Obituaries

Canandaigua – Ila Mae (Young) Sterling, age 92, a loving wife and mother, passed away Thursday, May 16, 2024.  She was predeceased by her husband of 67 years, Dr. James Lloyd Sterling and granddaughter, Karen Sterling. She is survived by four sons, Doug Sterling (Lynne Weber), Dan (Ellen) Sterling, Mark (Sidney) Sterling and Mike (Susan) Sterling; 10 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren; and four sisters, Ann Ebbrecht, Claris Chitirkin, Marion (John) Jorgensen, Margie (Dave) Meyers.

Ila attended Saint Lawrence University where she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in math. There, on one fortuitous winter day, while she was babysitting at the dean’s house, she met Jim (the chapel bell ringer) when he arrived to report that the chapel bells had frozen. They married after graduating.

Ila and Jim settled in Medina NY where Jim established his 27 year Family practice while Ila did the difficult job of raising their four rambunctious sons. Through persistent will, good humor and a gentle manner she bonded them into a loving family. Ila was the magnet that made her home a hub for family gatherings. Many still warmly reminisce about the all the good times at the “Medina House”.

After Jim’s retirement they spent many wonderful years at their dockside condominium in Canandaigua where Ila hosted family and friends for barbecues and boating.

After Jim’s death in 2021, Ila spent 3 comfortable years at Clark Meadows, Canandaigua, aided by her niece and companion Melonie Cuppernell.

She will be deeply missed as we try to pass on her grace, wit and generous heart.

Services are private.  Inurnment will be in Woodlawn Cemetery, Canandaigua. Memorial contributions may be made to Habitat for Humanity of Ontario Co., 3040 Co. Rd. 10, Canandaigua, NY 14424. Arrangements are by Johnson-Kennedy Funeral Home, Inc., Canandaigua. Condolences may be offered at www.johnsonkennedy.com.

CANANDAIGUA – Mary Ellen Wasnock, age 63, passed away after a brief illness, on Saturday, May 18, 2024, while surrounded by her loving family.

She is survived by her son, Aaron J. Maynard; three siblings, Robert Wasnock, Patricia (Mike) Collins and Donald (Nancy) Wasnock; and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brother, Frank Wasnock in 1994.

Mary was born in Medina, NY and was the daughter of Francis and Jean (Moore) Wasnock. She attended Medina schools and was a graduate of Medina High School, class of 1979. Mary worked at the former Jubilee Foods in Medina and also worked at Kleen Brite in Brockport. She then went to work at Walmart in Albion, Henrietta and Canandaigua for a total of 17 years. Mary enjoyed crafts, knitting, crocheting and spending time with family and friends.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date and time to be announced. Interment will be in Reed Corners Cemetery, Gorham. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Arrangements are by Johnson-Kennedy Funeral Home, Inc., Canandaigua. Condolences may be offered at www.johnsonkennedy.com.

MEDINA – Patricia M. (Wilkins) Kennedy, of Medina, passed away on Saturday, May 18, 2024 at the Hospice Wells House at Beechwood Continuing Care in Getzville. Born in Wellsville, NY on October 22, 1940, she was a daughter of the late Raymond E. and Shirley (Smith) Wilkins.

Pat graduated from Scio Central School in 1958 and Alfred State College in 1960. On October 17, 1976 she married Donald F. Kennedy. Blending their families, the couple made their home on West Center Street in Medina.

Pat loved her family and enjoyed hosting family gatherings regularly. While she was modest about playing cards, anyone that played her knew she was a card shark. She enjoyed traveling with Don, especially to St. Martin and many trips with the Busy Buddies. Pat volunteered with the Twig Association at Medina Memorial Hospital for over 50 years. She also volunteered for Hospice of Orleans, the Orleans County Board of Elections and the Medina Food Pantry. Pat was an avid reader and enjoyed attending the library book club and was a long-time member of the Tuesday Club. She particularly enjoyed her years working at Kennedy Brothers Department Store, where she managed the women’s department.

In addition to her parents, Pat was predeceased by her beloved husband of 30 years, Don Kennedy in 2007; brothers in-law, John “Jack” (Betsey) Kennedy and David (Nancy) Kennedy; and sister in-law, Mary Kennedy.

Pat is survived by her children, Marcia (Jeff) Jolton of Getzville, George (Janet) Wood of Nashville, TN, Jason (Laura) Wood of Christiana, TN, Michelle Capstick of Medina, Matthew Kennedy of Middleport and Sarah Kennedy of Williamsville; grandchildren, Edward (Ivy) Jolton, Joshua Jolton, Paris Hargrove, Santana Hargrove, London Hargrove, Casey Capstick, Kevin (Grace) Capstick and Matthew Kennedy, Jr.; great-granddaughter, Kennedy Capstick; siblings, Gertrude “Trudy” (Joe) Fernandez, Richard (Bonita) Wilkins and Deborah Wilkins; brother in-law, Thomas Kennedy as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, May 24 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Her memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 25 at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Orleans at www.hospiceoforleans.org or to the Parkinson’s Foundation at www.parkinson.org. If you would like to memorialize Pat, please toast her with your favorite beverage and pass on some goodwill to your neighbor.

Share memories and condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

MEDINA – Shannon Lee Parker, 54, of Medina, was called home on Thursday, May 16, 2024.

Shannon was born in Medina on October 9, 1969, the son of the late Margie Parker and Terry Marsh. He worked as a skilled laborer for Laborers’ Union Local #435 for over 20 years and was working with Keeler Construction Co. in Albion. Shannon was also a proud auxiliary member of Lincoln Post #1483, VFW.

Shannon lived a life full of adventures and spontaneity. He loved hunting, bowling, playing softball and horseshoes. He also enjoyed drives, kayaking and hiking adventures with his wife, Evon and dog, Shelby. Shannon was a proud father and grandfather and great friend to many. He will be dearly missed by all that knew him.

Shannon is survived by his wife, Evon (Workman) Parker; his children, Brittany Parker (Anthony) and Justin Parker (Hayley); two granddaughters; and many aunts, uncles and cousins all who loved him very much.

A Celebration of Life gathering will be held on Sat. June 8 from 12-4PM at Lincoln Post #1483, VFW, 216 East Center St., Medina, NY 14103. Burial will take place at a later date in West Ridgeway Cemetery, next to his family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Shannon’s memory to PAWS Animal Shelter, 3371 Gaines Basin Rd., Albion, NY 14411.

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

Linda Chamberlain passed away on May 14, 2024 at the age of 81.

Predeceased by her husband, Douglas Chamberlain; parents, Haroldyne & John True; step-mom, Josephine True.

She is survived by her daughter, Kelly Larkin; granddaughter, Courtney; beloved dog, Nemo; siblings, Jaquelyn (Dennis) Powers & John (Kathy) True; nephews, Alex (Sarah) True & Dean Powers; niece, Leigh (Robert) Przepiora; many more nieces, nephews and cousins.

Family will receive friends Saturday June 8, 2024 from 11:00am – 1:00pm. Immediately following will be a memorial service at 1:00pm at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 2636 Ridgeway Avenue.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to: Artists Unlimited, P.O. Box 26766 Rochester, NY, 14626.

To share a memory of Linda or leave a special message for her family, please visit https://www.newcomerrochester.com/

MEDINA-Richard J. Siedlecki, of Medina, entered into rest peacefully on Friday, March 22, 2024.
Born April 7, 1933 in Medina, he was a son of the late Walter and Mary (Kluska) Siedlecki. A decorated Korean War Veteran, he served in the US Air Force from 1950-1954. Richard retired after a long and distinguished career with Niagara Mohawk. An avid golfer, he was a two-time club champion and Invitational winner at Shelridge Country Club.
Richard leaves behind his loving wife of 67 years, the former Mary Louise Ottaviano; two children, Cynthia (Joseph) Tretter of Akron and Andrew (Rose) Siedlecki of Lewiston; five grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.
“Grandpa Shakey”, as his family lovingly called him, was a man of faith and integrity; faithful to his wife and his church and committed to his family and many friends. We pray in Jesus’ name that he is now happily reunited in eternal glory with his mother, Mary, father, Walter, and loving brother, David, smelling the dewy, freshly cut morning grass and draining long birdie putts to his heart’s content. Save us a spot, Dad.
His Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Sat. June 1 at 10AM at Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church, 211 Eagle St., Medina. A graveside committal with full military honors will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery Mausoleum. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

HOLLEY – Kermit P. Beadle, Jr. age 82, passed away May 17, 2024, at Strong Memorial Hospital. He was born February 3, 1942, in Rochester, a son of the late Kermit, Sr. and Dorothy (Rosecrans) Beadle and had lived in this area all his life.

Kermit graduated from Holley High school in 1960. He received his BS from SUNY Brockport in 1964 and his master’s in education in 1966. He taught math at Batavia City School’s for 34 years, retiring in 1998. In the summer months, he was a house painter with fellow teachers from the school. In his younger years, Kermit worked as a meat cutter with his uncle at the family butcher shop. He was the family handyman, painting, plumbing construction, siding, and electrical work for his family and rental properties. In his retirement, he spent many winters in Myrtle Beach. He loved traveling and visited Alaska, Hawaii, and many trips to Las Vegas.

Kermit enjoyed golfing, bowling, hunting, and going to the casino with the Busy Buddies. His greatest accomplishment was getting a hole in one at 80 years old. He was a member of the Wednesday night golf league at Brown Rd. Golf Course in Albion and Thursday morning member at Hickory Ridge Golf Course. He served as Secretary for the Monday men’s bowling league in Albion and Tuesday’s teacher’s league at Mancuso’s in Batavia for many years.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife Maryellen; his sister Karen (David) Webster and step-daughter Holly Simmons.

Kermit is survived by his 2nd wife of 23 years, Rosemarie; son John of Brockport; his daughter Kathy (Scott Hamlin) Sedore of Holley; granddaughter Jessica Sedore of Rochester; nephew Jeffrey (Lauren) Webster of PA; niece Lisa (Tosh) Bitsas of Churchville; great-nieces and nephew Kiki, Ana, Niko Bitsas and Brenleigh Webster; step-children Paul (Sherri) Wishman of FL, Norma Barker of TX, Debby Cravatta of FL and several cousins.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, 16650 State Rte. 31 Holley Saturday May 25th 11:00am-1:00pm where his Memorial Service will follow at 1:00pm. Burial will be in Holy Cross Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield VA 22116-7023.

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

ALBION – Robert A. “Bob” Stirk, age 87, passed away May 15, 2024 at United Memorial Medical Center in Batavia, following a long illness. He was born February 17, 1937 in Albion, a son of the late Andrew J. Stirk and Alice Emmott and had lived in this area all of his life.

Bob graduated from Albion High School and after served two years in the U.S. Army, Specialist 3rd Class from 1955-1957. He retired from Eastman Kodak after 34 years. He volunteered for Hospice of Orleans and also Orleans County Cornell Cooperative 4H. Bob was an avid hunter and fisherman with his friend Tom Smith, spent time on his farm with his family, and was an active member of his church community.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his 1st wife Elaine (Fahmer); his brother Andrew John “Jack” (Elizabeth) Stirk.

Bob is survived by his wife Hope; daughter Patricia (Bobby) Patrick; grandson Alexander “Alec” Youngson; granddaughter Elayna Youngson; step grandson Cody Patrick and step-great grandson Matthew Patrick; step-children John Telovsky, William (Karen) Telovsky and their son Jared.

The family will receive friends at the Gaines Carlton Community Church, 14585 Ridge Rd. Monday, May 20th at 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., service at 1 p.m. followed by a Burial with Military Honors will be in Mt. Albion Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Albion.

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

ALBION – Nancy Jean Ross, age 80, passed away May 2, 2024 at Strong Memorial Hospital following an illness.

She was born November 27, 1943 in Buffalo, a daughter of the late Jesse and Lucy (Ruchaj) Avino and had lived in this area for over 20 years.

Nancy enjoyed talking about football and baseball and liked to bowl.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her son Gary Taradena; fiancé Larry McDermott and her brother Eugene Avino.

Nancy is survived by her daughter Linda Yockel; grandchildren James Denoncourt, Jessica Taradena and Nick Kalmbacher; great-grandchildren Dominic, Garrett and Logen; sister-in-law Patricia (Bob Zipeto) Avino and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Her celebration of life service will be held at the convenience of the family.  Arrangements were entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Albion.

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

HOLLEY – Elizabeth Ann (Barber) Krzemien quietly passed away in the comfort of family on March 2, 2024 at the age of 72. Liz was born March 24, 1951 and grew up in Holley, NY.

She is the daughter of the late Michael Angelo and the late Frances Emily (Zdrojewska) Barber, loving mother of DeAnne L Carney and Dr. Michael B (Krista) Krzemien; devoted grandmother of Connor Krzemien (Shelby Glinsky), Cassandra (Ryan) Higgins, Briggs Krzemien and Boden Krzemien; caring great-grandmother to Logan Krzemien and Isabelle Higgins, dear sister of Mike (Toni) Barber, Paul Barber and Debbie (Richie) Doyle; aunt to many nephews and nieces.

Elizabeth’s Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Mary’s, Holley on Saturday, May 18, 2024 at 11 a.m.  Her committal will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery.

ALBION – Bonita A. “Bonnie” Bilicki, age 77, died unexpectedly May 6, 2024 in Strong Memorial Hospital. She was born September 22, 1946 in Albion to Carl and Marion (Levandowski) Pawlaczyk and was a life-long resident of this area.

Bonnie was a member of Holy Family Parish, the Jr. Wilson Sportsman Club, and a past member of the St. Mary’s Athletic Club. She enjoyed playing cards, BINGO, mobile phone games, watching old Westerns and the Buffalo Bills. She was the New York Yankee’s #1 fan and the only thing she loved more were her grandchildren. Mrs. Bilicki was predeceased by her husband Laurence, a son: Charles, grandchildren: Khristine, Rob Jr., and her brother: Carl Jr.

She is survived by her children: David “Bo” (Suzy) Bilicki of Gasport, Lynne Stanley of Albion, Kate (Joe) Levanduski of Medina, Laurie (Nick) Willie of Medina, Dan (Cathy) Bilicki of CT, Mark (Tammy) Pawlaczyk of Rochester, Roxanne (Randy Olson) Bilicki of Spencerport, her sisters: Esther (Ron) Burnette of Fl, Patricia (Bob Zapito) Avino of Albion, Margie Shelfer of Palmyra, Bernie Brown of FL, several grandchildren, a few great grandchildren, a few great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and her best friend: Sandy Hinman.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 21 West Avenue-Albion, FRIDAY from 4-7pm. Family and friends are invited to attend her Mass of Christian Burial in Holy Family Parish-Albion, SATURDAY at 11am followed by interment in Mt. Albion Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Heart Association, 20 Northpoint Pkwy, Suite 130, Buffalo, NY, 14228, or the Disabled American Veteran, 100 Exchange Blvd., Rochester, NY, 14604. To share a special memory of Bonnie, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com

LYNDONVILLE – Richard D. Bruning age 80, passed away May 8, 2024 at his home with his family by his side.  He was born May 31, 1943 in Albion, a son of the late Louis and Dora (Eick) Bruning.

Richard served in the US Air Force during the Vietnam Era.  He was a member of S.C.O.P.E.  He loved and built many computers, which he taught himself how to do.

In addition to his parents he was predeceased by his brothers Roger, Russell and Ronnie.

He is survived by his daughter Mae (Joseph) Mohney; grandchildren William, Jeffery, Christopher, Cassandra (Cody), Christina (Spencer) and Ella; siblings Robert Bruning, Randy Bruning, Donna Bruning, great-granddaughter Charleigh, as well as several nieces and nephews.

There are no prior calling hours.  His Funeral Service will be Friday May 10th at 11:00am at the Bates, Wallace and Heath Funeral Home, 38 State St., Middleport. His burial with Military Honors will follow at Royalton Mountain Ridge Cemetery.

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