Obituaries

Sharon A. Duhow, 60, of Lockport passed away peacefully Jan. 24, 2021.  She was born June 14, 1960 in Newfane, the daughter of the late Ashely Ray Parmley and Donna R. (Townsend) Parmley.  Sharon was a 1979 graduate of Newfane High School and also graduated from Niagara University with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration.

Sharon was a member of St. Brendan on the Lake in Newfane.  She enjoyed camping, puzzles and sitting on her front porch listing to thunder storms.  Sharon’s greatest joy was spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

Sharon was predeceased by her husband ,Larry Eugene Duhow; sister, Dawn Burkett; sister-in-law, Donna Nytes and brother-in-law, Gary Duhow.  She is survived by her daughter, Christa (Kevin) Ritz; grandchildren: Haylie, Emily and Vinny; brother, Robert (Deanna) Parmley; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Diane (James) Lee, Bonnie (Terry) Enderton, Dave (Marleen) Duhow, Karen (Greg) Smith, Rob (Kathy) Duhow, Bob (Krista) Duhow; Vic (Sara) Thibault; brother-in-law, Jason Burkett; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

No prior calling hours.  A Celebration of Sharon’s life will be held at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Roswell Park Alliance Foundation, P.O. Box 631, Buffalo, NY 14240.

Sharon’s arrangements have been entrusted to Kenneth H. Sherrie Funeral Home in Newfane.  To share a special memory of Sharon, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com

Eugene “Gene” Banas, 82, of Albion passed away peacefully at home on Jan 25, 2021 with his family by his side after a 5-year battle with cancer.  He was born Dec. 8, 1938 in Albion, a son of the late Henry and Isabel (Crane) Banas and had lived in this area all of his life.

Gene served in the U.S. Navy from 1956-1959.  He was a member of Holy Family Parish and the Knights of Columbus.  He loved spending time gardening and doing his yard work.  Gene spent many years selling cars and later, he retired from NYS Department of Corrections.

Gene was predeceased by the love of his life Elaine Coloney Banas.  He is survived by his children Gary of Calif., Karen (Dan) Ward of Albion, Robert of Albion, Linda (Arthur) Zeh of Saratoga Springs; grandchildren: Daniel (Lindsay Froman) Ward II of NC, Justin (Nichol Belsito) Ward of Holley, Olivia Zeh of South Korea, Erica Zeh of Saratoga Springs; his siblings: Susan (Jim) Anderson of Knowlesville, Sandra Banas of Denver, Steven (Beth) Banas of Buffalo; nephews: Aaron and Jason Anderson; niece, Sarah King of Denver.

There are no prior calling hours.  His mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Family Parish Fri., Jan. 29 at 10:00 a.m.  Burial will be in Mt. Albion Cemetery with Military Honors.  Memorials may be to Supportive Care of Orleans, P.O. Box 489, Albion, NY 14411 or Holy Family Parish, South Main St., Albion, NY 14411.  Arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc. Albion.

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

JoAnn R. Sydney (Stewart), 78, of Medina, passed quietly to rest on Jan. 22, 2021, at her home with her family in Medina, NY. Born Jan. 27, 1942, she was a daughter to the late Roy Francis and Rita Mary (Howe) Stewart of Medina. JoAnn married William L. Sydney in May of 1965, eventually moving to the nearby town of Kendall, where she raised her 3 children.

JoAnn was independent and hardworking, from her first retail job behind the counter at Medina’s Rosenkrans Pharmacy, until she retired from Bausch and Lomb in Rochester as an Executive Assistant. After her professional career, JoAnn then returned home to Medina to care for her mother, Rita, full time. In addition to spending time with family and friends, JoAnn enjoyed reading, long rides in the country, great food and lively conversation.

Predeceased by her mother, Rita (2020); father, Roy (2000); sister, Kathryn M. Isham (2019); and son, Alexander H. Sydney (2014). JoAnn is survived by her sisters: Frances M. (Lawrence) Isham and Marie U. (Stephen) Horton; her children: Daniel H. (Laurie) Sydney and Rebecca S. Miller; her cousins: Jean and Carl Wagner, as well as many other dear nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

A private memorial service will be held in lieu of public funeral services and the family requests that, rather than sending flowers, you support your local communities, such as contributing to the Medina Sandstone Society, P.O. Box 25, 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

Catharine M. Gallagher (nee, Allen), 75, passed away peacefully at home on Dec. 24, 2020.

She was born July 29, 1945 to the late Catharine and Frank Allen. She is survived by her beloved daughter, Kelly Catharine Gallagher; sister, Emma Cosby; many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends; ex-husband, James Gallagher, and members of her treasured church family.

Cathy was a dedicated, lifelong member of the First Presbyterian Church in Holley for many years. She loved this church and her church family dearly. She is predeceased also by her sister, Marion Woodworth and brother, James Allen.

Cathy was a talented seamstress and made clothing and curtains for herself, her daughter, and neighbors and friends. She was also a very good cook. She worked with the historical society for the Town of Murray and Village of Holley for a time. Working for 23 years at Lawyer’s Co-Op in Rochester, she received many accolades during her career.

Cathy is and will be sorely missed. Cathy was cremated, a service and interment of her ashes for will be scheduled for a date this spring.

Gail F. Ward, 81, of Albion died Jan. 23, 2021 at her home surrounded by her loving family.  She was born Sept. 8, 1939 in Albion, the daughter of the late Herman and Loraine (Gibbs) Ruck and had lived in this area all of her life.

Gail had worked at Head Start as a teacher’s aide.  She bowled for over 50 years at Oak Orchard Lanes.  She enjoyed her drives with her husband and dog Chloe. They traveled the countryside visiting the lake and watching the birds.  Most importantly, Gail loved spending time with her family and friends.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her son, Albert, Jr.  She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Albert; her children: Pamela (Richard) Woodcook, Roxanne Brooks, Daniel (Karen) Ward, Lora Hayes, Paul (Tammy) Ward; 14 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren; her brother, Loren (Karen) Ruck; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Her services will be held at the convenience of the family.  Memorials may be made to Supportive Care of Orleans, P.O. Box 489, Albion, NY 14411.  Arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc. Albion.  To share a special memory of Gail, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com

Rose Waters, 90, of Medina, entered into rest on Thu., Jan. 21, 2021 at the Medina Memorial Hospital.

Born Feb. 26, 1930 in Medina, Rose was a daughter of the late Helen (Kania) Granat. She married the late Harold Waters in 1949 and together raised two daughters. Mrs. Waters started her long career at the Medina Memorial Hospital in the early 1950s, first as a volunteer, then a nurse’s aide and finally as an operating room technician. She retired in 2006.

Mrs. Waters was predeceased by her husband, Harold in 1991; and her brother, Frank Bunchuk, who was killed in the Korean War in 1950.

She is survived by her two daughters: Jeanette Welsh of Pittsburgh, PA and Sandra Waters of Medina; two grandchildren: Dr. Ian (Ashli) Welsh of Fort Mill, SC and Lindsay Welsh of NYC; three grandchildren: Nathan, Carter and Abigail.

The family wishes to extend their sincere gratitude to the caring staff at the North Wing Skilled Nursing Facility and all others at Medina Memorial Hospital who gave such compassionate care to Rose and her family in her final years.

Calling hours will be held at a later date in the spring. Interment will be in Boxwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Medina Memorial Hospital North Wing- Activities Dept., 200 Ohio St., 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

Florence L. Moden, of Medina, entered into rest on Sat., Jan. 23, 2021 at the age of 95.

Born Dec. 19, 1925 in the Town of Hartland, she was a daughter of the late Edward and Rose (Coulson) Giertz. She married the late Walter Moden. Mrs. Moden worked in canning factories in Lyndonville and Middleport and finally worked for Niagara Foods. She was a longtime parishioner of the United Methodist Church in Medina, currently the Grove United Methodist Church. An active community member, Mrs. Moden also served on the Home Bureau and was a lifelong member of the Ridgeway Fire Co. Ladies Auxiliary. She enjoyed playing bingo and doing needle point.

Predeceased by her husband, Walter Moden in 1976; sons: George, Wayne and Jay Moden; and siblings: Alice, Roy, Mary, Mildred and Edward “Dean”, Jr.

Survivors include six children: Janice (late Stanley) Gillmeister, Karl (Susan) Moden, Sharon (late Larry) Farrow, Beverly Nudd, Paul Moden and Scott (Roxanne) Moden; 26 grandchildren; several great- and great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends on Wed., Jan. 27 from 10:00-11:00 a.m. at the Grove United Methodist Church, 11004 W. Center St., Medina, with her funeral service immediately following at 11:00 a.m. The Rev. Larry Eastlack will officiate and interment will be in Wrights Corners Cemetery, Lockport. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Grove United Methodist Church at the address above. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share memories and condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com

ALBION – Estella B. Dewing, 88, of Albion, NY, was reunited with her husband Al in heaven to rejoice together in the presence of their Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Friday, January 22, 2021 at her home with her loving family at her side, due to a non-COVID related illness.

She was born on January 11, 1933, in Medina, a daughter of the late Dr. Tompkins and Ida (Stinson) Tompkins.

Stella graduated from Medina High School and was a devoted housewife and mother, raising three children. She was employed with the former Fisher-Price, and Knowlesville Store and lastly as a Greeter at Walmart. She was a member of the Knowlesville United Methodist Church and was known to many as the “Salt Potato Lady” and was a diehard Buffalo Bills fan. Most of all, Stella enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Stella is survived by three children, Linda (Roger) Stinson, Lynn Dewing, all of Albion, and David (Lorrie) Dewing of Medina: 10 grandchildren, Corie (Ken) Strickland of Albion, Cal (Terry) Stinson of Lyndonville,  Chris (Brandy) Stinson, Clay (Tiffany) Stinson, all of Albion, Kenny (Jenn) Haylett and Carie (Ben) Doty, all of Albion, Katie (Jason) Meindl of Lyndonville, Bobbi (John) Houseman of Lyndonville, Jamie Dewing of Albion, and David Dewing Jr. of Medina. Also surviving are 25 great-grandchildren and numerous great-great grandchildren; a sibling, Larry (Dorothy) Bowen of Rochester; a sister-in-law, Linda Bennett and a special nephew, Charlie Bennett Jr., both of Watkins Glen and many other nieces and nephews.

Besides her husband, Stella is predeceased by four siblings, Wesley, Lester and Charles Bennett and Gerry Fletcher; a granddaughter, Casey Stinson and her furry companion, Maddie.

Relatives and friends may call on Friday, January 29, 2021 from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Oak Orchard Assembly of God Church, 12111 Ridge Rd, Medina, NY 14103 where a funeral service will be held at 6 p.m. with the Rev. Kim Smith officiating. Burial will be held at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Stella’s name to the Orleans County 4-H Fair, 12690 Route 31 Albion, NY 14411.

The family would like to give a heartfelt thank you to all of the aides that cared for Stella at Venture Forthe and HCR.

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

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

AKRON – Dorothy E. Jago, 95, passed away January 22, 2021. She was born March 16, 1925 in the Town of Newstead, a daughter of the late John and Mabel (Harrington) Fitch.

Mrs. Jago was an active member of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church of Wolcottsville and enjoyed reading the bible every day. Dorothy also enjoyed cooking, crafts, puzzles and watching In Touch Ministries with Dr. Charles Stanley. Dorothy’s greatest joy was spending time with her family.

She was predeceased by her husband, Melvin and sister Marian (Leslie) Sharpsteen.

Mrs. Jago is survived by her children, George (Lois), Fred (Dorothy), Brenda (Lester) Bower and William (Darlene); grandchildren, Louann (Shawn) Tobin, Laura (Mike) Bishop, Kirk (Kay) Jago, Jennifer (David) Jago, Branden (Karrie) Bower and William (Catherine) Jago Jr.; 14 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great-grandchildren and brother, Dr. Laverne (Karen) Fitch; and several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, January 28, from noon to 1 p.m. at the Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, 6369 Wolcottsville Rd. Akron, NY 14001. Mrs. Jago’s funeral service will be at 1 p.m. at the church followed by interment in Trinity Lutheran Cemetery. Memorials may be made to In Touch Foundation P.O. Box 620362, Atlanta, GA 30362 or to the church.

Mrs. Jago’s arrangements have been entrusted to Bates, Wallace & Heath Funeral Home, 38 State St. Middleport. To share a special memory of Dorothy, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Ronald E. Petrie, 67, of Medina entered into rest unexpectedly at his home on Mon., Jan. 18, 2021.

Born Nov. 13, 1953 in Medina, Ron was a son of the late G. Irving and Geraldine (Harris) Petrie. He was a graduate of Lyndonville High School, class of 1972. He was employed at Delphi-Harrison Radiator Div. of GMC in Lockport for over 30 years. He then worked for Baxter Healthcare in Medina for several years, retiring in 2019. Ron was a lifelong active member of the Lyndonville Presbyterian Church where he served as elder, deacon and trustee. He was an avid hunter, enjoyed riding motorcycle, kayaking and also enjoyed concerts and live music.

Left to cherish his memory are his children: Gregory (James) Petrie; Adam (Amanda) Petrie, Shannon (Carly) Petrie and Crystal (Darryl) Alexander; grandchildren: Briana and Aiden Petrie, Colby, Landen and Logan Petrie and Preston and Carley Alexander; sister, Jeanette (late Gary) Lindke; sister-in-law, Harriet Petrie; also several nieces, nephews and cousins. Beside his parents he was predeceased by his brother, Lawrence Petrie.

Calling hours will be held on Sat., Jan. 23 from 11 a.m – 1 p.m. at the Lyndonville Presbyterian Church, 107 N. Main St., Lyndonville, where his funeral service will immediately follow at 1 p.m. Interment will be in Lynhaven Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Lyndonville Presbyterian Church. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com

Ross A. Barr, 92, of Lockport died Jan. 19, 2021 in Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital following a long illness.  He was born Aug. 3, 1928 in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.  Ross served in the Navy Branch of the Canadian Armed Forces and had travelled the world as a Master Swimmer and was a Swimming Coach at Royalton Hartland Central School.  In doing so, he had received many medals for his efforts, particularly with the Empire State Games.

He was a former employee of Gasport Welding, had enjoyed tinkering around the house and in his shop.  He loved his dogs and treated them like his kids.  Ross will be remembered as a devoted family man and as a person with a great sense of humor.

Mr. Barr was predeceased by three sisters.  He is survived by his children: Michael Barr of Gasport, Steven (Susan Patterson) Barr of Ariz., Bonnie Rice of Youngstown, and Scott (Debbie) Barr, Amy (Louis) Smith, Rick (Luz) Barr, Ray (Courtney) Barr all of Fla., Jenny Barr of Newfane; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends at the Sherrie Bream Funeral Home, 4521 Main St., Gasport, Tue., Jan. 26 from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. where his funeral service will be held Wed., Jan. 27 at 11 a.m.  The service will also be live streamed on the funeral home website listed below, also beginning at 11 a.m.  Interment will be in Hartland Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Niagara County SPCA, 2100 Lockport Rd., Niagara Falls, NY 14304.  Please note the funeral home will be operating at 33% capacity per state guidelines. NY requires those in attendance to adhere to social distancing guidelines and face coverings are mandatory.

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

On Jan. 18, 2021, Sandra Bower, 81 of Holley entered God’s eternal care with her daughter and granddaughter by her side, after a hard-fought battle with coronavirus.

Born Jan. 1, 1940, she was predeceased by her beloved husband George of 62 years; her parents Jesse and Dorothy (Reamer) Gillette; and son Edwin. She is survived by her sister, Darl (Donald) Ryan. She is the cherished mother of: Lisa (Kevin) Logsdon, Randy (Robin), Michael (Jill) Bower. She is the beloved grandmother to: Andrew, Steven (Felicia), Edwin (Leah) Bower, Lauren (Trinity), Michael (Kevin Kinear) Logsdon, Jessica (Tyler) Smay, Jacob (Star), Adam (Devin), Aaron (Kendra), Jonathan (Sarah), Patrick (Allyssa) Bower; and six great-granddaughters :Kailynn, Adelyn, Isabelle and Nora Bower, Sadie Smay, and Emilia Logsdon. She is the loving aunt to many nieces and nephews.

Sandy was a devoted mother and grandmother and her greatest joy was spending time with family. She showered her grandchildren with affection and attention, and thrived in their loving company. She will be remembered for her strength, her selflessness and her infinite wisdom. She worked for 30 years at Orleans County Government as Director of Personnel and Self Insurance and attended annual conferences religiously becoming statewide President of the groups. She had a busy and productive career retiring in 2006.

Our family would like to express our deepest appreciation and gratitude to the doctors, nurses and staff of Strong Memorial Hospital. Their dedication, courage and commitment to their patients deserves our deepest admiration. Sandra’s and George’s mass of Christian burial will be held at a later date to be announced.

Memorials may be made to The Whole Approach, 4294 Fourth Section Rd., Brockport, NY 14420 where Sandy enjoyed her morning exercise classes or St. Mary’s Church, 9 S. Main St., Holley, NY 14470.

Sandra’s arrangements have been entrusted to Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc., 16650 State Route 31, Holley, NY. To share a special memory of Sandra, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com

John A. Keding, 85, of Albion passed away peacefully Jan. 18, 2021.  John was born Sept. 2, 1935 in Buffalo a son of the late Albert and Irene (Lazear) Keding.

John’s love of mechanics started at a young age while working at Western Auto and then for the Smith Brothers. He was a graduate of Albion High School, class of 1953. He furthered his education in the field of automotive technology at the General Motors Institute in Flint Michigan, a two-year program.  He worked for General Motors for three years, served in the Army at Fort Dix from 1958-1960 and then in the Army Reserves from 1960-1964.  He worked for The Engle-Harrison Motor Co., Inc. for many years, eventually being instrumental in the building of their larger facility on Rt 31 that opened in 1972; he taught mechanics at B.O.C.E.S and also taught an evening class that he called W.O.W. (Women on Wheels).

John is probably best known for Keding Automotive Service, which he established in 1974, located on East Avenue in Albion.  After 46 years in business and 70 years being a respected mechanic, John retired in August, 2020.  John said he was going to miss his customers and daily interaction with the community.

John was a long standing member of the First Presbyterian Church of Albion and an active member for 52 years of the Albion Lions Club.  He joined the club in 1968 and served as president in 1976 and for about 25 years as club secretary, taking attendance, writing the minutes from meeting and doing all the reports.   John was awarded the Melvin Jones Fellowship Award for his love and dedication to the Lions club.  He was instrumental in all club functions but some of his favorites were selling roses for Mother’s Day at his shop & cooking sausage at the Albion Strawberry Festival.  He was also known for his grilling skills cooking sausage at the Pine Hill Airport Fly in Breakfast.  Whenever there was an opportunity to give back to his community, John was there.

John’s idea of a vacation or time off was spent working with his hands – he enjoyed wood working, repairing things & doing household renovations – several stories can be told of his time spent helping others renovate their homes, including a few with the “Drill from Hell.”

John was a lover of all animals, especially his “grand pups.”  He was known for his sense of humor & sarcasm, for being kind, honest, patient, hardworking & generous. He truly is a legend and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

John is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Pat (Schleider) Keding; children, Karen (David) Watts (NC), James (Laureen) Keding (FL) and Chris (Michael) Buongiorne; grandchildren, Jacob (Jessica) Marks, Katie (Gary) Pahura, Sara Keding (FL), Emma Keding (FL) and Elijah Buongiorne; great-grandchildren: Owen Marks and Noah Keding (FL); brother, Fred (Sharon) Keding (AK), sister-in-law, Margaret Grose; and several nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of John’s Life will be announced at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Supportive Care of Orleans (Hospice), P.O. Box 489, Albion, NY 14411 or the Albion Lions Club, 13313 Eagle Harbor Knowlesville Rd., Albion, NY 14411.

John’s arrangements have been entrusted to Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc,. 21 West Ave., Albion.

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

William F. “Billy” Waterstram Jr., 58, of Lyndonville, NY, passed away peacefully on Mon., Jan. 18, 2021 at Strong Memorial Hospital, with his loving family at his side.

Born on Oct. 2, 1962 in Buffalo, NY, he was the son of Judith (Abar) Waterstram and the late William F. Waterstram. Billy grew up in Lyndonville, NY and in 1981, graduated from L.A. Weber High School, where he was on the wrestling team and participated in the BOCES Auto body Program. Billy drove truck for Fantasy Pools in Clarence, NY and also drove for companies. His most recent employment was driving for Lessor’s Inc. of MN. Billy cherished the time spent with his family and friends, he also was an avid NASCAR, Buffalo Bills and Sabres fan.

Besides his mother, Billy is survived by two sisters: Lynette (Kenny) Hering of Barre, NY, Danielle Buchholz of Lyndonville, NY; six nieces and nephews: Anna (Peter) Mathes, Jonathan and Nicholas Soule, Ashley, Mason and Avery Buchholz; five great-nieces and nephews: Taylor, Matthew, Olivia, Natalie and Jonny. Also surviving is an uncle, Wayne (Patricia) Lorenz of Clarence, NY and many loving cousins and his beloved cat, McGee.

There are no calling hours. A service will be held in the spring on a later date to be announced.

In lieu of flowers, Memorials can be made in Billy’s name to the Richard Knights-Sue Kaderli Memorial Fund, P.O.Box 684, Medina, NY 14103 or to the Lyndonville Lions 4th of July Fund, P.O. Box 371, Lyndonville, NY 14098.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 112 N. Main St. Lyndonville, NY 14098. Please light a candle or share a memory of Billy at: www.bogantuttlefunerals.com

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; his stepsons: Sean Carey and Michael Carey both of Calif.; three 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 military honors will be held in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in West Shelby at a later date this spring. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Richard Knights / Sue Kaderli Memorial Fund, Inc., P.O. Box 684; Medina, New York 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

Ann C. Preston, of West Barre passed away Jan. 17, 2021. She was born Oct. 20, 1941 in Lockport to the late Henry and Vera (Martin) Class.

Ann was a 1960 graduate of Starpoint High School. She married the late Clarence Lloyd Preston on June 20, 1964. They moved around in the early years of their marriage before finally settling on Allis Road in West Barre in 1969. She was a devoted 4-H Leader and Volunteer for over 40 years.

She was an active member of the West Barre United Methodist Church and throughout her years as a church member she helped out with Vacation Bible School, the Annual Church Auction, the Annual Chicken Barbecue, and various other church suppers and activities. She also kept the church attendance, folded bulletins, and greeted folks on Sunday with a bulletin and a warm smile.

In her later years, she liked to keep in touch with friends via the phone and complete word search puzzles. Ann has descendants who came over on the Mayflower, most notably Mary Chilton and Francis Cook. Ann also had a great love for baking pies and cookies.

In addition to her parents, Ann was predeceased by her husband, Clarence in 2009; siblings: John in 1974, Linda in 1955; and brothers-in-law: Larry Preston, Bob Preston, and John Preston.

She is survived by her children: Terri (Jeff) DeDell, Jamie (Debbie) Preston, Michael Preston; brothers: Clip (Carol) Class, Tom (Joanie) Class; grandchildren: Emily Anderson, Erica DeDell, Jonathan DeDell, Oliva Richardson, Nathan DeDell, Sophia DeDell, Ryan Westfall, Nick Preston; great-grandchildren: Josie Anderson, Philipa DeDell, Iris DeDell, Kennedy Westfall, Denali Preston; sisters and brothers-in-law: Linda Preston, Dan (Lee) Preston, Margaret Preston; as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc. 21 West Ave., Albion, NY 14411 on Thu., Jan. 21 from 3-5 p.m. Ann’s memorial service will be held on Fri., Jan 22 at 11 a.m. at the West Barre United Methodist Church, 5377 Eagle Harbor Rd., Albion, NY, 14411.

Please note the Funeral Home will be operating at 33% capacity per state guidelines.  New York requires those in attendance to adhere to social distancing guidelines and face coverings are mandatory.

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

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

Marc F. Scarr (née Sciacchitano), 85, passed away peacefully on the morning of Jan. 18, 2021, at the University of Virginia Medial Center in Charlottesville, Va. Born May 23, 1935, in Brooklyn, NY, to the late Marco and Angela (Caraccia) Sciacchitano, Marc was preceded in death by his wife of 52 years, Susan D. Barry in 2010.

He is survived by his three children: Mary Westlund of Knowlesville, NY, Marc Scarr, Jr. of Medina, NY, and Richard (& Debra) Paradis of Seymour, Tenn.; seven grandchildren; and eleven great-grandchildren.

While serving in the Air Force, Marc earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Long Island University and then enjoyed a career in aviation investigations and insurance which allowed him to continue to see the world. Marc moved to Lyndonville, NY, in 1977 where he served as a member of the Village Board beginning in 1989 and was elected to three terms as Mayor, serving from 1998-2011.

He was an active member of the Lions Club, Masons Lodge, and volunteer fire department before retiring from politics and moving to Barboursville, Va. In Barboursville he enjoyed time with his beloved partner Debra Miller; visiting wineries; the warmer winters; reconnecting with local cousins; and entertaining out of town family and longtime friends to include Joan and Ronald Mahler.

Memorial services will be held later this year at the Lynhaven Cemetery in Lyndonville, NY.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to St. Jude Children’s Hospital. You are encouraged to share memories and condolences at: https://www.hillandwood.com/obituaries

Professor Asaf Durakovic M.D., Ph.D., D.V.M., D.Sc., F.A.C.P. May 16, 1940 – Dec. 16, 2020

Professor Asaf Durakovic died peacefully, Dec. 16, 2020, at the age of 80 at his home, Silver Spring, Md.

Dr. Durakovic founded World Life Institute (WLI) in 1986, an international humanitarian organization dedicated to education, research, and improving the quality of life on our planet. WLI has offices in Waterport and Medina, New York, Washington, DC, and Toronto, Canada.

WLI’s Project Life War Orphans Rehabilitation Program has brought more than 135 international war orphans to western New York since 1997. These orphans, from the troubled lands of Bosnia, the North Caucasus, Afghanistan, and Sri Lanka, stay for several months of education and recreation before returning to their homelands, renewed physically and psychologically. The children are hosted by local families with whom they form long-term bonds. These connections last long after the orphans return to their family members. Dr. Durakovic personally escorted some of the orphans to and from their home countries and enjoyed cooking meals and spending time with them at his summer home in Orleans County.

Through WLI, Dr. Durakovic established the Radiation Emergency Management program (REM) in the early 1990s. REM provided multi-disciplinary, university-level education on radiation-effects of nuclear war and nuclear accidents, and the medical management of radiation emergencies. In the past five years, WLI has continued this work through its Global Nuclear Awareness Program (GNA), headquartered at the WLI Colonade on West Center Street, Medina. GNA is designed to build deeper understanding of the current nuclear reality and the challenges it raises, through conferences, public presentations, certificate courses, and online programs.

Dr. Durakovic was Clinical Chief, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Veterans Administration Medical Center, Wilmington, DE, and Clinical Associate Chief, Nuclear Medicine, Walter Reed Army Medical Hospital, Washington, DC. In his military career, Colonel Durakovic served in the Army Medical Corps and was a veteran of Operation Desert Storm (Gulf War 1).

Dr. Durakovic was a great lover of culture and the arts and was an accomplished poet besides authoring over 225 scientific articles in his field of medicine. Perhaps he was best known in Orleans County for initiating the annual Leaves of September event at the Medina Colonade. These annual concerts by young performers of instrumental and vocal music, combined with readings of his poetry, have been a high point on the arts calendar for the past several years. Dr. Durakovic was humble about his many accomplishments, to the point that many were not aware that many of his poems were published in literary magazines and that some are even included in the Vatican’s Anthology of Spiritual Poetry on Christ.

Dr. Asaf Durakovic is survived by his loving wife, Julianne Hazen-Durakovic, Ph.D.; his two daughters:Adiya and Safiya; and his brother, Prof. Zijad Durakovic, M.D.

His funeral was held Dec. 18, 2020, at the beautiful and snow covered, rural Sufi retreat in Carlton, NY, where he is interred. Full military honors were provided by the Honor Guard from the Albion Legion during the funeral ceremony.

May God bless his soul and reward him for his lifelong dedication to good works and the alleviation of human suffering. He is a light and inspiration to his many friends and students worldwide and to all of mankind.