Obituaries

ALBION – Gary Lee Katsanis, 67, of Albion, New York, passed away on August 2nd at Strong Memorial Hospital after a courageous months-long fight against brain cancer.

Gary was born on September 11, 1958 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to David John Katsanis and Anna Mataloni and was a younger sibling to Paul David Katsanis and Karen Ann Katsanis. They lived in the Rhawnhurst area of Philadelphia before moving to nearby Bucks County in 1963 and then to Pylesville, Maryland in 1970.

Gary graduated North Harford High School in 1976 and then went on to attend Towson State University (now Towson University), graduating in 1980 with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics/Economics. He moved to New York to attend the University of Rochester and earned a Master of Arts in Economics there in 1985.

Gary married his high school sweetheart, Susan Kay Nash, on June 27, 1987. They welcomed their first child, Laura Elizabeth, in 1990. Their second child, Rachel Ann followed in 1993 and their third, Amanda Rose, was welcomed in 1996. He was a master of the dad joke and an avid punster.

The family settled in Rochester then later moved to Albion. Gary first worked for Strong Memorial Hospital doing medical data analysis and later continued this career at Blue Cross – eventually managing a staff that stretched from Buffalo to Utica. He worked mostly with the SAS statistical software and was active in the NESUG (North-East SAS User’s group) for many years. He retired early due to medical issues related to Lyme disease.

He continued being active by getting involved in local politics. Gary was elected to the Village of Albion board from 2014 to 2016 as a trustee, and again from 2018 to 2022. During his second term he was also appointed as Deputy Mayor.

Gary was an avid bicyclist during his twenties and participated in many races that included double centuries (200 mile races). Gary was also an enthusiastic home craftsman tackling projects from complete home renovations to helping his brother to build a deck. He never hesitated to help others with their home repairs and projects. His hobbies included collecting and restoring antique tools and firearms, hunting, woodworking, and target shooting.

Gary is predeceased by his parents, his wife Susan, and his youngest child Amanda.

He is survived by his brother Paul and his wife Susan, son David, and step-daughter Marie; his sister Karen and her husband David; his daughter Laura and her husband Pedro; and his daughter Rachel and her husband Shawn and daughter Katerina.

There will be a celebration of life at St. Mary’s Athletic Club in Albion NY on September 11th at 5 p.m., a celebration of life at Stone Ridge Hollow in Forest Hill MD on September 20th at 10am, and an interment at Highview Memorial Gardens on September 21st at 10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers and cards, the family asks for donations to St. Mary’s Athletic Club at 538 Moore St, Albion, NY 14411, or to PAWS Animal Shelter at 3371 Gaines Basin Rd., Albion, NY 14411 to continue his passion of supporting the community he loved.

OKEECHOBEE, FLORIDA/ALBION, NEW YORK – Esther E. Burnette, age 87, died August 28, 2026 in the Okeechobee Health Care Facility following a brief illness. She was born December 3, 1938 in Albion to Carl and Dorothy (Forder) Pawlaczyk and had lived in this area until 2004 when she moved to Florida with her husband.

Esther was a former member of St. Mary’s Assumption RC Church, the St. Mary’s Athletic Club and the St. Mary’s Archer’s Club.  She was an avid reader and loved to cook and bake.

Mrs. Burnette was predeceased by her husband and Sweetie of 64 years, Ronald as well as her brother Carl Pawlaczyk and sister Bonnie Bilicki.

She is survived by her children: Dorothy Stacey of Albion, Linda Berryman of FL, Julie (Larry) Scott of FL, David (Patty) Burnette of FL, her sisters: Pat (Bob) Avino of Albion, Margie Shelfer of Rochester, Bernadette Brown of FL as well as several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.

There will be no calling hours.

Family and friends are invited to attend her graveside service in Mount Albion Cemetery on Saturday, Sept. 19, beginning at 11 a.m.  In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN, 38105 or the ASPCA, 424 E. 92nd Street, New York, NY, 10128-6804.

Esther’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home of Albion.

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

Norman K. Clack, Jr., 88, of Crystal Drive in Broadway, NC, formerly of Kent, NY, passed away on Monday, August 24, 2026.

Norm was born October 17, 1937, the son of the late Norman and Grace (Waldron) Clack Sr. Norm was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 66 years, Ann; two sisters, Bonnie (Clack) Wheeler and Mary (Clack) Kenyon; and an older brother, John Clack.

Norm is survived by three married sons, Kenneth and Cathy of Broadway, NC, Gary and Sally of Banning, CA, and Timothy and Denise of Northfield, MN; a sister, Francis (Suzy) Willgens , seven grandchildren and sixteen great-grandchildren. Please keep Norm’s family in your thoughts and prayers as they mourn his passing and celebrate his life.

Norm entered the U.S. Navy in 1955. He worked at U.S. Naval Shipyards in San Francisco and Long Beach, CA, retiring with 30 years of service at the age of 55.

A Celebration of Life will be held for family and friends at 2 p.m. Friday, September 18, 2026, at Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery, 8220 Bragg Boulevard, Spring Lake, NC 28390.

Immediately following the Celebration of Life, the family will receive friends and host a reception at Broadway United Methodist Church, 106 Church Street, Broadway, NC 27505. Services entrusted to Adcock Funeral Home and Crematory, Spring Lake, NC.

ALBION – Our beloved father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend, Randy Lee Ruhlman, passed away peacefully at home on August 13, 2026, at the age of 64. Randy was preceded in death by his mother, Freda May Barnard, and his brother, Edward L. Ruhlman.

Left to cherish his memory are his daughter and her husband, Rachael and Chuck Tobin, his grandchildren, Caleb, Aaliah and Charlie of Hilton, New York;  his father, Dan Barnard, of Raleigh, NC; his sisters, Nadine (Kevin) Gallagher of Hilton, NY; Lisa (Larry) Mitchell of Raleigh, NC; and Amy (Kevin) Cifelli of Medina, NY, along with numerous nieces,  nephews, great nieces, great nephews, cousins, and friends whom will remember him fondly.

Randy, a proud veteran of the US Navy, served aboard the USS Blakely. He valued the travel, education, and training he received during his years of service and received many commendations. After having his daughter, he continued his education and maintained his Chief Engineer license while also obtaining numerous professional accreditations. As the Director of Facilities at Hill Haven Nursing Home, Ragu, and Bausch & Lomb, he enjoyed the atmosphere at work, the challenge of troubleshooting and fixing issues, and mentoring others. During his time at Hill Haven, he could even be found building birdhouses for residents. In his retirement, Randy was the proud owner and operator of Fitzgibbons Public House and 39 Problems along the Erie Canal in Orleans County NY.

Randy will be remembered for his loving heart, his generosity, and sense of humor. He was always ready to lend a helping hand to others. We will miss his milkshakes, potato and macaroni salads, meatballs with Ragu, dance moves, and laughter. His memory will live on in the stories we share and the cookies baked in his honor.

A celebration to honor Randy’s life will be held on September 11, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Thomas E. Burger Funeral Home, Inc., located at 735 East Avenue, Hilton, NY 14468.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made online to Volunteers of America in Randy’s memory

HOLLEY – Patrick A. Ornt, age 36, passed away unexpectedly on August 23, 2026. He was born December 6, 1989 in Rochester to Alfred M. Ornt Jr. and Lorraine Simons.

Pat was predeceased by his father, his paternal grandparents Alfred and Shirley Ornt and maternal grandmother Marilyn Sailer.

Patrick loved a challenge and wrenching on motors and had a passion for motorsports. He loved dirt bikes, motorcycles, and 4-wheelers. He was a smart, strong, loving, and caring person to all that he knew. He loved his family and friends. He always had a smile on his face and was the life of the party.

Patrick is survived by his girlfriend Sierra Kuhn and their son Malachi, mother Lorraine Simons, siblings Jessica (Carl Engert), Nicholas (Jacquelyn), Stacy (Corey Brown), Todd (Gina Trotter), Matthew, Shawna, many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins that loved him, especially his beloved dog Bella Rose, and his friends in the “Fancher crew”.

Pat’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 16650 State Route 31 Holley, NY 14470 on Tuesday, September 1st from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. His celebration of life service will be held at the funeral home on Wednesday, September 2nd at 11 a.m. Interment will follow in Maple Grove Cemetery in Churchville.

Family and friends are invited to a luncheon at Red Fedele’s Brook House, 920 Elmridge Center Dr, Rochester, NY 14626 after the services for Pat.

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

BANGOR, ME – Marilynn Ann (Wais) Dodson, 68, died on August 23, 2026, in Bangor, Maine. She was born on September 19, 1957, in Brockport, NY, to Dave and Margaret Wais.

Marilynn was predeceased by her parents, her husband, Philip G. Dodson, and her brother, Bill. She is sadly missed by her sister, Barbara of Maine; brother, Al of Brockport; grandnieces, Tessa Roscoe (Robin George) of Virginia, Stacy and Vanessa Wais; great-grandniece, Kira Seretto of Holley, NY; and her little dog of 15 years, Chubb. She will rest alongside her husband at Garland Cemetery, Clarkson, NY. There will be no services.

Arrangements provided by Brookings Smith, Bangor, Maine.

LYNDONVILLE – Gary L. Wakefield, age 60, of Lyndonville, NY, passed away on Monday, August 24, 2026, at the Medina Memorial Hospital, where he received excellent care.

Gary was born on November 15th, 1965, in Medina, NY, to the late Milford and Shirley (Helsdon) Wakefield, where he was the fifth of the boys.

Gary grew up in Lyndonville and graduated in the class of 1983. After high school, he worked briefly at the Lyndonville Canning Company. From there, he worked at Multifoods in Lockport, where he worked primarily as a machine operator for 15 years. He ended his career working in the Lyndonville School District as a Custodian. He found fulfillment in giving back to the community, building meaningful lifelong relationships with students and teachers alike. He always found pride in giving 110% effort to provide the best environment for the kids. His legacy is showcased in his stained-glass artwork, which is on display in the high school’s main lobby.

When Gary wasn’t working, he had many hobbies, including woodworking, stained glass, antiquing, and candy making. He also had a love for collecting anything old, such as quilts, Fenton lamps, furniture, and his most prized possession, a 1931 Ford Street Rod, named “Sassy”.

Gary is survived by his wife of 38 years, Sandra (Harris) Wakefield; his stepson, Eric (Shelly) Harling; his grandchildren, Alex Harling and Jessica (David) Lauer; his favorite cousins, Lori Draper and Thomas (Connie) Harris. He is also survived by his brother, Kent (Juli) Wakefield; his sister-in-law, Wanda (Jeff) Wakefield; his aunt, Linda Helsdon; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He leaves behind his devoted buddy, a Yorkie Terrier “Fred”. He will be remembered by many dear friends.

Besides his parents, Gary is predeceased by his siblings, Bruce, Greg and Jeff Wakefield.

As per Gary’s wishes, there are no calling hours. A private service will be held at the convenience of the family.

Memorials may be made in Gary’s name to the PAWS Animal Shelter, 3371 Gaines Basin Rd, Albion, NY 14411 or to the Band or Sports Boosters at the Lyndonville High School, 25 Housel Ave. Lyndonville, NY 14098.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 112 N. Main St Lyndonville, NY 14098.

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

KENT – John J. Buckland, age 82, passed away August 21, 2026, at Strong Memorial Hospital after a brief illness. He was born January 5, 1944 in Albion to the late Jay and Velma (Stafford) Buckland.

John was a founding member of COVA and also a 50-year member of the Carlton Fire Co. He enjoyed spending time outdoors and farming.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his son-in-law, Andrew Pecorella; brother, James Buckland; and brother-in-law, Richard Jewsberry.

John is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Mary Ann Buckland; children, John Buckland, Tammy Pecorella and Cathy Buckland; grandchildren, William and Sara Pecorella; siblings, Mary Jewsberry and Robert (Betty) Buckland; brothers and sisters-in-law, Leona Quackenbush, George (Cindy) Lonnen, Rose Stephens, Alice Klatt Miller and Kenny (Linda) Lonnen; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

John’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 21 West Ave. Albion, NY 14411 on Wednesday, August 26th from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. where his funeral service will immediately follow at 1 p.m. Interment will be held in Kent Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in John’s name may be made to Hospice of Orleans, 14080 Route 31 Albion, NY 14411 or Palliative Care Program at the UR Medicine/Strong Memorial Hospital, 601 Elmwood Ave. Rochester, NY 14642.

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

HOLLEY – Daniel Andrew Kernan, age 60, passed away unexpectedly on August 20, 2026. Dan was born February 11, 1966, in Aberdeen, Washington, a son of the late Keith Eugene and Jean Elizabeth Kernan and was the middle child of 9.

Dan worked a long (25+) year career at Tops Supermarket in Albion and Hamlin. Dan was a writer, an artist, and a lot of wonderful things to a lot of people. He loved spending time with family the most, and never missed a family gathering.

He will be sorely missed by his siblings Carole (Jeff), Lee Anne (Jamie), Bill, Sharon (Matt), Kathy (Steve), Reuben, Nathan (Rachel), sister-in-law Peggy (Paul) and countless adoring nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother Keith R. “Kib.”

Dan will always be remembered for his wit, creativity, love of family, work ethic, caring nature, and kindness.

His Celebration of Life Service will be held Friday September 11th at 4 p.m. at the Harvest Christian Fellowship, 560 East Ave., Albion NY 14411 with a meal to follow. Burial will be in Mt. Albion Cemetery privately at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that you hug a loved one, extend a hand to a person in need, and don’t pass on the chance to tell someone you love them.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Albion. To share a memory of Dan, visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Christine Sarah Bates (Daly), a beloved mother and sister, passed away peacefully on August 2nd, leaving behind a legacy of strength, love, and resilience.

She is survived by her sons, Marcus Bates (Dawn Williams) and Michael Bates (Evelyn Ruiz); her brothers, Harold Daly and George Daly; and her sister, Theresa Bringham.

Christine will be remembered as a fighter, a mother, and a sister who will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Please join us for a Celebration of Life at the Charles Maier Lodge on Sunday, August 23rd, from 3 to 6 p.m. Charles Maier Lodge is located at 2806 Roosevelt Hwy, Hamlin, NY 14464. Refreshments will be provided.

SHELBY – Kenneth J. Caleb, 95, of Shelby, NY, passed away on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at the Medina Memorial Hospital. Born on April 4, 1931, in Shelby, NY, he was the son of the late Edwin and Corrine (Reed) Caleb.

Kenneth grew up on the family farm, working in the Shelby muck. In 1955, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, working as a Roads & Grounds Specialist, building runways and airfields.

Just before entering the Service, he married the former Marilyn Pratt, and together, they raised three children.After returning home, Kenneth worked for the Town of Shelby Highway Department and later for Keeler Construction Company for over 30 years, retiring in 1995. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping.

He is survived by his children, Candy (Edwin) Koch, Wade (Bonnie) Caleb and Shorty Caleb. Also surviving are his grandchildren, Heather Koch Banker, Kris (Mary Beth) Koch, Brian (Holly) Koch, Noah, Dustin, and Markie Caleb; six great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Besides his wife Marilyn, Kenneth is predeceased by eleven siblings.

Per Kenneth’s wishes, there are no calling hours, and a private service will be held at the convenience of the family, with full military honors.

Memorials may be made in Kenneth’s name to the Orleans Joint Veterans Council, 13996 Rt. 31, Albion, NY 14411, or to the Shelby Volunteer Fire Company, P.O. Box#1, 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 Kenneth at www.bogantuttlefunerals.com.

John W. Ryan, a well-known local music industry business man, died August 17, 2026 at Elderwood of Williamsville.  He was 85.

Born on April 20, 1941 to the late Frederic and Josephine Ryan. He lived his entire life in the Lockport area. He was a graduate of DeSales High School and St. John Fisher College. While serving in the U.S. Air Force John was a member of the Air Force Drum & Bugle Corp and later served with the Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Service in Europe and the Far East.

Mr. Ryan spent his adult life involved with music. He was the former owner of Barone’s Music House and was associated with Central Music Supply and most recently J.W. Ryan Music. He was a member and instructor for several marching organizations including the Albion Grenadiers Drum Corp, the Hamburg Kingsmen Drum Corp, Phase 2 Drum Corp and the Guelph Ontario Royalaires Drum Corp.

His primary focus, however, was always the Medina High School Marching Band program. He served for almost 30 years with the legendary Directors Joseph McKain and Jim Steele. During that period of time, he saw the Marching Band take several NY State and National Championships. While working as the drill instructor for the band, his main responsibility was the Color Guard and particularly the Winter Guard program.

As the Staff Coordinator and Guard Director, the Winter Guard rose to be one of the highest ranked in the U.S. John often spoke of the gratification that he felt when members of the Color Guard would return several years after graduation and express how being in the program had built their self-confidence and helped them to be a success. One of his former students recently said “I will never forget John’s Rule Number One ‘Never say I can’t do that’ – Remembering rule 1 helped me through many difficult times after I graduated.”

During this period, he served on the Executive Board of several Winter Guard organizations and in 2005 was named to the North East Circuit Hall of Fame. For many years John was a member of Lake Plains Players community theatre group and a charter member of the TNSC – a social organization that was dedicated to raising funds for local fire companies.

John is survived by his sister, Joanne (Dave) Crimi; his brothers, James (Cheryl) Ryan, Jeffrey (Denise) Ryan, and the late Robert (Jerry) Ryan; and several nephews and nieces.  He was especially grateful for the friendship of Ann, Katelyn and Marc. He had many close friends in the Medina community as well as the numerous instrumental music teachers at the 25 schools that he visited as part of the music business.

Private services will be held at the convenience of the family.

Sunrise April 7, 1956

Sunset July 31, 2026

Taalibah Adrienne Amatul-Haqq was born Adrienne Spivey on April 7, 1956, in Brooklyn, NY, to her beloved parents, the late Mildred (Galloway) and Leroy Spivey. She was the eldest of five children, and from the very beginning, carried herself with strength and confidence.

She grew up in the projects of Brooklyn, where she learned street smarts at a young age. After an incident at school, her father taught her how to box, and the next time she was picked on, she showed them exactly who was boss. That fire never left her.

Taalibah graduated from Franklin D. Roosevelt High School in 1974 and went on to Boston College, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in speech arts in 1978, with a concentration in television and radio broadcasting. She threw herself into campus life, from the Fulton Debate Society to intramural basketball and volleyball, and served on the committee of the Black Talent Program. She also worked in the genetics department, doing dissections and microscopic analysis, an experience that sparked a lifelong fascination with medicine and later led her to self-study naturopathic healing.

It was in Boston that she met and married Yusuf Paul Rousseff. After a season in Colorado and then Texas, the two finally put down roots in Waterport, NY, where they welcomed three daughters: Khaleeyah, Hajara, and Haleema. Even while raising her girls, Taalibah never stopped learning, immersing herself in the study of holistic healing, herbology, nutrition, and human physiology, always searching for ways to help the body heal itself.

In 1984, she and Yusuf opened Wildflower Natural Foods, and it became so much more than a store, it became her life’s calling. For over 40 years, she poured her heart into healing her community, offering comfort and remedies that Western medicine often couldn’t provide. Her customers didn’t just shop; they loved her, and they felt it anytime she wasn’t behind the counter. That same warmth spilled out beyond her store’s walls: she cooked homemade meals for the unhoused, gave generously, and showed up again and again for anyone in need.

Her faith was the steady heartbeat of her life. A devout Muslim, Taalibah held tightly to her convictions and never stopped growing in her understanding of Islam. Even in her final days, she was still taking Arabic and Quran classes online, learning from teachers around the world. She was equally devoted to passing that knowledge on, spending countless hours volunteering at the Islamic school and mentoring the younger generation.

Taalibah was also wonderfully, stubbornly self-sufficient, a true “jill of all trades.” Carpenter, plumber, electrician: if something needed fixing, she rolled up her sleeves and did it herself, always with remarkable precision and care.

Her garden was another one of her great loves. She had an incredible green thumb and found deep joy in tending to her fruit trees, her vegetables and herbs, her blueberries, blackberries, figs, and many more, along with her flowers and rose bushes. She lovingly called her home the “house of plenty” and gave her land its own name: “Taalibah’s Orchard.”

As a loving grandmother, she cherished every moment spent playing games, cooking over the fire, making sorbet, and going on her famous movie dates with her grandchildren. True to her spirit as a lifelong learner, she loved to travel. She was blessed to travel to Saudi Arabia to complete her Umrah pilgrimage, a journey that held deep meaning for her.

Taalibah was predeceased by her brother, Leroy Cort and her late husband, Khalid Abdus Salaam. She leaves behind a family and community who adored her: her three daughters, Khaleeyah Yusuf Hudson (Derek), Hajara Yusuf (Jackie), and Haleema Yusuf (Brian); her seven grandchildren, Amir, Omari, Ajani, Raia, Arianna, Miles and Ivontae; her sisters, Crystal, Dawn, Nicole, and Shawanna; her nieces and nephews, Ian, Iyesha, Kerri-lyn, Shartinique, Kayla, and Quincy; and countless other relatives, dear neighbors, an extensive faith community, loyal store patrons, and friends, all who were lucky enough to know her.

With gratitude, the family of Taalibah extend their heartfelt thanks for your love, prayers, and support during this time.

Taalibah was laid to rest in the Jannatul Baqi Cemetery, S. Gravel Rd., Shelby Center.

SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT: There will be a memorial service on Saturday, Sept. 12 at 3 p.m. at the Bent’s Opera House, 444 Main St., Medina. A reception with hors d’oeuvres will follow.

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

ALBION – Evana R. Daniels, age 82, died unexpectedly in her home August 17, 2026. She was born January 9, 1944 in Albion to Samuel and Frances (Manzella) Lupo and was a life-long resident of this area. Evana graduated from Albion High School Class of 1961.

Faith was always at the center of her life.  She was a former member of both St. Mary’s Assumption and St. Joseph’s R.C. Church in Albion where she volunteered in numerous ways including being a eucharistic minister, a religious education teacher, a member of the folk group, a member of the Ladies of Charity and she helped to decorate the church for holidays.  Most recently, Evana was a member of The Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Brockport.

She owned and operated Country Garden Bridal Florist and then was the former Development and Education Director for Hospice of Orleans. Following her work in that position, she continued to volunteer many hours for Hospice. Evana loved to cook, bake and garden. She loved her grandchildren and they adored her. She hosted countless family dinners and enjoyed/loved entertaining family and friends for special occasions and for just getting together. She always made sure there was never a shortage of food or drink at her gatherings.

She is survived by her husband of 64 years, Francis “Butch” Daniels; her children, Marc (Carolyn) Daniels of Webster, Michael (Jennifer) Daniels of TX, Mary (Garrett) Knaak of Albion, and Elizabeth (Kevin) Pilon of Clarendon; her grandchildren, Adam, Ella, Sarah, Maya, Brody, and Bailey; and her brother, Tom Lupo of Lockport.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 21 West Avenue-Albion, on Monday Aug. 24 from 4 to 7 p.m. Family and friends are invited to attend her Mass of Christian Burial in The Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, 152 Main Street-Brockport on Tuesday Aug. 25 beginning at 11 a.m. Inurnment will follow in Mt. Albion Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN, 38105.

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

HOLLEY – Norman S. Knight, age 88, passed away August 18, 2026 at the Villages of Orleans. He was born December 21, 1937 in Buffalo, NY to the late Joshia and May (Chago) Knight.

Norman owned and operated Knight Tire & Auto in Brockport for over 20 years. He also served on the Holley CSD School Board for many years and was a past member of the Brockport Rotary Club.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his daughter Amy Knight, siblings Bruce, Wayne, Rodney and June.

Norman is survived by his loving and devoted wife Betty, children Todd (Mary) Knight, Edward (Sherry) Tipton, Stephen (Gail) Tipton, several grandchildren, great-grandchildren as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A private graveside service will be held at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Albion, NY.

Norman’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 16650 State Route 31, Holley, NY.

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

ALBION – Debbie A. Smith, age 64, passed away unexpectedly August 15, 2026, at Strong Memorial Hospital following a short illness. She was born April 1, 1962, in Rochester, a daughter of Patricia A. (Senyszyn) and the late John F. Smith.

Debbie was a member of Holy Family Parish. She enjoyed arts and crafts, doing stain glass work and riding her motorcycle.

In addition to her mother Pat, she is survived by her sons Don Vlack, Stephen Vlack; grandson Ted Vlack; brothers Kenneth (Judy) Smith and Robert (Pam) Smith.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, 21 W. Ave. Albion, on Tuesday August 25th from 4 to 7 p.m. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday at 10 a.m. at Holy Family Parish, 106 S. Main St. Albion NY. Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to P.A.W.S. 3371 Gaines Basin Rd. Albion NY 14411, a Place to Bark, P.O. Box 649, Portland TN 37148 or Hope for Paws, 3940 Laurel Canyon Blvd #140 Studio City, CA 91604.

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

RIDGEWAY – Patricia A. “Pat” Erway, 82, of Ridgeway, NY, went to be with the Lord on Friday, August 14, 2026 at the Medina Memorial Hospital.

Born on November 2, 1943, in Brockport, NY, she was the daughter of the late Chester and Bernice (Downey) DeLano.

Pat graduated from Hilton High School in 1960. She met the love of her life at a show at the New Diana Theatre in Medina when she was 13, and he was 15. On June 23, 1962, she married her love, David N. Erway, and together raised three children. Pat drove a school bus for over 20 years and, for the last 35, was an Associate Broker for Early Sunrise Realty in Holley, NY. Pat was known for her love of cooking and baking, especially for family get-togethers around the holidays, where she made pies and bread.

Pat is survived by her husband of 64 years, David Erway, her children, John (Sandy) Erway of Albion, NY; Mark (Sarah) Erway of Medina, NY; and Amy Jo Erway of Ridgeway, NY., her grandchildren, David (Carrie) Erway, Danielle (Gary) Ettinger, Nicholas Erway, and Micaela (Robert) Geiger; also her great-grandchildren, Blake, Landon, Ethan, Beau, Colt, Archie, and Lucas. Also surviving are her siblings, Chester DeLano Jr. of Moore Haven, FL, and Dottie Leusch of Rochester, NY; a nephew, Steve (Michele) DeLano of Hilton, NY; other nieces and nephews, whom she loved dearly; and her furry companion, Penny.

Relatives and friends may call on Thursday, August 27, 2026, from 6 PM-8 PM at the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St., Medina, NY 14103. Per Pat’s wishes, a private service will be held at the family’s convenience.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Pat’s name to the Hospice of Orleans, 14080 NY-31, Albion, NY 14411.

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

MEDINA – Rose B. Tabor, 74, of Medina, NY, entered into rest after a long illness on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at the Hildebrandt Hospice, Rochester, NY, with her loving family at her side.

Born on June 27, 1952, in Hampton, South Carolina, she was the daughter of the late Sam and Carrie (Riley) Malone.

In 1968, Rose moved to the Medina area and worked for Fisher-Price; after it closed, she returned to school to earn her Licensed Practical Nursing Degree. Rose worked at area nursing homes and retired from the Villages of Orleans in 2014. In her spare time, Rose enjoyed playing bingo and going to the casino.

Rose is survived by her four children, Eloise (Calvin) McPherson of South Carolina; Stephanie Tabor of Medina; Jessie (Meghan) Tabor III of Medina, and Sherrie Dawson of Buffalo. Also surviving are eight grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and a brother, Marvin Malne of California.

Relatives and friends may call at the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St. Medina, NY 14103, on Tuesday, August 18, 2026 from 4 to 7 p.m. A private service will be held at the family’s convenience.

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

ALBION – Pasquale James “PJ” Benedetti passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 2 at 5:30 PM at the age of 90. He spent his final five weeks at the Sunset House hospice home in Irondequoit, New York, surrounded by family and friends with his loving wife, Sandy, by his side.

Born on February 25, 1936, PJ was the son of Italian immigrants Mario and Mary (Galline) Benedetti. He grew up in Oakfield, New York, before moving to Buffalo, where he graduated from Kensington High School. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in social work.

PJ dedicated 25 years of his life as a social worker and supervisor for the New York State Division for Youth group homes in Rochester. He possessed a true gift for connecting with troubled youth and worked tirelessly to secure safe placement for the adjudicated youth. While building his career, PJ also raised his four children as a single father.

An avid outdoorsman, PJ spent his younger years hunting, fishing, and stewarding his children through athletics, camping, and outdoor skills. Following an early retirement in 1991, he immediately set off on a solo cross-country bicycle journey from Alberta to Nova Scotia in a single summer.

Around this time, PJ met the love of his life, Sandy Sennett. The remaining chapters of his life were spent holding the hand of his “Cutie” Sandy, who always greeted him with, “Hey handsome!!!” Together, they shared a love for nature, exploring state and national parks, gardening, and volunteering. Deeply connected to his Italian roots, PJ was an accomplished cook, baker, and canner. He took traditional recipes seriously, picking seasonal berries with his family to make jam, while passing down recipes and traditions, woodworking, and carpentry skills to the next generations.

PJ turned his admiration for social change into action. Deeply influenced by a graduate mentor who led global humanitarian efforts, PJ dedicated his life to community service. He drove immigrants to Buffalo for legal hearings, taught English, and lobbied for labor rights and farmworker protections. He and Sandy volunteered for Meals on Wheels and PJ volunteered for Literacy Volunteers—where he formed lifelong friendships. He led a prolonged effort to support the budding Unitarian Universalist Church in Brockport.

He was also committed to personal growth and was a founding member of “The Good Guys,” He was also deeply proud of his sober lifestyle, where he “walked the walk” and inspired many.

PJ is survived by his wife Sandy Benedetti and beloved children: Jim (Carina) Benedetti, Maria (Bill) Dewhirst, Kathleen Benedetti-Fisher, and Marble (Cindy) Spikes; 10 grandchildren: Jonny (Leslie) Dewhirst, Paul (Nadia) Dewhirst, Rachel (Matt) Pagani, Jimena (Joe) Freda, Dominique (Joey) Nesbitt, Michael Spikes, Kellie Benedetti, Laura (Ken) Peare, Joseph (Susan) Benedetti, and Chrissie (Erik) Belfiore; and 14 great-grandchildren: Isabel, Summer, Madeleine, Hazel, Maya, Andre, Chance, Marrin, Elliott, Griffin, Calvin, Charlie, Arlo, and Gianna; his Aunt Julie Drake.

He was predeceased by his sister, Dr. Clara Benedetti, and his parents.

Calling hours will be held on Monday, August 17th from 3 to 7 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home (2636 Ridgeway Avenue Rochester, NY). The inurnment will take place on Tuesday, August 18th from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Mt. Albion Cemetery ( Telegraph Rd, Albion, NY). A celebration of PJ’s vibrant life will follow the inurnment from 3-7 p.m. in the Greece Canal Park at the Rotary Lodge (241 Elmgrove Road Greece, NY).

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Rural Migrant Ministries, the Worker Justice Center of NY, or the Sunset House Comfort Care Home. PJ was truly a man of Forza e coraggio—strength and courage—and his legacy of goodness will be sorely missed.

ALBION – December 19, 1929 to August 13, 2026

Margaret Joy passed away peacefully at age 96. She was the daughter of the late Salvatore (Sam) and Mary Vella.

Margaret worked for many years as a laboratory technologist and laboratory manager at the Arnold Gregory Memorial Hospital and later at Medina Memorial Hospital where she retired at age 72.

Margaret was a very active member at Holy Family Parish, St. Joseph’s Church where she was involved with Ladies of Charity and Catholic Daughters.

In addition to her parents, Margaret is predeceased by her loving husband, John Joy; daughter, Mary Joy; sister, Geraldine (William) Rudes and many other relatives.

Margaret is survived by her children, Phyllis (Kurt) Theodorakos, Janice (Mark) Morano, and Sally (Brian – deceased) Baker; grandchildren, Christopher Theodorakos, John Paul (Aline) Theodorakos, Julianne Morano, Theresa Morano, Sarah (Michael) Bagnick, Melanie (Matthew) Zmuda; and great-grandchildren, Lincoln Bagnick, Vincent Bagnick, Aria Zmuda and Lyla Zmuda.

No calling hours will be observed. There will be a remembrance mass for Margaret on Saturday, August 29, 2026 at 9:30 a.m. at Holy Family Parish, West Park Street, Albion, NY followed by a Christian burial at St. Joseph Cemetery, East Avenue, Albion. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Holy Family Parish 106 S. Main St. Albion, NY 14411 or Hospice of Buffalo P.O Box 590, Buffalo, NY 14240.

Margaret’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 21 West Ave. Albion, NY.

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