Obituaries

Raymond J. “RJ” Morgan, age 53, of Medina, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Monday, March 27, 2023.

Born July 9, 1969 in Medina, RJ was the son of the late Raymond P. “Pete” Morgan and Patricia A. (Wengrzycki) Morgan. He was a graduate of Medina High School, Class of 1987. Since he was a child, RJ’s passion in life was undoubtedly firefighting. He began his firefighting career with the Village of Medina Fire Department in 1991. He earned the rank of Captain and was also a NYS Fire Instructor from 2006-2013. RJ retired from Medina Fire Department in 2012.

Following retirement, he began Morgan’s Enterprise, a snow plowing and lawncare company, which he enjoyed running alongside his sons. RJ was a sports enthusiast and loved camping with family and friends. RJ was known for always being willing to help anyone in need. He will be dearly missed by his family, friends and the entire Medina community.

Left to cherish his memory are his fiancé, Karen Nashwenter; two sons, Kyle Morgan and Justin Morgan (Shannon Stephenson); stepdaughters, Aubrey Fortunato (Bryan Mullins), Alecia (Kenneth) Urbanik and Amber Fortunato (Zachary Baldwin); step grandsons, Jaxon and Maverick; mother, Patty Morgan; sister, Julie Hibbard (Brian Southcott); mother of his children, Roxane (Paul) Mann; nephew, Scott Hibbard; niece, Allison Hibbard; several aunts, uncles and extended family. RJ was predeceased by his father, Pete Morgan in 2018; brother in-law, Steve Hibbard in 2017; and uncle, Scott Wengrzycki in 1987.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday, April 2 from 2:00-6:00 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Interment will be privately held in Boxwood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Medina Fire Dept.- Benevolent Association, 600 Main St., Medina, NY 14103 or to Medina Sports Boosters, 316 South Ave., Medina, NY 14103. Share memories and condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com

Lyndonville- Cheryl C. Mart (Imbriglio) March 25, 2023 at age 75. Predeceased by her parents Domenic & Cecilia Imbriglio and her brother, Gary Imbriglio.

Survived by her beloved husband of 25 years, Kenneth, her son, Leonard (LoAnn) Desmond; Grandchildren, Leanne & Domenic Desmond; her brother & sister, Carmine (Jane) Imbriglio and Gail (Zachary) Ashes; many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Cheryl worked for 31 years at Monroe Community College, first as a secretary in the admissions office and the English department. She later worked for the Deans of Arts & Humanities, Social & Behavior Sciences, and Business Administration. She finished her career as the administrative assistant to the Dean of Science, Health and Business.

She received the Distinguished Service Award for Support Staff in 1985.  She served on the Support Staff Professional Development Committee for several years. She was on numerous support staff search and hiring committees throughout the College. She organized many faculty professional development workshops and honors convocations, served on the Rochester Academy of Science Annual Meeting Committee which was hosted by MCC in 2004, served on the Kodak Day at MCC Committee in 2004. She was a co-captain for the Monroe Community College Foundation’s Building on Success campaign in 2000 and a member of the Office Technology Advisory Committee in 2003-2004.

Cheryl was also an active member in the International Association of Administrative Professionals for more than twenty years, serving as President of the local Flower City Chapter from 1998 to 2000. She was honored as its Member of the Year in 2000.

She was a member of the Rochester Sail and Power Squadron Squardonettes, assisting with the boater safety mission of the organization.

In retirement years, Cheryl enjoyed spending time reading books, traveling to visit family, keeping up on her grandchildren’s school and sport activities; their gymnastics scores and soccer performance. She volunteered at Supportive Care of Orleans, where she performed various office duties. She also was an Orleans County Board of Elections Poll Worker for local, state and national elections.

Calling hours Thursday 4-7 pm at Falvo Funeral Home, 1395 N. Goodman St. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Supportive Care of Orleans at 14080 Rte. 31 West, Albion, NY 14411. Interment private.

MEDINA – Joanne Irene Feller, 70, of Medina, passed away on March 26, 2023 at United Memorial Medical Center.

Joanne was born June 16,1952 in Medina, a daughter of the late Ferdinand and Virginia (Allen) Kopitzki.

Joanne loved being with her family, she was a doting grandmother who was known as Oma by her grandchildren.  She adored her cats, birds, her dog, Gizmo and also loved elephants.  While she worked at the former Super Duper/Jubilee in Medina, Joanne developed a special bond with all of her “kids” that worked with her. 

Surviving are her husband of 51 years, Hebert Feller, Jr. of Medina; children, Yvonne (Jeffery) Freeman of LeRoy, Gretchen (Donald) Carr of Albion, James (Noelle) Feller of Brockport and Carla Feller of Medina; grandchildren, Schuylar Freeman, Teaghan Freeman, Elijah Feller and Madison Feller; a brother, Robert Kopitzki of Holley; sisters, Jean (late William) Taylor of Barker and Sandra Ruth of Greece and several nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by her son, Herbie Feller.

Services for Joanne will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to American Cancer Society, www.cancer.org. Please leave a condolence, share a story, or light a candle at www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements for Joanne were entrusted to the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, Batavia, (585) 343-8868.

MEDINA – Bernice K. Sheldon of Medina entered into rest on Friday, March 24, 2023 at the age of 100.

Born September 10, 1922 in Medina, she was a daughter of the late Joseph and Mary (Mortka) Kubatek.

On July 26, 1947 she married Franklin A. Sheldon at the Sacred Heart Church Rectory. Bernice was a lifelong member of the Sacred Heart of Jesus R.C. Church in Medina. Active in her church, she served as Eucharistic Minister and volunteered on the Bereavement Committee. Upon its closing she became a member of Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church.

She enjoyed her time as a homemaker and also worked various jobs, lastly retiring from Fisher-Price Toys in Medina. She also volunteered her time helping at the MAAC food pantry. Bernice especially enjoyed vacations in the Adirondacks with her family.

Mrs. Sheldon was predeceased by her husband, Franklin, in 1997; and siblings, Florence Andrews, Helen Mauragis, Stanley Kubatek, Adeline Schultz, Waldemar Kubatek and Francis Kubatek.

Left to cherish her memory are her two daughters, Sue (Patrick) Finn of Fairport and Sally (Scott) Grimm of Medina; six grandchildren, Katie (Ryan) McElhiney, Gregory Finn, Annie (Rob) Hannan, Tom (Cindy McLaughlin) Grimm, Chris (Brooke) Grimm and Heather (Tony) Solito; 11 great-grandchildren who brought her great joy in the later years of her life; and several nieces and nephews.

Her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, April 1, at 11 a.m. at Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church, 211 Eagle St., Medina. Interment will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude children’s Hospital at www.stjude.org/donate or P.O. Box 1000, Dept. 142, Memphis, TN 38101 or to Holy Trinity Parish at the address above. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

ALBION – Roger E. LaMont, 80, passed away March 21, 2023 at Unity Hospital. He was born June 24, 1942 in Medina, a son of the late Thomas and Mary (Snell) Lamont and had lived in Albion all of his life.

Roger was born to farm. He began honing his agricultural expertise early, driving farm equipment at age 4. Roger graduated from Albion High School in 1960, and continued to Cornell University where he received a B.S. in Agricultural Economics in 1964. He was very active in Cornell’s Alpha Zeta Fraternity Chapter where he developed many strong, personal friendships which were maintained throughout his life. Upon graduation, he returned to the farm, joining his father and brother in the active management of Lamont Fruit Farm. His mechanical knowledge knew no bounds, leading him to be an owner of Massey-Ferguson dealership, Ridge Equipment, for 10 years.

Roger was an active member of the agricultural community, participating in numerous organizations: NY Apple Association, International Fruit Tree Association (IFTA), NY Farm Bureau, NY Leadership (Class I). He was one of the founders of the Crunch Time Apple Growers which facilitated the development of unique apple varieties that would directly support his fellow New York State growers. The SnapDragon and RubyFrost apple varieties are the first successful products of this initiative.

Roger was generous in applying his business skills to initiatives that would bolster his community. He served as Co-Chair of the Fundraising Committee for the Hoag Library. In the 1980s, he worked diligently to change the county governance model from supervisors to legislators. This enabled equal representation of voting within Orleans County.

He held great passion for history and genealogy. A faithful congregant of Gaines-Carlton Community Church, he served as the church historian. He was also the much sought after source for LaMont family information. He was always ready to share data and anecdotes with others; whether or not they were interested was optional. He had a great sense of humor, and everyone seems to have more than one “I remember when Roger…” story.

The family would like to thank all the caregivers that gave their time, attention, and love to Roger over the last few years.

Roger’s most important role was as husband, father and grandfather. There was no adventure he was unwilling to tackle and gracefully endure. He loved and was loved by his family.

In addition to his parents, Roger was predeceased by his infant son Kenneth and brother George.

Roger is survived by his wife of 57 years, Ingrid; children Kristina (Scott) Kramer, Suzanne (Brad Jones) LaMont and Kurt (Lindsay) LaMont; grandchildren Alex and Aaron Kramer, Carter and Ryan LaMont; sisters Marjorie Murdock, Marcia Charlton as well as several nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, grand-nephews and cousins.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc. 21 West Ave. Albion on Friday, March 31, from 4 to 7 p.m. His Celebration of Life Service will be held Saturday, April 1, at 2 p.m. at the Gaines Carlton Community Church, 14585 Ridge Rd. W., Albion NY 14411. Burial will be in Mt. Albion Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Hoag Library, 134 S. Main St., Albion NY 14411 or the Orleans Koinonia Community Kitchen, 560 East Ave., Albion NY 14411.

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

HOLLEY – Mark R. Shampine II, 38 of Hulberton Road, died suddenly at his residence March 22, 2023.  Mark was born June 17, 1984 in Brockport to Mark and Diane (Bower) Shampine and was a life-long resident of this area.

As a lover of music, Mark was a singer/songwriter and loved to play his guitar. He also toured with the band “Green Jello” in years past. Mark also loved gardening, working on the farm and taking care of the livestock. He had a strong love for his family, and especially cherished his two nieces.

Mark is survived by his parents, Mark and Diane (Bower) Shampine of Holley; his paternal grandmother, Beverly (Kenneth) Verblaauw of Waterport; two brothers, Adam (Sherri) Shampine of Spencerport and Alan (Amber) Shampine of Holley; his very special nieces, Jayda and Sophia as well as several aunts, uncles, cousins including a special cousin, Harry J. Bower II.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 16650 State Route 31-Holley, on Thursday, March 30, from 5 to 7 p.m. only. A private interment will be held at the convenience of the family.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Orleans Recovery-Hope Begins Here, 243 S. Main, Suite 190, Albion, NY, 14411.

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

HOLLEY – Bernard “Bernie” Yoffredo died on 3/20/2023 in Palm Harbor, Fl. He was raised in Holley, NY, and was predeceased by his parents Joseph and Mary (Christopher) Yoffredo.

Also predeceasing him were his siblings David, Florence, Helen (Carlo), and Albert, his dear wife Marlene (Webster), nephews Edward and Fred Carlo, and niece Carolyn Vandetta. He is survived by his five nieces.

Following his graduation from Holley High, he attended Brockport State, served in the US Army in Korea, and returned to Brockport where he earned his BS, MS, and later a CAS, and additional doctoral studies at the University of Buffalo.

His teaching/administrative career took him to Holley, Albion, Byron-Bergen, G-W BOCES, MUSDA, and SUNY Brockport. Following his retirement from education in 1981, he and Marlene built, operated and owned Bernie’s Laundromat in Medina, NY, and was also involved in many real estate projects in Orleans and Monroe Counties.

A Celebration of Life and Military Funeral will be held in Holley, NY at a later date.

Anyone wishing to make a memorial donation, can do so at Suncoast/Empath Hospice, Roosevelt Blvd, Clearwater, Fl.

György “George” Papp, loving husband, father and papa passed away on Mon., March 20, 2023 at the age of 72 of pancreatic cancer.

George was born on April 9, 1950 in Budapest, Hungary. He moved his family to America in 1988. George operated his own carpentry business until he retired in 2016. He was a devout Christian and loved God with all his heart. His passion was to spread the gospel everywhere he went.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Priscilla.

He is survived by his four children, Roland Doktor, Nikoletta (Patrick) Lauer, Daniel (Abigail) Papp and Benjamin (Ashley) Papp; and his grandchildren, Sophia, Winston, Grayson, Kenneth, Kinsley, Éva, Mia and Kilenc.

Calling hours were held on Friday, March 31, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. His funeral service were held on Saturday, April 1, at 10 a.m. at the Alabama Full Gospel Church, 5329 South Gravel Rd., Medina. Interment was held in the Mt. Pleasant Cemetery. Share memories and condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

“For we live by faith, not by sight. We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord.”
2 Corinthians 5:7-8 NIV

MEDINA – Barbara Brodie Krombein, 77, of Medina, NY, passed away peacefully in her sleep with her daughter, Aurion by her side.

Barbara is predeceased by her parents, William and Doris B Krombein, and her sister Karen L Clark.  Barbara is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Brendan, M & Aurion AC (Lovell) Mattingly, grandson Christopher M Mattingly (fiancé Shayla Fureno) and great grandson, Monte Maguire Mattingly, granddaughter, Sarah E Mattingly (fiancé, Jonah Roberts), niece Lynn H Weaver (husband, Eric), grandniece Kelsey Dudarchik, grandnephew Connor Dudarchik, nephew Brian W Clark (wife Sharon), grandniece Erica Clark and grandnephew Ryan Clark, and her niece Laureen L Clark.  Barbara is also missed by her dear friends and extended family.

Barbara graduated at Lakeshore Senior high school and studied art at Hiram College in Ohio. She then married Robert C Lovell (deceased) And lived in Angola New York, where they had bought a church and built a home within.  In 1972 moved to Lyndonville, New York, where she bred and raised thoroughbred and Trakehner horses. Barbara was a remarkably creative artist who began designing her own quilts, painted and in addition to many hobbies read every book she could lay her hands upon.  Barbara was well read and well-traveled, as far as Europe and Alaska. Barbara resided in Medina for her remaining years where she continued quilting, sewing and gardening. She leaves behind many beautiful works of art and personal treasures passed down by her family.

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

In lieu of flowers, please direct donations to the cause of your choice.

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

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

HOLLEY – Paul Frederick Dickinson passed away on Friday, March 17, 2023 at the age of 82.

He was predeceased by his parents, John and May Belle Dickinson.

He is survived by his loving wife, Joan H. Dickinson; his son, Robert J. Dickinson; his daughters, Dawn C. Dickinson (James Harstad) and Debra J. (James) Robbins; his granddaughter, Adelyn S. Robbins; and his sisters, Virginia Yoho and Marsha Ladd.

Paul was a Veteran of the US Air Force. He was a retired employee of Eastman Kodak. He enjoyed reading, vintage cars, and air shows. He had a wonderful appreciation for wildlife.

There will be no formal services. A private interment will take place in Grandview Cemetery in Batavia, New York.

ALBION – Edwin L. Sidari, 79, passed away peacefully March 17, 2023 at the Martin Linsin Hospice residence. He was born in Bismark, North Dakota, a son of the late Rocco A. Sidari Sr. and Angeline (Hess) Sidari.

Ed served in the United States Marine Corps from 1962-1966. He lived a colorful life and created a hundred lifetimes of memories! He experienced a variety of fulfilling friendships, interests, and hobbies throughout his 79 years and is known in our parts as the “Unelected Mayor of Albion” and quite a legend.

Among his many entertaining stories, some of Ed’s favorites were of his time in the Marine Corps (a special connection he shared with his son) and the friendships he made while enlisted. Relationships and connection to people were always important to him. It could be seen in all the facets of who he was and how God used him in this lifetime.

It was seen in his work at Kodak and how he became a self-taught photographer, photo developer, and shutterbug enthusiast. He loved to photograph people in candid moments of life in order to capture their pure emotion and humanness. That talent and interest was passed on to his daughter and remains a special part of their relationship.

Dad’s love for relationship and connection was also seen in the many volunteer positions he held within the community, including as an Orleans County Hospice volunteer, a eucharistic minister at St. Joseph’s parish, COVA volunteer, a youth softball coach, Nursing Home volunteer, Religious Education teacher, volunteer at Bullard Park Recreation Youth Program, head of the unofficial “welcoming committee” for new priests and, most notably, as a professional comedian within our town.

He truly loved talking to people! (and trees, and flag poles, and anything nearby!) He always offered a listening ear, an open heart, and wonderful wisdom to anyone in need. He was a dear friend and confidant to many, and everyone who ever met him will likely have an Eddie story that is highly inappropriate, and that’s what made him so fun!

Some of his other work, interests and hobbies included carpentry (like his dad and brothers), fishing (which is something he introduced his grandson to), antique dealing, and having deep, introspective conversations with his cat, Homer.

One page cannot sum up the essence of Ed Sidari. He was bigger than life and an icon in our community. He provided his children with a wonderful life focused on God, family, and respect for all people and animals, and his legacy of laughter and love will carry on through his family and all those who loved him dearly.

Eddie is survived by his daughter, Stephanie Dinwiddie (Jason); his son, Dominick Sidari (Amber); and his two grandsons, Cole and Zachary.

Ed’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 21 W. Avenue, Albion, on Tuesday, March 21, from 4 to 7 p.m. Ed’s Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Family Parish-St. Joseph’s Church on Wednesday, March 22, at 10 a.m. Interment with Military Honors at St. Joseph’s Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Supportive Care of Orleans (Hospice) 14080 Rt. 31, Albion, NY 14411 or Holy Family Parish 106 S. Main St. Albion, NY 14411.

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

ALBION – Sandra L. Ray, 81, passed away peacefully following a brief illness on March 18, 2023.  She was born in Albion, NY to the late William and Charlotte (Marquart) Butcher on December 14, 1941.

Sandra lived in the Albion area her whole life, attending the Eagle Harbor School House and graduating from Albion High School. She went on to become a school bus monitor for Ridge Road Express, working with the Albion Central School District for many years.

Sandra liked flowers and plants, always chiming in to give direction on how her garden should be maintained without getting her hands dirty. Her favorite holiday was Christmas – her collection of ornaments far outweighing the space on one or even two trees. She found enjoyment in the decorations and making her home into a winter wonderland.

Sandra was always one to lend a helping hand as well. She was a friend to everyone and did what she could to help. Sandra’s greatest joy in life was her family, especially spending time with her grandchildren and greatgrandchildren.

Sandra was predeceased by her loving husband, Francis T. Ray on December 23, 2013. She was also predeceased by her parents, and her in-laws, Francis and Lottie (Slocum) Ray.

Sandra is survived by her children, Francis Ray, Kevin (Sherrie Mollosky) Ray, Daniel (Brenda) Ray, Terri L. (Phil) Gibson and Joshua Ray-Herrington; grandchildren, Robert (Chelsea) Drake, Courtney (Eli) Drake and Daniel Ray Jr.; sister, Christine Matull; nieces, Kim (Steve) Jenkins and Lynn (Steve) Matull-Gardner; as well as several great-grandchildren, chosen grandchildren, and her beloved cat, Boots.

Sandra’s funeral service will be held on Saturday, April 1, at 1 p.m. at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 21 West Ave. Albion, NY 14411. Interment will be held at Mt. Albion Cemetery following her funeral service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Sandra’s name may be made to the American Cancer Society: PO Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741 or the American Heart Association: PO Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692.

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

HOLLEY – John H. Weader Sr., of Birdsall and previously of Holley, passed away March 16, 2023. He was born April 14, 1929 in the Town of West Beaver, Sydney County, PA to the late Charles and Annie Weader.

He is also pre-deceased by his son, Kenneth Weader.

John loved the outdoors; hunting, fishing, going camping and sitting by the campfire, going to gun raffles and money raffles. He enjoyed socializing wherever he went.

John spent 33 years working for TJ Lipton in Albion. After the facility’s closure in Albion, he went on to work at the Holley Central School District as a custodian until his retirement 10 years later.

He is survived by his sister, Betty Phillips; children, John (Beverly), Timothy and Christine Allen; grandchildren, Kim, Leslie, Kevin, Timothy, Thomas and Gregory; several great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 16650 State Route 31, Holley, on Wednesday, March 29, from 4 to 6 p.m.

Memorials can be made to the NRA at donate.nra.org.

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

MEDINA – Charles “Chuck” Hartway, loyal husband, loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather, died quietly on Wednesday, March 15, 2023 surrounded by family.

Born March 7, 1937 in Medina, he was a son of the late Charles and Martha (Mauragis) Hartway. Chuck graduated from Medina High School, Class of 1954. A talented athlete, he played for the MAC Semi-Pro Football Team post graduation. On October 17, 1960 he married the love of his life, the former Bonnie J. Payjack, also of Medina. He served in the U.S. Army from 1960-1962.

Chuck was raised and worked on his family farm. He went on to work construction for Frank J. Balcerzak & Son Construction Co. and also Cold Spring Construction Co. under his brother-in-law, Thomas Forrestel and worked on the construction of the Niagara Falls Power Project. He then took a job working for Payjack Chevrolet in Medina. He eventually became co-owner with his brother-in-law, Jack Botsford and later became sole-owner of what became Hartway Motors. To speak of his strong work ethic falls flat.  He was assiduous in his pursuit of a job well done.

Chuck was a lifelong member of Holy Trinity R.C. Parish, St. Mary’s Church in Medina and was a 4th degree member of the Knights of Columbus, Medina Council #651. He also served in Medina Rotary and was a member of Ridgeway Volunteer Fire Company.

As great his passion for farming, his love for his family exceeded all else.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Bonnie Hartway. Together they raised a family of 9 children, Lisa (Tim) Enderby, Jennifer (Jim) Bansbach, Charles (Darlene) Hartway, Bridget DiCureia, Richard (Marie) Hartway, Emily (Lee) Winters, Kara Muscarella, Amanda (Eric) Hoban and Matthew (Bianca) Hartway. He was the proud grandfather of 28 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Paul Hartway and was preceded in death by his sister, Joan Hartway in 2021.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, March 17 from 3:00-7:00 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. His Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, March 18 at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church, 211 Eagle St., Medina. Interment with full military honors will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery. Although Chuck was not one to be the center of attention, he requested a great celebration at his wake, which will be held at The Walsh Tap Room following services. The family would like to thank Medina Memorial Hospital staff for their constant compassion, kindness and support through our journey.

Please share memories and condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com

Albion- William K. Rowles, age 90, died March 10, 2023 in United Memorial Medical Center following a long illness.  He was born Sept., 10, 1932 in Dubois, PA to Eugene and Nona (Hetrick) Rowles and had lived in this area most of his life.

William was a United States Army Veteran having served from 1954-1956.  He enjoyed fishing, hunting, traveling and loved to play cards.  He particularly enjoyed yardwork, especially mowing the lawn, grooming to perfection.  Mr. Rowles was predeceased by a son: James, his brother: Eugene Rowles, and sisters: Eunice Petty, Doris Ezell and Kay Snyder, and his son-in-law: Mike Gregori.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years Shirley, his children: David Fischer of Kent, William (Mariette) Rowles of SC, Donna (Steven) Kovacs of Parish, Lynette (David Gay) Gregori of Elba, his brothers: Robert Rowles of Victor, Fay Rowles of FL, his sisters: Barbara Rodas of Hamlin, Sara Gunderson of CA, 11 grandchildren, many great grandchildren as well as several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends to share memories and stories during a Celebration of Life on Thurs., March 23rd from 1-4 pm at the Albion Elks Lodge, 428 West State St., Albion, NY, 14411.  Military Honors will be presented beginning at 2:30pm at the Lodge.  Private interment will be held at the convenience of the family.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: The American Cancer Society, 1120 S. Goodman St., Rochester, NY, 14620 or the American Heart Association, 444 Liberty Ave., Suite 1300, Pittsburgh, PA, 15222.  William’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home of Albion.  To share a special memory of William, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com

Middleport- Johan G. “Hans” Kobmann, age 89 died March 14, 2023, in Elderwood of Brockport following a long illness.  Hans was born March 25, 1933, to Paul and Kunigunda (Pohlmann) Kobmann.  In 1952, he traveled across the Atlantic from Muggendorf, Germany to fulfill his dream of a life in the United States.  Hans settled in Middleport where he met and married his wife Helga, whom he was married to for 44 years.

As a self-taught, non-English speaking immigrant, Hans worked exceptionally hard learning and mastering the trade of carpentry. There wasn’t anything he couldn’t build.  The talents of his skilled hands are still evident today in public schools from LeRoy to Spencerport, to Roberts Weslyan University Performing Arts Center and Letchworth Pool.  The structures that gave him the most satisfaction were the two family homes he built with his own hands on Freeman Road.  His natural gift for agriculture and gardening were a source of pride for him as he showered others with the fruits (and vegetables) of his labor.  Hans and Helga instilled the values of integrity, strong work ethic, independence, and high standards in his three daughters.  Hans’s happiness came from the accomplishments of his children, sharing the lives of his grandchildren, laughing, and cuddling with his great-grandchildren, and the realization of the legacy he leaves behind. Hans’s quick wit, guidance, know-how, euchre skills and Buffalo Bills commentary will be terribly missed by his loved ones.  Mr. Kobmann was predeceased by his wife Helga as well as several siblings.

He is survived by his children: Heidi Kobmann of Florida, Lorie Green of Spencerport, Melinda (John) Keirsbilck of Greece, his siblings: Elfriede Hoepner and Arthur Kobmann of Germany, his grandchildren: Lindsey, Jacob, Ashley, Doug Jr., Daniel, Joshua, Jason, six great-grandchildren as well as several nieces and nephews in Germany.

The family will receive friends at the Bates, Wallace & Heath Funeral Home, 38 State Street-Middleport, TUESDAY (3/21) from 1-3 where his Funeral Service will be held at 3pm following visitation.  Private interment in Hartland Central Cemetery will be held at the convenience of the family.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Trinity Lutheran Church, 1212 West Ave., Medina, NY, 14103.  Hans’s family wishes to convey their gratitude for the kindness, support and friendship received by friends and staff at The Village at Unity, where he resided for the past two years.  To share a special memory of Hans, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com