Geraldine C. "Gerry" Tontarski

Geraldine C. “Gerry” Tontarski, 93, of Watertown, NY, passed away peacefully on December 31, 2024, at her home surrounded by her beloved family.

She was born on October 24, 1931, in Denmark, NY, the daughter of Gerald and Mildred (Williams) Clemons. Gerry grew up on the family farm where she learned the value of hard work. She graduated from Lowville Academy Central School.

On May 2, 1953, she married the love of her life, Frederick C. Tontarski, at her family homestead. Together, they built a life filled with love, hard work, and devotion to family.

Gerry began her career as a beautician, operating a beauty shop out of her home while raising her six children. Later, she worked as a waitress at Canale’s and Benny’s Steakhouse and as a manager at the Coat Closet in Watertown. She also served as the dining room manager at the Ramada Inn for several years.

In 1978, Gerry and Fred founded FABCO, a business she was instrumental in starting and developing. She served as bookkeeper and manager, overseeing daily operations and ensuring its success. Gerry would often be seen on her tractor mowing the lawns at the business in the summer and taking care of her snow plowing contracts in the winter.

Gerry was an active member of her community, serving with the Black River Kiwanis and the March of Dimes, and volunteering with Hospice for the Memory Tree for many years. She also dedicated time to teaching swimming to individuals with special needs.

She found joy in knitting, gardening and was an exceptional seamstress. Her hand-knit mittens and hats brought comfort to cancer survivors, and she was known for her open heart and willingness to helpvanyone in need.

Gerry is survived by her six children: Frederick G. “Rick” (Eileen) Tontarski of Black River; Loren S. (Sherry) Tontarski of West Henrietta, NY; Candice J. “Candy” (Dean) Wilt; Terry L. (Shelly) Tontarski; Lucinda A. (Joseph) Hance; and Daniel C. (Jackie) Tontarski, all of Watertown. She is also survived by her siblings: Helen Bickford of California; Larry (Joan) Clemons of Oklahoma; and Jim (Jodi) Clemons of Kansas; as well as her sister-in-law, Therresa Clemons of Washington. Gerry leaves behind 14 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents she was predeceased by her husband Fred, a brother Max Clemons and a sister Patricia Twitchell.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday, January 5th from 10 to noon at Bruce Funeral Home in Black River with a funeral service immediately following at the funeral home.

Burial will take place in Sanford Corners Cemetery on Wednesday, May 7th at Noon.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Fred and Gerry’s angels - Jill, Kim, Kora, Tina, Jen, Julie, and many others for their care, love, and devotion.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Black River Ambulance Squad, Hospice of Jefferson County or the Alzheimer’s Association. Online condolences may be left at www.brucefh.com.

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