ESF Mourns the Passing of Emeriti Professors
We regret to inform you of the loss of three notable and well-loved professors. We heard from many of you over the years how each of them had a memorable and lasting impact on you, not only as students, but well into your professional careers. The entire ESF community has been impacted by this loss. If you are interested in making a memorial donation in honor of any of these professors, please contact the ESF College Foundation 315-470-6683 or visit www.esf.edu/donate/.
Emeriti
Professor Emeritus Leonard Alan Smith (WPE), beloved brother, uncle, cousin and dear friend, passed away at his home on June 30, 2021 at the age of 81 after a short, but courageous battle with cancer. He went peacefully and was surrounded by many loved ones. Len earned his Bachelors from the University of Dayton, Masters in Chemical Engineering from Case Western Reserve University and Ph.D. in Wood Products Engineering from SUNY College of Forestry (now Environmental Science and Forestry). Until his retirement in 2006, he was a tenured Associate Professor as well as Chairman of Construction Management and Wood Products Engineering from 1985 to 1994. He was advisor to many grad students who went on to become his associates and close friends. Len graced Holy Cross Church in Dewitt with many years of faithful service, including the Faith in Action Ministry and the Men’s Book Club. Generosity and sincere kindness were the core attributes by which Len lived his life, selflessly offering his time and resources to anyone ever in need of them. Without exception, there is not a family member or friend who hasn’t been helped by him at one time or another. He made it a point to always stay in contact with even the most remote of his friends and family and in doing so, was the unwavering bond holding everyone together. Len’s students lined up outside of his office door to say goodbye and to thank him for his support and mentorship at graduation time. They are now located throughout the world. His lifelong commitment to education continues with the donation of his body to Upstate Medical University to further science. He is survived by his sisters, Kathryn Elicker and Marie Lellis; as well as his many cousins, nieces and nephews.
1943
George Ernest Prokupek (PSE), the son of Ernest and Anna Prokupek, passed away in Springfield Virginia on Saturday December 26, 2020 after a brief illness. He had moved to Virginia in 2018 after living in Norwalk Connecticut for 62 years. George was born in Poughkeepsie New York, attended public schools there, and graduated from Poughkeepsie High School in 1940. He later received a B.S. degree in Pulp and Paper Manufacturing from the College of Forestry at Syracuse University, where he was a member of the R.O.T.C. In March 1942, George enlisted in the Army Aviation Cadet Program – Ground. After Basic Training, he was sent to Yale University and commissioned a Communications Officer in the U.S. Army Air Corps assigned to the Army Airways Communications System. During WWII, he served as a Communications Officer and Squadron Adjutant in North Africa and Italy. Returning to the U.S. after the war with the rank of Captain, George was assigned to the Army Air Corps Reserve, which in 1947 became the U.S. Air Force Reserve. He was again called to Active Duty during the Korean War and became a Radar Officer and Squadron Adjutant for the North American Defense Command’s Early Warning System in the United States. George retired from the U.S. Air Force after 21 years of Active and Reserve service with the rank of Major. He was what is called a “civilian soldier”. George was employed by Continental Forest Industries, a subsidiary of Continental Group for 38 years in middle management positions. At the time of his retirement, he was the Manager of Secondary Fibers for the 41 plants that comprised the Continental Forest Industries Brown System. After leaving Continental, George worked for the Deluxe Check Printing plant in Norwalk Connecticut in the Packaging and Servicing Department for five years on a part-time basis. During his civilian employment, George was a member of the Technical Association of Pulp and Paper Industries (TAPPI), the Waste Paper Utilization Council, the Boxboard Research and Development Organization, and the Syracuse Pulp and Paper Foundation. He also belonged to the Military Officers of America (MOAA), the World War II Museum (Charter Member), American Legion Post 12 of Norwalk, Connecticut and American Legion Post 123 of Springfield, Virginia, the Norwalk Senior Center, the Saggahew Lodge AF&AM of Haverhill Massachusetts, St. Peter’s Lutheran Church of Norwalk Connecticut, and the Civil War Trust (American Battlefields Trust). George was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Ernestine Prokupek, and his son-in-law Michael Liechti. Surviving him is his wife of 73 years, Eleanor, his daughters Barbara Liechti and Lark Prokupek (Nancy Leist); his son Jim Prokupek (Rhonda); and grandsons George Liechti (Meera Murgai), Steven Prokupek, Vernon Liechti (Arilana Zlotnick) and David Prokupek (Carly Chambrello-Prokupek). There will be no calling hours. Burial will be held at Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors at a later date.
1949
Henry O. Thron Jr. (FRM), 93 passed away on Wednesday evening December 30th at the Schenectady Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation while recovering from a fractured hip. Born in Schenectady, Henry was the son of the late Henry O. and Anna (Wurth) Thron Sr. While an only child, he was like a brother to his many cousins in a large family, who still maintain a unique bond generations later. A graduate of Mont Pleasant High School, Henry received his Bachelor’s degree in forestry from Syracuse University. A former tree surgeon for Capital Forestry, Henry built his own business and continued to do tree work and landscaping throughout his entire career and well into his 80s. He also worked for a time with Metropolitan Life Insurance Company and over 25 years with Wright Malta Corp. as a munition’s expert. A life member and officer of the Schenectady Turnverein, he also enjoyed singing in their Menenchoir. He remained involved in the ESF Alumni Association. Henry was a devout father and neighbor who would, and did, help anyone in need. Henry’s motto was “Just do the right thing”. Henry was predeceased by his first wife, Thelma (Place). He is survived by his children, Kathleen Center (Roy) of Las Vegas, NV, Nancy Sniffen (late Roger) of Esperance, Laura Huggett (Tim) of Schenectady and James H.C. Thron of Scotia, his grandchildren, Eric Center (Kele), Jessica Sniffen, Christina Zullo, Nicole Fatato (Andrew) and Ashley Thron and great grandchildren, Karsen Center, Antonio, Dominic and Isabella Zullo, Adriana and Anthony Fatato, as well as his second wife Edith(Schulte).
1951
Jack J. Karnig (FRM) of Wallkill, NY, a retired Forest Manager for Harvard Black Rock Forest Consortium, Cornwall, NY, and a longtime resident of the area, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday December 9, 2020, in Wallkill. He was 97. The son of the late Janik Kalpakin and Eliza Topalian, he was born May 14, 1923 in Alexandria, Egypt. He served as a Medic in the Army during WWII. He was awarded the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star. He was a member of New Hurley Reformed Church, He was a Life Time Member of the Black Rock Fish & Game Club, and a longtime member of the Society of American Foresters. After his retirement he worked as a Forestry Consultant. Survivors include his wife, Patricia at home; daughter, Michelle Messiano of West Columbia, SC; son, Gary Karnig at home; grandchildren, Alyssa and Christian; niece, Arlene Jordan; nephews, Kenneth and Eddie Karnig; great niece, Sherri Jordan. He was predeceased by his son, Richard and his brother, John.
Calvin Reynolds (LA), 95, passed peacefully on December 13, 2020. He was born on July 16,1925 in Culver City, California. His parents were Jerome and Cora Reynolds. Cal graduated from Irondequoit High School, class of 1943. Following graduation, he proudly served in the US Navy during WWII on the Island of Tinian in the South Pacific. Upon return to the states in 1946, he attended Cornell for a year, and then pursued a BS degree in landscape architecture at the school of Environmental Science and Forestry at Syracuse University, graduating in 1951. He joined the Rochester Parks Department in 1952. On June 6, 1953, Cal married Beverly Pink, the love of his life, whom he met through Sunday Night Club at Lake Avenue Baptist Church. In 1954, Cal became Rochester’s chief forester. During this time, he tackled the Dutch Elm’s disease that swept the country and hit the city as well. He was part of the replanting of trees that are now lining the streets today. The tree planting campaign was one of his fondest memories as he would often revel at the grown trees in his later life when driving through the city. Conservation of nature and wildlife was his life. This dedication advanced him to the role of Monroe County Parks Planner in 1965, and ultimately the Monroe County Parks Director in 1977. He retired in 1985. Throughout his years overseeing the various parks and golf courses that Rochester is known for, he always loved and nurtured the natural spaces where wildflowers could grow, as well as the highly cherished Highland Park known for the local Lilac Festival. He was known to plant new species here and there in wild areas to increase the variety of plant material. An immense advocate for sustainability and care of the environment, Cal was ahead of his time with a zero-waste, reduce, reuse, and recycle mindset. Through the years, Cal was a leader and member in various organizations including the First Baptist Churches of Fairport Rochester and Seneca Waterways Council, BSA – Explorers (Sea Scouts), Rochester Theater Organ Society, and Genesee Valley Orchid Society. His interests paralleled his love of being outdoors which included gardening, golfing, skiing, fishing, camping, international travel, and music, especially playing the organ. On many Saturdays, Cal could be heard playing the Wurlitzer organ at the Auditorium Theater, something that members were able to do for fun. He also had an immense interest in history and geography. Family trips always included visiting the National Parks, US state parks, golf courses, and ski resorts. During his retirement, he traveled extensively throughout Europe, especially taking in all of the outdoor attractions and meeting up with plant enthusiasts that he was penpals with throughout the years. His love of orchids was also something he cherished up until this past summer. His favorite, the yellow lady slipper, adorned his garden, which he doted over. Cal was a gentle and insightful soul. His family and friendships were at the center of his thoughts. He enjoyed corresponding with letters and talking on the phone, always checking in on others. Recent musings throughout this pandemic included the advice, “choose to be un-busy”, words all of us can live by. Cal recently endured the loss of his wife, Beverly on March 31, 2020. Cal was predeceased by his siblings, Warren, Theodore, Malcolm, Marilyn, and Norman. He is survived by son Cal Jr (Robin), son Greg, daughter, Anne (Gary), grandsons Nick (Haley), Erik (Liz), CJ, sister Lois, and many nieces and nephews.
1952
Peter F. Guest (WPE)of Wilmot, New Hampshire, who served in both the Merchant Marines and US Marine Corps before joining and eventually leading his family’s woodworking business, died January 14, 2021 of complications related to Covid-19. He was 94. A polio survivor, Peter lived a life shaped by commitment, energy, and tenacity in his business combined with boundless enthusiasm for people, new experiences, and a lifelong love of laughter and music. He had a talent for being in the right place at the right time. At the age of 18 he was serving as the Chief Radio Officer aboard the Winthrop Victory, one of only two merchant ships present in Tokyo Harbor when the Japanese formally surrendered on September 2, 1945 aboard the USS Missouri. He joined the Merchant Marines after graduating from high school at 17 when merchant ships were used to supply the US Navy and other branches of the military during World War II. After the surrender, he went on to ports throughout the Americas and Europe before leaving the Merchant Marines in 1946. Upon his release from the Merchant Marines, Peter entered the New York State College of Forestry at Syracuse University where he graduated in 1951 and was promptly drafted. He reported to boot camp at Camp Lejeune and, afterwards, was sent to San Diego where his experience as a radio officer earned him an assignment as an electronics instructor in San Francisco. He served there until he left the Marines in 1953 with the rank of corporal. Born and raised in Mamaroneck, NY, where his father and uncles owned Nuroco, an architectural woodworking business in Norwalk, Connecticut, Peter graduated from Mamaroneck High School, spending summers at Camp Pasquaney and the family cottage in Fairlee, Vermont. He joined the family business after serving in the Marines and worked in every capacity including laborer, truck driver, lumber salesman, salesman, and supervisor of installations throughout Manhattan and the region to such customers as Johnson & Johnson. As president, he moved the company from Connecticut to Whitefield, New Hampshire and oversaw the shift of the business to furniture making under a new name, Brown Street Furniture. A licensed pilot, he often flew the company’s Piper Cherokee to call on customers outside the region. He remained owner and CEO until his semi-retirement in 1989 and full retirement in 1998. Unable to remain retired, he founded a specialty furniture company, Cherry Pond Designs in Jefferson, NH which he and his son Peter F. Guest, Jr. operated until recently. Over the 55 years he lived in New Hampshire, first in Jefferson and then in New London, Peter became part of a large network of sailors and music lovers that brought folks from both towns together. As a board member of The White Mountain Festival for the Arts in the late Seventies, he enlisted Murray Washburn of Peter Christian’s Tavern to provide food for guests and musicians such as Taj Mahal, James Cotton, Paul Winter Consort, and Jazz greats Benny Goodman and Bucky Pizzarelli who performed on stage on the site of the old Waumbek Hotel in Jefferson. He bartended and acted as host for such visitors as former New Hampshire Governor Judd Gregg and President George H.W. Bush who was campaigning nearby. Peter recruited crew members for Pipe Dream, his beloved Pierson 35 sailboat, from his family and from among the many New Londoners who had helped out at the Festival, often sailing up and down the East Coast, Intracoastal Waterway, and throughout the British Virgin Islands. It was on one of these voyages that he met his wife, Jen Ellis and, not long afterwards, relocated to Wilmot. In addition to Jen, he is survived by five children from a previous marriage: Elizabeth G. Marro, Peter F. Guest, Jr. Mary Eileen G. King, John A. Guest, and Katherine Margaret Guest as well as six grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and six nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father Edwin H. Guest, his mother Katherine Campbell Guest, and his sister Anne Guest Ameden.
Warren Hartman (FRM) passed away on March 16th with his wife and “adopted” grandson Shawn at his bedside. He was born on March 30, 1931 in Brooklyn, NY to Carl and Ethel Hartman and was raised in Yonkers, NY. He had a B.S. degree in Forest Management and served with the USFS for 34 years in various positions in Colorado, Alaska & Washington. He served in the Army 1954-1956. In 1976 he married the love of his life, Janice. Warren was very active in several organizations: National Ski Patrol, Lions Club, the Coast Guard Auxiliary, West Bay Yacht Club, West Bay Literary & Oratorical Society, South Sound Cruising Club,GoldCrest HOA Board & King of The Road RV Club. He remained as Information Officer on the Olympic Incident Command team even after he retired! He also obtained a Pilot’s License in 1972. He and Janice continued to travel nationally and internationally even though he received chemo therapy at least 3 times a month during the last 10 years. He fought hard against all of the diseases attacking his body with grace, dignity, strength, preservice and wry humor. Loving helping others and being a tinkerer his whole life, he had to change his interest to gardening as his health declined. He is survived by his wife Janice; by his older sister Audrey, of Westerville, OH; his younger sister Joan, of Staten Island; his nephew Bill (Murielle) of Salt Lake City, UT and their daughter Autumn (Josh) Brielle, Freya; and nephew Scott (Audrey) of Orlando, Florida and their children Kelsey, Sean, Glen; and by his grandson Shawn Burdett (Shandi) of Olympia, and their children Seaira, Sariah, Shanel.
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1954
Frank Burggraf (LA), age 87, of Fayetteville, died Friday, October 9th, 2020. Frank was a retired Landscape Architect and educator. His father, Frank Burggraf, his mother, Johanna Verbaan and his oldest son, Frank Burggraf lll have all preceded him in death. He married Jane Rannenberg 1955 and divorced in 1997. He later married Marty Goff in1998. He is survived by his wife, Marty and two living children, Helen Burggraf Roberts and John Christian Burggraf and two step-children, Kelley Wilks and Sonya Stout. Frank was an Assistant professor of Landscape Architecture at U of Ga, associate professor of Landscape Architecture and director of regional planning at Penn State, Chief planning analyst State Public Service Commission, Albany, N. Y., Director of Landscape Architecture 1984-87 at U of Arkansas before he retired in 1997, he also Contributed articles to professional journals. Frank served his country as a Lt Col USAFR 1954-1998. Frank loved sailing and handball.
Richard I. Doolittle (WPE), 88, passed away on Sunday, May 23, 2021, at Froedtert Menomonee Falls Hospital in Menomonee Falls, Wis. He was born on Feb. 4, 1933, in Lynbrook, N.Y., to Irving and Helen (Clampett) Doolittle. Dick grew up in Lynbrook. After graduating from Rockaway High School, he attended Syracuse University, graduating in 1954. Before pursuing his master’s, Dick served in the U.S. Army for two years. He ultimately earned his master’s in human resource development from New York University in 1964. Dick’s professional career started with the American Institute of Banking in New York where he became Associate Secretary, supervising 100 faculty, student counseling (5,000 enrollments), course development, marketing and administration. After nine years with AIB, he went to the American Banking Association, rising to Associate Director/Chief Operating Officer of the Stonier Graduate School of Banking at Rutgers, with emphasis on financial and information systems, communications and marketing. Nine years later, Dick moved on to the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin -Madison and Herbert V Prochnow Foundation, where he served as President and CEO for 21 years, overseeing all functions of this advanced bank management education provider and its supporting foundation. He retired in 1995. Dick married Lorraine Francois in 1958. They were happily married for 49 years. Some of their favorite times were spent at the “treehouse” condo in Wisconsin Dells or on the high seas during one of their many cruises. Dick was a member of Madison Rotary Club , Dane County Public Affairs Council and other professional organizations. He also served as the Pine Cove Condo Association President for several years. Dick enjoyed traveling, playing piano, woodworking and gambling. Dick was preceded in death by his wife, Lorraine; and his brother, Arthur. Dick is survived by his daughters, Donna Doolittle Brenyo (Douglas) of Mount Pleasant, S.C., and Caren Miller of Germantown, Wis.; his sister, Barbara Itter of Chicago, Ill.; his grandchildren, Aimee, Matthew, Steven, Courtney and Kevin; his great-grandchildren, Jayden and Lucas; his nieces and nephews; and other relatives.
1955
George Richard Cataldo (Forest Technology), 90, formerly of Pine Grove Road and husband of Theresa, passed away on Tuesday, January 5, 2021, at Folts Rehabilitation Center and Nursing Facility, Herkimer. Prior to that George and Theresa had resided at Folts Brook Assisted Living, also in Herkimer, since 2018. George Richard Cataldo was born at home on Franklin Street in Lyons Falls, NY to Angeline Bougeois and John Cataldo on June 19,1930. He went to Lyons Falls Elementary and High Schools and graduated in 1948. He had a long and varied life and remarked many times in recent years that he had lived a very good life, met lots of people, and he learned from everyone he met. George is survived by his wife of nearly 45 years, Theresa Zimmer Evans Cataldo, her 6 children and their families, as well as two brothers, Robert of Lyons Falls and Edward of Lowville, many nieces and nephews and their families. Deceased are his parents, and four of his siblings: Francis Cataldo, Marie C. Meda, Eileen Cataldo, John Charles “Charlie” Cataldo. At 15 he began his working life at the Hugh and Ethel Markham farm in Turin, and later worked for Jack West as a construction laborer before joining the US Air Force. He served as a Radio Operator in England for about eighteen months. Returning to the states upon his discharge, he returned to construction, and then attended Wanakena Ranger School, a field camp of Syracuse University at the time. He graduated in 1955 and relocated to the Pacific Northwest, laying out logging roads. He loved the mountains, but Lewis County was calling him home, where he and brother Ed logged some forests; later George worked for Richard Shue, bought a logging truck and spent some time driving truck wood products. George worked for the Conservation Dept. in Canton NY and did research on land titles in Albany NY. George did a lot of surveying in these early years in the Bearsville, NY part of the state, and held various other jobs. This seems to be where George’s lifelong interest in the Adirondacks, Canals, and Railroads was solidified. George was a member of the Lowville American Legion, St. John’s Catholic Church in Lyons Falls, and more recently, Sts. Anthony & Joseph’s parish in Herkimer NY. An avid collector of maps, books, postcards and other historic information, George was a wealth of knowledge and had many true and dear friends locally and around the country. George began buying land along the Independence River and started working for local land surveyors LaFave, White, and McGivern in the Boonville office. He was recommended to work for the Lewis County Court House as a map technician in Dec. 1975; one month later he married Theresa on January 31, 1976. After the youngest of her children was in college, the two of them hired Stewart Albertson to build their dream home where they lived for about 35 years. Their land was placed into the Tug Hill Tomorrow Land Trust.
1958
Edward (Ed) D. Morrison (Forest Chemistry), went home to be with Jesus on Sunday, May 23, 2021. He was born in Rochester, New York on October 25, 1931 to Donald and Frances Morrison. He received a B.S. Degree in Chemistry from Roberts Wesleyan College and M.S. Degree from Syracuse University and the State University of New York. He was an U.S. Army veteran. He was a chemist for the Eastman Kodak Co. and Director of their Plastics Technology Laboratory until retiring in 1986. Ed was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Susan Bellor. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Nancy Morrison: his son David Morrison; grandsons Daniel (Julieann) Bellor and Michael (Lindsey) Bellor; and five great grandchildren: Ethan, Leah, Carter, Emily and Kyle. Ed loved the out-of-doors – camping, mountain climbing, canoeing trips and sailing. He enjoyed summers camping with his family at many locations in the U.S. and Canada and at their summer place at Seneca Lake, N.Y. He served as a scoutmaster, Sunday school teacher and other church positions. After retiring, he became more involved in missions at home and overseas including work in Papua New Guinea. In 1997 Ed and his wife, Nancy, moved to Homosassa, Florida. He served the Lord in several churches particularly in the area of missions. Together with church teams, he took numerous trips to Eastern Europe (Romania and Moldova) to provide food, clothing, homes and wells to needy families, widows and street children and to reach them for Jesus. He was a member of Grace Bible Church, Homosassa.
1959
Robert Carroll Murphy (FRM), 81, of Fernandina Beach, Florida passed away due to natural causes on December 30, 2020. Robert graduated with honors from Syracuse University and went on to become a career Army Officer, earning numerous distinctions as a result of his service. He was a recipient of the Distinguished Service Cross and inducted into the Army Ranger Hall of Fame. In his spare time, he loved restoring and flying World War 2 aircraft, among others. He was a fun-loving person who was demanding but made those around him feel special. He is survived by his wife, Chong; son, Michael (Joy) and grandson, Brom of Clovis, NM; brother, Richard (Norma) of Palm Beach, FL and sister, Paula Trudell of Liverpool, NY.
1960
Bertel Skabo Brun, 87, a resident of Lee County, FL for the past five years, formerly of Fairhope, AL, passed away Saturday, October 3, 2020 in Cape Coral, FL. He was born October 24, 1932 in Brooklyn, NY to immigrant Norwegians, Edwin and Oddny Brun, now deceased. Bertel Skabo Brun (Bert) was a kind, intelligent, gentle, and empathetic man who loved maps and traveling the world. He brought his family to his favorite country, New Zealand, where he was the Chief Fisheries Management Officer for several years. He was a middle school science teacher, rubber plantation inspector in Sumatra, Indonesia, Biologist for both the Corps of Engineers in Seattle, WA and the Fish and Wildlife Service in Annapolis, MD. He also worked for the Naval Oceanographic Department where he spent time in Japan and other countries. He loved to read and write, and when he retired he fulfilled his dream of becoming an Author, finishing 12 books and 3 plays, even producing live performances. He also lectured on various cruise ships, sharing his knowledge of the ocean and topography while enjoying his love of traveling. He spent time exploring throughout Europe with his then wife, Mary Ann, mother of his children. He loved to dance, hike, play cribbage and watch classic movies. He was an advocate for the under-privileged, mentoring prison inmates, sponsoring children, and volunteering overseas with his church group. His love for animals was well- known, and he contributed to many rescue organizations. He especially loved to say hello to his beloved burrowing owls that lived along his daily walks in the neighborhood. He was an encouraging, humble and wise patriarch to his family, who adore him and will never forget his love and care. He will be missed tremendously but will be forever in the hearts of those that loved and knew him. He is survived by three loving children, Jenny Cline of Spotsylvania, VA, Kirsten Medlock (Mark) of Volga, WV, and Lesley Brun (Runnels) of Cape Coral; former wife, Mary Ann Floden; three nephews and two nieces, Ed Aites (Lorna), Kristina Bailey (Dave), Nina Lavoy (Ken), Paul Greening (Sue), and John Greening; best friend, Hermann Gusinski; 17 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; as well as a large and loving extended family. Bertel was preceded in death by a daughter, Laura Brun; two sisters, Ruth Aites and Helen Greening; as well as a nephew, Larry Aites.
William A. Morse (Forest Technology), “Bill” of Kerhonkson, NY, passed away in the comfort of his home on Thursday, December 24, 2020. He was 83 years old. Bill was born on October 5, 1937 in Middletown, NY; he was the son of the late Richard and Gladys (Henderson) Morse. Bill served his country in the United States Navy and was honorably discharged in 1957. He attended New York State Ranger School in Wanakena, NY and shortly after began his career with the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation. His first job was as the caretaker of the Beaverkill Camp Ground. This is where he met the love of his life, Anne and developed his love for camping. Bill was a Lieutenant Forest Ranger with the NYS DEC until his retirement in1992. In addition to camping, Bill enjoyed hunting and fishing. In his younger years he was a boy scout leader and little league coach. Bill was a member of the Wawarsing Masonic Lodge #582 as well as the Wawarsing Chapter Order of the Eastern Star and was the Past Grand Patron of the Grand Chapter Order of the Eastern Star of the state of New York. Bill was a life member of the Rondout Valley Rod and Gun Club, an Associate member of the Kerhonkson Fire Company and was a former member of the Accord Fire Department where he served as Fire Police. Bill was predeceased by his wife Anne J. Morse in 2019. He is survived by his sons, Michael and his friend Ruth, Robert and his wife Carole and Doug and his wife Anne; grandchildren, Ian, Eric, Meghan and Brady; his brother, Richard Morse and his wife Kay and his sister, Barbara Mc Cloud and her husband Stan.
Jean E. Vandebogart (Forest Technology), 83, of Reservoir Rd., passed away on Tuesday, December 29, 2020 at Crouse Hospital, Syracuse. He was born on November 26, 1937, in Norwich, NY, a son of John and Mabel Barber Vandebogart. He was a graduate of Sherburne High School and attended the NYS Ranger School, Wanakena, NY. Jean was a veteran of the U.S. Navy, having served from 1955-58. He had worked for the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation as a Principal Forestry Technician at Camps Georgetown and Pharsalia until retiring. On September 2, 1961, Jean married Donna Roe in Smyrna, NY and they shared a loving union of over 59 years. Jean’s favorite hobbies were woodworking and playing his guitar. Surviving are his wife, Donna; a daughter and son-in-law, Barbara and Bruce Thompson, of Smyrna; two sons and daughters-in-law, Jeremy and Kim Vandebogart, of Lynchburg, VA and Glen and Nancy Vandebogart, of Fairport, NY; his grandchildren, Elizabeth Vandebogart, of Cazenovia, Jordan (Amanda) Vandebogart and Shaun Vandebogart (Epiphany Soward), of Lynchburg, VA, Emily (Carlos) Fernandez, of Richmond, VA, Lidia Vandebogart and Vincent Vandebogart, of Fairport; great-grandchildren, Jeremiah, Jadon, Ezekiel and Ephraim Vandebogart, all of Lynchburg, Caleb and Dominic Joy, of Cazenovia, NY and Jocie Fernandez, of Richmond, VA; a sister-in-law, Joan Vandebogart, of Tulsa, OK; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a brother, Ramon Vandebogart.
1961
Lester L. Straw (FRM) passed away peacefully on January 10, 2020 with those he loved by his side. He was born in Elmira, N.Y. on April 18, 1936. After graduating from Southside H.S. he joined the Army in 1954, and was stationed in Germany with the 9th Div Recon Co. where he received the good conduct medal, and was honorably discharged in 1956. Upon returning home, Les attended Syracuse University where he received a degree in Forestry and Environmental studies. In 1961 he relocated his family to Northern California to begin his career in Forestry. He returned to the east coast in the late 60’s and retired in 2005 with 25 years of service as the Superintendent of Parks for the Montgomery County Department of Parks & Planning Commission. Les was a quiet, thoughtful, and caring man who cherished his friendships, and always held his family tight. He enjoyed wine tasting, cooking, attending the orchestra, symphony, and listening to Big Band Music. His favorite place to spend time was our cottage on Keuka Lake in Upstate N.Y. where we spent summers as a family. Les leaves behind his dear sister Phyllis Straw, children, Debra Springfield, David Straw, and Daniel Straw. He also leaves behind three grandchildren, one great grandchild and many wonderful, caring friends. He is now on his final journey, leaving this earth to join beloved family and friends. As dad always said, “it’s not goodbye?It’s a see you later”.
1962
Jan Allan Keen (LA), 80, of County Rt. 59, Dexter, NY passed away November 29, 2020 at the Samaritan Medical Center. Born on March 9, 1940 in St. Mary’s Pennsylvania, son of Allan Watson and Mary Isabel Hess Keen, he graduated from Waterloo High School in Waterloo, NY. He then received his Bachelor’s Degree in Landscaping architecture in the school of Forestry at Syracuse University. He went on to work for NYS Highway Department retiring after 40 plus years of service. Jan’s true passion was for model trains. He was a founder and officer of the Watertown Area Model Railroad Club and co-owned and operated the North Country Hobby Shop in Carbone’s Plaza for several years. Jan was responsible for starting many in his beloved hobby. He also enjoyed his home on Lake Ontario. Among his survivors are his brother and sister in law, Thomas E. and Dorothy F. Keen, Winston Salem, NC; a sister, Margery Susan Seveins, Boynton Beach, FL; two nephews and their wives, James (Laurie) Keen and Timothy (Ruth) Keen, all of Apex, NC; 3 great nephews and a great niece.
1969
James G. Coe, Sr. (FEG), 72, of Bethlehem Township, NJ passed away on Saturday February 27, 2021 at his home in Claudio, Brazil. He was born on March 1, 1948 in Plainfield and raised in Cranford. Jim was a graduate of Roselle Catholic High School, SUNY College of Forestry, and Syracuse University. He also served in the US Marine Corps Reserves. Jim went on to a distinguished career as a civil engineer at Killam Associates, serving many of New Jersey’s municipalities and regional authorities as well as private clients. He worked at the firm (now known as Mott MacDonald) for 43 years before retiring as Executive Vice President in 2014. Jim was also a member of the New Jersey chapter of the Society of American Military Engineers. Jim was married to the late Gail M. (Bierherr) Coe for 34 years until her death in 2012. They raised their family in Bethlehem Township, where he volunteered with the Bethlehem Township Booster Club and was a longtime parishioner of St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Hampton. He is survived by their children James G. Coe, Jr. and his wife Erica of Atlanta, GA, Kevin A. Coe and his fianc?e Anaya Mortsea of Red Hill, PA, and Megan M. Coe, also of Atlanta, GA, as well as his grandsons Theo, Myles, and Bodhi Coe. In 2014, Jim married Gilma M. Alves Coe. Together they enjoyed retirement and “followed the summer,” splitting time between their homes in New Jersey and Claudio. He is survived by Gilma and his stepchildren Anna Carolina DeSousa of Hershey, PA, and Robert DeSousa of Claudio, and his step-granddaughter Savannah Gonzalez. He was predeceased by his parents Edward and Margaret (Murphy) Coe and a sister, Margaret M. Coe. He is survived by his siblings, Edward Coe of Salvador, Brazil, Richard Coe of Washington Crossing, PA, Kathleen Coe of Newtonville, MA and Harry Coe of Englishtown, NJ, and their spouses as well as many nieces and nephews.
Andrew L Seyfried (FEG), 74, passed away very unexpectedly on December 14, 2020, at his home in Freeville. Andy, or “Sonny,” as he was known to close friends and family, was born in 1946 in Cortland, NY. He graduated from Cortland High School (’64), from Broome Tech (’67) and from ESF/Syracuse University (’69). He dedicated 33 years to the NYSDOT as a Civil Engineer. In 2010, he kicked off his second career-as Co-Owner of The Second Knob Gifts & Antiques, along with his daughter, Shana. His love of buying antiques and collectibles spanned over fifty years and during that time, his knowledge of both became so extensive that he was often consulted for informal appraisals and to run estate sales. Andy leaves behind his loving wife, Joan Van Vranken, Freeville, NY, two devoted children, Matthew (Lisa) Seyfried, Cortland, NY and Shana (Dan) Karn, Dryden, NY; five beautiful grandchildren, Miranda (Michael) Van Donsel, Melanie Karn, Andrew, Kaylee and Leah Seyfried, one great grandchild, Cooper Van Donsel. He is survived by four loving siblings, Shirley Shackelton, Dryden, NY, Vera (James) Graves, Ontario, NY, Carol Taylor, Bonaparte, IA , Fred (Helen) Seyfried, Summerville, SC, a brother-in-law, Edward Chamberlain, Brownville, NY, and many nieces and nephews. Andy was predeceased by his parents, Andreas and Vera (Stone) Seyfried, a sister, Patricia Seyfried Chamberlain and two brothers in-law, Horace Shackelton and Larry Taylor. Family was Andy’s first love and priority followed closely by friendship. He “never met a stranger” and would offer help whenever and wherever needed. He always gave far more than he took. He loved to talk and was an expert at giving advice. His hearty laugh, sense of humor and sharp wit were hallmarks of Andy’s personality. In a room full of people, he was often the center of attention. Andy was loved beyond measure and will be missed by so many.
1971
On Friday morning, January 29, 2021, Pamela Florence Yorks (EFB) passed away quietly from Alzheimer’s at the age of 71. Pam was born in Syracuse, New York to Lois (Andes) and Kenneth Yorks. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Forestry from the College of Forestry at Syracuse University, where she was the class Valedictorian for 1971. She continued her education at the University of California at Berkeley, earning her Ph.D. in Botany, with dissertation research into protein patterns in native plant nectars. After teaching Biology at the University of Puget Sound, she relocated to Seattle, where she earned her Master of Librarianship at the University of Washington and soon joined the University of Washington library system. In October 1985 she married Dr. Stephen D. West, a member of the University of Washington faculty. After working at the Engineering Library, she was appointed Head Librarian at the Physics/Astronomy Library, a position she held until retirement in 2013. Pam was accomplished on piccolo and flute, performing in the UC Berkeley Symphony Orchestra, and played piano and guitar. She enjoyed season tickets at Seattle’s Symphony, Opera, and Pacific Northwest Ballet, where her daughter studied dance for several years. Pam loved the natural world and engaged in outdoor pursuits, especially botanizing locally and around the globe. She was active in the Washington Native Plant Society and served as its Secretary. Her travels covered North America and Europe extensively, as well as parts of Central and South America, the Galápagos Islands, Australia, Tasmania, and Africa. Pam was preceded in death by her mother and father. She is survived by her husband Stephen and daughter Tracey West, sister Melissa Yorks, brother-in-law E. Joseph Bangiolo, niece Dr. Lois Bangiolo, brother Dr. Terence Yorks, and sister-in-law Dr. Kathleen Capels.
1974
Richard “Dick” E. Andrus, PhD (EFB), passed away on April 5, 2020, at the age of 78. A passionate environmentalist, he spent his life advocating for plants and animals of the world. Through action and example, he inspired his family, friends, and students to expand their thinking and create a sustainable world. Dick earned his PhD in botany from the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry. In 1973, when Binghamton University placed an ad for a professor to establish an Environmental Studies program, he was the perfect fit for this then unknown field. During his career, Dick was also a major contributor to the field of bryology. Dick traveled all over the globe collecting previously undescribed species of sphagnum moss. He built a massive collection of sphagnum specimens that he ultimately donated to Duke University. Leading the Envi program he inspired hundreds, if not thousands, of students to apply their talents to environmental work. “Don Ricardo” took groups of students to Costa Rica to learn about tropical ecology, pointing out the pressures of climate change and the faults in our international food system. When teaching locally, classes took van rides to local sustainable farms for EcoAg, or Jam Pond for Wetlands. He brought countless classes of students to his home to learn about sustainable backyard gardening through hands-on work. Dick led by example, turning over the compost, showing students how to shovel “the right way”, baking his own bread, peeling homegrown potatoes, and brewing his own beer. For many, this was the first time making and learning about healthy food. He enjoyed nothing better than being in nature. Dick, and his teaching partner and long-time friend Julian Shepherd, helped to establish the 180-acre Binghamton University Nature Preserve and strongly encouraged the creation of the group that became the Friends of the Nature Preserve. They worked hard for many years to endow a caretaker position so that the preserve would remain welcoming to humans and wildlife alike in perpetuity. Dick was also instrumental in the gifting of Nuthatch Hollow to Binghamton University from local businessman/bird/nature enthusiast Robert Schumann. Dick had a strong commitment to enhancing the environment within the City of Binghamton through work with the Shade Tree Commission and the VINES urban gardening initiative. At the regional level, he was present at the founding meeting of the Northeast Organic Farmers’ Association (NOFA) in 1983. For the last few years he was active on the administrative board of the NOFA-NY organic farm certification program. Convinced that protection of the environment is impossible and incomplete without social justice, Dick and his wife Jane were involved in the Binghamton-El Charcon Sister Cities Project. In order to support the local economy he helped found Binghamton’s EAT Food Co-op and was a frequent patron of Binghamton Farmers’ Market, where almost all the vendors knew him. He appreciated a good home-brew and loved to patronize local breweries. He was a huge fan of folk music, serving as a board member and routine concert-goer of Six on the Square in Oxford, NY. Dick was also a sports enthusiast; enjoying running, cross country skiing, cycling, and playing in various leagues himself. Attending sporting events with his family was one of his favorite activities. While many will remember Dick as a vocal advocate for the environment he was also quite the family man. No Dad or Grandpa was better qualified to lead an adventure walk! He loved spending time with his family, sharing stories, arguing about politics, and telling jokes in front of his wood-burning stove. Dick is predeceased by his mother and father, Barbara and Leonard Andrus, and by his wife Jane Suk Stuart-Andrus. He leaves behind his beloved children: son Erik (wife Erica and sons Julien and Robin), son Holt (wife Miriam, and daughter Natalia), daughter Alexis (husband Jon Paczkowski), stepdaughter Janine Stuart (Michael, daughter Earay) and Loris Cabrera (Katrina, daughter Carmen). He also leaves behind his sister Peg Williams, brother Steve Andrus, sister-in-law Mary Lou, and many other members of the Andrus family.
Meade C. Hutchins (FRM), 67, passed away Wednesday evening, January 6, 2021 at his home with his loving family following his battle with Cancer. Born on April 12, 1953 in Glens Falls, he was the son of Frances Austin Hutchins and the late Sherald B. Hutchins. He was a graduate of Indian Lake Central School and SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry at Syracuse University. Meade married Kathleen A Michaels in Indian Lake on October 19, 1974. He retired in 2017 after 29 years as Indian Lake Tax Assessor and Building Code Enforcement Officer; as well as four years as Deputy Town Supervisor. Before that, Meade worked for Finch Pruyn as a Forester. Meade was very active in the community and served in numerous volunteer roles including: Library Board Trustee, President of the Public Library Board, Southern Adirondack Library System (SALS) Board Member, Indian Lake Theater, Volunteer Fireman, and the Community Development Corporation. Because of his roles as Tax Assessor and Deputy Supervisor, he was active with the Grievance board, Planning Board and Zoning Committees. This led to his recognition by “The Five Towns” for his service and leadership to benefit Adirondack Communities in 2017. Once retired, his love of Genealogy led to numerous hours of family and community research history. He also enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren and close friends. His lifelong love of reading meant that there was always a book, newspaper or magazine within arm’s reach. Survivors include his loving wife Kathy of 46 years; his mother Frances of Indian Lake; two daughters: Heather Wilson of Smithfield, NC and Mary Lupo of North Creek; four beloved grandchildren: Mackenzie Wilson, Alexander Wilson, Charity Lupo, and Austin Lupo; siblings: Sherry (Jim) Williams of Indian Lake, Gilbert Hutchins of New York City, and Jeri (Kyle) Williams of North Syracuse; several nieces, nephews and cousins; and his faithful companion “Alvin” whom he could be seen walking twice daily by neighbors up until recent months.
1977
Scott T. Saroff (EFB), 65, died Wednesday, November 11th at Menorah Park. Born in Boston on May 17, 1955 to Leonard and Irma Saroff; he came to Syracuse to attend SUNY ESF in 1973, then continued his education at SU where he earned a degree in geology, a masters degree in geology, and also PhD level course study in Geology at SU as well. Scott had been an adjunct professor of contaminated hydrogeology and contaminated waste management at SUNY ESF. While in graduate school he also was the head paramedic for Eastern Ambulance. He served on the boards of Temple Concord, and Menorah Park. During his professional career Scott first worked for the NYS attorney generals office in Albany where he investigated Onondaga Lake and Love Canal. He then worked for the EPA, at The Roy F. Weston Company. He was a former partner at the environmental consulting firm Blasland, Bouck &Lee of Syracuse. Subsequently Scott was a senior consultant at several other national environmental consulting companies. Most recently he was a senior project manager at FPM Remediations Incorporated of Oneida, NY. Scott will forever be remembered for his love of science and the environment, and making the world a better and cleaner place to live. His family includes his wife Deborah, children Jeremiah, Bridget, Monica, and Katrina; his brother David Saroff; uncle Lester Saroff; and a large and loving extended family.
1978
Whitney “Whit” Frederick Pettersen (PSE): 4th Degree Knight, The Big Kahuna and our Pops, was called home by God for a greater purpose on May 3, 2021. Born June 29, 1952, Whit passed just short of 69 years of life. He had a life that was filled with love, challenges, and transformations. Whit grew up in Shelton, CT with his two younger brothers Eric and Fred. As a young boy and man, Whit was determined to grab life by the cajones and he did so by testing life and the patience of his mother Edna Kopp Pettersen, whom he precedes in death. After giving Edna grey hair, Whit went on to attend and graduate from Thames Valley State Tech in Norwich CT in 1975 and Syracuse University in 1978. After graduation, Whit married the absolute love of his life, Elaine Alberti Pettersen. Together, they had three remarkable children, Jennifer his Buttercup, who preceded her father in death, Whitney his Wildflower and namesake of Mechanicsburg, PA, and Brandin his Bull and most cherished son, along with his wife Brittany of Lakeland, FL. The spirit of Whit will forever be encapsulated by the memories that were made during annual family outings. He loved creating the perfect campsite and took pride in his ability to build fires…it’s all about the perfect teepee! Some of the families most precious memories were when he taught his children how to fish and swim to the bottom of the lake during these camping trips. Trips to Disney World and the infamous Cruise of ’94 were memories forever etched in the family’s hearts. Whit worked at National Starch and Chemical Corporation as a Technical Salesman of environmentally safe, industrial chemicals, for over 20 years. While at National Starch Whit was awarded Salesman of the year multiple years in a row, “living proof that lighting can strike twice.” Having a relationship with God was an unwavering passion of Whit’s which led him to convert to Catholicism in 1992. Whit was steadfast in his faith of God and leaned on it to help guide him through troubled times in life. He was drawn by his faith to join the Knights of Columbus and has the distinct honor of being the First Grand Knight of Council 13100 at St. Katharine Drexel in Mechanicsburg, PA as well as being a Fourth Degree Knight. Whit struggled with alcoholism on and off during his adult life. Many times, he called to God for help and many times his call was answered. Even though he struggled, Whit shared the tools of his faith and the 12 steps with those who found themselves facing the same challenges by starting the “You Are Not Alone” group. Whit also leaves behind a legacy in his grandchildren, Kadin his first-born grandson, Emma his Lily, Sarah his Sunflower, Cohen his fishing buddy, and baby Jennifer Rose who is due to join the family in October. They will miss their Pops with sad hearts but will remember how fiercely he loved, how passionately he lived, his tales of Leo the Lion and Minnie the Mouse before bed, and the best hugs that smelled of Old Spice. It is a great comfort to know that he was greeted by his daughter and his father when God called him home.
Carolyn Mae Stein (PSE), 64, passed away Sunday, May 2 at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Memphis, TN after a brave battle with gastric cancer. She was born October 16, 1956, in Springfield, MA, the daughter of Leonard and Vera (Weiner) Stein. Carolyn graduated from J-D HS, Class of 1974; and then earned her Bachelor of Science in Paper Science Engineering degree from SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry., Class of 1978. She started her professional life, at International Paper, Hudson River Mill, Corinth, NY in 1978. Carolyn continued her long and successful career with International Paper, with moves to Androscoggin, ME; Chicago, IL; Ukiah, CA and finally moving to the Memphis headquarters in 2002 as a Project Manager, and retiring in 2009. Carolyn was pre-deceased by her father, Leonard. She is survived by her mother, Vera, her brothers; Kenneth Stein, (Eileen Burns) of Sandy Hook, CT; and Jeffery Stein of Phoenix, AZ; nephews, Patrick Stein and Nathan Stein (Brittany Walden). Carolyn’s greatest love was her friends, and she counted many. Her generosity of spirit attracted those who understood the compassion of a great friend, the intellect of a searcher and the soul of an adventurer.
1982
Michael Angelo Virga (FRM), age 60, passed away on May 25, 2021, due to complications from lung cancer. Seventeen years earlier Michael courageously fought his first battle with that disease, determined to survive for the sake of his four children. During the long remission that ensued, Michael lived his life to the fullest, a legacy that his children, family, and friends will continue to honor. Born and raised in New York, Michael was the oldest of four children born to Mario and Nancy Virga. He had a lifelong love of being outdoors, and after graduating from Ward Melville High School he studied forestry at the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry. Michael savored his early career managing forest lands in upstate New York. In later years, his career shifted toward policy-related work in Washington, D.C. At heart, Michael was an avid traveler and adventurer. He reveled in meticulously researching and planning family vacations centered on his passions for camping, canoeing, hiking, snorkeling, the New York Yankees-and all things Disney. A skilled cook, he also delighted in entertaining family and friends with bountiful feasts that usually featured the Italian cuisine of his heritage. The only thing that pleased Michael more than serving a meal to a satisfied crowd was winning at a game. From bocci ball to Settlers of Catan to poker, Michael enjoyed competitive contests of all sorts, especially when wagering was involved. Above all, Michael was a proud and devoted father. He cheered for his daughters and sons during soccer and football games and swim meets. He was a talented coach of many baseball teams, skilled at developing players’ confidence in themselves and instilling a strong sense of the importance of good sportsmanship. Michael sought to foster in his children a shared love for cooking, camping, traveling, Yankee baseball, and so much more. Michael is survived by his wife, Megan, and four children: daughters Katelyn and Alexandra (born to Laura Virga) and sons Ian and Asa (born to Megan). Michael also is survived by his father, Mario; siblings Lori, Renee, and Matthew; 10 nieces and nephews; and multiple aunts, uncles, and cousins.
1988
Beloved husband, father, and coach, Michael “Mike” John Taber (LA), age 57, of Park Ridge, NJ passed away unexpectedly in his sleep on February 28, 2021. Mike was the owner of Landscape Systems, Inc., which he established before graduating ESF/Syracuse University with a BS in Landscape Architecture in 1988. Mike was always quick to point out that he learned the most at SUNY Cobleskill, where he first earned an Associate degree in Landscape Development in 1984 and was the baseball team’s starting catcher and outfielder. Mike’s passion for his work was only surpassed by his love for his family. Mike was the adored husband of Heidi for twenty-nine years (and her high school crush) and the most devoted father and number one fan of son, Troy, and daughter, Julia. Mike was Troy and Julia’s fiercest supporter and took great joy in sharing coaching them and their teammates on the same fields on which he played. A lifelong resident of Park Ridge, his pride for his hometown and its athletic teams ran deeply; hopefully, his players still laugh at Coach Taber’s stories that began with, “When I was your age…” Whether it was Rec football, NEBAS baseball, softball, or American Legion, his love of the game was contagious. Serving as assistant coach to the PRHS Varsity Baseball team during Troy’s varsity years were the proverbial icing on the cake. He was beyond proud of the players he coached and young adults he molded. In our hearts, he will always be #24. Mike is predeceased by his parents, George Robert and June Rose (Senft) Taber, and brother Brian. Mike was the cherished brother of Robert and Lauren, dear son-in-law of Elvira Steinhauff, and beloved brother-in-law of Claudia, Eve, and their families. He was also a treasured uncle, cousin and friend to many as he was always thinking of others before himself.
1993
Wade P. Shatara (Forest Technology), 53 of Endicott, passed away Friday, February 5, 2021 unexpectedly. He is survived by his parents Ted and Mary, brother and sisters Matthew, Eileen and Christine Shatara, aunts and uncle Nancy Shatara and Donna and John Jones. Wade graduated from SUNY ESF with a degree in Environmental Science.
1999
David Richard Rarick (FEG), passed away Tuesday, January 19 at his home while under the care of his family. He was 44 years old when he lost his valiant and courageous fight against cancer. Born in Watertown, NY July 29, 1976, David was the son of Michael and June (Lester) Rarick. He graduated from General Brown High School in 1994. David earned an Associate’s Degree from Jefferson Community College, then a Bachelor of Science Degree in Forest Engineering from SUNY ESF. He later earned his Professional Engineer License. David worked as a Professional Engineer 2 for the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. David married Rachel Briggs on June 4, 2005 at the Sackets Harbor Battlefield. Together they had two beautiful children and he enjoyed camping, hunting, spending time with family and friends, family movie nights with his wife and children, and making great memories together. David was a very loving and devoted family man. He loved his entire extended family and his friends and co-workers. David is survived by his wife, Rachel, daughter Evelyn, son Michael, his parents, Michael and June (Lester) Rarick, Watertown; sister and brother-in-law Amy and Mike Loudner, nieces Audrey and Vivian, Cicero, NY. He is also survived by his cousin, Dawn (David) Harrienger, Adams Center, NY, with whom he had a special bond, and his father and mother-in-law, Bill and Laurie Briggs of Henderson NY, his brother and sister-in-law Zachary Briggs and Shannon Dowty of Chicago Il, His sister and brother-in-law Nicole (Briggs) and Skyler Barney, Adams, NY, his sister-in-law Shannon Briggs of Troy, NY, and so many other family members and close friends who loved and cherished him. David was predeceased by his infant brother, Michael, his maternal grandparents, Fred and Edith (White) Lester and paternal grandparents, Loren Myron and M.R. Lillian (Gauthier) Rarick.
2007
Joel M. Coon (EFB), 35, of Cato passed away October 31, 2020 at Upstate University Hospital Syracuse, following a lengthy illness. Joel was born in Syracuse on January 3, 1985, the beloved son of Kenneth Jr. and Janice Warner Coon. Following graduation from Cato High School, Joel continued his education, attending and graduating Manga Cum Laude from SUNY ESF with a BA in Environmental Biology and minor in Pre-Veterinary science. Joel is survived by his parents, Kenneth and Janice Coon; brother, Kenneth (Kimberly) Coon III; his adored nieces, Emelia, Felicity and Kennedy Coon; paternal grandfather, Kenneth Coon Sr. He was predeceased by his maternal grandparents, Jack and Frances Warner and paternal grandmother, Nancy Coon. Friends would describe Joel as a quiet, gentle and beautiful soul. His heart was so full of love and light, that we felt so blessed to be in his presence, and to call him our “angel friend” on earth. We will hold his memory dearly in our hearts and, above all, be so grateful for his friendship and love.
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