Obituaries

Christopher W. “Hooter” Pratt, 61, of Brockport/Holley passed away July 26, 2021 after a valiant fight with cancer. He was born Nov. 3, 1959 in Rochester to the late Richard and Mary (Hargather) Pratt.

Chris lived a full life and kept a positive attitude throughout his battle with cancer. He was a huge Cleveland Browns fan and loved to cook on the grill. He was always able to make something from nothing. Chris loved spending time with his family and was always sure to make people laugh.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother, Michael; and mother-in-law, Patricia Blank.

Chris is survived by his loving wife of 15 years, Pauline; step-sons: Aaron (Melissa Selover) Koss, Joel Koss, brothers, Rick (Carolyn), Tim (Christine); father-in-law, Albert Blank; sisters-in-law: Colleen (Al) Roco, Barb Pratt; Godmother, Peggy Commons; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc.. 16650 State Route 31. Holley, NY 14470 on Sat., July 31 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. where his Celebration of Life Service will follow at 1 p.m. Interment will take place at a later date.

Memorial contributions in Chris’ name may be made to an animal shelter of your choice or the American Cancer Society.

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

John G. Hardner, 84, passed away July 23, 2021. He was born Oct. 29, 1936 in Erie, Pa., the sixth of nine children to Rufus and Theresa (Trapp) Hardner.

He graduated from Erie Tech high school and Edinboro University. He served in the Army.

He taught math for 32 years in Lyndonville, NY where students will remember that “you can’t add birds and dogs and get bird dogs!” He coached wrestling and baseball, chaperoned numerous activities and trips, founded the local chapter of the National Honor Society and negotiated for the teachers’ union.

He was instrumental in the founding of the Ontario Shores Federal Credit Union and served on its board for several years.

He retired to Key West, Fla. where he continued to be an avid golfer and won many tournaments. He took up a second career distributing the Miami Herald.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Emily (Culbertson-Black); children: Heidi (Bill Humphrey) and Sean; granddaughter, Meagan and her siblings: Jordyn and Ian Smith, and their mother, Kate Hardner. He is also survived by four brothers.

He is also survived by four brothers.

Arrangements have been made for John by his family in Minneapolis.

Consider sharing a memory of John at www.washburn-mcreavy.com/obituaries/

Mrs. H. Lorraine “DeDe” Root, of the Town of Barre, passed away on Sun., June 6, 2021 at her home, surrounded by her family.

Born in Medina on July 11, 1928, she was a daughter of the late Carl and Helen (Parker) Webber.  Mrs. Root was a graduate of Medina High School, class of 1946. She married F. Pierson Root on Nov. 18, 1950 and together raised a family of six children.

Mrs. Root was a lifelong resident of the Medina area. She owned and operated Four Seasons Fabrics for 16 years. She was a dedicated lifelong member of St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church, where she served as the first President of the church board. Active in the community, she was a member of the Lee-Whedon Memorial Library Board of Trustees, the Tuesday Club, Orleans County Child Welfare Association, Medina Memorial Hospital Twig Association and the Hospice of Orleans original organizing committee.  She enjoyed playing women’s softball for 30 years and bowled for over 50 years.  She traveled extensively worldwide.

Survivors include six children: Rick (Linda) Root, Robin L. (Dawn) Root, R. Scott (Tony McMurtrie) Root, Dale S. (Helen) Root, Pamela (Michael) Maryjanowski and Lisa (Anthony) Acosta; 15 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Alice Webber;  several nieces, nephews and friends. She was predeceased by her husband, Pierson in 1996; her brother, Carl Webber, in 1981 and her sister, Constance Lyster in 2020.

Service Announcement:
Calling hours will be held on Fri., Aug. 6 from 2-4 p.m. & 7-9 p.m. at the family home, 12595 W. Lee Rd., Albion, NY 14411. Her memorial service will be held on Sat., Aug. 7 at 11 a.m. at St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1355 West Ave., Medina, NY 14103. Interment will be in the Root family plot in Mt. Albion Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church or the Lee-Whedon Memorial Library, 620 West Ave., Medina, NY 14103.

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

Thomas Leland Voelker, 58, of Middleport, NY, passed away peacefully on July 20, 2021 at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, NY.  He was the husband of the late, Barbara Clark Voelker, the son of the late Sue Ann Thomas Voelker, and the grandson of the late Catherine “Honey” Wasnock Thomas.

Tom is survived by his children: Jenifer and Thomas Leland II (Shelby Foley and beloved grandson, Thomas Leland III), both of Medina, NY; sisters: Catherine Fliegel of Atlanta, Ga. and Michele (“Meko”) Van Voorhis (Norman) of Holley, NY; special aunt and uncle, B.J. and Ronald Thomas of Medina, NY, former brother-in-law, Eric Fliegel of Naperville, Ill.; several other cousins, nieces and nephews, too many to list; and special canine baby, Elle.

Tom was born on April 13 in Medina, NY, and graduated from Medina High School in 1981.  Tom’s love of animals is surpassed only by his strong work ethic. Tom’s first job was at the age of 11, earning 25 cents an hour pumping gas for customers at Brewer’s Grocery on Ridge Road in Medina, NY. By age 16, Tom was the owner and operator of a working pig farm which continued throughout his high school years.  Tom was also employed at Jeddo Mills, Bells Grocery Store in Medina, NY as a meat cutter, and at Polycom Huntsman in Lockport, NY. One of Tom’s biggest achievements was obtaining a Class A Commercial Driver’s License to begin a career on the road.

Tom was gifted at everything related to building a home, from dry walling to electrical wiring and outlet installation, wood working and painting, plumbing and flooring.  Tom’s soul will live on forever with a fishing pole in one hand and his best girl, Elle’s leash in the other as they take their last walk for the night.

There are no prior calling hours or funeral service at this time.  A private celebration of Tom’s life will be arranged at a later date by the family.

ALBION – Roberta J. “Bobbie” Hadstead, 77, passed away at her home on July 24, 2021. She was born August 9, 1943 in Medina to the late Robert and Mabel (Fuller) Hadstead.

Bobbie was a member of the Medina VFW Auxiliary and Junior Wilsons Sportsman Club. She enjoyed fishing, playing softball and taking care of her horse in her younger years.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her brother, John Hadstead; and niece, Virginia Hauer.

Bobbie is survived by her son, David Hadstead; sisters, Pearl Keitel and Anna Gibbs; and several nieces and nephews.

Services for Bobbie will be held privately. Memorial contributions in her name may be made to COVA, 239 S. Main St. Albion, NY 14411.

Bobbie’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc. Albion, NY. To share a special memory of Bobbie, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Jeffrey T. Nellis, of St. Louis, Mo., passed away on Jan. 28, 2021 from complications related to COVID-19.

Jeff graduated from Holley High School in 1980 and was very active in sport, especially basketball. Jeff was known to others for being respectful and generous and was an avid Buffalo Bills fan. He was employed at Eastman Kodak prior to moving to St. Louis where he was employed at Trilogy as a maintenance manager.

Jeff is survived by his parents, Frank and Patricia long of Holley, NY; brother, Richard Nellis (Heidi); sister Kimberly Sipp (John); several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. Also, a loving fiancé, Diane Fosage of St. Louis. Jeff’s children include: Matthew, Eric, Ashley, Brianna and Austin Nellis; and two grandchildren, Leroy and Carson, all of Florida.

Jeff’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc., 16650 State Route 31, Holley, NY 14470 on Sun., Aug. 1 from 12-3 p.m.

To share a memory of Jeff please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com

David E. “Moose” Herriven, 77, of Albion, NY, went to be with the Lord on Thu., July 15, 2021 at the Villages of Orleans.

Born on Nov. 28, 1943 in Albion, NY, he was the son of the late George and Fanny (Stroyan) Herriven.

David graduated from Medina High School and in 1965 he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He returned home in 1970 and worked various jobs. In his spare time he enjoyed hunting and fishing.

He is survived by his loving companion, Rita Mueller of Albion; son, Richard (Jenny) Herriven of Clermont, Okla.; sister, Sue (Mike) Washak of Medina and several nieces and nephews.

David is predeceased by three siblings: Bonnie Thompson, Sharon Tombari and Richard Harriven.

Relatives and friends may attend a memorial service at 1 p.m. on Sat., July 31, 2021 at the Faith Alliance Church, 3305 Oak Orchard Rd., Albion, NY 14411 with the Pastor Gregg Marston officiating.

Burial will be at the convenience of the family with full military honors at the Western New York National Cemetery, Pembroke.

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

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

Harold L. Maxon, (Sonny, Max) of Stafford, passed away on Sat., July 17, 2021.  He was born in Buffalo, NY on Dec. 31, 1935 to the late Lavern and Jean (Clark) Maxon.  He grew up in Wyoming, NY with fond memories of life on his dad’s farm on Lagrange Road, as well as the Maxon Farm in Bennington.  He was a great story teller and loved to reminisce with memories of the “good old days.”

He went to trade school for refrigeration and air conditioning, but when unable to get a job in that field, he began working in construction.  He was an expert self taught heavy equipment operator and loved excavators and cranes in particular.  He worked for Keeler Construction and later, Allied Builders, where he retired from in 1999.  After retirement, he ran excavator for R.W. Taylor.  He was proud of the numerous jobs that he had been a part of including RIT’s library construction, Spencerport School and parts of Strong hospital.  He would often point out places along a ride where he had dug for gas or water lines, etc.

From a young age, he had a knack for repairing things that stayed with him to the end.  He was happiest when he had grease on his hands from repairing a lawnmower or other small engine.  He spent several years volunteering at UMMC as “The Menu Man”.  In 2005, he built the house that he lived in, in his later years, including doing all of the electrical and plumbing himself.

He is survived by his longtime significant other, Elaine Lemley and her family; his sons: Dennis (Connie) Maxon of Albion, Steven (Yvonne) Maxon of Crawford, Ga., Scott (Mona) Maxon of Winterville, Ga., Russell (Cheryl) Maxon of Batavia, Todd Maxon of Aliso Viejo, Calif., and Carl (Tammy) Maxon of Albion; his daughters: Denise (David) Jaczinski of Basom and Jan (Derek) Standish of Albion; grandchildren: Brad, Tyler, Amber, Amanda, Mary, Alex, Alan, Henry, Ryder, West, Tiffany, Bruce and Logan; great-grandchildren: Rowan, Chase, Zoe, Sophia, Hudson, Adelyn, Hailey, Cole, Hunter, Cailyn, Maddie and Isabell; nephews: Christopher and Michael, both of Fla. and his brother, Robert of Zephyrhills, Fla.; as well as many cousins.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister, Shirley and the mother of his children, Wanda (Hale) Maxon.

Family and friends may call on Wed., July 21 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the Falcone Family Funeral & Cremation Service Inc., 8700 Lake St. Rd. (Rt. 19), LeRoy, where services will be held on Thu., July 22 at 10 a.m.  Interment will follow in Stafford Rural Cemetery.

Your memories and condolences may be shared with Harold’s family at: falconefuneralhome.com

Vernon C. Austin, 93, of Medina, NY, went to be with the Lord on Mon., Feb. 8, 2021 at Premier Nursing Home, Batavia, NY.

For 30 years, Vern was the devoted Caretaker of Mount Pleasant Cemetery in Shelby and prided himself in the meticulous care given to long hours of trimming and mowing the cemetery.  Vern had an amazing memory and knew where most families were buried without looking at the records.

Besides his wife, Vern is survived by his children: Danice Austin of Albion, Vernon Carl Austin Jr. of Batavia, Beverly (Dick) Walthew of E. Bethany, and Alan (Barb) Austin of Albion. Also survived are grandchildren: David, Daryl, Darci, Anne, Stephany and 12 great-grandchildren; brothers-in-law: Clifford (Susan) Grant of Gasport, NY, Lee (Lori) Grant, and sister-in-law, Jean Grant, all of Middleport, NY.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a graveside committal at 2 p.m. on Sat., July 24, 2021 at the Mount Pleasant Cemetery, Salt Works Rd., Medina, NY 14103.

Arrangements were made through the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St., Medina, NY 14104.

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

She is survived by her son, Michael Talbot (Jennifer) of Taylors; brother, Dean Hart (Donna) of Port Charlotte, Fla.; and grandchildren: Alex, Bailey, and Tim Talbot, Amy Richardson, and Tammy Yaskulski. She was predeceased by her young son, Dale Edray Talbot.

Visitation will be held on Fri., July 16, from 1-2 p.m. at Mountain Springs Baptist Church. The service will follow at 2 p.m.  A graveside service will be held on Fri., July 23 at 11 a.m. at Sandy Creek Cemetery, Murray, NY.

Memorials may be made to Mountain Springs Baptist Church, 410 Mountain Springs Rd., Piedmont, SC 29673; or to the American Cancer Society, 154 Milestone Way, Greenville, SC 29615.

Gray Mortuary, Pelzer • Condolences: www.graymortuary.com

MEDINA – Randall Paul Bane, 80, died unexpectedly July 17, 2021 at his residence. He was born June 17, 1941 in Albion to Paul and Mildred (Stalker) Bane and had returned to this area in 2012.

Mr. Bane was a United States Army Veteran serving during the Vietnam era. Randall was the founder of David’s House, a non-denominational place for people to use a worship center. He travelled the world as a director and performer of the Feast of the Tabernacles in Israel. Randall was an actor, dancer and a Christian Performance Artist who conducted trainings and seminars for interpretive dance and movement to Christian Music. He also was an avid gardener, a woodworker and enjoyed making creative flags for his ministry.

Mr. Bane was predeceased by a brother, Kirk Bane.

He is survived by his sister, Kathleen (Gene) Bane-Dinse of Lyndonville, as well as several nieces and nephews.

There will be no calling hours. Private services and interment in Lynhaven Cemetery will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Genesee/Orleans Council on Alcohol and Substance Abuse, 249 East Ave., Albion, NY, 14411. Randall’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Bates, Wallace & Heath Funeral Home of Middleport.

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

Craig “Randy” Murphy, 67 of Kent, entered into rest unexpectedly on Tue., July 13, 2021.

Born Aug. 17, 1953 in Montgomery, West Virginia, he was a son of the late Burrel and Arlene (Holcomb) Murphy. Randy was a graduate of Lyndonville High School. He went on to work for Bernzomatic and, at one time, owned and operated an automotive repair shop in Medina. He finally worked as a fork lift operator for Bonduelle in Brockport, where he retired. Randy was a great cook. He enjoyed hunting, playing volleyball and also riding motorcycle. Above all, he enjoyed spending time with his loving family and grandchildren.

Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Judy A. Murphy; stepdaughters: Sherry Edkin and Wanda (Dan Smith) Edkin; grandchildren: Zack Monagan, Cody Smith, Kaylee Smith, Aleighsha Dercqu, Robert Dercqu IV and Harley Edkin; a brother, Anthony (Lisa) Murphy; nieces and nephews: Kathryn Richards, Christopher (Jocelyn) Murphy, Tricia (Ian) Goodrich, Timothy Murphy, Samantha Murphy and Melodi Murphy; and his most cherished cousin, Derwin (Melinda) Young and family. In addition to his parents he was predeceased by brothers: Duane Murphy, Kevin Murphy and Quinton Murphy; and nephew, Tyler Murphy.

A graveside committal service will be held on Sat., July 31 at 12 p.m. in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, Shelby. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina.

Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com

Mt. Dora, FL./West Barre: The Lord called home one of his finest when Ray Markle, 85 of Mt. Dora, Fla., entered into rest on Tue., July 6, 2021. He passed peacefully at home, surrounded by his children, following a short illness. He was a hard-working, generous and gentle man, who leaves a legacy of kindness.

Born April 4, 1936 in Elba, NY, to Lewis and Margaret (Say) Markle, Ray married the love of his life, Patricia Garrison, in 1956. Together they raised three children: Lanor (Joe) Markle-Monachino of Elba, Dana (Karen) Markle of Oakfield, and Valerie (Greg) Seidel of Winter Park, Fla.

Ray started his career at the Elba O&E. He was a member of the International Operating Engineers Union, and worked with Keeler Construction and many other construction crews throughout Western New York. In West Barre, he was known as The Keeper of the Light.

After retiring to Florida in 1992, he spent time with the Tampa Parks Department and Tampa Tribune before fully retiring in Mt. Dora. In Mt. Dora, Ray lived on 10 acres of beautiful rolling land with a menagerie of cattle, horses, burros, peacocks, chickens and other animals over the years. He hosted many visitors from around the world during his time in Mt. Dora.

In addition to his children, survivors include his grandchildren: John Gaylord, Kate Menas and Adam Gaylord; Samantha Markle; and Catherine and Cheyenne Seidel; 6 great-grandchildren; siblings: Lee Markle, Eleanor Kerstetter, Reed Markle and Helen Shetler; and sister-in-law, Beverly Silker; and multiple beloved nieces and nephews.

Ray was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia in 1993; sisters: Gertrude Davis and Rita Sue Woodworth; and brother, Richard Markle.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc. 21 West Ave., Albion, on Thu. Aug. 5, from 4-7 p.m.  Ray’s memorial service will be held at the West Barre United Methodist Church, 5377 Albion Eagle Harbor Rd., Albion, on Fri., Aug. 6, at 11 a.m.  A memorial service will also be held at his beloved Tangerine Community Church in Tangerine, Florida.

Memorial donations may be made to Cornerstone Hospice, Supportive Care of Orleans, Tangerine Community Church or West Barre United Methodist Church.

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

Rita A. Pfenninger (née Hartman), died on June 29, 2021.  She was born in Batavia on Dec. 2, 1949 to George and Eleanor Hartman (née Schneller).

She had spent considerable time in various communities – Elba, Chicago, Bergen, Byron, and later in life, Akron, Medina, and Lockport.  Rita enjoyed cheering for the Pittsburgh Steelers, listening to Alabama, and spending summers at “camp” – Leisurewood in Akron.  She also liked to spoil her dog, Ben-G.

Rita was predeceased by her parents; daughter, Wendy Cayea; husbands: Wayne Cayea and Raymond Pfenninger; and brother, Douglas Hartman. She is survived by her children: Wayne (Adrienne) Cayea and Jessica Pfenninger; brothers: Robert (Camilla) and Wayne (Donna) Hartman; nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.  Rita’s arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina.  To share a special memory of Rita, please visit www.cooperfuneralhome.com

Harry Lee Flatt, 75, died peacefully at home in Medina, NY on July 11, 2021 with his wife beside him. He was born in Medina, NY on Sept. 8, 1945.

Harry is survived by his wife of 23 years, Sandy Marky DVM; daughter, Jennifer (Bradley) Hillman; grandson, Reagan Hillman; and  sister, Suzanne (Jim) Zazowski. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews and is also survived by the mother of his children, Dawn Meland. He was predeceased by his son, Gregory Flatt and his parents, Harry and Dorothy Flatt.

He was a member of the MHS Class of 1963. As a young man he won many drag races with C-Stock Automatic, served in the NY National Guard, worked briefly at Kodak and then bought the family farm, owned by his father Harry and grandfather Samuel before that: Flattlands Holsteins. The 100-150 head herd of “pet” Friesians, Holsteins, Guernsey and Jersey cows kept him busy until sold in 1988. The 400-acre farm was recognized in Hoard’s Dairyman Magazine with an article as a NYS Top Producer, and was also recognized as a top milkfat producer by the Upstate Niagara Cooperative, Inc. Always a farmer, he maintained a hobby farm at home utilizing and maintaining his beloved “Green Belly” 1967 John Deer Bucket Tractor.

After selling his herd, he worked as a farm hand at Chaffee Farms LLC, Baskin Livestock, and most recently at Genesee Valley Farm. At each farm he worked, he adopted the barn cat as his own, even getting a T-shirt for the “Best Cat Dad Ever.” He worked hard on his gardens at home, achieving a productive asparagus bed, and a cultivated variety of berry patches. By not having his own farm, he was able to travel to New Zealand, Hawaii and Oregon and spend time locally with family and friends in the Western NY area. He loved to play Euchre and never missed an opportunity to do so. Harry was also well known for his creative salads sourced from his own garden, and in particular his outstanding egg salad. When visiting, you never left without the offer of produce to take home! Harry always had time for anyone in need, friend, family or stranger He was steadfast in getting things done, the right way, no matter how daunting the task.

As per his wishes, there will be no funeral or memorial services. Harry would prefer that friends and family gather to remember him in informal gatherings, with a few games of euchre included and hopefully some fresh elderberry pie.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Roswell Park Alliance Foundation, the Volunteers for Animals of Batavia, Supportive Care of Orleans, or a cancer or animal rescue charity of your choosing.

Terry Holloway, 57, of Medina, NY, entered into rest on Thur., July 8, 2021 at his home.

Born on April 28, 1964 in Medina, NY, he was the son of the late William and Grace P. (Hammonds) Holloway Sr.

Terry was a devoted father and grandfather and was known as a free spirit who enjoyed traveling, cooking for his family and friends and was a hard worker.

Terry is survived by his children: Terry (Olivia) Holloway Jr. of Medina, Natasha Holloway of Medina, Xavier Oliver of Lockport; grandchildren: Giovanni, Aubriana, Destiny, Christina, Denashia; siblings: Dorothy (Calvin) Hamilton of Albion, Cornelia Holloway of Georgia, Yvonne Satchwell of Medina, Katherine Myers of Georgia, Kelvin Holloway of Niagara Falls, Clara Barnum, Matthew (Felicia) Holloway of Lockport. Also surviving is an aunt, Glennis Chinn of Medina and a host of nieces and nephews and cousins.

Terry is predeceased by a sister, Peggy Lee Banks and a brother, William Holloway Jr.

Relatives and friends may call on Sat., July 17, 2021 from 1-3 p.m. at the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St., Medina, NY 14103. Burial will be private for the family. Family and friends are invited to a repass at Medina’s State St. Park after calling hours.

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

William Lee “Bill” Starr, 72, of Lyndonville, NY passed away on July 11, 2021 at the Grand Nursing Home in Rome, NY after a brief battle with cancer.

Bill was born on March 27, 1949 to Donald Starr and Marion Banazuski Starr Gunnels in Medina, NY. He attended Lyndonville High School and worked for many years at Fisher Price and then for Lefarge Stone Products prior to his retirement.

He was a member of Junior Wilson’s Sportsman’s Club and a social member of the Medina Vet’s Club.  Bill was an avid hunter and outdoorsman.

Bill was predeceased by his parents, Donald and Marion Starr; sister, Mary Ann Baun; nephew, Lynn Baun; and his lifetime companion, Naomi Wright. He is survived by his brother, Donald “Ken” (Joyce) Starr; Naomi’s children: Jill (Tim) Bolton, Joel (LeAnne) Wright and Bill (Amy) Wright, and their children: nieces Laura (Derrek) Harmer and Heather (Mike) Starr Fiedler and their children; nephew, Jim (Serena) Starr, and his children.

A private service will be held at Lynhaven Cemetery in Lyndonville at a later date.  The family invites those who wish to express sympathy to make a donation to their favorite charity in Bill’s name.

Carl V. Caleb, Jr., 74, of the Town of Shelby, entered into rest on Tue., Jan. 12, 2021, at the Strong Memorial Hospital following a lengthy battle with complications from cancer.

Carl, born Aug. 11, 1946, in Medina, was the eldest of three siblings whose parents were the late Victor C. and Shirley (Cook) Caleb. He graduated from Medina High School in the class of 1964.

After graduation, Carl worked briefly for DynaLab Corporation in Rochester, before being drafted into the United States Army.  He served in active duty in South Korea as an MP from 1966-1968 and continued in the Army Reserve until 1970.

On Aug. 20, 1976, Carl married the love of his life, the former Patricia Brennan, daughter of the late John and Josephine Brennan, and began a lifelong, joyful journey with Patricia and her two sons, Sean and Mike.  Carl enjoyed spending time with his stepsons including a passion for baseball beginning as their coach in Medina Little League and continuing with their shared love for the New York Yankees.  Carl will also be remembered for being one of the favorite umpires in Medina Little League.  Carl’s impact extended well beyond Sean and Mike, as their close friends also share many vivid and fond memories of their time with Carl over the years.  In later years, Carl became “Grandpa Bear” and loved being with his three grandchildren (Christie, Josie, and Caleb) while in California or as they visited him in Medina.

Carl worked for many years for the Town of Shelby Highway Department starting in 1968 and was eventually elected as Highway Superintendent in 1983, and reelected 5 times (1987, 1991, 1995, 1999, 2003), serving in that capacity until his retirement in 2005.

Carl experienced a life-defining event in 1979, when his right arm was paralyzed in a snowmobile accident.  After a difficult recovery, Carl returned to work with heavy equipment and performed other acts that amazed family, friends, and co-workers.  A familiar refrain was “how could Carl have done that with one arm when I couldn’t do it with two?”

Carl was an avid lover of the outdoors and enjoyed hunting, four-wheeling and open spaces. He was well known by one and all for his quick-witted input to any conversation.  A favorite among the highway superintendents was the notorious “Pole tax” story involving a rookie superintendent Roger Wolfe.  Carl was a member of Lincoln Post #1483 VFW, Butts-Clark Post #204 American Legion, and the Junior Wilson Sportsman’s Club.

Survivors include his beloved wife, Patricia B. Caleb of Shelby; stepsons: Sean Carey and Michael Carey both of Calif.; grandchildren: Christie, Josephine, and Caleb Carey; sister, Lynne Fisher; sisters-in-law: Eileen (late John) McElwain and Mary (Paul) Woodruff; several treasured aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and extended family; and many dear close friends. Besides his parents, Carl was predeceased by his brother, Brent (late Rose) Caleb.

A graveside service with full military honors will be held on Sun., July 25 at 10 a.m. in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in West Shelby. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Richard Knights / Sue Kaderli Memorial Fund, Inc., P.O. Box 684; Medina, NY 14103 http://knightskaderli.blogspot.com/p/donate.html or: The Shelby Volunteer Fire Company Inc., P.O. Box 1, Medina NY, 14103. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share memories and condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com

Alton “Al” L. Quackenbush, 75, died Jan. 16, 2021 in Lakeland Hospital following a brief illness.

He was born Oct. 12, 1945 in Shelby to Maxwell and Edith (Crawford) Quackenbush and was a life-long resident of this area. Al was a member of the Community Fellowship Church and a retiree of Harrison Radiator. Al was a person who was always helping someone out and who also enjoyed a good prank every now and then. In his earlier years, he enjoyed his sled dogs and raising horses. He enjoyed playing shuffleboard, fishing and was a handyman by nature. However, Al’s most favorite pastime was spending time with his grandchildren. 

Mr. Quackenbush was predeceased by his first wife, Diane Quackenbush; and siblings: Loren, Raymond, Bob and Gerald Quackenbush, June Braun, Gloria Rosentreter, Joan Penwright and Sarah Quackenbush.

 He is survived by his wife, Leona; daughter, Candy Allport of Albion; son Chris Quackenbush of Albion; step-sons: George (Donna) Snell of Lyndonville, Wayne (Kathi) Snell of Albion, Walter (Candy) Snell of Albion; brother, Leslie Quackenbush; grandchildren: Dmitry, George III, Kristin, Lyndsey, Kathryn, John, Jaclyn, Robert, Amanda, Andrew, Walter Lee; as well as several nieces and nephews.

 The family will receive friends on Sat. July 24, 2021 at the Community Fellowship Church, 3144 Johnson Creek Rd. Middleport from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.  Al’s Memorial Service will immediately follow visitation at 12 p.m.

 In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to an organization of your choice.  Al’s arrangements were entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc. of Albion.  To share a memory of Al, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com