John ‘Jack’ Dowd

John ‘Jack’ Dowd, of Endicott, NY, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family on June 8, 2025, in Downers Grove, IL where he had been living for the past 2 1⁄2 years. Jack was the first born of John and Margaret Dowd, on December 30, 1935, in Utica, NY. 

He was preceded in death by his son, Jeffrey Dowd; wife Kathryn Fish Dowd; wife Carmelita Maroney (Zonio) Dowd, parents John and Margaret Dowd, sister Linda (Dowd) Payne, sister-in-law Anne (Cady) Dowd and nephew Steven Dowd. 

Jack is survived by his daughter and son-in-law Christine and Ross McKay of Downers Grove; grandson Dryden (Morgan) McKay of Lakeville, MN; and granddaughter Randi McKay of Green Bay, WI. He is also survived by brother Terry (Nancy) Dowd of Seminole, FL; sister Sharon (Richard) Jaquin of Baldwinsville, NY; and brother Bryan (Gloria) Dowd of Apollo Beach, FL. He leaves many nieces and nephews, great nieces, great nephews and close friends, particularly those in the Endicott area. 

Jack graduated from Utica Free Academy and Utica College. He served in the United States Army after graduation from college. After completing his service in the military, he returned home to Utica and was employed by Oneida National Bank. In February 1965, he was hired as the Data Processing Department Manager by the Endicott Johnson Shoe Corporation. Five years later, he was promoted to controller and later named Vice President of their Lehigh Safety shoe division, leaving the company after twenty-nine years. Jack finished his work career with GC Controls, retiring while in his seventies. 

He was an avid golfer and longtime member of the En-joie Golf Club. Jack loved bowling, playing cards, golf trips with his buddies to North Carolina, and attending the Preakness for many years. He was a Phillies fan at heart, but later gravitated toward the Mets, then the Cubs while living in the Chicago area. In the last 4 years Jack was fortunate to spend more quality time with his grandchildren which included family trips, graduations, softball and hockey games. Jack loved attending the many joyous occasions with his siblings and extended family through the years. 

We are grateful for the time we had – not just to care for him but to have the opportunity to be with him and create memories that will be treasured for a lifetime. 

A Funeral Mass will be held Monday June 16th at St. Joseph’s Church 207 Hayes Ave. Endicott, NY. Burial will follow in Vestal Hills Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at St. Joseph’s Church on Monday from 10:00 AM until time of Mass at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers expressions of sympathy in his memory may be made to a charity of one’s own choice.

Carl G. (Carly) Lewis

Carl G. (Carly) Lewis, 83 of Endicott, NY, passed away on May 24, 2025, and became the brightest star in the sky.  He is survived by his wife, Marina (Zonio) Lewis; three children, Randy (Melissa) Lewis, Scott Lewis, Michael (Lindy) Lewis; three grandchildren, Olivia Lewis, Connor and Parker Lewis. He was a retired employee of IBM Endicott and a member of the Vestal Elk’s Club. Carl was known and loved by many for his gift of gab and the way he could light up a room. He was an avid NY Yankee fan, golfer and animal lover.
A Funeral Mass will be held Tuesday June 17th at 1:30 PM at St. Anthony of Padua Church 300 Odell Ave. Endicott, NY. The family will receive friends at the church on Tuesday from 12:30 PM until time of Mass at 1:30 PM. Burial will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Animal Care Council 131 Washington Ave. Endicott, NY 13760.

Darren John Pero

Darren John Pero, age 63 of Endwell, NY, passed away on Tuesday, June 3, at Binghamton General Hospital after a courageous battle with cancer.  He was surrounded by his loving family.

Darren was born at Ideal Hospital in Endicott on December 26, 1961 the son of Philip and Barbara Creston Pero. He graduated from Union Endicott Class of 1980.  He attended SUNY Delhi. 

Darren married Vickie Crissell (Stiles) on July 9, 2017 in Jay, NY, with Justice of the Peace John Snow (Cousin of the Bride) officiating. They met on August 5, 1995, and spent many happy years together. Their favorite vacation spot was Ocean City, MD.

Darren retired from the Town of Union on December 31, 2021, where he worked in both the Refuse and Maintenance Departments.  Prior to that he was a member of the Carpenters Union and also worked at Tanzini Construction and JJ Creston Builder & Developer.  Darren was an avid fisherman and hunter. He also enjoyed a good round of golf or a game of darts with his many friends. He was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church.  His most cherished memory was a road trip to Alaska with his good friend Rick Daino.

Remaining to cherish Darren’s memory are his wife Vickie Pero, his mother Barbara Creston Pero, his sister Cheryl Pennisi (Michael), Kevin Pero (Margie), Christopher Pero (Shawn), his daughters Angela Pero and Elizabeth Meaney (Sean), his stepdaughter Stacie Conklin (Tammy), his granddaughter Sarah  grandsons Emani, Antoine and Anthony, his granddaughter Emma, his grandson James, his niece Nicolette Pennisi and nephew Zachary Pennisi his uncle John Creston and aunts Sylvia Creston, Jeanette Ciotoli, and Marie Pero, along with many cousins. He also leaves behind his favorite fur buddies Murphy, Indigo, Abby and his bunny, Fred.

Preceding him in death are his father, Philip Pero Sr. and stepson, Matthew Conklin and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Visitation will be held at Leon Pucedo Funeral Home on Sunday, June 8th from 2pm to 5pm to receive family and friends. A Funeral Mass will be held Monday, June 9th at 10 am at The Church of the Holy Family with burial following at the Slovak Catholic Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Mercy House of the Southern Tier, 212 McKinley Avenue, Endicott, NY 13760.

Kevin D. zuHone (1957-2025)

Kevin Dan zuHone, 68, of Endicott, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, May 13th, 2025. He was predeceased by his Mother and Father, Erma and Dietrich zuHone. He is survived by his three sons Jason zuHone, Justin zuHone and Kevin Jr. (Ashley) zuHone; three grandchildren Charlee zuHone, Carson zuHone and Cameron zuHone; three siblings, Karl (Kathy) zuHone, Kathy (David) Pagnani, Ken (Donna) zuHone; and several nieces, nephews, and good friends. He was recently retired from Binghamton University, CSEA Local 0902 where he worked for over 30 years in such roles like Expediter, Motor Vehicle Transport Operator, and Mail Room Shipping and Receiving clerk. Kevin also served a brief tour in the US Navy aboard an Aircraft Carrier, where he was able to see the world. Kevin enjoyed volunteering at New Life Ministries where he served in a variety of roles, such as front door greeter, Parking lot attendant, and even the coffee shop. When he wasn’t volunteering at the church or at work, he enjoyed spending time with his sons and grandchildren, walking the rail trail, enjoying his favorite honey mustard chicken pizza, shopping at the Broome County Farmers Market, and sharing his knowledge and love for all things Western, John Wayne, and the Revolutionary War with all those around him. A celebration of life will be held at New Life Ministries, 201 Hill Ave, Endicott, NY 13760 on Saturday, August 16th, 2025, at 3:00 PM with Paster Joe Wickman officiating. The family will receive guests from 2:00 PM until the start of the service at 3:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to New Life Ministries in honor of Kevin D. zuHone

Shirley Mehal

It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of my mom, Shirley Mehal on May 17, 2025. 

She was a shining example of a wonderful Mother (in-law), grandmother, great grand, sister, sister-in-law, aunt, godmother, and friend.

I am comforted she is now joyfully reunited with my brother Stephen after 40 years and my dad “Johnny" after 7 years. Left to mourn her are, daughter Lisa, son-in-law Dr. Steven Hassig and adored grandchildren, Dr. Kelsey Hassig (Greg),  Dr. Stephen Hassig (Chelsea), Morgan Fernandez (Stanley) and Matthew Hassig. She enjoyed her new role of Great Grandma to Ezra Hassig and Hudson Fernandez, brother Robert Sickles. 

The Mehal family, whom she cherished, includes many sisters-in-laws, brothers-in-law. She and my dad enjoyed years of monthly “Sib dinners" She was an aunt to many and a godmother to several. 

Her friend list is numerous, WOW but you each held a special place in her heart. Your years together are many over 60 years she and I often reminisced about. She enjoyed volunteering for Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital for 25 years and Holy Family and working alongside us at Broome Gastroenterology.

My parents married in 1961 and with their union she gained a large Mehal family. She recently told me she also found her connection to the Catholic faith and with the help of her sister in laws she converted to Catholicism.  She lived her life showing me strength in grief and determination in life's struggles. She was dedicated to her family, friends and God, but also a little stubborn.

I cannot say enough Thank you’s to those who helped us this past week, especially Binghamton General Palliative team, nurses. 

Funeral services will be held Tuesday May 27th at 11:00 AM at The Church of the Holy Family 3600 Phyllis St. Endwell, NY. Burial will follow in Vestal Hills Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at the church on Tuesday from 10:00 AM until time of Mass at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in her memory may be made to Mercy House of the Southern Tier 212 N. McKinley Ave. Endicott, NY 13760.

Fiona MacKay Ochse

It is with great sadness that the family of Fiona MacKay Ochse, 78 years old, of Vestal, NY announce her passing on May 15th, 2025. She is survived by her husband of 42 years, George R Ochse, her children, Joanne E Johnson and Martin D Kennedy, her grandchildren Kaeli E Miller, Chelsea A Drake, Jacob W Davis and her stepchildren Josh Ochse and Sarah Walsh, and their children. Predeceased by her parents, John and Jean Campbell of Glasgow Scotland. Fiona was born in. Scotland June 12th, 1947. She immigrated to NY in 1976 with her two children. She worked most of her life in human services as a job coach and supervisor for handicapped adults. She was known for her strong will, determination and willingness to help others. She loved her home in Pilot Mountain, NC, where she felt like she was home. She enjoyed going to new places and having new experiences. There are no words to describe how much she will be truly missed.  The family will receive friends at the Leon Pucedo Funeral Home, Inc. 1905 Watson Blvd. Endicott, NY on Saturday May 24th from 10:00 AM until 11:30 AM at which time there will be an opportunity to share some words of remembrance. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to the Lupus Foundation of America at www.lupus.org or Susan G Komen Organization at www.komen.org. 

Dorothy (Tupy) Harding

Dorothy (Tupy) Harding, 84 of Endicott, passed away on Wednesday May 7, 2025, at Wilson Hospital. She was predeceased by her husband, James Harding and her loving aunt, Kay Marincel. She is survived by two daughters, Cheryl Ziller (John), Lisa Pish (Brian); her grandson, Cameron Ziller (Jenna); her great-granddaughter, Olivia Ziller; her brother, Gary Tupy (Penny Pudiak), also several nieces, nephews and cousins. She was a retired employee of Union-Endicott High School, a member of St. Mary’s Orthodox Church, Endicott and an active member of its Ladies Guild. She was a nut roll (Holy Rollers) volunteer, an avid animal lover and enjoyed attending her grandson Cameron’s baseball games. Dorothy and her infectious smile will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday May 14th at St. Mary’s Orthodox Church 1907 Jenkins St. Endicott at 11:00 AM. Burial will be in the parish cemetery. The family will receive friends at the Leon Pucedo Funeral Home, Inc. 1905 Watson Blvd. Endicott, NY on Tuesday May 13thfrom 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM. The Rev. Nathaniel Choma will hold a Panachida Service Tuesday Evening at 6:45 PM at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to St. Mary’s Orthodox Church.

Frances Curatolo Cawley

Frances Curatolo Cawley, 92 of Endicott, passed away on Wednesday April 23, 2025. She was predeceased by her husband, William Cawley; her parents, Pietro and Giuseppa Curatolo; her brothers, Joseph Curatolo (Cecilia), Frank Curatolo (Adelene); her sisters, Leona Andagan (Andy), Sarah Griffith; her nephews, Thomas, Kenneth and Paul Curatolo. She is survived by her nieces, Celeste McCormick (Duncan), Johanna McCormick (Josh Hyde), Nardina Turner; her nephews, Dennis Curatolo (Lisa), Peter Curatolo (Diana), Scott Griffith (Kimberly), Lenora LaMonica Curatolo. Fran graduated from UE High School in 1950 and attended Ridley Business School in Binghamton. She then began working at IBM in 1951 and was a member of its Quarter Century Club and retired in 1984. She met her husband there and they were married in 1977. She enjoyed spending time at their cottage on the St. Lawrence fishing, boating, and just relaxing. Fran enjoyed bowling, playing golf, and country western dancing with Bill. She was a member of Northminster Presbyterian Church and sang in its choir as well as the Tri-Cities Opera Chorus.

Funeral services will be held Saturday May 10, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Northminster Presbyterian Church 711 Farm to Market Rd. Endwell, NY 13760. Burial will follow in Riverhurst Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church on Saturday from 10:00 AM until time of service at 11:00 AM. At the request of the family please consider wearing Fran’s favorite colors pink and purple. 

Jason Renner

Jason Renner, 46, of Johnson City passed away on April 24, 2025. He was predeceased by his mother Jean Renner, maternal grandparents Clarence and Sally Gunderman, paternal grandparents Allen and Dorothy Renner, uncles Fred Norovsky and Richard Renner, aunt and uncle Carole and Frank Schambach, and cousin Scott Schambach.

He is survived by his father Robert Renner, his siblings Jill and Steve Pavlovich, John Renner and Wendy Neuberger, Jeff and Bonny Renner, and Julie and Jon Shields, aunt and uncle David and Mary Renner. He also has many cousins, nieces and nephews. Jason was a huge pet lover and left behind his cat Teddy.

Services will be held on Saturday, May 3rd at Pucedo Funeral Home, 1905 Watson Blvd, Endicott. Calling hours are Noon – 2 pm with a short service following. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Broome County Humane Society in his memory.

Carl J. Savona

Carl J. Savona 62 of Endicott, New York passed away Thursday April 24, 2025. He was predeceased by his son, Jesse Savona: his parents, Frank and Catherine Savona; his brother Joe Savona. He is survived by the love of his life of twenty five years Lisa Thompson and her grandchildren who he thought of as his own, Kyler Goetz (Paige), Kalonie Bailey (Shae) and Keyleah Bailey. His brother Frank Savona. His sister Ann Canfield and her sons Dave (Crystal) and Dan Fairchild. His son Deacon Savona (Jade) and his son Sean Savona. His grandson Noah Savona. His stepchildren Justin Scott, Jamie Barber, Brandy Bailey, and Aldo (Ashley) Confalonieri, several nieces, nephews, grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

Carl worked multiple trades as an auto mechanic (Sears), carpentry, plumbing (Water Works) and the list goes on. He was very compassionate and detailed, and strived for perfection with each job he did. He said you can learn how to do anything if you just watch “You Tube.” He was very mechanical from a young age when his mother’s toaster broke he took it apart to pieces and fixed it for her. From his father giving him his first pick up truck when he got his license as a teen with business cards “We Haul You” and his father told him the Ad was in the paper already. From the phone ringing that day with 3rd floor apartments to be moved he recruited his forever best friends from Johnson City to help. He worked on houses with his father and brothers at “Savona and Sons” which he was proud of. He was a man of many talents and qualities.

Carl had a kind heart and generous spirit and was truly one of a kind. He was a family man showing love, kindness, and compassion. He enjoyed fishing and camping with  family and friends. He loved to play his guitars and listen to music and see bands. He was a giver always willing to help even if he did not know you. 

The last couple years were a struggle for him on each breath. He passed away Thursday morning at Wilson Hospital after a sudden fatal event that took his life. He was still giving even upon his last breath with family at his side for he chose to be an organ donor to live on in others.

 He will forever be remembered in our hearts, by his family and so many close friends, too numerous to list. He would love for us all to hold on to the memories that bring smiles to our faces. Love and peace to everyone. 

Celebration of life to follow on May 3, 2025 from 3- 7pm at Tap House 66 on 66 North Broad Street, Johnson City N.Y. Many close friends who loved him are playing in their bands. Everyone who has known him is welcome to come celebrate his beautiful life.

John R. Lupo

John R. Lupo, 70, of Endicott, NY, died April 20, 2025 with his soul mate, Michelle by his side.

He was predeceased by his parents Richard Lupo and Alice Lupo Buran (Milo), and only son Richie (Richard Lupo II).

John is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Michelle, his devoted children Edie Lupo, Randy Storms (Cheyne Northrup), and Angie Lupo (Steven Pidhajecky). Also his grand-children Daniel Jackson, Domonick Jackson (McKenzie Worzel), Avery and Aubrey Storms, Landon and Briella Lopez, expected grandson baby Pidhadecky, and great-granddaughter Ellianna. John is also survived by his sister Cindy Lupo, brothers and sisters in law; Pat and Jerry Martin, Bill and Andrea Barrrett, Mary and Jerry Lewis, and Eileen and Bob Dorko, several nieces, nephews, cousins, family pups Chica and Teddy, and dear friend Kevin Kroft. John was a good friend to so many, far too many to include all here. He may not have had a large bank account, but you can see he was a very wealthy man.

John was a devout Catholic and member of Our Lady of Good Counsel Church in Endicott, NY. A man of many skills, John enjoyed a long career as a tractor-trailer owner/operator, an accountant/office manager at Thomas Sbarra Century 21 Real Estate, Star Motors, and Boland Construction, was a driver for Advance Auto Parts, and an Insurance Inspector.

A musician at heart, back in the day John played drums and bass for many years with other talented musicians in several bands with gigs at local bars, and later he was a solo act singing and playing a keyboard with digital sampling and backup instrumentation. John loved sports, especially football and wrestling. He coached Richie’s youth football team to an undefeated season. He wrestled at ME, and that love lived on as Richie became an award winning, 6-year varsity wrestler at UE. Beyond the family, his favorite place was in the wind on his motorcycle, most often with Michelle on the back. He kept riding up til just a few weeks before his passing. Passionate in his beliefs and opinions, John also loved to debate with anyone about anything from religion to politics, soup to nuts, and had a great sense of humor.

The untimely death of his son, Richie, was the catalyst for creating the Ride for Richie charity, to make sense of the tragedy. Ride for Richie became his mission: to be a beacon of hope in our local community, extending a lifeline to those facing darkness, offering support to individuals at risk of suicide, uplifting the downtrodden with financial and moral assistance, and providing crucial aid to local animal shelters. This year will be the 5th annual Ride for Richie event, on September 27th.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 4 pm Thursday, April 24, at St. James Catholic Church, 147 Main Street Johnson City. A private interment will be at a later date. The family will receive friends at the church, April 24 from 2 to 4 pm, when Mass begins. All who knew John understood he was not a man of formality, so please come as you are. 

Expressions of sympathy in John's memory to the Ride for Richie organization (501c3) would be gratefully accepted, or to another charity of choice.

Carmen Alamo Garcia

Carmen Alamo Garcia

March 27, 1944 – April 19, 2025

Carmen Alamo Garcia, born in Puerto Rico on March 27, 1944, passed away peacefully at home on April 19, 2025, at 12:30 a.m., surrounded by her loving family. A devoted Christian, Carmen’s life was anchored in her faith. She loved prayer deeply and found strength, peace, and purpose through her walk with God.

She was cared for with love and tenderness by her two daughters, Vivian Donlin, and Janet Hildago in her final days. The family is especially grateful to the compassionate staff at Lourdes Hospice and Wilson Oncology for their support and care.

Carmen is survived by her devoted husband, Hector Serrano, and her two daughters. She was a proud grandmother to four grandchildren and a cherished great-grandmother to eight great-grandchildren. Her legacy of love, prayer, and faith lives on through each of them.

Her life was a beautiful example of grace, devotion, and quiet strength. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Elwin C. Dean

Elwin C. Dean, 96 of Endicott, NY, passed away Tuesday April 15, 2025. He was predeceased by his wife, Mary (Ripic) Dean and his brothers, Elery and William Dean. He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Stephen and Susan Dean; two grandchildren, Edward Ryder, Melinda and Steven Moss; five great-grandchildren; nine great-great-grandchildren. He was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Byzantine Catholic Church and a veteran of the US Army serving during the Korean War.

Funeral services will be held on Monday April 21st at Sts. Peter and Paul Byzantine Catholic Church 106 N. Rogers Ave. Endicott, NY. Burial will be in the Parish Cemetery in the Spring. The family will receive friends at the church on Monday from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in his memory may be made to Sts. Peter and Paul Byzantine Catholic Cemetery 106 N. Rogers Ave. Endicott, NY 13760.

Adam Joseph Roma

Adam Joseph Roma, 39, was born on Christmas Eve 1985 and passed away on Palm Sunday April 13, 2025, after a journey of chronic illness. He was predeceased by his grandparents Anthony L Roma and Antoinette (Salamida) Roma as well as infant cousin Ryan Sierzant.

He is survived by his mother, Kathy Roma; his uncle Rick Roma, aunt Julie Bambara and cousin Dominic; his aunt Joanne Sierzant, uncle Frank Sierzant, cousins Jessica and Emily Sierzant; his aunt Tina Burrows and special “aunt” Ilka Slacik; and Adam’s army of friends led by Justin VanDervort. 

Special thanks to Julie Bambara for her love, support and staunch advocacy.

Special thanks and love to Joanne and Tina for being there for Adam every day of his life. He loved you very much. Adam will be remembered for his resilience, kindness and humor. These enduring traits are the memories we will cherish forever. 

Private funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Expressions of sympathy in his memory may be made to Mercy House 212 N. McKinley Ave. Endicott, NY 13760.

Jeanne (Ferencik) Wilczak

Jeanne (Ferencik) Wilczak, 79 of Johnson City, NY, went home to Heaven on April 10, 2025, at the Susquehanna Nursing Home. She was predeceased by her parents, Stephen and Lucille Ferencik and her brother, Bill Ferencik. She is survived by her husband of fifty-three years, David Wilczak; her daughter, Andrea Wilczak; her son, Bryan Wilczak; two grandchildren, Madison and Hunter Perry; her brother, Richard (Betty) Ferencik and two cherished canine companions who brought her much joy and happiness, Sandy and Sadie. Jeanne’s family extends a sincere thank you to the staff of the Susquehanna Nursing Home for their compassion and care during a difficult time.
Private funeral services were held at the convenience of the family. Expressions of sympathy in her memory may be made to the Susquehanna Nursing Center 282 Riverside Dr. Johnson City, NY 13790.

Dawn Marie Robinson

Dawn Marie Robinson passed away peacefully at Crown Park Nursing Center in Cortland, New York on Monday April 7th, 2025 after a brief illness.  She was born in Binghamton, New York to Walter and Henrietta Lott on November 11th, 1939.  She is survived by her children: Cheri (Rob), Bert (Linda), Lynette (Joe) and Darren; as well as numerous Grandchildren and Great-Grandchildren.

Burial will be at Vestal Hills Memorial Park at the convenience of the family.  There will be no service beforehand, but a Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date.

Mrs. Beverly Jane Toner-Brozzetti

Mrs. Beverly Jane Toner-Brozzetti of Johnson City, New York went to be with the lord March 23rd, 2025. Beverly was born on December 26th, 1936.

     Beverly enjoyed time with her family and traveling with her husband. One of her most treasured times was cooking holiday meals with her family. She was an avid walker as well.

     Beverly was preceded in death by her husband, Eugene V. Brozzetti; her son Anthony Brozzetti; her parents Albert and Paulina Toner and her brothers John, Jerry, Thomas and Robert Toner.

   Beverly is survived by her sons, Eugene A. Brozzetti (Lori), Raymond and Vincent Brozzetti (Phyllis); grandson Michael V. Brozzetti; her sisters Carol and Shirley Toner and her brother Joseph Toner(Eileen).

    A Funeral Mass will be held at  11:30 AM Friday, March 28that St. Thomas Aquinas Church 1 Aquinas St. Binghamton, NY 13905.

   In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s  Foundation of America at alzfdn.org

Geraldine Deraco

Geraldine Deraco, 90, of Gulfport, Florida formerly of Vestal, New York passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 19, 2025 surrounded by her loving family. Gerry is predeceased by her husband of 48 years Joseph, her parents Alfonso & Stella Virgilio and sister Valarie Virgilio. Gerry is survived by her son, Michael Deraco and his children, John Deraco, Elizabeth Gill and James Deraco; daughter, Mary Rose Deraco and her children Luca and Diego Sosa; and daughter Christine Juozitis (Michael) and their children Jessica and Emily Juozitis; two great-grandchildren; Henry & Margaret Gill; siblings Lawrence (Anita) Virgilio, Linda (Craig) O’Connor and several adoring nieces and nephews. Gerry was born on June 5, 1934 in Johnson City, New York to parents Alfonso and Stella Virgilio. Gerry is a graduate of Johnson City High School and continued her education at the State University of New York, College at Cortland where she received a Bachelors of Science in Elementary Education and a Masters Degree in Literacy Education. In 1958 she married the love of her life Joseph Deraco and together they raised 3 children in Vestal, New York. Gerry spent her career as a beloved teacher for 34 years. Most of Gerry’s teaching career was spent in the Vestal Central School District. In her time at Vestal, she touched the hearts of countless students, colleagues and friends. Her passion for teaching, patience, and unwavering kindness left a lasting impact. After retiring from teaching in 1989, Gerry and her husband Joe began the next chapter of their lives in Gulfport, Florida where Gerry was actively involved in the community; volunteering at Gulfport Elementary School, serving as member of the Gulfport Women’s Club and knitting and crocheting for the homeless, hospice and infants. Gerry cherished time spent with her family and friends, playing cards, knitting, crocheting and traveling. She always greeted others with a sense of warmth, wisdom and laughter. Her legacy of love, friendship and dedication to others will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Gerry’s family would like to thank the palliative care team at UHS Wilson Hospital. 

A Funeral Mass will be held Wednesday March 26, 2025 at 10:30 AM at Our Lady of Sorrows Church 801 Main St. Vestal, NY 13850. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery, Johnson City, NY. The family will receive friends at the church on Wednesday from 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in her memory to Vestal Dollars for Scholars, PO Box 959, Vestal, NY 13851-0959 or www.vestal.dollarsforscholars.org 

Paul Choberka (Tall Paul)

Paul Choberka (Tall Paul) of Vestal, NY, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, March 16, 2025. He was predeceased by his parents Andy and Pauline Choberka. He is survived by his loving sister Andrea, his sons Andy (Colleen) and Doug (Tami); his grandchildren Kourtnie Rivera (Ryan), Caitlin and Corey; his great-grandchildren Liliana and Rowen Rivera; his special friend Jeanne Choberka. Paul retired from IBM. He loved hunting and fishing. Paul will be missed by all. 

A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday April 6, 2025 from 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM at the Vestal Elks Lodge 2071 Vestal Pkwy W. Vestal, NY 13850

Irene (Moravec) Lee

Irene (Moravec) Lee 97 of Endicott passed away peacefully on March 12, 2025, at Mercy House after a short illness. She was predeceased by three sons, Robert, Michael and Richard Lee; her parents, Peter and Catherine Moravec; two sisters, Anne Demetros and Mary Gunderman. She is survived by three children, David (Sandy) Lee, Deborah (John) Lawton, Jennifer Picciano; two daughters-in-law, Margaret Lee and Elise Lee; one sister, Frances Hounslow; nine grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. She was a member of Our Lady of Good Counsel Church, Endicott. Special thanks to the staff of Lourdes Hospital for the compassionate care of Irene. She was a loving mother and grandmother and will be greatly missed.
A Funeral Mass will be held Saturday March 22, 2025, at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church 701 W. Main St. Endicott, NY at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow at Riverhurst Cemetery, Endwell, NY. The family will receive friends at the church on Saturday morning from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in her memory to either Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central New York 1100 E. Genesee St. Syracuse, NY 13210 or Mercy House 212 N. McKinley Ave. Endicott, NY 13760.