Obituaries

Thomas William (Billy) Usherwood, 78, unexpectedly passed away on February 22, as a result of an apartment fire. His beloved cat Pyewacket, was also lost.

He was born on May 5, 1943 to Louis F. and Anne M. (Brown) Usherwood, Syracuse, NY. Mr. Usherwood attended Valley High School. In 1965 he became an elevator technician, working with Otis, Davis, Schindler/Millar, Midstate and Dover companies though the International Union of Elevator Constructors. He continued until 2004 when he retired. In 1970 he founded Valley Pizza Villa located in Syracuse and then relocated to Oswego, NY in 1974 to raise his family and open the Pizza Pub located at 141 W. Bridge St., where it continued until in 2010 when he retired, after 40 years in business.

As a young man, Billy loved boating, skiing, scuba diving, and playing hockey with the Lauren Kirkby Hockey League in Syracuse. As an adult he traveled often throughout New York State and especially loved Alexandria Bay. He truly loved his career in elevators and was continuously fascinated with their inner workings. He had a rigid work ethic and held at least two jobs at all times. Billy adored his immediate and extended family and remained as close to them as possible. Billy had a great sense of humor and enjoyed playing small pranks on friends and family members. He took interest in others and enjoyed socializing. Over the years he became a avid fan of country music and spent hours listening to it. But mostly, Billy quietly enjoyed the outdoors and wildlife as he spent hours feeding squirrels and walking with his dog. His last contribution on this earth was to to fully care for his partner in life, Linda Bartosek. Linda passed in November of 2018 after her long battle with cancer.

Mr. Usherwood is survived by daughter, Lisa A. Usherwood Licitra (Carmen) Baldwinsville NY, grandchildren - Matthew and Nathan Licitra of Baldwinsville, step-daughter Jennifer Bartosek Johnson former spouse, Sharon R. Usherwood, Baldwinsville, brother Charles I. Usherwood, Sr., Cicero and many nieces and nephews. Mr. Usherwood is predeceased by daughter, Lori L. Usherwood, his partner in life, Linda Bartosek, brother George B. Usherwood, sisters Jane E. (Usherwood) Tanner and Noreen A. (Usherwood) Bishop and his much beloved dog, Princess.

Arrangements for Mr. Usherwood have been made by the Dowdle Funeral Home in Oswego, NY. While there are no calling hours, a graveside burial will be held for both Billy Usherwood as well as Linda Bartosek on May 23rd at Nedrow Valley Cemetery at 11 AM.