Obituaries

Posted December 01 2020

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Posted March 18 2024
Dr. Herbert G. “Herb” Koenig

MIDDLEPORT – Dr. Herbert G. “Herb” Koenig, 93, went to be with the Lord on March 16, 2024 at the Niagara Hospice House in Lockport.  Born July 8, 1930, in Buffalo, Herb was the third of three children born to Leonard (Leo) M. Koenig and Edna (Pawlitz) Koenig.  

After graduating from Buffalo Teachers College, Herb earned his M.A. and Doctorate in education, and spent his 30-year teaching career inspiring the students at Royalton Hartland Middle School.

Herb was preceded in death by his brother Raymond (Jean) Koenig, sister Ruth (Arthur) Pelzer, and first wife Jean (Newman) Koenig.  His joyous legacy will be carried on by his second wife Virginia Laube Koenig, nieces Marcia (Brian) Ergort, Lynn (Tiff) Bates, Pam (Gary) Rost, Karen (Joe) Buranich, Sarah Fritton, nephews Bill Feldman, Matthew (Rita) Fritton, Christopher Fritton, step-children Jonathan (Kim) Laube, and Laura (Doug) Finney, and many great-nieces and nephews, as well as countless friends that he saw as his family. 

Herb’s lifelong passions included his faith, education, travel, music, his Middleport community, and of course people.  Herb never met a stranger and couldn’t go anywhere without someone recognizing him.  He always had a welcoming word, and usually a corny joke to go with it. 

From 1953-1957, He served in the U.S. Naval Reserve as a communications officer aboard the aircraft carrier USS Hornet in the Mediterranean and Pacific.  He retired from the navy at the rank of Lieutenant. 

Herb began teaching for Royalton Hartland in 1952, and received an Outstanding Educator of America Award in 1975.  In 1979, he was selected as a Fellow by the Science Teachers Association of New York State, for which he held many offices, including chairman of the Northwestern Zone.  While teaching, Herb authored several science textbooks – an achievement of which he was very proud.  He retired from teaching in 1986.

He was an active member of the Middleport United Methodist Church, where he sang, and occasionally gave the Sunday message.  Music was very important to him, and the Middleport Community Choir held a special place in his heart.  Herb was instrumental in establishing a partnership between the choir and the Lubbecke Brass Ensemble of Germany.  His work laid the foundation for multiple trips and cultural exchanges, as well as international friendships.  He truly believed that music brought people together. 

As a 66-year Mason, Herb was a past District Deputy Grand Master of the Niagara-Orleans Masons, and past Master of Cataract Masonic Lodge 63, Middleport. 

Herb had a zest for life, and the world is a better place because he was in it.  

Calling hours will be held Saturday, Mar. 23, from 1:00-3:00, at the Bates, Wallace,& and Heath Funeral Home in Middleport, with a Masonic memorial service to follow.  In lieu of flowers, contributions in Herb’s name can be made to the Middleport Community Choir, Middleport United Methodist Church, or Niagara Hospice.

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

Posted March 18 2024
Randall S. “Randy” Jurs

ALBION – Randall S. “Randy” Jurs, age 66, passed away unexpectedly on March 16, 2024 at his home. He was born January 8, 1958 in Medina to the late Herbert and Eleanor (Rodas) Jurs.

Randy worked as a mechanic for Treehouse Foods in Medina for many years before he retired. He was a huge Harley-Davidson fan and taught his kids how to ride in their younger years. He also enjoyed going deer hunting and went many times with his son Justin. Being in nature was something that he really loved whenever he was able. Randy was very proud of both of his children and their achievements in their lives. He was an extremely hard worker and seemed to know how to fix anything and everything.

Randy is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Pauline; children, Justin (Amanda) Jurs and Ashley Jurs; grandchildren, Ava, Brooklyn, Liam and Cole; siblings, John (Late Libby) Jurs, Carol (Bob) Ander, Chuck (Althea) Jurs, Ronnie and Greg Jurs, Kristen Bone and Amy Burkhalter; as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Randy’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home on Wednesday March 20th from 4:00-7:00pm. His funeral service will be held Thursday at 11:00am at the funeral home with interment following in Mt. Albion Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in Randy’s name may be made to Eagle Harbor Methodist Church, c/o Michelle Howard, 2364 Lake Rd., Hamlin, NY, 14464. 

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

Posted March 18 2024
Judy A. Egner

MIDDLEPORT/BUFFALO – A devoted teacher and animal lover, Judy A. Egner died on January 16, 2024, at her home in Buffalo, NY, at 84.

Judy taught thousands of middle school children science, social studies, and English for 34 years in the Buffalo Public School system. She was a caring and loving teacher who dedicated her time and energy to ensuring each student received a quality education.

Judy’s gentle disposition with her students carried over to her love of animals, especially her dog, Joey. After teaching, she spent time at home with her animals and growing a beautiful garden with bright and colorful flowers that was the envy of the neighborhood.

Selfless and quiet, Judy was a devoted Catholic. Her life reflected simplicity and the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi, who said, “Do few things but do them well; simple joys are holy.”

Judy was born on January 12, 1940. A Mass of Christian burial will be held on April 19, 2024, at 10 a.m. at St. Stephens Roman Catholic Church, 21 Vernon Avenue, Middleport, NY, 14105.

Posted March 18 2024
BEANS Madore (a.k.a. Jean-Raymond)

BUCKINGHAM, QUEBEC- BEANS Madore (a.k.a. Jean-Raymond) born in Buckingham, Quebec, Canada passed away at his home on February 11th 2024 surrounded by his family. Pre-deceased by his parents Helen Murphy, Raymond Madore and Sister Dianne. He leaves behind his sweet Chickie/Fiancee Holly Moore, sisters/brother Lynda (Raymond), Gaetan (Rollande),  Suzanne (Denis), Monique (Michel) and Helene. Niece Tania, nephews; Frank, Mathieu, Vincent, Sebastien, Guillaume and Claude.  He also leaves behind his American family to only name a few; Dick Menke, Kenneth and Sheila Murphy, John and Charmaine O’Keefe, Bob and Kim Banks. Beans worked for Chuck Full O’ Nuts, Maidstone Coffee, Han-Tek and American Packaging. He then became owner and operator of Cool Beans Services, Madore’s Custom Cycle Garage, Beans Trucking for which he was very successful at. He will be tremendously missed by his family and so many friends. A special Thank You to Doctors McHugh, Gaden and their teams for the good care provided to Beans. A celebration of life will be held at the Sainte Rose-de-Lima church in Gatineau, Quebec, Canada, on Friday May 17 2024 at 11:00am, where he will be laid to rest with his parents and sister. A celebration of life will also be held in Brockport at a later date.

Posted March 18 2024
Veronica (Bonnie) M LaMachia

EAST ROCHESTER- Veronica (Bonnie) M LaMachia, age 93, formerly of East Rochester, entered into eternal rest on March 16, 2024 at home, with the presence of her loving and compassionate granddaughter and caregiver Sarah Hofstra as well as family members. She was born March 29, 1930 the daughter of the late Thomas and Helen E. (Farron) Craig.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Joe LaMachia, her son Jeffrey Hofstra, a sister Helen Cowd, brothers Thomas and James Craig.

She is survived by her sons Donald Hofstra, Ken (Kim) Hofstra, Brian (Michelle) Hofstra and Robert (Holly) Hofstra, several grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins. She is also survived by David Craig, Arizona.

Bonnie enjoyed several years at SUNY Brockport’s Faculty Dining Hall as well as golfing several states with her husband, Joe, family and friends.

A short service will be held at 11:00am, March 23, 2024, at Harloff Funeral Home, 803 South Washington Street, East Rochester, NY 14445. A burial will follow at White Haven Memorial Park, 210 Marsh Road, Pittsford, NY 14534. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of Orleans, 14080 NY-31, Albion NY 14411.

Posted March 17 2024
Patrice Delia Kopitzki

HOLLEY – Patrice Delia Kopitzki, 73, passed away March 17, 2024, at Hildebrant Hospice Care Center. Pat was born December 9, 1950, in Brockport and had lived in Holley for over 38 years.

Pat took great pride in her gardening skills, and you could see her love of gardening on display at Oak Ridge Apartments. Pat loved all animals and was known to care for a hurt bird or frog. She also was a NASCAR fan and loved her cat “Baby Kitty.”

Pat was predeceased by her great-grandson, Chase Myers; and sisters, Deborah and Wendy.

Pat is survived by her husband, Robert; daughters, Jenn Myers and Susie Kopitzki; the love of her life was her grandchildren who referred to her as Mema, Kalena (Brandon) Garbacz, Garrett (Katie) Myers, Haylee Myers and Isla Willemsen; great-grandchildren, Brantley and Maverick Myers.

Pat’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell funeral Home, 16650 State Route 31, Holley, on Tuesday, March 26, from 4 to 6 p.m. only. Interment will be in Hillside Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Verona Street Animal Society at vsas.org.

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

Posted March 16 2024
Robin Whitaker

May 4, 1962 — March 15, 2024

HAMLIN – Robin (Rushton) Whitaker, 61, passed away unexpectedly at home, March 15, 2024. Robin was born May 4, 1962, in Chicago, a daughter of the late Raymond and Joan (Christie) Rushton.

She was a 1980 graduate of Holley High School. Robin was retired, but enjoyed thrifting, buying, and selling antiques, gardening, music, going to concerts and Civil War history. She loved all animals, especially her dogs.

Robin was predeceased by her parents; brother, James Rushton; and mother-in-law, Peggy Whitaker.

Robin is survived by her loving husband of 28 years, Gordy; stepchildren, Jolene (Joe) Faulisi and T.R. Gullo; grandchildren, Reese, Kayden and Winnie; siblings, Vicky Gutheil, Chris (Angie) Rushton, Val (Russell) Olles and Rhonda (Custy Panetta) Rushton; special cousin, David (Kate) Rushton of UK; and canine companion, Dolly.

She is also survived by beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, many friends, and her family at The Carriage Place Crafts & Antiques CO-OP.

Robin’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 16650 State Route 31, Holley, on Monday March 25, from 4 to 7 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Robin’s life at 7. Memorials may be made in memory of Robin to Rescued-Treasures.com.

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

Posted March 16 2024
Jeffrey F. Sidebottom

MIDDLEPORT – Jeffrey F. “Redneck” Sidebottom, 61, of Middleport, NY, entered into rest on Thursday, March 14, 2024 at the Niagara Hospice, Lockport, NY.

Born on February 15, 1963, in Lockport, NY, he was the son of the late Leonard Sidebottom and Doris (Freer) Yingling.

He grew up in Middleport, NY and was a life-long mechanic, working for area garages. He liked spending time with his family and friends and caring for his beloved dog, Midget.

Jeffrey is survived by his four children, Jeffrey Kirk Sidebottom, Michael Sidebottom, Nathan Sidebottom and Ashley; six grandchildren; four siblings, Eric (Ces) Sidebottom, Dennis (Laurie) Sidebottom, Kim Deyarmin and Pamela (Mark) Fearby; and many nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews and the love of his life, Tonia Young.

Besides his parents, Jeffrey is predeceased by his son, Cody; a brother-in-law, Bruce Deyarmin; and his step-father, Robert Yingling.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jeffrey’s name to Niagara Hospice,  4675 Sunset Dr, Lockport, NY 14094

Relatives and friends may attend his Celebration of Life at the Community Fellowship Church Hall, 3151 Johnson Creek Rd, Middleport, NY 14105 on Saturday, March 23, 2024 at 11:00 AM with the Pastor Joseph Szalay III officiating.

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

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

Posted March 15 2024
Nicole Lynn Poquette

HOLLEY – Nicole Lynn Poquette, passed away tragically in a car accident on March 11, 2024 in South Carolina where she was residing. She was born September 14, 1982 to Mary Verhagen Carpenter and George Poquette in Brockport.

Nicole (Nic) was a fearless, strong woman. Among her favorite pastimes were spending time with her daughter (and best friend) and cuddling on the couch with her son and dogs. Nic was amazing at arranging any kind of get-together with anyone who wanted to participate. She could have a party put together with a moment’s notice. She was happiest outside, either on the water or on a beach in the sun or working in her gardens. She also cherished the time she was able to spend in Puerto Rico with her love, Franky and his family.

Nic was a bit wild and outspoken – you never had to wonder what she really thought (often that your food wasn’t seasoned enough) and she was truly gifted at making up a good story. She will always be remembered by her mom for her beautiful smile. Her big brother Mike (Ken) was like a best friend and father-figure and she had a special twin-like bond with her younger sister Priscilla who she enjoyed going for long walks and bike rides with.

Nicole is survived by her children, Mariah Weitz and Kyler Weitz; the love of her life, Francisco (Franky) Garcia, her parents Mary (Russell) Carpenter and George Poquette; siblings Kenneth (Beth) Verhagen, Daniel (Carolyn) Benedict, Michelle (Troy) Kingdollar, Priscilla (Michael) Church and Daniel (Emily) Carpenter, several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles & cousins.

Nicole was an amazing spirit who made an impact on everyone she met and will be missed by all who knew her.

Nicole’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes 16650 State Route 31, Holley on Thursday March 21, from 4:00-6:00, followed by her Memorial Service at 6:00. Immediately following the service, there will be a celebration of Nicole at the VFW in Holley. It will open at 6:00.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made for the benefit of Nicole’s kids to the care of Ken Verhagen, 232 Linwood Ave, Albion.

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

Posted March 13 2024
Mark Lawrence Powley

ALBION- Mark Lawrence Powley, age 60, passed away at his home on February 29, 2024, in Albion, New York. Mark was born on April 16, 1963, in Albion to Terry and Jane Powley.

Mark was a charismatic man of many talents and passions. A supportive friend and generous family man, Mark’s spirit and creativity were evident in everything he did. His legacy will forever be engraved in the hearts of all those who have known him. Passionate about classic cars, Mark owned several, including Camaros and Corvettes. He enjoyed listening to classic rock on his vinyl collection and also loved riding his John Deere Tractor.

Mark was a member of the Ceramic Society and the Glen Regional Corvette Club, where he shared his expertise and enthusiasm. His professional life was equally impressive. For over 36 years, he worked at Corning Incorporated, where his innovative spirit thrived. He proudly developed 23 patents, a testament to his creative genius. This passion for innovation was rooted in his education, having graduated from Albion High School in 1981 and from Cortland State in 1985 with dual degrees in Gemology and Geology. His thirst for knowledge led him to study glass and ceramics at Alfred University, further fueling his inventive mind.

Mark is survived by his children, Karen (Dan) Miller, Jason (Gabriella) Miller, and Angela (Tom Scolaro) Busco; his grandchildren, Tanner, Jared, Jason, Kaylee, Gabriel, Domenico, and Alessandria; brothers, Donald (Michele) Powley and Jason Powley; He will also be fondly remembered by his nephew, Michael Powley and nieces Amanda, Ruth, and Hope Powley. Mark was preceded in death by his loving parents, Terry and Jane (Balfour) Powley.

All services for Mark will be private.

Mark’s family entrusted his care to Haughey Funeral Home, Inc. www.haugheyfuneralhome.com

Posted March 13 2024
Marjorie J. Tower

ALBION- Marjorie J. Tower, age 95, passed away March 12, 2024 at the Martin Linsin Hospice Residence. She was born July 17, 1928 in Albion to the late Nelson and Elsie (Littlejohn) Wickham.

Marjorie worked for the telephone company and lastly as a bookkeeper for Halstead Oil Company. She was very active over the years with various organizations, including the Home Bureau, Cub Scout Den Mother, TWIG, the Rebekah’s, numerous square-dancing clubs, as well as the National Campers & Hikers Association. In her spare time, she liked to read, play cards, listen to music, especially show tunes, bake, and camp. Marjorie was also an active member of the Albion First Presbyterian Church for many years.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband Arnold, and son Richard “Dick” Tower, twin sister Marion Carges, and grandson Duane Charache.

Marjorie is survived by her children, John (Fran) Tower, Susan (Joe) Barlog, daughter-in-law, Ann Tower, grandchildren: Mark, Bill (Erin), Matthew, Sonya (Chad), Molly (Jimmy), Josh (Kameko), great-grandchildren: Tyiler, Blake, Jackson, Boe, Kayda, Dallas, Quentin, Amelia, great-great-granddaughter Theodora as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Marjorie’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 21 West Ave. Albion, NY 14411 on Wednesday, March 20th from 10:00am to 12:00pm where her funeral service will follow at 12:00pm. Interment will be held in Mt. Albion Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in her name may be made to Hospice of Orleans 14080 Route 31 Albion, NY 14411.
To share a special memory of Marjorie, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Posted March 12 2024
Ronald E. “Ron” Baubie

MEDINA – Ronald E. “Ron” Baubie, 77, of Medina, NY, entered into rest on Monday, March 11, 2024, at the Batavia VA Medical Center.

Born on August 6, 1946, in Medina, NY, he was the son of the late Stanley J. and Clara (Thompson) Baubie.

Ron attended Medina High School and went on to receive a Drafting Degree. He was drafted into the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. On returning home, he worked as a Dietician at the Medina Memorial Hospital until his retirement. He was a member of the American Legion Butts -Clark Post 204 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Lincoln Post 1483. In his spare time, Ron enjoyed drawing, playing cards, and watching the Buffalo Bills play.

Ron is survived by his niece, Melissa (Mike) Clark of Waterport, NY, a great-niece, Annalee, and several cousins; he was known to many as “Uncle Ronnie.”

Relatives and friends may call on Friday, March 15 2024, from 4:00 PM-7:00 PM at the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St. Medina, NY 14103. A private service and burial will be held at the convenience of the family.

Instead of flowers, memorials may be made in Ron’s name to the VA WNY Healthcare System, c/o CDCO, 222 Richmond Ave, Batavia, NY 14020.

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

Posted March 11 2024
Garland Kimball Miller

American flagCARLTON – In loving memory of Garland Kimball Miller, who, at the venerable age of 98, departed this life on the 10th of March 2024. Born to the late Berenice and Gerald Miller on the 2nd day of January 1926 in Carlton, New York, he lived a life marked by service, dedication, and the joy of simple pleasures.

Garland answered the call of duty when drafted into the Army and served with honor from 1942 to 1944. His bravery in the face of adversity during World War II in both the Pacific and Atlantic theaters shall forever be remembered.

Upon returning to civilian life, Garland pursued a career as a truck driver and mechanic. Later in life he retired after many years of commendable service with the Albion New York State Department of Transportation as head mechanic. His work ethic and commitment to his profession inspired all who knew him.

Garland found solace and delight in the quiet pursuit of puzzle-solving, earning recognition for completing one of the world’s largest puzzles. His hobbies also included attending auctions, maintaining his property, collecting local history artifacts and bird & squirrel watching. He was a pillar in his community, actively participated in the American Legion, the Orleans Genealogy Society, the WNY Steam Show Association, and several Railroad Associations.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories for his remaining sibling, Darleene Johnson; children, Cheryl McCarthy, (d. James), Lynn Miller and his wife Elaine, and Terry Miller and his wife Gina; his grandchildren, Laura, Erin and Heather McCarthy, Chad & Corey Miller, Misty Woodlee (John) and several great-grandchildren, along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members and close friends. Also, he touched the hearts of his cherished health care girls, Terry Condoluci, Felicia Snook, Della Fisher, and Jamie Underwood.

Garland was predeceased by his beloved life companion, Mary Roth, and his brother, Reed Miller; his sisters, Leona Leofsky and Geraldine Schuck; and grandson, Duane Miller.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes in Albion on Friday, March 15, from 4 to 7 p.m. where his Celebration of Life Service will be at 7 p.m. Military Honors will follow his service. Our hearts are heavy, but we are comforted knowing Garland rests in eternal peace and that his legacy endures through the lives he touched. The family suggests that those wishing to express sympathy consider donating to PAWS of Albion, NY, in Garland’s memory.

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

Posted March 11 2024
Linda P. Smith

MEDINA- Linda P. Smith, of Medina, passed away on Sunday, March 10, 2024 surrounded by her loving family.
Born on March 8, 1946 in Medina, she was a daughter of the late Howard and Ida (Allen) Gardner. Linda grew up in Medina and graduated from Medina High School in 1964. On July 25, 1964, she married George W. Smith and the couple raised a family of three children. Having studied at the Sherwood School of Music, Linda was an exceptional pianist. She enjoyed playing bingo, going to the casino and traveling with her husband to Florida. A wonderful cook, she loved cooking and entertaining for the holidays. During her retirement, Linda’s love of cooking led her to build and operate The Old Mill Run Restaurant in Medina, where she was best known for her macaroni and potato salad. Linda especially loved spending time with her family, who will miss her dearly.
In addition to her parents she was predeceased by her husband, George on February 28, 2018; and her brother, James (June) Gardner.
Linda is survived by her three children, David (Karla) Smith, Karen (Paul) Curtin and Robert (Karen) Smith; eight grandchildren, Kristen (Matt) Pelkey, Zachery (Lana) Curtin, Kalie (Jake) Zelazny, Cameron Smith, Kyle Smith, Alex Smith, Anthony Brown and Abigail Brown; four great-grandchildren, Sean and Caroline Pelkey, Arilyn and Lila Zelazny; sister, Donna (Phil) Miller; sister in-law, Joanne (James) Harley; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
There will be no prior calling hours. A graveside committal service will be held in Millville Cemetery at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in memory of Linda may be made to the Knights-Kaderli Memorial Fund, PO Box 684, Medina, NY 14103 or to Hospice of Orleans at www.hospiceoforleans.org. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

Posted March 11 2024
Marjorie “Midge” Warren

KENT- Marjorie “Midge” Warren, age 84, died March 10, 2024 in her daughter’s home lovingly surrounded by her family. She was born June 4, 1939 in Eagle Harbor to Alva and Monica Bates and was a life-long resident of this area.

Midge was a self-employed beautician for many years and also worked as a secretary for the Kendall School District. She was a member of the Eagle Harbor United Methodist Church, and was also an Ombudsman and Patient Advocate at The Village of Orleans. Midge also learned signed language which she taught privately in the community and she also taught line dancing. Midge volunteered with the Orleans County Veteran Transport Service as a driver and when nothing else was going on, she enjoyed her coffee time with her girlfriends. Mrs. Warren was predeceased by her parents and her husband Charlie.

She is survived by her son: David (Peggy) Warren of Kent, her daughters: Cathy (David) Magowan of Kent, Connie (Christine) Warren of VA, her sister: Joan Wraight of Barre Center, her grandchildren: David (Evelyn) Warren, Tricia Warren, Torrie (John) Kramer and her great grandchildren: Hailey and Charles.

The family will receive friends at the Eagle Harbor Methodist Church, Eagle Harbor Methodist c/o Michelle Howard 2364 Lake Road Hamlin, NY 14464, FRIDAY MARCH 22, 2024 from 1-3 immediately followed by her Memorial Service beginning at 3 pm. Private interment at the convenience of the family will be held in West Kendall Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the church at Eagle Harbor Methodist, c/o Michelle Howard at 2364 Lake Road, Hamlin, NY 14464 or the American Cancer Society, 1120 Goodman St. S., Rochester, NY 14620. Midge’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes of Albion. To share a special memory of Midge, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Posted March 10 2024
Harry A. Houghtling

American flagROYALTON – Harry A. Houghtling, age 75, died March 9, 2024 in his home following a brief illness.  He was born September 30, 1948 in Niagara Falls to Richard and Margaret (Burrows) Houghtling and had lived in this area all of his life.

Harry was United States Army Veteran of the Vietnam War where he served as a gunner on a helicopter.  H was Vice President of the Vietnam Veterans of Niagara County, retired as a Tinsmith from General Motors, enjoyed hunting and loved the outdoors.

He had two special loves in his life which were his cats: Mikey and his “princess” Sadie.

Mr. Houghtling was predeceased two sisters, Judy and Donna, and a brother, Kenny.

He is survived by his wife, Cheryl; his sons, Heath and Joshua Houghtling, Matthew and Brett Winters; his brothers, Gary and Ray (Virginia) Houghtling; 3 grandchildren, Emily, Warren and Sage; as well as several nieces and nephews.

There will be no calling hours.  A private service and interment will be held in WNY National Cemetery at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to: The Wounded Warriors Project, 600 River Ave., Unit 400, Pittsburgh, PA 15212.

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

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

Posted March 09 2024
Michael E. Budynski

WATERPORT – Michael E. Budynski, age 74, passed away March 8, 2024 at the Martin Linsin Residence following a long illness. He was born February 5, 1950, in Albion, a son of the late Earl and Laura (Kokoszka) Budynski and had lived in this area all of his life.

Mike graduated from Albion High School in 1968. He and his late brother Gary, followed in their father and uncle’s paths, working on the family dairy farm that their grandfather started. Mike enjoyed the outdoors, music and woodworking.

He is survived by his sister Linda (Rodney) Daniels and many loving cousins and friends.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, 21 West Ave. Albion on Wednesday March 13th from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. where his funeral service will be at  1 p.m. Burial will follow in Mt. Albion Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Hospice of Orleans, 14084 Rte. 31, Albion NY 14411 or to the Carlton Fire Company, 14341 Waterport Carlton Rd. Albion NY 14411.

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

Posted March 09 2024
Jamie L. Blanchet

Jamie L. Blanchet, 48, of Tampa, FL, entered into eternal rest on January 12, 2024 following a brief illness.

Born June 22, 1975 in Alexandria, VA, she was the beloved daughter of Robert and Peggy (Rice) Blanchet.

Jamie was born and raised in Virginia and moved to the Tampa area in 1998. There she worked as an emergency veterinary nurse for many years. Jamie had many certifications in her field and was always learning new techniques to care for her patients. Jamie so enjoyed helping whatever animal came through the doors, whether it was dogs, cats, owls, birds, eagles, raccoons, squirrels or something else. Jamie was famous for saying, “It’s fine.” She helped them all and was very skilled in her work. She also enjoyed volunteering in wildlife rehabilitation and enjoyed crafts and jigsaw puzzles in her spare time.

Left to cherish her memory are her parents, Robert and Peggy Blanchet of Woodbridge, VA; brother, Jason Blanchet of Woodbridge, VA; aunts and uncles, Robert Rice of Medina, NY, Sue (Robert) Cunningham of Clinton, CT, Linda Blanchet of Batavia, NY and Richard (Sue) Blanchet of Belleville, IL; and numerous cousins and extended family.

She was predeceased by maternal grandparents, Leonard and Lucille Rice; paternal grandparents, Dr. Harvey J. (Florence) Blanchet; and her uncle, Dr. Harvey J. Blanchet III of Batavia.

Private interment will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Medina. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

Posted March 09 2024
Blaine R. Poler

MEDINA – Blaine R. Poler, 82, of Medina, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 7, 2024. A son of the late Blair W. and Alethe A. (Fearby) Poler, he was born May 8, 1941 in Medina.

Mr. Poler graduated from Medina High School in 1959. Shortly after, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force serving from 1959-1966. Early on, Mr. Poler worked for Bausch & Lomb and lastly for Eastman-Kodak, retiring in 1991.

An avid outdoorsman, he had a passion for hunting, both gun and archery. Mr. Poler travelled extensively on hunting excursions, notably to Alaska. In his later years, he enjoyed daily coffee and talks with his daughter, Nickie, and especially loved spending time with his granddaughter, Aly.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother, Karl Poler.

Left to cherish his memory are his children, Shannon (Martine) Greek of Montreal, QC, Darwin Poler, Eric (Kerry) Poler both of Medina; Chad (Amy) Bronson of FL and Nickie (Nick) Poler of Albion; grandchildren, Alyson Snow, Jacob Girardo, Maxim and Stella Poler, and Eden Bronson and Gavin Bronson; siblings, Larry (late Ann) Poler, Jay Poler and Susan (Andrew) Johnson; also several nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, March 15 from 3 to 6 p.m. followed by full military honors at 6 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Future interment will be in the WNY National Cemetery, Pembroke.

Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association of WNY, www.alz.org/wny. Share condolences and memories at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

Posted March 08 2024
Capt. William F. Ashmore

KENT — Capt. William F. Ashmore of Kent, NY passed away just one week of shy his 87th birthday, joining his wife Clarissa “Sissy” Ashmore. He is survived by his daughter Debbie Ashmore, son-in-law Pete Matuskevich, son Matthew Ashmore, daughter-in-law Chris Ashmore, son Ricky Ashmore, and only granddaughter Amanda Matuskevich.

Born in Ludowici, GA in 1937, he led a life of adventure. He was a policeman, an electrician, business owner, farmer, coon dog hunter, horse lover and a fisherman. It was his time at the helm of Just 4 Fun charters that he will be most remembered for. Those that went out on Capt. Bill’s boat never came home empty handed nor without a few stories about ol’ Bill.

His family will host a Celebration of Life in the Spring at a later time to be announced, at his “office” on Lake Ontario, where they will tell a few tales and perhaps catch a few fish.

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

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