Obituaries

MIDDLEPORT/MEDINA – Patricia R. Volkosh, a resident of Medina, New York, passed away peacefully on November 17, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, and service. Born on May 22nd, 1931, in the Town of Royalton, New York, Pat embraced a life full of compassion and community spirit.

A 1949 graduate of the Royalton Hartland Central School System, Pat held a deep connection to her roots. She devoted 23 years to transporting children safely as a school bus driver for Ridge Road Express, retiring in 1993. Her role extended beyond driving; she was a trusted figure who contributed significantly to the lives of countless families.

A woman of faith, Pat was a former member of St. Stephens R.C. Church in Middleport and an active member of Holy Trinity Parish in Medina. Her commitment to her community was also reflected in her role as an Election Inspector for both Niagara and Orleans Counties. Pat was preceded in death by her parents, John and Dorothy (Walters) Reese, her husband, Vincent and sister Audrey Gurski.

She is survived by her sons, James (Alverda “Birdie”) Volkosh of Middleport and John (Cynthia) Volkosh of Hamburg, NY. Her grandchildren, Kelly (Ryan) Halstead, John M. Volkosh, Julie (Scott) Drezek, and Daniel (Heather) Volkosh, carry forward her legacy, as do her treasured great-grandchildren, Emma, Blake, Claire, Leo, Owen, Olivia, Noah, Louise, and Gabriel. Pat will also be fondly remembered by her nephews; Guy Gurski and family and Patrick McCauley and his family.

Pat’s Mass of Christian Burial will be held SATURDAY APRIL 11, 2026 in Holy Trinity Parish-St. Mary’s Church, 211 Eagle Street, Medina, beginning at 11am. She will be laid to rest in St. Stephen’s Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

A heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff of the North Wing and 2nd Floor at Medina Memorial Hospital.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Pat’s memory may be made to the Middleport Fire Department or Middleport Food Pantry, organizations she held close to her heart.

Pat’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Bates, Wallace & Heath Funeral Home of Middleport.

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

MEDINA – Christopher M. Clark II, 26, of Medina, NY, passed away on Friday, March 27, 2026. He was born in Erie on October 31, 1999, a son of Shauna Gardner.

He was a graduate of Lyndonville High School, Class of 2018. He enjoyed wrestling and playing football in High School.

Chris served in the National Guard. He worked as a car salesman.

He enjoyed golfing, painting, playing football, and kayaking.

He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Daniel Gardner and his great-grandma, Shirley Discher.

In addition to his mother, he is survived by his brother, Evan Smith of Erie; his grandmother, Valerie Gardner; his stepfather, Jon DiBello; and many cousins, aunts, and uncles.

Friends and family may call at the Russell C. Schmidt and Son Funeral Home, Inc., 5000 Wattsburg Rd., Erie, Pa 16504 on Friday, April 10 from 11 am until the time of funeral service there at 2 pm. Burial will follow in Wintergreen Gorge Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the funeral home to help defray funeral expenses.

Please visit SchmidtFuneralHomeErie.com to leave a condolence on Chris’ Tribute Page.

MEDINA – Iris L. Wolley, 80, of Medina, NY, passed away peacefully on the morning of March 28, 2026 at the Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital in the company of family.

Iris was born on November 4, 1945 in Sioux City, Iowa to Ross and Idabelle (Francis) Henderson. Growing up in California, she exercised her passion for art at San Jose State University with a degree in printmaking and later on enjoyed a career in Library Science/Cataloguing after receiving a master’s degree from the University of Buffalo. Iris always continued her passion for art, studying botanical illustration in her free time while working in cataloguing at Columbia University in New York City.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her sister, Karen Hageman.

Iris is survived by her son, Jason Wolley; brother-in-law, Darryl Hageman; nephew, Ross Hageman; and her grandnieces, Jaina and Julianna Hageman; as well as wonderful cousins and friends in Medina, Buffalo, Ithaca, New York City and out West.

Not one for being the center of public attention, Iris will be mourned by the family privately. A memorial stone will be placed alongside her sister, Karen’s memorial stone in the garden at Niagara Hospice. If you would like to honor Iris’s life, the best way would be to treat a stranger kindly today and put a smile on their face as she would always try to do with everyone she encountered.

Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share a special memory and condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

Jeffrey A. Bale, age 63, went to be with our Lord on Monday, March 30, 2026 and is finally at peace after a hard-fought battle with cancer.

He was the son of the late Raymond J. Bale and Beatrice L. (Reigle) Bale.

Jeff graduated Summa Cum Laude from GCC with a degree in computer science. He went on to hold many jobs until joining his dad in the family business, Bale Construction, which he ran and operated until the present. He was a hard worker and excelled as a dirt farmer, stone deliverer and house builder. Jeff was an expert with foundation construction, septic systems, and landscaping. He also ran a successful snowplowing business for many area businesses and residents.

Jeff is best known for his expertise in problem solving, repairing and running any piece of equipment. This was his passion. Jeff was a perfectionist in all his endeavors and was well known for his work ethic and fairness in business. He enjoyed shooting the breeze with his regular customers and friends.

Jeff is survived by his best friend and girlfriend, his finally found true love, Ann Sentiff; her children, Kyle Sentiff and Renae Sentiff; brother, William “Pudgie” (Debbie Fuller) Bale; sister, Dawn (Gary) Marciszewski; nephews, Andrew Bale, Christian Bale and Scott Marciszewski; nieces, Andrea and Kristin Marciszewski; very close lifelong friends, Wayne Montalvo, Randy Hurt and Davey Jones; and his trusty co-pilot, Bud.

Jeff was predeceased by his parents and two brothers, John Bale and Lawrence Bale.

Jeff found the most enjoyment in spending time outside working, having all night fires with his girl, family, puppies and friends while listening to good tunes, laughing, drinking beer and watching the universe in all its glory. The world is definitely at a loss with Jeff no longer in it.

There will be no calling hours or funeral, per Jeff’s wishes. A private memorial campfire for his closest will be held at a future date. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina.

Donations in Jeff’s memory may be made to Hospice of Orleans at www.hospiceoforleans.org. A special thank you to hospice’s home care team and for all the prayers and concerns from Jeff’s family, friends and clients.

Please share a special memory and condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

ALBION – Betty J. Pescara, age 92, of Albion, passed away surrounded by her family on March 30, 2026 at UMMC in Batavia. Born September 27, 1933 in Albion, she was the daughter of the late Olin and Margaret (Frasier) Gibbs Sr.

Betty lived in the Albion area her whole life and was lovingly known by many in the community as Mom. Family was the most important thing to her and she will be remembered for being a motherly figure to all who knew her. Betty took pride in being the matriarch of her family and her presence will forever be missed.

In addition to her parents, Betty was predeceased by her husband, Albert Pescara in 2017; son, Gary Pescara in 1996; son, Joseph Pescara in 2019; brothers, Olin Gibbs Jr. and Robert Gibbs; and sister Arlene Lonnen.

She is survived by her children, Brenda (late Russell) Witt, Linda (Pescara) Muscarella and Scott Pescara; grandchildren, Mindy (Dave) Mosier, Jennifer (Tim) Comstock, Todd Witt, Ashley (Muscarella) Hougle, Joseph Muscarella, Devin (Anja) Pescara, Breanne Pescara (Kenny McAfee) and Olivia Pescara; several great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, sisters, Dolores Behrend and Rose Welles; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, April 3, 2026 from from 5 to 7 p.m. at Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 21 W. Ave., Albion.

Memorials in Betty’s name can be made to the Orleans County Office for the Aging, 14016 NY-31, Albion, NY 14411.

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

HOLLEY – Alnita “Jean” D’Lallo, age 85, passed away March 26, 2026, at Unity Hospital.  She was born April 12, 1940, in Batavia, a daughter of the late Howard and Helen (Weldon) Smith and had lived in this area all her life.

Jean was a member of the Holley VFW Ladies Auxiliary. She drove bus for Holley Central School and worked as a secretary at Eastman Kodak, retiring after 30 years. She enjoyed going to the casino, puzzle books, reading, playing cards, and watching the Wheel of Fortune.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her partner, Ross Gaylord; 3 sisters and a brother.

She is survived by her children, Linda (the late Ronald ) Foresha Jr, Antonio D’Lallo III, Michael (Anita) D’Lallo; grandchildren, Nicholas Foresha, Gabrielle (Aleks) Foresha-Agostinho, Jeffery (Missy) Foresha, Daniel (Amanda) Foresha, Alexandra D’Lallo and Brianna D’Lallo; great-grandchildren, Ethan Foresha and Kira Agostinho as well as several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, 16650 State Route 31 Holley, Friday April 24th from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. where her memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Burial in Hillside Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the National Kidney Foundation, 1344 University Ave #270, Rochester, NY 14607.

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

HILTON – Nancy L. Guenther, age 86, of Hilton, passed away on March 28, 2026 at Strong Memorial Hospital.

Born September 23, 1939 in Medfield, MA, she was the daughter of the late Charles and Louisa (Culverhouse) White.

Nancy earned her Master Degree in Divinity from Colgate Divinity School, and in 1993 she began her ministering work as an Ordained Minister at the First Congregational Church of Gaines in Albion. In 2005, Nancy was ordained as an Episcopalian Priest at St. Paul’s Church in Holley, and continued her ministry work at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Medina, until her retirement in 2024.

Nancy was an avid reader, and enjoyed jigsaw and crossword puzzles. Nancy knitted hats for children in need. She was a loving and devoted mother and grandmother. Nancy also volunteered at QUEST Elementary School in Hilton, NY.

Nancy is survived by her children, Holly North, Patrick (Susan) Kruchten, Tim (Monica) Guenther and Chris (Maureen) Guenther; grandchildren, William, Colin, Graham, Jennifer and River North, Joshua and Rachel Kruchten; sister, Patricia Rydberg; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Nancy’s funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 2 Jackson St, Holley. Light refreshments will follow the funeral service at the church.

Memorials in Nancy’s name can be made to the Palliative Care Unit at Strong Memorial Hospital, 601 Elmwood Avenue, 1st Floor, Suite C, Rochester, NY 14642.

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

LOCKPORT – Join us as we joyfully celebrate the life of Charlotte Palisano-Maiorana in a heartfelt tribute to Charlotte’s remarkable journey of life on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at the DeSales Catholic School Gymnasium, 6914 Chestnut Ridge Rd, Lockport, NY 14094.

We will gather for a Mass of Celebration at 11 a.m., immediately followed by a joyous reception that will warm the heart.

Let us come together to honor Charlotte’s life, love, and legacy.

Memorial gifts can be made to the Nunzio T. Maiorana Art Center at DeSales Catholic School in Lockport, NY, nurturing the artistic passions that Charlotte cherished. When donating, kindly specify NTM AC in the memo section and address gifts to Kim Knuutila, 6914 Chestnut Ridge Road, Lockport, NY 14094.

LOCKPORT – Kurt H. Lewis, 79, of Lockport, NY, passed away on Friday, March 27, 2026, at the Buffalo Veterans Hospital. He was born on March 14, 1947, in Medina, NY, a son of the late Kenneth and Betty (Olds) Lewis.

He graduated from Medina High School in 1966 and enlisted in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War. On returning home, he was employed as a Maintenance Mechanic with the former Fisher-Price until its closing in May of 1997. Lastly, he retired from Oliver Gear of Buffalo in 2012. Kurt loved anything to do with camping and boating. He was a boating enthusiast and traveled on many waterways around the country. After retirement, Kurt enjoyed wintering in St. Petersburg, Florida.

He is survived by his children, Shelly (Jeremy) Taylor of Coleman, MI, step-daughter, Sharon (Michael) Izzy of Hamburg, NY, and step-son, Douglas (Jamie) Murphy of Portland, Oregon; seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; a brother, Greg (Sue) Lewis of Orlando, FL; several nieces and nephews, and his late partner’s family.

Kurt was predeceased by his long-time partner, Linda Urbach and a by a son, Casey.

Relatives and friends may call on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St., Medina, NY 14103, where a funeral service will be held at 12 noon. Burial will be private for the family, with full military honors.

Being that Kurt had a love of the outdoors, in lieu of flowers, the family asks that you plant a tree in Kurt’s name from the funeral home website, www.bogantuttlefunerals.com.

BARRE – Anne Marie Brooks, 82, died peacefully Thursday, March 26, 2026 at Medina Memorial Hospital.

She was born Aug. 29, 1943, a daughter of the late Edward and Marilyn Pesch. She grew up in the Gates-Chili area and was a graduate of Our Lady of Mercy High School. She worked at various places, including French’s, Eastman-Kodak and later as a home health aide. Most of her life was spent as a homemaker.

Anne loved to read and could often be seen outside her house sitting in a comfortable chair with a book or her Kindle. She loved sunny days, her Ft. Myers Beach friends, houseplants and was a devoted follower of “Days of Our Lives,” a show she watched faithfully for 61 years.

Anne was a devoted grandmother and was known lovingly as the “Best Gummy.”

Survivors include her husband, Clark Brooks; son, Scott (Audrey Reding) DeSmit; daughter, Kelley (Mark) Braley; grandchildren, Dylan (Brooke Campbell) DeSmit, Chad DeSmit, Mitchell (Char Olick) DeSmit, Alex (Racheal Nickerson) DeSmit, Olivia Braley and Jenna DeSmit; brothers Douglas Pesch of Lyndonville and Richard (Heidi) Pesch of Florida; brother-in-law Bryce Short of Missouri; daughter-in-law, Kelly DeSmit of Barre; sisters-in-law, Ruth (Dudley) Chaffee and Linda (Ron) Prince; and nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was predeceased by her brother and best friend, David Pesch.

There are no calling hours or services. A celebration of life will be conducted at a later date. Funeral arrangements were made by Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes Albion NY.

The family would like to express sincere gratitude for the loving nurses and staff at Medina Memorial Hospital and Hospice of Orleans.

Donations in Anne’s name may be made to Hospice of Orleans, 14080 Rt. 31, Albion, NY 14411.

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

WEST BARRE – Roxie L. Nichols, a beloved member of the West Barre community, passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends on March 26, 2026, at the age of 98. Born on December 23, 1927, in West Virginia, she was a daughter of Richmond and Rebecca (Adkins) Stewart.  Roxie lived a life filled with love, dedication, and service.

Roxie was a devoted custodian for the Orleans County Government in Albion, where she worked tirelessly and made many friends. She was also passionate about agriculture, spending her life farming on various farms throughout the area. Her love for canning and cooking was evident, especially during family gatherings, where she would prepare hearty meals for her many children and grandchildren. Roxie’s unwavering devotion and warmth were best exemplified by the loving home she created and sustained, raising a total of 14 wonderful children.

Roxie was predeceased by her loving husband, Ronald Eugene Nichols; her children, Delmus, Frank, Eddie Joe, Jenivee, Sandra, Kathy, and Virginia; and her grandchildren, Delmus, Gary, Ron, Little Ron and Roxanne.

She is survived by her children: Jerry Nichols, Ronnie (Jeanine) Nichols, Johnny Nichols, Andy (Tiffany Fuller) Nichols, Lorena (Billy Brown) Cox, Alice Nichols, Grace (Steven) Jenks, and Cynthia Tanner. Roxie is also survived by several cherished grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and special friends, David (Karen) Shutt and Brenda Griffith.

Family and friends will be received at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, located at 21 West Avenue in Albion, on Monday, March 30th, from 5-8 pm. A funeral service to honor and celebrate Roxie’s life will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday, March 31st, beginning at 11:00 am. Interment will follow in Mt. Albion Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorials be made to Hospice of Orleans, 14080 Route 31, Albion, NY, 14441, in appreciation for the compassionate care and support provided.

 To share a special memory or to offer words of comfort, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com

ALBION –Olin Junior Gibbs, 89, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2026

He was born February 24, 1937, in Albion. New York. On August 25, 1956, was married to his soulmate, Leah Mae Spring just prior to enlisting in the United States Air Force in September of 1956. He served 21 years in Airframe Mechanics before retiring in 1977 as a Senior Master Sargent.

Together they traveled, had many adventures, and raised four children along the way.

In his younger years, Olin, also known as Junior or O.J. enjoyed his family, traveling, hunting, fishing, various crafts and had a knack for fixing all kinds of things.

Olin is survived by his wife Leah Mae Gibbs; children Chris Gibbs (Marlene), Rose Brooke (Mark), Brenda Gibbs, Lisa Gibbs Mattison; four grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; three sisters, and many nieces and nephews.

He will be remembered for kindness, love for his family, a wonderful husband, father,  grandfather and great-grandfather.

His Graveside Service with Full Military Honors will be held Tuesday March 31st at 1:00pm at the WNY National Cemetery, 1254 Indian Falls Rd, Corfu, NY 14036. Arrangements are in the care of the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Albion NY.

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

MEDINA – Edith M. “Edie” Renouf, age 85 of Medina, NY passed away on Wednesday, March 25, 2026 at the Medina Memorial Hospital- North Wing Skilled Nursing Facility.

Born January 13, 1941 in Waukegan, IL, she was the daughter of the late Charles and Ethel (Norris) Burris. Edie graduated from Waukegan High School, Class of 1959. She went on to further her education by obtaining her associate degree from Genesee Community College, and then her Bachelor of Social Work from SUNY Brockport.

Edie had a passion for handcrafting and fixing fabrics and was a lifelong tailor/seamstress and was the owner and operator of Alterations by Edie. She also worked for Kennedy Brothers for many years in that role. Edie worked for the American Cancer Society as well. She was a Girl Scout Leader, starting at the time her daughter Sandra was a Brownie and continued through the years as her daughter grew. She was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church in Medina, where she taught Sunday School. Edie loved to be outdoors and to spend time with her beloved cats. She enjoyed baking for her family during Christmas and other holidays.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her son, John W. Renouf in 1997.

Edie is survived by her daughter, Sandra Renouf (Robert Yasment); grandchildren, Melissa Stornelli (Brian Bruski), Sarah Stornelli and Roger Stornelli Jr. (Rehannon Standish); great-grandchildren, Alana Wolfe, Allyson Bruski, Olivia Bruski, Ella Bruski, Dominick Whiting, Blake Stornelli, Adysyn Stirk and Gianna Stornelli; great-great grandchildren, Eli Mumford, Daniel Brownell and Bowe Brownell; nephew, Greg Waugh (Vicki); niece, Lorie Schroeder (Steve) as well as several other nieces and nephews.

Her graveside committal service will be held on Friday, April 10 at 11:00am at Boxwood Cemetery, Medina. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Edie’s name may be made to the ARC- Camp Rainbow at www.arcglow.org or to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org. To share a special memory of Edie please visit www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

GREECE – Christine M. Licurse, age 96, died March 23, 2026. She was born January 20, 1930 in Oyster Bay, Long Island, New York to Frank (Sr.) and Rose (Ilvento) Licurse.

Christine was a graduate of Albion High School and during her life she enjoyed cooking, attending church, and going to garage sales. Her favorite enjoyment, however, was spending time with her siblings.

Ms. Licurse was predeceased by her siblings: Joseph (Nellie) Licurse, Virginia (Clark) Cheney, Rose (Charles) Zicari and David Licurse Sr. as well as several nieces and nephews.

She is survived by her brother, Frank Licurse Jr.; several nieces, nephews and friend, Stephen Kwiatkowski.

There will be no prior calling hours. Family and friends are invited to attend her funeral service on Friday, March 27th at 12 p.m. at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 21 West Avenue-Albion.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Disabled American Veterans, 860 Dolwick Drive, Erlanger, KY, 41018.

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

MEDINA – William “Bill” G. Tompkins, 87, of Medina passed away on March 23, 2026, at Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital. Born December 24, 1938, in Corning, he was the son of the late Ivan and Marian (Dense) Tompkins.

Bill worked for upwards of 30 years as a Soil Conservationist for USDA lastly in Albion, where he retired in 1987. He was passionate about cars and was particularly fond of the classics. His family lovingly remembers his ability to name the make and model of any car he saw. Bill also had a passion for vegetable gardening and spending time with his beloved dachshund, Cooper.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother, John Tompkins.

Bill is survived by his wife of 65 years, Sandra; children, Teresa Fox, Timothy Tompkins, Tina (Douglas) Ames, Eric (Michelle) Tompkins and Christopher (Debra) Tompkins; brother,

Edwin Tompkins; grandchildren, Corinne (Brian) Kaplan, Nathan (Ashley) Fox, Ryan Ames, Devan (Amelia) Ames, Alyssa (James) Jenks, Kaitlin Tompkins (Jeremy Ribbeck), Austin Tompkins and Riley Tompkins; and 4 great-grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held at the convenience of the family and a date that will be announced later. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina.

Memorials in Bill’s name can be made to the National Kidney Foundation, 1344 University Ave #270, Rochester, NY 14607 or Orleans County Office for the Aging, 14016 NY-31, Albion, NY 14411.

To share a special memory of Bill, please visit www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

BROCKPORT – Deanne L. Herring, 64, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on March 19, 2026.

She was born on March 6, 1962, in Newfane, NY, to William and Marilyn Nevin.

Deanne was a devoted wife, loving mother, and proud grandmother. She is survived by her husband of over 46 years, Donald Herring; her daughters, Jennifer Lathan (Michael) and Stacy Wood (Derek); and her cherished grandchildren, Bryan, Kaelynn, Austin, and Elody, who brought her immense joy.

She is also survived by her sisters, Yvette Nevin and Noreda LeVan; her beloved nephew, David Duffield; and many nieces and nephews.

Deanne spent most of her life working as a cook, a role that perfectly reflected her caring and generous spirit. She found great happiness in preparing meals for others, especially for her family, whom she loved deeply. Her kitchen was a place of warmth, comfort, and togetherness.

She will be remembered for her kindness, her strength, and the love she poured into everything she did. Deanne’s presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Honoring her wishes, there will be no formal services.

ALBION/HAMBURG – Michael G. Downey, age 61, passed away March 16, 2026 at Erie County Medical Center following a long illness. He was born October 1, 1964, in Albion, a son of Everett “Frenchy” and the late Dorothy (Hildreth) Downey.

Michael served in the US Air Force. He was a member of the Hamburg American Legion Post #527 and was a member and past governor of the Hamburg Moose Lodge #992.

In addition to his mother, he was predeceased by his mothers-in-law Ethel Alvut and Cathy Dewey Alvut.

He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Tina; father Frenchy; sister Cindy (Michael) Troy; brother Bill (Anne) Downey; sisters-in-law Mary Dewey, Penny (Sean) Kavanagh, Dawn Dewey, Charlene (Michael) Schicker, Mariah (Dennis) Boyko as well as many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, 21 W. Ave. Albion on Tuesday March 24th from 4 to 6 p.m. Memorials may be made to P.A.W.S., 3371 Gaines Basin Rd. Albion NY 14411.

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

MEDINA – Thomas John Moreland Jr., 83, of Medina, New York, passed away unexpectedly at home on March 13, 2026.

Thomas was born in Lockport, New York, to Patricia (Harry Payne) Slater and Thomas (Betty) Moreland Sr. He spent much of his life in the Lockport and Medina area and was known for his hardworking nature and dedication to those he loved. He retired from Harrison Radiator in Lockport on February 1, 1993 after many years of service.

Thomas enjoyed the simple things in life. He loved playing cards with his friends and spending time with his family, which brought him the greatest joy. He was known for his big heart and for loving his family unconditionally, always making sure those he cared about knew they were loved.

He is survived by his longtime life partner, Kristina Anderson; his children, Darrin (Charity Hupkowitz) Moreland, Wade (Heather Weaver) Moreland, and Ashley (Joseph Luxon) Moreland. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren, Terri Froman, Josh Sanders, Kagney Armer, Heather Moreland, Megan Moreland, Quinn Moreland, Brianna Peterson, Brooke Moreland, Jaden Luxon and Chloe Luxon, as well as many great-grandchildren.

Thomas is also survived by his brothers, Frank Payne of Gasport, New York, and Delaire (Yvonne) Payne of Bell, Florida; and his sisters, Ronnie Johnson and Mary Appolito, both of Lockport, NY. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Kathy Moreland and Andrea Moreland, as well as his daughter-in-law, Debbie Moore, along with several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his sister, Joan Kam; his brothers, Gary Moreland and Stanley Moreland; and his brothers-in-law, Dan Johnson and John Appolito.

Thomas will be remembered most for the love he had for his family and the kindness he showed to those around him. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

“The love he had for his family will remain his greatest legacy.”

Visitation will be held on Saturday (March 28th) from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at New Hope Community Church, located at 203 West Center Street, Medina, New York, where a funeral service will commence at 12 p.m. Burial will follow at Millville Cemetery, located on East Shelby Road, Medina, New York.

The family will be hosting a Celebration of Life following the burial from 2 to 6 p.m. at Junior Wilson’s, located at 3875 Bates Road, 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 Thomas at www.bogantuttlefunerals.com.

MEDINA – Debra Ann Lavigne, age 68, of Medina passed away unexpectedly at home on March 14, 2026.

Born on March 13, 1958, in Albion, she was the daughter of the late Royce and Beverly (Sandle) Caleb, Sr. Debbie grew up on her family’s homestead in Knowlesville and has been a lifelong resident of the area. She graduated from Medina High School, Class of 1977.

Debbie married the love of her life, William P. Lavigne, in January of 1981. The couple purchased Debbie’s family homestead from her parents, where they raised their family. Debbie loved her role as a homemaker and truly made her house a warm and loving home.

Debbie was an avid reader and enjoyed crafting and cross stitching. She was also a devoted Buffalo Sabres fan and taught her husband everything he knows about hockey. Debbie was very enthusiastic about watching Sabres games with Bill, even when he may not have wanted to. She will be remembered by her family as an adoring mother, grandmother and loving mother to many pets throughout the years.

Debbie is survived by her husband of 45 years, Bill Lavigne; Adam Lavigne and his children Abbey and Peter Lavigne; Courtney (Michael) Lavigne-Gilday and their son Miles Gilday; Allison (Christopher) Lavigne-Reichard and their son Kayden Reichard; brothers, Royce “Rusty” (Lanore) Caleb and Terry (Wendy) Caleb; several nieces, nephews and cousins; and her beloved cats, Muffin, Baby Kitty and Calli.

A celebration of Debbie’s life will be held on Saturday, March 28 from 3-7 PM at the Carlton Fire Hall, 1853 Oak Orchard Rd., Albion, 14411. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Memorials in Debbie’s name may be made to the Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center at www.roswellpark.org. To share a special memory of Debbie please visit www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

LOCKPORT – Norma L. Sturtevant, of Lockport, NY entered into rest on Sunday, March 15, 2026.

Born April 23, 1952 in Lockport, she was a daughter of the late Lewis J. and Edith (Webb) Wittcop. Norma graduated from Lockport High School in the Class of 1970. On August 1, 1970 she married the love of her life, Steven Sturtevant. The couple lived in the area all of their lives and raised two children. Norma loved to quilt, crochet and do ceramics. She also enjoyed fishing. She will be lovingly remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by four siblings, Cheryl (Johann) Feuersanger, Terry Wittcop, Elizabeth Seib and Clesson Wright.

Left to cherish her memory are her beloved husband of 55 years, Steven; children, Nichole (David) Rudd and Steven (Karli) Sturtevant II; grandchildren, Hunter (Kali), Dylan, Arnie and Kalynn Sturtevant, Tristan, Adalyn, Bryan (Brittany A.) and Brittany (Peyton) Rudd; great-grandchildren, Easton and Hudson Sturtevant; siblings, Laura (John) Werth, Rodger (Carol) Wittcop, Denise Caton, Roseanne (Joseph) Heitzenrater and Brian (Sara Reed) Wittcop; sister-in-law, Judy Wittcop; several nieces and nephews; and beloved friends, Pat Young, Ceal Fura, Joanne Ritter, Janice Stoll, Rosie (David) Ward and Bonnie (Bob) Stevens.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, March 20 from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Sherrie-Bream Funeral Home, 4521 Main St., Gasport. Inurnment will be in the Hartland Central Cemetery Columbarium at a later date.

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