LAFARGEVILLE, NY — Blanche A. Siewertson passed away at the Samaritan Medical Center in Watertown on June 9. She was 98 years young. She was born in Watertown and raised in the Theresa area. Surviving is her daughter Jean, and four siblings.
Blanche attended LaFargeville Central School. In high school, she worked as a live-in housekeeper-assistant. She also worked in the school office and was a receptionist for the Town Physician.
After graduating from LCS, she met Carl Siewertson. On March 27, 1943, they were wed at the Asbury Methodist Church in Watertown. During this time, she was employed by Faichney Instrument.
After settling in LaFargeville, she and her husband were blessed with a son, Richard and six years later, a daughter Jean.
In her early years she was active in many associations. She was president of the PTA (Parent Teachers Association) for five years, she was also active in the Fireman’s Ladies Auxiliary and Eastern Star.
As a member of the LaFargeville Methodist Church she played many active roles. She started a youth choir, and she was a member of the adult choir (she had a beautiful voice and loved to sing). She managed many Harvest Day dinners and yearly Memorial Day barbeques.
In the late 60s and early 70s, she was employed as a cook at McCormick’s Restaurant in Clayton. She was forced to end her work outside the home dues to a critical illness and a poor prognosis.
She continued, however, to enjoy many activities. With her husband, they enjoyed the music offered in this area, square dancing, and many fun get togethers with friends. She had many interests and hobbies, sewing, crocheting, baking, seasonal craft projects with her dear friends were a few of these.
In her retirement years, they wintered in Florida. They resided at Hillside MHP in Zephyrhills. With their many friends, they helped with park dinners, gatherings, and programs.
After 2001, they returned home to live out their senior years.
In their 64 years of married life, the greatest hardship was the loss of their son Richard. He was stricken with the Asian Flu in October of 1957. He succumbed to the illness on his 14th birthday.
The love of her life, Carl, passed away, September 25, 2007. He was a man of great faith and integrity. His kind heart “and that smile” will always be remembered.
Since his passing, her daughter Jean has cared for her. Having her near was a great source of comfort and peace.
Blanche was a source of great strength and character. She was loved by many and left behind a wealth of unforgettable moments.
May she rest in peace with her beloved husband and beautiful son.
Calling hours are 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 15, at the T.R. Jetty Funeral Home in Clayton. A Celebration of Life will be held on July 9, at the Agape House (former United Methodist Church) at 11 a.m., followed by a reception at the American Legion in LaFargeville.
Donations can be made in her name to the Omar Methodist Church.
Condolences can be made at trjetty.com