Coping with Grief
We would like to offer our sincere support to anyone coping with grief. Enter your email below for our complimentary daily grief messages. Messages run for up to one year and you can stop at any time. Your email will not be used for any other purpose.
Fort Edward - Westol O. Slater, “Wes,” 84, previously of Fort Edward, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 7, 2025, at Morningstar of Sparks in Sparks, Nevada.
Born December 7, 1940, in Salem, NY, Wes was the son of the late Westol W. and Eleanor (Forkey) Slater. He was educated at Salem Washington Academy and went on to lead a hardworking and humble life shaped by his dedication to family and craft.
Wes spent 12 years working in the coal mines of Utah, a time that spoke to his quiet strength and perseverance. After returning to Salem, he became a self-employed contractor, specializing in slate roof replacement and repair work he took pride in and was known for throughout the community. He also delivered bulk mail for the Postal Service, always committed to doing his part in serving others.
Wes lived in Fort Edward for many years, where he built lasting friendships and memories, before recently relocating to Sparks, Nevada.
He is survived by his children: Lorene Georgianni of Phoenix, AZ; W. Daniel (Margo) Slater of Reno, NV; Sherry Slater of Munfordville, KY; and Cathy (Brett) Breault of New York. He is also survived by his siblings: Thomas (Sherri) Slater of Salem, David (Joann) Slater of Delmar, Gary (Paulette) Slater of Salem, Mary (Bolos) Mansur of Zachary, LA, and Larry (Susan) Slater of Naples, FL. Wes leaves behind many grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Wes was predeceased by his longtime companion, Pam Carlton who passed away November 27, 2010; and siblings Timothy James Slater who passed away at birth, Linda Motto, Beatrice Chadwick, Phyllis Skidmore, and Roger Slater.
A private burial will take place at Evergreen Cemetery in Salem, NY.
Memorial contributions in memory of Wes may be made to the Fort Edward Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 226, Fort Edward, NY 12828.
To share a memory of Wes, please visit www.gariepyfuneralhomes.com
The McClellan-Gariepy Funeral Home, Inc. in Salem is assisting the family with arrangements.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Westol O. Slater "Wes", please visit our floral store.
Fort Edward Rescue Squad
P.O. Box 226, Fort Edward NY 12828