Obituaries

MEDINA – Sidney E. Cree, 95, of Medina, NY, entered the kingdom of Heaven on Saturday, September 13, 2025 at the Medina Memorial Hospital.

A son of the late Morris and Susan (Lefebvre) Cree, he was born November 2, 1929 in Oka, Quebec on the Kanestake Reserve.

Mr. Cree was born and raised as a proud member of the Wolf Clan. On June 9, 1951, he married the former Iola I. Frier. Early on, Mr. Cree was employed by Canadian Shade Tree in Montreal. A few years later, along with their four children, the family immigrated to the United States, settling in Middleport, NY. Mr. Cree worked as a tree foreman for Niagara Tree Experts and lastly for Niagara Mohawk for many years.

Mr. Cree was a faithful disciple of Jesus Christ. He and his family have been longtime and active parishioners of Oak Orchard Assembly of God in Medina since 1958. Mr. Cree was the beloved patriarch of his family and loved spending quality time with his many grandchildren. Mr. Cree had a strong connection to nature and loved gardening, hunting and fishing. He loved to travel and took many trips to Northern Quebec. He also enjoyed golfing, Nascar racing, baseball and was a diehard NY Yankees fan.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his beloved wife, Iola Cree in 2010; and siblings, Helen Simon, Stanley Cree, Rodger Cree, Hilda Garcia, Hubert Cree and Wallace Cree; and son in-law, Loren Schrader.

Left to cherish his memory are his children, Betty (Gordon) Grimes, Lillian Schrader, Morris Cree and Russell (Cheryl) Cree; grandchildren, Marcy Boyce, Crystal (Thomas) Hungerford, Darren Schrader (Kristen), Heather (Matthew) Mundion, Sarah Cree (Reece Terris), Laura (Jean) Dupin, Nicole (Brandon) Guild and Tiffany Cree; great-grandchildren, Alaina, Caleb, Lily, Luke, Leah, Matthew, Annalise, Clint, Loren, Emerson, Freya, Edda, Pierre, Matilde, Scarlett, Ethan and Keegan; two sisters, Noreen Cree and Mavis Etienne.

Calling hours will be held on Monday, Sept. 22 from 1-4 & 5-8 p.m. at the Oak Orchard Assembly of God Church, 12111 Ridge Rd., Medina. His funeral service will be held the next day, Tuesday, Sept. 23 at 1PM at the church. Interment will be in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to the Oak Orchard Assembly of God at the address above. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

Richard I. Vanderlaan passed away on September 9, 2025 at the age of 97.

Richard served in the US Army during WWII. He later retired from General Electric/Black and Decker.

He was predeceased by his wife, Phyllis G. Vanderlaan; parents, Jacob and Ruth Vanderlaan; and brother, Stanley (Katherine) Vanderlaan.

He is survived by his children, Rick Vanderlaan, Gary (Michele) Vanderlaan, Cindy Hayes-Low and Marlene (Jake) Sheetz; grandchildren, Shannon, Derek, Lynsay, Morgan and MacKenzie (Andy) Greene; several great and great-great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Richard’s funeral service will be held at Lakeview Cemetery, Sweden, NY on Sunday, September 21, 2025 at 11 a.m.

BARRE – Dale J. Spencer, age 81, passed away suddenly on September 12, 2025 at United Memorial Medical Center in Batavia. He was born June 11, 1944 in Lackawanna, NY to the late James and Charlotte (Winch) Spencer.

Dale was known as a very respectful man with strong Christian values. He was most recently an Elder at Albion Faith Fellowship Church and trusted God to lead him down the right paths in life.

Dale worked as a molding supervisor at Fisher Price in Medina for over 30 years. He also worked for Orleans County for many years, driving patients from the local nursing homes to their medical appointments. He was proud to have built their cabin in Holland, NY by hand and with trees taken from their property. He was always busy and enjoyed hunting, woodworking, carving and giving his grandchildren wisdom.

In addition to his parents he was predeceased by his daughter Tina Markle and brother Reginald Spencer.

Dale is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Beverly; children, Tammy (Todd) Graham and Todd (Millie) Spencer; grandchildren, Samantha, Julia, Miguel, Renaldo, Alonzo and Millie; 3 great-grandchildren as well as siblings, Rebecca (late Lee) Johnson and Gary (Jill) Spencer, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Dale’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 21 West Ave. Albion, NY 14411 on Friday, September 19th from 3 to 6 p.m. Dale’s memorial service will be held at the East Shelby Community Bible Church, 5278 East Shelby Road, Medina, NY 14103 on Saturday at 11 a.m.

Memorial contributions in Dale’s name may be made to Richard Knights/Sue Kaderli Memorial Fund, Inc. P.O. Box 684 Medina, New York 14103.

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

ALBION – Robert J. Gadsby, age 89, passed away September 8, 2025. He was born March 11, 1936 in Niagara Falls to the late Harold and Irene Gadsby.

Robert served in the US Army from 1955-1959 and worked as a NYS Trooper for 30-plus years.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife, Ursula.

Robert is survived by his children, Harold Gadsby, Maria Coccitti and Stephanie (Keith) Knaak; grandchildren, Emilie (Mark) Pittman, Erika (Christopher) Reed, Andrea (Tyler) Colonna, Mitchell Knaak and Alyson Knaak; great-grandchildren, Rhett Knaak and Nico Colonna.

Though Robert carried himself with a quiet, stoic nature, he had an undeniable soft spot for his grandchildren. He rarely missed a chance to support them, faithfully appearing on the sidelines of cheerleading, dance, soccer, softball, basketball, baseball and wrestling, often arriving before the teams themselves.

Behind the scenes, he was the steady hand making sure every child got to practice on time and never missed the chance to do what they loved. That same devotion defined his marriage to his beloved wife, Ursula. In the years before her passing, Robert faithfully cared for her, a reflection of the deep love they shared throughout their life together. His steady presence – whether as a husband, father, or grandfather – was a gift to his family, and the memory of his love and loyalty will always be cherished.

There are no prior calling hours. Robert’s memorial service will be held at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 21 West Ave Albion, NY 14411 on Friday, September 26th at 11 a.m. Interment with military honors will be held in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Albion.

Memorial contributions in Robert’s name may be made to Hospice of Orleans, 14080 Route 31 Albion, NY 14411 or Hands 4 Hope.

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

ALBION – It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Tyler W. Belcher, a cherished father, son, brother, uncle and dearest friend.

Tyler was born on April 26, 1995 to Jerry Belcher and Tracy Miller. He was a resident of Albion, NY and his second home in North Carolina where he loved to be as often as he could.

Tyler attended Albion High School. He worked at various pizzerias and loved door dashing. As many would say “he was the life of the party.” Tyler also enjoyed the outdoors, traveling (California was one of his favorite places), painting with his mom, cooking for his son, working out and most of all spending time and making memories with his family, friends and the variety of pets he had throughout the years.

Besides his parents, Tyler is survived by his beloved son Owen Belcher in which they share the same birthday; his sisters, Jennifer Belcher, Tricia (Kevin) Belcher and Chelsey (Daniel) Sawyer; his nieces and nephews that he cherished dearly; uncles, cousins and wonderful friends. We all will miss him tremendously and will always keep his memory alive!

Tyler is predeceased by his maternal grandparents, Lloyd and Nevelyn Miller; his paternal grandparents, Frank and Vera Nicometi; and his aunt, Donna Nicometi.

Family and friends please join us in a celebration of life for Tyler on Saturday, September 13, 2025 at 4 p.m. at Holley Falls in Holley, NY.

John William Prawel, 81, of Clearwater FL passed away on Friday August 22, 2025. John was born in Batavia NY on July 19, 1944 to Carlton J. and Blanche M. (Fish) Prawel.

He was the fifth of six children and grew up in Medina NY. John attended Medina High School and joined the US Navy at 17, serving from 1962-1965 on the USS Okinawa.

John was married to Dorothy Stump of Medina from 1966-1968. He was married to Carlyle VanAuker of Medina, from 1970-1978.

Following the Navy, he worked at Simon Saw and Steel from 1966-1983 in Lockport NY. As the steel industry declined, made a quick change of careers. He worked two jobs for many years, first as a small business locksmith owner and second as a bartender at the Basket Factory Restaurant in Middleport. Eventually landing a job in the maintenance department of the NYS Corrections facility in Albion, John worked from 1985-2006 while maintaining his locksmith business on the side. Once retired, he moved to Clearwater FL enjoying golf and gun range shooting regularly. He was a member of the Lockport Post #410 American Legion.

John was preceded in death by his parents and his five siblings, Phyllis, Carl, Mary Ellen, Evelyn and Albert (Chris).

He is survived by his devoted daughter, Jackie (Andrews) Hall and son-in-law, Jeffrey Hall of Tampa FL as well as his cherished adult grandchildren, Bradley (Lexie) Hall, Kimberly Hall, Jennifer Hall, and Matthew Hall. John also leaves behind many nieces and nephews whom he loved deeply. His beloved 20-year-old cat, Squirt, will feel his absence profoundly as well.

There will be a Mass for John at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 211 Eagle St. Medina, NY on Oct. 10 at 12 p.m. The burial (interment) will be immediately following the Mass at the WNY National Cemetery, 1254 Indian Falls Rd, Corfu, NY at 2 p.m. For those who would like to attend, there will be a social gathering at the American Legion, 305 N. Main in Medina at 4 p.m.

LAKE WALES, FL – Richard “Dick” A. Watson passed away peacefully with family by his side on August 29, 2025 at the age of 90. Dick was born May 10, 1935, to the late Robert and Doris Watson of Lyndonville, NY.

After graduation from Lyndonville High School, he joined the Army and loved his stint in Germany. Upon returning from the military Dick married the former Betty J. Blackman from Albion. Together they raised two sons, Michael and Steven.

Dick used to love stock car racing at Ransomville when he was younger and made many friends there. He was employed by Harrison Radiator in Lockport for 42 years and often said he would live to collect his pension for as many years.

After retirement Dick and Betty eventually moved to Lake Wales in Florida. They enjoyed many years of traveling in their RV and managed to travel through every state except Hawaii, of course.

He was predeceased by his wife, Betty J. Watson; brothers, Wayne Watson from Hesperia, California and Donald Watson from Medina, NY.

Dick is survived by sons, Michael (Ellen) Watson and Steven (Linda) Watson; grandchildren, Keith Watson, Alexandra Fisher, Kyle Watson, Arron Burton, Amber Burton, Amanda Murrieta and Angela Smith; 18 great-grandchildren as well as many nieces and nephews; sisters, Ruth Canham Hedges and Linda Watson; sisters-in-law, Carole Watson of Medina and Carol Watson of California.

A gravesite ceremony will be held at Millville Cemetery in Medina at a later date at the convenience of the family.

MEDINA – Louis E. VerCruysse, 75, of Medina, NY, entered into rest on Friday, August 29, 2025, at the Orchard Manor Nursing Home.

Born on July 28, 1950, in Albion, NY, he was the son of the late Edmond E. and Marilyn (Williams) VerCruysse.

Louis attended Albion Schools and worked as a mechanic at Botsford-Hartway, Lipton’s of Albion, NY. He also retired as a Warehouse Manager with the former Jubilee of Medina, NY.  In his spare time, he enjoyed watching television and caring for his dogs.

He is survived by his children, David and Crystal VerCruysse, both of Medina; 12 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. Also surviving are his two sisters, Ruth Leno of Medina, and Florencie Schaffer of Middleport; an aunt, Sharon (Steven Caldwell) Bacon of Medina; a sister-in-law, Veda VerCruysse of Albion; and his former wife, Dera Corderman of Medina.

Besides his parents, Louis is predeceased by a daughter, Angel; a son, Adam; his second wife, Judy; a brother, Robert; and his sister, Shelia Haynes.

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

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

Charles G. O’Brien Jr. “Jerry”, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 25, 2025, at the age of 93 with his family by his side.

Jerry was born on July 13, 1932 in Worcester, MA. The son of Charles G and Mary H (Palcius) O’Brien.

He served in the military at Fort Bragg, NC and went on to earn his Business Administration Degree from Syracuse University. He finished his career after 35 years as a Purchasing Materials Manager for Bernzomatic in Medina, NY. Always on the move Jerry enjoyed a wide variety of interests. He could fix or install almost anything. He also taught many family members the complexities of sailing, scuba diving and fishing. He was a true outdoorsman and loved camping, cooking and photography. Jerry was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church Lyndonville, NY.

Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife of 40 years Rita, his son Mark (Jennifer)

O’Brien, his daughter Karen (Mike) Tomko, and extended family, Virginia (Mark) Hughes, Vickie Wolfe, Terri (John) Lubahn, Michelle (Brad) Bokman, Roger (Sandra) Wolfe, Kathy Wolfe (Chris Noyes). He cherished his 33 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren.

The family wished to extend our thanks and deep appreciation to the physicians, nurses, and support staff of the North Wing, Medina Memorial Hospital. Their kind, compassionate and empathetic care meant so much to our family.

A private burial will take place at a later time.

Donations to honor Jerry may be sent to: Orleans Community Health, North Wing 200 Ohio Street, Medina, NY 14103; Oak Orchard Lighthouse Museum, PO Box 23, Kent NY 14477; Alzheimer’s Research www.alzfdn.org

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 Jerry at www.bogantuttlefunerals.com

ALBION — Dennis E. Smith, 83, passed away September 1, 2025.  Dennis was born May 11, 1942, in Geneva, NY, a son of the late Grover and Louise (Walker) Smith.  He had lived in Albion most of his life and was an active member of Renovation Lodge #97 F&AM, Order of the Eastern Star, Canal Side Chapter, the Albion Lions Club and the Active Hose Co. of the Albion Fire Dept.

Dennis was a former employee of the New York State Canal Corporation, Eastman Kodak Co., Owens Corning Fiberglass and a garage mechanic in Brockport.

Dennis is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Mary Lou Smith; son Tobee Smith of VA., daughter Karyn (Mark) Williams of New Braunfels, TX; grandchildren Cammeron (Kayla) Williams, Tristan (Sarrah) Williams, Kyle and Christopher Smith; great grandchildren Michael David Williams and Isla Williams; brothers Daryl Smith and Dale (Sue) Smith; several nieces, nephews, cousins.

No prior calling hours.  A Masonic and Eastern Star Service will be held Monday, September 22, 2025 at  2:00pm at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 21 W. Avenue, Albion NY 14411.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Renovation Lodge #97 F&AM or Eastern Star, 39 N. Platt St. Albion, NY14411 or the Albion Lions Club, 238 N. Main St. Albion, NY 14411.

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

Karl F. Schoch, retired mechanical engineer died on August 28 at age 100. He was born in Poughkeepsie, NY to parents Karl H. Schoch, a pattern maker at the DeLaval Separator Co., and Emma (Braun) Schoch, a homemaker.

After graduating from Poughkeepsie High School in 1943, he enlisted in the US Navy V-5 aviation cadet program and then transferred to the V-12 Navy College Training Program at the University of Rochester. He was commissioned an ensign prior to assignment to the Navy Supply School at Harvard University. He was discharged in 1946 and returned to the University of Rochester to complete his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering in 1947, elected to Phi Beta Kappa.

Mr. Schoch joined the General Electric Engineering Test Program in 1947, ultimately joining the General Engineering Laboratory in Schenectady, NY, which later became part of the Corporate Research and Development Center. Most of his career involved development of cryogenic and superconducting equipment, including gyroscopes, power transmission cable, electrical generating equipment, and magnets for magnetic resonance medical imaging.

He was a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, including service as chair of the Committee on Low Temperature and Arctic Region Heat Transfer in the Heat Transfer Division. He is a co-inventor of six issued patents and co-author of a number of publications and conference presentations related to cryogenics. He retired from GE in 1991 after 44 years of service.

Growing up in Poughkeepsie, Mr. Schoch and his twin brother, Emil, were enthusiastic members of the Poughkeepsie YMCA, working at Camp Wa Wa Segowea in Southfield, MA during the summers. They spent much time on the Hudson River, and bicycled from Poughkeepsie to the YMCA Camp, as well as from the YMCA Camp to Burlington, VT and back. On a different occasion, they bicycled from their home to the Delaware Water Gap and back. They lettered in track in high school, where both were pole vaulters.

Motorboating was his primary hobby throughout his life up to his early 90s. Most of his boating was in the Adirondacks and on Sebago Lake in southern Maine.

Mr. Schoch was a long-time member of the First Reformed Church of Scotia, serving as a consistory member in the early 1970s.

He was predeceased by his wife of 68 years, Mary Ellen (West), who was head of the reference department at the Schenectady Public Library in the 1950s. He was also predeceased by his brother, Emil.

He is survived by his son, Karl F., Jr. “Eric” (Deb) of Catonsville, MD, two granddaughters, one great granddaughter, and three nephews and their children.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 21 W. Avenue, Albion on Wednesday, September 10, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., followed by his funeral service at 12 p.m. Interment in Mt. Albion Cemetery with military honors.

Memorial donations may be directed to Smith Park, Inc., the non-profit currently operating Camp Wa Wa Segowea – www.campwawa.org/smith-park.

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

MEDINA – Allen E. Bell, age 88, of Medina, formerly of Lyndonville, NY, passed away on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 at the Medina Memorial Hospital.

Born July 22, 1937 in Newfane, he was a son of the late Mark and Clara (Corman) Bell.

Allen graduated from Lyndonville High School in the Class of 1956. On May 14, 1960 he married the former Corrine A. Munzel. The couple raised a family of three children in Lyndonville.

Allen worked for many years at Eastman Kodak and retired in 1991. Following retirement, Allen stayed busy volunteering at the Golden Hill State Park Lighthouse and also delivering flowers for Apple Blossom Florist in Medina. He was a longtime parishioner at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Lyndonville, where he served as trustee. He also belonged to the Masonic Lodge and was an outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing. Allen was known for his pleasant demeanor and friendly personality, which will be missed by all that knew him.

Allen was predeceased by his beloved wife, Corrine Bell in 2020; and six siblings, Phyllis Ward, Rosetta Napp, George Bell, June Green, Edgar Bell and Kenneth Bell.

Left to cherish his memory are his three children, Karen Davis, Kevin (Tina) Bell and Kristine (Paul) Gilhousen; eight grandchildren, Heather (Joseph) Dobucki, Jillian Barry (fiancé Jairus Martin), Andy (Brittney) Reed, Cameron Bell (fiancée Alexa Grandy), Luke Bell, Kyle Davis, Kimberly Hartwig and Nicholas Hartwig; five great-grandchildren, Ezra Dobucki, Maeve Martin, Maddox Martin, Weston Reed and Wyatt Lindemuth; a brother, RG Bell; a sister, Audrey Kenyon; also several nieces and nephews.

Allen’s memorial service will be held on Monday, September 8 at 11 a.m. at the Oak Orchard Assembly of God Church, 12111 Ridge Rd., Medina. Interment will be in Lynhaven Cemetery, Lyndonville. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

Mrs. Helen W. Gannon, 85, passed away on August 25, 2025, in Hospice care at Medina Memorial Hospital in Medina, New York.

A devoted nurse, loving mother and grandmother, and lifelong volunteer, Helen’s life was marked by compassion, dedication, and deep love for family and friends.

Born on June 25, 1940, in the Flatbush Avenue section of Brooklyn, New York, Helen was the daughter of Ernest and Anna Walther, both of whom emigrated from Europe seeking better lives in America. Helen learned the value of hard work early on, working in her father’s grocery store and helping raise her younger brother.

Helen was a Brooklyn Dodgers fan (until Dem Bums left New York in 1957). Staying true to Brooklyn, she became a Mets fan when the team was founded in 1962 and remained one to the very end.

Helen graduated from Hartwick College in Oneonta, New York, and became a registered nurse. She worked at Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown in many capacities over 34 years, but was proudest of her role as Head Nurse of Pediatrics and the love she gave to the children there. She later became a clinical instructor at BOCES and assistant supervisor at The Meadows Nursing Home in Otsego County. Through each position, Helen touched countless lives.

Helen married Truman Gannon in 1970, with whom she shared many years until his passing. Helen took great pride in her family and found immense joy in her granddaughters. She was predeceased by her husband Truman Gannon; her parents Ernest and Anna (Surin) Walther; brother Herman Walther; and half-sister Anna Surin.

She is lovingly remembered by her son Richard and daughter-in-law Shannon Welch; granddaughters Aubrey, Taya, and Kaylin Gannon; brother Ernest (Maureen) Walther; sister-in-law Virginia Walther; nephew Robert Walther; nieces Donna (Scott) Noll, Andrea (Josh) Long, Lara Smith, Stephanie (Robert) Morlino; and seven great-nieces and nephews.

Helen was a lifetime member of the VFW Auxiliary, the Native Daughters of Cooperstown, the St. Peter Lutheran Church Ladies’ Group, and served as Treasurer and Advancement Coordinator for Boy Scout Troop 1254 of Cooperstown. She also volunteered, knitting caps for newborns as well as patients undergoing cancer treatment, prayer shawls, and mittens for schoolchildren. Her hands were busy when there was someone to help or comfort.

Helen’s legacy will live on in the warmth she brought to those she cared for, as a nurse, as a friend, and as family.

The family wishes to extend their thanks to Medina Memorial Hospital, the Second Floor staff, and Orleans County Hospice for their support and graciousness. A memorial service will be held for Helen on September 28, 2025, at 11 a.m. at St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1355 West Avenue, Medina, New York.

Donations can be sent to her favorite charity, Mary Cariola (Children’s) Center: Walking on Sunshine (Team Taya), 1000 Elmwood Ave., Suite 100 Rochester, NY 14620 (or online at https://marycariolacenter.salsalabs.org/walkingonsunshine2025/t/teamtaya) in her honor.

OAKFIELD – On August 28, 2025, William (Bill) passed away with his beloved wife, Chloe, by his side in the comfort of their home.

Bill was born on March 4, 1936 to the late Frederick and Helen (Evans) Budenhagen. He grew up in Oakfield, NY and was a 1954 graduate of Oakfield Alabama High School.

He was predeceased by his younger sister, Suzanne Budenhagen D’Alba, his step daughter, Taryn Zigrossi Hilleges, and his step brother in law and sister in law, Charlie and Joan Mouquin.

Bill is primarily remembered as “The Pool Man” who owned and operated the successful Albion Pool Company for over fifty years. In his earlier days of employment, some Genesee County octogenarians may also remember him as the smiling young man in the red vest serving drinks behind the bar at the well know Steak House restaurant on West Main Street in Batavia, NY. At the same time he was also selling insurance for the Penn Mutual Company and working for a small Swimming Pool business in Rochester. It was at that time he decided to start his own company for which he designed and created his own version of a “well-built pool.” During the 1950’s and continuing throughout his retirement, Bill sold and built over 500 pools in the GLOW region and as far north as Massachusetts and as far south as Tennessee.

As pool construction was seasonal, Bill found a satisfying, successful pursuit during the winter months. He owned and trained Standardbred horses for harness racing for nearly a decade. The consummate “rescuer, make better-fixer,” he devoted time and attention and brought suspected “losers” to a winning status!

Over the years, Bill satisfied his need to design, create, construct, and refurbish, with purchases of local buildings, as well as his treasured three story barn in Albion. In the early 1980’s, he purchased the then empty Alex’s Tijuana Lounge and enjoyed converting it into the Batavia Pool and Spa Center. His next project venture was the purchase of the Oakfield Pharmacy. This had a special connection for him as it was his first job where he received his first paycheck. He was 14 years old. He enjoyed converting the upstairs dental offices into a rental apartment and office space. Bill’s third acquisition and the most dear to his heart was his beautiful barn on an acre of land. While maintaining its charm and historical value, he spent time upgrading the interior and it actually became Bill’s Giant “Man Cave!”  He enjoyed mowing the lawn there and maintaining and caring for his prolific producing asparagus and garlic crops which he happily shared with friends and family. Bill found pleasure in finding and refinishing many antique furniture pieces and almost annually he and Chloe would host busy, successful three day barn sales there.

In the late 90’s Bill and Chloe enjoyed extensive travel in and out of the country, many of which were shared with Chloe’s brother and sister in law. Most of the trips included numerous rounds of golf with attempts to play in as many states as possible. They were married on Captiva Island in the historic 100 year old Chapel by the Sea in 2001 and have been able to spend many fall months there which they referred to as their “Heaven on Earth.” In the winter, they spent time at their other favorite location on the Gulf of Mexico, the Ft. Morgan Peninsula in Alabama. They shared wonderful travel experiences and savored numerous endearing memories.

Along with his wife Chloe, with pride-filled love, Bill leaves his children Mark (Jeana’) of Garland, Texas, Troy (Jennifer) of Matthews, North Carolina, Tracey (Kenny) Pritt of Albion and Lorri and Jim Vagg of Kent; his grandchildren Corey (Tiffany) Daniels, Justine Daniels, Matthew Snyder (Abby), Megan Snyder (Justice), Chase Budenhagen,  Amanda (Kris) Wishon, and Emily Budenhagen (Ben); his great grandchildren Olivia, Wyatt, Ruby, and Lettie and several nieces and nephews.

Bill is also survived by his sister Barbara Meier; his brother in law Ron D’Alba and his sons Scott and Joel, his step daughters Bridgette Willis, Daryl Zigrossi Rubino (Brad Daily), his step son, Chip Zigrossi, and his step grandchildren, Andrew Zigrossi, Christian Rubino, and Sophia Rubino, and, his dearest canine companion, Charleigh!

The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the staff of Home Care and Hospice of Genesee County for their thoughtful and kind participation in Bill’s care. Special appreciation also to Dr. Joshua Jones for his continuing compassionate attentiveness to each of us as Bill progressed through the palliative hospice experience.

Bill had a heart of gold and his generous, kind and loving nature will be sadly missed.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at Bohm-Calarco-Smith Funeral Home, 308 East Main Street, Batavia, New York on Tuesday, September 2, 2025 from 3 to 5 pm. In lieu of flowers, those wishing are encouraged to make memorials in Bill’s name to either Home Care and Hospice of Genesee County, 29 Liberty Street, Suite 6, Batavia, New York 14020 or Twenty-Five Neediest Fund, in care of Nann Zorn, 12 River Street, Batavia, New York 14020.

To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in his memory, please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

BARKER – Nicholas J. Nicolia of Barker, NY, passed away peacefully on August 23, 2025. He was born in Middleport, NY on December 22, 1934.

Nick graduated from Barker School in 1952. He joined the Barker Fire Department in April 1963 and obtained his exemption papers in February of 1972. He continued providing services to the fire department for many years thereafter when called upon to help.

He worked with his father Joe (Nicolia Excavating) for many years. He continued the business on his own until he retired at the age of 75. He loved camping, fishing, hunting and watching Westerns but most of all spending time with his family.

He is predeceased by his beloved wife of 67 years, Sharon.

He is survived by his four daughters, Debbie (late Bill) Merrill, Peggy Nicolia, Sandy (Kevin) Branch and Joanne Hurtgam and his loving sister, Marilyn (Dominic) Condello. He is also survived by his six grandchildren, Jerry (Candy) Merrill, Julie (Shane) Gay, Nicholas Branch, Shelby (Nicholas) Watry, Jamie (David) Schwab and Kristina Hurtgam. He cherished his twelve great-grandchildren.

Thank you to the wonderful staff of the Niagara Hospice House that took exceptional care of our father.

Family and friends may call at the Rutland-Corwin Funeral Home, Inc. 2670 Main Street, Newfane, NY 14108 on Friday, August 29, 2025, from 5 to 7 p.m., with a service to immediately follow. A private burial will be held for immediate family only.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made and appreciated by our family to Niagara Hospice, 4675 Sunset Drive, Lockport NY 14094.

BARRE CENTER – Donald E. Seever, age 77, passed away August 23, 2025 at Strong Memorial Hospital surrounded by his family. He was born February 15, 1948, in Brockport, a son of the late William and Clara (Sanderson) Seever and had lived in this area since 1982.

Don was a member of the Albion First Methodist Church. He retired from General Motors in Rochester where he worked for many years. He loved animals, especially his dog Gloria Jean and cat Isaiah. Don enjoyed flowers and gardening, but most importantly he loved spending time with his family especially his grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brothers, Rodney and Ronald; and mother of his children, Judy Seever.

He is survived by his daughters, Tiffany (Steven) Crawford, Breeana (fiancé Barb Casavant) Seever; grandchildren, Hailey, Lindsay and Kelsey; siblings, Dale, Pat, Sandy, Jan, Debbie, Tammy and Wayne; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

His memorial service will be Thursday, August 28th at 1 p.m. at the Gaines Carlton Community Church, 14585 Ridge Rd W, Albion, NY 14411. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or Special Olympics New York, 1 Grove St #216, Pittsford, NY 14534.  Arrangements were entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Albion.

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

MEDINA – Barbara A. Kelley, of Medina, NY went to be with the Lord on Monday, August 18, 2025.

Born December 17, 1945 in Batavia, she was a daughter of the late Stillman and Betty (Trow) Farewell.

She was a graduate of Medina High School in the Class of 1964. Over the years, Barb worked on the kitchen staff for Medina Memorial Hospital, The Willows and at Orchard Manor Nursing Home. A woman of strong faith, she was a longtime and active parishioner of the First Baptist Church in Medina. Barb enjoyed doing crossword puzzles, crafts and reading.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Arnold Kelley, in 1996; brother, LaVerne Farewell, in 2022; and brothers-in-law, Steven Gerety and Thomas Lindheimer.

Survivors include her sisters, Elizabeth Gerety of Lockport, Nina Farewell of Florida and Anna Lindheimer of Hudson Falls, NY; sister-in-law, Elizabeth Farewell; four nieces, Brenda (James) Cherry, Rebecca (Steven) Cooley, Tammy Jenkins and Kim (Tom) Poole; great-nieces and nephews, Andrea Cooley, Steven Cooley, Haley Cherry and Aiden Cherry, Brett McMurray and Destiny Parslow; stepson, Tom Kelley; step-grandson, Robert Kelley; and several cousins.

Her viewing will be held on Wednesday, August 27 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the New Hope Community Church (First Baptist Church), 203 W. Center St., Medina, where her funeral service will immediately follow at 12 p.m. Interment will be in Bates Road Cemetery.

All are welcome to a luncheon held back at the church following the burial. Memorial donations may be made to the St. Joseph’s Indian School P.O. Box 100, Chamberlain, SD 57325 or www.stjo.org.

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

MEDINA – Bethony Ann Bradshaw (Stilwell), aged 71, passed away peacefully at home on August 19, 2025. A loving sister, wife, mother, and grandmother, she was a generous friend, and fierce nurturer of anyone in need.

Born on March 23, 1954, Beth was the oldest of four children born to Anthony and Beverly Stilwell. She met her husband, Chuck Bradshaw, in the early ’90s and it soon became a love that would last a lifetime, and beyond.

Beth worked various jobs, but is known to most for being a regular bartender at several of the local establishments throughout the years. She was often admired for her caring heart, generosity, and quick-witted humor.

At home, she was the matriarch in her circle of friends — the one who always cooked too much food for the occasion, hosted every holiday meal, and always made time to listen if you had a problem. She enjoyed gardening, cooking, and absolutely loved her animals.

Beth was predeceased by her husband, Chuck; her parents, Anthony and Beverly; and her beloved brother, Tom.

She is survived by her sons, Anthony “Jimmer” (Betty) Szatkowski and Andrew “Andi-Jo” (Sara) Szatkowski; stepchildren, Elizabeth “Ashley” (Chad) Gower, David (Amanda) Bradshaw, Ben (Jon) Bradshaw; seventeen grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind two sisters, Becky and Bonnie; several nieces and nephews; and a special friendship she shared with Cheryl Bradshaw.

Friends and family are invited to her calling hours on Wednesday, Sept. 3 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

MEDINA – Maria Distefano, of Medina, NY, entered into rest on Tuesday, August 19, 2025.

Maria, the daughter of the late Antonio and Concetta (Di Stefano) Furnari, was born March 27, 1940, in Braidi, Sicily, Italy. After a whirlwind romance, Maria married the love of her life, the late Philip M. Distefano, on October 11, 1958, in her hometown.

In 1959, at 19 years old, she bravely immigrated to the United States. The couple settled in Medina and lived their lives in the historic canal town.

Maria dedicated her life to caring for her family. She was a true matriarch and a loving mother and grandmother to her four children and her eight grandchildren, who were the light of her life. Food was one of her love languages, and she enjoyed cooking delicious holiday meals for the whole family—and did so well into her 80s. Maria will be remembered for her devotion to her family and her unwavering support and care for her husband, Philip, through his long battle with Parkinson’s disease.

Outside of her family life, Maria volunteered with the TWIG Association at Medina Memorial Hospital. It was in her nature to help people, and she regularly donated to the local food pantry. Maria was an active parishioner of Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church, and belonged to the Catholic Daughters of America.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her beloved husband, Philip Distefano, in 2003.

She is survived by her children, Joseph (Dorothy) Distefano, Anthony (Loraine) Distefano, Francine (Douglas) Johnston, and Lynnet (Scott) Millman; eight grandchildren, Emily (Aaron) Clough, David Johnston, Samuel Distefano, Jack (Courtney) Distefano, Joseph Distefano, Danielle Distefano, Alexis Distefano, and Isabella Millman; great-grandchild, Logan Clough; and siblings, Vincenzina and Vincenzo Furnari.

Her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, August 30, at 11 a.m. at Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church, 211 Eagle St., Medina. Interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are greatly appreciated to the Philip M. Distefano Library at the Oak Orchard Primary School, 335 W. Oak Orchard St., Medina, NY 14103. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

CLEVELAND – Denise Elaine (Morse) Best passed away on August 14, 2025, in her home in Cleveland, TN.

Survived by her loving husband, David Earl Best; brother, Harvey (Ruth) Morse; children Paul Best (Kendra), Aron Brew, and Eric Brew; four grandchildren; as well as cousin Norma (Shekell). Maslyn and several other cousins on the Morse side. Predeceased by her parents Harold Andrew Morse and Cynthia Olivia (Shekell) Morse; and brothers Harold Morse, Jr and Thomas Morse.

Denise grew up in Bergen, NY. Being the youngest and only girl in her family, she endured numerous pranks from her big brothers but embraced it with a fun-loving attitude. She was a 1970 graduate of Byron-Bergen Central School District, and thereafter worked in the factory, retail
and mortgage industries. David and Denise married in 1977, building a beautiful life together as they raised their family. In 2008, they moved to TN and quickly settled into southern living.

Denise loved people and saw the best in everyone. Her servant-heart touched countless lives. She poured her love into her family and was generously involved in her church. Denise’s good-natured and easygoing personality made her a joy to be around, brightening every room she entered.

In her spare time, Denise loved to serve others, read her Bible, listen to music, sing in the choir, bake (her Christmas cookies were delicious!), play golf with her husband, bowl, shop (for bargains and new gadgets!), and was fond of gems and jewelry.

Above all, Denise loved the Lord with great passion. She faithfully trusted in her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She could often be found with a cup of coffee in her home or on her porch, joyfully reading the Bible. Denise will be surely missed, but her loving, faithful, and servant-heart will forever be cherished as we hold the memory of this beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend.

As Denise once wrote: “Death takes the body. God takes the soul. Our minds hold the memories. Our heart keeps the love. Our faith lets us know we will meet again.”