Author Archives: CFH

HUDSON FALLS – Rhonda Geertgens Barber, 69, passed away on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at Slate Valley Nursing and Rehab Facility, after a long illness.

Born on August 16, 1955, in Albany, she was the daughter of the late Paul and Arletta Geertgens.

Rhonda Graduated from Scotia-Glenville High School where she spent most of her time in the art room. She also wrote for the schools newsletter.  Following high school she furthered her education at Samaritan, earning her degree in nursing.

For over 10 years she served as an addiction counselor in the area and the unit manager for Albany Medical Center in their NICU program. Later in life she attended the New School for Radio and Television. She was employed for a short time as a disk jockey for local radio stations.

After retirement Rhonda spent most of her time cooking and baking, especially for holidays and Birthday parties. She was a kind woman who could find humor in most circumstances, she was best known for her joyous laughter.

She loved to cook and bake, fish and work on arts and crafts.  Rhonda was an avid NY Yankee Fan.  She especially loved her fur babies, her cats, Romeo, Charlie and Jimbo and her puppy Rocky.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her daughter, Brianna Rhodes.

She is survived by her husband of eight years, Martin Barber, III; her two children, Kyle (Rae) Geertgens and Hannah Rhodes; her grandchildren, Mackenzie, Karter, Matthew and Harper; her stepchildren, Kristin (Juan) Orozco and Martin Barber, IV; her step grandchild, Jackson.

Memorial donations in Rhonda’s memory may be sent to a local animal shelter or the American Cancer Society, 33 Elk St Suite 201, Albany, NY 12207.

FORT EDWARD – Bruce William Tyler, 66 of Burgoyne Avenue, passed away Monday, October 28, 2024 at his home.

Born on September 20, 1958 in Saratoga Springs, he grew up in Saratoga and was the son of the late Augustus Tyler and the late Beverly (Hawkins) Murtlow.

Bruce was an outdoorsman and love to hunt and fish. He also enjoyed riding his motorcycle, but spending time with his children was his favorite thing to do. Bruce liked to work on cars and motorcycles and enjoyed working as a handyman.

In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by his stepfather, James Murtlow; a sister, Laurie Lloyd; and a stepson, Jason Tucker.

He is survived by his children, Brandon McIntosh, Orion Tyler, Braylin Tyler, and Lilith Tyler; his granddaughter, Paisley Sawn; his siblings, Amy Pechette, Neal Tyler, and Mark Tyler; life-long dear friends, Sherry Jay, Terri McIntosh Reyes, and Glenn Wetherby; and many, many nieces and nephews.

Service will be private at the convenience of the family.

HUDSON FALLS – Bernard D. Holz, 80 of Hudson Falls passed away early Friday morning, November 1, 2024, following a short illness.

Born on March 12, 1944 in Hempstead, he was the son of the late Bernard Thomas Holz and the late Grace (Sullivan) Holz of Hempstead.  Bernard was a 1962 graduate of South Glens Falls High School.  In 1962 he enlisted in the United States Air Force and served as an Air Force policeman.  He was honorably discharged in 1966.

Bernard is predeceased by his wife, Bonnie S. Finkle, who he married on May 4, 1968, and enjoyed over 43 years of marriage and companionship.  He worked for Hercules, Ciba-Geigy, and most recently the City of Glens Falls Wastewater Treatment Plant.

Bernard enjoyed tinkering around the house, doing yardwork, home-cooked meals with family (made by someone else), and sitting on his front porch watching the neighborhood with a cup of coffee, the newspaper, listening to the radio with his canine companions throughout the years.

In addition to his parents and wife, Bernard is predeceased by a step-mother Hilda Holz, parents-in-law Horace and Shirley Finkle, and a brother-in-law, Robert Bradway.

He is survived by his daughter, Heidi (Thomas) Cioffi of Fort Edward, son Daniel (Megghan) Holz of Latham,  grandchildren Kevin (Mark) Trapasso and Jessica Hougham, and a great-grandson Memphis Hougham, his half-brothers Jay (Christine) Holz of Amsterdam and Michael (Christine) Holz of San Diego and half-sister Michele (Charles) Barber of Minerva, three sisters-in-law Jane Bradway of Hudson Falls, Sandra (Steven) Sweet of Lake George, and Priscilla (Wayne) Seguin of Massena, NY and many nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, November 6, 2024 at St. Mary’s/St. Paul’s Church, on the park in Hudson Falls, Where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by the Rev. Robert Powhida. Burial with military honors will follow at the Gerald BH Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Duell Road in Schuylerville.

Memorial donations can be made in his name to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741, or to The Humane Society of the United States, 1255 23rd Street, NW, Suite 450, Washington, DC 20037.

SARATOGA SPRINGS – Dawn Marie LaManda, 60 of Saratoga Springs, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, November 1, 2024.

Dawn, born on March 6, 1964 was a beloved mother, partner, and friend who touched the lives of many during her time with us. She is predeceased by her father, Joseph LaManda, her uncle John LaManda, and her cherished best friend, Laura, who was like family.

Dawn leaves behind her devoted partner, Philip R. Underwood; her loving daughter, Angelene Dugan; and her son, Jesse Ray Underwood. She was a proud grandmother to four beautiful grandchildren: Giavanna, Angela, Autumn, and Hunter. Dawn is also survived by her mother, Carol Livingston, her sisters Tara Livingston-Beaugy and Catherine Port, as well as several cousins and numerous friends who admired her free spirit.

A true gypsy at heart, Dawn spent most of her life in the Saratoga Springs area, where she will be remembered for her boundless love, creativity, and strength. She was an amazing writer and a passionate lover of music, finding joy in the melodies of Stevie Nicks, David Bowie, Prince, and Freddie Mercury from Queen. Despite facing challenges throughout her life, Dawn remained a strong and free-spirited woman.

Dawn’s battle with mental health was a difficult journey, and though she fought valiantly, her struggle has now come to an end. We take solace in knowing that her body, soul, and mind are at peace. 

Her legacy of love, strength, and creativity will continue to inspire all who knew her. Dawn will be deeply missed but forever remembered in our hearts.

A memorial service to celebrate Dawn’s life will be held from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Sunday, December 8, 2024 at the American Legion Post 574, 72 Pearl Street in Hudson Falls.

HUDSON FALLS – Rhonda Geertgens Barber, 69, passed away on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at Slate Valley Nursing Home, after a long illness.

Born on August 16, 1955, in Albany, she was the daughter of the late Paul and Arletta Geertgens.

Rhonda Graduated from Scotia-Glenville High School.  Following high school she furthered her education at Samaritan, earning her degree in nursing.

For over 10 years she served as an addiction counselor in the area and at Albany Medical Center in their NICU program.

She loved to cook and bake, fish and work on arts and crafts.  Rhonda was an avid NY Yankee Fan.  She especially loved her fur babies, her cats, Romeo, Charlie and Jimbo and her puppy Rocky.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her daughter, Brianna Rhodes.

She is survived by her husband of eight years, Martin Barber, III; her two children, Kyle (Rae) Geertgens and Hannah Rhodes; her grandchildren, Mackenzie, Karter, Matthew and Harper; her stepchildren, Kristen (Juan) Orozco and Martin Barber, IV; her step grandchild, Jackson.

Memorial donations in Rhonda’s memory may be sent to a local animal shelter or the American Cancer Society, 33 Elk St Suite 201, Albany, NY 12207.

KINGSBURY – William E. Marchese, 84. Our family sadly announces the passing of our husband and father, Bill Marchese, on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at home from complications of Parkinson’s and Heart Disease.

Born May 28, 1940, in Fort Edward, Bill was the son of the late Ann (Johnson) and Joe Marchese.

Bill was a member of the Hudson Falls High School class of 1957. He was an honorably discharged Army veteran, having served in Germany during his three-year tour of duty where he visited France, Austria and Switzerland.

He married Pauline Paradis in 1964. Sixty years later they still resided in the home in Kingsbury that he built with his own two hands. It is the home they raised their two children in, and the home where his wife Polly took wonderful care of him 24/7 for the past ten years so he didn’t have to leave it.

Bill was a member of the Sheet Metal Workers Union Local #83 for many years before retiring in 1998. He earned the rank of Nidan in Juko Kai and taught Karate at his own school in Kingsbury, along with his two children, who are also black belts.

He loved classic cars and was a proud member of the Memories on Wheels Car Club, past President of Sandy Hill Cruisers, owner of a 1952 Mercury, which he restored, and owner of a 1956 Buick hardtop, which, by the way, won two awards at Albany Rods and Customs Car show in Lake George.  Bill and his son Danny also spent ten years restoring Danny’s 1950 Mercury which Danny still owns to this day. Bill and Polly enjoyed many car club dances and Bill won many trophies for doing the “twist” hence his nickname “Mr. Twister”.

Bill worked hard, was kind, loved Lotto, scratch offs, and frequented local diners until his health no longer allowed.

Besides his parents, Bill was predeceased by his brother, Jim Marchese and his wife Joan, his brother-in-law Jim Paradis and wife Carol, and his beloved pugs, Gus, Sadie and Cruiser.

Bill is survived by his wife, Polly, his daughter, Nicole Marchese, and son, Daniel Marchese. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Connie Chandler and her five daughters, Wendy (Bobby) Chesnut, Becky Reynolds, Terri (Tim) Larson, Amy Chandler, and Abby Chandler.

He was a guy that when asked “What do you want for your Birthday or Christmas?”. He always replied with, “just for my family to be together”.  Sometimes difficult to buy for… but words to live by. He will be greatly missed.

Calling hours will be held from 11 am to 1:30 pm on Friday November 1, 2024, at Carleton Funeral Home, 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls.

A graveside service will take place at St. Mary’s Cemetery in the town of Fort Edward following calling hours on Friday, November 1, 2024, at 2:00 pm.

GLENS FALLS – Lynn M. (Maturo) Borngesser, 73, of Stewart Avenue, passed away in the early morning hours of Friday, October 25, 2024, at Albany Medical Center with her loving family by her side.

Born on January 21, 1951, in Jersey City, New Jersey, she was the daughter of the late Dominick and Claire (Appel) Maturo.

Lynn graduated from North Bergen High School in North Bergen, New Jersey. She was employed at Pathmark Security in New Jersey for several years prior to their shut down.

She married Robert “Bob” Borngesser on September 21, 1986, at Lady of Fatima Church in North Bergen New Jersey.

Every summer, as a child, Lynn and her family vacationed in the Lake George area. After Lynn and Bob married, they continued the family tradition of vacationing in Lake George. In 2001, Lynn and Bob moved their family to upstate New York so they could be close to Lake George.

Lynn loved watching Hallmark movies, especially when the Christmas movies began. She will be remembered for her enormous heart and the love she had for her family and friends, and her gift of continuous “gabbing”. Lynn loved to talk, make you laugh, and sometimes make you cry. She will also be remembered for her delicious Christmas cookies.

In addition to her parents, Lynn is predeceased by her husband, Robert Borngesser and her brother, Tom Maturo.

Survivors include her daughters, Jillian Gonzalez and her companion, Junior Flores, and Kaitlin Borngesser, her grandsons, Isaiah Borngesser, Hector Gonzalez, and Joseph Gonzalez.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, November 2, 2024, from 3 pm to 6 pm at Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls.

A funeral service will take place immediately following calling hours at 6 pm at the funeral home.

A graveside service will take place on Monday, November 4, 2024, at the Gerald BH Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Road in the town of Stillwater.

Memorial donations in Lynn’s name may be made to the Fort Ann Rescue Squad, PO Box 237, 11287 NY-149, Fort Ann, NY 12827.

HUDSON FALLS – Robert K. Bradway, Jr., 77 of Hudson Falls, passed away peacefully on Monday afternoon, October 21, 2024 at home surrounded by his family.

Born on May 31, 1947 in Glens Falls, he was the son of the late Robert Kenneth Bradway, Sr. and the late Louella Margaret (Winslow) Bradway of Lake George. Robert was a 1967 graduate of Lake George Central School. In 1968 he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving his country in the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged in 1971.

Robert married his high school sweetheart, Jane E. Finkle, on April 27, 1968 and they have enjoyed over 56

 years of marriage and companionship. Robert worked for the Patrician Paper Mill in South Glens Falls for 41 years before retiring.  

Robert enjoyed running and ran many marathons over the years. He loved to play guitar, bowl and play golf but was his grandkids’ biggest fan when watching them play their sports. He volunteered as a coach for his daughters’ sports teams when they were in school and was an avid and dedicated fan of the New York Yankees, the Boston Celtics, and the New York Giants.

In addition to his parents, Robert is predeceased by a sister-in-law, Bonnie Holz.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Jane Bradway; his four daughters, Lisa (Donald) Kirchner of Massachusetts, Jennifer (Douglas) Dreyer of Poughkeepsie, NY, Nicole (Jeffrey) Willis of Gansevoort, NY, and Kathleen (Jason) Zeno of Hudson Falls; eleven grandchildren, Colby and Connor Kirchner, Derek and Allyson Dreyer, Jordan (Chloe), Lauren, Jillian and Lillian Willis, Jonathan, Abigail and Morgan Zeno; his brothers, Richard Bradway of Fort Ann and Barry Bradway of Athol; two sisters -in-law, Sandra (Steven) Sweet of Lake George, and Priscilla (Wayne) Seguin of Massena, NY; and a brother-in-law, Bernard Holz of Hudson Falls.

A graveside service with military honors will be held at 10:30 am on Friday, October 25 2024 at the Gerald BH Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Duell Road in Schuylerville.

Memorial donations may be made in his name to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741, or to High Peaks Hospice, 1247 Dix Avenue, Hudson Falls, NY 12839.

HUDSON FALLS – Carmela Mannino, 64 of Hudson Falls, passed away peacefully Tuesday evening, October 15, 2024 at Glens Falls Hospital.

Born on March 25, 1960 in Queens, NY, she was the daughter of Rosalie (Giordano) Mannino and the late Anthony Mannino.

Carmela loved spending time with her family and very much enjoyed the companionship of her dog, Lucy. She also loved doing jigsaw puzzles, coloring, watching movies, cooking and decorating for the holidays.

In addition to her father, she is predeceased by a sister, Mary Mannino.

She is survived by her mother, Rosalie Mannino; her children, Mario, Rosa, and Gabriella; and her brother, Anthony Mannino.

Friends may call from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm on Wednesday, October 23, 2024 at the Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls. A funeral service will follow at 2:00 pm.

SOUTH GLENS FALLS – Raymond A. Gregory, 82, of South Glens Falls, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, after a long illness, at his home with his wife by his side.

Born on March 13, 1942, in Hudson Falls, he was the son of the late Harold and Mildred (Deyette) Gregory.

On December 30, 1997, he married Linda Lamb in Hudson Falls.

Ray was a well-known dart player and ranked as one of the top players in the area.  He won many tournaments and received many trophies. Ray always looked forward to his weekly visit from Munson, a sweet lovable Labrador Retriever, who put a big smile on his face.

Ray was self-employed as an asphalt paver and installed driveways and parking lots with his sons Richard and Stephen.  Ray also worked for over 20 years as a heavy equipment operator for the New York State DOT and other municipalities in the area before his illness.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his siblings, Richard Gregory, Doris Costazo, Shirley Ball, Beatrice Plude, Joyce Hammond, and Marvin Gregory.

He is survived by his loving wife of 26 years, Linda Gregory, his children Cheryl (Husband Fran) LeVasseur, Richard Gregory, Stephen Gregory (Wife Rebecca) and Angela Lamb, his grandchildren Ryan Gregory, Faith LeVasseur, Richie Gregory, Noah Brumagan, Seth Gregory, and Alden Gregory; his great grandchildren Jaiden Gregory, Isabella LeVasseur, and Ivy Lee Brumagan, along with several nieces, nephews, cousins, and longtime friend Cal Durham.

Ray’s family would like to thank the kind, dedicated people in Ray and Linda’s life who helped with countless hours of care and support over the past years with his illness to include Julie Carter (Aunt), Fort Hudson Home Healthcare, Beth Bruno, RN, and his Personal Care Aides Valerie Arbuckle, Deborah Tirri, and Debbie Anderson, Hospice of Saratoga County, Vicki Goodspeed, RN, and Shawn Campanie, NP.  

Viewing will be held from 12pm to 1pm, on Monday, October 21, 2024, followed by The Rite of Committal at St. Mary’s Cemetery in the town of Fort Edward.

Memorial donations may be sent to the Alzheimer’s Association, 1003 Loudon Rd, Cohoes, NY 12047.

HUDSON FALLS – Jeremy Joseph Kelley, 43, of Hudson Falls, passed away unexpectedly on Friday October 11, 2024, following a short illness.

Born July 20, 1981, in Attleboro Massachusetts, he was the son of Howard C. and Karen L (LaCarte) Kelley, Sr. of Hudson Falls.

Jeremy attended Whitehall Central and Hudson Falls High Schools. He was employed at I Love NY Pizza as a cook. Prior to working at I Love NY Pizza, he worked at Brooklyn Pizza as a cook where he loved making spaghetti and meatball dinners for his grandma Kelley.

Throughout his short life, Jeremy loved to fish. Some of his favorite places to fish were Lake Champlain, Putts Pond, and Lock 7 in Fort Edward. On occasion, Jeremy also loved to golf. Growing up, Jeremy was a New York Giants fan. Following a bet with his best friend, Drew, he quickly became a diehard Dallas Cowboys fan. Most importantly, he loved spending time with his older brother, JR (Howard).

Jeremy is predeceased by his sister, Angela Kelley, his brother, Richard “Ricky” Kelley, and his uncle, Darrin Kelley.

Survivors include his loving parents, Howard and Karen Kelley of Hudson Falls, his brother, Howard Kelley, Jr. (Val) of Queensbury, his aunts Kathy Kelly-Sweet (Brook Waters) of Hudson Falls, Marva LaCarte-Foster of Arizona; his sons, Maxwell and Dakota of Whitehall; four grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Jeremy will also be missed by his best friend, Drew McDonald, his friends at I Love NY Pizza, and his special cousins, Lucy, Dina, Chuck, and little Darrin.

At this time there are no services scheduled.

QUEENSBURY – Jacqueline “Jackie” Marie (Sumner) Trackey, 76, of Queensbury, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, surrounded by her loving family, following a brief but courageous battle with COVID and pneumonia.

Born on November 19, 1947, in Saratoga, Jackie was the beloved daughter of the late Roland and Eleanor “Peggy” (Kendall) Sumner. She grew up in Fort Edward and was a proud graduate of Hudson Falls High School.

On July 2, 1967, Jackie married the love of her life, Ronald Trackey, beginning a beautiful journey together that spanned 57 wonderful years. Their bond, built on love, happiness, and companionship, was one of the true joys of her life. He was her soul mate.

Jackie had a long and fulfilling career as a dedicated Property Manager for over 30 years and finished her career at the Club at Lac de Ville in Rochester. Through her kindness and hard work, she earned the respect, admiration and friendship of her colleagues and residents alike.

Outside of work, Jackie’s heart was happiest when she was surrounded by family, friends and enjoying the beauty of nature. She cherished family and friend vacations, most adored Aruba beaches, treasured quiet moments by Canandaigua Lake and visiting beautiful Massachusetts. Jackie was a natural caretaker, volunteering with hospice in the Rochester area and selflessly caring for her own parents and in-laws during their illnesses. Her compassion, strength and giving knew no bounds.

She found joy in life’s simple pleasures, from walks in the park and her husband Ron and her beloved dog Lexi, to listening to music. Above all else, Jackie’s greatest love was her family and the friendships that she had made over the many years. Her unconditional love and devotion to her husband, children, and grandchildren were the pillars of her life. Jackie was known as Nana to so many, never missed a birthday or holiday and extended a love that filled so countless hearts. Jackie’s gentle spirit, kindness, generosity, and constant smile left an indelible mark on all who knew her.

In addition to her parents, Jackie was predeceased by her brother, Ernie Sumner.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Ronald Trackey of Queensbury, her children, Ron Trackey (Angela) of Massachusetts and Stacy Trackey Meagher (Christian Kalinowski) of Illinois; her adored grandchildren, Gavin Trackey, Connor Meagher, Gillian Trackey, Aiden Meagher, and Adam Trackey; her sister, Sharon Rourke of Queensbury, her brother, Bill Sumner (Kandee) of Argyle, and many cherished in-laws, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

At Jackie’s request, there will be no calling hours.

A funeral mass will be held on Friday, October 18, 2024, at 11 a.m. at Our Lady of Annunciation, 448 Aviation Road in Queensbury, with Father Joe Busch officiating.

A Celebration of Life will begin at 1pm at Morgan and Co Restaurant, located at 65 Ridge Street in Glens Falls.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Jackie’s name may be made to the Alzheimer’s Disease Association, 1003 Loudon Rd, Cohoes, NY 12047, or to the American Lung Association of New York, 21 West 38th Street 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10018.