Patti A. Blais

Brasher Falls - It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Patti A. (Sienkiewycz) Blais, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt, who passed away on April 28, 2025, in her home with her family by her side after a two-year battle with melanoma.

Patti was born on October 18, 1959, daughter of the late John and Loretta (LaPage) Sienkiewycz. She lived a life filled with love and laughter, sharing many cherished moments with her husband, Denis Blais, whom she married on April 17, 1982, in Rochester, NY.

Her nurturing spirit and unwavering support were pillars of strength for her children, Angela and Jed Phillips of Winthrop, Brittany and Ryan Shorette of North Lawrence, and Jonathan Blais and companion Tasha McGregor of Brasher Falls. Some of the best moments of Patti’s life were spent making memories with her beloved grandchildren, Austin Phillips, Aleah Phillips, Ava Gagne, Parker Gagne, and Camilla Shorette. Patti is also survived by her siblings, John and Bonnie Sienkiewycz, Fred and Debbie Sienkiewycz, Deborah and Peter Unwin, and Kathy and David Dunkelberg, along with many nieces and nephews. 

Patti graduated from Massena Central High School in 1977, and Massena School of Business in 1978. She worked in a variety of jobs until 1990 when she found her passion for special education while working as a teaching assistant for St. Lawrence-Lewis B.O.C.E.S. and eventually decided to return to college to become a teacher. Patti obtained her master’s degree in special education from Grand Canyon University in 2015, and began her teaching career in 2017, which was cut short due to her illness. She formally retired from teaching in October 2024 at 65 years old.

A memorial gathering will be held in honor of Patti on May 10th at Emmanuel Congregational United Church of Christ, 39 West Orvis Street in Massena, beginning with a memorial service at 12:00pm, followed by a luncheon at 1:00pm, allowing family and friends to reflect on her beautiful life and the cherished moments shared.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in her honor to the Melanoma Research Foundation.

Arrangements are entrusted to Hammill Funeral Home in Winthrop, where memories and condolences can be shared at www.hammillfh.com.