Enea Family Funeral Home

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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.

03/18/2026

James A. LaCelle

IN LOVING MEMORY

ILION – Our family would like to share this obituary for James A. LaCelle, age 81, of Ilion, New York, who passed away unexpectedly on March 16th, 2026, at his home of natural causes.

He was born on July 21st, 1944, in Ilion, a son of the late Raymond and Pauline (Ingoldsby) LaCelle and attend local schools. He married Joyce M. Aspinwall on July 8th, 2001, and the couple were embarking upon their silver wedding anniversary. James worked as a delivery driver through the years for Pep Boys. He enjoyed the outdoors camping, fishing, hunting and picnics. He was of the Catholic faith.

He is survived by his wife Joyce of 24 years; his sons: James (Anna) LaCelle, Wayne LaCelle, Aaron (Janessa)Wells, his daughters: Dawn Frasier, Wendy Hurteau, Rebecca (Scott) Gillette, Tracy Siver. Also, his grandchildren: Nick, Gracie, Eric, Kyle, Stacy, Brittany, Cortney, Chyanna, Jazmyn, Kirsten, Matthew, Austin, Dustin, Filicity, and many great grandchildren.

He was predeceased by Marion M. Pogue who was his mother-in-law on May 20th, 2022.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, March 25th, 2026, at 5:00 PM at The Enea & Ciaccia Family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Road in Ilion, New York (Town of Frankfort), at which time a prayer service will be held in the funeral home chapel. Spring interment will take place at St. Agnes Cemetery, North Ilion.

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend calling hours for James prior to the funeral service at the funeral home, on Wednesday from 3:00 PM until 5:00 PM and attend the funeral services that follow.

After the funeral services, on Wednesday at the funeral home, we will be holding Celebration of Life at Mohawk American Legion, 43 West Main Street in Mohawk, from 5:30 to 8pm.

Those wishing to remember James in a special way are asked in lieu of flowers to consider a donation in his memory to Anita’s Stevens Swan Humane Society, www.anitas-sshs.org.

His 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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03/17/2026

Maynard E. Blask

In Loving Memory of Maynard E. Blask

July 23, 1929 – March 15, 2026

LITTLE FALLS - Maynard Blask, a beloved resident of Little Falls, New York, passed away peacefully in the evening of March 15th at the age of 96. On his final day he was surrounded by his family. He was the son of Paul and Mary (Miller) from Middleville, New York. Maynard was preceded in death by his brothers Vince, Anthony, Paul, and Bernie, as well as his sisters Pauline (Plink) Ozog and Irene Walczak.

In 1950, he married Gloria Anne Pullen, who passed away in 1977. Together, they had six children: Michael (Margaret), Michele Swift, Mary Beth (Bernard) Jodway, Mark (Stephanie), Melissa (Jami), and Matthew. Maynard’s legacy includes twelve grandchildren—Eric (Jen), Brian (Logan), Andrew, Adam (Natalia), Corky, Alyssa (Zach), Benjamin (Katherine), Kaitlin (Pat), Zachary (Cat), Madison, Matthew (Miranda) and Jackson—and twelve great-grandchildren: Noah, Olivia, Spencer, Emerson, Annabella, Samuel, Sage, Pierce, Hazel, Chase, Mila and Frances. He was also cherished by many nieces, nephews, and cousins, maintaining close relationships with all. Maynard affectionately referred to his extended family as “The Polish Army”.

Known to many as “Coach”, Maynard’s life was closely intertwined with sports. During his service in the Navy, he was stationed in Norfolk, Virginia, where he played third base for the Norfolk City baseball team. It was there that he met his future wife, Gloria, after arranging a date with the coach’s daughter. Two years later, they married and started their family. After completing his military service, Maynard attended Ithaca College where he played on both the baseball and basketball teams. Upon graduation, he returned to the Mohawk Valley, where he proceeded to dedicate many years to teaching and coaching at West Canada, Little Falls, and Herkimer schools. Maynard treasured the strong relationships he built with former players and loved reminiscing with them about sports and life.

In the 1970s, while teaching in Little Falls, Maynard noticed that students had to wait until high school to play organized basketball. To address this, he created the “Blask League” for students of all ages to practice and play games at St. Mary’s gym for many years. This league is fondly remembered throughout Little Falls.

In 1975, Maynard joined a group led by Mayor Ted Wind to bring a professional baseball team to Little Falls. Their efforts led to the establishment of the Little Falls Mets, a farm team of the New York Mets, which began playing at Veteran’s Memorial Park in 1977. As General Manager, Maynard built lasting relationships with players and coaches. Even after the Mets left, he worked diligently to ensure that summer baseball continued at Vet’s Park, a tradition that has lasted for nearly five decades. In 2013, for his dedication to the sport, Maynard was inducted into the Mohawk Valley Baseball Hall of Fame.

Maynard’s passion for baseball was also evident in his coaching at Herkimer, where his teams won several sectional titles and reached the state final four. He was an avid fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and rarely missed a game on television. His enthusiasm once led him to drive to St. Louis in hopes of meeting his favorite player, Stan Musial. Although he did not meet Stan, he quickly made friends with the local Ladies Group who invited him to lunch, demonstrating his ability to connect with people everywhere he went.

In the 1950s, Maynard and his brother Bernie built a camp on Moose River, affectionately known as Camp Kill a Keg. Despite its designation as a hunting camp, the deer of the Adirondacks were never safer. Maynard enjoyed sharing his sense of humor with visitors, famously hanging a rotary phone on a pine tree and joking that the phone number was “tree, tree tree……tree, tree, tree, tree.” For over forty years, Maynard and Bernie welcomed friends and family to the camp, where Maynard’s hospitality was evident—he always ensured a warm fire, a stocked fridge and a homemade Polish dish awaited every guest. The Adirondacks held a special place in his heart.

Maynard was deeply devoted to the city of Little Falls and played an active role within his community. He was on the Common Council for twenty-two years and spent many years on the city’s Police and Fire Commission. He was a dedicated member of several local organizations. He belonged to the American Legion for 50 years, showing steadfast support for veterans and community causes. His involvement with the Elks Lodge spanned over six decades, during which time he was honored as Elk of the Year for his outstanding contributions and commitment to the Lodge. Throughout his life, Maynard generously volunteered his time and energy to improve the community he cherished. His faith was very important to him, displayed by his active membership of Holy Family Parish (St. Mary’s). His efforts made a lasting impact on Little Falls, reflecting his passion for service and his desire to make his city a better place for all.

Maynard will be remembered as a loving man who embraced life and always took time to put a smile on people’s faces. His legacy of laughter, kindness and love of family will live on in all who knew him. His obituary may be viewed on the funeral home website by visiting www.eneafamily.com on the Internet.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, March 24th, 2026, at 10:30 AM at 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 in Little Falls where his Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated. Interment will take place later this spring with full military honors at St. Mary’s Cemetery, town of Herkimer.

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend calling hours for Maynard at The Enea Family Funeral Home, Little Falls, on Monday, March 23rd, from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM and attend the funeral services on Tuesday as well. Members of the Little Falls American Legion Post #31 are asked to perform ritualistic services at the funeral home on Monday at 6:15PM and the Little Falls Elks Lodge BPOE #42 will perform ritualistic services Monday evening at 7:00 PM at the funeral home.

It is the wish of the family that contributions in loving memory of Maynard be considered to The Little Falls Elks Lodge BPOE #42, General Fund, and envelopes will be available at the funeral home for this purpose.

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

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03/16/2026

Anthony F. Speranza

Mr. Anthony F. Speranza, age 76, of Ilion, New York, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at Colonial Park Rehabilitation Center.

Anthony, more commonly known as Tony, was born in Yonkers, New York, on December 28, 1949, to the late Anthony A. Speranza and Catherine L. Speranza (DeDomenico). He graduated from Harrison High School and went on to continue his education at Utica College of Syracuse University, earning a bachelor’s degree in construction engineering.

On May 30, 1981, Tony married the love of his life, Cynthia L. Bechard, in Ilion, New York. Together they shared 44 years of marriage filled with love, family, and many memories.

Tony proudly served his country after being drafted by the United States Army, where he was stationed at West Point, New York, serving as a Military Police officer. After his military service, he began a career in sales with Norandex, specializing in building supplies. He later worked with several insurance companies, most notably Prudential Insurance, where he handled both claims and sales. Tony also spent time working at Little Falls Lumber in building supplies and sales before serving as a security guard at various locations in the Utica area. He especially valued his time at the Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute, where he developed a deep appreciation for the museum’s historical and artistic collections. He and his wife often would spend their free time together exploring the museum’s exhibits.

Some hobbies Tony enjoyed included fishing, traveling, camping and woodworking. After graduating from college, he spent several months backpacking across Europe, an adventure that reflected his curiosity and love for experiencing new places, especially Italy. He also had a passion for sports cars and NASCAR races. In addition, he took great pride of his home, fixing things and improving whatever he could. He also treasured time, over the years, spent with family and with friends he and Cindy met at Mohawk Reformed Church.

Above all, Tony loved spending time with his son, Anthony, and was very proud of him. They shared many interests and hobbies. Tony was very supportive of the sports Anthony played, especially soccer. Wanting to be a part of that experience, Tony volunteered as a referee for AYSO, where he enjoyed being a part of the game with his son.

Tony was also deeply proud of his Italian heritage. His last name, Speranza, meaning “to hope,” was a motto he and his family held close to their hearts.

Tony is survived by his beloved wife, Cynthia L. Speranza, of Ilion; his son Anthony J. Speranza and wife Megan, of Whitesboro; and his grandchildren, Cadence, Jace and Travis. Also dear to him, Adam Witte, Cadence’s boyfriend. Tony was also joyfully anticipating the arrival of another grandson, Baby Noah Speranza. Tony is survived by his siblings, Laura (Joseph) Hoch, Cecelia (Thomas) McClain, and Margaret (Dr. Fulton) Kornack. He is also survived by an aunt, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins, among many other family members.

He was predeceased by his parents, Anthony A. and Catherine L. Speranza, and his brother, John Speranza. Also, his stepmother, Margaret Speranza.

In keeping with Tony’s wishes, he will be cremated and buried in the spring at Armory Hill Cemetery, in Ilion, NY. There will be a Celebration of Life held, at Mohawk Reformed Church, officiated by Pastor Brian Engle— at a date to be announced soon.

Tony will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and a man who embraced life with curiosity, a sarcastic humor, and a generous heart. His legacy of hope, hard work, and love of family will live on in all who knew him.

Tony and his family are under the care of Enea, Ciaccia & Applegate Funeral Directors, 4309 Acme Road, Ilion, NY 13357.

Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.eneafamily.com

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03/15/2026

Joseph Henry Wallace, III

IN LOVING MEMORY

FRANKFORT - Joseph Henry Wallace, III, fondly known as "Joe," peacefully passed away on the evening of March 13th, 2026, at his home in Frankfort, New York, at the age of 56. Surrounded by the love and support of his cherished family, Joe bravely faced his battle with cancer until the very end.

Born on February 13th, 1970, in Brooklyn, New York, Joe was a devoted son to Joseph H. "Sonny" Wallace, II, and MaryAnn (Davern) Wallace. Rooted in the Catholic faith, Joe had immense admiration for Reverend Monsignor Francis J. Willenburg of St. Agnes Church, who always remained a meaningful part of Joe’s life.

Joe’s gentle spirit was well known to all who knew him, a towering presence with a heart just as large. He was passionate about sports, cheering on the Pittsburgh Steelers, New York Knicks, and New York Mets with boundless enthusiasm. Joe took pride in every endeavor with humility and kindness. His love for King Kong and Godzilla was a joyful legacy he shared with his children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and others alike. Joe also found happiness in vacationing with his family, any time he was near the ocean.

Joe's early years in East Utica, New York, were marked by deep connections and lifelong friendships with a special mention to Frank Costello and Rosemarie Grounds. One of Joe’s favorite past times was going to hunting camp with the guys, Jack, Joseph, Randy, Jose, and Zachary were all part of what they referred to as “The Brotherhood.” Many unforgettable laughs and memories were made. Joe also loved hanging in what he called “The Kitchen of Doom,” where he developed many friendships, sharing drinks and laughs, blaring the Dewalt Radio. Songs from Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Genesis, Metallica and many more, especially Fats Domino, “I Found My Thrill On Blueberry Hill”, were some of his favorites.

Motivated by his motto, “do it nice, or do it twice!” which meant doing it right the first time. Joe always took pride in what he did, and he did it well. For 17 years he dedicated himself to his work at Lignetics New England Wood Pellet Plant, in Schuyler, NY.

Joes greatest joy was his family. Joe was united in marriage to Donna Scofield, of Cold Brook, New York, who affectionately called him her “Mighty Joe Young,” a fitting tribute to his unwavering strength and devotion. Joe and Donna shared a blessed union for 33 years. Joe was a proud father to Joseph H. Wallace, IV (Christina) and Ashley VanCourt (Fred), and a devoted grandfather to Andre, Tristen, and Joseph, in which he shared special bonds with individually.

He is lovingly remembered and survived by his mother, MaryAnn Wallace; sisters JoAnn Carbone and Joslyn Arena (Randy); brother-in-law Anthony “Big Ant”; four nephews—Anthony, Thomas, Zachary (Erica), and Matthew; nieces Jade (Charlie) and Tiffany (PJ); numerous great-nieces and nephews; and his dear Aunt Teena Davern, who always had a special place in his heart, alongside many aunts, uncles, and cousins from New York City and beyond its surrounding area.

Joe was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Joseph H. and Beatrice Wallace; maternal grandparents, Michael J. and Amelia Davern; his father, Joseph H. "Sonny" Wallace, II; sister Roberta A. Guerriera; and two beloved uncles, John and Patty Davern, who were like brothers to him, and a host of aunts, uncles, and cousins, although overly numerous to mention, yet loved dearly.

A special place in his heart was always held for his “fur babies,” Ella and Lilly, his loyal canine companions who brought him comfort and joy.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Christina Aranda, who Joe referred to as “The Boss,” during his illness, as well as Dr. Atul Butala and the dedicated nurses at MVHS. They also deeply appreciate Masonic Care, including Shirley, Judy, Susie and Sue. The Hospice team, with special mentions to Tiahna B., (RN), Ashley M., (Social Worker), for their kindness and compassionate care.

Those wishing to remember Joe in a special way are asked to consider a donation in his memory to either Hospice & Palliative Care, or to the Herkimer County Humane Society. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home for these purposes.

Friends and relatives are warmly invited to pay their respects during calling hours on Friday, March 20th, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at The Enea & Ciaccia Family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Road, Ilion, New York (Town of Frankfort). A funeral service honoring Joe’s life will take place at the funeral home immediately following at 7:00 PM on Friday evening.

Joe’s casket will be laid to rest at Armory Hill Cemetery in Ilion at a date to be announced in the very near future.

His memory will live in the hearts of all who knew him, and his obituary may be viewed at www.eneafamily.com on the Internet.

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

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03/15/2026

Joseph H. Wallace III

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03/13/2026

Walter Harwick

Mr. Walter Harwick, age 78, of Mohawk, NY passed away peacefully in his home, on March 12, 2026, surrounded by his family.

Walt was born in Little Falls on August 9th, 1947, to Vera and Walter Harwick. He graduated from Mohawk High School in 1966 before serving in the United States Army, 3rd Armored Division 2/27 in Friedberg, Germany from 1967 to 1970.

On October 7th, 1972, Walt married the love of his life Janet Harwick (née Windecker). As they built their family, Walt embarked on a career as a delivery truck driver. After 30 years he retired from Coca-Cola in 2006 and continued driving as a seasonal employee for the Herkimer County Highway Department.

Walt was an avid walker, and many in his community will remember seeing him out for his daily four-mile walk. He enjoyed trivia nights with his friends, assembling his Coca-Cola village every Christmas, and said that his big hobby was spending time with his family.

Walt was predeceased by his wife, parents, and siblings Eleanor Tucker, Joan Miner, and Dick and Raymond Rickard. He is survived by his daughters Amy (Dexter) Hoag of Newport, Rhode Island, Sara (Russ) Herringshaw of Ilion, New York, and Krista (Rick Gloo) Harwick of Little Falls, New York, and his beloved grandchildren Laura, Emma, and Ethan Hoag, and Morgan, Brady, and Molly Herringshaw.

A celebration of Walt's life will be held this summer. A graveside service will take place at a date to be announced at Armory Hill Cemetery, where he will be laid to rest with his beloved wife.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Walt to Hospice and Palliative Care of Oneida, Herkimer, and Eastern Madison Counties. Donations can be made online at https://hospicecareinc.org/donate-online/ or by mailing to Hospice and Palliative Care, 4277 Middle Settlement Rd, New Hartford, NY 13413.

Walt and his family are under the care of the Enea, Ciaccia Applegate Funeral Directors, 4309 Acme Road, Ilion, NY 13357.

Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.eneafamily.com.

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03/10/2026

Denise M. Cook

IN LOVING MEMORY

FORT PLAIN - Denise M. Cook, 70, of Fort Plain, New York, passed away Sunday, March 8th, 2026, at Cooperstown Center, town of Otsego, New York.

Denise was born on November 15th, 1955, in Little Falls, New York to Regina and Raymond Hudson, Jr. She graduated from Fort Plain High School in 1973 and lived the majority of her life on Wagners Hollow Road in Fort Plain. Over the years she worked at Capece’s Deli, J & R Lumber, Fort Plain Pharmacy, Harvey Triumpho Agency and several other local insurance agencies.

Denise enjoyed crafting, floral arranging, and spending lots of time in the sun tending to her flower gardens. Friends and family could always count on her creativity if there were decorations needed for weddings, proms, or other celebrations. Denise also loved music and if an event had a dance floor you would find her there.

Denise is survived by her daughters, Shelley (William) Dorritie of Mount Vision and Julie (David) Johnson of Unity, WI, her grandchildren, Eric Dorritie, Lucas Dorritie, and Connor Johnson, her sister, Sherry Thurm, her brother, Bruce Hudson, and several nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by her parents.

The family would like to give heartfelt thanks to the staff at Cooperstown Center for the care provided to Denise and to the special friends and neighbors who were so helpful to her daughters in the last few weeks of her life.

A graveside committal service will be held for family and friends on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 11:00 am at the Freysbush Cemetery, where Denise will be laid to rest with her parents. A Celebration of Life will follow the service at 269 Main Street, Fort Plain, hosted by Robin and Richard Dineen.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of The Enea Family Funeral Home, 9 Center Street in St. Johnsville, New York.

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

Enea, Ciaccia, & Applegate Funeral Directors (518) 568-2300.

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03/10/2026

Michael A. Knopka

Michael A. Knopka, age 73, of Cedarville passed away peacefully on his birthday with his loving family by his side.

He was born to Stella and Francis Knopka in Barneveld. Mike was a 1971 graduate of Holland Patent High School. He married JoAnn Lorow on March 30, 1974 in Hornell, NY.

Mike had a love for the outdoors, fishing, and especially hunting. He had a passion for firefighting and he held several positions, including Chief in the Cedarville Fire Dept. Mike served in the fire service for 45 years.

Mike is survived by, his wife JoAnn, children, Carrie (Dan) Bass, Michael J. Knopka, and Jay(Crystal) Knopka. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Stephanie(Jeff) Ward, Joseph (Karie) Bass, Shaylyn Dolly, Riley Knopka, Alyssa Knopka, Stella Knopka, and Lucas Knopka. Great Grandchildren, Taylor Ward, Ryder Ward, and Clayton Bass. Also Survived by one brother, James Knopka.

He was predeceased by his parents, and special great-grandson, Hunter Ward.

There will be a celebration of life for Mike in the spring at a date later to be announced.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Mike's memory to The Hunter 221 Foundation Inc. which is in memory of his great-grandson, Hunter where Mike was a proud board member. Donations can be made at https://www.facebook.com/share/185zKM3rZh/?mibextid=wwXIfr or Venmo: .

Arrangements have been entrusted to The Enea Ciaccia Family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Road Ilion, NY 13357.

Mike's obituary may be viewed on the funeral home website by visiting www.eneafamily.com.

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

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03/09/2026

TJ Tuzzolino

Theodore James Tuzzolino

November 17, 1971 - December 31, 2025

Theodore James Tuzzolino, 54 (better known to his family and friends as "TJ"), passed away unexpectedly with his loving wife Verenice by his side, following a long courageous battle with Multiple Sclerosis. MS might have won the war on his body, but he never let it kill his spirit. He was one of a kind, a fearless and caring person, and a great husband, father and son.

TJ was born in Herkimer, New York, where he attended Herkimer schools, after which he enrolled in and attended HCCC, followed by enrollment in Riverside School of Aeronautics in Marcy, NY. After completing his schooling, he moved West to live with his Uncle Ted and Aunt Karen in Ben Lomond, California. Several years later he moved to Quartzsite, Arizona, to be with friends, where he worked making and installing solar panels. His final move was to Oregon where he met and married his wife of 25 years, Verenice (Santoyo). TJ and Verenice made their home in Springfield, Oregon, with their son, Lee Ramon, a happy and loving family. One of T's proudest accomplishments was forming and presiding over a neighborhood watch, in conjunction with Oregon's Lane County Sheriff's Department.

He is survived by his wife and son, his mother, Barbara L. Netti, his aunts and uncles, Felicia Netti, Nick and Cheryl (Millar) Netti, Sal and Katy (Krenichyn) Netti, Ted and Donna Netti, and Scott and Sylvia (Netti) Lowell, as well as his great aunt Rita Orcutt, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.He was predeceased by his grandparents, Nicholas R. Netti and Josephine (Ciano) Netti, Karen (Goodman) Netti, and many family members and friends.

TJ was an avid fisherman and outdoorsman. He loved taking road trips, following the Grateful Dead, and spending time with his family and friends.His adventures (and misadventures) are far too many to list in this writing, and in accordance with his wishes a "Remember When" party is tentatively being planned for August 29, 2026, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the East Herkimer Fish and Game Club.

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03/09/2026

Donald G. Stannard

Mr. Donald George Stannard, age 91, a respected member of the Ilion community, passed away peacefully on Thursday morning, March 5, 2026, at Little Falls Hospital. Throughout his final days, he was surrounded by the support and devotion of his loved ones at his side.

Born in Bainbridge, NY on June 26, 1934, Donald was the son of the late Clifton and Harriette Gertrude (Petley) Stannard. He was raised and educated locally, graduating with the Frankfort High School Class of 1952. It was during this time that he would meet his lifelong sweetheart, Irene F. Kellogg.

Don proudly served his country with the United States Army, receiving his honorable discharge in 1958. He remained a proud patriot throughout his life and was a longstanding member of the Crowley-Barnum American Legion Post 25 in Mohawk.

On October 10, 1959, in St. Mary’s Church in Frankfort, Don was wed to the love of his life, Irene. Together they spent sixty-three years, enjoying travel, time with friends and family and cheering on their beloved NY Yankees. Their bond was inseparable and when Irene passed on November 16, 2022, a piece of Don’s heart went with her. The two are now reunited in their heavenly kingdom, along with their only child, Donald W. Stannard, who predeceased them in the summer of 2020.

Don was a hardworking man who had many adventures throughout his lifetime. After his military service, he was an apprentice with Bennett signs, eventually establishing his own business, along with his wife, Irene. The two operated Stannard Outdoor Advertising, where Don’s skills as a local sign artist shined.

Concurrently, he became a full-time fireman with the Ilion Fire Department. Lovingly known as “Dusty” he retired after twenty-five years of service to his department and his community.

During his retirement years, Don enjoyed time spent with Adirondack Scenic Railroad where he worked for ten years as a conductor and engineer.

Don’s engagement and dedication to his community was the thread that tied not only all of his work endeavors together but also played an integral role in his extracurricular involvement. He was a member of the Ilion Moose Club; an active member of the Troubadour Drum and Bugle Corps here in the Mohawk Valley; and a sixty-five-year Mason with the Olive Branch Masonic Lodge #40 in Ilion.

Don’s accomplishments were certainly plenty, but he will be most remembered for his kindness, thoughtfulness and overall friendly demeanor. He was a simple man who never had a bad word for anyone. He strived to be a loving husband, father, friend and neighbor and his legacy will forever live on in the community that he loved so dearly.

Don is survived by his friends and neighbors, whose generosity and love he would never forget: Vickie and John Pagnotta; Roland Hall; Cassandra Moitoso, whom Don lovingly called “Cassie” and her husband, Zachary; along with many friends and loved ones whose path Don crossed during his time on this earth.

He was predeceased by his parents; his beloved, Irene; his son, Donny; and his brother, Leslie U. Stannard.

Those wishing to pay their respects to Don are invited to attend his calling hours on Friday, March 13, 2026 from 3:00PM – 5:00PM at the Enea & Ciaccia Family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Road, Town of Frankfort, Ilion, NY (315) 894-8000.

His funeral service will commence at the funeral home at 5:00PM, immediately upon the conclusion of visitation, consisting of a Masonic ritualistic service and a Catholic prayer service, officiated by Don’s friend, Deacon Jim Bower. Spring interment with military honors will take place in Armory Hill Cemetery, where Don will be laid to rest with his wife and son.

For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial contributions to the Ilion Fire Department, Ambulance Fund, Central Fire Station, Ilion, NY 13357. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

Don’s final wishes were thoughtfully pre-arranged with the Enea, Ciaccia & Applegate funeral directors. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.eneafamily.com.

View Donald G. Stannard's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

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Business Office, 4309 Acme Road
Ilion, NY
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http://eneafuneralhomes.com/

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