Russell “JoJo” Duffney, 59, of Saratoga Springs, New York, passed away unexpectedly on January 30, 2026. Born on December 16, 1966, Russell was a familiar face to many and someone who left a lasting impression on those who knew him.

Russell was the son of Joanne Ramsey of Ballston Spa, NY, and the late Albert Leland Wicks of Albany, NY.

 Above all else, Russell was a devoted and loving father. He shared an exceptionally close bond with his daughter, Rebekkah Rich of Saratoga Springs, who was the pride and joy of his life. His love for her was unwavering and evident in every conversation, story, and memory he shared. He is also survived by his son, Jordan Weldon of Ballston Spa, NY.

Russell is survived by his siblings: Mark Wicks, Albert Wicks, Janice Wicks, Sarah Wicks, Anthony (Gina) Wicks, Stacy Wicks, and Stephany (Michael) Quevillon, all of the Saratoga Springs area. He is also survived by the mother of his daughter, an incredibly special friend, Celena Rich. As well as several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins, all of whom loved him dearly.

Russell worked at Panera in Wilton, New York, where he was known for his dependability, friendly nature, and the way he made others feel welcome with a smile or an easy conversation.

An avid outdoorsman, Russell loved fishing and spending time in nature. He also enjoyed boxing—following the sport, watching matches, and talking about legendary fighters. A loyal Minnesota Vikings fan, Russell proudly stood by his team through every season, game, and heartbreak. He also had a true passion for cooking, taking pride in preparing meals, and bringing people together around the table.

Russell’s life was a gift, and though his time here feels far too short, his love and memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. We take comfort in knowing that he is now at peace, reunited with loved ones who went before him, and resting in God’s eternal care. 

In lieu of flowers, tribute donations may be made in JoJo’s name to Albany Medical Center Foundation.

The Wicks family will be hosting a public celebration of life in the spring. Details to come via social media. 

SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY – Hal (Harold Tilden) Bigelow, born October 10, 1952, and raised in Gainesville, Florida, passed away January 29, 2026 after a brief illness. A highly skilled and accomplished cabinetmaker, Hal brought beauty, originality, and craftsmanship to his projects. His work can be found in many local homes and businesses.

A devoted father and grandfather, Hal is survived by his wife Marian of 46 years, their two sons, and five grandchildren. Beyond his work, he was an avid bridge player and teacher, sharing his knowledge and love of the game with many. Hal found joy in fishing, listening to and creating music and many forms of art, including crafting his whimsical whirligigs. He found meaning and community in his UU congregation. Hal will be remembered for his generosity, creativity, dedication to family and community, and will be missed by all who knew him.

A celebration of life will be scheduled for May.

SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY — Georgiann “Georgie” M. Pelkowski, 95, of Schuylerville, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at Saratoga Hospital in Saratoga Springs. She is now reunited with her husband, three sisters (whom she missed terribly), and many lifelong friends. 

Originally from Flushing, NY, she was born to Monica (Bowe) Mathe and Herman “Pete” Mathe, the second child of a family of six. Georgie and her husband of almost 50 years, Alfred “Buddy” Pelkowski, lived in the same house on East Adams Street in East Islip for nearly 49 years and raised their two boys there before moving Upstate to be with Georgie’s sister, Marilyn Vallone in 1998. 

Georgie was the original “Martha Stewart.” An amazing homemaker in the truest sense, she cooked three meals a day, baked from scratch daily, and loved to decorate her home (complete with hand-sewn curtains, tablecloths and pillows to match her new color scheme!) 

Georgie was a woman who loved to entertain. Upon hearing so-and-so was at the door, she would say, “The more around the table the merrier, throw another potato in the pot!” She had such a tight circle of friends and even though they lived in different states, still had a “bestie” in “Apple Alice.” 

An accomplished seamstress, Georgie made most of the clothing she wore herself. She was quite proud of the fact that she was the FIRST woman in her circle of friends to be seen in a pants suit – at a bowling banquet! Georgie was an excellent bowler and was very proud of her 300 Pin (signifying she had bowled a perfect game!). Georgie took up quilting after her two boys graduated from school and moved out of the house and was STILL quilting well into her 90s! 

Georgie was an inspiration! She was an artist, a talented illustrator, and a painter who loved exchanging handwritten correspondence with her nieces, friends, and the writing club she was a member of. An avid reader, she also loved the challenge of completing her daily crossword puzzle.  Fondly known as “The Cookie Lady” by all who knew her, Georgie brought bags of homemade cookies to her neighbors and to every appointment she went to! 

Georgie moved upstate with her husband Buddy, in 1998, but sadly lost him on 9/9/99. In 2011, Georgie and Marilyn were joined Upstate by their sister, Dee. Georgie’s and Buddy’s son, Bruce lives in Plattsburgh, and their younger son, Glenn, lives in Pennsylvania. Even with all she achieved in her life, Georgie always believed her two boys were her greatest accomplishment.

Georgie was quite the character, and she will be missed by all who knew her, especially her niece, Chris Bushee, who was her constant companion from summers on Long Island through her final years.

Georgie is survived by her two sons: Bruce Pelkowski, Glenn (Lori) Pelkowski, three grandsons, and two great granddaughters. 

A spring memorial service will be held at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery in Saratoga Springs, NY.