June A. (Kainu) Pelham

June Ann (Kainu) Pelham, passed away peacefully on February 2, 2025, surrounded by her beloved children.

Born in Clatskanie, Oregon, on August 24, 1934, to the late Andrew and Hilja Kainu, June married her late husband, Robert H. Pelham Jr., on January 16, 1954, at Fort Lewis, Washington. Together, they raised their family in the Village of Scotia, where she lived for over 70 years.

A devoted mother, June is survived by her five children: Robert H. Pelham III (Cindy), Linda M. Tucci (Thom), Susan C. Cooper (Clark), James L. Pelham (LaDean), and Nancy E. Cooper (Dennis). She is also survived by her grandchildren: Rachel Scott (Jason), Alyssa Brin, Stephanie Cook (Justin), Bryan Pelham (Stephanie), Gregory Cooper (Katie), Rebecca Cooper (Derek), Samantha Duplin (Mike), Shannon Uribe (Ian), Tyler Cooper, Trevor Cooper, Adam Hay, and Jamie Nelson; as well as many great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and her brother-in-law, Roger Pelham (Kathy).

June was loved by her neighbors and known for her bright smile and kind spirit. A member of the Scotia United Methodist Church, she was strong in her faith and actively involved in all aspects of church life. She particularly treasured her time as a Sunday School teacher. June's love for children extended far beyond the church. She managed the Junior High School kitchen for the Scotia-Glenville Schools, cared for many neighborhood children, volunteered with the Girl Scouts and Cub Scouts, and was an active member of the PTA. June was honored for her outstanding contributions to youth by the Scotia-Glenville PTA Council with the Founders Day Award. She also served as Junior Deputy for Onistagrawa Triangle #15 of the Organization of Triangles, Inc. Her compassion for helping others led her to volunteer regularly at the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern NY and the SICM Food Pantry.

June cherished the friendships she made as a member of Beukendaal-George Hope Chapter #271, Order of the Eastern Star, where she held the positions of Matron and District Deputy Grand Matron. She was also a member of Marvia Court No. 27 of the Ladies Oriental Shrine, an auxiliary group of Shriners of North America. She was well-known among the Masonic Family and Rotary members for her delicious meals and warm hospitality. June always served quietly, never seeking pomp or praise.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, February 13, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with an Eastern Star Memorial Service at 7:00 p.m., at the Bekkering-Ellis Funeral Home, 1 Mohawk Ave., Scotia. A church service will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Friday, February 14, at the Scotia United Methodist Church, 201 N. Ten Broeck St., Scotia, followed by a reception.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Scotia United Methodist Church, 201 N. Ten Broeck St., Scotia, NY 12302.

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