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Richard "Dick" Kokosa

10/29/2021

Richard “Dick” Kokosa, 84, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family at his home in Skaneateles, NY on October 29, 2021.

He was born on November 4, 1936 and attended Draper High School in Schenectady, NY where he met his future wife of 63 years, Mary Lee (White) Kokosa. He married his high school sweetheart on August 23, 1958. He obtained B.S. and M.S. degrees in Physics at Union College in 1958 and Rutgers University in 1960, respectively.

Dick worked for General Electric Company for 24 years beginning in 1960 with research and development at the Auburn, NY plant where he co-authored several patents for semiconductor technology. He then advanced to management of the semiconductor business unit and operations at the Auburn, NY plant, then eventually management of the Contractor Equipment business unit for three years in Plainville, CT. In 1984, Dick and Mary Lee saw an opportunity to return to Skaneateles, and during the final 14 years of his career, he served as Vice President of the Lighting Systems Division of the former Welch Allyn, Inc. (Hillrom) in Skaneateles Falls, NY where he successfully grew the lighting business by expanding the use of fiber optic technology and LED lamps to new applications in the industrial and aviation sectors.

Dick was very active as a civic leader and with youth sports including past member of the Board of Education for Skaneateles Central School, officer of Skaneateles Jaycees, board of directors for Auburn Chamber of Commerce, past President of the Skaneateles Library Association, past President of the Skaneateles Rotary Club, coach for Lakeshore Little League Baseball, hockey Dad for his two sons, and softball coach for his daughter.

Dick is survived by his wife Mary Lee (White) Kokosa, his sister Reggie (Kokosa) Snyder of Wilmington, NC, his son Vernon Kokosa and his wife Lisa (Keegan) Kokosa of Dennis, MA, his son Andrew Kokosa and his wife Patricia (Mollihan) Kokosa of Aurora, IL, his daughter Nancy (Kokosa) Cyr and her husband Scott of Boise, ID, plus six grandchildren; Daniel Kokosa of Nashua, NH, Jonathan Kokosa of Amherst, NH, Drew Kokosa and his wife Kate of Chicago, IL, Zak Kokosa and his wife Katie of San Francisco, CA, Hunter Cyr of Warren, MI, and Bretta Cyr of Bozeman, MT. His faithful dog Charlie will miss him dearly.

A Celebration of Life will be held at The Lodge on the grounds of the former Welch-Allyn plant (Hillrom), 4355 State Street, Skaneateles Falls, NY on Thursday, November 4, 2021 from 6:00 to 9:00 pm.
Memorial donations may be made to SAVES, 77 Fennell Street, Skaneateles, NY 13152, or to the Skaneateles Library Association, 49 E. Genesee Street, Skaneateles, NY 13152.

To send condolences, visit www.robertdgrayfuneralhome.com

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Eleanor "Ellie" D. Benoit

10/29/2021

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Eleanor “Ellie” D. Benoit, 90, passed away at home on October 29, 2021, where she was surrounded by family.
The oldest of four sisters, Ellie was born October 19, 1931, in Lowell, MA to Joseph and Ellen (Flynn) Duffy. After graduating from Keith Hall in Lowell, she attended Tufts University’s Boston School of Occupational Therapy, graduating in 1954. Upon graduation, she worked as an occupational therapist at Boston’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital. In 1956, she married Chester N. Benoit and they began their married life in Pomfret, CT. There, Eleanor worked for the Connecticut Health Department until she started her family in 1962.
In 1968, the family relocated to Skaneateles, NY, settling into a house that became their home for the next 53 years. In 1976, she returned to work as the director of occupational therapy at Mercy Health and Rehabilitation Center, where she remained until 1996.
While Ellie never forgot her New England roots and she initially struggled with the long, gray Central New York winters, she quickly came to love the Finger Lakes Region and being part of the Skaneateles community. Throughout her 53 years in Skaneateles, she was active in the community and volunteered with Meals on Wheels, FISH and at both Francis House and Vera House in Syracuse.
Her Catholic faith was unshakeable, and she was an active parishioner at St. Mary’s of the Lake, where she was a long-time catechist, morning mass lector and active in both the Campaign Against Hunger and Altar Care Ministries.
She was also a formidable duplicate bridge player, playing in multiple bridge groups, with one group of Skaneateles moms playing the last Wednesday of each month for more than 20 years. When it came to cards, Ellie always played to win, and at the card table her friends will readily tell you that she did not suffer fools easily.
Ellie also loved traveling, with she and her husband taking trips throughout the U.S., Canada, Europe, South American and China. Her favorite trips were home exchanges in Provence; trips to Ireland, which was her ancestral home; and an Elder Hostel trip to Quebec, where they studied French for three weeks.
Ellie was predeceased by her parents and her sister Mary Ruth Saulen. She is survived by her husband of nearly 65 years Chester N. Benoit; her sister Joanne Lynch of Hooksett, NH; her sister Martha Duffy of Lowell, MA; her son Jeffrey Benoit and his wife Donna of Dennis, MA; her daughter Lisa Levinson of Delray, FL; her daughter Ellen Donovan and her husband Todd of Skaneateles; and her son Marc Benoit and his partner Jenn Yackel of Marcellus, NY. She is also survived by her eight grandchildren: Matthew Benoit, Philip Benoit, Danielle Levinson, Liam Donovan, John “Jack” Donovan, Aidan Donovan, Caleb Kirk and William Kirk as well as eight nieces and nephews
The Benoit family would like to extend a special thanks to Dee Sweet and Nicole Rex, who provided Chet and Ellie with such extraordinary care, compassion and much needed humor over the past year. We are forever grateful. The family also wants to express their thanks to all those who supported Ellie during her battle with cancer. This support sustained her on so many levels and was also one of the many reasons why she loved this town so much.
The family welcomes friends to attend Ellie’s funeral mass this Saturday, November 6, 2021 at 12 noon at St. Mary’s of the Lake Church in Skaneateles with a private burial to follow.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Ellie’s name to the Hospice of Central New York or Francis House in Syracuse, NY. To send condolences, visit www.robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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Arnold "Arnie" Pollock

10/27/2021

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Arnold “Arnie” Pollock, 85, of Skaneateles, passed away peacefully on Wednesday 10/27 at the Laurel House Hospice House in Newark NY.
Born in 1935 to Michael and Nettie Pollock in Philadelphia, PA, he attended Central High School for Boys and went on to later to graduate from Temple University. He moved to Central New York in the early seventies and made Skaneateles his hometown in 1973.
He was a furniture manufacturer’s sales representative until he retired in 2015, and was an avid golfer. He was known as Arnie Pollock, the golfer and Arnie Palmer the salesman. When he wasn’t on the road for business, or on the golf course, he devoted his time to his family. He traveled to hockey games hours away, sat in the stands watching football games in the snow, attended band, chorus, orchestra concerts, musicals, and dance recitals all with a smile on his face, even if he dozed off for a couple minutes.
Known as the Golden Adonis, Arnie enjoyed his time in the sun and working on his tan. He spent a lot of time outside on the golf course, on the lake, or by the ocean. He enjoyed travel and was fortunate to see a lot of the world with Rose Ellen. He loved his Frank Sinatra, show tunes and classical music.
He was an avid Syracuse basketball fan, and a mediocre Philadelphia Eagles fan. He enjoyed spending weekends watching football, basketball and golf on TV, providing his own commentary and expert opinions.
He lit up every room he walked in to. He could tell a story better than anyone, and a joke even better.
Arnold is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Rose Ellen Pollock. He leaves behind his five children Jeffrey (Tina) Pollock of Hilton Head SC; Julie (Ray) Garcia of Naples FL; Merydith (David) Blank of Huntersville NC; Grant (Nicole) Pollock of Wellesley MA; Veronica (David Meyers) Pollock of Washington DC. He is also survived by his eight grandchildren who were the light of his life and of whom he loved to brag about, tirelessly. He also survived by his brother Roy (Sue) Pollock; brother-in-law Robert (Patricia) Reed; niece and nephews, as well as so many other people who adored him.
Family and friends are welcome to gather for calling hours at Robert D. Gray Funeral Home, Skaneateles, on Friday, October 29th from 11 to 12:30pm with a service immediately following. Live stream of the service ::https://youtu.be/M9tlj-EdWes

Arnie will be buried in Fort Hill Cemetery, Auburn, NY.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Arnie’s name to the Laurel House, 224 Fair Street, Newark NY 14513 or the Skaneateles Library.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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Roy J. MacDonald

10/26/2021

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Roy MacDonald, 75, passed away peacefully on Tuesday 10/26 at his home in Skaneateles NY.
He was born in 1946 to Hugh Duncan and Helen MacDonald in Syracuse. He attended Christian Brothers Academy and later went on to graduate from Niagara University. During his time in college, he joined the US Navy Reserves. He spent 27 years in the Reserves and retired as a Lieutenant Commander.
Roy had a long career in sales with Alcon Chemical and Roberts Supply. He ultimately ended up working at Niagara Mohawk as a paralegal retiring in 2000
During his retirement he held a few jobs but his favorite was driving a school bus for the Skaneateles School district. He said the kids helped him feel like he was still young. He also joined the Rotary that helped him form new friendships later in life.
Roy is survived by his loving wife of 49 years Ann MacDonald. He leaves behind his five children Cara (Eric) Lindgren of Marcellus NY; John (Mary) MacDonald of Belmont MA; Patrick (Amy) MacDonald of Skaneateles NY; Thomas (Lauren) MacDonald of Marcellus NY; Kate (Travis) Ryan of Skaneateles NY. His five children and their spouses provided him with thirteen grandchildren that he loved very much. He truly enjoyed having them all around the house making lots of noise.
He was not only a loving father, but a huge supporter of all his children’s sporting events. He helped coach them when they were young and made as many of their athletic/ scholastic events as he could. Always cheering and offering his support any way he could.
He is also survived by his sisters in law Kathleen (David) Piper; Ellen O’Shea; Mary Gardner.
Family and Friends are welcome to attend a Funeral Service for Roy on Monday November 1, 2021 at 10:00 am at St. Marys Church in Skaneateles with a private burial to follow.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Roy’s name to the Skaneateles Rotary.

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Robert J. Greiner Sr.

10/24/2021

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Robert J. Greiner Sr. (Bob); age 90, died in Auburn, New York on October 24, 2021. He resided in Skaneateles, New York for 53 years with his wife of 55 years, Dolores Greiner, whom still resides there today.
He is also survived by his 4 children, Robert Greiner Jr. of Jacksonville, Florida, Michael Greiner (and spouse Emily) of West Salem, Wisconsin, Eric Greiner of Skaneateles, New York, and Michelle (Mitch) Whitfield of Boca Raton, Florida and 6 grandchildren, Ryan York of Weedsport, New York, Grady and Josie LaJeunesse of West Salem, Wisconsin, Mackenzie Whitfield of Boca Raton, Florida and Jack and Josie Greiner in West Salem, Wisconsin.

Robert was born July 4, 1931 in Syracuse, New York to parents Lester and Virginia Greiner. He graduated from Christian Brothers Academy in Syracuse, New York in 1946. In 1952 he started working for Niagara Mohawk in Syracuse, New York and remained there for 38 years until his retirement in 1990. He was a Staff Sergeant in the United States Airforce until he received an honorable discharge in 1958.

Robert enjoyed raising his family on Skaneateles Lake. He was an avid boater and swimmer and always loved to take his family for picnics by boat to the south end of the lake. He will be missed for his fun-loving spirit and subtle humor and his willingness as a father to join in on the fun with his kids, whether it was a sled ride or a ping pong tournament.

Robert was a devout Catholic and active member of St. Mary’s on the Lake in Skaneateles, New York.

A funeral mass will be held on Friday, October 29th at 10am at St. Mary’s of the Lke Church, Skaneateles. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery. All are welcome to attend and join the family in celebrating Robert’s life.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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Loretta Johanna Kinney

10/23/2021

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Loretta Johanna Kinney
December 5, 1949 - October 23, 2021

Our dear Loretta “Gretta” died from a fall, following several years of failing health. We will miss terribly her quick wit, creativity, humility and generosity.
After graduating from Skaneateles Central High School, she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Art Education at SUNY Buffalo, later achieving the prestigious title of Certified Gemologist and Appraiser. Loretta loved to travel and worked in Hawaii and San Francisco before returning to Skaneateles to care for her mother. Loretta was a gifted designer and manufacturer of fine jewelry, delighting many with her personalized creations.
A devoted daughter and loyal friend, she was predeceased by her father Leonard, mother Bertha and brothers Danny and John. She is survived by her sister Linda Hevner (Ray), two beloved nephews Joseph and Joshua, and many cousins.
Her “Celebration of Life” will be held at 2PM on her birthday December 5, 2021 in the Gathering Room at The Center, 1 Hoffman Street, Auburn NY. All who knew and cherished her are welcome.
Donations are encouraged in her memory for the maintenance of the Blessed Mother’s Grotto at St. Mary’s of the Lake Church in Skaneateles, NY.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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Donna M. Wicks

10/20/2021

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    Donna M. Wicks died peacefully in the early hours of October 20th, in hospice care. Donna was a life resident of Skaneateles.
    She is survived by her daughter, Elizabeth (Bill) of Norwich, NY; her grandson Jacob, of Tampa, Florida; her granddaughter, Cassandra Mann (Evan) of Colorado Springs; her great granddaughter Estelle; two brothers, Bernard Hudgins and Douglass Hudgins; and several nieces and nephews.
    She was predeceased by her husband, Robert Wicks; father, Bernard Hudgins and her mother, Elizabeth Hudgins.
    Donna was a lifetime employee of Niagara Mohawk from 1967 to retirement in 2002. Donna was known by friends and family to make the world's greatest apple pies Her love of baking and canning is fondly remembered.
    Her favorite places to travel were Hilton Head Island, Cape Cod and the Adirondacks in the Fall and her trips to Colorado and Florida to see family.
   Calling hours will be held at Robert D. Gray Funeral Home, Skaneateles, on Friday, November 12th from 4 to 6pm with a service immediately following at 6pm.
    Donations may be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Foundation or Hospice of CNY.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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Robert P. Powell

10/20/2021

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Robert P. Powell was born on October 16, 1942 to Philip and Theresa Powell. He attended Skaneateles Central Schools graduating as Salutatorian in 1960. His talent as a drummer earned him 1st chair status in high school and 1st position in the US Army Band at Ft. Belvoir, VA where he served from 1964 to 1966. Upon separation from the Army, he played in several local bands, most notably Carnage and Odessy.
Bob was a dedicated, loving, and proud father; after retiring from being a drummer, he spent the majority of his time, energy, and intellect raising his son. His love of knowledge and athletics (especially S.U. Sports) contributed to Christian’s success both in the classroom and on the field/court.
He is survived by his son Christian Perra-Powell, his significant other, Marie Perra, and his brother and niece, Thomas and Genieve Powell.
Memorial service will be held on Tuesday, October 26th at 10am at St. Mary’s of the Lake Church, Skaneateles. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Skaneateles.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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Marsha L. Fassinger

10/19/2021

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Marsha was born may 23, 1967. She attended school in Skaneateles, she maintained a life long friendship with some of her classmates, but always partied and hung out with her brother Greggs friends. She met her future husband Paul Fassinger right out of school and they were married in the summer of 1988.

After working at Welch Allyn / GE Technology she raised a son Zachary whom she very very proud of. She loved to travel, camping with family, the cow pattie classic a fun golf outing in a cow field, the American Legion post 317 were she was a 25 year member, late night phone calls, giving birthday spankings, playing pool even though she wasn’t good at it, only stayed at family events for a scheduled amount of time, loved to give lectures to her nieces and nephews and also her brothers, but her favorite thing was her extra curricular activities.

Marsha was predeceased by her beloved husband Paul E. Fassinger of 7 years and her father Carl v. Atwater.

She is survived by her son Zachary E. Fassinger, mother Barbara (Tuck) and Tim Wymbs, 3 brothers Brian (Jeanne) Atwater of Fayetteville, Gregg (Christine) Atwater of Skaneateles, Kirk (Rebecca) Atwater of Union Springs, 12 nieces, nephews, cousins and treasured friends.

Calling hours will be Thursday October 28th from 5-7pm at Robert D. Gray Funeral Home with a service afterwards at 7. Burial is private in Mount Pleasant Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Skaneateles Falls Post 317 Auxiliary 4572 Jordan Rd. Skaneateles Falls, NY 13153.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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Virginia Muggleton

10/19/2021

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    Virginia Muggleton of Skaneateles peacefully passed in her home October 19th. Virginia was born October 26, 1920 in Venice, New York, daughter of Evelyn and Raymond Young of Poplar Ridge, New York.
    Virginia and her late husband Robert opened their photography studio on Williams Street in Auburn in1951 and later established the Muggleton Art Gallery at the same address. Virginia resided in Auburn with her husband Robert, until their retirement in 1979, when they moved to Skaneateles. They were among the original patrons of the Skaneateles Festival and wintered in Fort Myers and Key West, Florida.
    Virginia was predeceased by her parents E. Raymond and Evelyn Gilling Young, Infant Sister Caroline Ruth, Sister Jean Young Vorreuter, Brother Ernest (Bud) Young, Foster Brother Kenneth Pople and Husband, Robert E. Muggleton.
   Virginia is survived by 3 Nieces and 6 Nephews.
There will be no calling hours, a private service will be held at the convenience of the family.
    Contributions can be made to Hospice of Central New York, 990 7th North Street, Liverpool, NY 13088.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.

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