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10/22/2024

Rabbi Howard Matasar, a beloved community leader, esteemed scholar, and devoted teacher, passed away during the holiday of Sukkot on Chol Hamoed, October 19, 2024, at the age of 70. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, compassion, and unwavering dedication to the Jewish community of Central New York.

Born to Harry and Jeanne Matasar on November 15, 1953, in Gary, Indiana, he graduated from Indiana University with an undergraduate degree in History and received his Orthodox Rabbinical Smichah from Hebrew Theological College in Skokie, IL. His commitment to Jewish education and spiritual leadership led him to serve in five congregations throughout the United States, most notably at Orthodox Congregation Zvi Jacob in Utica, NY, for over 31 years. He also served as a Jewish chaplain for the New York State Department of Corrections, from which he recently retired.

Rabbi Matasar was known for his passionate sermons, insightful Torah teachings, and deep compassion for his Shul family. He belonged to the Rabbinical Council of America and looked forward to attending their yearly conventions.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Mimi; his devoted children, Tracy and Hillel; and his loving brothers, Ronnie (Edwina) and Dale (Sandy).

Rabbi Matasar loved baseball, enjoyed traveling, discussing politics, and visiting national parks and kosher restaurants. He was well-known for his strong work ethic. He will be remembered for his love of Torah, halachic wisdom, and unwavering commitment to the Jewish community and will be deeply missed by his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

09/28/2024

Geordy P. Austin passed away at home on September 21, 2024 after a brief illness, with his lovely Diane at his side. Geordy was born December 15, 1939 to Patrick and Maggie Magee Austin in Belfast, North of Ireland. While he started work at age 10, by the age 14 Geordy left school to help support his family of thirteen. With his father’s influence as a member in the Irish TGW Union he became a Belfast Dock worker. Geordy relocated to the USA in 1981 and eventually settled in Syracuse in 2000 with Diane. Geordy’s life in Central New York was highlighted with his passion and commitment to Irish causes, particularly the AOH Freedom For All Ireland Committee. He was an active member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, a founder of both the CNY Irish Cultural Society and the CNY Irish Coalition. Geordy’s life long passion was civil rights, truth and justice for all. His musical talent included singing and playing many instruments. His passion for Irish history and his quest for a united Ireland were his priorities. He encouraged others to learn the Irish language, their heritage, and the true history of Ireland.

Geordy is survived by his wife Diane L. Menzies and his sons Patrick of Urrugne, France and Martin of Belfast, Ireland. He also leaves his sisters Margaret Cambell and Sheila Freeburn, brothers Jim, Joseph, Jerry, and Tony, three sister in laws Laurie, Leslie, and Lizabeth, as well as many extended family. He is predeceased by his sister Mary, brothers Patrick, Brian, Sean, and nephews, and many colleagues.

09/28/2024

09/21/2024

Funeral Service

06/05/2024

Mary Burns Lascaris passed into her eternal life on May 27, 2024 at the age of 100, at home with devoted family by her side.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, June 5, 2024 at 10am at Most Holy Rosary Church, 111 Roberts Ave, Syracuse. An hour of calling hours will be held prior from 9 am to 10am at the church. Burial will be in Onondaga County Veterans Memorial Cemetery.

Mary is survived by her loving children, Anne (Thomas) Kiefer, John (Cindy) Lascaris, Jr. and Mary Ellen Speicher (David Hubbard); six grandchildren, Matthew (Tamara) Mateus, Mandy Beeler, John Lascaris III, Patrick (Brittany) Kiefer, Michael (Lauren Cowen) Kiefer, and Beth (Patrick) Ciambrone; four great grandchildren, Ryann, Emily, Mia and Madison; and many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, John L. Lascaris; her parents, John and Marie (Burke) Burns; and her brothers, Robert, John, William, and Thomas Burns, and sister, Marjorie (Burns) Glavin.

Mary’s family extends their deepest appreciation to the outstanding staff at Brookdale Summerfield who foster a wonderfully homelike atmosphere for those who live there. She had many close friendships with staff and residents.

Mary’s family is extremely grateful to the home health caregivers at Brookdale Summerfield for their unparalleled care and compassion during her years there, and especially in her final days.

The family would also like to acknowledge the exceptional professionalism and care provided by Dr, Michael Kuhn and the Palliative Care Team at Family Care Medical Group, PC, at Community Campus at Upstate University Hospital.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Most Holy Rosary Church, 111 Roberts Ave, Syracuse, NY 13207.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mary Lascaris, please visit Tribute Store.

Mary Elizabeth Burns was born on May 18, 1924, the youngest of six children, and lived her entire life in Syracuse. She graduated from Most Holy Rosary High School, and
from Nazareth College of Rochester with a degree in sociology. After college, she was employed in the Children’s Division of the Onondaga County Department of Social Services where she met her dear husband, John L. Lascaris, who eventually became Commissioner of Social Services for the county. They married in 1951 and enjoyed 43 years of happiness together, first on Tipp Hill, and then Onondaga Hill, until John’s death in 1994.

Like other mid-century American homemakers in Tipp Hill, and like her own mother, Mary was a resourceful, creative and intrepid homemaker. While the Lascaris kids were outside playing with their first best friends, the O’Connor kids from next door, she made good use of her time cooking, cleaning, and indulging in her passion for sewing and crafts.
Mary made many of her own clothes and those of her two daughters, Anne and Mary Ellen—school dresses, First Communion dresses, Easter finery including coats, prom gowns, and bridal veils. Even her son, John Jr, benefited from her talents. When he broke his leg and wore a cast for weeks from toes to hip, she added zippers to his pant legs so he could be dressed for school and church. Her skills as a seamstress and in furniture restoration were legendary—she made drapes and slipcovers, and refinished and reupholstered chairs and loveseats. She knitted sweaters and baby clothes. She serviced and repaired her sewing machine herself. She wallpapered, painted and stenciled. She did as many home repairs as she could. She relied on the “Reader’s Digest Do it Yourself Manual” and her own toolkit. She kept a pipe wrench in the utensil drawer of every home in which she lived.
When their three children reached school age at St. Patrick’s, Mary returned to the workforce as a social worker at St. Joseph’s Hospital. Upon retirement she became an active volunteer, most notably for 27 years at Community General Hospital, and also on the Resident Council at Brookdale Summerfield Senior Living Community for several of the years she resided there. She also served on the Board of the Visiting Nurse Association, the Auxiliary Board at St. Camillus Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Facility and the Auxiliary Board at Community General Hospital. She also volunteered at the Everson Museum and for Meals-On-Wheels.

In addition to sewing and crafts, Mary loved bridge; travel to Europe, Hawaii, Alaska, and central America; and above all the company of her family and many friends. She belonged to a bridge club and held those friends close into her final years.
Most dear to Mary’s heart were summers spent at the family camp in Old Forge, NY, where her children and grandchildren learned to love the Adirondacks as much as shedid. Until the camp was updated gradually starting in the 1960’s, there was no heat except for the fireplace in the living room and no hot water unless the little cast iron Franklin woodstove was lit to heat the water heater. There was no washer or dryer, no phone, no TV. There was a coal stove to cook and bake. Mary’s father bought the camp when she was 11 years old and she summered there for decades. She and her siblings worked summer jobs in Old Forge to help pay for college as well as graduate and medical school for three of her brothers. The boys caddied at Thendara Golf Club and waited tables at The Ferns Restaurant. Her sister, Marge, worked at the Adirondack League Club. Mary was a lifeguard at Old Forge Beach and a telephone operator. Many friendships were made with boys and girls locally.

Mary and John brought their own children ‘up to camp’ for the summer. Their children never minded the cold, or the lack of TV or a phone. Mary filled their days with trips to the beach to swim, rides on the McCauley Mountain chairlift, and hikes in the woods. She bought a small motorboat and trailered it up on the back of her Chevy Impala for the kids to enjoy on Old Forge Pond. She let them be ‘free range’ kids and find their own fun and friends around Old Forge which they did. She made homemade berry pies, molasses cookies and fantastic dinners on the old coal stove, so when the kids came home for dinner, ravenous after a day of adventures, there was always a wonderful meal waiting.

Mary was a terrific grandmother to her grandkids, sharing stories of her growing up years, baking favorite treats, introducing them to the wonders of the Adirondacks, and finding the perfect Christmas gift that even Mom and Dad and Santa couldn’t lay hands on—like the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle action figures she snagged in a melee at Toys R Us one year.

In addition to caring for her immediate family, working and volunteering, Mary was also a compassionate caregiver to extended family members during their illnesses and final days. She brought meals and provided physical care, and when a loved one entered the hospital or a skilled nursing facility, she was a strong advocate for their needs. This was one of the most important lessons her children take from Mary’s life.

Mary was blessed to celebrate her 100th birthday with family, friends, residents and staff at Brookdale Summerfield on May 18, 2024.

06/01/2024

Dorothy F. Dever
Utica, NY

Dorothy Fredricka Dever (Kirch), 101, of Utica, NY peacefully passed away on July 13, 2023.

Dorothy was born on December 6, 1921 in Brooklyn, NY, daughter of Walter and Bertha Kirch. When she was a teen, her family moved to East Rockaway, NY. She graduated from SUNY New Paltz, where she met the love of her life, Robert Dever. They married August 28, 1943, and shared a loving union for 79 years.

Dorothy typified the generation that she came from: committed to her husband, supportive of family, and hard-working.

After Robert returned from World War 2, he and Dorothy settled in East Rockaway, NY to start a family.

Although quiet by nature, Dorothy was extremely talented in sewing, knitting, and quilting. She made beautiful clothing for her children and knitted many items for her adoring grandchildren. Dorothy enjoyed reading, and completing crossword and jigsaw puzzles with her husband.

She was a dedicated member of the Bethany Congregational Church in East Rockaway, NY for many years. When they moved to Brewster, NY, Dorothy and her husband, Robert became active in the “Young at Heart'' at the Brewster Baptist Church.

Dorothy will be missed by her loving and devoted husband, Robert, son Jim and his wife Suzanne of Sauquoit, NY, son John and his wife Christine of Purcellville, VA, son Tom and his wife Wendy of Hamden CT, daughter Kathy and her husband Dave Zimpelman of Ventura, CA, and son Dan and his wife Linda of White Plains, NY. Dorothy’s memory will live on in her 13 cherished grandchildren and 23 great grandchildren. Many nieces and nephews will remember Aunt Dorothy with fondness.

Robert John Dever (Oct 30, 1921 – Apr 10, 2024)
Utica, NY

Robert John Dever, 102, of Utica, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 10, 2024 at the Mason Care Community.

Robert was born on October 30th, 1921 in Philadelphia, PA, son of James Joseph Dever and Oneita (Greisheimer) Dever. As a teen, he loved the outdoors and nature, and became an Eagle Scout at a young age. At SUNY New Paltz Bob met Dorothy Kirch, the love of his life. Both graduated with degrees in education. Robert and many of his classmates immediately left to serve in WW II. Enlisting in the Marines, he served as a Second Lieutenant defending our country in the battle for Okinawa in the South Pacific.

Bob is remembered by many as a hard-working man, deeply committed to his wife and family. He was a teacher and later the Principal of Wheeler Avenue Elementary School in Valley Stream, NY. During his 26 years as Principal he greatly impacted thousands of lives, in both his school and community, retiring with many life-long friends. Bob’s investment in people rather than things seemed to be the key to his influence.

Robert and Dorothy raised their family in East Rockaway, NY, where they made many life-long friends both in their neighborhood as well as Bethany Congregational Church.

After retirement Bob and Dorothy spend 20 years in Brewster, NY, living in an apartment overlooking a reservoir on their son John’s property. There he formed new friendships thru the Brewster Baptist Church and by walking with a group each morning in the Danbury Mall. Life was also enriched by joining two clock repair clubs and attending luncheons with his 1939 graduating class from Peekskill High School. Bob enjoyed gardening, fishing, woodworking, reading and crossword puzzles. He especially looked forward to our annual October ‘workday’, a time when the whole family gathered.
Robert spent 10 years living with Dorothy at Acacia Village in Utica, NY. He formed new friendships with staff and residents, and enjoyed many family gatherings for birthdays and anniversaries. Bob became known for his humorous jokes, and free watch repair services. Acacia Village was a wonderful place to live and flourish, with an exceptionally attentive and deeply caring staff.

Bob was predeceased by his loving and devoted wife Dorothy, and is survived by son Jim and his wife Sue of Sauquoit, NY, son John and his wife Christine of Purcellville, VA, son Tom and his wife Wendy of Hamden CT, daughter Kathy and her husband Dave Zimpelman of Ventura, CA, and son Dan and his wife Linda of White Plains, NY. Bob’s memory will live on in his 13 cherished grandchildren and 23 great grandchildren. Many nieces and nephews will remember Uncle Bob with fondness. He maintained many lasting friendships with his teaching staff, church friends and Masonic Care Community staff and care givers.

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Rabbi Howard Matasar

Rabbi Howard Matasar, a beloved community leader, esteemed scholar, and devoted teacher, passed away during the holiday of Sukkot on Chol Hamoed, October 19, 2024, at the age of 70. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, compassion, and unwavering dedication to the Jewish community of Central New York. Born to Harry and Jeanne Matasar on November 15, 1953, in Gary, Indiana, he graduated from Indiana University with an undergraduate degree in History and received his Orthodox Rabbinical Smichah from Hebrew Theological College in Skokie, IL. His commitment to Jewish education and spiritual leadership led him to serve in five congregations throughout the United States, most notably at Orthodox Congregation Zvi Jacob in Utica, NY, for over 31 years. He also served as a Jewish chaplain for the New York State Department of Corrections, from which he recently retired. Rabbi Matasar was known for his passionate sermons, insightful Torah teachings, and deep compassion for his Shul family. He belonged to the Rabbinical Council of America and looked forward to attending their yearly conventions. He is survived by his beloved wife, Mimi; his devoted children, Tracy and Hillel; and his loving brothers, Ronnie (Edwina) and Dale (Sandy). Rabbi Matasar loved baseball, enjoyed traveling, discussing politics, and visiting national parks and kosher restaurants. He was well-known for his strong work ethic. He will be remembered for his love of Torah, halachic wisdom, and unwavering commitment to the Jewish community and will be deeply missed by his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Geordy P. Austin passed away at home on September 21, 2024 after a brief illness, with his lovely Diane at his side. Geordy was born December 15, 1939 to Patrick and Maggie Magee Austin in Belfast, North of Ireland. While he started work at age 10, by the age 14 Geordy left school to help support his family of thirteen. With his father’s influence as a member in the Irish TGW Union he became a Belfast Dock worker. Geordy relocated to the USA in 1981 and eventually settled in Syracuse in 2000 with Diane. Geordy’s life in Central New York was highlighted with his passion and commitment to Irish causes, particularly the AOH Freedom For All Ireland Committee. He was an active member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, a founder of both the CNY Irish Cultural Society and the CNY Irish Coalition. Geordy’s life long passion was civil rights, truth and justice for all. His musical talent included singing and playing many instruments. His passion for Irish history and his quest for a united Ireland were his priorities. He encouraged others to learn the Irish language, their heritage, and the true history of Ireland. Geordy is survived by his wife Diane L. Menzies and his sons Patrick of Urrugne, France and Martin of Belfast, Ireland. He also leaves his sisters Margaret Cambell and Sheila Freeburn, brothers Jim, Joseph, Jerry, and Tony, three sister in laws Laurie, Leslie, and Lizabeth, as well as many extended family. He is predeceased by his sister Mary, brothers Patrick, Brian, Sean, and nephews, and many colleagues.

Geordy P. Austin

Geordy P. Austin passed away at home on September 21, 2024 after a brief illness, with his lovely Diane at his side. Geordy was born December 15, 1939 to Patrick and Maggie Magee Austin in Belfast, North of Ireland. While he started work at age 10, by the age 14 Geordy left school to help support his family of thirteen. With his father’s influence as a member in the Irish TGW Union he became a Belfast Dock worker. Geordy relocated to the USA in 1981 and eventually settled in Syracuse in 2000 with Diane. Geordy’s life in Central New York was highlighted with his passion and commitment to Irish causes, particularly the AOH Freedom For All Ireland Committee. He was an active member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, a founder of both the CNY Irish Cultural Society and the CNY Irish Coalition. Geordy’s life long passion was civil rights, truth and justice for all. His musical talent included singing and playing many instruments. His passion for Irish history and his quest for a united Ireland were his priorities. He encouraged others to learn the Irish language, their heritage, and the true history of Ireland. Geordy is survived by his wife Diane L. Menzies and his sons Patrick of Urrugne, France and Martin of Belfast, Ireland. He also leaves his sisters Margaret Cambell and Sheila Freeburn, brothers Jim, Joseph, Jerry, and Tony, three sister in laws Laurie, Leslie, and Lizabeth, as well as many extended family. He is predeceased by his sister Mary, brothers Patrick, Brian, Sean, and nephews, and many colleagues.

Geordy P. Austin

Geordy P. Austin passed away at home on September 21, 2024 after a brief illness, with his lovely Diane at his side. Geordy was born December 15, 1939 to Patrick and Maggie Magee Austin in Belfast, North of Ireland. While he started work at age 10, by the age 14 Geordy left school to help support his family of thirteen. With his father’s influence as a member in the Irish TGW Union he became a Belfast Dock worker. Geordy relocated to the USA in 1981 and eventually settled in Syracuse in 2000 with Diane. Geordy’s life in Central New York was highlighted with his passion and commitment to Irish causes, particularly the AOH Freedom For All Ireland Committee. He was an active member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, a founder of both the CNY Irish Cultural Society and the CNY Irish Coalition. Geordy’s life long passion was civil rights, truth and justice for all. His musical talent included singing and playing many instruments. His passion for Irish history and his quest for a united Ireland were his priorities. He encouraged others to learn the Irish language, their heritage, and the true history of Ireland. Geordy is survived by his wife Diane L. Menzies and his sons Patrick of Urrugne, France and Martin of Belfast, Ireland. He also leaves his sisters Margaret Cambell and Sheila Freeburn, brothers Jim, Joseph, Jerry, and Tony, three sister in laws Laurie, Leslie, and Lizabeth, as well as many extended family. He is predeceased by his sister Mary, brothers Patrick, Brian, Sean, and nephews, and many colleagues.