Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home

04/25/2026

Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home is a proud Corporate Sponsor of St. Francis De Sales Early Childhood Learning Center’s Spring Soirée. This is a spectacular event, hosted right here in Ilion at Francesca’s Banquet Hall, for the benefit of the students and the wonderful school they attend. There’s still time to get your tickets for tonight’s event! It is a fun evening of food, drinks, auctions and prizes. Hope to see you there!

04/23/2026

Beverly A. Sestir

Ilion - Beverly Ann Sestir, 71, of Ilion, passed away on April 22nd, 2026, after a brief illness.

Beverly was born on November 10th, 1954, in Little Falls Hospital, the daughter of Chester and Mary (Ring) Bialock. She attended Little Falls Schools, graduating in 1973.

She continued her education at SUNY Morrisville, graduating with an Associates in Nursing Degree. She began her nursing career in Syracuse but quickly found her true calling at the Mohawk Valley Nursing Home (now the Grand) in Ilion. She held a variety of positions including charge nurse and nursing manager, eventually retiring as a Dayhab specialist after more than 40 years. She took pride in her 40 years of service award presented by The Grand.

On August 18th, 1979, she married the love of her life, Frank Sestir, at Annunciation Church in Ilion. They shared a beautiful 46-year marriage filled with mutual respect and caring. They had 2 children, Craig and Steve, who were their pride and joy. Bev never missed a sporting event for her boys, enthusiastically cheering not only for them but for their teammates as well. Her dedication extended beyond her own family; she was actively involved in the PTA at Barringer Road Elementary School, always supporting her children and their community. That same passion carried on into her role as a grandmother. She adored her grandson and made it a priority to attend every concert, soccer game, and baseball game she possibly could. Being present—fully and joyfully—was one of her greatest gifts.

Bev was someone who brought people together, created lifelong memories, and filled every room with warmth. She was an amazing friend to many and made friendships a priority throughout her life. Annual girls’ trips were a treasured tradition, filled with laughter, adventure, and stories that lasted long after the trips ended. She also loved to travel with her husband and children, as well as with the many groups of friends she held dear. She and Frank were proud snowbirds, spending 16 years traveling annually to Myrtle Beach. Those winters in the sun, surrounded by friends and relaxation, were among her happiest times.

Bev's heart was forever tied to Kyser Lake and the camp she grew up in—a place renovated by her father, Chet, and filled with family history and meaning. Summers were often spent on the boat, enjoying the lake she adored and the company of those she loved most. Whether at Kyser Lake or at home, she was known for her legendary happy hour slush, often enjoyed poolside and always shared generously.

A truly exceptional chef, Bev took great joy in cooking for her extended family and friends. Her meals were an expression of love, and her table was always open. One of her most cherished traditions was her annual Fourth of July party, a gathering so memorable it became legendary. Friends and family looked forward to it every year, knowing it would be filled with great food, laughter, and togetherness.

Surviving is her loving husband, Frank, her sons and daughters-in-law Craig and Tiffany Sestir and Steve and Kali Sestir, all of Ilion. She is also survived by her adored grandson Gavin Stefanski, and her fur grandchildren Fish, Destiny, Onyx, Jade and Slendy. Additionally, Bev is survived by her beloved cousins Joan (Ryan) Piper, Patricia (Harvey) Gibson, and Ann (Robert) Parmely, along with their families. She had a close relationship with her brother-in-law Jim Sestir and his partner Donna Bonk. Also surviving are cousins Monica (Fred) Peek, Marian Grandy, Patty Accattato, and Frank (Valerie) Sestir, Ricky (Judy) Zilkowski, Gary Zilkowski, Scott Wright and Jodi Fremour, along with other cousins and family.

Bev is also survived by many loving friends, including her incredibly close girlfriends Linda (Allen) Edick, Teresa (Leigh) Frye, Lyla (Bob) Palmer, & Pam Vandawalker, and good friends Jake Putch and Lisa Lamica.

She was predeceased by her parents, Chester and Mary Bialock, and Frank's parents, Joseph and Vivian Sestir. Additionally, she was predeceased by her sister-in-law Carol Sestir, along with friends Roger Vandawalker and Marsha Wheeler.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend calling hours at Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego Street, Ilion, New York, from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM on Wednesday, April 29th.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, April 30th beginning at 10:30 am at the Church of the Annunciation in Ilion, with internment immediately following at St. Mary's Cemetery in the town of Herkimer. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Wanderer's Rest Humane Society (7138 Sutherland Dr, Canastota, NY 13032) or Rover's Do Over (2528 Southside Rd., Frankfort, NY 13340).

Above all, Bev will be remembered for her love of life, her loyalty to family and friends, and the joy she brought to others simply by being herself. Her legacy lives on in her family, the friendships she nurtured, and the memories she leaves behind. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by those who were lucky enough to know and love her.

To leave condolences for Bev’s family, please visit www.whiter-hendrix.com.

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04/22/2026

Karen J. Gardeski

Clinton - Karen Gardeski, 65, of Clinton, New York passed away on Friday, April 17th, 2026, after a long battle with kidney failure and its complications. A devoted daughter, mother, and wife, the loss of her presence will be felt deeply, and for many years to come.

Born in Syracuse, New York, on November 20th, 1961, Karen and her twin sister were adopted by Annabelle and Walter Rhodes of Canastota, New York.

Early in her adult life, Karen worked as a Nurse’s Aide at Faxton Hospital in Utica, New York. She left this position to focus on raising her son and daughter, before returning to her schooling through SUNY Oneonta to receive her Bachelor’s in Elementary Education in 2005. She later worked with the Children’s Dyslexia Center Central New York and loved her tenure there.

Karen loved the Lord with every part of her being. She attended and was a pillar of her church community, at Redeemer Church in Utica, New York for the last forty-five years.

Karen loved her family deeply, and kept her friends close to her heart even in hard times. You could find her any given Tuesday or Thursday having coffee with her best friend of 40+ years. She considered spending a day with her family, and her dog, Max, to be the best kind of day.

She is survived by her loving husband of 41 years, Glen Gardeski; her son and daughter, whom she loved deeply, Scott and Melissa Gardeski; Twin Sister, Kelly Dinunzio; and Mother, Annabelle Rhodes. She was preceded in death by her father, Walter Rhodes; and her two brothers, Keith and Kevin Rhodes.

Karen’s Celebration of Life will be held at 3pm on Sunday, April 26th, 2026, at Redeemer Church in Utica, New York. Redeemer Church is located at 931 Herkimer Rd. Utica, NY.

In lieu of flowers, Karen’s family has requested that donations be made to the Children’s Dyslexia Center Central New York – Checks can be made out to Children’s Dyslexia Center Central New York (CDC CNY 103 for short) and sent to the Center at PO Box 638, 8280 Rt. 69, Oriskany, NY 13424.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego Street, Ilion, NY 13357.

To leave condolences for Karen’s family, please visit www.whiter-hendrix.com.

View Karen J. Gardeski's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/18/2026

John Newell

FRANKFORT – Mr. John Newell, 86, of Frankfort, passed away peacefully on April 16, 2026, at the Wynn Hospital in Utica, with his loving family by his side.

He was born on June 3, 1939, in Adamsville, Tennessee, the son of the late Vannie and Donnie (Younger) Newell. He was educated and subsequently enlisted in the United States Army, having proudly served his country from his enlistment date in 1960 until his Honorable discharge in 1966.

On August 4, 1976, he was united in marriage to Freida Catalano in New York Mills, sharing many years of love and companionship until her passing on October 27, 2023.

For over thirty years, John worked as a mail clerk with the United States Post Office, Utica, New York. He retired in 2002. Prior to that he worked at Sears for some time as a mechanic.

He was a Past Commander of the Ilion American Legion Post #920, and a longtime member of the St. Francis DiPaolo Society. He truly enjoyed fishing and hunting, as well as planting his garden, and although not a major sports fan he enjoyed the Boston Red Sox.

John is survived by his beloved children, Jennifer Newell-Blaise of Florida, Sheila Messina of Ilion, and Constance Messina of Windham, NH, his grandchildren, Cara Messina and her daughter Summer Whaley, Gunner Blaise and his son Kian, Cody Messina, Joshua Olivero, Julie Santiago, Constance Santiago, Jorge and Seaklong Santiago-Yin, Jason Messina, Kayla Messina, Matthew Messina, Timothy Messina, and Chelsea Messina; his in laws, Michael Alekel of Methuen, MA, Carmelina Cobbett of Bradford, MA, Stephen Catalano and his wife Luda of Lake Worth, FL, Rose Anderson of Green Acres, FL, Mary Ann and her husband Michael Goes of Pelham, NH, and Anthony Catalano and his wife Nancy of Deerfield, NH, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. His sisters and brothers included Anne, Wilma, Hattie, Berta, Lois, James, and Harttle.

He was predeceased by one son, Stephen Messina, his son-in-law, Brian Blaise, and his in laws, Sebastian Catalano, Angie Alekel, and Chuck Cobbett.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, from 4-6 p.m. at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego Street in Ilion. A funeral service will immediately follow at 6 p.m. at the funeral home, with Rev. Paul Catena, officiating. John will be laid to rest with Military Honors in Gerald B. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at 11:30 a.m.

The following organizations are respectfully asked to gather at the funeral home at the following times: St. Francis DiPaolo Society at 5 p.m., and the Ilion American Legion Post at 5:45 p.m.

At the conclusion of all funeral services on Wednesday evening, the family invites all relatives and friends to celebrate John’s life at the St. Francis DiPaolo Society, 152 Eighth Avenue in Frankfort, New York, where John always enjoyed a beer with his buddies.

The family extends their sincerest appreciation to Natalie, their very special nurse from the Wynn Hospital.

It is the wish of the family that memorial contributions in loving memory of John be consider to Catholic Charities of Herkimer County, 61 West Street, Ilion, New York 13357. www.ccherkimercounty.org.

To leave condolences for John’s family, please visit www.whiter-hendrix.com.

View John Newell's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/17/2026

Terry Ann Brower

Ilion - Terry A. Brower, 71, of Ilion, passed away peacefully on April 15, 2026, at Wynn Hospital in Utica after her brief but courageous battle with cancer.

She was born on February 19, 1955, in Ilion, the daughter of the late Merle Moore and Mildred Holland. Terry was raised and educated in Ilion Schools and remained a lifelong resident of the community she loved.

On May 14, 1977, Terry was united in marriage to Keith Brower at the Church of the Annunciation in Ilion, sharing many years of love and devotion together.

Terry dedicated her career to caring for others as a Licensed Practical Nurse at the Folt's Home in Herkimer. Her compassion and commitment to her patients left a lasting impact on all those she served.

Terry found her greatest joy in the simple moments of life. She was a devoted New York Yankees fan who rarely missed a game, and she treasured summers spent at the family camp, "Kokomo." She loved cooking for her family, especially preparing her famous homemade macaroni and cheese, and took great pride in bringing everyone together around the table. Terry also had a deep affection for her pets, whom she adored.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Keith Brower; her children, Kelly Ann Brower of Ilion, Kati Ellis of Herkimer, Lori Brower and her partner, Jared Thompson of Dolgeville, Rebecca and Joe Reynolds of New Hartford, and Pam and Cody Streeter of Fairfield. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren, Darien, Emily, Gavin, Jordyn, Landon, Gabe, Sienna, Kellan, Cody, Jr., and Lucas; and her great-grandchild, Henry. Terry is also survived by her lifelong friend, Kathy Castella of Ilion.

A memorial Mass will be held on Tuesday, April 28, 2026 at 9:30 am, in the Church of the Annunciation in Ilion, with Father Paul Catena, officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego Street, Ilion, NY 13357.

To leave condolences for Terry's family, please visit www.whiter-hendrix.com.

View Terry Ann Brower's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/16/2026

SERVICE INFORMATION UPDATE: A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026 at 11:00 am in the Mohawk Reformed Church, with Rev. Brian Engel, officiating.

View Louella V. Matousek's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/01/2026

Jason Scott Laporta

Ilion - Jason Scott LaPorta, 31, a lifelong resident of Ilion, NY, passed away on March 30, 2026, at Bassett Healthcare in Cooperstown.

Jason was born on October 26, 1994, in New Hartford, a son of Rhonda Parker LaPorta and the late James LaPorta. He was a graduate of Ilion High School and spent his life in the Ilion community he called home and he was an avid fan of mystery shows.

Jason is survived by his loving mother, Rhonda LaPorta; his brothers and sisters-in-law, James and Lyane LaPorta of Colorado, and Patrick Rendich and his wife, Janelle, of Oregon; and his sister, Heather Duesler of Herkimer. He is also survived by his aunts and uncles, Crystal and Ricardo Zubrzycki, Brian Parker, and David Parker and his companion, Dawn Frasier. Jason shared a special bond with his close friend, Thomas Groom, who was like a brother to him. He also leaves behind his favorite nephew, Deven LaPorta, along with several additional nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his father, James LaPorta; his brother, John Parker; and his grandmother, Janet Smith.

In keeping with Jason's wishes, there will be no public services. He will be laid to rest in Armory Hill Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St., Ilion.

To leave condolences for Jason's family, please visit www.whiter-hendrix.com.

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03/24/2026

Jacob L. Cooper

Colonel Jacob L. Cooper (Ret.), USAF, entered into rest on January 1st, 2026 in Clarence Center, NY, at the age of 101.

He was born in Ilion, NY on January 28th,1924 to Charles and Ruth Cooper, who both immigrated from the Netherlands in 1911 and 1912, respectively. He was the 5th child of 8 siblings.

Col. Cooper was a 1941 graduate of Ilion High School. In August of 1942, he was sworn into the United States Army Air Force. After completing nine months of flight training, on November 3rd, 1943, he was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant and awarded his Silver Pilot Wings.

He became a fighter pilot and joined the 493rd Fighter Squadron of the 48th Fighter Group, a part of the 9th Air Force in the European Theater of Operations.

During the war, he flew the P-47 Thunderbolt, completing a total of 98 missions. He earned several medals, including the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Air Medal with fifteen Oak Clusters.

He received the former for extraordinary achievement in aerial flight while leading a squadron of eight planes in an attack on a column of enemy trucks and tanks, returning alone despite intense anti- aircraft fire to make numerous strafing passes, with telling effect, until his ammunition was exhausted.

Following the war, he remained in the Air Force Reserves and worked at Re*****on Arms factory back in Ilion, NY.

He was married to the late Marion L. Cooper (Day) of Ilion, NY from July 1946 until her death in 1978. They had two sons, James (Jim) and Scott Cooper.

Col. Cooper was called back to active duty in 1953, and the military family moved frequently during this time. He was stationed in Duluth, MN, Anchorage, AK, Syracuse, NY, North Bay, Ontario, Canada, and Newburgh, NY, where he retired after over 28 years of service and then returned to Ilion, NY.

He later went on to marry the late Sophia Castimore and moved to Cheektowaga, NY, where he resided until her passing.

During his retirement, he organized reunions for his fellow members of the 493rd Fighter Squadron from World War II. They met every other year for several years. He compiled and edited a 290 page book called "The 493rd Fighter Squadron in World War II", as well as wrote an autobiography and a book about his parents' lives and their heritage.

He was an avid golfer, gardener, and a regular spectator at his granddaughters' sporting events.

In recent years, he traveled to local clubs and senior facilities to give talks about his experience in the war.

Col. Cooper is survived by his two sons, James (Jim) and Scott, his daughter-in-law, Maria Cooper, three granddaughters, Amy, Megan, and Allison Cooper, as well as many nephews, nieces, and great-nephews and nieces.

Though he never sought recognition, Col. Cooper's impact has been profound. Beloved by many and devoted to his service in the Air Force, he leaves behind a legacy of quiet strength, inspiration, and unwavering dedication. In the eyes of his family, who love him dearly, he was truly a hero, whose legacy will live on through them.

Calling hours will be held on May 29, 2026 from 11am-12:30pm in the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St. in Ilion. A memorial service will immediately follow at 12:30pm at the funeral home. Interment with Military Honors will take place in Armory Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Gary Sinise Foundation or the Wounded Warrior Project.

To leave condolences for Jacob's family, please visit www.whiter-hendrix.com

View Jacob L. Cooper's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/20/2026

Barbara Singleterry

Troy - Ilion - Ms. Barbara Singleterry, 72, of Ilion and formerly of Troy, NY, passed away on March 17, 2026 in the Grand Rehabilitation & Nursing in Ilion.

She will be laid to rest in Forest Hill Cemetery in Utica. Arrangements are under the direction of the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St. Ilion, NY 13357.

To leave condolences, please visit www.whiter-hendrix.com

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03/19/2026

Debra Ann Palmer

Herkimer - Debra Ann Palmer, 64, of Herkimer, passed away peacefully at her home on March 16, 2026, with her loving family by her side.

Born on August 5, 1961, in Cooperstown, Deb was the daughter of the late Grant and Donna Farley-Mower Palmer. Affectionately known by many as "Mamadukes," she was a source of comfort, strength, and unconditional love to all who knew her. She attended Richfield Springs schools and graduated with the class of 1979.

Deb dedicated many years of her life to caring for others as a Certified Nursing Assistant at the Masonic Care Community, where her compassion and gentle spirit left a lasting impact on residents and colleagues alike.

She shared more than 20 loving years with her devoted partner, Anthony Seymour, who was truly the love of her life. Together, they built a life filled with care, laughter, and unwavering support.

Deb is survived by her beloved partner, Anthony Seymour of Herkimer; her children, Randy Decker of Cold Brook, Noelle Palmer of Rome, and Anthony Seymour of Herkimer; as well as many cherished grandchildren who brought her immense pride and joy. She is also survived by her brothers, Brad Palmer and Gary Palmer; her life sister, Tanya Cummings; and her chosen daughter, Heather Pryor.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her children, Amber Palmer and Brian Seelbach; her brother, Grant Palmer; and her sister, Jean Palmer.

Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, March 24th from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego Street, Ilion, NY 13357. Deb will be laid to rest in Armory Hill Cemetery later in the spring.

To leave condolences for Deb's family, please visit www.whiter-hendrix.com.

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03/17/2026

Harry L. Walker

Herkimer - Harry L. Walker, 92, of Herkimer, passed away peacefully on March 15, 2026 at Valley Health Services.

He was born on October 9, 1933, the son of the late Clint and Caroline Adams Walker. Harry was united in marriage to the love of his life, Janet Graham, on January 1, 1956, at the Protestant Church in Riverside, Rhode Island. They shared 69 years together until her passing last year.

Harry was a graduate of East Providence High School, class of 1951, and continued his education at the Rhode Island Electronics School. He proudly served his country in the United States Coast Guard from 1952 until his Honorable Discharge in 1955, during which time he was stationed throughout New England and in New Bedford, Massachusetts.

Following his service, Harry began a long and dedicated career with General Electric in Utica, where he worked as a Test Equipment Engineer for 32 years before retiring in 1989.

Harry is survived by his son, Larry Walker of Wyoming and two grandchildren, Alexandra Walker and Lindsay Brenneke. In addition to his parents and his beloved wife, Janet, he was predeceased by a son, Stephen Walker and a daughter, Terry Walker.

In keeping with Harry's wishes, there will be no public services. Arrangements are under the direction of the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St., Ilion, NY. Harry will be laid to rest with Janet in Forest Hill Cemetery in Utica.

To leave condolences for Harry's family, please visit www.whiter-hendrix.com

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