George L. Ayotte

It’s with great sorrow that the Ayotte family announces the passing of George Ayotte, 95. George is predeceased by his wife of 67 years, Simone Ayotte. George leaves behind 4 children: Diane Ayotte of Hammond, Louise (Randy) Wright of Morristown, Susan (David) Stout of Brier Hill and John (Darlyn) of Barre Ont. 8 grandchildren: Jessica Ayotte of Ballston Spa, Randy (Jennifer) Wright of Issaquah, Victoria (Michael) Barrett of Endicott, Aaron Stout of Gloversville, Abigail Stout of Brier Hill, Anna Marie Stout of Dekalb, Jared & Jensen Ayotte of Toronto along with 2 great grandchildren: Madison & Reid Barrett.

George was born Louis-George Ayotte in Herouxville Quebec to parents Azeline and Napoleon Ayotte on January 9, 1931. Like many children of the depression, George only attended school until grade 8, needed to work to support the family. Along with his brother, he went to work in the lumber camps of Hudson Bay at the age of 14. He worked lumber camps for 6 years before taking up carpentry. George moved to Cornwall when his company got the contract to move the city of Long Sault as part of the St Lawrence Seaway project. This is when he met Simone Campeau and they married December 26, 1954. Six years later, when the Seaway project wrapped up, they purchased a dairy farm in Hammond, NY with bother-in-law, Leopold (Rollande) Martin. The Martin and Ayotte farm was very successful, at its high point over 1,000 acres and 500+ head of cows.

At the age of 65 George retired from farming and focused on his yard at his and Simone’s retirement home. He kept his yard and garden in pristine condition and helping out his daughters with the odd job. George was very active in the community as well, never saying no when called for any supporting role. He was particularly proud of assisting in the restoration of the Hammond Museum.

When the homestead became too much, George and Simone moved to Millsite Manor where they both lived out their years. Active members in the Millsite community where he always had the best looking garden.

The Ayotte family greatly appreciates the outpouring of support and well wishes from those that George Ayotte has touched and come to know. A Funeral Service will be held in honor of George on Monday July 20th at 12:00pm at the Fox & Murray Funeral Home with Rev. Leagon Carlin officiating. Visitation hours will be held prior to the funeral from 10:00am to 12:00pm at the funeral home. Entombment will be at the Oswegatchie Mausoleum.

Memorial donations can be made to the: St. Lawrence Co Office of the Aging, Meals on Wheels, 80 St. Hwy 310, Canton NY 13617.