Obituaries

CLARENDON – John Robert Flynn Jr., 67, entered into Heaven on January 28, 2025 after a five-year hard-fought battle with esophageal cancer.

Born on March 16, 1957, in Rochester, NY to John Robert Flynn Sr. and Jane (Train) Flynn, he lived most of his life in the Rochester area and Orleans County.

He was the middle of five children and the quiet, peacemaker of the family. A graduate of Greece Arcadia High School class of 1975, he attended RIT, graduated from MCC with an A.S. degree in Engineering Science, attended Syracuse University and graduated from GCC with an A.A.S. degree in accounting where he made the President’s List and was a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Fraternity.

John worked at various places in his life, most notably Crossroads Restaurant, Armored Motor Service of America (AMSA), Rochester Armored Courier Inc, VanPutte Gardens, and most recently he retired from Claims Recovery Financial Services LLC.

John was an avid deer hunter and gun enthusiast. He enjoyed watching skeet and trap competitions hoping to someday get back into shooting. A skilled Do-it-Himselfer, he worked on many home improvement projects in and around his house and enjoyed finding new ways to utilize materials especially in the vegetable garden in his more recent years. John loved to cook and trying new recipes. He was known for his culinary talents in the family. Big into research, he covered a wide range of interests and topics.

A quiet and reserved man until you got to know him, John was intelligent and a deep thinker, gaining much of his knowledge by reading which he did fervently. Once you got to know him and he let down his guard, he was a trustworthy and loyal friend for life. He had true integrity and treated everyone with kindness, respect and dignity.

He leaves his devoted and beloved wife of 45 years, Virginia Hart (Ginnie) Flynn; his brothers, Mark (Wendy) Flynn of Tucson, AZ., Stephen (Sheri) Flynn of Greece, NY., and Michael (Kimberly) Flynn of Hillsboro, OR; and a sister, Susan Flynn (Paul) Bortfeldt of Longmont, CO.

In addition, John leaves sister-in-laws, Carol Hart Mietsch of Ithaca, NY, Elaine Hart (Tim) Pottenger of Germantown, OH, and Marleen Line-Hart Saxton of Wayland, NY.

A beloved uncle, John leaves nieces Amanda Flynn of Rochester, NY, Tracy Flynn (Kevin) Smith of Tucson, AZ, Heather Flynn of Los Angeles, CA, Shannon Bortfeldt (Solomon Smith) of Arvada, CO, Erica Bortfeldt of Longmont, CO, Veronique Line-Hart Saxton of Cohocton, NY, Brettanie Line-Hart Saxton of Rochester, NY, and Nissa Pottenger (James Karanocious) of Tewksbury, MA. Also, John leaves nephews Tyson (Erin) Pottenger of Newark, OH, Kyle Bortfeldt of Erie, CO, Colin Flynn of Rochester, NY, and Dylan Flynn of Greece, NY. He also had three great-nephews and three great-nieces.

A life-long cat lover, he leaves his much-loved Cameron and Chiana.

A remembrance of John will be held at the family’s convenience at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the following organizations in John’s memory: Wilmot Cancer Institute, (Interlakes Oncology and Hematology, P.C.), Esophageal Cancer Education Foundation P.O. Box 821 Manalapan, NJ. 07726, or Best Friends Animal Society.

John’s arrangements are in the care of Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, 21 W. Avenue, Albion, NY.

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

MEDINA – Edison William McKeever, 85, of Medina, NY, formally of Lockport, NY, entered into rest on Monday, January 27, 2025, at United Memorial Hospital, Batavia, NY.

He was born January 6, 1940 in Lockport, NY, and worked at Western Block, Corson manufacturing, Cornell Cooperative Extension and The Union Sun. He loved all dogs especially his dog Cooper, going fishing, bowling and sitting outside with a cup of coffee. He was always quick with a joke and would keep you laughing.

He was predeceased by his wife Joanne Chapman McKeever, his parents and all of his siblings. Beloved father of Dennis (Sue) McKeever, Marilyn (David) Wilson, David (longtime friend, Shelly McAdoo) McKeever, and Todd McKeever (Michael Kauffman). Grandfather to Scott Wilson, Brandon (Kristi) Wilson and Glenn (Kathy) McKeever, Step Grandfather to Anthony (Samantha) Giambattista, Robert (Jennifer) Giambattista and Great Grandfather to Brooklyn Wilson, and Step Great Grandfather to Ian and Izzie Cooke, Liam, Adriana & Lorenzo Giambattista.

There will be no prior visitation. Private interment will be in Cold Springs Cemetery at the family’s convenience.

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

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

MIDDLEPORT/LYNDONVILLE – Janice E. “Noonie”  Lasal, age 95, died January 27, 2025 in Strong Memorial Hospital following a long illness.  She was born November 1, 1929 in Newstead, New York to Lloyd and Ellen (Kaegebein) Harrington and had lived in this area most of her life.

Janice was a member of the Lyndonville United Methodist Church, the Medina Hospital TWIG, the home Bureau, the Empire State Quarter Horse Association and was a 4H Leader for the Somerset Horse Group.  She was an avid reader, enjoyed sewing, crocheting, quilting and loved to bake.  Janice made numerous wedding cakes and special occasion cakes for family and friends over the years out of the kitchen in her home.  She also crocheted countless blankets for the babies born at Medina Hospital and also to be sold in the gift shop, prior to the delivery wing closing.  Mrs. Lasal was predeceased by her husband Robert, 3 brothers: Roger, Richard and Douglas Harrington, and 4 sisters: Beth Knight, Norma O’Brien, MaryLou Krish and Ellen Previte.

She is survived by her children: James (Terace) Lasal of Albion, Eileen (Jeff) Voak of Pittsford, Keith (Tanya) Lasal of Lockport, Linda McCauley of Churchville, her brother: Ronald (Patricia) Harrington of CA, her sister: Elaine (Lee) Seymour of VA, her grandchildren: Ryan, Lindsay, Amanda, Hattie, Adam, 5 great-grandchildren as well as many nieces and nephews.

There will be no calling hours.  Family and friends are invited to attend Noonie’s Memorial Service on SATURDAY MARCH 29th at 11am in the Lyndonville United Methodist Church.  Private interment at the convenience of the family will be in Royalton Mountain Ridge Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Heart Association, 25 Circle St., Rochester, NY, 14067.  Janice’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Bates, Wallace & Heath Funeral Home of Middleport.

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

MEDINA – Kenneth “Kenny” Draper, age 89, passed away peacefully January 27, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Kenny enjoyed wrestling, football, and spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. He loved playing cards with his beloved wife, Loretta.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife Loretta in 2020; favorite sister, Christine; sisters-in-law, Kathleen Denny and Shirley Denny; brother-in-law, Lee Denny; and son-in-law, Robert Schuck.

Kenny is survived by his loving children, Tammy (Raymond) Chase, Bonnie (late Robert) Schuck, Sandra (late Doug) Sitzer, Jeffery (Susan) Luxon, and Terry (Tammy) Luxon; brother-in-law, Melvin Denny; and several grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Kenny’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 21 West Ave. Albion, NY 14411 on Thursday January 30, from 4 to 7 p.m.

Memorial contributions in his name may be made to Orchard Manor Activity Fund, 600 Bates Rd, Medina, NY 14103.

Kenny’s family would like to thank Orchard Manor for the tremendous and loving care given to him over the last few years with a special appreciation to Val and Michelle.

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

MEDINA – Sandra M. Dunn, 68, of Medina, NY, entered into rest on Sunday, January 26, 2025, at the Erie County Medical Center after a long illness.

She was born in Canada on May 28, 1956, and at an early age, she came to New York and settled in Medina as a teenager. Sandra was employed at various jobs, including Fisher-Price and Atwater Foods. In her spare time, she enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

Sandra is survived by her husband of 40 years, Joe Newton; children, Marie Dunn, Michael Dunn and J.J. Newton; 13 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren; her siblings, Floyd (Julie) Staats, Angie (Sam) Saalwaechter, Bernice Staats and Randy Staats; and many nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends may call from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St., Medina, NY 14103, where a memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Burial will be private for the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Sandra’s name to National Kidney Foundation, 30 East 33rd St. New York, NY, 10016 or online at: donations@kidney.org.

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

Predeceased by her parents, Jeanne and William Mykins. Her grandmother, Charlotte Stubenrod.

Survived by her loving husband, Ralph Pugh of 49 years in marriage. Daughter, Kristin (Patrick) Via. Son, Jason (Anne) Pugh. Grandchildren, Ethan, Norah, Austin, Tyler and Sterling. Brother, Rick (Peggy) Mykins. Several nieces, nephews and dear friends.

The family will receive friends Saturday February 8, 2025, 12 to 3 p.m. at New Comer Cremations and Funerals, 2636 Ridgeway Ave. A funeral service will follow visitation at 3 p.m. Interment is private.

In lieu of flowers please donate to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

MEDINA – Colleen R. Young of Medina, NY, entered into rest peacefully on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at the age of 76.

Born August 17, 1948, in Medina, Colleen was the daughter of the late Eugene W. and Ruth A. (Plumley) Hungerford.

She is survived by her loving husband, Russell D. Young of Albion; children, Scott (Lynda) Young of Tonawanda and Danell (Edmund) Vandegenachte of Albion; grandchildren, Jared Vandegenachte, Ashley (Jackson) Vandegenachte-Narburgh, Chantel Vandegenachte (Cameron Archuleta), Nina (Shaun) Gilhousen, Andrew (Marissa) Ceniccola, and Katelynn Young; a sister, Maureen (Robert) Martin; brothers, Harry and Mark (Renee) Hungerford; a dear friend and companion, David Wasnock; as well as several great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held on February 8, 2025 from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Alabama Full Gospel Church , 5329 South Gravel Road, Medina, New York 14103. The service will be lived streamed and can be accessed from Scott R Young’s Facebook page. A reception will be held immediately following the service in the church’s fellowship hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to PAWS of Orleans County, Hospice of Orleans County, or the American Cancer Society.

ALBION – Lisa A. Wilson, age 48, passed away January 25, 2025 at her home with her husband, 2 sons and three beloved dogs by her side.

She was born April 20, 1976, in Batavia, a daughter of the late Gary and Susan (McKenna) Kingsbury and had lived in this area all of her life.

Lisa graduated from Albion High School in 1994 where she played volleyball, basketball and ran track. She graduated from Brockport University with an associate’s degree in English and her bachelor’s degree in math.

She worked at ESL Bank in Rochester for several years. She was involved in many different ventures, selling Avon, 31 Bags and Created Memories. She enjoyed crocheting, knitting, scrap booking and taking pictures.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her brother-in-law, Scott Wilson.

Lisa is survived by her husband of 25 years, Chad; her sons, Damian Wilson and Drake Wilson; brother, Todd (Lia) Kingsbury; father-in-law, Donald (Julie) Wilson; brother and sisters-in-law, Kristin Wilson, Steven Wilson, Kimberly Wilson as well as several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, 21 W. Ave. Friday January 31st from 4 to 7 p.m. where her Celebration of Life Service will be held Saturday at 2 p.m. Her burial will be in St. Joseph’s Cemetery at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Stroke Association, 7272 Greenville Ave., Dallas, TX 75231.

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

ALBION – Norbert “Mort” Morton, age 70, died January 23, 2025 in Rochester General Hospital following a long illness. He was born September 30, 1954 in Albion to Adolph and Mary (Noreck) Morton and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Mort was an Eastman Kodak retiree, a member of Holy Family Parish and belonged to the St. Mary’s Athletic Club and the St. Mary’s Archer’s Club. He enjoyed campfires, fishing and was an avid Buffalo Bills fan. Above all, Mort was a dedicated family man and homebody and loved spending time with his grandchildren.

Mr. Morton was predeceased by his parents, his step-father Joseph Craddock and a brother Donald.

He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Linda; his daughters, Theresa (Kyle) Kebaugh of MD and Sarah McCormick of Albion; his grandchildren, Mary Grace, Kendall, Kasen and Hannah; his brother, Peter (Linda) Morton of CO; brother-in-law, Larry Kurzawski; sisters-in-law, Helen Morton and Patricia (David Ward) Kurzawski; as well as several nieces and nephews and his beloved dog “Ellie”.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 21 West Avenue-Albion, on Wednesday, January 29, from 5 to 7 p.m. and Thursday, January 30, from 10 to 11 a.m. where his funeral service will follow visitation at 11 a.m.

Private interment will be held at the convenience of the family in St. Joseph’s Cemetery. To share a special memory of Mort, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

SPENCERPORT – Shirley A. Steier, age 91, died peacefully January 25, 2025 in a place which is surrounded by and amidst the beautiful lilacs of Highland Park. She was born April 8, 1933 to Sherman and Ruth (Barber) Kidney in Orleans County.

Shirley was a member of the Spencerport United Methodist Church, and was an avid bird watcher. She enjoyed gardening, sewing, camping, travelling and was an avid Syracuse Orange and Buffalo Bills fan.

Mrs. Steier was predeceased by her husband, Raymond; a son, James Steier; and brothers and sisters, Dorothy, Gerald, Elizabeth, Richard and Donald.

She is survived by her children, Stephen Steier of Spencerport, David (Donna) Steier of Rochester, and Patti (Ray) Goodwin of NC; her siblings, Mary Reabold of Albion, Carol (Russell) Pritchard of Ridgeway, and Sandra Fields of Medina; 6 grandchildren, several great grandchildren, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 21 West Avenue-Albion, on Saturday, February 1, from 10 to 11 a.m. where her funeral service will be held at 11a.m. following visitation. Interment will follow in Mt. Albion Cemetery.

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

ALBION – James A. Miller, age 83, passed away peacefully at his home on January 22, 2025.  He was born April 8, 1941 in Albion, a son of the late Albert and Cecile (Richards) Miller and had lived in this area for most of his life.

Jim served in the US Army. He was a member of St. Joseph’s Church and in his younger years served as an altar boy. He enjoyed bowling and had bowled in a men’s league in Hilton and Albion.

He also enjoyed fishing, hunting, snowmobiling and golfing, where he and his buddies would take trips to NC to golf.  Jim loved bird watching, all the cats he owned and his golden retriever Dallas.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife Annie Soule and brother Tom (Lorraine) Miller.

He is survived by his son David (Laura) Miller; grandchildren Elizabeth (Landon) Klopfenstein, Nathan and Carsten Miller; great-grandchildren Kash and Georgia; sister Jean Hobbs; special caring friends Shirley Smith and Richard Spencer as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

There are no prior calling hours.  His graveside service with Military Honors will be held at Mt. Albion Cemetery at a date to be announced.  Memorials may be made to P.A.W.S. Animal Shelter, 3371 Gaines Basin Rd., Albion NY 14411 or Lollipop Farm, 99 Victor Rd., Fairport NY 14450. Arrangements have been entrusted to Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Albion.

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

WATERPORT – Deborah E. Ricci, of Waterport, beloved wife, daughter, mother and grandmother, was called to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday, January 23, 2025 at the age of 56.

Born June 11, 1968 in Rochester, she was the daughter of Joyce (Chrysler) Milleville and John Milleville.

A person who possessed deep empathy and compassion, Deborah had an accomplished career in mental health and addiction counseling. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University at Buffalo and went on to earn her master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from SUNY Brockport. Deborah worked as a Licensed Addiction Counselor for GCASA in Albion for many years, then as a Mental Health Counselor at BestSelf in Buffalo. Shortly thereafter, she accomplished her professional dream by opening her own practice here in Medina as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor.

She married the love of her life, Peter Ricci on April 7, 1999 and lived in Orleans County since 2000. Deborah was a person of strong faith in Jesus Christ. She loved being with her family, taking long car rides, and spending time outdoors. As an animal lover, she loved taking her children and grandchildren to the zoo. Deborah was a life-long learner and an avid reader.

In addition to her parents, she is survived by her husband, Peter Ricci; children, Christopher (Melissa) Milleville, Derek (Elliana) Milleville, Brianna (Tyler) Herman and Evan (Ashley) Milleville; cherished grandchildren, Wyatt, Lilly, James, Benjamin, Mia, Annaliese and Clara; several aunts, uncles and cousins; and special friend, Julie Dennis.

The family would like to express their gratitude to the Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital, The Vine WNY Church, Carlton Vol. Fire Co., and St. James Lutheran Church for all of their loving care and kindness during this difficult time.

An hour of visitation will be held, followed by a memorial service on Saturday, Feb. 1, from 12-1 p.m., service at 1 p.m. at The Vine WNY Church, 11031 Maple Ridge Rd., Medina, NY 14103. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral home, 215 W. Center St., Medina.

Memorial donations may be made to Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center at www.roswellpark.org or to the Buffalo City Mission at www.buffalocitymission.org.

Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

MEDINA – Joanne V. Clark-Parry, of Medina, NY and Palm Bay, FL, entered into rest on Wednesday, January 22, 2025 at the age of 85 following a short illness.

Born on August 19, 1939 in the Town of Riga, she was a daughter of the late Jacob and Ruth E. (Blaker) Vanderstow. Joanne grew up in Bergen and graduated from Byron-Bergen High School in 1957. She raised her children in Hilton, NY. Joanne moved to Greece while working for DuPont in Rochester as a medical secretary until they closed. In retirement she enjoyed golfing, water aerobics and was a fan of the Buffalo Bills. Joanne often shared about her trips to the super bowl to watch her beloved Bills in their “Glory Days”. She could be found decked out in her Bills gear, scotch and water in her hand.

In 1993, her sister Peggy set her up on a blind date at a summer picnic. She met George W. “Bill” Parry, Jr. that day and the rest was history. They spent their time between their homes in NY and FL. Eventually they married in July 2009 and moved to Palm Bay full time and enjoyed making new friends and connecting with extended family in the area. In June 2024, begrudgingly, with the help from their beloved Pastor Kenneth (Zulma) Torres, they returned to the cold NY weather, due to declining health and to be closer to family.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by a sister, Margaret “Peggy” Overholt in 2003.

Left to cherish her memory are her husband, George W. Parry, Jr.; sons, David Clark of IL and Michael (Kelly) Clark of Hilton; stepchildren, Julie (Dan) Caleb of Lyndonville, Kathleen Agnello of Alfred and Stephanie (Chris) Wendell of VA; grandchildren, Shane Clark, Marisa (Erik) Hartman, Bret Clark, Carter and Ella Clark, Meghan and Brian Clark; step-grandchildren, Marie (Dennis) Phillips, Faith Agnello Acton, Anna and Emma Agnello, Hayden and Addison Wendell; she was blessed with 8 great-grandchildren with their blended families; sister, Betty (Lee) Putney; brothers, George (Alice) Vanderstow and William (Bill) Vandersatow; brother in-law, Patrick (Karen) Parry of Williamsville; along with many nieces and nephews including her niece and caregiver, Roxane (Paul) Mann and her children/extra grandchildren, Kyle Morgan and Justin (Shannon Stephenson) Morgan; and special friends, Ginny (Dave) Kirch of Livonia.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date for this summer and interment will be in Boxwood Cemetery, Medina. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Veteran’s Church, 530 Ruth Circle, West Melbourne, FL 329004 or the Alzheimer’s Association WNY Chapter www.alz.org/wny. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

OGDEN –  January 20, 2025. Gerry is predeceased by his parents, Stanley & Agatha Daniels, brother, Stanley Daniels, Jr. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Rebecca (Passarell) Daniels; children, Adrian (Jordan) Daniels, Caitlin (Anthony) Marchillo; grandchildren, Julian Daniels, Brady Marchillo, & Nolan Marchillo; sister, Adrienne Daniels; sister-in-law, Angie Daniels; several nieces, nephews, cousins & dear friends. For more information visit www.bartolomeo.com

Gerry’s life story will be shared during his visitation at the funeral home, 1411 Vintage Lane (Between 390 & Long Pond Rd.) Friday, January 31st, 2-4 & 6-8 PM. His funeral mass will be celebrated, Saturday, February 1st, 10 AM at St. John the Evangelist Church, Martha St., (Spencerport). Immediately following, he will be laid to rest in St. John’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to, Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 20, PO Box 12580, Rochester, NY 14612 in his memory.

MEDINA – Diane L. Farrell, of Medina, NY entered into rest on Monday, January 20, 2025 following a long illness.

Born September 25, 1949 in Lackawanna, she was a daughter of the late Floyd Blount and Wilma (Thom) Kurdziel. Diane grew up in the Medina area. She married the late William J. Farrell on August 17, 1974. The couple resided at their home on Hellert Road ever since. Diane worked for Fisher-Price Toys for many years until it closed. She then worked for other factories, including Bernzomatic until her retirement. Diane loved shopping and antiquing. She was a great cook and loved to bake. She also enjoyed traveling. Diane loved being outside in the sun, having her “Sunday Fundays” and spending time with her family and her beloved dog, Chloe.

Diane was predeceased by both her parents and stepfather, Henry Kurdziel; her husband, William Farrell in 2024; grandson, Dawson Doran; and half-sister, Carol Brown.

Left to cherish her memory are her three children, Jack (Tawnya) Doran, Tammie (Ronald Jr.) Washak both of Medina and Nora Farrell Seaman of Middleport; grandchildren, Hallie Seaman, Ethan Brown, Tyler (Crystal) Luckman and Meadow Washak; several nieces and nephews; and her dog, Chloe.

Interment will be privately held at the convenience of the family in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Medina. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Knights-Kaderli Memorial Fund, PO Box 684, Medina, NY 14103 or to Roswell Park Cancer Institute at www.roswellpark.org. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

ALBION – Stephen “Steve” Ugorek, age 75, passed away peacefully at his home on January 18, 2025, surrounded by family. He was born October 28, 1949, in Albion to the late Raymond and Elizabeth (Garrod) Ugorek.

Steve was deeply involved in his community, generously giving his time and talents on countless occasions. A proud Vietnam Veteran and a 4th Degree member of the Knights of Columbus, Steve exemplified dedication and service.

He retired from Delphi Harrison/General Motors in Lockport, NY, after a distinguished career. In retirement, he embraced his passions for golfing and traveling, dedicating his efforts to organizing group tours with the Orleans Travel Bureau. Steve was a devoted member of Holy Family (St. Joseph’s) Church in Albion, NY, where his faith and community spirit shone brightly.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife Anne in 1993 and his brother James in 2002.

Steve is survived by his loving partner of 18 years, Sally Lusk; sons Michael (Patricia) Ugorek, and Brian (Nicole) Ugorek; grandchildren Anne and Samuel Ugorek; grandcats, granddogs, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Steve’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 21 West Ave. Albion, NY on Wednesday, January 22, from 4 to 8 p.m. His Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Joseph’s Church, W. Park St., Albion, NY 14411 on Thursday, January 23, at 10:30 a.m. Interment with military honors will be held at Mt. Albion Cemetery.

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

MEDINA – Nancy E. Howell of Medina, NY, entered into rest peacefully on Thursday, January 16, 2025.

Born January 10, 1943 in Batavia, she was a daughter of the late Howard F. and Helen (Weldon) Smith.

Nancy was married to the late Gerald E. Howell on September 30, 1961.

Early on Nancy worked as a baker at the Clifford Wise Middle School in Medina. She then worked for Fisher-Price Toys and finally for Bernzomatic, where she eventually retired. Nancy enjoyed playing cards, especially poker and traveling with her daughter Kelly.

She was thrilled to experience her very first motorcycle ride after coming home from a recent hospital stay. Her family looks forward to giving her a second and final ride this summer when they host a celebration of life. Above all, family meant everything to Nancy, whom she loved to spend time with, especially at large family gatherings. She will be dearly missed.

In addition to her parents, Nancy was predeceased by her husband, Gerald Howell in 1999 and two sisters, Shirley Alger and Charlene Seitzer; and sons-in-law, John Jenks and David Blanc.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughters, Brenda Jenks of Knowlesville and Kelly Blanc of Medina; extended children, Juanita Jenks, Andrew (MJ) Jenks, Sondra (Aaron) Aman and Dawnette Halm; grandchildren, Daniel Williams II and Jennifer Inguagiato; great-grandchildren, Christen, Daniel III and Dylen Williams, Erianna Hernandez, Jocelyn Cutler and Katelyn White; sister, Jean D’Lallo; and several nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 21 from 4 to 6 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina, where her memorial service will immediately follow at 6 p.m. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date for this summer and interment will be in Hillside Cemetery, Holley.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to Hospice of Orleans at www.hospiceoforleans.org. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

MEDINA – Michael P. Szulis, 72, of Medina, NY, entered into rest on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at his home.

He was born on February 27, 1952, in Medina, NY, the son of the late Kasmier R. “Mike” and Beatrice E. (Whitney) Szulis.

Mike graduated from Medina High School in 1970 and attended Ohio Tech. He married the former Judy Cogovan on July 31, 1976, and they raised two children together. Mike was employed for 43 years as a Maintenance Electrician with FMC of Middleport, NY, retiring in 2016. He served as past President of The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers Local 2741 and was a member of the Niagara-Orleans Labor Council. He also served on the Board for AYSO Soccer. Mike was a lifelong Communicant of St. Mary’s Church and was a member of the Knights of Columbus, Medina Council #651, and also served as a Fourth Degree member for St. Joan of Arch Assembly 0717. In his spare time, Mike enjoyed traveling, anything to do with classic cars, and spending time with his grand dogs.

Mike is survived by his wife of 48 years, Judy; children, Michelle (Cory) Lewis of Medina, NY, Raymond (Nic) Ruby Szulis of Columbus, Ohio, a sister, Dawn (Robin) Root of Albion, NY, also several nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews and his partner in crime, Gracie Cogovan. Also, his brother and sisters-in-laws, Pam (Gerry) Gray of Lockport, NY, David (Tiffany) Cogovan of Industry, PA, Shawn (Michaelene) Prest and Kim Cogovan, all of Medina, NY, and an uncle, Don (Crystal) Luxon of Basom, NY.

Relatives and friends may call on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, from 2 to 4 PM and 7 to 9 PM at the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St., Medina, NY 14103. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, 11:00 AM, at Holy Trinity Parish/St. Mary’s Church, Medina, NY. Burial will be in the St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Instead of flowers, memorials may be made in Mike’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association/Western NY Chapter.  www.alz.org/wny

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

HOLLEY – Elizabeth (Gifaldi) Prieto of Huntersville, NC, formerly of Holley, NY passed away December 3, 2024 at home surrounded by her family after a 2-year battle with melanoma. She was born April 21,1982.

She is predeceased by her grandparents, William Buell, and Frank and Marion Gifaldi.

Lizzie is survived by her loving husband of 6 years, Kristopher Prieto, and her precious son, Luca. She is also survived by parents, Rich and Roxane Gifaldi; brothers, Rich (Maggie) Gifaldi and Francis (Crystal) Gifaldi; grandmother, Margaret Buell; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Lizzie graduated from Holley Jr./Sr. High School in 2000. While in school, she participated in dance, pageants, cheerleading and musicals, receiving many awards. She graduated in 2004 with a Communications degree from Wingate University, Wingate, NC.

She moved to Monroe, NC and worked for Portrait Innovations followed by Elizabeth Missionary Church in Monroe, NC. She lived in various areas of Charlotte, NC working for Sunbelt in SC where she met her husband, Kris. After they were married, they moved to Huntersville and she received and opportunity to work in management for IManage. She worked there at the time of her passing.

Lizzie loved cooking, crafts, reading, traveling and spending time with her family. She loved giving gifts and even made sure to order gifts for Christmas for her son and other family members before her passing.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life for Lizzie on February 1, 2025 at the Brockport Exempts, 248 West Ave., Brockport, NY  2 to 4:30 p.m. A brief service will be held at 2:30 p.m. Donations may be made to Kristopher Prieto mailed to 22 East Union St, Holley, NY 14470.

BARRE – Kathy Lynn Coots, 60, of Barre, NY, passed away at the Buffalo Veterans Hospital on Monday, January 13, 2025.

She was born on September 30, 1964, in Batavia, NY, the daughter of the late Gordon and Nancy Lee (Carey) Patnode.

Kathy grew up in Batavia and graduated high school. On September 22, 1983, she enlisted in the U.S. Navy and returned home on May 12, 1986. She worked various jobs, including Crosby’s and Keeler Construction, and lastly, as an associate at the Albion Walmart. In Kathy’s spare time, she enjoyed going to the steam engine shows in Alexander and Canandaigua. Most of all, Kathy enjoyed spending time with her grandson.

Kathy is survived by her husband, William; sons Kyle Bell, Ryan Evans and Raymond Britt III; stepchildren Tammy, Michael, and Robert; and grandson Braxton Britt. Her brothers Edward Ganshaw and Lonnie (Wendy) Patnode also survive, as well as several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Kathy is predeceased by her daughter, Judith Ann Britt, and a brother, Ricky Patnode.

There are no calling hours. A private service will be held at the convenience of the family and burial will be in the Pembroke National Cemetery with full military honors.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to the Orleans County Joint Veterans Council, 13996 Rt. 31 W.  Albion, NY 14411.

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