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Duane Hunter Abrams

10/30/2016

10 Comments

 
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Duane Hunter Abrams, 67, of Marcellus, passed away at his home Sunday morning October 30, 2016 after a long illness.  Born May 19, 1949, Duane was the eldest son of Clifford and Elinor Abrams of Skaneateles and lived most of his life in that town.
Duane was predeceased by his wife Renee who passed away in 2007.
Survived by a sister, Lynne of Boulder Colorado, and brother, Dale of Skaneateles, New York, son Devan of New York City, daughter Morgan of Manteca, California, niece Cassidy Sainsbury of Colorado and two grandchildren, Ashleigh and Jace of Manteca, California.
In his later years, he shared his life and home with Eileen Price, his close friend and companion.
Duane graduated from Skaneateles High School in 1967 and was a pitcher for the baseball team and an accomplished golfer.  He went to college at Ashland University in Ohio during the turbulent years of the late 1960’s and early 1970’s; he was involved heavily in the politics of the time. He graduated with a Political Science Degree with a Minor in Sociology 1971. It was at that time in his life when he developed his love for the music of the era, attended Woodstock and solidified his views on the changes that came with that generation.
Duane loved his adopted town of Marcellus and the people he became good friends with. Especially at Daniel’s Creekside restaurant. But his heart always belonged to Skaneateles where he grew up. A favorite pastime, he would talk about what a wonderful and unique town it was to grow up in. His family owned and operated several businesses at that time and he would work in them, establishing a strong work ethic. After college, he became a salesman of electronic products and other various assundries, covering most of the northeast territory.
Duane’s favorite territory was his hometown. He was a social icon, very quick witted and had more friends than could be counted. He truly loved holding court with them all on any weekend at Morris’ Grill or The Sherwood Inn, Fabin’s or The Townhouse. Duane was fond of vacationing south, many times taking in the sun at Coral Bay, St. Johns in the Caribbean with a few close friends. He would cruise the warm waters staying on the ‘Silver Cloud’, a sailing ship captained by his good friend, Elliot Hooper. Wherever he went, the stories were unique, always funny and sometimes ‘historically colorful’.  Duane always corrected the phrase ‘I grew up’, claiming he never did. ‘Growing old is mandatory’ he’d say, growing up is an option’.
His familiar smile and friendship will be missed by everyone.
Calling hours will be Saturday, November 5, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Robert D. Gray Funeral Home on Jordan Street, Skaneateles. A reception will be held Sunday, November 6, at 2 p.m. at the American Legion Post on Jordan Street in Skaneateles. A graveside service on Monday, November 7, at 10:30 a.m. at the Lakeview Cemetery, section 6, West Genesee Street, Skaneateles is open to all who to wish to attend.  Donations may be made to the ASPCA, Hospice and the American Legion.
To send condolences visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.
 

 
 
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Shirley L. Boyer

10/25/2016

5 Comments

 
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 Shirley L. Boyer, 88, of Skaneateles passed away peacefully on October 25th at The Commons at St. Anthony in Auburn. Shirley volunteered for about 20 years at the St. James Thrift Shop in Skaneateles.
She was predeceased by her husband Elwood, her daughter Elaine Henderson and a sister Gloria Thompson. Shirley is survived by her daughter Laura Lester of Vermont, a sister Joan (Robert) Faes of Skaneateles. She is missed by many nieces, nephews and numerous friends. No services at this time. Contributions can be made in her name to The Laker Limo or to Helping Heads Skaneateles.
To send condolences visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

 

5 Comments

Donald Brinkerhoff Whiting

10/25/2016

19 Comments

 
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 Donald Brinkerhoff Whiting, 92 of Skaneateles died peacefully at Saint Anthony’s on The Commons in Auburn Tuesday. He was predeceased by his wife of 69 years, Catherine, in August. He is survived by sons Joseph (Diana ), Andrew ( Roberta ), Daniel , daughter Jeri , niece Linda Wheat, grandchildren, Heather, Gabriella , Nakeeya , great granddaughter Ella and friend and caregiver Linda Pientka.    
Don was the son of Lawrence and Hazel Whiting and a true native of Skaneateles being born at home on Leitch Avenue in the village in 1924. He spent several years in Lake Placid and took part in a skating exhibition for the opening ceremonies of the 1932 Winter Olympics. He graduated High School from Skaneateles where he boxed, played hockey and was an All-State trumpet player. He attended Colgate University, graduating from Delhi and was a builder by profession. He enlisted in the Army in 1942 and was a proud veteran of The 10th Mountain Division. A lifelong skier he was a member of the Ski Troops and was awarded three Bronze Stars for his service in The Italian Campaign. He played trumpet in The Army Band and later played in The Jordan Drum and Bugle Corp. and The Mottville Saints. He was an avid outdoors man and camper spending time in The Adirondacks and traveling around the country with the love of his life, Catherine, to different camp grounds. Always athletic he played hockey into his 60’s in the Industrial League, The Syracuse City League and Sunday mornings at The Allyn Arena.  He also played recreational softball with his sons Joe and Andy in The Joe Curtis Memorial League. Don was a lifetime member of The Skaneateles Fire Department, an avid gardener and particularly proud of his vegetable crop. He was loved and respected by his family and friends and will be missed by everyone who had the good fortune of knowing him. His wife Catherine summed him up best saying “He was a good, sweet man when I met him and he has never changed.” 
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to SAVES or The Skaneateles Fire Department.
Although there are no calling hours, remembrances can be left at robertdgrayfuneralhome.com

 
 

19 Comments

Wayne A. Lear

10/20/2016

22 Comments

 
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Wayne A. Lear, 88, of Skaneateles, passed away peacefully surrounded by loving family on October 21, 2016.
Wayne was born in Virgil, NY to George and Daisy Lear.  He served in the US Navy and learned about radios and avionics and returned home to start a career in law enforcement. He married Marion Ferris and started a family. He joined the NYS Troopers and retired after 25 years as Zone Sergeant. His enduring love of all things that fly was rewarded as he earned his private pilot license and shared his passion for flight with others.  He was a member of the Skaneateles Rod & Gun Club. He loved the outdoors, hunting, playing cribbage and baseball. He gave his love unconditionally to his daughters, June, April, Lori and Mary Jane, and their families.
Wayne's patience and perseverance served him well. He loved to share stories with humor and detail that became his trademark. In his last weeks, he enjoyed a celebration of his life with Marion at his side along with many family and friends. 
He is survived by his wife of nearly 65 years, his four daughters and their spouses, three grandchildren, and brothers, Roger and Dale Lear.
Calling hours will be Friday, October 28th  at Robert D. Gray Funeral Home, Skaneateles from 4 to 7 pm.
There will be a memorial service on Saturday, October 29th at 10 am at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of Central NY and the Skaneateles Rod & Gun Club.
To send condolences visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

 
22 Comments

Orazzio S. Leonti

10/16/2016

2 Comments

 
Orazzio S. Leonti, 95, of Auburn passed away on October 17th at Finger Lakes Center. A memorial service will be at a later date.
To send condolences visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.
 

 
 
 
 
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Jimmy R. Bennett

10/13/2016

16 Comments

 
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Jimmy R. Bennett passed peacefully at home with family at his side on October 14th after a short battle with cancer.
Jimmy retired from Welch Allyn in 2003. After which he spent his time hunting and fishing with his friends and family. He also spent much of his time with his large amount of ducks and chickens. He was also a member of the Mahogany Ridge Hunting Club.
He is survived by his wife of 48 years Barbara Miles Bennett. Children Kevin (Christina) Bennett, Laurie (Chuck) Stevens, Wendy Fisher, Scott Bennett and Kelly (Billy) Green. Grandchildren Nikki Bennett, Benjamin Stevens, Courtney and Jordan Fisher, Jessica, Schuyler Casey Bennett and Troy, Paige Green.
Jimmy is also survived by his mother Anna Bennett, brothers Robert, Michael and David Bennett and sisters Dorothy VanCise and Martha Merideth.
Special thanks to his friend Claudia Lambdin for all of her support and love daily thru this hard time. Calling hours will be held on Tuesday October 18th from 4 to 6pm with a service to follow at 6, at Robert D. Gray Funeral Home, Skaneateles. Contributions can be made to Hospice of the Finger Lakes.
To send condolences visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com. 

16 Comments

Ruth Tonry Veverka

10/9/2016

7 Comments

 
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 RUTH TONRY VEVERKA, age 98, passed away on Monday, October 10th. She was born in Martinsburg, West Va. on June 24, 1918.  She was the daughter of James Charles and May Elizabeth Tonry.  Ruth received her B. S. Degree in Home Economics from West Virginia University in1940, a M.S. Degree in Educational Psychology from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 1950, and completed post-graduate work in Library Science at the University of Nebraska-Omaha in 1970.  Ruth enlisted in the US Navy in Richmond, Va. on September 9, 1942, and was accepted into the first class of Midshipmen WAVES (Women Accepted for Voluntary Emergency Service). She was commissioned ensign January 8, 1943, after completing officers training at Smith College, Northhampton, MA.  Ruth was assigned to Washington, D.C. to Navy Dept. OP-20-G during World War II and later to the Naval Communcations Annex.  In July 1945 Ruth was transferred to Port Blakely, Washington on Bainbridge Island in Puget Sound to the USN Radio Supplementary Station. She was released on points Jan 6, 1946 as a lieutenant. In August of 1946 Ruth began working for the US Navy as a civilian cryptanalyst.  In September 1948 she married Cdr. Rudolph E. Veverka, USN. Ruth and Rudy lived and traveled according to Rudy’s various assignments as Commanding Officer, USN, in Arlington, Va., Lincoln, Neb., New Orleans, La., and San Diego Ca.  Prior to entering the service, Ruth taught high school for two years in Fort Ashby, West Va., and Bunker Hill, West Va.  Ruth also worked as a Librarian for School District 66 in Omaha, Nebraska from 1970-1988. 
            Ruth was a devoted wife and mother. She was a sensitive, gentle and gracious woman who loved art, music, and books. Ruth was a woman of remarkable strength, who met any challenge with courage and faith in our Lord.   She was a member of the American Red Cross, 1953-56, Navy Relief Society of San Diego, 1959-61, and a member of the American Association of University Women. She was a member of Atonement Lutheran Church in Syracuse, N.Y. Ruth is survived by her daughter, Karen Elizabeth Veverka of Skaneateles, N.Y., nephew Micheal Tonry, niece Senga Tonry Anen, god-daughter Sarah Veverka Fletcher of Fresno, Ca., and many grand nieces and nephews. Calling hours will be at Robert D. Gray Funeral Home in Skaneateles, NY, Thursday, October 13th from 4:00 - 7:00 PM., and at Browns Funeral Home, Martinsburg, West Va., on October 15th, 10-11:00 am, and graveside services with military honors and burial at Rosedale Cemetery, Martinsburg, West Va.
In lieu of flowers contributions can be made in her name to DAV-Disabled American Veterans.
To send condolences visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

 
 

7 Comments

James R. Garrison

10/9/2016

4 Comments

 
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James R. Garrison passed away peacefully on Monday, October 10th at 89 years young. James graduated from Englewood N.J. High School in 1944. He entered into the USNR as an Aviation Ordnanceman Third Class from 1945 – 1946 at 17 yrs. old. James then went to Dartmouth U.S. Forest Service in Arizona, and he went back to Dartmouth in 1948. Then he went to Canadian Artic North to help install joint U.S. – Canadian weather station, in Prince Patrick Island in 1950. In 1955 he moved to Skaneateles where he was a member of the Skaneateles Fire Department for 55 years. Because of his love for CNY, his diverse craftsmanship left his mark on may areas of Skaneateles Village, Town, lake and surrounding areas. James enjoyed reading, sailing, collecting and hunting in the Adirondacks with his buddies.
He was a lifetime summer resident at the south end of Skaneateles Lake, and retirement sailing in the Caribbean and Virgin Islands.
James is predeceased by his 2nd wife Dr. Carolyn Bogardus Ware PhD., and his parents Lewis F. Garrison and Frances Calcott Garrison.
He is survived by his children Pamela McMaster (Stephen), Gary Stephen Garrison, Jonathon B.G. Gutchess, Lewis F. Garrison II, William R. Ware (Debby), his buddy Blackie the Cat, and many lifetime friends and neighbors. Granddaughters Sara & Megan McMaster, Ashley Ware, and Kelly Clark. There will be a memorial service in the Spring. The family would like to send many thanks to his caregivers. Contributions in his name can be made to Skaneateles Fire Department.
To send condolences visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.


4 Comments

Lucia S. Mason

10/9/2016

5 Comments

 
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 Auburn, NY-Miss Lucia S. Mason, 97, died on Monday, October 10th, at her residence on 1 Brister Ave. She was born in Syracuse, NY and graduated from Nottingham High School. She received her BA and master degree at Syracuse University. She taught history in Adam, Mass. And later political science at Auburn Community College.
She is survived by a sister Edith Edson and nephew James Edson of Skaneateles. By nephews Paul Forrest of Forest, VA and Steven Forrest of Chesapeake, VA.
Lucia was a member of the Round About Club. Enjoyed Reading, was excellent Piano player. Lucia was fortunate to have Paticia Alcock-Zubel and other personal, Mary, Barb, Jean, Wendy, and Precious with tender care, keeping her in her home.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday October 13th from 10am-11am will a service to follow at 11am at Robert D. Gray Funeral Home, Skaneateles. Burial will be in Morningside Cemetery, Syracuse.
To send condolences visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.
 


5 Comments

Leonard B. Jarman

10/5/2016

13 Comments

 
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Leonard B. Jarman passed away at home after a brief illness on October 6, 2016.  Born in Reading, England and holding a British swimming record he joined the Royal Navy at 15 and became a submariner and diver and boxed for the Navy while obtaining three degrees in Electrical Engineering, Math and a Ph.D. in Physics. 
He later joined the Plessey Co., England designing sonar and supporting the navies of the world including on-board support of U.S. Naval ships in both Gulf wars.  He received “Worldwide Inventor of the Year” award and was included on the “Queen’s Annual List” for his technical contributions.
He married the love of his life and they personally converted a 16th century barn into a 5 bedroom house with their own four hands.  They later moved to the U.S. and did the same with an old carriage house.
In the U.S. Leonard worked for several sonar companies and became a U.S. Citizen, then started his own consulting company.  He was a life member of MINWARA.  He wrote 5 fiction novels and enjoyed writing songs.
This man, with the heart of a warrior and the soul of a poet, will be forever missed.  Wishing you peace, fair winds and following seas.  Safe journey my love. 
Services are private.
To send condolences visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

 
 
 
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