (BS) study in Resource Management, graduating in 1973. At that juncture it was apparent that Joel had a “knack” for effective teaching, and he set a personal objective of following a circuitous path that would culminate with becoming a college-level professor of Forestry and Forest Ecology. While working on a Master of Science (MS) degree at SUNY ESF, Joel served as a Teaching Assistant (1973), Instructor (1976-1986) at the ESF main campus in Syracuse. Joel concomitantly served as Director of the College’s Summer Program in Field Forestry held at ESF’s Pack Demonstration Forest in Warrensburg, NY. In 1978, Joel was given the additional responsibility of Pack Forest Assistant Manager, which was in turn elevated to Manager in 1979, where he served until a leave of absence was granted for him to depart for Doctoral degree (Ph.D.) study at North Carolina State University (NC State). In 1986, Dr. Howard completed his Ph.D. in Forest Ecology from NC State, and returned to work at SUNY ESF as a full-time, tenured faculty member teaching Forest Ecology and directing the Summer Program in Field Forestry until 1997, when he opted to retire from college teaching to pursue work in the discipline of golf and sports management. Many were surprised by this apparent dramatic change in professional direction, however, as Joel explained, the intrinsic difference between managing forests versus managing grasslands is the size of the plants; the rest is all just “basic plant physiology”. As an entry pathway to turf management, Joel completed a Bachelor of Science Degree at Mississippi State University in 1999, and immediately moved into direct employment in golf course maintenance at the home golf course for the Master’s Tournament, Augusta National Golf Club. He had the distinction of contributing to the daily maintenance of the Augusta National Golf Course, and the successful completion of the Master’s Tournament during the 1999 season. Subsequently, Joel worked as golf course superintendent in southern California before finding a better “fit” for his background and expertise as Senior Natural Resource Manager on a series of golf courses in Florida, seeking high-level “green” certification by following “Gold Standard” design, construction, and Best Management operational practices. In 2007, when collapse of the U.S. Economy was imminent, Joel chose to move back to the Syracuse, NY area which had been bypassed by the worst of the banking and housing industry volatility. Dr. Howard was extended an invitation to assume a one-year teaching position vacated on very short notice by one of the Ranger School faculty (Wanakena, NY). While fulfilling the Ranger School obligations Joel became aware of an opening for Chief Executive Officer with “Applied Biorefinery Sciences”; a biorefinery startup company forming in upstate New York. For the next nine years Dr. Howard held that position, during which he was principal author on two patents granted through the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, and co-author on three scholarly book chapters addressing the chemistry and economic viability of biorefinery technology using world-wide, forest-grown hardwood species. Joel retired from all active professional responsibilities in 2017. Joel was an award-winning teacher and excelled at facilitating organizational functions to help assure that things “worked”. His leisure activities included golf, shooting, and piloting both fixed and rotary winged aircraft.
1976
Edward W. Testani, 69, passed away unexpectedly on August 27, in his home in Santa Clarita, California. He was predeceased by his father, Edward Testani, his Testani uncles, William, Rudy, Larry, Robert, Arthur and his aunt, Emma Testani, as well as his grandparents, Mary and Nick DiPaolo and Mary and Angelo Testani. He is survived by the love of his life, Eileen Parviz, his mother Sylvia Testani, his brother John (Diane) Testani, his aunts Catherine, Loretta and Mary Testani, his uncle Nick DiPaolo. He is also survived by his beloved nephews, Anthony and Matthew Testani. Eddie had close ties to his cousins Ken Testani, Brenda Testani (Dave), Judi Testani (Tom), Laurie Novak, Billy (Ann) Testani, Tom (Chris) Testani and all of their children. Eileen’s children Kianna (Kyle), Sean, and granddaughter Emery, who were all very special to Eddie. Eddie also left many dear friends he made during his life. Eddie got his degree from the school of Forestry at Syracuse University and worked many years for the State of New York as a civil engineer.
1977
Lynn L. Hicks, age 67 years, a resident of Elkins, WV passed on July 4, 2022, due to complications from ALS. He was born May 26, 1955, in Rome, NY. He was married to Jennifer Webb Hicks, also of Elkins. He is preceded in death by his mother, Naomi Pribble Hicks and father Charles L. Hicks. He is survived by three children, Alison Foreman (husband Caleb), Jaime Eilers, (husband Jud), Brooks Keith (wife Kristy), five grandchildren Noah, Piper, Isabella, Kennedy, and Naomi, one sister, Melinda Scofield (husband Gary), one brother Kevin Hicks and girlfriend Billie Jo Hopwood, one nephew, John Tully, one niece, Kathleen Mege and one grandniece, Kiera. Lynn was a graduate of SUNY ESF, Syracuse, NY with a degree in engineering from the School of Forestry. He began his long and very successful career with the USDA Forest Service on the Hiawatha National Forest in Escanaba, MI. From there he continued his career on the Wayne-Hoosier National Forest in Nelsonville, OH then on the Monongahela National Forest (Supervisor’s Office) in Elkins, WV. He retired in 2016 after 36 years at the Supervisor’s Office as a staff officer where he received the US National Managerial Award in Washington DC. Lynn was instrumental in the building of the Seneca Rocks Visitors Center in Seneca Rocks, WV along with hundreds of projects throughout the Forest Service. He loved his job and the people he worked with. He was also a football referee. After retirement he worked, part time, for the Currituck County Visitors Center in NC. Lynn was a Rotarian and received the Paul Harris Fellowship Award while a member of the Asheville, NC club. Lynn also loved his grandchildren and loved spending time with them. He was an amazing grandpa and father. He was kind to all and loved his friends. Lynn was a Methodist by faith and was a previous member of the choir at the First United Methodist Church in Elkins.
Joyce Ann Kelly-Reif was born August 23, 1955, in Jersey City, NJ to James Edmund Kelly and Kathleen Helen Vincent Kelly. Joyce grew up in a household with 5 other sisters and attended Saint John Vianney High School in Holmdel, NJ. Joyce was a lifelong admirer and steward of the environment. She studied Forest Biology at the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry in Syracuse, NY (Class of 1977), where she met her husband, Steven Kelly-Reif. They shared many happy memories together in college, including field biology coursework at the Flathead Lake Biological Station in Montana. After college, Joyce worked as a Bureau of Land Management soil surveyor in Wyoming, and as a soil science and environmental chemistry lab technician. Joyce and Steven moved to Sacramento, California together in 1982. Joyce graduated with a JD from McGeorge School of Law in 1990 and was a member of the State Bar of California through 2020. Joyce and Steven raised two daughters, Kaitlin Kelly-Reif (34) and Chelsea Kelly-Reif (29). As a family they enjoyed many trips to the mountains and coastlines of California, Oregon, and Washington. Her family greatly appreciated her dedication to her children, and fondly remember her warm smile and vivacious sense of humor. Throughout her life, Joyce enjoyed nature and loved her daily walk on the American River Parkway. She often walked with her husband and children, or with the Sacramento Walking Sticks, but most of the time you could find her walking with her goofy labrador retrievers, Cody, and Zack. She also volunteered for the American Red Cross, Breathe California, and the Sacramento Tree Foundation. She was an avid gardener and enjoyed natural landscaping and watching the bees and hummingbirds in her garden. On June 26, 2022, Joyce passed away at home surrounded by family. Joyce is preceded in death by her parents, and her siblings Estelle Marie “Stelly” Kelly-Lopuch and infant, James E. Kelly. She will be deeply missed.
Thomas Frederick Robson, a forest management educator and avid outdoorsman, formerly of Unadilla, died June 6, 2022, in Santee, California, following a decades-long battle with Parkinson’s Disease. Tom moved with his brother, John and parents, Mary, and Augustus, from Gouverneur, to Unadilla in 1965, when his father, Major Augustus “Art” Robson, assumed command of NYS Troop C. Tom became an active member of Boy Scout Troop 1, and earnestly pursued his love for the outdoors with hiking, biking, sailing, canoeing, skiing, and camping in all seasons. He graduated from Unatego High School in 1971, and Paul Smiths College of Forestry, with subsequent graduate studies at SUNY ESF, followed by a master’s degree in adult education/Cooperative Extension from the University of Wisconsin at Madison. He then became employed by the University of California at Berkeley, instructing landowners on timber management strategies in Northern California. During his college years, Tom worked for a landscape management company and frequently spray-applied treatments to foliage. Some speculate that this chemical exposure may have led to the early onset of Parkinson’s Disease and its crippling neurologic and physical effects. Marriages to Barbara Reeves (formerly of Otego) and Sue Moyer ended in divorce. Survivors include his brother, John of St. George, Utah, and a niece and nephew.
1981
James Ralph Purdon III, 66 of Maplewood, died suddenly with his wife by his side on August 26, 2022, from a pulmonary embolism. Jim was born in Aberdeen, Maryland and was raised in Stow, Ohio. He lived in Maplewood for over 25 years. He graduated from the University of Akron with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. He received a master’s degree in Entomology from the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) and Syracuse University. Jim worked towards a PhD at the University of Georgia in Athens. He worked as an IT Systems Analyst for the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond. He was previously employed by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, Merck, Cray Research, the John von Neuman National Supercomputer Center, and ETA Systems. Jim was a wonderful husband, devoted son, loving and true brother and loyal friend. From a young age, Jim was extremely creative, and he spent hours painting, producing graphic art, and creating in other mediums. Jim played the piano and composed his own music. He was always interested in photography and filmmaking. Jim loved the water, enjoyed fishing, and even built a sailboat from scratch. He loved to travel, especially to France and the Outer Banks of North Carolina. He also loved visits to Japan, West Africa and cruises in the Caribbean. Reflecting his passion for science fiction, Jim was a member of a science fiction book club. He was also an avid participant in a drone flying meetup group and a member of Hank’s Wine Club. As a new resident in Maplewood, Jim was an active member of the Newcomer’s Club of Maplewood and South Orange. He served as Board Parliamentarian and co-chaired the Wine Experience and Antiques Antics groups. He looked forward to the many Monday nights he spent at Sports Night with his friends at O’Reilly’s over two decades. He was previously an active member of St. George’s Episcopal Church, where he was an usher. After suffering a brain bleed stroke on June 25, Jim made great strides in regaining movement and strength on his right side as well as in overcoming aphasia and memory loss. He was very excited about his recovery, his improvement in mobility and about the therapy he was receiving. The family would like to thank the staff at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center, the Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation and Chatham Hills Subacute Care Center for the care and the therapy he received. He is survived by wife, Deborah Litton Purdon, mother, Patsy Purdon, sister, Cynthia Nagy and her husband Richard Nagy, brother, Thomas Purdon and his wife Nora Purdon, and John Purdon and his wife Christine Purdon, as well as 10 nieces and nephews, and 4 great-nieces and nephews. James was predeceased by his father, Dr. James R. Purdon, and his brother, David Purdon.
1983
Daniel J. Hassett, Ph.D, passed away on April 27, 2022, at the age of 63 in Cincinnati, OH. Born May 12, 1958, in Rochester, NY. Dan was the son of the late Donald D. Hassett and Pauline A. Hassett. A graduate of McQuaid Jesuit High School, Dan received his BS from Le Moyne College. He remained in Syracuse to attend the State University of New York College of Environmental Science where he received a doctoral degree in microbiology and enzyme biochemistry in 1987. After serving as a postdoctoral fellow at Duke University, he joined the faculty at the University of North Carolina. Dan moved to Cincinnati and joined the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine in 1993 as an assistant professor and was named professor in 2008. Dan’s research work was inspired by a chance meeting while completing his post-doctoral degree. He was profoundly impacted by watching young patients suffer from cystic fibrosis and said, “It’s going to be my life’s goal to find a major treatment where we kill antibiotic-resistant bacteria.” He used that research to tackle chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) infections as well. In March 2018, Dan patented a potential treatment for antibiotic-resistant infections. Ultimately, Dan held several patents, but none would affect as many as the potential treatment for CF and COPD. Not only was Dan an accomplished scientist, but he was also an accomplished musician, singer and fundraiser. Dan was a Renaissance Man. The summers of his youth would be spent with the St. Agnes High School Drama Club and on-stage productions. From his first lessons on piano at the Hochstein School of Music in Rochester, Dan was a natural. Practice sessions and learning the language of sheet music allowed him to hear songs from the radio or albums once or twice, take some notes, practice a little more and then play them on the piano. This led to some band work but ended as most high school bands do. One of his lengthy and important ventures during college and his postdoc years was singing tenor in an acapella group named the Phots. In the 1980’s the Phots traveled to raise funds for various charities and were a staple of entertainment in Central NY. In Cincinnati, Dan became known as Dr. Dan to many locals who frequented karaoke lounges. Dan would sing Sinatra and garner great attention and accolades. While attending conferences and college events, Dan would use his voice and his talents to raise funds for Cystic Fibrosis. An annual event in Milwaukee raised hundreds of thousands per show. During one event, a woman in the audience caught sight of Dan’s ball cap with “Fight CF” printed on it. She offered $5 thousand on the spot, and another mode of fundraising was engaged. Dan is survived by his sister, Marybeth Hassett; brother Timothy Hassett; Anne Wacker-Smit; nieces and nephews, and many cousins. He is missed for his boundless support, can-do attitude, and affectionate jabs.
Christian Michael Nero of Candler NC, age 63, passed away peacefully on February 4, 2022, after a brief illness. Chris is survived by his sweetheart of 28 years, Tara Anderson, and Tara’s children and grandchildren, whom he was proud to share. Predeceased by his father, Richard Nero, Chris is also survived by his mother, Marion Nero, his brother Douglas Nero (and wife), and his sister Michelle Summers (and husband). Chris earned a BS degree from SUNY ESF/Syracuse and had a varied career in science and technology. As a young man, Chris loved boating and the outdoors and achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. In retirement, he especially loved cruise travel and beach vacations. He loved his canine companions, especially Dottie Beagle and 2 previous beagles, and their current pet, Shadow.
1984
Barbara Ringrose Perry, age 60, passed away peacefully on August 11, 2022, at her home. She was born in Rome on March 14, 1962, to the late Honorable John G. Ringrose and Darlene C. Ringrose. She earned her bachelor’s degree from SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, and her nursing degree (RN) from St. Elizabeth’s Hospital School of Nursing in Utica. She obtained credentials in teaching and paralegal studies. She worked as a middle school science teacher in Palmyra, NY, as a paralegal for a Washington D.C. law firm, as a court clerk in Rochester City Court, as an oncology nurse at Duke Medical Center, and most recently was employed by PRA where she supervised new drug trials. On April 2, 2005, she was united in marriage to Stephen Perry; a wonderful union until his passing in 2011. They resided in Charlottesville, VA and enjoyed traveling and playing golf together. Barb was a devoted parent to her beloved dogs, Drago, and Ember, and to her cats. She had many cherished pets over her lifetime. Barb loved spending time at her family cottage in the Thousand Islands. She loved to travel, especially if it involved whale watching. She also enjoyed cooking, gardening, fishing, and spending time with her family. Barb is survived by her stepdaughter, Megan Perry; her siblings, Karen (Jim) DeMartino, Michael (Cindy) Ringrose, Patricia (David) Fox; and her nieces and nephews, Joe, Liz, Ian, Nicole, and Michael.
1995
Steven Morse Schafer, age 63, passed away on August 1, 2022, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Beloved husband of Jodi Hayman Schaefer. Loving father of Madison Jaclyn Schaefer and Maxwell Hayman Schaefer. Loving uncle of Jesse, Theodore (T.J.) and Geoffrey Schaefer, Emily Golembiski, Hannah Eisenband, Olivia Gilmore, Eliana, and Sasha Freidman. Brother of the late Theodore Blake Schaefer. Steve was born in Chicago, IL on September 2, 1958, to Theodore and Judith (Blake) Schaefer. He was a 1976 graduate of Newton North High School. He attended the University of Wisconsin where he received a BA in Journalism. After nearly 15 years as a sports and news writer, Steve went back to school and earned a MS in Natural Resource Management and Policy from the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry. He then spent the last 20 years of his professional career in institutional advancement where he held various positions in front-line development. Steve had an invaluable ability to communicate, connect and provide mentorship to many colleagues. He effortlessly cultivated and maintained lifelong relationships in both his professional and personal life. For Steve, life was all about learning and growing. He started every morning by reading the Boston Globe. Because of his continual curiosity, he knew a lot about a lot. This was evident when every evening Steve shouted out correct Jeopardy answers at the TV. Steve was an avid sports fan, loving all New England teams, the Wisconsin Badgers, and the Emory Eagles. His favorite teams were those of his children, where he coached, watched, and cheered on their efforts. He coached youth soccer and the Newton Bluefish swim team. For more than 12 years, he happily worked with countless swimmers to help them improve and succeed as both athletes and individuals. Steve’s genuine interest in people from all walks of life made him an invaluable member of the community. There is no doubt that Steve’s happy place was at Bow Lake in New Hampshire. For more than 50 years he summered there with family and friends, doing all things that he loved most: spending time outdoors, swimming, fishing, canoeing, reading, listening to sports radio or music, creatively solving problems, imbibing, and most importantly, spending time with family. He didn’t need much, but truly valued the quality time that he got to spend with the people he loved the most. In his final days, Steve mentioned that he just wanted to be a good person and I think we can all agree, that is exactly how we will all remember him.
1997
Zane Gordon Burgess, Jr. 57, of New Creek, WV, died June 21, 2022, at UPMC, Western Maryland, Cumberland, MD from injuries sustained in automobile accident. Born on January 8, 1965, in Washington, DC, he was a son of Zane Gordon Burgess, Sr. and the late Judy Fay (Bache) Webb. He also was preceded in death by his stepmother, Mary Frances Burgess. Mr. Burgess was retired as an Airborne Ranger in the United State Army. He was a member of Hampshire Post # 91, American Legion, Romney, WV and was a former member of the Loyal Order of Moose in Romney. Surviving, in addition to his father, is his fiancée, Jakki Reed; his daughter, Hannah Marie Burgess; a granddaughter, Amarra and his sister, Lesa Reid and husband Jerry.