Category Archives: Obituaries

QUEENSBURY – Albert Keith Allen, 68, of Queensbury, passed away on Thursday, April 11, 2024, at Glens Falls Hospital following a long illness. He was surrounded by four of his daughters.

Born October 3, 1955, in Corinth, Al was the son of the late Edward and Florence (Bosford) Allen.

Al attended Hadley Luzerne High School. Following high school, he enlisted in the United States Army in 1972 and was honorably discharged in 1974.

He married his beloved wife Patricia (Dickson) Allen on February 28, 2012, at a small ceremony in Moreau surrounded by their loving family.

For many years Al was a Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing Technician working for local businesses in Warren County. Prior to retiring, Al worked for JE Sawyer and Company in Glens Falls.

Al was an avid hunter for many years. He loved four-wheeling, fishing, hanging out with his friends, and enjoying an ice-cold Busch Light. Most of all, he loved spending time with all his children and grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Al is predeceased by his brother, Arnold Allen.

Survivors include his loving wife, Patrica Allen; his daughters, Katrina Allen, Tanya Allen (Mike), Veronica Allen, Rebecca Kennett (John), Tanya Hauver (Brian), and Melissa Wisneski (Eric); his grandchildren, Haiden, Tyrone, Logan, Trinity, Lukas, Mikka, Faith, Dante, Ashton, Kalysa, Veera, Josh, Ashley, Cameron, Preston, Kolson, Kristopher, Nicholas, and Benjamin; his step-children, Jason Duers (Kayla) and his children, Torie Coon (Jerry) and her children and Hope StFleur and her children along with four great grandchildren. Al is also survived by his brothers, Darrell Allen, Edward Allen, Eric Allen, and Craig Allen; his sisters, Dawn Sweenor and Candie Robarge. Last but of course not least, Al is survived by his loving and faithful fur-babies, Lily, and Milo.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, April 20, 2024, 11 am to 1 pm at Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., located at 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls.

A funeral service will be conducted at 1 pm on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at the funeral home immediately following calling hours.

Rite of Committal will take place Saturday, April 20, 2024, at 2 pm at St. Mary’s Cemetery on Burgoyne Avenue in the Town of Fort Edward. Memorial donations in Al’s name may be made to Wounded Warrior Project or the local SPCA.

HUDSON FALLS – Mary L. (Rodd) Jenkins, 73, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, following a long illness.

Born July 21, 1950, in Whitehall, Mary attended St. Mary’s Academy in Hudson Falls. She married Roger Jenkins at their home in the summer of 1986 during an outdoor ceremony.

Mary loved the movie Saturday Night Fever and would watch it over and over. Her daughter, Theresa, has fond memories of watching her mom dance to her favorite songs playing on the television or radio. Mary grew up around animals and had two horses that she loved dearly, Brown Sugar and Cotton Tail. She also gave her children goats for Easter one year. Prior to falling ill, Mary spent many hours in her flower gardens. She enjoyed being in the kitchen, cooking and putting together puzzles.

She is predeceased by her grandson, James Skyler Vizcaya.

She is survived by her husband, Roger Jenkins; her children, Brian Legault, Theresa LeGault, and Wayne Jenkins; grandchildren, Daniel A. Legault, Zachary, Justin, and Spencer Williams; her great granddaughter Sparrow Legault and great-grandson, Oliver Williams.

Services are private at the convenience of the family.

Memorial contributions may be made in her name to the Fort Edward Rescue Squad, 75 Schuyler St, Fort Edward, NY 12828.

GLENS FALLS – David C. McKinney, 87, passed away peacefully, following a short illness on Saturday, March 30, 2024, at the home of his daughter, Anne, in South Glens Falls where he was surrounded by his loving family.

Born October 13, 1936, in Glens Falls, David was the son of the late Alvin and Elizabeth (Maileff) McKinney.

Following the unfortunate passing of his mother, David, his father, and two brothers were graciously  helped by Lucille Parsons, a family friend. Lucy was a very special woman who had also cared for Dave’s mother during her illness up to her passing. She continued to care for his family, as well as her husband and two sons. Eventually the two families moved to a bigger home that they shared for many years.

From an early age David was a hard worker. Growing up he had two paper routes delivering newspapers before and after school to earn money. As a teenager, he was a caddy at the Glens Falls Country Club. Hence, his love for golf began.

David was a 1954 graduate of Glens Falls High School. While in school, he participated in basketball, football, cross country, and held the record for running the fastest mile in track.

He married the love of his life, Joan Marie Shaw on August 2, 1958. They were blessed with four children, nine grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren (with two more expected in August 2024).

Dave held various jobs throughout his life and continued to work into his late 70’s. He was employed at Imperial, Millbrook Bread, owned the Yankee Doodle Lounge (1970’s), and then at ABC Restaurant Equipment for many years.

Over the years, David enjoyed celebrating holidays, birthdays, and other special occasions with his entire family. His favorite day of the year to celebrate was St. Patrick’s Day. He was proud to be Irish. Dave was an easy-going man. He loved to play golf and was a proud member of the Tee-Bird Golf Course, and the Queensbury Country Club. Dave wished he could have played one more round of golf with family and friends. He looked forward to the times he was able to go to Bella’s Sully’s East and Halftime Bar and Grill to socialize with his friends enjoying great conversations while sipping his favorite drink. You would most likely hear his favorite song, “Sweet Caroline,” playing on the jukebox when he was present.

Dave was an avid sports fan of the Washington Redskins (Commanders) and the Brooklyn (L.A.) Dodgers. He enjoyed watching baseball, football, and golf.

In addition to his parents, David is predeceased by the love of his life and mother to his children, Joan Marie (Shaw) McKinney; his grandson, David Joseph (DJ) Gorrie, and his brothers Robert A. McKinney (Marie McKinney), and Thomas M. McKinney.

Survivors include his children Stephen (Maureen) McKinney, Anne McKinney, Brian (Shelly) McKinney, and Karen (Rich) Lancette; his grandchildren, Brooke, Nick, Jason, Michael, Ryan, Brianna, Kristyn, and Megan; four great grandchildren, Blakely, Madison, Nolan, and Rowan; a sister in-law, Sally McKinney, several nieces, nephews, and many longtime friends. David is also survived by Gary Parsons and Dick Parsons whom he said were like brothers to him.

A heartfelt thank you to Karen Lancette for uprooting her life and leaving her family behind in Florida to assist Anne with caring for their father in his final days. One of David’s final wishes was to be in the care of his family and comfortable at home. Karen’s presence granted David’s final wish as she and Anne cared for their dad.

David’s family wishes to thank Community Hospice of Saratoga for their support during this difficult time, especially RNs, Jill Kostyk-Tedford, Linda, and Nancy.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, April 11, 2024, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at Carleton Funeral Home, Inc. at 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls.

A funeral service will be conducted at the funeral home immediately following calling hours at 1:00 pm with the Reverend Robert Powhida officiating.

Rite of Committal will take place at 2:00 pm on Thursday April 11, 2024, at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, 1208 Burgoyne Avenue in Fort Edward.

Memorial donations in David’s name may be made to the Community Hospice of Saratoga, 179 Lawrence Street, Saratoga Springs, New York 12866.

QUEENSBURY – Carol Cassant Daly, 80, of Queensbury, passed away Tuesday, April 2, 2024, at Glens Falls Hospital.

Born on March 16, 1944, in Queensbury, NY, to the late Bernard and Josephine (White) Cassant.  She was married to John Daly in November 1964, and widowed in May 2008, after 44 years.  Carol and John were the parents of two sons, John and Ron, and opened their home to a nephew and niece, Ken and Kelly, and raised them as their own. 

Carol enjoyed ceramics, crafting, baking, and especially a good book at camp on the Hudson River.  She suffered a massive stroke in 2012, but with hard work, determination, a positive attitude and sense of humor, she was able to remain in her own home until the time of her passing.

Carol is survived by her children:  John (Debbie), Ron (Kim), Ken (Lynda) and Kelly (Doug); 9 grandchildren: Kourtney (Justin), Ronald Jr., Kristin (Kevin) Royce, Karly (Tyler) Calzada, Laura (Ben) Gerrer, Ronald, Noel, Autumn and Jonathan (Ashley) Moon; and 3 great-grandsons.  Along with her brother Ken (Dianne) Cassant; special friend Mike Elmore; several nieces and nephews; and her adopted kitty Clancy.

In addition to her parents and husband, Carol was predeceased by a sister, Shirley Younes, and brother, John Cassant.

Friends may call from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm on Tuesday, April 9, 2024 at the Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls where a funeral service will be held at 1:00 pm at the funeral home. Burial will follow at St. Alphonsus Cemetery in Queensbury.

Memorial donations may be made in her name to Meals on Wheels America, P.O. Box 791568, Baltimore, MD 21279-1568.

FORT EDWARD – Lawrence D. LaPlanche, Sr, 76 of Fort Edward, passed away Friday, December 22, 2023 at Glens Falls Hospital after a brief illness.

Born on March 9, 1947 in Glens Falls, he lived in the area his entire life and was the son of the late Bernice (Fuller) and Ernest LaPlanche, Sr. Lawrence attended school in South Glens Falls and enlisted in the military, only to be medically discharged from boot camp early on.

Lawrence was a carpenter and woodworker for many years. Prior to his retirement, he drove a bulk mail truck for 15 years for several municipal Post Offices in Washington County. Lawrence was a talented mechanic in his earlier years and was always fixing something. He loved to cook for friends at some of the local bars and he was a life-long fisherman. Lawrence had a giving spirit and often made donations to St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital.

In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by a sister, Karen Loveland; and three brothers, Joe, Frank, and Terry LaPlanche.

He is survived by his son, Lawrence D. LaPlanche, Jr. and his fiancé, Danielle Abbenante; a brother, Ernest LaPlanche, Jr.; and several cousins, nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at the convenience of the family at Southside Cemetery in South Glens Falls at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

HUDSON FALLS – Clifford “Bud” Hammond, 98, of Hudson Falls, went into the arms of the Lord on Saturday, March 30, 2024, at the Granville Center.

Born on November 28, 1925, in Kingsbury, he was the son of the late Clarence and Viola (Parker) Hammond.

Bud served in the United States Army from December 1, 1945, to July 1, 1946.

He owned and operated Hammonds TV in Glens Falls and worked for Chase Bag for many years.

Bud enjoyed tinkering with all types of electronics, many he acquired by going to garage sales.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife, Sharron Hammond, his longtime companion Ernesta Phillips, his grandson, Taylor Thomas Mikus, several brothers and sisters and his daughter in law, Lorraine Hammond and his sons in law, Jeffrey Park and Frederick Foster.

He is survived by his seven children, Mary (Ricardo) Bentanzos of Glens Falls, Edward (Roberta) Hammond of Fultonville, Joann Park of Glens Falls, David (Ela) Hammond of Glens Falls, John (Sandi) Hammond of Argyle, Catherine Foster of Hudson Falls and Penny (Chris) Kilmartin of Glens Falls; several grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren; several brothers and sisters; all the Phillips family; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Calling hours will be on Friday, April 5, 2024, from 11 to 1 p.m. at the Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls.

Burial with military honors will follow the calling hours on Friday, at Moss Street Cemetery in the town of Kingsbury.

Memorial donations may be sent to the charity of your choice.

HUDSON FALLS – Cheryl D. (Hallenbeck) Ash, 77, of Hudson Falls and Argyle, passed away peacefully, following a long illness on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at the Washington Center in Argyle with her family by her side.

Born July 7, 1946, in Schenectady, she was the daughter of the late Clarence and Bertha (LaFountaine) Hallenbeck.

Cheryl was a graduate of Hudson Falls High School.

Following graduation, she enlisted in the United States Navy and served until her honorable discharge in 1969. Her last assignment with the Navy was at the Naval War College in Newport Rhode Island.

She was employed for many years as a legal secretary for McPhillips, Fitzgerald, Myers, & McLenithan Law Associates at their Hudson Falls office. Cheryl also worked for Reality USA in Saratoga Springs as a licensed salesperson.

While visiting friends in Delaware, Cheryl married the love of her life, Rodger Ash. Upon returning to Hudson Falls, the newlyweds found out Cheryl’s mother arranged for Rodger and Cheryl to say their vows at St. Mary’s/St. Paul’s McManus Hall.

Following her retirement, Cheryl was a dedicated volunteer for RSVP (Retired Senior Volunteer Program) driving people to their medical appointments, and, with VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) filing taxes for those in need.

Cheryl was an avid reader and loved mystery novels. She enjoyed crossword puzzles, making jewelry, and was always trying to knit. She loved being on the water. It didn’t matter if it was a canal, lake, ocean, or river, she always found peace. She enjoyed spending time on her “party boat” (pontoon boat) cruising up and down the canal. During election time, you could always find Cheryl at the Argyle Firehouse performing her duty as a Poll Worker. Most of all, Cheryl absolutely adored and loved her grandchildren. She could never get enough time with them.

In addition to her parents, Cheryl is predeceased by her husband, Rodger; her brother, Charles “Chuck” Hallenbeck; and Rodger’s son, Scott Ash.

Survivors include her loving son, Todd Simpson (Stephannie Siwik-Simpson) of Argyle; her grandsons, Darien, and Fraser Siwik-Simpson of Argyle; her brother, Kurt Hallenbeck (Kathleen) of Hudson Falls; and her partner in crime, and longtime best friend, Carol Mullen of Hudson Falls.

Cheryl is also survived by her niece Dawn Hallenbeck of Florida, and nephews, Keene Hallenbeck (Ria) and their children of Florida, and Joshua Hallenbeck (Paula) and children of Argyle. Cheryl is also survived by Rodger’s children and grandchildren whom she loved like her own. They include Tracy Dunphy (Bill) and children of Greenwich, Jeff Ash and his children of Argyle, Sue Berg, and Sharon Ash, both of Greenwich.

Cheryl’s family would like to thank Carol Mullen for the care, compassion, and unconditional love she provided to Cheryl and her family throughout the years. The many trips to dialysis for treatment, countless hours spent with Cheryl while she was in the hospital, the bottomless cookie jar, and dedication to Cheryl will always be gratefully appreciated.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, March 30, 2024, from 2 pm to 4 pm at Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls.

A funeral service will be held at 4 pm on Saturday, March 30, 2024, at the funeral home immediately following calling hours.

Rite of Committal will take place in the future at the Greenwich Cemetery where Cheryl will be laid to rest next to her husband at a private service.

Donations in Cheryl’s name may be made to the Argyle Rescue Squad, 5 Sheridan Street, Argyle, NY 12809.

CAMBRIDGE – Nickalas Scott Connor, 31 of Cambridge, passed away on Friday, March 21, 2024. Born on March 8, 1991 in Glens Falls, he was a life long area resident.

Nickalas worked for many years in construction at Bonacio Construction in Saratoga Springs. He was a Black Belt in Combat Hapkido Martial Arts and enjoyed lifting weights to stay fit.

Nickalas is predeceased by his mother, Linda (Stoff) Connor.

He is survived by his father, Enoch Santabar-Connor and his wife, Lisa; his son; and his 7 brothers and sisters.

Funeral services are private at the convenience of the family.

HUDSON FALLS – Robert “Bob” Joseph La Pointe, cherished husband, father, and poppy, 79, of Hudson Falls, passed away Friday, March 15, 2024, following a short illness.

Born May 29, 1944, at Glens Falls Hospital, he was the son of the late Paul Arthur and Helen (Vitouski) La Pointe.  

Bob had a life richly lived marked by dedication, resilience, and an unwavering love for his family. He was a man of many talents, with a heart as open and welcoming as the great outdoors he so dearly loved. His life was a testament to the values of hard work, creativity, and the simple joys that life offers. Bob was a man who could never sit still for long, always finding a new project to embark on, or an adventure around his property or workshop to pursue. He was a skilled craftsman who was known for his unmatched ingenuity in woodworking, metalworking, or just finding a fix for something that seemed impossible. Bob’s ingenuity knew no bounds, and he was always ready to lend his skills to those in need.

Outside of his workshop, Bob was an avid fisherman, finding solace in the quiet waters of New York’s Lakes. He was the owner of The Old Troller Sport Fishing Charters on Lake George and was highly regarded as an expert fishing guide often seen catching near record size Lake Trout and Salmon with the biggest smile on his face. He especially enjoyed being on the boat pulling wire for Lake Trout. His most heartfelt moments on the water were those spent with his family by his side.

Bob was also a talented guitar player, filling his home with music and laughter, and an unwavering fan of the New York Yankees. He never missed a Yankee game, with his wife by his side, celebrating their victories with the same passion he devoted to every aspect of his life. Bob’s love for cutting and splitting wood was more than a chore; it was a ritual deep in his soul that connected him to the earth and the cycles of nature. He especially enjoyed using his vast collection of chain saws and his Yanmar Tractor in this process.

In addition to his creative pursuits, Bob was an avid motorcycle enthusiast, from the dirt to the road, relishing the freedom and excitement of riding through New York’s picturesque landscapes. Bob’s greatest love, however, was for his family.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Paul Arthur and Helen (Vitouski) La Pointe.

Bob leaves behind his beloved wife “his Sweety”, the love of his life, together 62 years, married 56 years, Luella (Uhlinger) “Mimi” La Pointe, his partner in every aspect of life’s journey. “Mimi’s” infamous chocolate chip cookies, homemade cakes, and apple pies kept Bob’s sweet tooth always well satisfied. Together, they created a home filled with love.

He was a loving father to his two children, Cheryl Wilson (Ray), Bob La Pointe, Jr (Kim Martin); a doting grandfather, and Poppy, to his five grandchildren Andrew Arnold, Gillian Wilson, Avery La Pointe, Logan Wilson, and Hanna La Pointe. Bob is also survived by his sisters-in-law Laura Wilder and Patricia Walkup.

Bob’s life was a journey of passion, from the tranquility of fishing, the joy of music, The thrill of baseball, to the satisfaction of creating with his hands. He taught us the value of patience, the importance of doing things right, and the belief you can accomplish anything you set your mind to. He will be deeply missed but remembered forever as a guiding light and a source of unconditional love.

Bob’s family invites all who knew and loved him to join them in remembering a man whose legacy of love, creativity, and adventure will forever be cherished.

Calling hours will be held on Monday, March 25, 2024, from 4pm to 7pm, at Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls.

A funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at 11:00 am at St. Mary’s/St. Paul Church, 11 Wall Street in Hudson Falls.

Rite of committal will take place at a date to be announced.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob’s name may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

GLENS FALLS – Bernard “Bernie” Leonka, 88, formerly of Glens Falls, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 17, 2024, at the Washington Center in Argyle, with his family by his side.

Born on April 4, 1935, in Schenectady, he was the only child of the late August J. and Philomena L. (Benacquista) Leonka.

Bernie was a graduate of Knott Terrace High School, formerly in Schenectady and then continued his education taking classes toward earning a degree in Physical Therapy.

Following college, he joined the United States Army. Bernie was proud to have served his country.  After his honorable discharge in January 1957, Bernie began his long and diverse work history.

After 32 years of working for General Electric in Fort Edward, he retired as business manager. While employed at GE, Bernie held a second job as a bartender for over 20 years. He loved tending bar at the Saratoga Flat Track but even better at the Saratoga Harness Track. It was the perfect job for Bernie, he could watch the horses and place his bets. His final and favorite job for over 12 years was driving the school bus for Abraham Wing School. Bernie cherished the many field trips and the responsibility he had for making sure the kids were safe.

He was an avid Yankee and Giants fan. For many years, Bernie took his kids to the Giants training camp to watch his favorite team get ready for the season. He also followed the Duke Basketball team, always rooting for them to win. 

For several years, Bernie coached little league while his younger son, Greg was on the team. He also had fond memories of spending many summers camping with his family in Maine.

Survivors include his four children, Christopher (Michele) Leonka of Queensbury, Lisa Leonka of Troy, Bernice (John) Cote of Glens Falls, and Gregg (Billi Jo) Leonka of NC; his grandchildren, Brendan Leonka, Brittany Nikas, Jessica Carey, Kaleigh Stoya, John Cote, and Abigail Leonka; his great grandchildren, Tenley and Macey Leonka, Calla and Burkley Nikas, John Carey and Wells Stoya.

Calling hours will be private.

The Rite of Committal will be Thursday, March 21, 2024, at 2:30 pm at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Road in Schuylerville.

Bernie’s family would like to thank the staff at the Washington Center in Argyle for the care and compassion they provided Bernie during his stay. A special thank you to the staff on the Hillview South Unit, the Activities Department, and Physical Therapy.

The family suggests that memorial donations be made to the Moreau Rescue Squad, 1583 US-9, Fort Edward, NY 12828.

HUDSON FALLS – Margaret A. Nims, 70 of Route 4, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 11, 2024, at the Glens Falls Hospital, after a long illness.

Born on January 4, 1954 in Canandaigua, she was the daughter of the late Robert and Dorothy (Smith) Kaveny, Sr.

Margaret graduated from Hudson Falls High School and continued her education at Adirondack Community College, where she received her Nursing Degree.   She enjoyed her job as a nurse, at the  Glens Falls Hospital and the Warren, Washington Association for Mental Health.

Margaret loved living on her farm where she boarded horses.  Through her talents, as a teacher and a rider, many young children were given the opportunity to learn horseback riding.   Horses were her love and it was so important to her that this was carried on through her grandchildren.  It was special to her that they learned to ride and felt the same love and enjoyment for horses. It was her legacy to pass this on.  Margaret spent many hours with her friend, Colleen O’Rourke, at the Pond Hill Ranch in Castleton, Vermont.

She loved taking long car rides, traveling with her family and friends to Maine and Cape Cod and spending time on her land in Kingsbury.  The holidays were always a special time of sharing stories and especially food with her family. 

Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her sister, Susan Kaveny.

Those she left behind, include her sons, Adam Nims and his wife, Jennifer of Hartford and Chad Nims of Queensbury; five grandchildren, Alondra, Karlee and Victoria Nims, Ava Nadeau and Lillyanna Nims, daughters of Trisha Sawyer; her brother, Robert L. Kaveny, Jr. and his wife, Marilyn of Florida.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, March 23, 2024 at Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls. Burial will follow in Kingsbury Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest next to her parents and sister.

Margaret’s family would like to extend their gratitude to the staff and doctors at the Glens Falls Center for the care she received as well as her close friends for helping with her care and needs through this difficult time.

Donations may be made in her memory to the SPCA of Upstate New York, 588 Queensbury Avenue, Queensbury, NY 12804.