Richard C. Day January 17, 1930 - May 7, 2026 It is with deep regret that Major Peter C. Arcadi, Troop B Commander, announces the passing of retired Captain Richard C. Day, on May 8, 2026, at the age of 98. Captain Day entered Division service on April 16, 1952, serving 26 years, and retiring in 1978. Captain Day last served as the Administrative Captain, Troop B Headquarters. Richard C. Day Obituary Captain Richard C. Day, 96, passed away peacefully on May 7, 2026. Affectionately known as Dick to many, he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, and retired New York State Police Captain of Troop B in Malone. Born in Westerleigh, N.Y., he was the son of the late Augustine Day and Lorena (Lashway) Day. He attended school in Plattsburgh, N.Y., and graduated from Mount Assumption Institute in Plattsburgh, N.Y. He later attended Champlain College and the State University of Albany. Dick was strong-willed his entire life. He graduated high school at 16 and, determined to serve his country, enlisted in the United States Marine Corps by adjusting his paperwork to meet the age requirement. That determination carried through every part of his life. He proudly served during World War II and was later called back during the Korean War, where he served as an explosives expert. After his military service, he dedicated his life to law enforcement with the New York State Police. He enlisted as a State Trooper in 1952, advanced to Corporal in 1960, and was promoted to First Sergeant in 1962, Lieutenant in 1968, Zone Commander in 1970, and Captain of Troop B in Malone in 1975, a rank he held until his retirement in 1978. During his distinguished career, he also taught at the New York State Police Academy and received numerous commendations in recognition of his service, leadership, and dedication. After retirement, he served for many years as the Franklin County Democratic Chairman and sat on the Franklin County Fair Board. Dick was a longtime member of the Franklin County Community Action Agency and the Franklin County Historical and Museum Society, where he enjoyed teaching at the House of History. He was a past Commandant of the Marine Corps League, member of the American Legion in Chateaugay and a lifetime member of the Malone Lodge of Elks. On July 17, 1950, he married the love of his life, Arlene (Stiles) Day. Their marriage was built on loyalty, love, and a lifetime of shared memories. Dick and Arlene especially cherished their daily trips to the Cherry Knoll, where they were welcomed like family and built lasting friendships. After her passing, Dick continued those visits, finding comfort in the familiar place and the people who meant so much to them both. Dick was an avid New York Yankees fan and rarely missed a chance to cheer them on. He is survived by his children, Richard H. and Sharon Day of Depew, N.Y.; Daniel C. Day and his companion Roxanne Boadway of Malone; and Amanda Day of Malone; his son-in-law, Leonard Spinner, widower of his daughter Lucinda A. Spinner; his siblings, Brian LaPlante (Lucie) of Malone, N.Y., and Elaine LaPlante (Dottie Ducatte) of Keeseville, N.Y.; and his grandchildren, Stephanie Demers (Carl Demers III) of Constable, N.Y.; Sarah Spicer (Marcus Spicer) of Malone; Arianna Munn (William Munn) of Saranac Lake, N.Y. ; Beth O'Kussick (Lee O'Kussick) of Grovetown, Ga.; and Jeffrey Day of Lockport, N.Y. He also leaves many cherished great-grandchildren, along with nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who loved him very much. He was predeceased by his infant son David Day, his daughter Lucinda A. Spinner, his sister Jean Moore, and his beloved wife Arlene. The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the doctors, nurses, and aides at Alice Hyde Medical Center for the care and compassion given to Dick during his final days. Calling hours will be held Monday, May 18, 2026, from 4pm to 7pm at Bruso Funeral Service in Malone. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Notre Dame Church on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 10:30am. Dick will be remembered for his strong will, his loyalty to family, and the steady presence he was in all of our lives. His legacy lives on in the family he built, protected, and loved so deeply. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Foothill EMS Ambulance Service.

Lisa Lynne Abeel 1972 - 2026 Lisa Abeel is the daughter of Capital District Chapter Member Henry Abeel and the sister of Senior Investigator Henry J. Abeel, Sr. Obituary of Lisa Lynne Abeel Lisa Lynne Abeel, 53 of Clifton Park, NY, passed away on May 8, 2026, at Ellis Hospital after a brief illness. Lisa was born in Niskayuna to Henry "Hank" and Marcia Abeel on May 24, 1972. For those who don't know Lisa had Cerebral Palsy and attended numerous schools during her academic career. She graduated from the Center for Disability Services in 1993 and once served as the "Poster Child" for their annual Telethon. Lisa lived with her parents and sole caregivers for the remainder of her life. She enjoyed raising miniature horses at the families "Pasture Puppy" Farm in Clifton Park. Lisa and her parents were also well known at Grooms and Moe Roads for her "Minnies" and the EXTENSIVE annual Christmas decorations that rivaled the Griswold's. Lisa is survived by her parents Hank and Marcia Abeel, brother Henry "Hank" Abeel (Courtney) of Clifton Park, NY, niece Morgan Abeel of Richmond, Virginia, nephew Henry Abeel (Erika) of Johnsonville, NY, nephew Brayton Whalen of Clifton Park, NY and her new great-nephew Henry Abeel of Johnsonville, NY. She is also survived by several close family members and dear friends. Celebration of Life will be held from 10:00 am until 12:00 noon at Catricala Funeral Home, 1597 Route 9 Clifton Park, NY 12065 on May 14, 2026, with a memorial service at 11:45 followed by a gathering for family and friends at Hank and Courtney's. In Lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Estherville Animal Shelter 100 Rus

1969 -- Paul -- 2026 Paul K. Cituk August 16, 1969 — May 2, 2026 Wells Wells – Paul K. Cituk, 56, passed away Saturday, May 2, 2026 at Albany Medical Center surrounded by his loving wife and family. Born in Schenectady, NY on August 16, 1969, he was the son of the late Walter A. Cituk and Janice B. (Butryn) Cituk. He was a graduate from Mohonasen High School and later earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science from Elmira College in 1991. After 27 years of devoted service, Paul retired as an investigator for the New York State Police. He was recognized during that time as a 1st responder at Ground Zero. Paul loved living at the lake where he enjoyed boating, fishing, snowmobiling and spending time with friends and family. He also enjoyed vacationing and bowling, which is where Paul and Phyllis met. He was an avid baseball and NY Yankee fan along with NASCAR and the Miami Dolphins. Paul loved his yearly hunting trips with family and friends. Paul was also a member of the Rotterdam Elks Lodge #2157, Rotterdam Fraternal Order of Eagles #3610 and the Vero Beach FL Moose Lodge #1822 and on the board of the Iroquois Rod and Gun club. Paul leaves behind his loving wife of 11 years (together for 18 years) Phyllis Cituk and his son Alexander Paul Cituk. His brother Stephen Cituk (Jacquie). His Uncle and Aunts Richard Cituk, Paula (Dennis) Veteramo and Donna (Michael) Imfeld. As well as brothers-in-law, Paul and Dan Rifenburgh. Paul is also survived by several nieces, nephews and cousins. Paul also leaves behind his faithful canine companions Trooper and Hunter. Paul would do anything for his family, especially for his wife and only son. They were his world. He will be deeply missed by all and he will always be in our hearts. Calling hours will be held Sunday from 3-6 pm at DeMarco-Stone Funeral Home 1605 Helderberg Ave., Rotterdam. Funeral services will begin 11 am Monday at the Funeral Home. Burial will follow at St. Adalbert’s cemetery, Rotterdam. Memorial donations may be made in Paul's memory to NY State Police Investigators Association: Emergency Assistant Fund 421 Loudon Rd. Albany, NY 12211 or the NY State Troopers PBA Signal 30 Fund 120 State Street, Albany, NY 12207.

Trooper Lanzatella served in Troop D from 06/18/62 until resigning in12/24/66. Philip J. Lanzatella July 18, 1939 — January 31, 2026 Rochester Rochester, NY: Passed away peacefully January 31, 2026, age 86. Son of the late Philip I. and Rose Lanzatella. Predeceased by his wife, Claire, and brother-in-law William Kremer. Survived by his children Philip J. Lanzatella Jr. (Melody), Christine (Richard) Wildman, and David Lanzatella; sister Mary Lou Kremer; grandchildren Johnathan Shankovich, Ashley (Scott) Prior, Lauren and Philip Lanzatella, Matthew (Sandra) Lanzatella, Joshua (Courtney) Cawley, Alexander Wildman, Nicholas Cawley, Benjamin Wildman, Claire Wildman, Kaitlin Lanzatella, and David Lanzatella Jr.; five great-grandchildren; and many family and friends. Funeral Mass Saturday, February 14 at 11 a.m. at Christ the King Church, 445 Kings Highway South, Rochester, NY. Donations may be made to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, 159 Sapsucker Woods Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850.

NYSPIA Weekly Update This week’s message began with condolences for Sergeant Matt Barrett of Troop A, who tragically passed away last week. Members were encouraged to keep his family, friends, and coworkers in their thoughts and prayers. The message again emphasized the importance of mental and physical wellness, reminding members that law enforcement continues to face elevated risks related to stress, trauma, and suicide. Members were encouraged to utilize available support services, including EAP and counseling resources, and to look after one another both personally and professionally. NYSPIA also noted that Division Planning and Research is continuing work with both NYSPIA and the PBA to develop an expanded wellness resource page for members. Recent legislation, including the Joseph Banush Law, was referenced as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen protections for officers seeking counseling and mental health support. The message also highlighted significant enforcement activity conducted this week by Troop F CSU during “Operation Plate Check,” a coordinated initiative involving CSU, local BCI investigators, and multiple law enforcement agencies throughout Sullivan County. During the operation, Trooper Hand conducted a traffic stop on State Route 17 that led to a major weapons seizure. According to the update: Three individuals were taken into custody following the stop. Trooper Giga and K9 Cal responded to assist. Investigators recovered 89 firearms, including 17 reported stolen handguns and a loaded AK-47. Multiple agencies, including JTTF, Safe Streets, and SIU, became involved in the investigation. The incident was cited as an example of proactive policing, interagency cooperation, and the importance of communication between specialized units, troopers, and federal task forces. The message concluded with recognition of the professionalism and dedication of CSU personnel and all members involved in the investigation, along with continued encouragement for members to stay safe and support one another.

Ann V. Masterson October 11, 1946 - April 30, 2026 Ann is the wife of retired Zone Sergeant Paul Masterson. Ann V. Masterson Obituary Ann V. Masterson passed peacefully on April 30th, 2026 surrounded by her loving family. Survived by her husband Paul G. Masterson, Sr.; children Margaret Mulligan (Dean), Paul Masterson Jr. (Lori), Eric Masterson (Danielle), and Catherine Masterson (Michael); five grandchildren Bridget, Hope, Hailey, Morgan and Brooke; brothers Kenneth Opar (Barbara) and Thomas Opar (Cathy, deceased); sisters-in-law Susan Masterson, Ellen Culliton (Jack); brother-in-law Peter Masterson (Rose) and several cousins, nieces, nephews and extended family. Born in Troy, NY on October 11, 1946, the oldest of three children to John and Julia Opar of Watervliet, NY. Rooted in her Ukrainian heritage, Ann attended St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church later graduating from Catholic Central High School and earning her master’s degree from Mount St. Mary College. Prior to marrying, Ann was a schoolteacher for the Town of Colonie. She met Paul in the Winter of 1971 and married in January 1972. Shortly after marriage Ann chose to dedicate her life to family, raising four children with her husband Paul in Troy. Once the children were raised Ann returned to teaching completing a storied career of 28 years positively impacting the lives of countless students and colleagues. Ann loved travel, culture, cuisine, and fashion; including yearly family vacations, trips to Europe, and fifteen years of enjoying and sharing their beloved Cape Cod home; family and friends were always wanted and welcome. In 2020 Ann relocated to Saratoga Springs, enjoying all Saratoga life has to offer. Retirement included exercising with friends at the YMCA, swimming, golfing, volunteering at the National Museum of Racing, weekly trips to the library and nightly card games with her husband. Ann’s reach in this world was far and wide, always one to speak her mind and share her love. Family and friends are invited from 9:00 am to 10:45 am with a eulogy at 10:45 am and funeral mass at 11:00 am all on Friday May 15, 2026 at Our Lady of Victory Church 55 North Lake Avenue, Troy. The family asks all donations be made to ¨The Aid of Ukraine¨ and sent to Saint Nicholas Catholic Church 2410 4th Avenue, Watervliet, NY 12189.

Everette Laplante May 22, 1936 – May 3, 2026 Everett "Bud" LaPlante is the father of retired Trooper Mark LaPlante and brother of deceased First Sergeant Victor LaPlante (CD Chapter). After a long journey Everette (Bud) LaPlante crossed over peacefully on May 3, 2026. Born in Medusa Albany, NY on May 22, 1936, Bud would have been 90 on May 22nd. He is predeceased by his parents Lillian and Everette LaPlante. Bud was one of eight children; Vic, Butch, Yvonne, Phyllis, Betsy, Tommy, and Teddy. Bud lived a full life on the family farm. He graduated in 1954. In 1955 Bud enlisted in the army. He was part of the Armed Fire Control Unit until he was discharged in 1958. He then returned to the family farm and had a few different jobs until 1962 when he took a position with the NY State Police as a trooper. He continued his career until he rose to the rank of senior investigator with the Bureau of Investigations retiring after 34 years of excellent service in 1996. It was during this time that he became a loving father to sons; Mark, Ken, Vic LaPlante, Daughter; Dawn Ray (Jamie). In 1996 he met and married Frances Ture (Cookie) and shared the rest of his life, a friendship, and love for 30 years. Cookie brought 4 children into their marriage; Denise Hoffman (Dale), Sharron Cataldo (Mike), Cindy Neilen, and Stan Eddy. Bud embraced Cookies children as his own. Bud had several grandchildren and several great-grandchildren that he cherished. His family was number 1 in his life. Bud was a devout catholic and had an extremely strong faith. He enjoyed fishing, camping, and hunting with his family. Golf was also a favorite past- time. When Bud retired he so enjoyed his pontoon boat for fishing and driving through the canals in florida. He also enjoyed pistol shooting with his buddies at the range. In retirement, while living at continental country club, he was involved in many activities and a proud member of CCC Veterans Club at one time being commander and treasurer. He also felt blessed to be chosen for the honor flight. Bud was described by many as kind, a true gentleman and had a spirit that radiated with all. His smile was infectious. His love of life and all God's beautiful creations was obvious. His sense of humor was dry at times and made you laugh. A beautiful soul is finally home. Services Tuesday,May 19, 2026 Celebration of Life 11:00 am - 3:00 pm Dignity Memorial Life Celebration Center 7134 Powell Road Wildwood, FL 34785

C. Vaughn Lewis C. Lewis Obituary C.Vaughan Lewis of Westmoreland, New York, passed away peacefully on February 8th, 2026. Born August 1st in Warwick, New York, he was the son of Dr. C. Vaughan Lewis and Francis M. (Hesters) Lewis. A proud American patriot, he loved his country and lived his life with loyalty, hard work, and devotion to his family and friends. He was raised and educated in Poughkeepsie, New York. He had a lifelong love of classic and Antique automobiles. He especially enjoyed cruising in the summer in his yellow Corvette with its red interior and traveling throughout the United States with his granddaughter Juliana to car shows where he proudly displayed his treasured 1929 Lincoln. He is survived by his significant other of 25 years, Karen Macri; his daughter Jan (Nathan) Croft of North Carolina; and Karen's children, Kristina Powers of Yorkville, and Tanya Macri of North Utica. His grandchildren include Juliana Powers, the light of his life, of Florida; Lloyd "LJ" Powers of Florida; Jaiden Stewart of North Utica; Tristin and Grayson Croft of North Carolina; Tanner Lewis and Ellie Lewis of Las Vegas. He was predeceased by his parents; his sister Sandra "Bimsey" Swancott; his brother John Lewis and his children Patricia, Linda, Christopher, and Edward "Teddy" Lewis. He is also remembered by extended family and friends including a special niece Leslie Kish of California; Laura and David of California; Ken Gimelli of California; Phil Caruso of Clinton; Ray and Rich Madore; Tom Blackstone; and Todd Todd of California. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the Westmoreland Volunteer Fire Department, Valley Health Care - especially Louie Piazza and Joanna - and to Tanya Macri for their compassionate care. Vaughan will be remembered for his patriotism, his wisdom, and his love for his family and friends. Many will picture him happiest behind the wheel of his yellow Corvette with its red interior as he blasted his country music and enjoyed the freedom of the road. Donation can be made to St Jude's Children's hospital. Arrangements are under the guidance of John L Matt Funeral Home, Chadwicks, NY. To send an online greeting go to www.johnlmattfuneralhome.com To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store. Obituary published on Legacy.com by WKTV on Feb. 10, 2026.

Debra Ann Strack May 7, 1953 - May 5, 2026 Debra Strack is the wife of Adirondack Chapter Member Francis Strack. Debra Ann Strack Obituary Debra Ann Strack, 72, of Lake Placid, New York, passed away unexpectedly at home, with the love she spent a lifetime giving. Debbie, born May 7th, 1953 in Rockville Centre, New York, and moved to Lake Placid at the age of 16 with her family, who had long loved visiting the area. Her family purchased and operated the Maple Leaf Motel, where Debbie worked during her high school years. She attended Lake Placid High School, where she met the love of her life, Francis, who, after several determined attempts at courting her, stole her heart forever. Debbie was the beloved wife of Francis (Fran), with whom she shared 53 devoted years of marriage. Together they built a life centered on family, commitment, and enduring love. For more than 30 years, Debbie dedicated herself to caring for children through her work in family childcare. She recently retired, leaving behind countless families who were touched by her patience, warmth, and her nurturing spirit. She had a special gift for making every child feel safe, valued, and loved. She was a QUALITYstarsNY participant and nationally accredited through the National Association for Family Child Care. She generously volunteered her time with the Family Child Care Association of New York State (FCCANYS), and the National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC) holding board positions for many years. This reflected her lifelong commitment to early childhood education and advocacy. Debbie and Fran were also avid campers, enjoying seasonal sites throughout Vermont and northern New York. Their camps became treasured gathering places where they loved hosting friends and spending time with family and their grandchildren, creating memories filled with laughter, family, and togetherness. Debbie found joy in crafting, tending to her gardens and bird watching, always appreciating the simple beauty around her. She was also well know for keeping Fran on his toes with her ever-present "honey-do" lists, a reflection of their playful and devoted partnership. Debbie was a devoted mother to Beth Sweet (husband Travis), Kelly Loftis (husband John), and Frank Strack (wife April). She was a proud and loving grandmother to Emerson Sweet, Harper Strack, Bennett Sweet, Xavier Loftis, Abel Loftis, and Noelle Loftis, each of whom she adored. She will be forever remembered by her grandchildren for making "Grandma famous spaghetti" for their birthdays, a tradition that brought them joy and will live on in their hearts. She is also survived by her sisters, Joan Hallett-Valentine (husband Patrick) and Stacy Towers (husband Brian), and her brother, Walter Hallett. She is further survived by her sisters-in-law, Patty Wood (husband Larry) and Delia Strack, along with many extended family members and dear friends. She was predeceased by her parents, Walter and Joan Hallett (Butler) of Lake Placid, NY, who welcomed her home. Debbie will be remembered for her gentle heart, her unwavering support of her family, and the joy she found in caring for others. Her love will continue to live on in the lives of those she touched. Calling hours will be held Friday, May 8th, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at M. B. Clark, Inc., Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Saturday, May 9th, at 11:00 AM at St. Agnes Church in Lake Placid. Rev. John Yonkovig will officiate. Please visit www.mbclarkfuneralhome.com to share a memory, upload a photograph, sign the online guest book or leave condolences to be added to the tribute book for the family to cherish.

Kenneth Joseph Kotwas April 29, 2023 Kenneth Joseph Kotwas, 82, of Cicero, passed away on Saturday at Crouse Hospital. He was born in Auburn, NY and attended East High School, Auburn Community College, and the New York State Police Academy. Kenneth was a career New York State Trooper from September 10, 1962 to April 1, 1998. He was Station Commander of Troop D and retired as a Zone Sargent. He performed his Trooper duties for many years on a Harley Davidson. He is a member of Sacred Heart Church in Cicero. Kenneth was also a member of the Knights of Columbus for 53 years, 4th degree, Association of the New York State Former Troopers (16-year former President), American Association of State Police, New York State Trooper PBA, United Police and Fire Retirees, Fraternal Order of Police, as well as a member of Onondaga Cycling Club, Onondaga Ski Club, and Harley Owners Group. For several years, Kenneth was chosen to operate a crime scene command vehicle from the Syracuse area to all over the state which assisted with serious crime as well as search details. He wrote the operation manual for that vehicle. He enjoyed downhill skiing, especially at Lake Tahoe, Nevada, and Whiteface Mountain. He biked with OSC in a couple of Century rides in Salisbury Maryland. Kenneth loved cruising and took many trips to the Caribbean, the Baltic and Mediterranean. From his youth his father took him and his brothers to the racetrack and it turned into a lifelong passion of handicapping horses. He took pride in the fact that his brothers considered him the best handicapper in the family. He loved his August trips to Saratoga. Kenneth was predeceased by his father, Dr. William Kotwas; mother, Emily Pzczolkowski; and sister Gwendolyn Nicosia. Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Kathleen (Kay) Kotwas; daughter, Kristin Carpenter; brothers William Kotwas of Augusta, GA and Richard Kotwas of West Barnstable, MA; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, May 4th from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at FARONE & SON, Inc. Funeral Home, 4899 W. Taft Road, Liverpool. Funeral service will be on Friday, May 5th at 9 a.m. at the funeral home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at Sacred Heart Church of Cicero, 8229 Brewerton Rd., Cicero. Kenneth will be laid to rest in Our Lady of Peace Cemetery. Contributions may be made to the American Heart Association and Anna's Pantry Food Bank at Sacred Heart Church in Cicero, 315-699-6401. Share condolences at www.faroneandsoninc.com