Enea Family Funeral Home

Enea Family Funeral Home The Enea, Ciaccia, Applegate and Day Funeral Directors have been serving the families of the Mohawk In August of 1969, Harry J. Enea, Jr.

began his career in funeral service assisting Edward Holleran in the operation of Holleran Funeral Service in Herkimer. In January of 1972, he obtained his NYS Funeral Director's license, and also formed the Enea Monument Company. In the early 1980's, he purchased the Herkimer location subsequently adding his name. Harry has ambitiously dedicated himself to the families of the Mohawk Valley and the surrounding areas, and is proud to say his son is equally dedicated and is continuing the tradition. In 1975 Harry began helping Thomas Konchar in running Konchar Funeral Home in Little Falls, eventually buying this firm, which is now the Enea Family Funeral Home. Subsequently, the Shepardson Funeral Home firm merged their business with the Enea Family, forming the Konchar-Enea and Shepardson Funeral Home. In 1992 a fellow colleague, Robert Woody who ran the Smith - Woody Funeral Home in St. Johnsville, NY, put his trust in our firm to carry on his name and provide the utmost service to his community. We were honored, and took this opportunity and were anxious to now serve the families of Montgomery County. The name was eventually changed to Enea Family Funeral Home and Kevin Enea is the Funeral Director in charge. Throughout the years Harry's son Kevin decided to join his father in giving the families of Montgomery and Herkimer Counties the attention and professionalism they deserved. He went on and obtained his Funeral Director's license in 1995. He joined the family business and brought forth many new ideas and concepts to the ever-changing funeral industry. Kevin, along with Harry's nephew, Jason Cacciatore, are now in charge of the Enea Memorial operation, which encompasses D.H. Burdick Monument Company in Clinton, NY and DeRegis Monuments of Syracuse, NY which were both acquired by the Enea family. He is also very active in the community and the operation of Enea Family Funeral Homes. Throughout the years our firm was approached by many funeral conglomerates throughout the country looking to acquire our business but we decided to stay family owned and operated. With that in mind, and with the addition of Harry's son, Kevin, and encouragement from many families in the Ilion and Frankfort area, we opened our newest funeral facility, the Enea Family Funeral Home, between Frankfort and Ilion, in 1999. The 6500 square foot facility includes a children's play room, ample parking, a monument office, casket and vault display, and two very large and spacious gathering rooms. This facility also houses our administrative offices, and is one of the most welcoming funeral homes in the Mohawk Valley. In July of 2004, the Enea, Applegate, and Day families came together to form a funeral home service that would jointly operate four funeral homes in the valley. The sum of Don Applegate, John Day and the Enea Family staff working together, meant significant opportunities for us to support every family's needs. The Applegate & Day Funeral Home and the Graves-Applegate-Day Funeral Home have became completely independent and family-owned and are no longer affiliated with Stewart Enterprises Inc. Families will now be able to request the funeral director they prefer to arrange and direct their loved one's services. The Applegate Funeral Home was founded in 1919 by Don's grandfather and grandmother, Clayton and Marjorie Applegate. In September of 2016, Marty Ciaccia, a native of Frankfort and long-time licensed funeral director with the Enea firms, officially became a partner in the organization, and the Enea & Ciaccia Family Funeral Home was born. Our funeral directors and staff are proud of their commitment to the community they serve, and are dedicated, whole-heartedly, to creating an environment that makes our families feel safe and comfortable. They take pride in being Mohawk Valley residents and are available 24 hours a day, 7 days per week. You can learn more about each of our funeral directors in the staff section of our website by clicking our staff bios.

Joan Ann LaFayetteJoan Ann LaFayette (Evans), age 93, went home to be with her Lord on Sunday, January 25th, 2026. Joan ...
01/28/2026

Joan Ann LaFayette

Joan Ann LaFayette (Evans), age 93, went home to be with her Lord on Sunday, January 25th, 2026. Joan lived a life defined by services, faith, and resilience. A devoted Christian, she dedicated herself to helping others and remained steadfast in her beliefs throughout her life. In her final days, she was lovingly surrounded by family at the Hospice Home in New Hartford, NY.

Joan was one of the most courageous and determined individuals, overcoming life's many challenges with grace and strength. She was deeply loved by her family and friends and was blessed to share joyful moments with much of her extended family in her later years. The family is deeply grateful for the outpouring of support, kind words, and cherished memories shared by those who knew her.

She was predeceased by her parents, Arthur Evans and Evelyn Vaeth, her aunt Mary (Mimi), her sister Elizabeth Evans, her brother Robert Evans, her sister Marilyn, her husband Donald LaFayette, her daughter Ann Nesbit (Dulan), her stepson Gary LaFayette, her grandsons Gary LaFayette Jr., and Aiden Grems, and her lifelong friend Margo Kalwara.

Joan is survived by her sister-in-law, Agnes Evans (wife of the late Robert Evans), her stepson John Lafayette (Rita), her daughters, Sandra Rivers (David), Deborah Fitch (Robert), Laney Dulan, her son David LaFayette (Shelly) and her step daughter-in-law Cheryl (wife of the late Gary Lafayette). She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren; Lori Grems (Matt), Jay LaFayette (Stacey), Scott Harrig (Jennifer Lewis), Alicia Harrig (Tom Dianne), Heather Fludd (Kenneth), Brian Boyd (Lori Fortuna), Jessica Morey (Ted), Amanda Nichols (Chris) and Rebecca Fitch (Jay Steuart), Kathy Munch (Russell), Eric LaFayette (Nadine), and grandsons Kyle Egert, Cole Cossingham and Chris Markham. In addition, she is survived by 22 great-grandchildren, 10 great-great-grandchildren, and her cherished nieces, Pam (Perry), Brenda (Ron), Heidi (Jim) and nephew Jeff (Joan) and their children and grandchildren, each a testament to Joans enduring legacy.

Joans family would like to thank the Masonic Care Community and Hospice for the wonderful care they provided to Joan.

In keeping with her wishes, there will be a church service for Joan on Friday, February 6th, 2026, at 12:00pm at the St. Augustine's Episcopal Church, 78 Second Street, Ilion, NY 13357, officiated by Father K. Hunter. Interment will take place at Forest Hill Cemetery, Utica at a later date at the convenience of her family.

In lieu of flowers, Joans family kindly asks that donations be made to St. Augustine's Episcopal Church, 78 Second Street, Ilion, NY 13357.

Joan’s obituary may be viewed on the funeral home website by visiting www.eneafamily.com on the Internet.

Enea, Ciaccia, & Applegate Funeral Directors (315) 894-8000.

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Wanda J. LoeflerCelebrating the Life of Wanda J. (Bala) LoeflerILION – Mrs. Wanda J. (Bala) Loefler, a treasured soul of...
01/24/2026

Wanda J. Loefler

Celebrating the Life of Wanda J. (Bala) Loefler

ILION – Mrs. Wanda J. (Bala) Loefler, a treasured soul of Ilion, New York, peacefully departed this life on January 21st, 2026, at the age of 74.

Born on August 29th, 1951, in Herkimer, New York, Wanda was the beloved daughter of the late Loretta (Ford) and John Bala. Her compassionate spirit shone brightly during her time working at Valley Health Services in Herkimer, where she cared deeply for those around her.

On March 13th, 1971, Wanda wove her life’s journey with that of Robert D. Loefler, sharing love and joy as they welcomed two wonderful children into the world: Roberta Charles (James) and Robert Loefler II (Michelle). Family was at the heart of all she cherished, and she embraced her roles as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother with endless love. Her nurturing nature extended to all, as she devoted herself to caring for friends and family alike.

Wanda’s warm heart was reflected in her passions—whether it was baking delightful treats, engaging in spirited games of cards with her family, or cherishing moments at bingo nights, she filled her days with laughter and connection.

Though she has been preceded in death by her mother, father, brothers David Riesel and John Bala, and sister Susan Betz, Wanda’s legacy of love endures. She is lovingly remembered by her devoted husband, Robert; her brother Terry Riesel (Shelly); her two cherished children, Roberta Charles (James) and Robert Loefler II (Michelle); seven adoring grandchildren—Stefani, Avery, Jon, Margret, Ethan, Sebastian, and Alonzo; two precious great-grandchildren, Scarlett and Josephine; along with several nieces and nephews.

Wanda will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her and experiencing her kindness.

In honoring her wishes, the family has arranged for commemorative services to be held privately with The Enea & Ciaccia Family Funeral Home, located at 4309 Acme Road in Ilion, New York. As per her request, there will be no services open to the public.

For those wishing to pay tribute to her life, her obituary can be viewed on the funeral home website at www.eneafamily.com.

Enea, Ciaccia, & Applegate Funeral Directors (315) 894-8000.

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Susan A. BoyerIn Loving Memory DOLGEVILLE – It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mrs. Susan A. “Sue” ...
01/21/2026

Susan A. Boyer

In Loving Memory

DOLGEVILLE – It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mrs. Susan A. “Sue” Boyer, age 73, who departed this life on January 15th, 2026, in Cooperstown, New York. A cherished resident of the Town of Salisbury and Little Falls areas, Sue's life was a testament to love, family, and kindness.

Born on August 20th, 1952, in Albany, New York, Sue was the beloved daughter of the late George and Mary (Avery) Vedder. She was raised in the local community where she pursued her education in Dolgeville schools. For many years, Sue dedicated herself to various roles in retail—spending time at Hannaford’s as a price check specialist, as well as working at Allegro Shoe Corp, LaSalle Labs, and JC Penney’s, where she found joy in her work. Yet nothing brought her more happiness than her passion for baking, especially decorating cakes, a skill she mastered with creativity and flair.

Sue's heart overflowed with love for her family, and her greatest delight came from being a grandmother. She relished the moments spent babysitting her granddaughters and embraced every opportunity to shower her family with affection. Throughout her life, Sue was known for her caring spirit and unwavering dedication to those she loved dearly; family truly was her greatest priority.

In her personal life, Sue found love with Robert Boyer, marrying him on August 11, 2001. Their life together was filled with warmth and support until Bob's passing on November 15, 2020. Sue’s heart remains with her beloved daughter, Heather Randazzo, her husband Joe, and their children Amber (Raymond) & Natasha; her stepdaughter, Lisa Boyer Lamphere, and her son Daniel; as well as her great granddaughters, Charlotte and Oakley. She also leaves behind many treasured nieces, nephews, cousins, special friends, and her canine companion Maisie who will miss her deeply.

Sue was predeceased by her parents, her husband Bob, and her brother, Keith Vedder.

A celebration of Sue's life will take place in the Spring of 2026 at Mountain View Memorial Gardens Cemetery, where a graveside prayer service will honor her memory. While there will be no calling hours, we invite those who cherished Sue to gather and remember the joy she brought into their lives.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Bassett Cooperstown, particularly the ICU team, for the compassionate care provided to Sue during her final days.

Sue’s obituary may be viewed online at www.eneafamily.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Funeral Directors Enea, Ciaccia, & Applegate (315) 823-2424 of Enea Family Funeral Home, located at 24 West Monroe Street in Little Falls, New York.

In remembering Sue, let us carry forward her spirit of love and kindness, celebrating the beautiful life she lived and the many lives she touched.

Her obituary may be viewed by visiting the funeral home website at www.eneafamily.com on the Internet.

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Marilyn Mae (Robinson) WhiteMarilyn Mae (Robinson) White, a beloved mother and cherished friend, passed away peacefully ...
01/21/2026

Marilyn Mae (Robinson) White

Marilyn Mae (Robinson) White, a beloved mother and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on January 19, 2026. She is now reunited with her late husband, Clifford.

Born on May 26, 1931, in Syracuse, New York, Marilyn was the daughter of Lloyd and Violet (Wood) Robinson. A proud member of the Herkimer High School Class of 1948, she furthered her education at Utica College, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in 1952. The following year, she married Clifford White, and together they shared a loving partnership that lasted 37 years until his passing on January 10, 1990. In 2001, Marilyn moved in with her son and daughter-in-law to keep the warmth of family close by.

Marilyn was known for her strong work ethic, taking on various roles throughout her life. She dedicated over 20 years of her career to H&R Block, where she prepared taxes at both the Herkimer and Little Falls offices, eventually serving as the manager of the Little Falls location. Even after her retirement, she continued to support the community through tax preparation for Deborah Marrone, CPA in Mohawk.

A woman of deep faith, Marilyn found joy and solace in various Bible study gatherings. Her organizational skills extended to her passion for genealogy, where she traced her family's roots back to the 1600s and 1800s with great enthusiasm.

In her leisure time, Marilyn enjoyed games like Scrabble, often challenged by the computer, and participated in a weekly tradition of completing the New York Times crossword puzzle with her son Douglas and daughter-in-law Sharon. She actively attended the Christian Bible Church in Mohawk.

Marilyn is survived by her devoted sons and daughter-in-law Douglas and his wife Sharon White of Mohawk, NY, and Darryl White of San Diego, CA. She leaves behind a loving family, including several nieces and nephews and their families, along with cherished cousins and lifelong friends, Lillian, Linda, Joanna, and Shirley.

Marilyn was predeceased by her parents, her husband and her son-in-law David Stephens.

In honoring Marilyn's wishes, there will be no public services, as the family will remember her life privately. She will be laid to rest alongside her beloved husband, Clifford, at the Village of Mohawk Cemetery at a later time of the families choosing.

For those who wish to extend their sympathies, donations may be made in her memory to the Christian Bible Church at 167 Ward Rd., Mohawk, NY 13407 or online at www.christianbiblechurch.us/giving/, or to a charity of their choice.

Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to Mohawk Valley Funerals and Cremations, located at 7507 State Route 5, Little Falls, NY. Online condolences can be left at www.mohawkvalleyfunerals.com.

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Frances A. FitzgeraldFrances A. FitzgeraldLITTLE FALLS – Mrs. Frances Ann Fitzgerald (Lamanna) of 580 Garden Street, Lit...
01/20/2026

Frances A. Fitzgerald

Frances A. Fitzgerald

LITTLE FALLS – Mrs. Frances Ann Fitzgerald (Lamanna) of 580 Garden Street, Little Falls, New York, passed away on January 18th, 2026, at the age of 84, in the comfort of her home with her family and caregivers by her side.

Fran was born on July 24th,1941 at Little Falls Hospital, the daughter of Katherine and Peter Lamanna. She was educated in Little Falls schools and graduated high school with the Class of 1959. She furthered her education at APS in St. Louis, MO and received her certification in music theory. Fran was a highly respected piano instructor and taught many students in her hometown and in Virginia Beach, VA. She was actively involved in her community, served on the St. Mary’s School Board and was a long-time member of the Mohawk Valley Choral Society. She sang at many venues including Chrysler Hall in Virginia Beach. One of her many passions was cooking delicious meals (especially Italian cuisine) for family, friends, and neighbors.

Fran married Charles Fitzgerald, Jr. in St. Joseph’s Church on July 4th, 1964, with Father Alfred Lamanna officiating. Fran and Charlie enjoyed sixty-one years of marriage and had two children, Michael and Margaret.

In addition to her husband and children, she is survived by her sister, Philomena Cerone (Ralph Renzulli), her sisters-in-law, Angela Lamanna and Barbara Glockner, her grandson, Brody Fitzgerald, and many nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by her parents, her sister, Elsie Clark, her brother, Michael Lamanna, and her brothers-in-law, Pat Clark and Jim Glockner.

The family wishes to thank Hospice for its support and guidance. Special thanks to caregivers Debbie Marucci, Heather Spatto, Debbie Victor, and Analisa Leon for their compassion and professionalism during Fran’s illness.

In lieu of flowers, please consider contributions in her memory to Holy Family Parish, 763 E Main St, Little Falls, NY 13365.

Funeral Services will be held on Tuesday, January 27th, 2026, at 10:30 AM from The Enea Family Funeral Home, 24 West Monroe Street in Little Falls, New York, and at 11:00 AM at Holy Family Parish Church, corner of East Main & John Streets where her Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated. Interment will be later this spring at St. Mary’s Cemetery, town of Herkimer.

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend calling hours in honor of Fran at the funeral home on West Monroe Street, on Tuesday morning January 27th, from 9:00 AM until 10:30 AM and attend the funeral Mass at church that follows.

Arrangements are entrusted to The Enea Family Funeral Home, Little Falls, New York. This obituary may be visited at the funeral home website, www.eneafamily.com on the Internet.

Enea, Ciaccia, & Applegate Funeral Directors (315) 823-2424.

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Dawn Marie DeyleILION - Dawn Marie (Phillips) Deyle, 76, of Ilion, New York, passed away on January 17th, 2026, after a ...
01/20/2026

Dawn Marie Deyle

ILION - Dawn Marie (Phillips) Deyle, 76, of Ilion, New York, passed away on January 17th, 2026, after a long illness.

Dawn was born on March 22nd, 1949, in Ilion, NY, the daughter of Leslie V. Phillips Sr. and Kathleen C. (Baylor) Phillips. She graduated from West Canada Valley High School in 1968.

On September 18th, 1976, Dawn married William H. Deyle in Ilion, NY. They shared 45 years of marriage until Bill’s passing on October 6th, 2021.

Dawn worked for a time at Dave Cramer’s Video Rental, where her love of movies blossomed. She later worked alongside her husband at Bill Deyle’s Repair.

Dawn especially loved her 1965 fire-engine-red GTO convertible. She purchased her beloved “Goat” in California and proudly drove it back to New York. She enjoyed entering it in local car shows and won several trophies over the years.

Dawn was a wonderful host of family gatherings and loved her family with all her heart. She even “adopted” several of her children’s friends as her own. She also held a special place in her heart for her dog, Thor, and her many cats. Whether they lived inside with her or were feral outdoors, they were always given food and love.

Remaining to cherish Dawn’s memory are her daughter, Kathy Jameson, and son-in-law, Tony Jameson, of Granby, CO; her son, Bill Deyle II, of Ilion, NY; her grandchildren, Tom Foster III, Brody Foster, Joe Jameson, and Freya Jameson; and her great-grandchildren, Savannah, Avery, and Riley Foster. She is also survived by her sisters and their spouses, Cindy and Kevin McCaffery, Sandy and Tom Rush, Trina and Jim Lynch; her sister-in-law, Betty Phillips; her brothers and their spouses, Bucky and Jodi Phillips and Tim Phillips and brother-in-law Tom Rich; along with many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Preceding Dawn in death are her husband Bill Deyle, son Tom Foster, dad Leslie Phillips, mother Kathleen Phillips, sister Patti Rich and brother Gary Phillips.

Visitation and services will be held on Sunday, January 25th, 2026, from 3:00 PM until 5:00 PM at Enea & Ciaccia Family Funeral Home at 4309 Acme Road in Ilion (Town of Frankfort), with a Celebration of Life to follow across the road at The Frankfort VFW. Dawn loved her Tye-Dye shirts, so all are encouraged to bust out your fanciest Tye-Dye to remember her.

Dawn’s obituary may be viewed on the funeral home website at www.eneafamily.com on the Internet.

Enea, Ciaccia, & Applegate Funeral Directors (315) 894-8000.

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Roy A. CalafrancescoIn Loving Memory LITTLE FALLS – Mr. Roy A. Calafrancesco, age 82, passed away on Friday, January 16t...
01/20/2026

Roy A. Calafrancesco

In Loving Memory

LITTLE FALLS – Mr. Roy A. Calafrancesco, age 82, passed away on Friday, January 16th, 2026, at Wynn Hospital in Utica, New York.

Born on March 22nd, 1943, in Little Falls, N.Y., Roy was the son of the late Pat and Carmella Calafrancesco (Pasquale). He proudly called Little Falls his home, where he flourished and graduated from Little Falls High School in 1961.

In January 1962, he answered the call of duty and enlisted in the United States Navy, serving aboard the USS Forest Royal. His honorable service to his country spanned four years, culminating in an honorable discharge on January 7th, 1968.

After returning home, Roy found his soulmate, the love of his life, Sandra Emma Stock, and they united in marriage on June 29th, 1968, at St. Joseph’s Church in Little Falls, with Reverend John DeCaprio officiating. Their enduring bond of love and companionship spanned over 56 beautiful years, during which they embraced the joyous challenges of raising their two beloved sons.

Roy was known for his kind and joyful spirit, touching the lives of everyone around him as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Sundays were special to him, filled with love as the family gathered for dinner, where laughter and stories were shared, and he always looked forward to playing cribbage with his grandson, Kaden.

A man of deep faith, Roy was a devout Catholic and a respected member of Holy Family Parish in Little Falls. His dedication to community was evident through his involvement with the Little Falls Senior League Golf, the Ilion Fish & Game Club, and his service as a Little Falls call fireman for many years.

His career spanned over three decades at Re*****on Arms in Ilion, New York, from which he retired on March 30, 2012, leaving a legacy of hard work and dedication.

An enthusiast of the outdoors, Roy delighted in fishing the serene lakes and streams of Central New York. He took immense pride in his garden, generously sharing the fruits of his labor with friends and family. His homemade wine, fondly referred to as his "grape juice," is a testament to his joyful spirit and creativity.

Roy was predeceased by his beloved sister, Patricia Davis.

He leaves behind his surviving family, his devoted wife, Sandra; sons Roy and Robert Calafrancesco; grandson Kaden, who was his little buddy; several nieces and nephews; and numerous cousins.

NOTICE OF SERVICE POSTPONEMENT IN RECOGNITION OF INCLEMENT WEATHER PREDICTION

In remembrance of his remarkable life, funeral services will be held on SATURDAY AFTERNOON, January 31st, 2026, at 4:00 PM at The Enea Family Funeral Home, located at 24 West Monroe Street in Little Falls, New York. Friends and family are warmly invited to share memories during calling hours from 2:00 PM until 4:00 PM, leading up to the service in the funeral home chapel at 4:00 PM. Roy will rest peacefully in spring interment at St. Mary’s Cemetery in the town of Herkimer, where he will receive military honors.

NOTICE OF SERVICE POSTPONEMENT IN RECOGNITION OF INCLEMENT WEATHER PREDICTION

Roy’s loving spirit and the warmth he brought to those around him will never be forgotten. For online condolences and to honor his memory, please visit www.eneafamily.com on the Internet.

Enea, Ciaccia, & Applegate Funeral Directors (315) 823-2424.

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01/19/2026
Charlotte A. GokeyMOHAWK – Charlotte A. Gokey, age 73, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2026.Born in Brooklyn on Oct...
01/19/2026

Charlotte A. Gokey

MOHAWK – Charlotte A. Gokey, age 73, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2026.

Born in Brooklyn on October 15, 1952, Charlotte was the daughter of the late Osborne and Severine (Christiansen) Sakariasen.

Charlotte was united in marriage to the late John R. Gokey who predeceased her on July 7, 2025. Together, John and Charlotte enjoyed time spent in the Adirondacks and being surrounded by their family. Charlotte is survived by her brother and sister-in-law, David and Linda Sakariasen; her niece, Brittany Sakariasen and nephew, Christopher Sakriasen; a stepson, John Gokey, and his wife, Brandy, of Mohawk; her grandson, Branden Gokey of Mohawk; and extended family. There will be no formal services at this time. Charlotte and John's earthly remains will be laid to rest, together, in Calvary Cemetery, Herkimer, at a later date and time.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Enea, Ciaccia & Applegate funeral directors. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.eneafamily.com .

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Howard E. Richards, Jr.LITTLE FALLS – Mr. Howard E. Richards, Jr., age 80, of the Town of Manheim, peacefully passed awa...
01/15/2026

Howard E. Richards, Jr.

LITTLE FALLS – Mr. Howard E. Richards, Jr., age 80, of the Town of Manheim, peacefully passed away at his home on January 14th, 2026.

Born in Little Falls on April 10th, 1945, Howard was the son of the late Howard E. Richards Sr. and Veronica Richards (Lynch). He attended Fort Plain Schools and proudly served as an engine man (EN2) in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. After serving his country, he worked as a maintenance machinist at Re*****on Arms, eventually retiring to spend his time driving buses for Brown Coach and Little Falls Fonda Bus Corp.

Known for his remarkable skills, it was often said that if Howie couldn’t fix something, it simply could not be fixed. He dedicated countless hours to helping others with his talents resulting in endless stories reflecting his willingness and enthusiasm.

In a beautiful union on December 21st, 1977, Howard married his soulmate, Gloria (Feane) Richards, in their home. Together, they created a strong family foundation while raising their five children: Scott (Valerie) Morse, Calvin (Lori) Richards, Diane (William) Schuyler, Candace (Alex) Roux, and Eric Morse. Their bond only strengthened over the years, as they were rarely apart on their journey through life.

Howard had a passion for travel, enjoying camping across the nation in their RV and proudly visiting 49 out of the 50 states. One of his favorite traditions was an annual camping vacation with his children and grandchildren, which lasted for 25 years.

He leaves behind his beloved wife of nearly 50 years, Gloria; his children as listed above; his brothers Donald, Lynn (Nancy), Art, and Kevin (Lucinda) Richards; as well as 9 grandchildren: Taylor, Anthony, and Gabriel Morse; Madeline Schuyler; Alex and Carissa Roux; Brandon Holdridge; and Maria and Erica Morse. Additionally, Howard cherished his 10 great-grandchildren and his Feane brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.

Howard was predeceased by his brother, Gary Richards.

Adhering to his optimistic philosophy, Howie often said, “Today is better than yesterday, but tomorrow will be better yet.”

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 17th, 2026, at 10:30 AM from The Enea Family Funeral Home, located at 24 West Monroe Street in Little Falls, New York. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 AM at Holy Family Parish Church, situated at the corner of East Main and John Streets in Little Falls. His interment will occur later in Spring 2026 at St. Mary’s Cemetery in the town of Herkimer, with full military honors.

Family and friends are respectfully invited to calling hours on Friday evening, January 16th, from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at The Enea Family Funeral Home, Little Falls.

Howard’s obituary can be viewed on the funeral home website at www.eneafamily.com.

For more information, please contact Enea, Ciaccia, & Applegate Funeral Directors at (315) 823-2424.

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Tiffany Sarah VarlaroIn Loving Memory ILION - Our cherished Tiffany Sarah Varlaro, age 49, passed away peacefully but un...
01/15/2026

Tiffany Sarah Varlaro

In Loving Memory

ILION - Our cherished Tiffany Sarah Varlaro, age 49, passed away peacefully but unexpectedly on January 12th, 2026, at her home in Ilion, New York.

Born on August 2nd, 1976, in Herkimer, New York, Tiffany was the beloved daughter of Alfonso J. and Deborah “Debbie” J. (Valentine) Varlaro. She was a 1994 graduate of Herkimer High School and earned her Bachelor of Arts in History and Political Science from the University of Albany, SUNY, in 1998.

Tiffany devoted her professional life to supporting and uplifting students. She touched countless lives through her work in higher education, beginning as Director of Residence Life at Herkimer County Community College. She later served as Assistant Director of Residence Life at Cazenovia College, Assistant Dean for Residence Life and Conduct, and Dean of Students at Cazenovia College. Most recently, she was the Student Life Director at Pratt Munson. To many students, Tiffany was far more than an administrator, she was a mentor, advocate and chosen family.

She had a deep love for live music and sports. Tiffany was a devoted fan of Syracuse University football as a season ticket holder. She often invited friends and family to join her at games. She cheered passionately for the Buffalo Bills, and held a lifelong love for the San Francisco 49ers, Joe Montana and the New York Yankees. She also held a special place in her heart for the New York Giants, having worked at their training camp for several summers. A true sports enthusiast, Tiffany could quote facts, statistics and players from countless teams with ease.

Tiffany loved to travel and was always ready for the next road trip in her favorite car. Her destination of choice was Walt Disney World where she went several times through the years with family and friends, fostering countless memories with the people she loved. She recently fulfilled her lifetime dream of visiting France and seeing the beaches of Normandy, combining her love of travel with her passion for history.

Beloved by her students, many of whom affectionately called her Mom, she was ever present in their lives. She spent countless hours listening, advising, and caring for them. She would drive students to and from airports, appointments, grocery stores, wherever they needed to go. She made sure they had what they needed to succeed. Whether that was food, a joke, a new roommate, books or a new shower curtain. She made certain they had it. She celebrated their accomplishments wholeheartedly and remained a constant presence in their lives long after graduation, often attending their weddings and baby showers years later.

Tiffany was selfless, genuine, and had a smile that could light up a room. Her cackle could be heard far and wide, and her heart was as big as the world around her. She had a rare gift for making people feel at ease and valued. Her empathy knew no bounds. She lived by the mantra, “There are no strangers here, only friends you haven’t met yet.” To know Tiffany was truly to love her

She is survived by her parents, Alfonso and Debbie Varlaro of Herkimer, her brother AJ Varlaro of Sarasota, FL, her nephew AJ Varlaro of Marcellus, numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and a multitude of friends.

She is predeceased by her grandparents Rosemarie and Joe Varlaro and Edward and Bernice Valentine.

Calling hours will be Saturday, January 24th ,2026, from 1:00 PM until 4:00 PM at The Enea & Ciaccia Family Funeral Home 4309 Acme Road, Ilion, New York (Town of Frankfort), concluding with a prayer service. Spring interment will be alongside her family in Calvary Cemetery, Herkimer.

The family would like to thank the Ilion Police Department, Ilion Fire Department, Herkimer Police Department, and Herkimer County Coroner Kevin Enea for their professionalism and care in responding.

Tiffany’s obituary may be viewed on the funeral home website by visiting www.eneafamily.com on the Internet.

Enea, Ciaccia, & Applegate Funeral Directors (315) 894-8000.

View Tiffany Sarah Varlaro's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Lance C. DygertMr. Lance Christian Dygert, age 59, of Mohawk passed away unexpectedly on January 8, 2026, at home.One of...
01/14/2026

Lance C. Dygert

Mr. Lance Christian Dygert, age 59, of Mohawk passed away unexpectedly on January 8, 2026, at home.

One of eight children, Lance was born on September 1, 1966, a son of the late Edward and Edna (Ward) Dygert. He graduated from Owen D. Young Central School in 1984.

He was employed at Greens Warehouse, Spohn's Disposal, DeIorio’s, worked as a Foodliner truck driver, and assisted working at a sawmill. Lance enjoyed fishing, having bonfires while drinking twisted teas, spending time with his family and friends and riding his motorcycle. Lance worshiped his daughter and grandchildren.

He is survived by his significant other Connie Dygert of Mohawk, his daughter Natasha Burleigh and her fiancé William Allen III and two grandchildren, Paisley and William Allen IIII with another grandson to be born in May. He is also survived by his siblings, Alfred and his wife Myra, David and his wife Betty, Linda and David, Mike and his wife Brandy, Clarence and his wife Renee, Chris and his wife Frances, as well as many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins.

Besides his parents, Lance was preceded in death by his brother Doug Dygert in 2000, and many aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.

Calling hours for Lance will be held at the Enea & Ciaccia Family Funeral Home on Friday, January 16th, from 2:00pm- 3:00pm. Interment will take place at a date to be announced in the spring at The Mohawk Cemetery Annex.

Lance’s obituary may be viewed on the funeral home website by visiting www.eneafamily.com on the Internet.

Eneas, Ciaccia, & Applegate Funeral Directors (315) 894-8000.

View Lance C. Dygert's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

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Business Office, 4309 Acme Road
Ilion, NY
13340

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