French, Gifford, Preiter & Blasl Funeral Home, 25 Railroad Avenue, Chatham, NY (2025)

10/28/2025

Marcia VanFleet Abrams, a beacon of love and creativity, passed away peacefully on October 25, 2025, at the age of 89 in Troy, New York. Born on June 3, 1936, in Hudson, New York, she was the cherished daughter of Lloyd VanFleet and Miriam Pratt VanFleet.

She was the loving wife of the late John S. Abrams, with whom she shared a lifetime of memories and a beautiful family. Her legacy continues through her children, Shawn (June) Abrams of Cohoes, NY, Deborah (James) Southard of Hancock, MA, and Mary Moon of East Chatham, NY.,sister, Carol DeBell beloved grandchildren Sarah Cox, Kristen Riley, Jennifer Moon, Jessica Moon, David Moon, Adam Moon, John Abrams and Morgan Abrams along with 7 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews who will carry her spirit forward. Marcia was predeceased by her beloved sons, Timothy and Stephen Abrams, her parents, Lloyd and Miriam VanFleet and her grandchildren, Courtney, Jason, Amanda, Christopher, and William.

With nimble fingers and an eye for detail, Marcia was an extremely talented seamstress.

Marcia's interests were as varied as they were rich. She had a profound love for music and singing. Cooking was another of her passions, and she held great memories of making her beloved spaghetti sauce every Saturday, a tradition that infused her home with warmth and delectable aromas. Her love for sewing was matched by her love for animals and gardening, nurturing life in all its forms.

She cherished the times spent camping at Queechy Lake, where the beauty of nature provided a backdrop for family bonding and lifelong memories.

The word 'loving' best encapsulates Marcia.

Marcia's departure leaves a void in the hearts of those who loved her, but her influence remains indelible. Her life was a testament to the power of love, the beauty of creativity, and the importance of family. We celebrate the remarkable woman she was and the extraordinary life she led. Her memory will be cherished and honored by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Family will receive friends at the French, Gifford, Preiter & Blasl Funeral Home Saturday, November 1st. from 10am to 11am at which time services will be conducted.

In lieu of flowers contributions in Marcia's name may be made to the Columbia Greene Humane Society. Condolences may be conveyed at frenchblasl.com.

10/18/2025

Lawrence Salzman was born on June 10, 1930, and grew up in Brookly, New York. He died on October 13, 2025, in Pittsfield, Massachusetts. Lawrence was known for his intellectual curiosity and love of debate.

Lawrence proudly attended Erasumus Hall High School and Brooklyn College followed by a Master's degree from City College. With his passion for economics and technology he spent a distinguished career at IBM, where he worked for over three decades as an economist. Lawrence authored numerous papers and a book "Computerized Economic Analysis," which reflected his expertise and contributions to the field.

Outside the sphere of his professional life, Lawrence enjoyed hiking and other physical pursuits. His retirement years were filled with the pleasures of vegetable gardening, mowing his own multi acre front yard and the companionship of his beloved cat, Bibs.

A voracious reader, Lawrence found pleasure in the daily New York Times and history books, particularly those about the Civil War, general US history and World War II. His love for travel was evident in his trips to Israel, England, Paris, Germany, and across the United States, where he immersed himself in the cultures and histories of each place.

Lawrence enjoyed movies and collected silent films. He maintained bonds with dear and distant friends through regular phone calls and online. His nightly calls with his beloved daughter, Ellen, were a cherished ritual, a source of comfort and an expression of love.

Lawrence is survived by his devoted partner of 45 years, Trudi Roth, and her family. His legacy continues through his daughter Ellen Chase, son-in-law Kevin Chase, and their children Josiah and Lucinda.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to your favorite local public radio station.

Following his wishes Lawrence was cremated. A memorial service in Columbia County will follow later in the year. Condolences may be conveyed at www.frenchblasl.com.

09/30/2025

Wayne O’Dell passed away September 28, 2025 at home. Born January 23, 1957 in Hudson, NY.. he was the son of the late Louis and Jean Clegg O’Dell.
He is survived by his wife Dawn, brother Richard “digger” (Pat) O’Dell, sister Katherine (Terry) Laurange, brother-in law William (Pam) Harmon Jr. Tom Harmon (Debby Bingham), and his nieces and nephews and his nature sharing nephew William Harmon III.
Wayne was an avid deer hunter, a trustee of the Ghent Union Cemetery Board, and a life member and former board member of the Ghent Volunteer Fire Company. He was an animal lover, especially dogs.
He was retired from Valley Energy.
At his request there will be no services. He will be laid to rest at Ghent Union Cemetery. Contributions in Wayne’s name may be made to the Columbia/Greene Humane Society. Condolences may be conveyed at frenchblasl.com.

09/30/2025

Ethel Mildred (Ginger) Leavenworth passed away peacefully, September 4, 2025 at Mt. Greylock Extended Care Facility in Pittsfield, MA. She was born October 16, 1935 to Edward C. and Mildred Beaupre Chapman in Pittsfield, MA. The family moved to Chatham in 1938 where she graduated from Chatham Union Free School Class of 1952. Ginger was employed by Columbia Rensselaer Telephone Co., Employers Mutual Insurance Co., and then owned E.M. Leavenworth Insurance Co. In 1954 she married Raymond C. Leavenworth and they lived in Old Chatham until they both retired and moved to Virginia. After Ray’s death she moved to Florida. In 2023 she moved to Mt. Greylock Extended Care. She is survived by her brother David E. Chapman (Elizabeth) and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents and her sister Marjorie A. Steele. Graveside services will be held October 11, 2025 at 11am at the Chatham Rural Cemetery. Condolences may be conveyed at frenchblasl.com.

09/27/2025

Guy A Madsen, a deeply loved and respected pillar of the Spencertown community, passed away peacefully at home on the land he cherished, surrounded by his loving family, on Wednesday September 24, 2025. He was 78 years old.
Born in Chatham, Guy was the son of the late Walter Madsen and Helen Rivenburg. He was a proud and devoted Vietnam Veteran who honorably served his country.
Guy was a true entrepreneur and dedicated his life to work, family, and service. He was the owner of Madsen Overhead Doors, Fox Hill Campground and Madsen Motorsports, all while making time for the hobbies and organizations he loved most.
For 56 years, Guy was the beloved husband of Patty Madsen. Together, they built a beautiful life, a thriving family, and a lasting legacy. He was the dedicated father of Michael Madsen and Brian (Kelli) Madsen. Guy was a cherished Papa to Dylan (Emilee), Jonathan, Taylor, Erin, and Conner, and a doting “grandpa” to his two grand dogs, Cash and Ozzie. His family was the center of his world, and his lessons and love will continue to guide them. Guy is also survived by his aunt Grace Ann Silvernail, as well as his siblings Christine (Dan) Rundell, Dan (GZ), David (Sue), Lee (Darlene), and Dale (Sarah), and countless nieces, nephews and cousins.
Guy’s impact on his community and the world of sports was immeasurable. He was a tireless figure in the world of Little League Baseball, committing 57 years to the organization. He served in several key roles, including District 15 Coordinator, District 15 Administrator, and Section 3 Director of Little League, He was instrumental in the building of the Chatham Complex, shaping the lives of countless young athletes across the state. His dedication to the local farms and 4H youth was something he was very proud of. For 34 years he was a fixture at the 4H livestock sale during the Chatham fair.
His passion for sports extended to the Dirt track, where he was heavily involved in racing for over 40 years. His success as a car owner for Brett Hearn, Stewart Friesen, and current driver Dylan Madsen lead to his induction into the NYSSCA Hall of Fame, the Lebanon Valley Hall of Fame, and the Dirt Motorsports Hall of Fame.
In his hometown, Guy was a Life Member of the Spencertown Fire Company and served as a Fire Commissioner, always ready to serve his neighbors. He was also a member of the Ghent VFW, and Chatham American Legion, Newcomb Sportsmen’s Club, and the Ghent Rod and Gun Club.
In his quieter moments, Guy enjoyed hunting and was an avid fan of the Atlanta Braves. He enjoyed his winter months soaking up the sunshine in Florida and Aruba. He will be remembered for his steadfast presence, and his commitment to every endeavor he undertook, and the profound love he had for his family and the community he called home.
Family will receive friends at the French, Gifford, Preiter & Blasl Funeral Home, Chatham, NY on Saturday, October 4th from 9am till 11:30am. There will be a religious service following at noon in St. James Church.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to one of the following organizations that were meaningful to Guy: 4H Livestock Fund, 479 Route 66 Hudson, NY 12534 or District 15 Little League C/O Clayton Clark 265 Middle Road Hudson NY 12534. Condolences may be conveyed at frenchblasl.com.

09/15/2025

Russell Francis Graham, 99, passed away peacefully and surrounded by his loving family on August 23, 2025, at the Long Island State Veterans Home in Stony Brook, NY. He was the widower of Lena Moccia Graham, who predeceased him in 2011 after 62 years of marriage.
Russell was born in Bridgeport, CT, on September 3, 1925, the son of the late Richard and Jennie (Haggerty) Graham. He proudly served in the U.S. Navy in the Pacific during World War II on the U.S.S. Stockton DD-646 and returned to the U.S. to serve in the Marine Corps for an additional three years. One of his notable contributions to history includes guarding Tokyo Bay on the day the Japanese Instrument of Surrender was signed, just a day before his 20th birthday.
After his honorable discharge, Russell spent the next 35 years driving for McLean Trucking Company in Stratford, where he and Lena raised their three daughters. They then moved to Valatie, NY, where he worked for the Ichabod Crane School District for ten years, and later for the Columbia County Transfer Station in Chatham, NY, retiring at the age of 94.
He was an extraordinary person who loved his family and his country, as evidenced by the U.S. flag always flying above his home. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, as well as an enthusiastic friend to many.
Russell is survived by his three daughters, Deborah (Robert) Reinckens of Hopewell Junction, NY, Jeanie Graham of Chatham, NY, and Gail (Patrick) DiCosmo of New Lebanon, NY, three grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.
Friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on September 22, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. John the Baptist Church in Valatie, NY. Interment with military honors will take place on September 23, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Michael Cemetery in Stratford, CT.

08/30/2025

James W. Garvey age 59, passed suddenly on August 27, 2025. James is survived by his son, Kyle Kolb, and brother David Garvey.
James graduated from Chatham High, he served honorably in the U.S. Navy, was the former Third District Commander in the American Legion, member and post past Commander of post 42, James had also served as Columbia County Commander and on various committees at the state and national level. He was a member of the Ocean Fire Company #1 of Chatham Fire Dept and had served in various positions over the years, as well as many other groups.
James was an IT Admin at Questar 111, and a lover of NASCAR and music.
In lieu of flowers please donations can be made to the American Legion Post 42 or Chatham Fire Dept.
Family will receive friends at the French, Gifford, Preiter & Blasl Funeral home On Friday, Sept. 5th from 4-7pm. There will be a service at the funeral home on Saturday at 11am with military honors to follow at Chatham Rural Cemetery. To convey a condolence visit frenchblasl.com

08/16/2025

Donald A. O’Connell, 78, of Chatham, NY, passed away Thursday, August 14, 2025 at his home with his love by his side. He was a 1965 graduate of Chatham High School and a graduate of Columbia Greene Community College with an Associates Degree. He was a member of the American Legion Post 42, Chatham, NY and a 50 year member of S,W, Smith Hook and Ladder, Chatham Fire Company.

Don joined the Navy May 12, 1966 for a 3 year term with two tours in Vietnam. While in the Navy he received four medals: National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with three bronze stars, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with device and Meritorious Unit Commendation.

He loved riding his Harley and going on motorcycle runs with different organizations and friends. He was an avid hunter and was devoted to the Chatham Fire Company and enjoyed marching in their parades. He also enjoyed friendly get togethers in his yard on Friday and Saturday nights. One of his favorite sayings was “You have to laugh and have fun every day because life is short”. He definitely lived up to that saying.

He was predeceased by his mother Helen and father Thomas O’Connell and his son Donald T O’Connell. He is survived by Mary Sheline, his love for the past 11 years, his sister Sharon Pitts, brother Thomas O’Connell (wife Betsy), sister Jane Selves (husband Norman) and sister Colleen Jensen (husband Sid). He is also survived by Mary’s four grandchildren that he loved as his own and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held Friday, August 22, 2025 from 10 am - 12 noon at the French, Gifford, Preiter & Blasl Funeral Home, 25 Railroad Ave., Chatham, NY. Burial will follow at St. James Cemetery, Ghent, NY.
In lieu of flowers contributions in Donnie's name may be made to the Chatham Fire Department or to the Columbia County Veterans Service Agency.

07/15/2025

It is with deep sorrow that we share the quiet passing of our beautiful mother, Jean A. (Carroll) Lamarre, July 11, 2025.
She was born in Pittsfield, MA, to Daniel and Francis (Smith) Carroll June 22, 1936. As a cherished mother of five, she was blessed with ten amazing grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. She leaves her brother, Dan Carroll, and her loving companion, Jim Huvar.
Our mother was known for her unwavering love for her family and her profound faith in the Lord.
She was predeceased by her husband, Leo, two sisters, Patricia Ruff and Ellen Besancon Wetherall, and her grandson, Corey B. Shields.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on July30th at 11am at St. James Church in Chatham, NY, and she will be gently laid to rest at St. James Cemetery.
In place of flowers, we politely request donations be made to Grammie Jean’s grandson’s scholarship fund, It is with deep sorrow that we share the quiet passing of our beautiful mother, Jean A. (Carroll) Lamarre, July 11, 2025.
She was born in Pittsfield, MA, to Daniel and Francis (Smith) Carroll June 22, 1936. As a cherished mother of five, she was blessed with ten amazing grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. She leaves her brother, Dan Carroll, and her loving companion, Jim Huvar.
Our mother was known for her unwavering love for her family and her profound faith in the Lord.
She was predeceased by her husband, Leo, two sisters, Patricia Ruff and Ellen Besancon Wetherall, and her grandson, Corey B. Shields.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on July30th at 11am at St. James Church in Chatham, NY, and she will be gently laid to rest at St. James Cemetery.
In place of flowers, we politely request donations be made to Grammie Jean’s grandson’s scholarship fund, The Corey B. Shields Scholarship, Guilderland High School, Post Office Box 18, Guilderland Center, NY 12085. Condolences may be conveyed at frenchblasl.com.

07/14/2025

Anita Pitney Fiorillo passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, at her beloved home in Chatham, New York, on July 7, 2025. She was 79 years old.
Anita was born on October 30, 1945, in New York City, the first child of the late Shelton Pitney Jr. of Morristown, New Jersey, and the late Barbara Bradley Manice of New York City. She spent most of her childhood in Manhattan and the New York suburbs, alongside her beloved younger brother, Shelton Pitney III. Several formative years were spent living in Mexico, where Anita became fluent in Spanish—a love of language and culture that shaped her life.
She attended the Shipley School in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, following in her mother’s footsteps as a second-generation boarder, and graduated in 1963. She began college at Barnard College in New York and later completed her undergraduate degree at Empire State College in 1976. Her passion for archaeology led her to graduate studies at Columbia University, which included fieldwork in the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico.
In 1966, Anita met her husband, John Fiorillo, while they were both working in the administration of New York City Mayor John Lindsay. Anita was serving as the Executive Assistant to the Commissioner of the Department of Marine and Aviation. The two married shortly thereafter and began a lifelong partnership that included the great joy of raising their daughter, Alexandra, and watching her grow into adulthood. Anita, John, and Alexandra shared a deep bond and a spirit of adventure that took them around the world together, from the jungles of Latin America to the landscapes of Africa.
Professionally, Anita spent most of her career with Arnold Saks Associates, a leading graphic design firm in New York City. She began as the Office Manager and rose to become Vice President and Director of Operations—a testament to her diligence, integrity, and deep care for the people she worked with.
In 1972, Anita and John discovered a charming house just outside the village of Chatham, New York, which became their weekend retreat from the city. Week after week, they made the journey North, and eventually, made it their full-time home. Anita quickly became a passionate and engaged member of the Columbia County community. She served on numerous boards and committees, including the Morris Memorial in Chatham, the Town of Chatham Recreation Committee, and the Spencertown Academy, where she co-chaired the beloved Revels winter dinner fundraiser. In addition to her local service, Anita was involved for several decades with the Goddard Riverside Community Center’s Holiday Dinners program in New York City as well as numerous women’s rights organizations, the South Street Seaport Museum, and the Service Dog Project. She was a steadfast believer in community and mutual care and she gave generously of her time and energy.
Anita was also a devoted gardener and puzzler. She could often be found in the early mornings on her kitchen couch with a mug of tea, working through The New York Times Spelling Bee. Of the last 696 puzzles she attempted, she achieved 695 Genius levels and 691 Queen Bees. The one left unfinished was interrupted only by her hospitalization.
Anita is survived by her husband of 56 years, John Fiorillo; her brother David O. Pitney and his wife, Barbara B. Pitney of Needham, MA; her brother, Maxwell Marston and his wife, Margot Marston of Stonington, CT; her sister-in-law, Ilonka Tumelaire; her daughter, Alexandra D. Fiorillo of Denver, Colorado; and her cherished granddaughter, Matilda “Tilly” Fiorillo, age 2½, whom she adored and wished she had more time to know. She is also survived by her beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and a wide circle of devoted lifelong friends and caregivers.
A celebration of Anita’s life will be held in Columbia County in the fall of 2025. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Columbia County Recovery Kitchen: https://columbiacountyrecoverykitchen.org/how-to-donate/.. Condolences may be conveyed at frenchblasl.com

07/07/2025

David Allen Zukowski Sr, 60, of Ghent NY, passed on June 22nd, 2025. Dave was born to Dorthy Ann Stubbie-Zukowski and Joseph Fredrick Zukowski Sr on September 9th, 1965 in Albany NY. He is survived by his four children David Jr, Robert, Ashley, and Austin Zukowski, as well as by his long term partner Crystal Simpson and her son Tomas Simpson, along with many grandchildren.
The world lost a hard working man, he was loved by many, may he rest in peace.
Condolences may be conveyed at frenchblasl.com

06/26/2025

Anthony Joseph Roberts, Sr. passed away at his home on June 2, 2025 after a battle with cancer. Anthony was born on January 13, 1937 in Glen Cove, NY. Anthony is known to most as “Tony” and “Pop” to his grandchildren.
He is predeceased by his eldest son, Jozef. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Paula, whom he affectionately called “The Mouse”; his daughter, Lisa Hayman (Richard); son, AJ Roberts Jr.; son, Lawrence Roberts (Libby); his grandchildren whom he loved dearly, Richard Hayman III, AJ Roberts III, Antje Nijboer and Anneke Nijboer. He is also survived by his many beloved nieces and nephews.
Anthony was a lifelong resident of Chatham, NY in his house on “the hill.” He was born in Long Island and raised in Poughkeepsie. As a young adult, he served in the Army, worked in the post office and was a truck driver. His goal was to be an entrepreneur, so in his 30’s he began on that journey. He owned a successful cleaning business, built homes, owned a country club/golf course, a boat yard and many restaurants during his life. He became involved in boat racing in the 1980’s. His greatest accomplishment and, proudest
moment, was when he won the World Power Boat Racing Championship in 1985. He loved sports and cooking, especially for friends and family. He loved his wife, his children, grandchildren, family and friends. He will be missed by all his family and friends.
A Memorial Mass will be held on July 19, 2025 at 10:00 am at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, 95 Mill Street, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601. Condolences may be conveyed at frenchblasl.com.

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