We have recently learned of the passing of Schroon Laker, Elwood D. (Soupy) Surprenant. He was 83. Soupy left this earth on Tuesday June 9, 2020, at the Glens Falls Hospital.

From his official obit:

“Elwood was born December 27, 1936, in Schroon Lake, NY the son of the late Delor and Rose LesPerance Surprenant.

Elwood was predeceased by his Sisters Anna Wilkie, Dolores Surprenant and Rita Miller, and his brother Robert Surprenant.

Elwood was the head caddy at the Schroon Lake Golf Course in the 1950s, loved golf, and enjoyed talking about all the people he caddied for over the years. He began his over 60 years of work in restaurants at Blaisdell’s Restaurant in Schroon Lake, where he did everything that needed doing, he later worked at Drake’s Restaurant and The Black Bear Restaurant in Pottersville, NY.

When it came to work, Elwood would do anything he was asked to do and do it well.

He was a member of the Schroon Lake Senior Center where he did a lot of work and called bingo. He was a member of the Schroon Lake Fish and Game Club where he did a lot of cooking and cleaning over the years.

Many years ago, Elwood discovered The Essex County Branch of Literacy Volunteers of America, learned to read, and became a spokesman for the group before the Essex County Board of Supervisors, seeking funding. He was very proud of his accomplishments.

Soupy spent his entire life in Schroon Lake, where he rode his bike, and everyone knew him. He enjoyed going on rides with friends, square dancing and calling square dances. He loved to eat and especially sweets. He attended all three churches in Schroon Lake at one time or another. He always enjoyed company and visiting about the past. He knew a little about a lot of things in Schroon Lake. Elwood Ave, his home street was named after him.

Survivors include his brother Lee (Bunny) Surprenant, several nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews, and many friends.

A funeral services were held on Friday, June 12, 2020, at 12 Noon at the Edward L. Kelly Funeral Home 1019 US Rt. 9 Schroon.