Obituaries

MEDINA – Aeda Irene (Loring) Hill, 92, passed away on December 2, 2021. She was born on March 26, 1929 to Clair and Marie (Fisher) Loring in Palmerton, Pennsylvania.

Aeda grew up in the Palmerton area and attended school at Blairsville High School. Following her schooling, she was united in marriage to Raymond Hill on April 17, 1946. They made their home in Black Lake, Pennsylvania and later Medina, New York where they raised their children.

Aeda also worked for local farmers during the harvest, a bakery and a shirt factory. Raymond died in 1985. Aeda continued to live in New York until 1988 when she moved to Chokio, Minnesota to be closer to her son, Roger. She continued to live in Chokio until the time of her death.

Aeda enjoyed all crafts, cross stitch, and crocheting – especially afghans. Aeda spent time doing puzzles, sudoku, and adult coloring books and could often be found watching her soap opera, The Bold and the Beautiful. She liked cardinals and collected many figurines of them. Most importantly, Aeda cherished the time that she was able to spend with her family, especially on their family camping and fishing trips.

Aeda died on Thursday, December 2, 2021 at her home in Chokio.  She was 92 years old.

Aeda is survived by her children, Roger (Mary) Hill of Chokio, and Nellie (Jim) Breitkopf of Tucson, Arizona; two grandchildren, Amanda (Nick) Elms of St. Anthony and Sarah Hill of St. Paul; her sister, Jean (Gary) Shepherd of Blairsville, PA; and sister-in-law, Pat Loring of South Park, PA.

She is preceded in death by her husband; parents; grandson, Ted Hill; two brothers, Clair and Robert “Bobby”; and four sisters, Helen Irwin, Dorothy Lane, Stella Farabaugh, and Nellie Culbertson.

No local services for Aeda will be held and burial will take place at Bates Road Cemetery in Medina, New York at a later date.

Pedersen Funeral Home in Morris is in care of arrangements for Aeda.

Edward H. “Corky” Harling, 73, of Clarendon died Dec. 7, 2021 in Unity Hospital following a brief illness.  He was born Nov. 5, 1948 in Medina and was a life-long resident of this area.

Corky had worked for Rochester Products and Duryea Ford prior to opening up his own repair shop, Harling Auto Repair in Clarendon.  He enjoyed going to the casino and playing the slot machines, building custom trucks and especially travelling to Aruba where he could just nap on the beach with his toes in the sand.  Mr. Harling was predeceased by two sisters: Carol Skellon and Frances Herring.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Juanita; children: Gregory (Rachel) Harling of NC, John (Penny) Best of Jamestown, Kris Moore of Clarendon; grandchildren: Thomas, Brandi, Bradley, Joel, Dania, Nicholas; great-grandchildren: Noah, Joseph, Hudson; as well as several nieces and nephews.

There will be no calling hours and his services will be held privately at the convenience of the family.  Memorials may be made to a charity or organization of your choice.  Corky’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc. of Holley.

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

Richard E. Smith, 90, of Medina NY, went to be with the Lord, Dec. 2, 2021, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Born April 23, 1931 in Hilton, NY, he was the son of the late Boyd and Minnie (Hill) Smith.

Richard was born and raised in Hilton, NY, where he attended high school.  After high school, Dick was drafted by the U.S. Marine Corps, where he served during the Korean War.  PFC, Richard Smith, received a commendation from “The American Legion” for his commitment to serving in the Armed Forces in the name of Freedom and Democracy, and for courageously protecting our Liberty and Independence. He was a proud Marine through and through.

Dick married the love of his life, Judith Vangee, on Dec. 4, 1958 and they were married for 63 years and together they raised two children, Kim & Tim.  Dick was employed by General Motors for over 30 years. He was an avid sportsman and he loved hunting, fishing and boating. He also taught the Hunter Safety course for many years.

He accepted Christ as his savior at the Oak Orchard Assembly of God Church, where he served many years as a deacon and the church treasurer. He loved the Lord and he loved others. His quick wit would always put a smile on your face. He played the guitar and for fifteen years he would join others from the church and minister to the folks in the nursing home.  He was loved by all who new him and he will be sorely missed.

Richard is survived by his wife, Judy; children: Kim Barker and Timothy Smith, both of Medina, NY; brother, Sidney Smith of Hilton; grandchildren: Samantha, Richard, Andrew Nicholas, Kala, Jessica and Melissa; and three great-grandchildren.

Calling hours will be at Oak Orchard Assembly of God Church, 12111 Ridge Rd., Medina, NY, on Sat., Dec. 11, from 10-11 a.m. followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers Memorials can be made to the Oak Orchard Assembly of God Church.

ALBION – Gail C. Steier, 82, passed away December 4, 2021. She was born December 22, 1938 in Brockport, NY to the late Harvey and Bessie (Beedle) David.

Gail was an active member in the Gaines Carlton Community Church. She enjoyed baking with her grandchildren and was known for her delicious Christmas cookies.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, John Steier Sr. in 2011; brother, William “Bill” (Doris) David; sisters and brothers-in-law, Lorraine Freeman, Barbara Ann Hellmann, Raymond Steier and Mervin Thompson.

Gail is survived by her children, John (Susan) Steier, Jr. and Karen Steier; grandchildren, Clarissa, Evan and Annalise; brother, Mitchell (late Ruth) David; sisters, Frances (Barry Norsen) Thompson and Judy (Timothy) Hayes; sisters-in-law, Eleanor Thompson, Irene (Richard) Braley, Marie (Tom) Rigg and Shirley Steier; brother-in-law, Richard Hellmann; great-grand furbabies, London, Rory, Aspen, as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc., 21 West Ave., Albion, NY 14411 on Fri., Dec. 10, from 1 to 3 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. Her funeral service will be held at the Gaines Carlton Community Church, 14585 Ridge Rd., Albion, NY 14411 on Sat., Dec. 11 at 10 a.m. Interment will follow in Mt. Albion Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in Gail’s name may be made to the church.

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

BARRE CENTER – Donald B. Ross, 101, passed away December 6, 2021 at his home. Mr. Ross was born May 21, 1920 in Medina to the late Harold Vail Ross and Onalie (Bacon) Ross.

He graduated from Medina High School in 1939 where he was managing editor of the school newspaper. Following graduation, he attended Rochester Athenium and Mechanics Institute, which is better known today as RIT, Rochester Institute of Technology. After graduation from college, he married his high school sweetheart, the late Bernadine E. Axtell Ross on June 13, 1942.

He worked for Niagara Mohawk Power Company following his marriage and eventually went to GLF as the manager of Knowlesville. He then left GLF to manage Canning Factory in the Town of Barre where Don and Bernadine built their home in Barre Center. Finally, he purchased Albion Plumbing and Heating where he stayed until his retirement in 1985.

Donald was very involved in his community and fraternal organizations. He was a member, Past Deacon and Elder of the First Presbyterian Church of Albion, Past President and Treasurer for the Cobblestone Society and Museum, a member and Past Chairman of the Board and Past Treasurer of the B.P.O. Elks Albion Lodge #1006. Don was also Past Master of the F&AM Medina Lodge #336 (combined with the Cataract Lodge #295) now known as Towpath Lodge #1193, 32nd degree Mason, Past High Priest of the Medina Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, belonged to the Lockport Commandery of Knight Templar, a member of the Shriners and a Past President of the Lockport Shriner Temple, a member and Past President of the Ismailia Temple Shrine of Buffalo and a member of the Buffalo Consistory.

In his retirement Don and Bernadine enjoyed spending time at their cottage in the Thousand Islands.

Don was predeceased by his wife of 78 years, Bernadine Axtell Ross.

He is survived by his daughter, Deborah Onalie Ross; granddaughter, Avery Erin Ross (Matthew Johnson); great-grandsons, Ryan W. Grier and Lance Corporal Dawson E. Taylor; great-great granddaughter, Julianna Marie Grier; nephew, Charles Pettit and niece, Ann Pettit.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc. 21 W. Avenue, Albion on Wednesday, December 8, from 4 to 8 p.m., with a Masonic Service at 7:30 p.m. The family will also receive friends on Thursday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. followed by his funeral service at the funeral home at 1 p.m. Interment will follow at Boxwood Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Cobblestone Society and Museum, P.O. Box 363, Albion, NY 14411 or the First Presbyterian Church of Albion 29 E. State St. Albion, NY 14411.

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

MEDINA – Oretha Louise Askew, 85, of Medina, NY, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, December 5, 2021 at the United Memorial Medical Center, Batavia, after a short illness. Born on June 20, 1936 in LaGrange, GA, she was the daughter of the late Roosevelt and Iris (Lakes) Mitchell.

Louise is best known for her beautiful angelic voice. She sang in her high school Alma Mater and sang background for various artists who later became famous. On one of her birthdays, Paul Beasley of the famous Gospel Keynotes, called her to sing Happy Birthday to her. She loved her gospel Quartet spiritual music and was always singing, even in the shower. Most of all, her favorite singing was with her Pastor, Rev. Lambert Duncan. Each time they talked on the phone, she felt enriched and it made her day brighter.

Louise was a very religious woman and could quote the Bible with her eyes closed. She enjoyed her TV shows, Family Feud, America Says, True Crime Stories and the nightly news. She would totally ignore you from 6 to 7 p.m., until she was completely caught up with the world’s happenings. She was a onetime active member of the Orleans Community Gospel Choir, a former member of the Lord’s House of Albion, and a faithful member of the Glad Tidings Baptist Church, until recent health issues forced her to be home bound. Everyone from all over loved Ms. Louise; she loved God, her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Louise’s “daily phone calls” to her friends and family will be terribly missed. She had so many favorite gospel songs, but the one verse in particular from the song “God’s Got It” that says “God’s got you now in his arms and care, until we meet again” spoke to her.

Louise leaves to cherish in her memories, five daughters, Burnessa Conner of Medina, Faye Garris of Buffalo, Tonya (Jimmy) Delph of Toledo, OH, Evonne Askew of Ypsilanti, MI, and Stephanie Askew of Rochester; three sons, Carlos Lamar Garris of Rochester, and Wesley and Brandon Askew, both of Medina. Also surviving are 19 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and a host of many friends.

Louise is predeceased by her husband, Wesley Askew Sr., two grandsons, Jordon Askew and Marcus Garris.

Relatives and friends may call from Sat., Dec. 11 at 11 a.m. to noon at the Calvary Tabernacle Assembly of God Church, 11031 Maple Ridge Road Medina, NY 14103, where a Going Home Service will be celebrated at noon by Rev. Lambert Duncan. Burial will be in the Boxwood Cemetery, Medina, NY.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St. Medina, NY 14103. Please light a candle or share a memory of Ms. Louise at: www.bogantuttlefunerals.com.

ALBION – Rev. Sheryl L. Stewart, 72, passed away Dec. 4, 2021 at Strong Memorial Hospital.  She was born June 4, 1949 in Canada and had lived in this area for the past 12 years.

Sheryl was a retired RN and worked as a ward nurse at Manhattan Psychiatric Center for 3 years.  She worked in the medical department at Attica Correctional Facility for 12 years and the psychiatric department at Albion Correctional Facilityf or 5 years.  Sheryl was ordained in the United Church of Christ in Maine and served as an interim minister with two other ministers at the Gaines Congregational United Church of Christ in Albion.

She was predeceased by her mother Maxine Whipple Ferguson and several close friends.  She is survived by her loving husband of 30 years, Jaime; daughter, Wendy (Doug) Covert; granddaughter, Kristy; as well as other family members.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc. 21 West Ave. Albion on Fri. Dec. 10,  4-7 p.m.  Her Funeral Service will be held Sat., Dec. 11 at 11 a.m. at the Gaines Congregational United Church of Christ, 14023 Ridge Rd., Albion, NY 1441.  Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, 101 John James Audubon Pkwy, Buffalo, NY 14228.

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

MEDINA – Mark H. Poole, 54, of Medina, passed away on Sun., Dec. 5, 2021 at his home following a battle with cancer.

Born January 21, 1967 in Lockport, he was a son of the late Lawrence and Lilly (Spencer) Poole. Mark worked in grocery store management for many years. He was an avid fisherman. Mark also enjoyed riding his Harley and watching football and hockey.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Cassandra M. Poole; son, Brian Poole; daughter, Megan Poole; step-sons, Matt and Ethan Stonebraker; five siblings, David (Paula) Spencer, Bob (Naddie) Spencer, Shirley (Fred) Srock, Larry (Janet) Poole and Diane (Merle) Lay; also several nieces and nephews.

Per Mark’s wishes there will be no formal services. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com

MEDINA – Lena Willcox, 82, passed away December 4th at ECMC.  She was born October  25, 1939 in Susquehanna, PA daughter of Nicholas and Catherine (Pingarella) Napolitano.

Lena’s child-hood family moved to Endwell, NY where she grew up and eventually met her husband David E. Willcox Sr. where they were married on December 12th, 1964.  David and Lena spent most of their life together raising their family of four children on a dairy farm which started with a farm in Oxford, NY before moving in 1974 to  their dairy farm in Middleport.  They continued to live in the farm house for many years after selling the farm until recently moving to Medina in 2018.

Lena was a loving wife and mother and faithful member of the body of Christ attending Oak Orchard Assembly of God church in Medina for many years.

Lena was predeceased by her husband David Willcox Sr and daughters Cathy Bidell and Jennifer Willcox; granddaughter Heidee Peterson, and sister Anne Jackson.

She is survived by her children, David (Patricia) Willcox Jr, Toni (Nicole) Willcox, step-daughter Nancy (Mark) MacLaury, grandchildren Julia (Jeff) Robinson, Jon Willcox, Kim (Thomas) Wolf, Brian Bidell, Shane (Heidi) Willcox, Kylee Borden; several great-grandchildren; brothers Nick and Lou and sister Louise; and several nieces and nephews.

Although limited by various health issues in her later years of life, Lena’s love for God, children, grandchildren and friends remained strong through her continued prayers for them and the joy that she received from them and also brought to them as well.

A memorial service celebrating Lena’s life and home going will be held at Oak Orchard Assembly of God church in Medina on Friday, December 10th at 4pm.

MIDDLEPORT – Mildred “Millie” Reak Mufford, 98, passed away December 3, 2021 at Buffalo General Hospital. She was born August 24, 1923 in the Town of Shelby, a daughter of the late William and Eda (Schultz) Reak.

Millie attended grade school in Shelby and graduated from Medina High School in 1941. She worked for a short time at Murphy’s Department Store in Medina and at Harrison Radiator in Lockport. In her younger years, she loved to roller skate and met her husband, Harold Mufford at the roller-skating rink in Olcott.

On January 26, 1946, they married, Millie referred to herself as “just a housewife” but in reality, she was much more. She was a loving mother and wonderful cook and baker. Mille was a self-taught knitter, crocheter and crafter. She enjoyed knitting the most, and made many sweaters, mittens and slippers for friends and family. Millie hand pieced many quilts throughout her life which are treasured by her family.

She was on a women’s bowling league for many years and she and her husband enjoyed square dancing and playing cards with friends. In her later years, she still enjoyed playing cards and doing word searches, crosswords and jigsaw puzzles.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Harold Mufford; and brothers, Harold and Raymond.

She is survived by her children, Thomas Mufford, Ronald (Linda) Mufford, Linda (David) Kozubal, and Lisa (James) Logel; 6 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchild; brothers, Norman (Barb) Reak and Richard (Nancy) Reak; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family will receive friends at the Bates, Wallace and Heath Funeral Home, 38 State St. Middleport NY, on Thursday, Dec. 9, from 4 to 7 p.m. where her funeral service will be held Friday at 10 a.m. Burial will be in Hartland Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, 665 Elm St., Buffalo NY 14203.

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

MEDINA – Arnold B. Crosby, 79, of Medina, entered into rest on Thursday, December 2, 2021 at his home following a brief illness. Born September 9, 1942 in Medina, Arnold was the only child of George and Maude (Fidinger) Crosby.

He attended Medina High School and went on to serve in the U.S. Army from 1964-65. He married the love of his life, the former Barbara J. Ambrosia, on March 13, 1965. Arnold worked for many years in the meat department at Bell’s Supermarket in Medina. He then trained to become a welder and was employed at Harrison Radiator Division of GM in Lockport, where he retired from. Arnold enjoyed hunting and especially tinkering in his garage and working on his hotrod.

In addition to his parents, Arnold was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara Crosby, on April 27, 2020.

Survivors include his three children, Daniel Crosby, Charlotte Cavers and Noel Crosby; grandchildren, Brooklynn (fiancé Cole) Crosby, Caden Crosby and Carson (fiancé Deanna) Cavers; and one great-granddaughter, Sloan Violet.

Calling hours will be held on Monday, Dec. 13, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Masks will be mandatory. His funeral service will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 14, at 11 a.m. at the First Baptist Church, 203 W. Center St., Medina. Interment will follow in Millville Cemetery.

Memorial donations in Arnold’s memory may be made to Supportive Care of Orleans, PO Box 489, Albion, NY 14411. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

ALBION – Edward R. (Ted) Scharping, 96, died November 20, 2021, amongst his loving family at Martin-Linsin Hospice Residence. He was born September 8, 1925 in Albion, the son of the late Clayton C. Scharping and Alberta (Stockton).

Ted lived all his life in Albion and married his beloved wife, Helen J. (Chip) Stewart on October 30, 1948 at Christ Episcopal Church in Albion. They were married for 66 years until Chip passed away in 2014.

Ted is a US Navy veteran WWII, who attended Cornell University at age 17 and transitioned to a successful career in industrial engineering for a decade before becoming a commercial real estate broker, owning Scharping Realty for over half a century and never officially retiring. Ted and Chip enjoyed their membership in the Albion Lodge of Elks, where Ted was elected Exalted Ruler. Ted was also Town Supervisor for the Town of Albion, and was credited with defeating the unpopular proposal of a massive landfill project that would have had a large negative impact on the town and village. Ted was also instrumental in arranging public ownership of 35 acres of undeveloped Lake Ontario shoreline, preserving forever its natural beauty for all to enjoy.

Ted and Chip loved to travel, and enjoyed family trips all over the world. Ted even traveled to attend Pat and Jeff’s wedding in Spain at age 93!

Ted is survived by his loving children, Patricia Fay (Jeffrey) Geesing of Jerez de la Frontera, Spain, Scott Brian (Sharon) Scharping of Kendall; grandchildren; Tyler Miles (Amanda) Gopen and Cara Fay Gopen (who was Ted’s primary Covid-lockdown companion and later, caregiver), Megan Renee (John) Williams, Colleen Shannon (Cole) Hardenbrook; several great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and an entire community of friends.

The family will receive friends at a later time, at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, Albion, NY, followed with a Celebration of Ted’s Life held at the BPO Elks Lodge in Albion (future date to be determined.)

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorials to be made to Supportive Care of Orleans, PO Box 489, Albion, NY 14411.

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

Rita Alberter passed away Dec. 1, 2021 in Niagara Hospice. Born May 16, 1935 in Bellwood, Pa. she was the daughter of Walter and Pearl (Gensimer) Shunk.

The majority of Rita’s life was dedicated to her family and the Body of Christ. She was a member of Oak Orchard Assembly of God Church in Medina for many years, but has attended Living Water Community Church in Newfane through her last years.

Rita was predeceased by her husband of 63 years, Harry Alberter; daughter Janie (David) Regester; great-granddaughter Elise, and eleven siblings.

Rita is survived by her son, Daniel (Sandra) Alberter; grandsons: Joshua (Sarah), Jeremy (Karla), and Jed (Amanda); great-grandchildren: Ashley, Danielle, Matthew, Ethan, Ella, Giada, Michael, and Elliyanna; also several nieces and nephews.

The legacy of this amazing woman of God was the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. We rejoice about the celebration in heaven for all those who put their lives in the hands of Jesus!

Private graveside service will be held in Corwin cemetery.  Visit: pruddenandkandt.com

Ms. Edna Mae Richardson of Albion, NY entered into rest on Nov. 25, 2021. She was born on July 8, 1956 in Sumter, SC to Dorothy Spann and Joe R. Spann Jr.

She is preceded in death by her father, Joe R. Spann, Jr.; grandparents, Berdy Mae Richardson and “Sleepy” Richardson; brother, Charles Artis, and granddaughter, Monica Baylock.

She attended Kendall High School. Edna enjoyed spending time with family and her grandkids and treating their taste buds to her good old soul food that she often cooked; and if it was not soul food, it was crab legs.

She maintained a beautiful garden which she took great pride in; her thumb was definitely green! Edna also enjoyed being well-dressed. Everyone knew her fashion sense was impeccable; whether it be her hair color she often changed, or her stylish outfit, she owned it!

In her downtime, she enjoyed watching her favorite soap operas or a day of sitting by the lake and fishing. She was always caught cleaning – to the point you could eat off the floor.

Edna is survived by her mother, Dorothy Spann of Albion, NY; the love of her life, Stefon Smith of Albion, NY; dear children: Marvin Russ, Sr. of New York, NY, Sabrina Russ Campbell of Albion NY, Cassandra Lacey of Albion, NY, and Kalandra (Trevor) Blackwood of Houston, TX.

She will be deeply missed by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She also leaves to cherish, her siblings: Margaret Gaye Whitmill, Joe Spann, Ricky Spann, Loretta Spann, Anthony Artis, Melvin Artis, and Irene Artis; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and many relatives.

Family and friends may call Sat., Dec. 4 from 12-1 p.m. at the Shiloh Baptist Church, Albion, NY.  Where a Homegoing Celebration will be held at 1 p.m.

Please share condolences www.jerfh.com

Clifford C. Lacey passed away Dec. 1, 2021 in Niagara Hospice House.  Born March 3, 1931 in Middleport he was the son of Howard and Genevieve (Rumble) Lacey.

Clifford served in the U.S. Army from 1952-1954 and worked for E & M in Middleport for 28 years as a machinist and 21 years as a skilled tradesman for Harrison Radiator.  He also was a knife enthusiast making and selling custom-made knives.  Clifford also sold his knives all over the U.S.  He was also a member of the Randall Knife Club, the Knife Makers Guild, and Usual Suspects Network Case Collector’s Club and was a life member of the American Legion and VFW.

Clifford is survived by his wife of 30 years, Lucinda (Smith) Lacey; daughters: Cheryl (James Pinckney) Hoffman and Karen Carlton; grandchildren: Jill, Kurt, Nicole, and Melissa; six great-grandchildren.  He was predeceased by his siblings: Howard and Betty Lacey; and granddaughter, Jennifer Lacey.

Relatives and friends may call Sat., Dec. 4 from 1-3 p.m.  In lieu of flowers donations to Niagara Hospice, 4675 Sunset Dr., Lockport, NY 14094 would be appreciated.  Visit pruddenandkandt.com

Marlene B. “Marlee” Diehl, 74, of Albion passed away Nov. 29, 2021 at the Martin-Linsin Hospice Residence. She was born Dec. 14, 1946 in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada to the late William and Eleanor (Peart) Thompson.

Marlene was a very active member of the Albion Rotary Club, serving as past president and as the District Governor of District 7090 from 2016-2017. She devoted over 15 years of spreading the word of what Rotary is doing for the world and truly lived the Rotary principle of “Service Above Self.”

Marlee and her husband Bill enjoyed spending time together on their sailboat on Lake Ontario. She was a member of the Oak Orchard Yacht Club, and active in the First Presbyterian Church of Albion. More recently, she found a passion for coloring and folk art.

She is survived by her husband of 10 years, Bill Diehl; sons: Bill (Susan) McIntyre, Robert (Elizabeth) McIntyre; step-daughter, Laura (Doug) (Diehl) Price; brother, Carl (Debbie) Thompson; grandchildren: Andrew McIntyre, Samantha McIntyre, Andrew Rogers, Jenna Rogers, Matthew McIntyre, Lucas McIntyre, Aurora Tatum, Chaconne Tatum; great-grandchildren: Alannah, Chloe, Jaylynn, Grayson; as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

There are no prior calling hours. A memorial service will be held at the Albion First Presbyterian Church, 29 E. State St., Albion, NY 14411 on Sat., Dec. 4 at 2 p.m. A celebration of life will be held at a later date in Hamilton, Ontario, details to be posted when available.

Memorial contributions in Marlee’s name may be made to the Albion Rotary Club, PO Box 356, Albion, NY 14411; or the Rotary Club of Hamilton AM, Box 209, 423 King Street West, Hamilton, ON L8P 4Y1.

Marlee’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc. of Albion, NY.

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

Linda M. Santillo passed away Nov. 25, 2021 in Elderwood at Lockport.  Born July 16, 1945 in Medina, NY she was the daughter of Joseph and Josephine (Sevenski) Flower.

Linda worked for Montgomery Ward in Lockport from 1977-1995 where she was the Human Resource Manager.  She also worked at JB Computer from 1999-2018 where she was the Office Manager.  Linda enjoyed camping, traveling, boating and loved spending time with her family especially her grandchildren, who were her pride and joy and loved cheering them on at their sporting events.

Linda is survived by her husband of 57 years Ralph E. Santillo; daughters: Denise (Jeffrey) Artieri and Deanne (Michael) Mullaney; grandchildren: Gina and Erik Artieri, Monica and Joe Mullaney; sisters: Marilyn (Terry) Banazwski and late Dorothy Modlo; sister in-law Bunny Santillo; several nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends may call Thu., Dec. 2 from 4-7 p.m. in Prudden & Kandt Funeral Home, 242 Genesee St., Lockport.  A memorial mass will be celebrated Fri., Dec. 3 at 10 a.m. in St. John the Baptist RC Church, 168 Chestnut St., Lockport.  Visit pruddenandkandt.com.