Obituaries

Posted December 01 2020

Page Sponsor

Posted April 19 2024
Richard M. Vendetta

MIDDLEPORT – Richard M. Vendetta, 86, entered into eternal rest on April 18, 2024. He was born on August 26, 1937 in Medina, NY, a son of the late Thomas Anthony and Amelia Marie (nee Castricone) Vendetta.

Rich attended and graduated from Medina High School in 1955. Following graduation, he joined the US Navy and served until 1958. He worked for the Medina Police Department before accepting a position working for Harrison Radiator Division, General Motors Corp. plant security, where he retired in 1992.

Rich started volunteering for the American Red Cross in 1976, as a First Aid and CPR Instructor, as well as an EMT with Tri-Town Ambulance. In 1982, Rich was awarded the American Red Cross Certificate of Merit by the Eastern Niagara Chapter. The highest award given by the Red Cross to a person who saves or sustains a life by using skills and knowledge learned in a volunteer training program. He enjoyed hunting with his family, golfing with his sons and bowling with the guys.

Besides his parents, Rich is predeceased by his second wife, Joan P. (nee Jarvis) Vendetta; and his siblings Thomas J. (late Barbara) Vendetta, Joann V. (late Francis) Beyer and Carol Petkus.

He is survived by his children, Richard M. (Karon) Vendetta, Jr., Duane A. (Jean) Vendetta, Kimberly A. (Greg) Nogle and Scott T. (Sandra) Vendetta; grandfather of 13 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren; brother of Francis (Deborah) Vendetta; also survived by his former wife Nancy L. (nee Smith) Vendetta and many nieces and nephews.

The family will be present to receive friends on Monday, April 22, 2024 from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Cooper Funeral Home, 215 West Center Street, Medina, NY.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, April 23, 2024 from Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church, 211 Eagle St., Medina at 11 a.m. Family and friends are asked to please assemble at the church.

Arrangements by the Amigone Funeral Home, Inc. In lieu of flowers, memorials are strongly encouraged to be made to Niagara Hospice. Please share condolences at www.AMIGONE.com.

Posted April 19 2024
Gertrude Szymanski

GASPORT – Gertrude Szymanski, age 99, died April 19, 2024 in Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital. She was born August 9, 1924 in Albion to Felix and Beatrice Kryzinski and was a life-long resident of this area.

Gertrude was a person who took great pride in being a homemaker. She tended to her family with love, affection and great care. Gertrude loved to travel, especially to the Southwest, and enjoyed reading as well. She liked to go on hikes as well as spend time gardening but, her greatest joy was taking care of her family and the home.

Mrs. Szymanski was predeceased by her husband, Alexander; and her siblings, Chester, Edward and Leonard Kryzinski, and Lucille Gross and Florence Whiting.

She is survived by her son, Michael Szymanski; as well as several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends at the Sherrie Bream Funeral Home, 4521 Main St., Gasport, on Monday, April 22, from 4 to 7 p.m. where her funeral service will be held Tuesday at 11 a.m. Interment will follow in Cold Springs Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, 5001 Angel Canyon Rd, Kanab, UT, 84741.

To share a special memory of Gertrude, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Posted April 19 2024
Bruno P. Pacini

MEDINA – Bruno P. Pacini of Medina, New York, formerly of Middleport, passed peacefully in the early hours of April 19, 2024 after a brief illness. He had celebrated his 102nd birthday this past January.

Born in North Tonawanda, New York on January 21, 1922, he was the son of the late Guy and Leontine (Bourdon) Pacini.

He graduated from North Tonawanda High School and was ready to enter Niagara University on a football scholarship when WWII intervened. He entered the Army in October of 1942 and served as a Staff Sergeant until February 1946. Upon leaving the service, he went back to Niagara University to continue his education. He earned his BS degree in Social Science in 1950 and his MA in 1951.

His teaching career was spent at Royalton-Hartland in Middleport where he taught Social Studies for 27 years. In addition to his classroom duties, he coached his favorite sport of football and at his retirement in 1977, this respected coach had the football field named in his honor. After his retirement he went on to be elected Royalton Town Justice, a position he would hold for 12 years.

He was also a member of the Clute Phillips Post 938 of the American Legion in Middleport and the Knights of Columbus. He was the last surviving member of the original inductees of the Foundation Award Winners of the Niagara Orleans League. He was proud to have been inducted into the North Tonawanda Football Hall of Fame, the Niagara University Hall of Fame and the Roy Hart “Proud to be a Ram” Wall of Fame.

Beside his parents, Bruno was predeceased by his wife Bertha (Pope) Kilworth Pacini and his brother Charlie and sister-in-law Shirley.

He is survived by his step-daughter Gina (Mike) George; step-granddaughters Audrey (Casey) Tuohey and Emily (Michael) McLaren; as well as great-grandchildren Brayden, Gavin, Shay and Camryn; two nieces Sandra (Edmond) Hess and Charlene (David) Gwinn. He will be missed by many long-time friends from his years in Middleport, his friend Jean Chatt of Medina as well as the many young men he coached over the years who long after graduation still kept in touch with their coach. He was deeply touched by the many former students and friends who attended the re-dedication of the football field.

There are no prior calling hours. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Stephen’s Roman Catholic Church on Friday, April 26th at 10 a.m.

Burial with military honors at St. Mary’s Cemetery on Wednesday, May 1st at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, friends may donate in his memory to a charity of their own choosing.

To share a special memory of Bruno, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Posted April 19 2024
Serina M. Dixon

MEDINA – Serina M. Dixon, age 47, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, April 10, 2024.

She was born October 12, 1976, a daughter of the late Kathleen (Dixon) Munn.

Survivors include her sons, Dillon (fiancé Karlee) Winters of Lyndonville, Austin Winters, Zachary Winters (Natilie Leno) of Rochester and Dominic Winters (Mila Molina) of Medina; grandson, Adrian Winters; and stepfather, Jack Munn of Medina.

She was predeceased by her mother, Kathleen Munn in 2019.

Funeral services will be privately held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina.

Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

Posted April 19 2024
Shirley A. DePalma

MEDINA- Shirley A. DePalma, of Medina, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 17, 2024 at the Medina Memorial Hospital- North Wing Skilled Nursing Facility, a day shy of her 83rd birthday.
Born April 18, 1941, in Medina, she was a daughter of the late John E. and Lelia M. (Allport) Brazzell. Shirley graduated from Medina High School in the class of 1959. She went on to earn an associate degree in accounting from Genesee Community College.  Shirley had a long career with Bernzomatic in Medina. She started out as a tow motor operator and then worked in the accounting department, retiring in 2004.  Shirley was an avid reader. She also enjoyed bowling, playing softball and loved to play cards.
Left to cherish her memory are her daughters, Robin (Todd) Houseman of Albion and Teresa (Ryan) Wilkins of Medina; grandchildren, Mercedes (Cody) George, Reagan Wilkins and Lucas Wilkins; great-granddaughter, Madison George; nieces and nephew, Cheryl (Brad) Albone, Fritz (Dawn) Kopitzki and Rhonda (Keith) McKinney.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date this summer. Interment will be in Bates Road Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the North Wing SNF- Activities Dept., 200 Ohio St., Medina, NY 14103. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences atwww.cooperfuneralhome.com.

Posted April 19 2024
Elizabeth “Betty” Baird

WEBSTER – Elizabeth “Betty” Baird, age 86, of Webster, New York, passed away on April 14, 2024. She was born on February 12, 1938, in Albion, New York, to Madalyn and Rulison Bigger. She was one of the many sets of twins in Albion that grew up on Erie Street.  Elizabeth was a very positive, upbeat, and caring person who cherished and sacrificed for her family above all else. Her life revolved around family, and she loved to travel, have fun, dance, sing, and live life to the fullest.

Elizabeth was a talented writer, known for her poems for children and adults, as well as a book. She began her career as a registered nurse, working in hospitals, nursing homes, and private duty. She attended Genesee Hospital School of Nursing and Albion High School.  She was a wonderful nurse!

In the early years, Elizabeth loved belonging to Oak Hill Country Club and playing golf and bowling with friends.  She was also a member of the Eastman Oratorio Society.

She is survived by her daughter, Victoria Snowden; son, Thomas Andrew Sugden; son-in-law, Joseph Snowden; daughter-in-law, Lisa Sugden; grandchildren, Shane Sugden, Julia Sugden, Thomas Snowden, and Robert Snowden; and sister, Jane Hail. Betty was preceded in death by her parents and grandparents. Her twin sister Peggy Pieters passed away April 16, 2024, following her sister and now they are together again!

Elizabeth’s hobbies included dancing, singing, and writing, cooking, shopping, and walking five miles a day. She worshiped at St. Thomas Episcopal Church. Rochester Cremation in West Henrietta, NY, is assisting the family with arrangements.

A Memorial Service to celebrate Elizabeth’s life will be held in August. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made by performing an act of kindness in her honor. If anyone wishes to correspond with the family, please send any and all to 500 Jondor Drive, Webster, NY 14580.

 

Posted April 19 2024
Francis H. “Frank” Slingerland

BROCKPORT – Francis H. “Frank” Slingerland. Passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Thursday April 18, 2024, at the age of 86.  He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Pat, children Patty Keady, Francis “Frank” (Sue) Slingerland Jr., Mary (Joel) Johnson and Denise Slingerland, 10 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, brother Richard “Dick” (Maureen) Slingerland,  and many nieces and nephews.

Frank was a great husband and father, who adored his grandchildren and great grandchildren.  He was an avid outdoorsman, a Scout Leader and a jokester.  He loved his camp, four wheeling and hunting.  Frank will be dearly missed.

A future Celebration of Life will be held at the convenience of the family.  Those wishing may contribute to a charity of your choice in Frank’s memory.

 

Posted April 17 2024
Frank L. Mandigo “Pops”/”Poppy”

KENDALL – Frank L. Mandigo “Pops”/”Poppy”, 79, of Kendall, NY passed away on 12/20/23 surrounded by love.  He was born May 27, 1944 in Watertown, NY, son of the late Lewis and Dorothy Smith Mandigo. He graduated Watertown High School in 1962.

He served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War and then worked until retirement (at an early age) at Rochester Products.  He was the most generous man who loved making people smile, going fishing, hunting, telling stories and playing cards but most of all he loved his family.

He is predeceased by his stepfather Lawrence Lowe, his brother David Mandigo, and so many precious friends including his ex-wife and forever friend, Darlene Mandigo Willett.

He is survived by his adored children Dennis Mandigo, Lori Yockey, Kelly (Joe) Furness, Stacy (Jeremy) Dean-Prince; grandchildren Nichole (Roger) Phillips, Jessica, David and Nicolas Mandigo, Sam (Kim) and Mariah Giglio, Jaden and Jason Conn, Brody Furness, Jesse, Alexis, Anna, Ramsey and Alena Dean-Prince; Great grandchildren Hayley (Dylan) Phillips, Nolan Phillips and Aveena Mae Richards; Great great grandson, Lorenzo Ruffini. He will also be missed by his loving sisters Alice Sheldon, Jean Cornell and Dorothy Novotny and loving brother Bill Mandigo; Special nephew Jeff Mandigo, in addition to several other nieces, nephews and cousins.  He will be fondly remembered by so many friends we couldn’t begin to name – you all know who you are.

Friends and Family please join us for a celebration of life for both Frank and Darlene on Saturday April 27th, 2024 from 1 – 5pm at the Carlton Rec Hall, 1853 Oak Orchard Rd, Albion, NY 14411.

Posted April 17 2024
James F. Davis

WEST BARRE – James F. Davis, age 87, passed away April 16, 2024 at Medina Memorial Hospital.  He was born September 6, 1936 a son of the late Theodore and Ellen (Hitchcock) Davis and had lived in this area all of his life.

 James was a member of the West Barre Church.  He farmed for many years and he and his wife Marjory founded the Jam-Mar Farm in W. Barre.  James retired from Harrison Radiator in Lockport in 1999 after 34 years.

 In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his loving wife Marjory; infant son Clifford Henry Davis; sisters Anna Mae (Gerald) Hughes, Janet (Gene) Marsh, Mary Jane Miller, Sharon Davis; brother John (Melia) Davis; brother-in-law Edward “Skip” Omeara.

 He is survived by his children David (Jann) Davis, Lynette (Aaron) Kozlosky, Marlene (Erik) Seielstad; grandchildren Kerri (Jeffrey) Higgs, Megan (Brent) Martin, Morgan Seielstad, Riley Seielstad; brother Jerry (Irene) Davis; sister Eileen Omeara, as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

 The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, 21 W. Ave. Friday April 26th 2-4pm & 6-8pm.  His Funeral Service will be held Saturday April 27th at 10:00am at the West Barre Church, 5377 Albion Eagle Harbor Rd., Albion NY 14411.  Burial will be in Millville Cemetery.  Memorials may be made to the church.

 To share a memory of Jim, visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Posted April 16 2024
Kathleen Gwen Smith

MEDINA- Kathleen Gwen Smith, 59, went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Friday, April 5, 2024, following a lengthy illness. She was born April 25, 1964, to the late Adeline A. (Panchenko) Smith and Garra H. Smith.

Kathleen is predeceased by her parents and brother, Gregory Emil Smith. She is survived and sadly missed by her brother, Jeffrey D. (Charlene Murray) Smith; sister, Judith K. Clonan-Smith (Erik Hahn); her much-loved nephew, Jeremiah G. Smith and nieces, Guinevere E. (Alan) Panek, Jocelyn L. (Devin) Foran; as well as her beloved great nephews and nieces, Graham, Alannah, Dudley, Anwyn, Brenna, Eli, Grady, and Margaret and many cousins near and far.

In 1982, Kathleen graduated from Medina High School, having completed the Allied Health (CNA) program through the Niagara/Orleans County BOCES, and earned an Associate of Science in Education from Genesee Community College.  She embarked on a career serving others as a lead teacher at the Medina Head Start, a Private Residential Trainer in Albion, a Direct Support Professional for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities with Empower WNY in Niagara County, and as an Independent Living Specialist for the WNY Independent Living Center in Buffalo, until she retired from the public sector.
Jesus’ love shone through Kathy at her true home church, Oak Orchard Assembly of God, which she attended for much of her adult life.  She was a past director of vacation Bible school and much-loved Sunday school instructor, who delighted when children ran to her, calling, “Teacher Kathy!”  She was an active member of the Wednesday Morning Women’s Bible Study.  Kathy loved them and they loved her, supporting one another for many years.  She had been a member of various Christian organizations in the region where she was past president and VP of Oasis Women’s Fellowship and Flame Fellowship, respectively.  Kathy had been a literacy volunteer and with Special Olympics.

Kathy was known for her kindness, sense of humor, and great love for her Lord. A child at heart, she took great joy in the laughter and antics of children.  Kathy enjoyed providing activity experiences for church kids, family, and friends from her great store of games and art materials.  She liked to play a gentle, practical joke or two on the unsuspecting like sending a CNA classmate to the supply cupboard for fallopian tubes.  Even when her own health was failing, she was generous with her time and energy…always thinking of fun things to bring to her church school students.  Kathy enjoyed the family dogs and cats, especially her own dog, Little Louie and her canine-nieces and nephews.

Calling Hours are Wednesday, April 24 from 4-7 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina.  Kathleen’s Celebration of Life service will be held Thursday, April 25, at 10 a.m., at Oak Orchard Assembly of God, 12111 Ridge Road (Route 104), Medina, NY, followed by a luncheon at the church.  Her ashes will be interred at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in W. Shelby, NY.

For those who wish to do so, a memorial gift may be made to Oak Orchard Assembly of God, earmarked Children’s Ministries or to the WNY Independent Living Center. Share memorials and condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

Posted April 16 2024
Nancy M. (Williams) Burch

ALBION- Nancy M. (Williams) Burch, age 80, passed away at the Harris Hill Nursing Facility on April 14, 2024 after a long illness. She was born April 19, 1943 in Naples, NY to the late James and Genevieve (King) Williams.

Nancy was an avid tv show enthusiast with some of her favorites being NCIS, Chicago PD, Law & Order, the Hallmark and TBN channels as well as anything that was religious based. She worked for over 30 years at the Orleans County Nursing Home as a housekeeper and a nurse’s aide.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband Edward Burch in 2007, grandson, Matthew L. Piepenburg, siblings Beverly, Linda, Shirley, James Jr. and special grand dog, Bob.

Nancy is survived by her children, Amy (Robert) Durham, Steven (Denise) Williams, Beth (late Daniel) Shea, stepchildren, Michele, Tina, Tammy, Lee, grandchildren, Faith (Eric) Ware, Brandon (Ashley) Shea, Scott (fiancé Carol) Shea, great-grandchildren, Honna, Thaddeus, Micah, Benjamin, Anthony, Lynndan, siblings, Larry (Linda) Williams, Janice (late Bob) Stewart, Jane (Dan) Ross, longtime best friends, Gail and Howard Smith as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Nancy’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 21 West Ave. Albion, NY 14411 on Friday, April 19th from 4:00-8:00pm. Her funeral service will be held Saturday at the funeral home at 11:00am with interment following in Mt. Albion Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Nancy’s name may be made to Faith Alliance Church 3305 Oak Orchard Rd, Albion, NY 14411.

To share a special memory of Nancy, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com

Posted April 13 2024
Keith D. Brakenbury

CHURCHVILLE – Keith D. Brakenbury, of Churchville formerly of Albion, passed away after a four-year battle with cancer on April 12, 2024 at the Wilmot Cancer Institute in Rochester. He was born October 31, 1959 in Albion to Richard and Constance (Kwiatkowski) Brakenbury.

Keith enjoyed traveling to various places over the years. He spent over 25 years working for Home Depot in the Rochester area before retiring from the Henrietta store. He was active in and loved to be a part of the Rochester Gay Men’s Choir and was a big fan of RuPaul. Keith and his husband Jeff cherished time together camping, going to museums, or relaxing at home with their four cats and dogs, Parker, and Monty.

Keith was predeceased by his mother, Constance in 2020.

Keith is survived by his loving spouse, Jeffery Bodine; father, Richard Brakenbury; siblings, Kyle (Colleen) Brakenbury, Kevin Brakenbury and Ondrea Brakenbury Pate; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins and friends.

Keith’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 21 West Ave. Albion, NY 14411 on Tuesday, April 16th from 5 to 7 p.m. where his Celebration of Life Service will be held at 7 p.m. Keith will be laid to rest with his mother at Old St. Joseph’s Cemetery on Brown Rd. in Albion on Wednesday at 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Keith’s name may be made to Wilmot Cancer Institute or for HIV/AIDS research, amfAR.

To share a special memory of Keith, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Posted April 12 2024
Dr. Elaine B. Richards

MIDDLEPORT – Dr. Elaine B. Richards (Nee Black), of Middleport, entered into rest on Wednesday, April 10, 2024.

Born July 3, 1932 in Buffalo, she was the daughter of the late J. Elmore and Dorothy H. (Sommer) Black.

She married the late Walter B. Richards on December 7, 1957. Dr. Richards earned a master’s degree from Buffalo State College and went on to earn her Ed.D. in Education from SUNY Buffalo. The couple resided in Hamburg, NY and then lived in Middleport for many years.

Dr. Richards had a long and accomplished career as a teacher in early childhood education for Orleans-Niagara BOCES in Sanborn. She retired in 1999. Following retirement, she enjoyed volunteering as a docent at the Albright Knox Art Gallery in Buffalo. Dr. Richards was known as a counselor and confidant to many, but most importantly was a devoted wife, and loving mother and grandmother.

Predeceased by her husband, Walter B. Richards in 2004; brother, Donald E. (W. Elaine) Black; nephew, Brian Black; and niece, Donna Siegel.

Left to cherish her memory are her son, Ross W. (Lisa) Richards of Lockport; daughter, Marguerite E. Richards of Middleport; grandsons, Aaron, Aidan and Ethan Richards; and several great-nephews.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday, April 14 from 3 to 6 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina, where her funeral service will also be held the next morning, Monday, April 15 at 11 a.m. Interment will follow at 2 p.m. in Forest Lawn Cemetery, Buffalo.

Memorial donations in Dr. Richards’ memory may be made to either the Erie or Niagara County SPCA. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

Posted April 12 2024
Wanda D. Oakes

LYNDONVILLE – Wanda D. Oakes, 93, of Lyndonville, NY, went to her heavenly home on Thursday, April 11, 2024, at Hospice of Orleans with her loving family at her side.

She was born on May 18, 1930, in Mays, Indiana, the daughter of the late Osro and Mae (Plummer) Draper.

Wanda was raised during the Depression on a small farm in Indiana. After graduating from Mays High School in 1948, Wanda continued her education at Ball State Teachers College, where she met her future husband, James Oakes, on a blind date during a sorority/fraternity mixer. They were wed on December 22, 1950. After the passing of her father-in-law, Leonard, the couple returned to Lyndonville to manage the family farm, which was to be known as LynOaken Farms, while raising their five children.

Wanda was a lifelong member of the Lyndonville United Methodist Church and was well known for her beautiful soprano voice, gracing many weddings and funerals. She loved her time portraying Mrs. Claus for the church Christmas Mini Mall and was an active participant of the Company of the Concerned, visiting the shut-ins and elderly of the community.

Wanda served on the Board at Medina Memorial Hospital for many years as well as TWIGS. After raising her children, Wanda focused on helping out with the family farm on events and during harvest. She had a compassionate and caring nature for her family and community. Wanda was also proud of her Hoosier heritage and maintained a close relationship with her Indiana friends and family. She was an avid reader and NBA fan and had a life-long love of hosting visitors from all over the world including international students from American Field Service.

Wanda is survived by her five children: Darrel (Linda) Oakes, Deborah (Ralph) Oakes, Diane (Rev. Daniel) Thurber, Dana (Paula) Oakes, and Wendy (Darren) Wilson. She also survived by eight grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents and husband James, who passed in 1998, Wanda is predeceased by two sisters, Anna Louise and Virginia Joyce, and a great-grandson.

Relatives and friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, April 16, 2024, at the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 112 N. Main St., Lyndonville, NY 14098. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Wednesday at 3 p.m. at the Lyndonville United Methodist Church, 102 N Main St, Lyndonville, NY 14098, with the Pastor, Rev. Timothy Schultz, officiating and the Rev. Daniel Thurber co-officiating. The burial will be private for the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Wanda’s name to the Lyndonville United Methodist Church or Hospice of Orleans, 14080 Route 31 West, Albion, NY 14411.

The Oakes family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the doctors and staff at Medina Memorial Hospital, United Memorial, Rochester General, and Hospice of Orleans for their excellent care and compassion.

Please light a candle or share a memory of Wanda at www.bogantuttlefunerals.com.

Posted April 11 2024
Eleanor Louise King

ALBION – Eleanor Louise King, entered her rest on April 5th, 2024.  Born to Joseph and Mary (Rogers) Lipsett on October 8th, 1947 in Sunbury, PA. 

Predeceased by husband of 41 years, Wayne Leroy King; brother Arthur Lipsett; sisters Eileen Hunter and Rose Ackley; daughter Tammy King; daughter-in-law Michelle King; and great-grandson Nicholas Torregrossa Jr.

Survived by sister Pat (Tom) Gamble, sons Todd and Joseph (Connie) King, daughter Roxanne (Marv) Dobson, and numerous grandchildren, nieces and nephews. 

Eleanor worked for many years as a home health care aide, deeply committed to those under her care.  A petite lady with a big heart for all God’s creatures, Eleanor enjoyed yard sales, decorating, and family get-togethers.

A private graveside service will be held in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Albion at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: PAWS, 3371 Gaines Basin Rd., Albion, NY, 14411. 

Eleanor’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home of Albion.  To share a special memory of Eleanor, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com

Posted April 11 2024
Nancy A. Tash

LEROY – Nancy A. Tash, age 87, formerly of Lake St. Rd., passed away on Sunday (April 7, 2024) at the LeRoy Village Green Nursing Home.

She was born February 20, 1937 in Batavia, a daughter of the late John and Ruth Azinger Miller.

Nancy will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother, sister, companion and dear friend.  She started working her working career at Murphy’s 5 & 10 in LeRoy and went on to be a sales associate at Twin Fair in Batavia.  She was a 40+ year member of the Stafford ladies auxiliary and enjoyed traveling; visiting much of the U.S. as well as Okinawa, Japan.

She will be sadly missed by her daughters, Cheryl McEwen (D. Bruce Becking) of Medina, Lori McCaffery (Dane Brege) of Batavia, Christy (Thomas) Scheuing of LeRoy and Colleen Tash of LeRoy; her “like a daughter”, Laura Phillips; her brother, Gary Miller of LeRoy, along with many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Nancy was predeceased by her longtime companion, John Zimber; sisters, Marilyn Pasquale and Lorraine Curry and sister-in-law, Catherine Miller.

Family and friends may call on Monday, April 15 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Falcone Family Funeral & Cremation Service Inc., 8700 Lake St. Rd., LeRoy, where her Celebration of Life Service will be held at 1 p.m. Interment in Machpelah Cemetery will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to either the American Diabetes Association or to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Your memories and condolences may be shared with Nancy’s family at www.falconefuneralhome.com.

Posted April 09 2024
Raymond Eugene VandeBogart

BROCKPORT – Raymond Eugene VandeBogart, 90, of Brockport passed peacefully at Hildebrandt Hospice Care Center on April 6.

Raymond is predeceased by his wife Marilyn and 6 siblings.

He is survived by a son Steven (Renna) VandeBogart of Florida and his son, Clayton (Shaunie) VandeBogart, and grandchildren Raina and Aria VandeBogart, daughter Tammy (Greg) Smith of Brockport, and her children Janelle (Matt) Hennard, Kelly (fiancée Kacey Sauer) VandeBogart, Courtney (Seth) Deeren, and grandchildren Gavin and Noah Hennard, Julian and Jonathan Sauer, and Wyatt and baby girl (due in July) Deeren, Brother Jan (Janice) VandeBogart, sister Judy (Dave) Demers, and sister-in-law Cindy (Jim) DeTar as well as several nieces and nephews.

Ray will be remembered as a quiet, kind man who was always up for a good laugh. Family members will see Ray at the top of a mountain, in a calm lake, whenever they see a sailboat or hear a loon. As an avid nature lover, Ray spent many summers at the family cabin in Inlet, NY on Limekiln Lake. He would often wake with the sun and take the kayak, loaded up with a camera and his beloved cocker spaniel, Heidi, out on the lake for a morning paddle.

Aside from his love of the outdoors, Ray also enjoyed watching Nascar races and learning about computers. Truly a lifelong learner, he was always learning new things.

A handy man at heart, Ray worked for Brockport Central School as the head of maintenance for 38 year. Between his childhood, growing up as one of 9 kids in rural New Hampshire and working on the neighbors farm, and his time working in maintenance, there was nothing Ray couldn’t fix or learn to fix.

Ray was a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and served overseas in the Korean war. Upon returning to the states he met his wife Marilyn in California where they lived before returning to Marilyn’s hometown of Brockport. After retiring, Ray and Marilyn moved to Port Orange, FL. where they lived for 17 years before returning to New York to be closer to family. During his time living in Florida, Ray enjoyed building and racing RC sailboats with a local sailing club.

Ray spent the last 2 years at Evergreen in the memory care facility. The family would like to thank those who took extra special care of him and loved him as much as his family did.

Ray prearranged for his body to be donated to the University of Rochester. In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Ray’s honor to Hildebrandt Hospice Care Center via rrhgive.org and selecting rrh Hildebrandt Hospice Care Center Fund in the gift designation drop down.

The family will host a celebration of life to be announced at a later date.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Fowler Funeral Home, Inc.

Posted April 08 2024
Jean “Jeanne” Fuller

SHELBY – Jean Carol “Jeanne” Fuller, 80, of Shelby, NY, passed away after a brief illness on Sunday, April 7, 2024, at the Hospice of Orleans, Albion, NY.

Born on May 5, 1943, in Batavia, NY, she was raised by the late Randall and Georgeanna Allen.

Jeanne graduated from Oakfield-Alabama High School in 1962. She worked for 30-plus years and never missed a day due to sickness at the former Specialized Printed Forms in Caledonia, NY. She married Thomas Fuller on May 27, 1978, and they owned and operated Tom & Jeannes Family Restaurant for nearly 20 years. She enjoyed baking pies, gardening, and organizing family events in her spare time.

Jeanne is survived by her husband of 45 years, Thomas Fuller; two step-sons, Randy (Chrissy Palisano) Fuller of Medina, NY, and Brian (Lindsay Fiddler) Fuller of Erie, PA; two granddaughters, Alexandra and Gabriella Fuller; siblings, Gary (Janie) Bauer, Don (Maryann) Allen, David (Carol) Allen and two sister-in-law’s Connie and Marylou Bauer. Also surviving are her brothers and a sister-in-law, Alroy (Gail) Fuller, Charles “Huck” Fuller, John Fuller, Gordy Fuller, and CeCe Wilson, and two special nieces, Michelle (Bob) Grazioplene and Jennifer (William) Wilson.

In addition to her parents, Jeanne is predeceased by two brothers, Richard and Ralph Bauer, and her sister, Shirley Sheelar.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Hospice of Orleans and their staff for the care given to Jeanne.

There are no calling hours. A private service will be held at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Jeanne’s name to the Richard Knights-Sue Kaderli Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 684, Medina, NY 14103.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St. Medina, NY 14103.

Please light a candle or share a memory of Jeanne at www.bogantuttlefunerals.com.

Posted April 08 2024
Sharon E. Weiss

BARKER- Sharon E. Weiss, age 66, died April 5, 2024 in the Niagara Hospice Residence.  She was born January 14, 1958 in Buffalo to Leroy and Lorrain (Wieczorek) Short and was a life-long resident of this area.
Sharon loved to cook, enjoyed spending time in her gardens, as well as crocheting.  She was also very family oriented and enjoyed her spending time with her family.  Mrs. Weiss was predeceased by her parents.
She is survived by her husband of 32 years Ken, her children: Mindy (Ted) Saum of CA, Adrienne (Nick) Muellenbach of WI, Kristy (Alex Jandreau) Weiss of Potsdam, her brother: James Short of Sloan, her grandchildren: Elaine Saum, Brianna and Tyler Muellenbach as well as several nieces and nephews.
There will be no calling hours and her services will be held privately at the convenience of the family.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: The Barker Public Library, 8673 Church St., Barker, NY, 14012.  Sharon’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Sherrie Bream Funeral Home of Gasport.  To share a special memory of Sharon, please visit: mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com

Posted April 03 2024
Raymond H. Martin, Sr.

Raymond H. Martin, Sr., passed away at his home on Tuesday, April 2, 2024.

Ray was born on December 27, 1936 in Cambria, NY, a son of the late Norman and Ruth (Abt) Martin. He was employed as a steelworker at Simonds Saw & Steel Co. in Lockport for 29½ years. Ray was an avid hunter and horseman.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his longtime partner, Audrey Brigham in 2013; and two brothers, Jimmy Martin and Jerry Martin.

Left to cherish his memory are his children, Kenny Martin, Russell Martin, Linda Martin, Raymond Martin, Jr., Timothy (Sarah) Brigham, Ann (Willie) Gottenberg, Tina (Scott) Kelley and Dean (Shelly) Brigham; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; his brother, Gordon (Joan) Martin; and several nieces and nephews.

Per Ray’s wishes there will be no funeral services. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.