Andy's grandfather passed away. Thats all I want to say right now. Mostly, because thats all I know.

edit 7-19-03

I wanted to do this before, and never did. Now that it is coming up to his birthday, and also when we found out about the cancer, I have been thinking about it a lot. I didnt realize that only 3 days ago was also their anniversary. I just feel very badly about it...

James Joseph Abess, 80, a lifelong area resident, died on Saturday, February 15, 2003, after a battle with cancer, at his home with his family at his side. He was born in New York Mills on July 24, 1922, the son of Melad and Rose Abraham Abess, and attended New York Mills schools. He served proudly with the U.S. Army during WW II. On July 16, 1955, he married Margaret Jones in Utica; a loving union they shared for over 47 years. James was formerly employed with St. Luke's Memorial Hospital and, until his retirement, operated the Old Spain Hotel in Chadwicks. He was a member of the American Legion. Throughout his life, Jim enjoyed outdoor activities like hunting, fishing and working in his garden. He was also a fan of professional wrestling. His survivors include his loving wife, Margaret Abess, of New York Mills; two daughters, Bonnie and her husband, John Temple, of Whitesboro, and Joanne O'Dell, of New York Mills; a sister, Fannie and her husband, William Duffany, of Sandy Creek, NY; four grandchildren, Jodie Chapman, of Whitesboro, Jamie Temple, of Whitesboro, Ron O'Dell and his fiancee, Amber Jaynes, of Rome, and Andy O'Dell, of New York Mills; and two great-grandchildren, Nicole and Zachary Chapman. Also included are several nieces and nephews and his good "coffee buddies" with whom he enjoyed the time spent at the Great American in Whitesboro. He was predeceased by his brother, Caram Abess; his sister, Leona Abbott; and his great-grandson and little buddy, James Joseph O'Dell. Funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family. At Jim's request, there are no calling hours. Arrangements are under the direction of the Kobielski-Kowalczyk Funeral Home, 284 Main St., New York Mills. Jim lived like a "tough guy" and died like a "tough guy" much like his idol John Wayne.

then || now