Mrs. Joanne M. Bigwarfe

1968 - 2012

Mrs. Joanne M. Bigwarfe obituary, 1968-2012

Mrs. Joanne M. Bigwarfe

1968 - 2012

BORN

1968

DIED

2012

Joanne Bigwarfe Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on May 30, 2012.
Mrs. Joanne M. Bigwarfe , age 43 of Potsdam, NY passed away on Tuesday, May 29, 2012 at the Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, MA. A mass of Christian burial for her will be held on Monday, June 4, 2012 at 10 am at St. Mary's Church in Potsdam with Msgr. Robert Aucoin celebrant. Burial will follow the service at St. Mary's Cemetery in Potsdam. Friends may call at the Garner Funeral Service on Saturday, from 4-7 pm and on Sunday from 4-7 pm. In lieu of flowers contributions in her memory can be made to the Potsdam Booster Club @ P.O. Box 806 Potsdam, NY 13676.
Joanne is survived by her husband Brooks Joseph Bigwarfe, her son Konnor Joseph-Stark Bigwarfe, her daughter Kirstie Marie-Stark Bigwarfe, her parents Joseph and Stephanie Stark, her sister Susan (William) Barrett and several aunts, uncles, and her niece and nephews Raegan, Riley, and Rhece Barrett.
She is predeceased by her daughter Taylor Brooks Bigwarfe and her grandparents Elmer and Betty Stark and Fredrick and Frances Morse.
Joanne M. Bigwarfe was born on November 22, 1968 in Potsdam, NY to Joseph and Stephanie Morse Stark. She was a 1986 graduate of Potsdam Central School. She then received her Associates Degree from SUNY Canton and her Bachelor's Degree from SUNY Potsdam. Then while at St. Lawrence University she received a Master's Degree in Special Education and a Master's Degree in Administration. She graduated with high honors with all of her degrees.
Joanne held many jobs while in college. She worked at the P & C and the Super Duper grocery stores. She was a summer worker at Reynolds Metals in Massena and she worked for the ARC in Potsdam for 5 years. Joanne started her teaching career at Potsdam Central School where she taught for just a half year. She then taught at Malone Central School for a year and then at Parishville- Hopkinton Central School for the next 6 years. She then took the Special Education Administrator's job at Norwood-Norfolk Central School. She remained there until becoming the Principal of the school 2 years ago.
On August 17, 1991 at St. Mary's Church in Potsdam, NY she was married to Brooks Joseph Bigwarfe with Msgr. John Murphy celebrant.
Joanne loved to support anything her kids were involved in. She was very active in the community. She enjoyed supporting youth athletics, she was the president of K-Kids, was the president of the Potsdam Booster Club, she was a member of the Kiwanis Club in Norwood and she was also a member of the Delta Kappa Gamma (which is a female educators honor society.) Joanne was a fun loving and caring person who enjoyed life and will surely be missed by many. Online condolences can be sent @www.garnerfh.com.

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February 7, 2013

JAMES LAVELLE posted to the memorial.

October 30, 2012

Someone posted to the memorial.

June 26, 2012

Kathy Londraville posted to the memorial.

JAMES LAVELLE

February 7, 2013

Brooks and family,

I just wanted let you know myself and my family are still thinking of you and praying for you. I worked with Joanne for a time at Norfolk school, and she truly was one of the greatest people I ever met. She cared so much for the kids and even more for you guys. Please let me know if there is anything we can do for you. She is greatly missed.

October 30, 2012

I just saw this in the Suny Potsdam Magazine. I worked for two years with Joanne at Parishville. I no longer live in the north county and had not heard. I want to offer my sympathy.

Kathy Londraville

June 26, 2012

Brooks, Konnor, and Kirstie,
I was away when I heard of Joanne's passing. I was deeply saddened and wish I could have been there for her services. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Scott Rogers

June 7, 2012

Brooks...Our thoughts and prayers to you and your kids brother...If we can ever help out in anyway, please dont hestiate to ask...Scott and Carrie Rogers

Tony & Trim Wells

June 4, 2012

Brooks and family.
There are no words to describe how sorry we are for your loss. Joanne was too young and full of life to be taken so soon. I believe that her greatest joy was trying to make others happy. It is said that death leaves a heartache that can't be healed and love leaves a memory that no one can steal, in that token Joanne left behind a lot of memories and she will be greatly missed.

June 4, 2012

I had the opportunity to get to know Joanne when she was my student teacher in Canton, during the "Summer to Get Ahead Program". At that time, Joanne was finishing her degree in special education. Several years later, we worked together through a NYS grant. So easily, we picked up where we had left off. Joanne was a warm, dedicated individual, always had a smile and was always without harsh words. My sympathy to her family, friends and to all touched by her presence. Joanne will be greatly missed.
Vickie Bregg

Ayden & Makaylas Family ~ The Baxters

June 4, 2012

Dear Bigwarfe Family,
We were shocked and deeply saddened by the loss of Joanne. She touched so many lives and brought smiles to so many faces. My children were truly blessed to have had the time with her that they did. I truly dont think at their young ages (6 and 7) that they will ever forget who they call "the best principal". I hope the beautiful memories of her will carry you all through this tough time.

Debbie Molnar

June 4, 2012

We will always remember Mrs. Bigwarfe's smile and enthusiasm. She will be greatly missed. With deepest sympathy, The Molnar's

Joanne Stiles

June 4, 2012

I had the honor of working with Joanne at NNCS for several years. She was always a positive and encouraging colleague. Her dedication and focus to student success was always apparent. She will be missed.
Joanne Stiles

June 4, 2012

To Joanne's family-
You are in our thoughts and prayers at this extremely difficult time. She will be greatly missed!
Jon, Chris and Cadence Hunkins

June 4, 2012

Brooks and family-
We were saddened to hear of your loss. Please know that we are thinking of and praying for you all. With deepest sympathy- Scott Sargent and family

shelia brown

June 4, 2012

Stephanie and family I am so sorry for your loss my prayers are with you.

Lianne & Steve Knight

June 4, 2012

Brooks and family,
Our deepest sympathy to you all. We so enjoyed our Hotel Grande dinners out with you and the Chambers. Keeping you in our thoughts.

June 4, 2012

i will forever remember joanne coming into ponderosa with the kids- and taking home her sirloin tips for her man- with me sneaking a dinner roll into the box. she always put her family first. a loving/giving and gracious woman she was and will be remembered as such. so very sorry for this tragic loss for her family and many friends.God bless and give you strength in these difficult times. sincerely amber

kelli waite

June 3, 2012

to joanne's whole family so sorry for your loss.i didnt know her well but our sons played basketball together at one time and she always had a pleasant smile and hello.my niece belle goes to nncs and really liked her and enjoyed doing k kids with her .

Victoria Hayes

June 3, 2012

Joanne supported teachers in training and welcomed them in her building. She understood the importance of mentoring our student teachers to ensure a promising future for our children . Our profession has lost an advocate for children and education .Lucky are those who were inspired by her.
She will be deeply missed.

Pamela Charleson

June 3, 2012

I was so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help at this time.

John Dixon

June 3, 2012

Coach, I can't begin to tell you how sorry I was to hear Joanne passed. She was a great educator, an outstanding person, and fun to be with. She brightened everyone's day. Please know you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Brad Dufrane

June 3, 2012

So sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Bigwarfe family.

Brad and Wendy Dufrane

June 3, 2012

Our deepest symphaty to all the Bigwarfe and Stark Families..Please know our thoughts and Prayers are with you always.

Terry and Jean Davis

June 3, 2012

we are so sorry for your loss. joanne was a beautiful soul who will be missed dearly. our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficcult time. Randy,Christine and Michelle Campbell

Gwen&E.j Bradley

June 3, 2012

Brooks and family, We are so sorry for your loss. Thought's and prayer's will alway's be with you all. Joanne will be greatly missed by everyone. Gwen, E.J, Patrick Bradley , ( West Potsdam )

Tammy Sapp

June 3, 2012

Our thoughts and prayers to the Bigwarfe and Stark family. Joanne was a wonderful person and will be missed by everyone.

The Sapp Family (Keith, Tammy, V, Bre and KJ)

Debby & Justin Marcellus

June 2, 2012

She will be missed by many! Our thoughts and prayers go out to her family.

The Marcellus Family

peggy Murray

June 2, 2012

My thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and co-workers.

Tracy Green

June 2, 2012

Brooks and family,

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together. So sorry for your loss.

Tracy, Kelsey, Corson and Karley Green

June 2, 2012

I am a very close friend of Pauline Rabideau and she has expressed how upset she is about a life lost way too young. On behalf of Pauline and myself, we wish our deepest sympathies to the family, I sorrow, Sgt. Liam Smith

Lee Mittelstaedt

June 1, 2012

Joanne was my friend, principal, co-advisor to K-Kids: She will always be in my heart.

Sherri Bajza

June 1, 2012

Condolences to Joannes family and all that had the honor of knowing what a wonderful person she was.

Debby Sweeney

June 1, 2012

Steph and Jo, words just arn't enough in a time like this, just no my prayers are with you all.

June 1, 2012

Brooks , Stephanie, and family. I'm so very sorry to hear about Joanne. My condolence's go out to all of you. Elaine Ames [Potsdam]

Laura Pike Stevenson

June 1, 2012

Brooks and Family: I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. My thoughts are with you.

Jerry & Sheila Kelley

June 1, 2012

We are so sorry for your loss. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
Jerry & Sheila Kelley

Chrissy Ayers Gilson

June 1, 2012

I had the honor of knowing Joanne thru Susan, I can say that Joanne was a truly wonderful caring person. From her beautiful smile, to her warm caring personality, she touched many lives, and will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your families through this time of sadness.

Dan Carey

June 1, 2012

Brooks and Family,
I am sorry for your incredible loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Sincerely,

Lan riisnes-norton

June 1, 2012

May this candle burn always in your name joanne. Each day I'm outside wondering ok which cloud is she sitting on and watching us from.. When ever I see a litted cloud during sunset, sunrise I think its her looking down because of its true beauty..

Marilyn Deon

June 1, 2012

I am so sorry for your loss. I knew Joanne from Curves and she always made working out a lot more lively and fun. I am sure she will be missed by many. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.

June 1, 2012

RIP MRS Bigwarfe u will be greatly missed at the norwood norfolk school and at all the other one and by everyone else god bless your soul RIP

Wendy Beardsley

June 1, 2012

My thoughts and prayers are with you during this very sad time. I knew Joanne in college (Canton) and she was a very sweet and fun loving person who made all that knew her happy to be her friend.

June 1, 2012

Joe and Stephanie Our Condenlence goes out to you and your famliy Joanne touched so many lives and made a great difference to the children that she touched her memory will last forever and will be sadly missed by everyone

Red and June Mallette

Christine Scuderi

May 31, 2012

So sorry to hear about your loss. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Christine Scuderi

Karen White Davis

May 31, 2012

I am thinking of your families and friends and praying for strength and love to help guide you all through the sad time. Blessings to all.

Sonya Speer

May 31, 2012

My thoughts and prayers go out to all of Joanne's family and friends..May god bless you all during this time of grief.

Maureen Logan-Daniels

May 31, 2012

I am heart-broken for all of you in Joanne's family (Brooks and children especially) and her circle of friends - which I imagine is quite large. Joanne was a true gem. I haven't seen her since high school in 86, but recall clearly what a beautiful person she was - inside and out.

May 31, 2012

"I'm so sorry to hear about joanne.She was amazing person.My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

jackie bock

May 31, 2012

"I'm so sorry to hear about joanne.She was amazing person.My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Mike, Liane, Carleigh and Saydie Eggleston

May 31, 2012

Our sincere condolences go out to the Bigwarfe and Stark family. We are thinking of all of you, and will keep you in our thoughts and prayers through this difficult time. Lean towards your family and friends all allow them to help you in anyway they can. God Bless you all!

Linda Gering

May 31, 2012

My sincere condolences to all of Joanne's family. May your memories bring comfort to all of you.R.I.P. Joanne.

Anne, William, Kailey, and Kyle Martens

May 31, 2012

Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.

Maureen Kelly

May 31, 2012

Please accept my sincere condolences for your deep loss. I retired from teaching at NNES four years ago and was fortunate to have worked with Joanne while she was our CSE Chair. She was professional, considerate and very pleasant to work with. I know she must be leaving you with many precious memories. I hope they become a comfort to you in time.

Kathleen Tebo

May 31, 2012

Mrs. Bigwarfe was such a wonderful advocate against bullying and helped my daughter who was being bullied at NNCS. She was always kind, upbeat and helpful. My daughter Hannah adored her and is heartbroken at her passing. God bless all of her family that remains here, one day you will be reunited in God's glory. We are praying for you during this difficult time.

Susan Villnave (Blanchard)

May 31, 2012

My thoughts and prayers are with all of you during the loss of a wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend. My the Lord help you to find pease through this tremondous loss!

Denise Durant

May 31, 2012

Joanne was such a wonderful, caring person. I had the pleasure of working with her every day. Each day she came in with her beautiful smile and positive attitude. She loved the children and they loved her. She made it a point to know each and every one of them by name and it was her goal to make sure that they received the best educational opportunities available. I will miss her terribly and am grateful that I had the honor to be part of her staff.

Kelly Sochia D'Amour

May 31, 2012

My families thoughts and prayers are with Joanne's family at this difficult time. She was a special person who's smile brightened the world. God bless and know that she is with God.

Erin (Huckans) Kindar

May 31, 2012

When I think about Joanne, I think about how she was so full of life, laughter and love-- it seems impossible that she is gone. I started my teaching career at Parishville in '99, the same year as Joanne. She was one of those special people who you could not help but gravitate towards. So much fun and absolutely hilarious are the words that come to mind when I think of Joanne. What I also remember is what an amazing mother she was, she was just a natural. I also remember how much she loved her children. It was the same way with her students. She was always there to help guide, nurture, and encourage her special education students, who were often the ones who disliked school the most. Joanne never gave up on them. Her loss leaves a huge hole, one that I know can't be replaced.
The last lesson Joanne has taught me is probably the greatest lesson and one I will never forget: hold your family close, hug them, laugh with them, love them because our time her on Earth is limited. Thank you Joanne for being a part of my life and for making it better.

Jill LaCoss

May 31, 2012

We are so very sorry to hear of your loss. Joanne touched so many lives. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Bob, Jill, Robby and Dana LaCoss

Cheryl Clark

May 31, 2012

Words cannot begin to express how deeply saddened I am to learn about Joanne's passing. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I taught with Joanne at Parishville for many years before moving to the Albany area and pursuing a similar career path in administration. She will always be remembered as such wonderful person, so full of life and laughter, and for her love of kids! I am so sorry for your loss.

Tammy Russell

May 31, 2012

My condolances to the Stark and Bigwarfe families. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Patti Pennington-Greene

May 31, 2012

Please know that you will all be in my thoughts and prayers. Joanne was a wonderful friend to me and I have beautiful memories of her as a girl and young lady. She will be watching over us now, guiding her children and keeping us smiling as we recall her bright smile.

Roxanne Stratton

May 31, 2012

I am sorry for your loss. She will always be remembered she touched so many hearts and brought smiles to everyone.

Benjamin Gushlaw

May 31, 2012

I am a student at NNCS and I was just informed that Mrs. Bigwarfe had passed away. I am so sorry for your loss.

Karen Waite (Blair)

May 31, 2012

So sorry

Colleen Ayers

May 31, 2012

My deepest sympathies to the Stark and Bigwarfe families on your loss. I went to college with Joanne at SUNY Canton 20+ years ago and we shared some classes together as well as Greek life. Every so often we would run into each other in town and reminisce for a few minutes. She had a lot of energy and a zest for life as long as I have known her. She had the most brilliant smile and was such a thoughtful and sincere person. She touched the lives of many and will be greatly missed.

Barbara Wahlstrom

May 31, 2012

Joanne was a wonderful person and a very good friend. I will miss her and continue to pray for her family at this difficult time.

Ed Penny

May 31, 2012

To Joanne's Family, I am so sorry for your loss. Joanne was a special, wonderful and amazing person who touched the lives of everyone she met. I had the pleasure of working with her at NNCS and was so proud to call her my friend. She will be missed deeply and things will not be the same without her, she will never be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with your entire family. Rest in peace my friend.

Pauline Murray-Rabideau

May 31, 2012

I can't even begin to say how sorry I am for the family and their loss at this time, Joanne IS a wonderful women and she will always be remembered for her smile and her inner beauty. Heaven has surely gained an Angel, her husband and children will always have a angel looking down on them. Much love always.

Katherine Koen Crowley

May 31, 2012

So sorry to hear about you loss. My prayers are with your entire family at this time.

Barbara Royce

May 31, 2012

I am saddened to hear of your loss. I got to know Joanne when she began working as a special education administrator at Norwood-Norfolk. Although I didn't work with her very long, I enjoyed her sense of humor and her caring for students. She was a wonderful person and will be greatly missed. My condolences are extended to you and your family at this most difficult time.

Cindy Adams

May 31, 2012

So very sorry for your loss and our loss.Joanne was a special gal!!!

william andrus

May 31, 2012

to brooks and family,my deepest sympathy for the loss of your wife and mother,no words could ever express the loss of a love one,i am sure god has a special place for her, and she will always will watch over the family

Joanna Storrin

May 31, 2012

Our deepest Sympathy to Mrs.Bigwarfe's family from the Storrin Family.

Shawn/Stacey Green

May 31, 2012

May the love of those around you help you through the days ahead. Joanne was a beautiful person inside and out and she will be missed.

Mary Anne (Hayes) White

May 31, 2012

To Joanne's Family,
Words don't fully express how terrible your loss is, Joanne had a special zest for life that she shared with everyone she came in contact with. I know that your wonderful memories will help each of you cope as best you can.My thoughts and prayers are with you! Sincerely, Mary Anne

Marci Arbo (Jones)

May 31, 2012

May silent angels sing thee to thy rest and may the family know you were the best
Your gentle ways meant so much
In all the lives that you have touched
My prayers are with those left behind
I'll remember you were so very kind
God must've needed an angel true
Because that's what He saw in you
Too young, too soon is what we feel
I hope He helps the family heal
Heal within and heal without
We'll miss you Joanne, there is no doubt

Dave&Carol Waite

May 31, 2012

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

Shelley Spooner

May 31, 2012

Brooks and family,
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Shelley Spooner
Hammond Central School Counselor and
CSE Chairperson

Regina Randall (Rose)

May 31, 2012

There are no words at a time like this except May God be with you and your family Brooks, Konner and Kristie and the Stark Family. Know Joanne will live on always for she touched many lives in a special way that will never be forgotten. I know it was a great honor for me to grow up with Joanne and know her myself. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. May she rest in ever lasting peace. Angels above are singing!!!

Tina Taillon

May 31, 2012

Brooks and Family very sorry for you grief words can't even begin to express the sorrow left in many people in-which Joanne had touched there heart in someway.May your family find peace knowing that she was loved.

Meaghan/Rob Voss

May 31, 2012

Brooks and Family,
Joanne had a way of making kids feel happy, safe, and comfortable. Truth be known she had a gift of doing that for the parents as well. In fact, she personally stayed with my daughter after school until I could get off work several times. It was always so nice to be greeted by her whenever we visited the school. All three of my children loved and adored her. She will be missed emensely... thoughts and prayers to all of you.

Cheyne, Maisie, and Bobby Voss

Brittany Bisnett

May 31, 2012

My condolences to Mr. Bigwarfe, Kirstie, and Konnor. Im so sorry for your loss, she was such an incredible teacher, and overall a kind, classy lady. I feel lucky to have learned from her.

~Brittany Bisnett, and Family.

Mark and Pam Tishberg

May 31, 2012

To the Bigwarfe and Stark families and friends, our deepest condolences and sympathies go out to you. Joanne was such a great person, she will be missed by many. The Tishberg Family

timothy McGregor

May 31, 2012

Brooks and family i am very sorry for joanne.Kaylee and Tyler Beamis loved her very much they r in NNES Kaylee cryed when i told her.We all send our prays to yous GOD BLESS

Sally Remington & Kevin Ames

May 31, 2012

Brooks and Family: Thinking of you at this very difficult time, Joanne was a very special person, never saw her without that beautiful smile she had! She will be missed. We are so sorry for your loss.

Carrie Tracy

May 31, 2012

Brooks and family, I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you...Carrie Tracy

Debbie Snell

May 31, 2012

So very very sorry to hear of such a wonderful person being taken away at such a young age. Brooks and family, our deepest heartfelt sympathy for your loss. Debbie Snell/Dave Power and families

Trinity's family~ The Sessions

May 31, 2012

Brook's and family, so sorry to hear of your loss.You will be in our thoughts and prayers.

Patricia Penny-Cutler

May 31, 2012

My deepest sympathy goes out to the family of Joanne. She was truly an inspiration to all that knew her. Joanne will be missed by so many, and will never be forgotten.

NNES will not be the same now, Joanne loved the kids and they loved her.

Rest In Peace Joanne

Maureen Carrara

May 31, 2012

Brooks, Konner and Kirstie, I am so sorry. Your mom was a wonderful woman. She always had the greatest smile. I was blessed to be her friend. She touched so many lives, we will never forget her. You will always be in my prayers. Maureen Carrara

Eugene Ford

May 31, 2012

Brooks, I did not know your wife, but this is something no one or no family should have to go thru at such an early part in their lives. My thoughts are with you and the rest of your family. I'm so sorry for your loss. Eugene C. Ford

May 31, 2012

Brooks and family, We are so very sorry to hear about Joanne our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family . Tim and Sally Amo

Sharon Miller

May 31, 2012

Joanne made some a difference in so many lives. She was a fantastic, caring person and my daughter was blessed to have her as a teacher at Parishville. She always met you with a smile and made you feel special just knowing her. She truly cared about each and every child. My deepest sympathies to your family and know many of us are praying for your family now.

Cathy & Kim Avadikian

May 30, 2012

Stephanie, Joe and family. Words do not seem to be enough. Joanne was a wonderful woman and will be missed by so many people. Though she was here a short time, the world will forever be changed because of her work and existance. Our hearts go out to everyone who loved her.

Tracy & Todd Moody

May 30, 2012

May you find comfort in your memories of such a wonderful daughter, mother, wife and friend. Fond memories will keep her spirit alive; her legacy will live on.

Carol Hanson

May 30, 2012

Joanne was a student in my third grade class and I remember her fondly. It was a pleasure to see her grow and develop in her very successful career over the years. Her goodness will live on through the lives of her students!

Tony & Courtney Woods/Family

May 30, 2012

Dear Brooks, Konnor, Kirstie and Family,

Please accept our sincere sympathy for your loss. Joanne was an amazing woman who managed to bring joy to everyone and every situation. We will miss her immensely. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.

Kevin and Candy Bates

May 30, 2012

Brooks and the family~ our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this sad time. Joanne was a shining light who touched the lives of many people....We hope your memories of Joanne will give you strength and peace to carry you through this tough time. We are so sorry for your loss.

May 30, 2012

I'm so sorry for your devastating loss. My prayers are with you.
Steve Neveroski PA

Jennifer Lauzon

May 30, 2012

"A teacher affects eternity: she can never tell where her influence ends." Henry Adams
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief. I will always remember her smiling face in the hallways of NNES. She was a wonderful person and my kids loved and adored her. Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever. Our thoughts and prayers are with you!

Jude, Sophie & Dylan Lauzon

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Garner Funeral Service

10 Lawrence Ave, Potsdam, NY 13676

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February 7, 2013

JAMES LAVELLE posted to the memorial.

October 30, 2012

Someone posted to the memorial.

June 26, 2012

Kathy Londraville posted to the memorial.