Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home

10/27/2026

Joyce Hagan

Ilion, NY – Joyce Hagan, 81, of Ilion, passed away peacefully on October 27, 2026, in Ilion.

She was born on July 3, 1945, a daughter of the late Henry and Margaret Williams. Our mother spent her life raising us children with kindness and compassion, always found in her embrace. We see the light of heaven shining when we think of her beautiful face.

She is survived by her beloved family, children, Timothy Hagan and his wife Dee Dee, Laura Dillon and her husband Pat, Thomas Hagan and his wife Elizabeth, Dawn Hagan Wheeler, Tammy Griffiths and her husband Joe, and Sherrie Rowland and her husband Michael. Also, 18 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and her longtime friend Martin Waldron.

She is predeceased by her husband, Thomas Hagan, her son, Todd Hagan, and her grandson, Todd Pickett.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, October 28, 2026 at 6 pm at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St., Ilion, NY 13357, with Deacon James Bower officiating. Calling hours will be held from 4:30 pm until the time of the service at the funeral home.

To leave condolences for the Hagan family, please visit www.whiter-hendrix.com.

View Joyce Hagan's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/23/2026

Louis F. Frezza

Ilion - Louis F. Frezza, 88, of Ilion, passed away peacefully on October 22, 2026, at Bethany Gardens in Rome.

He was born on May 23, 1938, in Little Falls, a son of the late Louis L. and Viola Cirasunda Frezza. Louis attended St. Mary's School in Little Falls and graduated from Herkimer High School. He proudly served in the United States Army and was honorably discharged, continuing his service in the United States Army Reserves.

Louis worked in the Shipping Department at the Library Bureau and later served as a police officer with the Herkimer Police Department. Most recently, he was employed in the Maintenance Department with the Masonic Home in Utica.

On August 11, 1990, he married Nancy Gutheinz in Ilion.

Louis is survived by his wife, Nancy Frezza of Ilion; his beloved children, Vicki Luppino and her husband, William, of Utica, Susan Frezza of Frankfort, and Michael Frezza and his wife, Jennifer, of Frankfort; his step-daughter, Traci Stafford and her husband, Howard of North Bay, NY; his step-son, Brian Walker and his wife, Michelle of Ilion and his brother, Paul Frezza of Herkimer.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, October 29, 2026 at 6 pm at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St., Ilion, NY 13357, with Pastor Josh Lange officiating. Calling hours will be held from 5:00 pm until the time of the service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Louis' memory may be made to the Herkimer County Humane Society, 514 NY-5S, Mohawk, NY 13407.

Louis' family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to the Nurses and Staff at Bethany Gardens in Rome for the kindness and compassion shown to him.

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

View Louis F. Frezza's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/23/2026

John Franklin Nelson

Mohawk, NY - John F. Nelson, 77, of Mohawk, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at the Abraham House in Rome, with his beloved children by his side.

John was born on March 3, 1949, in Ilion, a son of the late Thomas and Gladys (Cooley) Nelson. He was raised in Ilion and graduated from Ilion High School with the Class of 1968. Following graduation, he continued his education at Paul Smith's College, where he studied Environmental Science and Forestry.

In 1980, John began a distinguished career with the New York State Police, proudly serving as a New York State Trooper for 20 years until his retirement in 2000. His years in law enforcement reflected his dedication to public service and his commitment to the communities he served.

Never one to remain idle, John pursued his passion for electrical work following his retirement, establishing his own business, Nelson Electric. He took great pride in his work and found tremendous satisfaction in operating his business, a venture that allowed him to continue doing something he truly enjoyed.

John had a deep appreciation for the great outdoors and was happiest when surrounded by nature. Whether fishing, hunting, boating, or simply soaking up the sunshine, he embraced every opportunity to be outside. A true sun worshiper, John never missed a chance to enjoy a beautiful, sunny day. Among his most treasured traditions were his annual fishing trips to Cape Cod with his friends. These trips brought him tremendous joy, filled with good fishing, great company, laughter, and memories that would last a lifetime. For John, there was little better than being on the water, enjoying the sunshine, and sharing those moments with the people he loved.

Above all else, John cherished his family. His children and grandchildren held a special place in his heart, and the love they shared was a constant throughout his life. His family will forever treasure the memories they made together and the lasting influence he had on their lives.

John leaves behind his three beloved children, Julie Matt and her husband, Steven, of Utica; Scott Nelson and his companion, Dentiny Leroy, of Mohawk; and Sarah Nelson and her companion, Christopher Gleason, of Mohawk. He also leaves his cherished grandchildren, Hannah, Billy, Travis, Emily, Tayler and Ellie; and his great-grandchildren, Phoebe and Ace. John is also survived by his siblings, Janice Nelson of Florida and Dana Nelson of South Carolina.

He was predeceased by his parents, Thomas and Gladys Nelson, and his twin brother, Tommy Nelson.

John will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his years of dedicated service, his independent spirit, and, most importantly, the love he had for his family. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

A gathering of remembrance of John's life will be held on Saturday, October 31, 2026, from 12:00 noon until 4:00 p.m. at the Waterfront Grill in Herkimer. All who knew and loved John are warmly invited to attend, share memories, and celebrate a life well lived.

John's family wishes to extend their most heartfelt gratitude to John Slopnick and Gary Norman for their friendship, kindness, and unwavering support. Your thoughtfulness and the special place you held in John's life will never be forgotten. Please know how deeply your friendship has been appreciated and how much it has meant to John and his family.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations in John's memory to Hospice & Palliative Care of New Hartford, 4277 Middle Settlement Rd, New Hartford, NY 13413 or to the Abraham House of Rome, 417 N Washington St, Rome, NY 13440.

To leave condolences or share a special memory with John's family, please visit www.whiter-hendrix.com.

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

10/08/2026

Daniel Gerard Dillon

Town of Danube - Daniel G. Dillon, 35, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, October 2, 2026.

He was born on May 22, 1991, in Torrington, Connecticut, a son of Sharon Nelson Hamilton and David Dillon. Daniel attended Little Falls schools.

He is survived by his wife, Tina; his mother, Sharon Nelson Hamilton; his father, David Dillon and his wife, Robin; his older brothers, Jeremiah Dillon and his spouse, Thayza, Jerome Dillon, and David Dillon and his significant other, Donna Lyzenga; as well as many nieces and nephews.

He is also survived by his father in law, Hubert Farber and his wife, Robin and his sister-in-law, Hollie Farber Preston and her husband, Robert Preston.

Dan was a hard worker, a loving husband and a devoted friend who lived every day as if it were his last. He took great pride in his work and in owning his own business. He wasn't afraid of hard work and always gave everything he had. But beyond his work, what mattered most to him was the people and animals he loved.

He was the best friend anyone could ask for. No matter the day or time, if someone needed him, he was there. He was the person you could call without hesitation, knowing he would show up and do whatever he could to help. His loyalty and willingness to be there for others were simply part of who he was.

He loved the outdoors and all the adventures that came with it. Hunting, fishing, and sitting around a campfire were some of his favorite ways to spend his time. He especially loved the Fourth of July and took great pride in putting on the biggest and best fireworks show he could, creating memories that will forever be remembered by those who shared those nights with him.

He had a special place in his heart for his "boys", Atticus and Comet, and his cats, Tom Cat and Puss. His love for them was unconditional. He loved to spoil his nieces and nephews. He went by many nicknames, uncle Dan, Miller, Gertrude and so many others. He lived life on his own terms, loved deeply, worked hard, helped anyone who needed him, and never took a day for granted. He leaves behind a lifetime of memories and a hole in the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Though his time here was much too short, he made every day count. His laughter, his kindness, his stubbornness, his love of the outdoors and the memories he created will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. He will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and never forgotten.

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

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

View Daniel Gerard Dillon's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

09/30/2026

Colleen L. Woods

Ilion - Colleen Woods, of Ilion, New York, passed away on September 28, 2026 at Bassett Medical Center following a brief illness.

Born and raised in Albany, New York, Colleen lived a life marked by kindness, hard work, and a genuine concern for others. She was thoughtful by nature and always took an interest in the people around her.

Family was at the heart of who she was. Colleen loved cooking, especially preparing large family dinners and bringing everyone together for holidays and special occasions. She also enjoyed spending time with family over card games and board games.

Colleen had a lifelong love of animals and shared her home over the years with many beloved pets. In recent years, her cats Todd and Charlie held a particularly special place in her heart.

During her working years, Colleen served as a secretary at Sonny's Truck Repairs. She and her family later moved to the Ilion area after purchasing a dairy farm, where she, Irving, and their children worked together as a family. After their years on the farm, Colleen worked at the Herkimer County Cheese Factory for many years.

Colleen is survived by her beloved children, Deborah Slowik, William "Sonny" Klink and his wife, Ruth, and Richard Klink, as well as her many cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her first husband, Irving C. Klink, with whom she raised their family; her children, Irving Klink, Edward Klink, Timothy Klink, Pamela Peplinski, and Mark Klink; and her brothers and sisters.

Colleen will be remembered most for the care she showed others, the importance she placed on family, and the warmth of the home and gatherings she created for the people she loved.

In keeping with Colleen's wishes, there will be no public services. Arrangements are under the direction of the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St. Ilion, NY 13357.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Colleen's memory may be made to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

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

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

09/28/2026

Marie M. Powell

ILION - Marie M. Powell, 97, of Ilion, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 25, 2026, at Valley Health Services in Herkimer.

Marie was born on July 20, 1929, in Quebec, Canada, the daughter of the late William and Dora (Spraker) McGraw. She attended Ilion schools and later pursued a career in healthcare, becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse. Marie was employed through Manpower at Mohawk Valley Hospital for 25 years, dedicating herself to the care of others until her retirement in 1984.

On April 3, 1948, Marie was united in marriage to Francis G. Powell at the Church of the Annunciation in Ilion. Together, they shared 25 years of marriage until Francis' passing on August 8, 1973.

Marie was a longtime communicant of the Church of the Annunciation in Ilion.

She is survived by her two daughters, Phyllis Guido of Mohawk and Janis Wright and her partner Nicholas Norod of Frankfort; her six grandchildren; Lisa and James Frank of Whitesboro, Theresa Appler and her partner Eli Wolford of Blossvale, Louis Guido of Ft. Herkimer, Preston Wright of Frankfort, Corey Guido and his partner, Denise Lee of Rome and Craig Wright of Frankfort and eleven great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren.

Marie was predeceased by her beloved husband, Francis, as well as her parents, William and Dora McGraw and her son in law, Louis Guido.

In keeping with Marie's wishes, there will be no public calling hours. Marie will be laid to rest with her beloved husband, Francis, privately at the convenience of her family. Arrangements are under the direction of the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego Street, Ilion, NY 13357.

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

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

09/11/2026

🇺🇸 25 Years Later, We Remember

This morning, our community came together to remember a day that forever changed our nation.

Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home was honored to be represented by Funeral Director Heather A. Rauch, who offered the invocation and benediction at the Mohawk Valley Marine Corps League’s September 11th Service of Remembrance.

For those of us who remember September 11, 2001, the memories of that day remain vivid — but so do the memories of what followed: neighbors helping neighbors, communities standing together, and a nation united in grief, gratitude and resolve.

Today, we remember the lives that were lost. We honor the first responders, members of our Armed Forces and countless others who answered the call to serve. And here at home, we are especially grateful for the veterans, first responders and community members who continue to serve and care for our neighbors every day.

It is a privilege to be part of a community that takes the time to gather, remember and ensure that the sacrifices of so many are never forgotten.

We remember them today. We honor them always. 🇺🇸

09/08/2026

William Curtis

ILION - William Curtis, 69, of Ilion, passed away on Monday, August 31, 2026, at Wynn Hospital in Utica, with his beloved brother by his side.
William was born on January 3, 1957, in Cohoes, New York, a son of the late Lawrence and Doris Agnes Moquin Curtis.

He is survived by his brothers, David Curtis of Ballston Lake, NY, Lawrence Curtis Jr. of Pasco, Washington and Bruce Curtis of Cohoes,NY.

In keeping with William's wishes, there will be no public services. William's arrangements have been entrusted to the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego Street, Ilion, NY 13357. To leave condolences for William's family, please visit www.whiter-hendrix.com.

View William Curtis's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

09/01/2026

Bernard Rockwell Jr.

Mohawk - Mr. Bernard "Bernie" Rockwell, 86, a lifelong resident of Mohawk, NY, passed away August 30, 2026 at the Wynn Hospital in Utica, peacefully with his beloved wife and family at his side.

Bernie was born in Herkimer on March 23, 1940, a son of the late Bernard and Jennie Warkowski Rockwell, Sr. and he attended and graduated from Mohawk Schools.

Bernie was a devoted husband to Patricia Orendorf. The two were married in Blessed Sacrament Church in Mohawk on October 3, 1959, sharing more than 66 years of cherished memories. His family was his pride and joy, and he cherished every moment spent with them. A true craftsman, Bernie dedicated much of his life to the automotive industry, operating his own business, Bernie's Body Repair in Mohawk from 1969 until his "retirement" in 2003. His skillful hand and keen eye for detail earned him the respect and admiration of his many customers and colleagues over the decades.

Bernie is survived by his loving wife, Pat of Mohawk; his children, Christine Dopson of Herkimer, Mark Rockwell and grand-dog Rylee of Mohawk, and Melinda Harrington and her husband, Scott of Richfield Springs; three grandchildren, Cody, Curtis and his wife, Victoria, and Katie; three great-grandchildren, Jordyn, Mykah, and Avery; and two brothers, Robert Rockwell of Alabama and David Rockwell and his wife, Beverly, of Mohawk. He was predeceased by his two sisters, Elizabeth and Harriet as well as numerous beloved grand-dogs.

As we remember Bernie, we reflect on a life filled with hard work, integrity, and a deep commitment to those he loved. He found great enjoyment in the simple things in life, especially spending time outdoors. Bernie loved ice fishing, being in the woods, and cutting and splitting firewood. He also took great pride in restoring his vintage Crosleys, a pastime that reflected his patience, skill, and appreciation for bringing something special back to life. His legacy will live on through the lives he touched, the things he loved, and the many memories he created along the way.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, September 10, 2026 at 10:30 am, in the Mohawk Cemetery Annex at the top of Vickerman Hill in Mohawk, where family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate Bernie's life. In keeping with his wishes, there will be no public calling hours. All who knew him are invited to join in this heartfelt tribute as we honor the man whose spirit will remain in our hearts forever.

Bernie's family would like to extend special thanks to the 3rd floor East ICU nurses for their care and compassion shown to Bernie in his final days.

In lieu of flowers, and in honor of Bernie's great love for animals, the family requests that donations be made to the Herkimer County Humane Society, 514 NY-5S, Mohawk, NY 13407.

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

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

07/23/2026

Roscoe "Rocky" Palmer Reed

Ilion - On June 23, 2026, 94 years young, the patriarch of our Reed clan was called home, slipping away peacefully in his sleep.

Rocky, or "Bud" to many of his oldest friends, was a man of eclectic tastes, insatiable curiosity, adventurous spirit and above all, unwavering devotion to his family. He is survived by his beloved bride of 73 years, Patricia Reed of Ilion; son, Patrick of Ilion; son, Michael of San Antonio; and daughter, Kathleen (Reed) Armstrong of Richfield Springs, NY, as well as 8 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

An accomplished musician, Rocky's many musical pursuits led him to meet and befriend many across the globe. It seemed he could go nowhere without someone knowing him! To name but a few: The U.S. Air Force Drum and Bugle Corps; The Utica Blackhawks Drum and Bugle Corps; 75 years with The Re*****on Rand/Ilion Vets Band (later the Ilion Civic Band); more than 60 years with La Banda Rosa; the Ziyara Shriner's Band; the Utica Opera Guild; famed dance band The Mohicans; The Valley Voices for Christ; and innumerable other musical endeavors.

Rocky retired as a Rural Letter Carrier with the U.S. Post Office after 30 years of service, forging many lifelong friendships and creating cherished memories for generations of children who eagerly awaited "Rocky" and their mail! His many stories of the perils and adventures of delivering mail to Upstate New York dairy country during the 1960s and 1970s could easily convert to a best-selling book!

The consummate family man, Rocky always putting his family before himself, he reveled in taking them on many camping and canoeing trips from the Adirondacks to the Great Smoky Mountains. An almost three-month trip across the US, up the West Coast to Alaska and back via the Al-Can Highway (1,500 miles of dirt road at the time!) remains a crowning achievement that is still talked about today. Where he found time to also teach us the art of making maple syrup, apple c***r, crafting sausage and sauerkraut, taking yearly excursions for ramps, mushrooms, frog legs, and passing along his outdoor and hunting skills will remain a mystery!

Living a life of service, Rocky devoted his many talents and interests to his community. He served for 62 years as the pianist/music director of the North Columbia Methodist Church; sang with the North Columbia Methodist Gospel Quartet; spent 25 years with the Boy Scouts of America as a Scoutmaster, Wood Badge graduate and leader; served for more than 20 years as a New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Hunter Safety educator; was a founding member of the local Ducks Unlimited chapter; and was a member of the Ilion Masonic Lodge for 65 years. An avid reader in his lifelong quest for knowledge, he amassed an extensive personal library and maintained what could only be described as a 26-magazine-per-month addiction!

He and his wife, Pat, traveled extensively with friends and family, culminating in hosting their entire family of 13 for several weeks in the United Kingdom. Rocky's love of the outdoors also led him on many diverse and far-ranging hunts, camping and canoeing adventures with lifelong friends who grew to be as family to him.

His life of "giving back" continued to the very end, concluding with his generous donation of his mortal remains to SUNY Medical research in Syracuse. Donation arrangements are under the direction of the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St. Ilion, NY 13357.

Rocky's music, generosity and love for family will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who knew him.

The family welcomes any anecdotes you may wish to share.

On October 16, 2026, a memorial service will be held at the Jesus Never Fails Church at 12:00 noon, followed by a celebration of Rocky's life from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at the Matteson Hotel in beautiful downtown Cedarville, featuring Fritz's Polka Band!

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Jesus Never Fails Community Church. Contact: 315-868-5732.

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

View Roscoe "Rocky" Palmer Reed's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.