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Houghtaling & Hanley Funeral Home Inc., 20 Otsego Street, Canajoharie, NY (2026)

09/03/2026

Gary Brown

Gary Brown, 88, of Fort Plain, passed away peacefully on September 2, 2026, at St. Johnsville Nursing Home.

Born on September 3, 1937, to the late Evan and Doris (Smith) Brown, Gary was a lifelong resident who attended St Johnsville Schools. Known for his hard work, he worked for the Town of Stark for 18 years after retiring he then drove truck part-time for Sprague Farms. His dedication extended to farming, where he contributed more than half his life at the Hensel's Farms, Mang's Farms, and Veit's Farms.

Of course, there were a few things that could pull Gary away from work: hunting and fishing, two pastimes he absolutely loved. For the past 30 years, he looked forward to the fall hunting season with Cheri, Jim, and family, and he found equal joy fishing with his brothers and family. Gary could tell a hunting story like no one else, bringing each adventure to life in a way that made you feel as though you had been right there beside him. Those stories, and the memories that came with them, will be greatly missed. He also enjoyed snowmobiling, bowling, watching NASCAR, engaging with CB radios, and delighting in tractor pulls. An early riser with a happy-go-lucky spirit, Gary cherished his family and dogs and was happiest living a simple life filled with the people and activities he loved.

On May 6, 1961, he married Pauline Rockwell at the St. Johnsville United Methodist Church, and they shared many wonderful years until her passing in 2013. Gary is also predeceased by his siblings, Linda, Leslie, Jacqueline, Sharon, Claudia, and Steven.

He is survived by daughters Paula "Teenie" Brown and Cheri Brown (Jim), son John "Spike" Brown (Kris), grandchildren Carri (Rich) and Sarena (Jessica), Marie Armstrong(Terry), Debbie Miller(Kenny), Katie Santoro(Anthony) and great-grandchildren Landon, Autumn, and Wyatt, Ben, Amanda, Andy, Riley, Colton, Levi and Lakyn. His beloved dogs, Ruby, Jasper, and Kittie D, were always by his side. Brothers Walter (Bernice), Philip (Toni), Russell (Billie Jo), Raymond (Karen), and Timothy (Patricia), sister Deborah, along with sister-in-law Michelle Brown, also mourn his passing.

Visiting hours will be held on September 9, 2026, from 4-7 PM at Houghtaling and Hanley Funeral Home, Canajoharie. A graveside service is scheduled for September 10, 2026, at 10 AM at West St. Johnsville Cemetery. After the inurnment, everyone is invited to Lombardo's Pizzeria in St. Johnsville for a reception starting at 11:30 AM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the NRA at NRA.org or your local gun club.

View Gary Brown's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/28/2026

Grace N. Downes

Grace Naomi Downes, of Canajoharie, passed away suddenly on August 27, 2026. She was 91.

Born in New York Hospital in Manhattan on March 5, 1935, to Edwin and Naomi (McElmon) Tudor, she spent her childhood on Long Island, moving upstate when she was fourteen. Immediately after graduating from Fort Plain High School in 1952, she married Harold Downes, whom she had met at church. They purchased a farm on Clinton Road in 1957, expanding it over the years.

When not supporting Harold in raising their family, Grace was active in various clubs and organizations, including the former Seebers Lane Grange, Farm Bureau and their women’s pro-ed group, Cross Trails Square Dance Club, Valley Choralairs, Canajoharie Senior Citizens and the Canajoharie-Fort Plain Garden Club. She was a long-time member of Salem United Methodist Church in Stone Arabia, where she taught Sunday School, Bible School, and for over thirty years was director of the Christmas Eve services.

Reading was Grace’s favorite activity, a love she developed in elementary school. She also enjoyed cards, music, cooking, baking, and game shows.

Grace was predeceased by her husband, Harold, her sister, Joyce Morley, and grandson Benjamin Smith. She is survived by her daughters Jill Erhardt (Dale), Kelly Casler (Varnum), and Penny Alden (Larry). She is also survived by son Blair (Louisa), seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Her sister, Alyce Moyer, and brother-in-law, David Morley, also survive her, as do many nieces and nephews.

Grace lived a long and full life and took joy in her loving marriage of seventy years.

Please consider Memorial Contributions to the Canajoharie Vol. Fire Dept., PO Box 28, Canajoharie, NY 13317.

The family will receive friends and relatives from 1:00-2:00 PM on Monday, August 31, 2026, with a funeral service at 2:00 at the Houghtaling and Hanley Funeral Home, 20 Otsego Street, Canajoharie, NY 13317.

The burial will take place at Evergreen Cemetery afterward.

View Grace N. Downes's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/23/2026

Dawn Virginia Shefczuk

Dawn Virginia Shefczuk, born on March 10, 1951, in Port Jefferson, Long Island, New York, passed away on August 22, 2026. Her life, imbued with quiet strength and steadfast dedication, left a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Dawn was a proud graduate of Jefferson High School on Long Island, marking the beginning of a lifetime distinguished by hard work and perseverance. After her marriage to John Shefczuk, Sr. on May 2, 1971, Dawn embarked on a journey grounded in family and community. Together, they nurtured a home filled with love and commitment.

Professionally, Dawn devoted many years to Loss Prevention and Security at the Wal-Mart Distribution Center in Sharon Springs, New York. In addition to her career, she played an essential role on the family dairy farm, demonstrating a work ethic that was both tireless and inspiring to those around her.

Dawn’s joy was found in simple, meaningful pursuits. She had a deep love for riding horses, finding peace and freedom in those moments. Her green thumb shone brightly in her passion for gardening and growing vegetables, a testament to her nurturing spirit and appreciation of nature’s cycles.

Above all, Dawn was devoted to her family. She is lovingly remembered by her daughters Tammy Jean, Natalia Ann, and Constance Diane; her son Michael Stanley; and her eight cherished grandchildren. Their lives are a reflection of her unwavering guidance and love.

Dawn was predeceased by her beloved husband, John Shefczuk, Sr., son, John Shefczuk, Jr., and Helen Virginia, whose presence in her life was deeply valued.

She will be remembered for her generosity of spirit, her dedication to family and work, and her quiet love for the beauty in everyday life. Dawn’s legacy lives on through her children and grandchildren, and through the many lives she touched along the way.

Her family and friends carry forward her memory with deep affection and gratitude, honoring a life well-lived and truly treasured.

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08/17/2026

Christine A. Eggleston

Christine A. Eggleston (née Oarr), beloved wife, mother, sister, teacher, and storyteller, departed this world on August 15, 2026, in Amsterdam, NY, after a prolonged illness. With her passing, a gentle light that touched countless lives has faded from view, though its glow will never leave those privileged to have known her.

Christine was born on September 18, 1952, in Amsterdam, NY—a city she would hold close throughout her life. From childhood, Christine’s curiosity and compassion were unmistakable. Her journey through education was marked by tenacity and an abiding love for learning: she graduated from Fort Plain High School, class of 1970, attended FMCC, where she earned her associate degree, a bachelor’s from Oneonta, and later a master’s from the College of St. Rose. Christine’s commitment to teaching reached national heights—she became nationally certified as a K–12 educator, affirming her dedication to children and the promise their futures held.

For many years, Christine devoted her talents to Lynch Middle School in Amsterdam, New York, guiding generations of young learners. Within her classroom's welcoming embrace, Christine was more than a teacher—she was a champion for every student, gently nurturing minds and imaginations. Her unwavering patience and warmth meant that the lessons students took away were not only those of textbooks, but also of kindness and possibility.

Christine’s passion for storytelling was boundless and enduring. As an accomplished author, she wrote more than 20 books, enchanting readers young and old with the “Murder in the Mohawk Valley” series and her children’s books. Through her vivid prose, she gifted children windows into magical worlds and familiar communities, ensuring her stories would become cherished companions on bedtime shelves and in eager hearts.

At home, Christine’s spirit was the gentle force around which her family flourished. She leaves behind her devoted husband, Gordon Eggleston, whose love was her anchor and constant. Their son, Matthew Eggleston, carries forward Christine’s boundless curiosity and kindness. Christine’s steadfastness and laughter remain a blessing in the lives of her sister, Kathleen Smith, and her brother, Steven Oarr.

Christine’s journey is now reunited with loved ones who went before her: her son, Gavin Eggleston; her parents, Clarence Oarr and Norma Smith Oarr; her brothers Brian and Alan Oarr. Their memories remain woven together with Christine’s, an everlasting tapestry of family bonds and love beyond bounds.

Those who knew Christine will forever recall her gentle encouragement, her joy in words and wisdom, and the comfort she gave so willingly. She believed every child should discover magic—whether in a story or a classroom lesson—and she shared that magic, quietly and generously, all her days.

Though Christine A. Eggleston’s voice is now silent, the echoes of her stories and her loving heart endure. In the warmth of cherished memories, in the lives of students she inspired, and in every page turned by a young reader, Christine’s legacy will remain radiant, always.

Interment will take place at a later date at the Fort Plain Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest with her son Gavin.

Arrangments are entrusted to Fort Plain Funeral Home, 34 Center Street, Fort Plain, NY 13339

View Christine A. Eggleston's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/14/2026

Wanda L. Gifford

Wanda L. Gifford, 62, was a lifetime resident of Canajoharie, NY. Wanda was born to Linda Willis Bouck on January 22, 1964, in Gloversville, NY. She died unexpectedly on August 12, 2026, in St. Mary’s Healthcare in Amsterdam, NY. A beloved Mother, Daughter, Sister, and best friend to many, Wanda is predeceased by Wendy Bouck, Ronald Bouck, Ronald Fraker, and Zaccaria Crankshaw. She is survived by her mother, Linda Bouck; two daughters, Kaylene Gifford and Briana Gifford; her sister, Janene Bouck; and four grandchildren, Kaiden, Ariana, Braelynn, and Skyla.

Wanda was raised by Ronald and Linda Bouck. She graduated from Canajoharie High School, class of 1982, then attended Oswego State University. She graduated from SUNY Albany with a bachelor’s in education focused on High School English.

Wanda was most recently employed as a caseworker at Montgomery County DSS. She previously worked as a substitute teacher and also enjoyed working for the Pennysaver Publication. Wanda shared a passion for cars with her father, Ronald Fraker, and after his passing, she owned and operated her own business, Credit on Cars.

Wanda celebrated life at every opportunity. She attended the Lutheran Church in Canajoharie. She enjoyed the beach and swimming, music and theater, and most of all her family and friends. Wanda was a trained lifeguard, a first-class Girl Scout cadet, and a talented bargain shopper and cook.

Wanda didn't like to sew, but she mended people. She didn't care about gardening, but she helped the people around her flourish like flowers. She could see the worst in people yet turn a blind eye.

Wanda had a gift for bringing people together and making everyone feel welcome and unjudged. She always found time for her family and friends, fitting everything in and happily changing anything to make it work.

Wanda worked diligently and played riskily; her gifts and flaws conflicted. She was carefree and trusting yet also guarded; she protected her family, girls, and grandchildren with zeal. She loved elephants because, like them, she lived for her family and held the memories and secrets of those she loved forever.

Wanda was always the life of the party, effortlessly making memories for everyone on her life’s journey. She didn't just live life; she embraced it. Underneath her lighthearted ways and twisted sense of humor was someone who loved deeply and passionately.

Wanda will forever be remembered and missed in our hearts.

Wanda's family will receive friends and relatives on Saturday, August 22, 2026, from 10:00-1:00 PM at the Houghtaling and Hanley Funeral Home, 20 Otsego Street, Canajoharie, NY 13317. The burial will take place privately at Evergreen Cemetery. Wanda’s celebration of Life will be held at the Johnstown Moose Club from 430pm to 730pm after graveside ceremonies.

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

08/14/2026

Joshua James Ryan

Joshua J. Ryan, 43, of St. Johnsville, NY, passed away suddenly on August 12, 2026.

Joshua was a jack of many trades. He was known for his love of hunting and telling tales. Josh loved being on the farm with his best friend Tom Nellis.

Joshua was predeceased by his mother, Aletha Ryan; grandfather, Harold (Hoppy) Frasier; and grandparents James and Mary Ryan.

Joshua is survived by his children, Tristen Ryan, Elizabeth Bailey, and Faith Ryan; his father, William (Judy) Ryan; sisters, Hope (Adam) Achzet, Brittany Mitchell, and Misty (Ryan) Dygert; grandmother Arleen Frasier; grandchildren Ashton, Delilah, and Wynston; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Cremation arrangements are under the care and direction of Fort Plain Funeral Home, 34 Center Street, Fort Plain, NY 13339.

The family will be having private services at a later date.

View Joshua James Ryan's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/08/2026

Robert V. Gardner

Robert V. Gardner, lovingly known to many as Bobby, passed away on August 5, 2026, in the Town of Johnstown, NY. Born on December 31, 1954, in Schenectady, NY, Robert’s life was characterized by warmth, steadfast devotion to those he loved, and an unwavering presence in the lives of family and friends.

Robert is survived by his mother, June Fiorillo Gardner, whose nurturing spirit influenced him throughout his life. He leaves behind his beloved son, Scott Gardner, who was a great source of pride and joy for Robert. The bond between Robert and his family extended to his brother, Marty Gardner, (Robin Jusenius), and his nieces and nephews: Danielle, Kyle Madison, Jeffrey Gardner, Jessica Gardner, and Francesca Gardner; also share in the fond memories and legacy Robert leaves behind.

Throughout his life, Robert cherished his relationships deeply. His family remembers him for his loyalty, practical wisdom, and gentle humor. Holidays, family gatherings, and ordinary days alike were enriched by Robert’s steadfast support and laughter—a source of comfort and inspiration through every season and circumstance.

Robert’s early years in Schenectady formed the solid foundation upon which he built a life full of meaning and commitment. His guiding presence will be deeply missed by all whose lives he touched, but his memory will continue to inspire those who were fortunate to know him.

Robert was predeceased by his father and his brother, James Gardner. Their memories remain an important part of the family’s story and legacy, now joined once more with Robert’s passing.

A devoted son, a loving father, a caring brother, uncle, and friend—Robert V. Gardner’s legacy is one of compassion, resilience, and grace. Though his absence leaves a profound void, the example he set and the love he shared will continue to guide his family and friends forward.

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08/03/2026

Russell M. Nare

Russell M. Nare, June 7, 1949 – August 2, 2026

Russell M. Nare, 77, passed away peacefully at his home on August 2, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on June 7, 1949, to the late Howard and Mauricette Nare, Russell spent his childhood growing up in Stone Arabia, New York, where he worked alongside his family on the Nare family farm. He attended Fort Plain Central School and carried with him throughout his life the strong work ethic and values he learned during those early years.

As an adult, Russell lived in Fort Plain, Florida, and Pennsylvania. He dedicated much of his career to the trucking and excavating industries, earning the respect of those who knew him for his hard work, dependability, and willingness to help others.

Russell was predeceased by his parents, Howard and Mauricette Nare; his sister, Deborah; his brother, Donald; and his beloved four-legged companion, Buster.

He is survived by his loving wife, Melinda Dillenback, with whom he shared many wonderful adventures traveling to North Carolina, Florida, and Alaska. Together they enjoyed making memories, spending time with friends, and embracing life’s adventures.

Russell also leaves behind his children: Jason (Michele) Nare, Chad (Erin) Nare, Curtis (Lindsey) Nare, Pamela Nare, Colleen (Doug) Johnson, Amanda Nare-Miranda, and Lisa Simmons.

He was a proud grandfather to Francesca, Joseph, Charlotte, McKay, Garret, Dawson, Elle, Darian, Alexandra, Rhianna, Addison, Brody, and Ava. He was also blessed with five great-grandchildren: Jettson, Dari’yonna, Za’khya, Rai’lynn, and Aja’Mae, each of whom brought him immense joy.

Russell also shared important chapters of his life with his former wives, Brenda Kakarapis, Nancy Darling, and Beth Siuta.

“Good lookin Russ” will always be remembered for his wonderful sense of humor, his playful teasing, and his gift for telling stories that could make anyone laugh. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends and never missed an opportunity to share a joke or reminisce about days gone by. His warmth, laughter, and larger-than-life personality will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

His legacy lives on through the family he cherished, the friendships he cultivated, and the many memories that will continue to be shared for years to come.

The family will receive friends and relatives on Friday, August 7th, 2026, from 5:00-7:00 PM, at the Houghtaling and Hanley Funeral Home, 20 Otsego Street, Canajoharie, NY 13317. A short service will conclude the visitation. A private burial will take place with the family at a later time.

View Russell M. Nare's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

07/28/2026

Francis Ponte, Jr.

Mr. Francis Ponte, Jr., 64, of Palatine Bridge, NY, passed away following a battle with health issues on July 28, 2026, at Ellis Hospital, Schenectady, NY. He was born on July 24, 1952, in Fall River, Massachusetts, the son of Francis Ponte, Sr., who predeceased him, and Lydia Rego Ponte, who survives.

He attended schools in Massachusetts and Fort Plain.

Most recently, he worked as a bus driver for Browns Transportation in Fonda, NY.

His adult life was spent here locally, with his youth being spent in Fall River, Massachusetts.

Besides being with family and friends, he enjoyed racing and scrapping.

He was predeceased by his father, Francis Ponte, Sr, on August 21, 1999.

Survivors include his mother, Lydia Ponte; daughter Susan Parese; son Francis"Frankie" Ponte III; Courtney Ponte; and Nicole "Nikki" Ponte; 4 sisters Deborah Hoyer, Anne Ponte, Cheryl Ponte, and Roxanne Brundige; 4 brothers William Ponte, Kenneth Ponte, Raymond Ponte, and Albert Ponte; grandchildren, Gemma, Grayson, Karim, Thameenah, Abdullah, Abdul, Rahman, Amaini, Haneen, Hanan, and Hadi; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family will be receiving friends and relatives on Monday, August 3rd, 2026 from 4:00-7:00 PM at Houghtaling and Hanley Funeral Home, 20 Otsego Street, Canajoharie, NY 13317. A celebration of life is being planned for a later date.

The family asks anyone wishing to make a memorial contribution in his memory to do so to a charity of their choice.

View Francis Ponte, Jr.'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

07/16/2026

Richard P. Weinheimer, Sr.

Richard P. Weinheimer, Sr., 92, of High Street in Fort Plain, passed away on Monday, July 13, 2026, at the Wilkinson Center Nursing Home in Amsterdam. He was born on Monday, May 21, 1934, in Little Falls, the son of Peter and Augusta (Wolfrum) Weinheimer. Richard attended Little Falls High School and Fort Plain High School. He served his country bravely and enlisted in the US Air Force, serving from 1955 to 1960. He later earned his GED after leaving the military. After that, he earned his certificate in drafting from Herkimer Community College. He went to work for the Palatine Dyeing Company until 1974. After that, he started working for GE as a draftsman and then split his time between there and the Knolls Atomic Power Lab for many years until he retired in 2000.

Richard was a lifetime member of the Christ Lutheran Church in Little Falls, NY. In his spare time, he enjoyed woodworking, tinkering with cars, and collecting tools. He also collected 1950's music records. His favorite pastime was going to the movies. He was a movie checker and conducted box office counting. He got to see many first-run movies.

On July 4, 1959, at the Cathedral in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico, Richard married the love of his life, Josefa Antonia Torres-Dulibre. Together, they celebrated 54 years of marriage.

Josefa predeceased him on June 3, 2014. He is also predeceased by his daughter, Joanna Marie Tibold, an infant brother, Theodore, his mother, Augusta, in 2007, and his step-father, Gustav Florian, in 1989. Survivors include his son, Richard P. (Karen) Weinheimer, Jr. of Amsterdam, his grandchildren, Emma Weinheimer, Richard Weinheimer, Christian Weinheimer, John Weinheimer, William Weinheimer, Charles Weinheimer, and Ava Soley, and great-grandchildren, Charlotte Weinheimer, Leonardo Weinheimer, Ares Weinheimer, and Emmett Soley.

Visiting hours will be held on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, from 6-8 PM at the Fort Plain Funeral Home, 34 Center Street, Fort Plain, NY 13339. A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at 1:00 PM at the Rural Park Cemetery in Ingam Mills, where Richard will be laid to rest next to his wife.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Richard's name to the American Cancer Society, www.cancer.org.

The Fort Plain Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. You may go to www.houghtalingandhanley.com to leave condolences for the family.

View Richard P. Weinheimer, Sr.'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Houghtaling & Hanley Funeral Home Inc.

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