Hall & Higgins Funeral Home Obituaries - Eulogy Assistant (2024)

Obituary Preview: Averill Park - On April 28, 2024, William Edward Lasch, 86, of Averill Park NY entered into eternal rest after a long illness in the care of the St. Peter’s Hospice unit in Albany, NY. William was born in Troy, NY to Hazel and Wilbur Lasch of Burden Lake, NY on March 11, 1938. He had two siblings, Richard and Nancy Lasch (both predeceased).

He attended Averill Park Schools and was dubbed Joe because so many other schoolmates were named William and went by the more common names of “Bill or Billy”.

Joe had a long career in the trades and started out at Faith Mills in Averill Park as a factory worker. He used to call the factory “Faith, Hope and Starve to Death”. Later he moved on to work at Paddock Pools and thoroughly enjoyed that position digging pools by hand and working sunup to sundown. Eventually however, he met the love of his life, Norma Rose Williams and they were married on June 13, 1959. He then traded in his favorite 57 Chevy to put a down payment on their first mobile home on Firetower Road in Stephentown, NY. During those early years, Joe worked for WT LaRose, Hoag’s Corners Lumber Company and later became employed as a subcontractor learning and becoming proficient in all trades such as plumbing, electrical wiring, carpentry, masonry.

All of his occupations prepared him with the knowhow and he was now able to execute his vision to build a brand new family homestead in 1971-1972. This local home held a special priority and place for he and his now growing family of three daughters, Linda Louise, and two twin daughters, Mary Ellen and Donna Jean. There were many special memories in the home, which in later years became affectionately referred to as “The Ranch,” as it was a 4-bedroom ranch with 2-car garage and room to expand beyond the first mobile home. Most happy memories were had at home where you could find Joe playing badminton in the evenings until the mosquitoes came out, and until you couldn’t see the birdie any longer. Also on any given weekend or evening Joe could be found outside splitting wood, repairing the family cars, playing croquet or jarts, or inside playing chinese checkers or reading the daily newspaper.

Joe and Norma had many RV camping trips to Fourth Lake to fish, Nickerson State Park in Cape Cod to bicycle and enjoy fresh seafood. They enjoyed antiquing and flea marketing and road trips to visit friends in Missouri, Arkansas and Ashville, North Carolina. Most recent trip was to Sarasota FL for a family visit.

Joe loved his Chevy cars and there was no other car model ever in the driveway. Jimmy Johnson was his favorite Nascar driver. Joe always would sport either a NY Mets, NY Jets or Boston Red Sox cap, his favorite. He was very resourceful and always finding new ways to utilize spare car parts or broken machinery and fixing things when most people would typically throw away and buy new. He could fix almost anything.

He loved God, his church, family and friends. He was always lending a helping hand to those in need and served as a trustee in the local church and helped with special projects. Joe was loyal, dedicated, dependable, protective and a good provider as well as likeable, easy going, unselfish, faithful and kind.

Joe is survived by his wife, Norma Lasch, his two daughters, Linda Speno of Ballston Lake, Mary Plekan and son-in-law Stephen Plekan of Averill Park. He was predeceased sadly by his youngest beloved daughter Donna Jean Culnan of West Sand Lake in November 2008. He is survived by eight grandchildren: Stephen Plekan, Jeffrey (Jaclyn Carrington) Plekan, David Gunderman, Rebecca (Kyle) Mahar, Colleen (Pete) Muraski, Thomas Culnan, Michaela Speno and Adam Speno and three great grandchildren, Emmalyn Plekan, Jacob Plekan, Claire Mahar and baby girl Muraski due in July 2024. Other family members include nephew Michael Lasch, and nieces Judy Buckbee and Susan Gonya.

Obituary Preview: Poestenkill - Beverly Ann Hoffman, 73, passed away on Thursday evening, April 18, 2024. Born in Albany on September 11, 1951, she was the daughter of the late James and Jennie Phibbs.

Beverly dedicated herself to her work at Legenbauer Gas and Oil in Averill Park for 25 years until her retirement. In her free time she enjoyed tending to her flower garden, taking care of the many horses she owned over the years, attending horse pull competitions, and spending time with her dogs and family.

Beverly is survived by her beloved husband of nearly 30 years, Gordon Hoffman, her daughters, Wendy DeRose and Renee Cardella, her step-sons, Gregory (Traci) Hoffman and Theodore (Jenn) Hoffman, her grandchildren; Nicholas DeRose, Courtney (Nate) Fish, Hailey Deitz, Gabrielle DeRose, Rachel DeRose, Camren Hoffman, Tyler Hoffman, and Katielynn Hoffman, her great-grandson Carsyn Fink, her siblings; William Phibbs, Ronald (Rita) Phibbs, Harry Phibbs, Patricia Robelotto, Ruth (Ronald) Armstrong, and by her beloved pet Maggie Mae. She was preceded in death by her parents, her great-grandson Spencer Fish, and her brothers, James and Robert Phibbs.

A graveside service will be held Saturday, April 27, 2024 at 11 AM at Berlin Community Cemetery, Berlin. Instead of traditional funeral attire, we request attendees to wear Carhartt brand or country casual clothing to celebrate Beverly's love for her home and hobbies.

Obituary Preview: Stephentown - Neil Ernest Krebs of Stephentown, NY passed away at the age of 90 on April 9, 2024 in North Greenbush, NY. Neil was born on October 20, 1933 in New York City to the late Harry and Ruth Krebs.

Neil's skill in mathematics led to him getting a bachelor's, master's and PhD in engineering from the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. After getting his master's degree, he served in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as a company commander of an engineering unit in South Korea in 1957 and 1958.

After returning home, Neil went on to a long career in both civil and mechanical engineering, working for the New York State Dept. of Transportation, General Electric, Sikorsky Aircraft and Kaman Aerospace. Neil married Isabel Cogan in 1970 and they had a son, John, in 1972. Neil lived in multiple towns in the Albany, NY suburbs before moving to Marion, MA and then Guilford, CT. Neil and Isabel retired in 1997 and moved to Stephentown to a farm that had been in Isabel's family for the past 260 years. Neil was known for his love of baseball and classical music and will be deeply missed by all those who knew him.

Neil was preceded in death by his wife Isabel and is survived by his son John, daughter-in-law Amy, and grandchildren Jacob and Sarina.

Neil did not want a funeral and requested that a celebration of life be held by his friends and family. The celebration is planned for July 21, 2024 at the family farm in Stephentown.

Obituary Preview: Stephentown – Laurette A. Desormeaux, 82, of Stephentown, passed away peacefully on Wednesday evening, March 27, 2024 after a courageous battle with cancer. Born in North Adams on February 12, 1942, she was the daughter of the late Adrien and Marguerite Fournier.

Laurette, along with her late husband Dave, founded and operated Dave’s Supermarket in Stephentown, which they ran together for 37 years. In her free time she loved spending time with family and friends. She never missed a family event, whether it was a game, concert, play, or awards ceremony. She was a bright spot in all of our lives and she will certainly be missed by many.

Laurette’s memory lives on in her three daughters, their husbands; and her eight grandchildren: Marie, Peter, Ryan, Christopher (Sydney), Matthew, and Douglas Andrews; Michelle, Stacy, Taylor, and Lauren Meyer; and Marlene, Chris, Jules, and Eliza Otto. She was preceded in death by her husband David Desormeaux, who passed away in 2022.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at Immaculate Conception Church in New Lebanon at 10 AM on Friday, April 5, 2024. Laurette’s remains will be laid to rest alongside her husband in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Stephentown after the Mass.

Obituary Preview: Hanco*ck - William Spaulding (Swanny), 61 years old of Hanco*ck, MA was called home Sunday March 24, 2024 after a brave battle with Pancreatic Cancer.

Will was born on September 17, 1962 in Brookline, MA to Warren and Salome (Stella) Spaulding. He was the youngest of 5 siblings. Will attended Waltham High School where he played football throughout his time there until his graduation in 1980. In 1982, Will met the love of his life, Gail. It was love at first sight. They finally married in 1991 and had 3 wonderful children.

For all his life, music was his passion. He provided security for many of his favorite bands and later in life he shared his talent for singing with the Rock Voices in Pittsfield, MA. Will excelled in sales and helping others, most recently at Ronnie’s in Adams, MA where he worked as the Service Manager.

Will was a man who was strongly convicted by his faith. He loved Jesus. He knew he was fully redeemed of his sins through the blood of Christ. He was never ashamed and always ready and willing to share his testimony and teach others about Jesus. Will continued to lead his house courageously until the day he went to be with the Lord.

Will is survived but his loving wife of 32 years Gail Spaulding of Hanco*ck, MA, his children; Samantha Wright and her husband Justin of McGuire AFB, NJ, Nicholas Spaulding and his fiancée Jesse Johnson of Lanesboro, MA, Emily Spaulding of Hanco*ck, MA and his six beautiful grandchildren: Gabriel, Logan, Parker, Jaiden, Micah and Joshua. He is also survived by his sister Susan McGuigan of Florida and a multitude of nieces, nephews, cousins, other extended family members and friends. He is predeceased by his mother and father, Warren and Salome Spaulding, his sisters Carolyn Doyle and Laura Yetman and his brother Peter Spaulding.

A service will be held Monday April 1, 2024 at 2pm at Community Bible Church in Williamstown, MA with a reception to follow.

Proverbs 3:5 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding”.

Obituary Preview: New Lebanon - Nancy W. (McClave) Zimmerman, 77, of New Lebanon, NY, died March 20, 2024, at Berkshire Medical Center following complications from a brain injury.

Nancy was born on July 7, 1946 in Yonkers, NY, to Rowland McClave, Jr. and Elizabeth W. McClave. Raised in Dobbs Ferry, NY, Nancy attended school there until her last two years of high school, which she spent at S Ford Manor, a private English school partly owned by her Aunt Lina. Upon her return to the United States she became a Medical-Surgical Technician at St. John’s Hospital in Yonkers.

After 10 years she moved to Stephentown, NY, where she met Bill Zimmerman, whom she married May 31, 1975. Nancy became a volunteer Emergency Medical Technician for the Lebanon Valley Protective Association for over 20 years, often on call 24-7, for many of those years serving as Captain of the Ambulance Squad. She also worked as the EMT at the Lebanon Valley Dragway for a number of years. Nancy loved the outdoors, summer, fall, gardening, her beloved dogs, and, of course, her family and friends.

Nancy is survived by her husband Bill, brother Rowland “Rik” (Bev) McClave of Stephentown, sister Kathie Gilman of Georgia, four nieces, two nephews, and nine grandnieces and grandnephews.

Obituary Preview: Stephentown - Isabel Joan Krebs of Stephentown, NY passed away at the age of 89 on March 13, 2024 in East Greenbush, NY. Isabel was born on March 19, 1934 in Davao City in the Philippines to Edwin and Helen Cogan who were British citizens.

In December of 1941, Isabel and her parents were captured by the Japanese Army and placed in the Santo Tomas Internment Camp in the Philippine capital of Manila. The family survived incredibly harsh conditions for over three years before being liberated by the U.S. Army in February of 1945. Afterwards, Isabel and her parents immigrated to the United States and settled in Chicago. Isabel attended Northwestern University and later the University of Chicago where she received a master’s degree in education. She went on to a long career in education — teaching english, social studies, and Latin.

Isabel married Neil Krebs in 1970 and gave birth to a son, John, in 1972. Isabel lived in multiple towns in the Albany, NY suburbs before moving to Marion, MA and then Guilford, CT where she retired from teaching in 1997. She then moved to Stephentown where she raised chickens, ducks, llamas, and alpacas on a farm that has been in her family for the past 260 years. Isabel was known for her kindness and love of animals and will be deeply missed by all those who knew her.

Isabel is survived by her husband Neil, her son John, daughter-in-law Amy, and grandchildren Jacob and Sarina. Isabel did not want a funeral and requested that a celebration of life be held by her friends and family. The celebration is planned for July 21, 2024 at the family farm in Stephentown.

Obituary Preview: STEPHENTOWN, NY - Jeanette (Jennie) O’Brien, 81, died on December 22, 2023. She was born in Flint, Michigan and was the daughter of the late Donald and Marion Robbins. Jennie was a medical lab technologist and worked for doctors offices in the Pittsfield, MA area. Following her retirement from the medical field she was an avid sewer and a volunteer for Meals on Wheels and Quilts for Kids.

She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and most recently a great-grandmother. She was the wife of the late Harold O’Brien; mother of Patrick (Aura) Whitman of Cheshire MA, Dawn (Vincent) Mancuso of Voorheesville, NY, Karen (Kim) Whitman of Longmont, CO and Delos (Zophia) Whitman of Brooklyn, NY. She was preceded in death by James Robbins Sr. She was a devoted grandmother to Christopher (Jillian) Mancuso, Renee’ (Anthony) Sanchez, Reva and Chloe Whitman, and Delos Rhodes Whitman and was a great-grandmother to Charles Mancuso and Vienna Sanchez.

There will be a service at Stephentown Federated Church, 1513 Garfield Road, on Saturday, December 30, 2023 at 1 pm.

Obituary Preview: Stephentown - Denis Joseph Murphy, 97, of Manhasset, Stephentown, and Saratoga Springs, NY, passed away surrounded by his loving family on November 29, 2023. Denis was born January 27, 1926 in Cappafaudeen, County Cork, Ireland. He was the oldest son of Nora (Tarrant) and Timothy Murphy.

Denis served with RAF in postwar Germany before emigrating to NYC in January 1950. He was a long-time resident of Manhasset, NY, before his recent move to Saratoga Springs, NY. He practiced law for over 60 years before retiring at age 90. He partnered with the late James Maloney and mentored many younger lawyers throughout his career. He also inspired his sons and grandsons to enter the field as well.

Husband, father, friend, Denis lived a full active life well into his 90’s. He was a brilliant trial attorney and for relaxation he cared for the land of his summer home in Stephentown. Denis was a devoted husband for over 66 years to the love of his life, Susan. They are a true love story.

Denis was active in the Corkmen’s Association, Pioneer Association, volunteered at St. Mary’s Church in Manhasset and was a devoted Catholic.

Denis’ humor, generosity, wisdom and warmth will be missed by his devoted children including James (H. Aldervan) Murphy, Noreen (Dave) Murphy, Timothy (Debbie) Murphy, and Patricia (Frank) Brady, as well as his grandchildren Vanessa, Caitlin, Ryan, Noreen, Matthew, Anne, Megan, Joseph, and great-grandson Gabriel.

Denis’ family would like to thank the exceptional caregivers of Saratoga Palliative Care Unit and Hospice staff.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, December 4, 2023 at 12:30 PM at St. Joseph’s Church, Stephentown, with burial to follow in St. Joseph’s Cemetery. All are invited to visit with Denis’ family before the service, from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM at the Hall and Higgins Funeral Home, Stephentown.

Obituary Preview: Canaan - It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Patricia Lee Overly, on November 24, 2023. Patricia was born in 1932 and raised in Queens, NY, the second of six children of Emma and Lawrence De LaRue.

Patricia left Richmond Hill school to pursue a position at AT&T until she met the man of her dreams, George T. Overly, Jr., who she married in 1952 at the height of the Korean War. In 1953 they were blessed with a son George T. Overly, III and a daughter Patricia Ann in 1956. Upon her husband’s return from Korea they moved to Canaan, NY in 1954 where she has lived to her last days.

Patricia is predeceased by her beloved husband, George, who passed in 1992, and she is survived by her son George (Angel), daughter Patricia Ann, four grandchildren; Peter Matthew Kane (Kathryn), Emmalee Olszewski, Cortney Hagerty (George) and Zachary Kane, and three great-grandchildren; Noah and Brady Olszewski and Hadley Hagerty, and by her sister Virginia McDonagh. Patricia’s loving husband and her four siblings; Marjorie Jamieson, Lorraine Taber, Joan Bascom and Lawrence DeLaRue, are all waiting in heaven with open arms to be together again.

Obituary Preview: New Lebanon - Scott A. Larabee, 53 of New Lebanon, NY died November 22, 2023 peacefully at home after a valiant battle with Glioblastoma Multiforme.

Scott was born in Pittsfield MA on June 1, 1970 to Malcolm and Susan (Miller) Larabee. He was a graduate of St Joseph’s High School in Pittsfield, MA, and was a lifelong employee of the family business, Larabee Fuel Company in New Lebanon.

He served his community in many ways. He was a certified EMT in his younger years, and volunteered his time to the local ambulance squad. Scott also served on the town Recreation Committee, and brought back the ice skating rink and community picnic to the park. He loved helping others, and was a loyal supporter of local food banks, heating and energy assistance programs, and sponsored local youth and families at Christmas. Throughout his battle, his positive outlook, sense of humor, and true character remained strong. He never missed an opportunity to “rib” family and friends.

Scott loved spending time at his camp, and made many friends along the way. He particularly loved the community breakfasts where he proudly contributed food and his cooking skills. He loved the holidays, and always cooked and hosted Thanksgiving dinner for his family. After his diagnosis, he watched a Christmas movie every day, stating that Christmas should be enjoyed all of the time. Amish Country in Pennsylvania was his favorite travel destination for family vacations, and always hoped to relocate there someday.

Scott had a mechanical and curious mind, and could fix just about anything from a very young age. Family members would often show up with broken clocks, and other gadgets that Scott would meticulously take apart and repair. He built many computers over the years, as he proclaimed the earlier market hard drives as “junk”. He was valued for his ability to provide feedback to many oil burner and parts companies. He was the first to be called when something needed fixing.

Scott is predeceased by his paternal grandparents Arthur and Phyllis Larabee, and his maternal grandparents George and Helen Miller. He is also predeceased by his brother Matthew.

He is survived by his parents, sister Sena Larabee, wife April Larabee, son Markos Larabee (fiancée Amber Furtado), daughter Stacey Larabee (partner Matthew Tietgens), and his beloved grandchildren Logan and Luna, who were the light of his life. He also leaves behind several extended family members, loyal employees, and cherished friends.

Per Scott’s wishes, there will be no formal services. A celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Donations in his memory made be made to Charlie’s Pantry, 732 US Route 20, New Lebanon, NY 12125.

Obituary Preview: Stephentown - It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Everett Daniel Madden, 81, who passed in the comfort of his home on November 19, 2023 with his family and his wife of 42 years, Tammy, by his side. Everett was born May 9, 1942 to Lawrence & Betsey (Swarthout) Madden.

A lifelong resident and current Town Councilman of Stephentown, Everett grew up on the family farm that his grandparents established on Madden Road. After graduating from Berlin Central School in 1960, Everett worked at Fuller Brush Company and sold encyclopedias to put himself through college at State University College at Buffalo. After obtaining a bachelor’s degree in education, he taught industrial arts at Lansingburgh High School. In his younger years, Everett enjoyed operating ham radios and was a member of the Northern Berkshire Amateur Radio Club. He also flew with the North Adams Flying Club until 1977.

In 1974, Everett opened Madden’s Corner Shell, later known as Madden’s Service Center where he served the community for 44 years before retiring in 2018. As a businessman Everett greeted everyone with a “Howdy”. He was selfless, humble, and well respected. He loved the challenge behind repairing cars and the art of untangling wrecks with the tow truck.

Everett found great joy in gardening, canning, making cider and wine, hunting, and fishing. He enjoyed a yearly hunting trip to the Straight Run camp in PA with the guys. He was an avid reader and knew a little bit about everything and could fix most anything. He had many unique sayings that his family calls “Evy-isms” and he could tell a story like none other. The town of Stephentown has lost a pillar in the community.

Everett was predeceased by his parents and his brother Henry Madden. He is survived by his wife Tammy, his children Heather (Jim) Klauck, Eric (Jayme) Madden, Danielle (Jeremiah) Hughes, and Cynthia (Michael) Carter; and his five grandchildren, Olivia, Christopher, Daniel, Makayla, and Mason. In addition, he is survived by his mother-in-law Caroline White, several brothers-in-law, and sisters-in-law as well as many nieces and nephews.

Obituary Preview: Cherry Plain – Joseph A. Slaver, 86, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday October 14, 2023 at Albany Medical Center after a brief illness. Joe was born in Albany, NY on June 10, 1937 to the late William and Nettie Slaver.

He was educated in the Albany Public Schools and later was drafted in the United States Army in 1960 and honorably discharged 6 years later. Joe often commented about “just missing” Elvis as he was going in as Elvis was getting out. On May 16, 1961 he married the love of his life Loretta Youngs. She passed away unexpectedly on May 1, 1995.

Joe worked at WJ Cowee in Berlin for over 30 years before retiring in 1999. He enjoyed fishing and deer hunting with his sons, brothers, and nephews. Joe loved visiting with family, drinking an occasional vodka and cranberry, baking banana bread, making soup, and of course watching The Price is Right.

Joe is survived by his sons Joseph (Linda), Mark W., Matthew (Sylvia), Paul, and Jack (Lynne); his nephew and honorary son Bill (Kristen); his niece and honorary daughter Dar (Matt); his grandchildren Amber (Fred), Richard (Zule), Mary, Shane (Tabitha), Zach (Lyssa), and Isaiah; his great-grandchildren Brianna, Levi, Skarlette, and Joey; his brother John (Cathy), sister Mary, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. In addition to his wife Loretta, he was predeceased by his parents, his brothers William, Edward, Francis, and Robert, his sister Nettie Mae, and his grandson Joey.

Obituary Preview: Pittsfield – Gilman “Gil” Joseph Gervais passed away peacefully on Sunday evening, September 17, 2023 at the Berkshire Medical Center. Born in Madawaska, Maine on May 24, 1934, he was one of 10 children to Medley and Anne (Chase) Gervais.

Gil grew up in Maine, traveled for many years as a horse jockey and trainer, and moved to Stephentown in 1966 where he resided with his wife until 2022 when they moved to Pittsfield. After retiring from the horses he ventured into construction where he worked on commercial projects, residential projects, and installing in-ground swimming pools. Gil had a vast array of hands-on knowledge which he was proud to pass along to his son. He was an easy-going, friendly man who could get along with just about anyone.

Gil is survived by his beloved wife Geraline (Oakes) Gervais of Pittsfield, their son Dan (Cathy) Gervais of Pittsfield, his step-children, Phillip Reynolds and Karen (Arthur) Fitzpatrick, his grandson Marcus (Celine) Gervais of Cheshire, his siblings; Yvette, Dolores, Rachel, Regina, Gisele, and Giles, and by many nieces and nephews. Gil was preceded in death by 3 of his siblings; Herby, John Paul, and Fran.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 AM on Friday, September 22, 2023 at St. Joseph’s Church, Stephentown, with interment to follow in St. Joseph’s Cemetery. All are invited to visit with Gil’s family for an hour before the service, from 9 AM to 10 AM at Hall and Higgins Funeral Home, Stephentown. Those who wish to remember Gil in a special way may consider a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association, 1003 New Loudon Rd. Suite 201, Cohoes, NY 12047.

Obituary Preview: Berlin – John Henry “Jack” Kanopka passed away in the comfort of his home on Sunday, May 28, 2023. Born in Pittsfield on June 6, 1949, he was the son of the late Casimir and Dorothy (Chittenden) Kanopka.

Jack grew up in Berlin and graduated from Berlin High School. He proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army in Germany during the Vietnam War. Back home, he worked for the New York State Dept. of Transportation for 35 years until his retirement in 2002. Jack volunteered much of his time to local fire departments, beginning in Stephentown from 1972-1975, and then for Berlin for 33 years where he served as Chief. He was also a dedicated member of the American Legion Post 937 in Berlin.

In his free time Jack loved spending time with his family and friends. He was an avid dirt car racing fan who could often be found cheering on his good friend Kenny Tremon #115. In the summer Jack and his grandson would attend every racing night on Fridays and Saturdays and he even did a little racing himself on his snowmobiles. He also enjoyed tending to his garden, taking trips to the casino, going fishing and camping, competing in bowling leagues, and taking his Camaro to the area car shows.

Jack is survived by his daughters, Courtney Kanopka of Wynantskill and Morgan Kanopka of Averill Park, his step-children, Edward (Kim) Maxon of Berlin and Cheryl (Larry) Maxon of Berlin, his grandchildren; Gavin, Valerie, Phillip, Brittany, Desiree, and Dustin, and his great-grandson Christian. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 30 years, Faye Kanopka and by his brother William Kanopka.

All are invited to visit with Jack’s family on Wednesday, June 7, 2023 from 4 to 7 PM at the Hall and Higgins Funeral Home, Stephentown. A funeral will be celebrated the following morning, Thursday June 8, 2023 at 10 AM at the funeral home with interment to follow in Garfield Cemetery. In lieu of traditional flowers, those who wish to remember Jack in a special way may consider a donation to the Berlin Volunteer Fire Dept., the Stephentown Volunteer Fire Dept., or to the Berlin American Legion Post 937.

Obituary Preview: West Lebanon, NY - Helena Ruth Cummings, 79, passed away at the Berkshire Medical Center on Monday, May 1, 2023. Born in Staten Island on October 11, 1943, she was the daughter of the late Gunnar and Ruth (Butler) Hermanson.

Helen grew up in Staten Island and graduated from New Dorp High School in 1961. She worked at several banks over the next several years, including the Chase Manhattan Bank, First Niagara, and Berkshire Bank. In her free time she enjoyed reading her favorite books, playing on her computer, tending to the flowers in her garden, and spending time at Sacandaga Lake. While there was much that brought Helen joy, nothing made her happier than time spent with her family.

Helen is survived by her beloved husband of over 58 years, Floyd H. Cummings, Jr. of West Lebanon, their children; Brenda (Todd) Evans of East Nassau, Robert Cummings of Stephentown, and Brian Cummings of New Lebanon, her grandchildren; Krystal (Shane) Zeyak of West Lebanon, Matthew (Paige) Evans of East Nassau, Courtney (Will Newton) Evans of East Nassau, and her two great-grandchildren, Addison and Colson.

A funeral service will be celebrated at 12 noon on Friday, May 5 at Hall and Higgins Funeral Home, Stephentown with interment to follow in Cemetery of the Evergreens. All are invited to visit with Helen’s family before the service, from 11 AM to 12 PM. Those who wish to remember Helen in a special way may consider a donation to their favorite charity.

Obituary Preview: Hanco*ck – Norman Robert Rathbun, Sr., 79, lifelong resident of Hanco*ck, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 15, 2023. Born in Hanco*ck on July 17, 1943, he was the son of the late Julius Rathbun and Olive White.

Norman graduated from New Lebanon Central Schools in 1961. He worked as a dairy farmer on his own farm and at several local farms for many years. In his free time he could often be found keeping his property clear, mowing the yard, cutting firewood for the house, or working in the garden. He also enjoyed watching the wildlife from the porch. Norman was easy going, hard working, and an absolute pleasure to be around.

Norman is survived by his children; Elizabeth (Michael) Farrell of Castleton, Norman Rathbun, Jr. of Chatham, Clayton (Ellie Sue) Rathbun of Valatie, James Rathbun, Vincent Rathbun, and Lottie Rathbun, all formerly of Stephentown, his granddaughter Angel Rathbun, and by many nieces, nephews, and extended family members. He was preceded in death by his sisters; Helen Scace, Blanche Lillie, and Harriet Whitman.

A funeral service will be celebrated Friday, April 21, 2023 at 11 AM at Hall and Higgins Funeral Home, Stephentown. All are invited to visit with Norman’s family at the funeral home before the service, from 10 to 11 AM. Interment will follow in Hanco*ck Cemetery.

Obituary Preview: Lee, MA – Sandra D. Gale, 79, passed away Saturday, April 8, 2023. Born June 12, 1943, she was the daughter of the late Robert Dame and Bertha Northup Young.

Sandy worked as a Quality Control Inspector for Becton Dickinson until her retirement. In her free time she loved tending to the flowers in her garden and reading her favorite books. She also had a soft spot for animals, especially horses. She will certainly be missed by all her family and friends.

Sandy is survived by her two sons, Russell (Barbara) Gale, Jr. of Stephentown, NY and Matthew Gale of Holland, MA, her two granddaughters, Sonja (Jose) Rodriguez and Samantha (Charlie Osterhout) Gale, and her three great-grandchildren; Kristopher, Avery, and Naomi. She was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Russell Gale Sr., who passed away in 2017.

A graveside service will be held Thursday, April 13, 2023 at 11 AM at the Hanco*ck Cemetery in Hanco*ck, MA.

Obituary Preview: Stephentown - Lawrence G. Mullaly, 62, passed away at home on December 21, 2022. Born in Pittsfield on October 1, 1960, he was the son of the late John and Helen (Manns) Mullaly.

Larry was raised in East Nassau NY. As a young man he spent his summers at his family cabin in Pike Bay, Canada. He was a proud member of Local 40 heat and frost insulators union for most of his adult life. Larry was a sincere and kind man who was known for his love of Jerry Garcia and The Grateful Dead. Larry had an infectious laugh and a great sense of humor. He had a passion for gardening, the outdoors and animals. Larry and Lori established the Misfits Farm at their home and cared for many animals over the years. Every year they held an annual pig roast for all their family and friends. Larry will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife Lori Mullaly, son Cody Mullaly, daughter-in-law Jessica Mullaly grandsons, Skyler Mullaly and Milo Mullaly, his daughter Jessica Dikeman, his son in law Stratton Dikeman, and grandchildren Ryley Dikeman and Jocelyn Dikeman.

All are invited to visit with Larry's family on Tuesday, December 27 from 2 to 4 PM at the Hall and Higgins Funeral Home, Stephentown. In memory of Larry please wear your favorite tie-dye or flannel shirt to the visitation as well as to the Stephentown Rod and Gun Club after the visiting for a celebration of his life to share food and stories with friends and family.

Obituary Preview: Gregory M. Zuke, 76, of Stephentown, NY passed peacefully Saturday December 3rd, 2022 in the comfort of his own home surrounded by family.

Greg was the loving husband to his late wife Francis (Chapman) Zuke. He was the son of the late Frederick and Lydia (Romanowich) Zuke, as well as the brother of the late Frederick Zuke Jr.

Greg leaves behind his only son William (Kari) Zuke, his beloved grandchildren, Alana and Lukas Zuke, as well as his adopted daughter-in-law Nicole Schmidt. Greg was a long-time employee of the Berlin a Central school district where he taught Shop class before retiring in 1995. He was also the owner of Taconic Woodworking.

Greg was an avid wood craftsman as well as an avid golfer. He enjoyed watching sports and rooting for his favorite teams; the NY Giants and the UCONN Huskies.

Obituary Preview: Charles Douglas “Doug” Banker of Lebanon Springs, NY, passed away November 27, 2022 at Berkshire Medical Center in Pittsfield, MA, age 76. He was born June 15, 1946, in Rochester, NY, to parents Charles Waters and Margaret Mary Scheidt Banker. When Doug was six years old, his family moved to Phoenix, NY, where he lived for most of his formative years. He attended Kindergarten and first grade at Corpus Christi School in Rochester. Doug completed second through twelfth grades in the Phoenix Central School District, receiving a NY State Regents Scholarship upon graduation in 1964. Majoring in physics at Le Moyne College in Syracuse, NY, he received his Bachelor of Science degree in 1968.

While Doug was in college, his family moved to Lebanon Springs, NY, in 1967. After graduating, he lived with his family and worked for the General Electric Ordnance Division in Pittsfield, MA, in research and development associated with missile guidance systems. In the recession of 1970, Doug was laid off from his job and faced the draft for the Vietnam War effort, which prevented him from finding employment. He decided to enlist in the US Army Signal Corps. Doug trained in inside plant telephone repair, then was assigned to work in an Army telephone station in Taipei, Taiwan (Republic of China), in 1971. By the end of his active service, in 1973, he had attained the rank of Specialist E5 and was in charge of the test desk in the telephone exchange.

During his residency in Taiwan, Doug met a Chinese woman, Ah-Nee. She became his guide to the culture and language of Taiwan, and he helped her polish the English she had been studying. Eventually, Doug proposed marriage and she accepted. They were wed in a Chinese civil ceremony in 1972. Their daughter Margaret was born in the spring of 1973 and that year was about learning to be parents and slogging through administrative processes to obtain approval for Cindy (the “American” name she chose) to go to the United States. In August 1973, the new family moved to Lebanon Springs and Doug was discharged from active service.

Doug returned to work at GE, while Cindy worked to improve her English and adjust to living in America. Their daughter Mary was born in 1975. They bought their house in Lebanon Springs in 1978, engaging Doug in a multi-year renovation of the old place. In late winter of 1984, son Timothy arrived and the family was complete.

Doug’s Physics degree enabled him to work in multiple engineering disciplines (electrical, mechanical, systems) over the years as his company’s ownership moved from GE to Martin Marietta to Lockheed Martin to General Dynamics. He retired in 2006 as a Senior Manager of IT Operations.

Through the years, Doug served community organizations as a volunteer worker and board member: the New Lebanon Library, the Lebanon Valley Historical Society, and the Cemetery of the Evergreens. He worked as a technical advisor on a number of committees for both the New Lebanon Central School District and the Town of New Lebanon. Doug also served on both the New Lebanon Planning and Zoning Boards. He was Deputy Supervisor for a number of years under two different Town Supervisors.

In 2014, after Cindy passed away, Doug revived his lifelong interest in playing music and singing. He had played guitar from the age of 18, but in 2014 he became fascinated by the ukulele, bought one and learned to play it. By 2015, Doug was performing at “open mics” around Berkshire County, which instilled a love of using music to connect with other people. Over the next few years, he got to perform with local musicians (Linda Worster, David Grover, the Picky Bastards); was briefly in a band called the “Ukeville Stringband” led by his ukulele teacher Bernadette McMahon; and eventually co-formed a community band called The Echoes with Tistrya Houghtling, Judy Zimmer, and bassist Zen Reinhardt. The Echoes played at the New Lebanon Library, the Town Community Picnics, local farmers’ markets, and Melbourne Place in Pittsfield, MA. Doug also helped found the New Lebanon Music in the Park concert series, for which he did band selection, event management, and promotion for fourteen concerts from 2017 to 2021, involving many bands from Berkshire and Columbia counties.

Doug was predeceased by his wife Ah-Nee “Cindy” in 2013, his brother Frank in 1971, and his sister Kathryn Hunter in 2022. He is survived by his three children: Margaret (Chris Tripler), Mary, and Timothy (Mary Brauch) Banker; four grandchildren: Gus, Max, John, and Eva; three brothers: David, William (Corrine), and Sherman (Deborah) Banker; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Obituary Preview: Stephentown - David D. Desormeaux, 80, of Stephentown, New York, went to his eternal home on November 10, 2022. Dave was born on March 4, 1942, in Cohoes, New York, the son of the late Jules and Lucy Desormeaux.

Dave was married to his wife, Laurette, for 59 years and co-founded and operated Dave’s Supermarket in Stephentown for 37 years. He was involved in the community as a deacon in the Catholic Church, as a volunteer firefighter, and as an emergency medical technician. He served in the US Army from 1962 to 1965, which brought him to Japan.

Dave leaves behind his wife, Laurette; three daughters, their husbands; and eight grandchildren: Marie, Peter, Ryan, Christopher, Matthew, and Douglas Andrews; Michelle, Stacy, Taylor, and Lauren Meyer; and Marlene, Chris, Jules, and Eliza Otto.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated Thursday, November 17 at 11 AM at Immaculate Conception Church, New Lebanon. There will be no public calling hours.

Obituary Preview: New Lebanon – Kevin J. Collins passed away at home on Saturday evening, October 15, 2022. Born in Albany on May 9, 1960, he was the son of Allan and Shirley Collins.

Kevin leaves behind a wife, partner, and friend Shari Eames Collins, his daughter Ashlee Collins, his three granddaughters; Emily Poulter, Anastacia Meyer, and Bella Meyer, his three grandsons; Llayton, Llewellyn, and Lluxe Scott, his sister Tammy Bouck, and brothers; Daniel (Rebecca), Allan, and Ronald, two stepchildren, Russell and Staci Meyer and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother Howard Haberkern.

Services for Kevin will be held privately and have been entrusted to the Hall and Higgins Funeral Home, Stephentown.