Obituaries & Guestbook

David Benjamin Aureden

10/17/2020

David Benjamin Aureden died peacefully at home surrounded by his family on October 17, 2020, after an almost 2 year battle with brain cancer. David was born in Washington DC and spent the majority of his childhood in Philadelphia, graduating from Lower Merion High School in 1985 and the University of Pennsylvania in 1989. David excelled as a crew athlete in high school and college, and was a proud member of the 1989 University of Pennsylvania Championship Crew.

David lived around the world, working as an advertising executive in Germany, Portugal, Russia and the United Kingdom. David met his wife Deirdre on a blind date in Moscow in 1998. They returned to the US in 2000 to raise their family.

David moved with his wife and two daughters to Skaneateles, New York, in 2009, where he worked for Chase Design for 10 years. A fan of winter and cold water, David served on the board of the Polar Bear Plunge in Skaneateles. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Skaneateles, serving on the Mission Committee and the Communications & Technology Committee.

A beloved son, father, brother, husband and friend, David lived life fully, with compassion, gratitude and optimism. Even after his cancer diagnosis, he worked hard to make the most of every day, living by his crew’s motto of “one stroke at a time.” He embraced new adventures and experiences, and generously shared his love of photography, cooking and food, running, traveling and reading. Inspired to become an amateur photographer by his time abroad, David bought his first cameras at outdoor markets in Moscow. He used film to capture wonderful images of his family, friends and nature.

David is survived by his wife Deirdre Aureden; his two daughters Alexandra and Sophia; his mother Diane Aureden; his three sisters Elizabeth Aureden, Julia Schad and Anne Betz; and his two brothers Kevin and Tim Aureden.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in memory of David to the SAVES Ambulance Service in Skaneateles, NY, the David Aureden Memorial Fund for Mission at First Presbyterian Church of Skaneateles, NY, or Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, MA.

A private funeral service will be held on Saturday, October 24 at 10:30am EST at the First Presbyterian Church of Skaneateles. Due to COVID this service will be streamed on Facebook live at https://www.facebook.com/skanpresby

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James Regan

10/16/2020

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James Regan, 1934 – 2020.
James spent most of his life living with his parents, James A. Regan and Mary Dwyer Regan in Scranton. After his parents died, he moved to his sister’s (Jean Regan Paparella) home in New Jersey and Florida.
His later years were spent as his younger sister’s (Kay Regan Delaney) home in Skaneateles, NY. He moved to Loretto Nursing Facility when ill and passed away there on October 16, 2020.
James loved gardening and watching old classic movies. He was predeceased by his parents, and sister Jean Regan Paparella. He is survived by his sister, Kay Regan Delaney, brother-in-law John Delaney and Rudy Paparella, several nieces and nephews, and cousins. He was loved by all.
Services are private.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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James F. Marquardt

10/16/2020

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James F. Marquardt of Skaneateles, New York passed away with his family at his side on October 16, 2020 at the age of 92. Jim was born in Syracuse on March 9, 1928 to Frederick L. Marquardt and Helen Metzger Marquardt. The middle of three children, Jim grew up happily on Whitwell Drive, spending countless hours playing baseball in Schiller Park and tennis at the Sedgwick Tennis Club. Jim attended Salem Hyde School, Central High and the College of Engineering at Syracuse University. In the 1950’s Jim served in the U.S. Army, stationed primarily at Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas. Jim spent his entire 44-year career at General Electric as a design electrical engineer, working on projects ranging from the radar systems implemented to enable the Berlin Airlift, to sonar systems designed for our nation’s submarine fleet.
Jim had a deep love for the Skaneateles community where he raised his family, as well as the Grand Harbor community in Vero Beach, Florida where he spent his truly golden years. The game of golf was the pleasure of Jim’s life, his fondest memories were those spent on the links with his family and friends. And, it was through the game of golf that he met the love of his life, Nancy Fulmer Marquardt, at Drumlins Country Club in 1962. Jim was a man of great Christian faith and was happiest when surrounded by his family, especially his grandchildren of whom he was so proud, and his beautiful bride whom he cherished so dearly.
Jim is survived by his wife, Nancy Marquardt; his daughter Melissa Marquardt of Boston; his son Bill (Bridget) Marquardt of Skaneateles; along with his beloved grandchildren, Lilly, Jack and Grace Marquardt; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother Robert Marquardt of Syracuse, New York and his sister Marian Birge of Barneveld, New York.
A private funeral Mass will be held St. Mary’s of the Lake Church in Skaneateles followed by a private burial in Lakeview Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to either the Skaneateles Community Center Endowment Fund c/o CNY Community Foundation, 431 East Fayette Street, Suite 100, Syracuse, New York 13202 or to The Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, in memory of James Marquardt, made payable to MIT, citing Fund #2982900 and mailed to Memorial Gifts Office,
600 Memorial Drive, W98-500, Cambridge, MA 02139.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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Patricia A. Gascon

10/15/2020

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Patricia A. Gascon (84) of Marcellus, NY, passed away in the loving arms of her family on October 15, 2020. Patricia was born on March 17, 1936 to Louis and Lillian Erbach in Rochester, New York. She was married to Stephen J. Gascon, Sr. on October 1, 1955. Stephen predeceased her on October 13, 2012. Patricia was a long-time resident of Marcellus where she was active in many local charities. She served as a member and past president of the Friends of the Marcellus Free Library for many years and was a past member of the Marcellus Rotary Club. Patricia is survived by her children Stephen J. Gascon, Jr. (Eleanor), Yvonne M. Gascon, and James J. Gascon (Debra), seven grandchildren, and six great grandchildren.

Calling hours will be at the Robert D. Gray Funeral Home, 49 Jordan St., Skaneateles, on Sunday, October 18th from 1 to 4pm. Masks are required and limited entry in the building at one time. There will also be calling hours at St. Alphonsus Church, Route 20, Auburn, at 4pm on Monday, October 19th followed by mass at 5pm. Mask are required and social distancing. Father Ron Gaesser, Patricia’s first cousin will be presiding over the mass. Burial will be private at St. Francis Cemetery in Marcellus.
Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to El Portal de Belen Foundation, 10 Tiger Lily Lane, Ithaca, New York, 14850.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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Donna O. Eysman

10/12/2020

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Donna O. Eysman 1942-2020. Donna was born on October 31, 1942, in New York City. She was married to Harvey A. Eysman in 1969, and celebrated their fifty-first anniversary a few weeks before her death on October 12, 2020.
She lived her whole life in Great Neck on Long Island in New York until her husband retired from his law practice and then moved to Central New York in the Town of Skaneateles, where she resided until her death. She received much joy from all the wildlife that inhabited their fields, including deer, rabbits, coyotes, turkeys, herons, ducks, geese, and the occasional eagle. She never allowed her husband to fish in their pond because, as she claimed, she could never eat her “grand children”.
Donna was a talented artist, working in oils and water-color, and was well known for her love of all animals, especially her dogs. She was a licensed real estate broker for over thirty years and made many friends of her clients and the people she worked with.
She was predeceased by her parents, Walter J. (Salty) and Betty O’Hara. Surviving her are her husband, their daughter, Regan Tara Franklin (Brian), her grandson, Sammi, and her brother, Dean O’Hara (Bonny).
She was well known for her sweetness, kindly nature, and sense of humor. Although she was a workaholic, she always had time for her many friends and especially her family.
Like her father, who was a professor at the U.S. Merchant Marines Academy, and had formerly served for many years with the Merchant Marines, she requested that upon her death, she be cremated and have her ashes scattered on the “waters”.
A memorial service will be held at a later date when the people who loved her will be able to attend without the obstacles necessitated by the Covid-19 pandemic.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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Linda A. Sheppard

10/11/2020

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Linda A. Sheppard died peacefully after a battle with cancer on Sunday, October 11th at the Bishop Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Syracuse, NY. Linda was born 27 September 1952 to the late Charles and Hilda Sheppard of Skaneateles NY. In her youth, she raced Microds with the Skaneateles Microds Club. Linda graduated from Skaneateles High School in 1970 where she enjoyed playing in the school band. She attended college at SUNY Oswego. Linda spent most of her adult life in Skaneateles where she enjoyed swimming in the lake and picnics at Sandy Beach. She later moved to Auburn, NY and resided at Northbrook Heights Senior Community where she enjoyed attending the state fair each year and trips to the local parks. Linda is survived by a sister Maureen Kinsella (Bill) of Auburn, NY, a brother Richard (Deborah) of Wilton, NH and several nieces and nephews.
There will be no calling hours. A graveside service at Lake View Cemetery, Skaneateles will be held at the convenience of family. Donations may be made to the charity of your choice. To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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Marguerite Mary Staples

10/9/2020

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After a long and fulfilling life, Marguerite Mary Staples passed away in Auburn, NY at the Finger Lakes Center for Living on October 9th. She was born on May 6, 1934 to George and Marian Runions. She married her high school sweetheart and the love of her life, Ronald Staples, on December 27, 1952. She was a military wife, Skaneateles School District Secretary, and a truant officer for the Osceola School District in FL. She loved to cook, read Danielle Steel novels and enjoyed a great Whiskey Sour. She is preceded in death by her parents, George and Marian (Parker) Runions. Survivors include her husband of 67 years, Ronald Staples; children, Scott (Jan) Staples, Selinda (Mike) Altomare and four grandchildren.
Calling hour will be held on Saturday, October 17th from 9 to 10am at Robert D. Gray Funeral Home, Skaneateles with a private service to follow, masks are required. Burial in Lake View Cemetery, Skaneateles. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her honor to SAVES at 77 Fennell St., Skaneateles, NY 13152.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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Marilyn K. Mellor

10/5/2020

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Marilyn K. Mellor died peacefully after a long illness on Monday, October 5th at the Matthew House in Auburn. Marilyn was born in November 1938 to the late Thomas and Elizabeth Keady in Liverpool, NY where she grew up and graduated from Liverpool High School. After high school she attended and graduated from Syracuse University where she served as an adjunct instructor in their elementary education program.
Marilyn later taught elementary education in the West Genesee School District for several years and was always remembered as a very kind, patient teacher loved by her students.
She married Charles Mellor in 1967 and together they had four children Mark, Brian, Erin and Cheryl. She enjoyed cooking for many years with her mother for her family and was an avid bridge player as well as winning many prizes sponsored by the local newspaper for her drawings which she did with her sons. She later started daycare programs in Liverpool and Skaneateles where she enjoyed and taught the development of early childhood education programs for many children.
She was predeceased by her son, Brian, and is survived by her husband, son Mark (Kim), and daughters Erin (Don) and Cheryl (Matt). She also lovingly leaves behind four grandchildren Nate, Brynn, Margaret and Owen.
There will be no calling hours and a private service will be held at St. Mary’s Church, Skaneateles. Marilyn will be buried in St. Mary’s Cemetery. Donations can be made to Hospice of Central New York of the Finger Lakes, 990 Seventh North Street, Liverpool, NY 13088 or to the Matthew House Inc. 43 Metcalf Drive, Auburn, NY 13021.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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James Murray Donnelly

10/3/2020

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    James Murray Donnelly passed away on October 3, 2020, peacefully surrounded by family and friends including his devoted son Terrence; his stalwart granddaughter Kathryn; and his 3 1/2-year-old great granddaughter Kinsley, the joy of his life.
     He was born in Syracuse, New York, on January 14, 1933, the oldest son of Mary (Murray) and James C. Donnelly. He attended St. Anthony’s, Cherry Road and Solvay High Schools.
    At a young age he became an avid sportsman. He was most happy being in nature and hunting for pheasant, quail and partridge with his mentor and best friend, his Uncle Patrick J. Murray, and their German Pointer dog “lightning”. Together they enjoyed fishing for trout in the beautiful streams of Central New York, but their fondest place was in the Adirondacks at Ausable Chasm, the Oswegatcie River and Cranberry Lake. They would spend hours together creating fishing flies and collecting lures.
    His uncle, Patrick Murray went on to become a tank commander under General Patton in the 20th Armored tank division. He and his division liberated Dachau Concentration Camp. He was decorated with two Purple Hearts, the Silver Star, France’s Croix De Guerre, Victory Medal and the European Middle Eastern Campaign Medal.
     Jim, emulating his Uncle, chose a military career. He joined the Air Force and was with the Strategic Air Command (SAC). He flew in B52 bombers and completed 103 missions over Vietnam and Korea. He was also decorated for his military service with many medals, including the Airman Medal of Distinction for meritorious duty. He was a true patriot who served his country honorably and with great love.
    His travels were worldwide and during his career he was stationed at many airbases in the states of Texas, California and New York. His last assignment was Loring Air Force base in Limestone, Maine.
    Upon his retirement he and his wife Anita decided to stay in Maine because of the beauty of the state. It was reminiscent of the Adirondacks he so loved. They had a home in Presque Isle and built a camp on Lake Baskahegan. The family enjoyed many years there fishing and hunting, not just for deer, but also for moose and bear.
    Jim delighted in his Irish roots and recently helped to complete a book on ancestral Donnelly history, dating back to 1786 in Curry, Strokestown, Ireland.
    Jim was a man of great strength, courage and determination. He loved people. His presence, his smile and his laughter filled the room. He was generous to a fault, kind beyond measure and compassionate to those in need. The door was always open and his light was always on. Jim was well known for his delicious Maine Lobster dinners. A true treasure, he was dearly loved and he will be greatly missed by all his many friends, family and especially his children, nieces and nephews.
    He was predeceased by his wife, Anita (Ferland) Donnelly in 2001 and his brother Charles Kerry Donnelly in 2003.
    He is survived by his three children: Arthur (Christine) of Mapleton, Oregon; Patricia Drake and Terrence (Margaret) Donnelly of Presque Isle, Maine. His grandchildren: Justin (Kaitie Ann) Donnelly, Amy (Jeremy) Guerrette, Billie Jo (Ross) Allen, Kathryn Drake, Cameron Donnelly and Lucas Donnelly. Great grandchildren: Ryan, Payton, Haven and Kinsley. His brother-in-law, William (Diane) Ferland. His sister Joan Marcoccia Coates of Skaneateles, New York and sister-in-law Patrica A. Donnelly of Syracuse, New York. His Dear Friends; Robin and Dean Doody, Carla Page. Nieces and Nephews: Elizabeth (Stephen) Ramsey, George (Christina) Marcocccia, Meg (Steven) Oates, Amy E. Donnelly and James W. (Jennifer) Donnelly.
     He will be laid to rest with full Military Honors alongside his wife, Anita, in Presque Isle, Maine.
     The Donnelly family wishes to acknowledge and express their deepest gratitude to the doctors, nurses and staff at the A.R. Gould Hospital, ICU unit in Presque Isle and the Northeastern Maine Center Hospital, ICU unit in Bangor for their care and kindness not only to Jim but to his loving family.
     Donations in Jim’s honor may be made to the disabled American veterans at https://secure.dav.org
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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Jay Churchill Schwenk

10/3/2020

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Jay Churchill Schwenk passed away Saturday October 3, 2020 at the age of 80. Jay was born on April 2, 1940 in Utica NY to Donald and Dorothy (Hoffman) Schwenk. He spent the majority of his life living between Skaneateles and Borodino NY.
Jay served as a Naval Radio Operator on the carrier U.S.S. Princeton and was honorably discharged in November 1959. He served 29 1/2 years as a NYS Trooper predominantly at Troop D, Lafayette. After retiring from the Troopers Jay joined the U.S Marshal’s Service working as a CSO at the Onondaga County Federal Building, Syracuse, NY.
Jay was a classic car enthusiast; he also enjoyed classical music and spent a lot of time watching classic movies.
Jay was predeceased by his loving wife Barbara of over 50 years. Surviving to carry on Jay's memory are his two sons Gregg Richard (Susan) and Gary Jay, his sister Annie H. Schwenk, three step-grandchildren, Austin, Tyler and Hillary Pratt (Callahan) and 2 great grandchildren, Zoey Callahan and Charlie Rose.
The family plans to have a private ceremony to celebrate Jay's life at a date still to be determined.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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Welcome

David Benjamin Aureden

James Regan

James F. Marquardt

Patricia A. Gascon

Donna O. Eysman

Linda A. Sheppard

Marguerite Mary Staples

Marilyn K. Mellor

James Murray Donnelly

Jay Churchill Schwenk

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