Obituaries

John Donovan “Jack” McKenna, 86, of Albion, passed away peacefully on July 27, 2020 after a long illness. Jack was born Feb. 5, 1934 in Albion to the late Mary and Joseph McKenna. (Yes, Mary and Joseph, but not that Mary and Joseph, despite what people might have said and thought at the time.)

Jack, aka “Jake the Snake” in his skinny college days, was a proud 1955 graduate and later recruiter for the State University of New York Maritime College. At school, he specialized as a navigator and subsequently served as an officer in the Navy on board the USS Antares and a ship’s officer for the Moore-McCormack Line in the Merchant Marine.

After deciding that dry land had some appeal after all, Jack completed pre-med sciences at the University of Rochester between 1963 and 1965 and graduated from SUNY Buffalo Dental School in 1969. He joined the faculty on a part time basis whilst running a private practice in Albion from 1969 to 1974, thereby earning the nickname “Doc” around town. He continued to teach and soon joined UB full time as Director of Patient Evaluation and Management, a position he would hold until he retired in 1996. Throughout his life, Jack never lost his love of the water and always looked forward to summers with his family at the McKenna cottage on Lake Ontario.

Jack was known for his quirky sense of humor, delighting his nieces, nephews, children, and generations of dental students with acts of mysterious levitation and disappearing limbs. JD, Doc, Jake the Snake, Papa Jack, Dad – he was an uncommonly gentle man who could explain the complex simply, yet weave a tall tale with such detail it just had to be true. He was a lifelong parishioner of Holy Family (formerly St. Joseph’s, named after his dad) even after moving to Buffalo from Albion in 1989.

Jack is survived by Karen, his devoted wife of nearly 49 years; their children, Joseph “Seph” (Stefanie) McKenna and Katherine “Kate” (Adam) McKenna; grandchildren, Bennet, Griffin and Everett; his sisters, Karen and Margot, and their families.

To watch Jack’s Mass of Christian Burial, please visit the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes website (click here) and watch the video posted below the obituary.

Jack’s family requests that any donations made in his honor be directed toward the Genesee Orleans Ministry of Concern, 121 N. Main St., Suite 311, Albion NY 14411.

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

Arlene M. (Campbell) Bowen, 84, of Clarendon, died July 27, 2020 at Orchard Rehabilitation and Nursing Center. She was born Dec. 29, 1935 in Ogdensburg, N.Y., a daughter of the late Alfred and Irene (White) Campbell, and had lived in this area since 1943.

Arlene was a lifetime member of St. Mary’s Church in Holley. She was very artistic – she wrote a book of poems, and she loved doing ceramics and crafts, sewing, reading, baking and cake decorating, making many wedding cakes for her family. Arlene was a very loving and devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, and a friend to everyone.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her brothers, Everett (Letha), Gerald (Edith), and Frank; and her sister, June (John) Rooney.

She is survived by her husband of 66 years, Lewis; her children, Charlotte (Gary) Trumble, James (Joy) Bowen, and Sherry Williams; grandchildren, Shannon (Chuck), Jennifer, Heather, Wendy (Robert), David (Kristin), Amanda (Shane), Joseph (Melinda); 18 great-grandchildren with one on the way; brothers, Arden (Tina) Campbell, Marie Elphic, John (Kathy) Campbell, and William (Kathy) Campbell; brothers and sisters-in-law, Norman (Vickie) Bowen, Sam Interlicchia, Harold (Jackie) Bowen, Jane (Wayne) Robinson, Janet Dennis, and Debbie Roe; as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family will receive friends at Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc., 16650 State Rte. 31, Holley NY 14470, on Fri., Aug. 14 from 4 to 7 p.m. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be Sat., Aug. 15 at 11 a.m. at St. Mary’s Church. Please note that all guests entering the funeral home or church will be required to wear a face mask.

Memorials may be made to Alzheimer’s of WNY, 6215 Sheridan Dr. Suite 100, Buffalo NY 14221.

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

Anita M. Virga, 85, of Medina, entered into rest on April 30, 2020 at The Villages of Orleans Health & Rehab Center in Albion.

Born Sept. 22, 1934 in Buffalo, she was a daughter of the late Samuel and Anna (Rosen) Jadofsky. On April 18, 1953, she married the late Frank A. Virga Jr. In the late 1960s, they moved to the Medina area, where they raised a family of nine children. Mrs. Virga worked for many years at Fisher-Price Toys in Medina, and then for BernzOmatic. She was a parishioner of the former Sacred Heart of Jesus R.C. Church and then Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church. Active in her community, Mrs. Virga was a member of Court Santa Maria #295, Catholic Daughters of the Americas, the Red Hat Society and the Buffalo Doll Club. She was an avid bowler, and she also enjoyed doll making.

Mrs. Virga was predeceased by her husband, Frank Virga Jr., in 1993.

She is survived by her nine children, Sandra (Thomas) Fritschi, Frank (Christine) Virga III; Bernadette George, Samuel (Betty) Virga, Anita (Jeffery) Dugan, Jennie Johnston, Christine Sutka, Susan Virga and Rosalind (Robert) Bingman; 18 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Her graveside committal service will be held on Mon., Aug. 3 at 10 a.m. in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Medina.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Anita’s name may be made to Holy Trinity Catholic Parish, 211 Eagle St., Medina NY 14103.

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

Richard J. “Rick” Maedl, 51, of Middleport, died July 28, 2020 peacefully in his home, following a long illness. He was born Sept. 29, 1968 in Medina to Robert and Julia (Simmons) Maedl and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Rick was a Roy-Hart graduate from the class of 1987 and received a degree in performing arts from NCCC. He was also a United States Marine Corps veteran and a member of Middleport United Methodist Church. Rick was an avid reader who loved to watch movies and play Dungeons & Dragons. He enjoyed family vacations to the Adirondacks and loved to fish. However, music was his true love, and he enjoyed performing with the Lake Plains Players and the Middleport Community Choir. He was truly a gentle giant.

Mr. Maedl was predeceased by his father, Robert.

He is survived by his children, Evan James Maedl and Owen Robert Maedl, both of Middleport; his mother, Julia Maedl of Middleport; sister, Heather Maedl of Middleport; two nieces, Malina Elizabeth and Blake Alexis; several aunts, uncles and cousins; and the grandmother of his children and special friend, Linda Cline.

There will be no calling hours. Family and friends are invited to attend a celebration of Rick’s life on Fri., July 31 at his home, 11 Maedl Drive in Middleport, beginning at 2 p.m. Please bring a mask and observe social distancing guidelines. Private interment in Hartland Cemetery will take place at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Middleport United Methodist Church, 9 Park Ave., Middleport NY 14105.

Rick’s arrangements have been entrusted to Bates, Wallace & Heath Funeral Home, Middleport. To share a special memory of Rick, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Arthur J. Weits, 96, of Albion, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2020 at his daughter’s home, under the loving care of his family. Art was born at home in Carlton on Sept. 6, 1923, a son of Frederick and Afina (Wallinga) Weits, who originally came from The Netherlands.

He was a member of the Presbyterian Church of Albion, serving as elder and deacon, and on the building and grounds committee for over 73 years. He enjoyed working with fellow parishioners Ted Church, Dick Eddy, Donald Ross, Gordy Gardner, Dennis Kirby and Gary Plummer. He was also a former member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows Lodge for over 25 years.

In his early years of work, Art built fighter planes during World War II at Curtis Wright in Buffalo, and then moved on to working as a car mechanic for Jim Hubbell’s garage for many years. After leaving the garage, he worked for General Electric Co. for 23 years as a machinist. He received various citations and monetary awards for his innovative safety improvements on machinery and production of small appliances. After the G.E. plant closing, he went to work for Black & Decker until he retired in 1989. He was also a car mechanic for over 40 years.

Art enjoyed attending old car shows and steam engine shows. His love was traveling all over the U.S. with his wife, Arlene. They visited 43 states in various campers and a motorhome. They also traveled abroad to England and The Netherlands. Family was important to Art, especially being with his children and grandchildren at many family functions.

Mr. Weits was predeceased by his brother, Herman, in 1982; his son-in-law, Bruce Wright, in 2008; his wife of 60 years, Arlene, in 2012; and his son, John, in 2017.

Art is survived by his daughters, Cheryl Wright of Albion and Nancy (Ronald) Horth of Waterport; daughter-in-law, Suzanne Weits of Churchville; grandchildren, including Vicki (Bruce) London, Bruce K. (Angie) Wright, Jason (Karen) Horth, Katie (Peter) Smith, John (Tamie) Weits, Steven (Beth) Weits, and Christy Burda; great-grandchildren, Evan (Erin) London, Logan (Cam) London-Fowler, Cole London, Aaron (Kaitlyn) Wright, Brandon Wright, Leyton Horth, Farrah Horth, Myles Horth, Keira Faith Smith, John (Amy) Weits III, Cindy Weits, Kaylyn Weits, Braden Weits, Justine Burda, and Adam Burda; great-great-grandchildren, Elliott London, Eli London, Everett London, and two more little ones on the way; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Art’s funeral service will be held at Albion First Presbyterian Church, 29 E. State St., Albion, on Sat., Aug. 1 at 11 a.m. Interment will be in Transit Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Albion Presbyterian Church, 29 E. State St., Albion NY 14411.

Art’s arrangements have been entrusted to Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc., 21 West Ave., Albion. To share a special memory of Art, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

John Roberts, 64, of Lockport, passed away in the early hours of Sun., July 26, 2020. We must say goodbye to the most patient and loving husband, father, grandfather and friend we could have ever hoped for. He tried so hard to stay with us and fight, but his cancer had other plans.

He leaves behind his wife of 46 years, Linda Roberts (née Tylec); his two children, Brea (James) Herrington and Wesley (Alexandra) Roberts; the brightest stars in his world, granddaughters Ella and Claudia Herrington; and his lifelong friend, Jeff Brown.

John was the youngest of five – his oldest brother, Alan Roberts, predeceased him. Left to mourn their loss are his sisters, Marilyn Coleman and Patricia (Ronald) Orlando; his brother, Phillip (Margo) Roberts; sister-in-law, Kim Jurney; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

John adored his family, friends and acquaintances and was equally adored by them! We will never fill the hole left in our hearts by his passing, but the memories are many – his smile, his ever-present cup of coffee, his countless projects, and his love and dedication to us all.

His family will hold a memorial at Prudden and Kandt Funeral Home, 242 Genesee St., Lockport, on Fri., July 31 from 3 to 6 p.m., to share memories and stories of John’s life. Please be sure to wear a mask to help keep this memorial as safe as possible.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Niagara Hospice would be appreciated.

It is with sadness that the family of Lawrence “Larry” Krolak announces his passing to metastatic prostate cancer on Tue., July 14, 2020, at the age of 85. Larry died ever so peacefully at his home in Vero Beach, Fla., surrounded by his loving wife of 60 years, Virginia (née Hessel); and daughter, Mary Krolak.

Larry was born on Dec. 8, 1934 in Barker, a son of the late Leon and Isabelle (née Shulanski) Krolak. He was a skilled contractor who remodeled homes and small businesses in Middleport and the surround. Spanning the 1970s, he served three terms as Middleport’s mayor. In his free time, Larry enjoyed building boats, and he became a Fourth Degree member of the Knights of Columbus.

In retirement, Larry volunteered extensively at the Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute in Ft. Pierce, Fla. He enjoyed oil painting and working on projects for his home. Larry was the embodiment of the value of hard work, of quiet resilience in the face of controversy, of humor and wit, and of the strength to always do what was right. May his memory be a blessing to his family and to a lifetime’s worth of friends.

Larry is survived by his wife, Virginia of Vero Beach; his children, Larry (Margaret) Krolak of Middleport, Mary Krolak of Vero Beach, and Elizabeth (Lee) Scheinbart of Melbourne, Fla. He was a most loving Poppy to Abby, Leah, Sam, Emma, Andy and Jack.

Larry wished for his ashes to be privately interred at Hartland Central Cemetery.

Memorials may be made in Larry’s honor to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memorial Giving, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN 38105.

John Creg Lawton, 62, of Middleport, passed away unexpectedly on July 24, 2020 at Medina Memorial Hospital from a massive heart attack. He was born July 20, 1958 in Sacramento, Calif. to the late Elwood and Viola (Sarrile) Lawton.

John served his country in the U.S. Navy from 1976 to 1982. John was a man who had an amazing work ethic. He worked hard for years to make a life for his family. John motivated both of his children to join building trades, and they carried on his passion for working with metals. John was always happy to hear or tell jokes and would talk to anyone. His wishes were no sadness or grief, and please have a shot for him and remember all the good times!

In addition to his parents, John was predeceased by his sister, Karen Lawton.

John is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Diane; children, Nicole (Dylan Okonski) Lawton and Mike Lawton; siblings, Julieanna (James) Berry and Barbera (Phillip) Wallinger; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

There are no calling hours. John’s Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Trinity Parish – St. Stephen’s Church, 19 Vernon St., Middleport NY 14105, on Thu., July 30 at 11 a.m. Please note that all guests entering the church must wear a face mask. Interment with military honors will follow in St. Stephen’s Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in John’s name may be made to the family to share, as were his wishes.

John’s arrangements have been entrusted to Bates, Wallace & Heath Funeral Home, Middleport. To share a special memory of John, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Deborah L. (Deyarmin) Sterrett, 63, of Mooresville, N.C. and formerly of Medina, passed away on Fri., Jan. 10, 2020 at her residence.

She was born on Sept. 22, 1956 in Medina to the late Richard and Lois (Waters) Deyarmin. Debi worked as a security guard for Lowe’s Corporate Headquarters in North Carolina, from which she retired. She enjoyed riding with her husband on his motorcycle, camping, trips to the mountains, and working in the yard, and she loved spending time with her family.

Debi is survived by her husband of 14 years, Michael “Joe” Sterrett; daughter, Katherine Deyarmin; stepchildren, Jessica Sterrett and Michael Sterrett; siblings, Sheryl (late Duane) McKee, Regina Schunk, Darryl “Joe” (Jeannie) Deyarmin and Guy “Swany” (Trini) Deyarmin; grandchildren, Jocelyn, Aleiha, Jase, Emery and Addie; sister in-law, Kim; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her brother, Bruce Deyarmin.

Calling hours will be held on Sat., Aug. 1 from 12 to 2 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Masks and social distancing will be required. Burial will immediately follow at Bates Road Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Serenity House, 110 Centre Church Road, Mooresville NC 28117.

Please share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

Patricia M. Shelp, 86, of Albion, passed away July 25, 2020 at her home, while under the loving care of her family. Pat was born in Medina on Oct. 29, 1933, daughter of the late J. Kenneth and Ethel (Hudson) Moriarty.

She was a member of Albion First Presbyterian Church, where she served as a Deacon and an Elder and was on countless committees. As a faculty member of the Albion Central School District, she worked as a third grade teacher, a speech therapist and a librarian. Pat was honored in her tenure as Teacher of the Year and co-designed the primary school library. She was awarded a Paul Harris Fellow by the Albion Rotary Club.

Pat enjoyed gardening, and she took great pride that she still had her very first car, a 1954 Chevrolet Belair convertible. For several years, on the anniversary of the passing of their son Jim, Pat and Brad delivered bread from the Abbey of the Genesee to family and friends in his memory. She was a woman who absolutely loved her children and grandchildren without question.

Mrs. Shelp was predeceased by her son, Bradley James Jr.; and her sister, Joanne Squire.

Pat is survived by her husband of 63 years, Bradley; her son, David (Ann) Shelp of Pittsford; grandchildren, James and Danielle; brother-in-law, Ralph Squire; and several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends at Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc., 21 West Ave., Albion, on Wed., July 29 from 4 to 7 p.m. Please note that all guests entering the funeral home or church will be required to wear a face mask. Pat’s funeral service will be held at Albion First Presbyterian Church, 29 E. State St., Albion, on Thu., July 30 at 11 a.m. Interment will be in Mt. Albion Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Bradley James Shelp Jr. Scholarship, c/o Albion High School Alumni Foundation, P.O. Box 345, Albion NY 14411; or to Albion First Presbyterian Church, 29 E. State St., Albion NY 14411; or to Bradley J. Shelp Jr. Accounting Scholarship, c/o Canisius College, 2001 Main St., Buffalo NY 14208; or to Hospice of Orleans, P.O. Box 489, Albion NY 14411.

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

Margaret J. “Marge” Porter, 93, of Brockport, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2020. She was born April 10, 1927 in Lockport to the late George and Veronica (Pozarzycki) Lowe.

Marge worked for GM for many years before retiring. She enjoyed refinishing furniture, doing stained glass work, quilting, leatherwork, and snowbirding in Citra, Fla.

In addition to her parents, Marge was predeceased by her brother, Gordon; and her stepson, Gerald Porter Jr.

Marge is survived by her loving husband of 44 years, Gerald; daughters, Sandy (Terry) Lund and Terri (Steve) Keenan; stepson, Jim (Susie) Porter; stepdaughter, Debbie (Mike) Horton; 14 grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren.

There are no calling hours. Marge’s Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wed., July 29 at 11 a.m. at Church of Nativity of the BVM, 152 Main St., Brockport NY 14420. Interment will follow at Cold Springs Cemetery, Lockport.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Marge’s name may be made to your favorite charity.

Margaret’s arrangements have been entrusted to Sherrie Bream Funeral Home, 4521 Main St., Gasport NY 14067. To share a special memory of Margaret, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Ronald M. Marx Sr., 54, of Albion, died July 24, 2020 unexpectedly at his home. He was born Feb. 18, 1966 in Rochester to Kenneth and Shirley (Johnson) Marx Sr. and was a lifetime resident of this area.

Ron enjoyed working on cars, fishing, and teaching his children the many lessons of life that you can’t learn from a book. He loved to fish and was always willing to help his neighbors out. Ron was very family-oriented, was a loving brother, and truly enjoyed being a grandpa.

He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Dawn; his children, Ronald (Gwen) Marx Jr. of Brockport, Samantha (Zachary) Loy of Vermont, Daniel (Brittany Rosario) Marx of Albion, Amanda (Jason Stout) Marx of Lockport, and Dylan (Skye Rotoli) Marx of Albion; brothers, Kenneth (Michelle) Marx of Florida, and Steve Marx of Ontario, N.Y.; grandchildren, Penelope, Miles, Makenna, Savannah, Olivia, Annalyn, Tanner, Oliver and Puppy; as well as several nieces and nephews.

There will be no calling hours. Private service and interment will take place at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to American Lung Association, 55 W. Wacker Drive, Suite 1150, Chicago IL 60601.

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

Stanley A. Thurber, 87, of Medina, began his eternal life with Jesus on Thu., July 23, 2020. Stan was born to the late Gordon and Esther Thurber on Oct. 24, 1932.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Ann M. (Davis), whom he married on Aug. 16, 1952.

His loving and vivacious spirit lives on through his four surviving children, Vicky (Darrell) Klotzbach, Daniel (Diane) Thurber of Medina, Scott (Deborah) Thurber of Phoenix, Ariz., and Julie (Rick) Mufford of Lyndonville; his brother, Roger (Katherine) Thurber of Basom; his 15 grandchildren, Darelyn, Mark, Joy, Andrew, Michelle, Sam, Jerod, Matthew, Rick Jr., Whitney, Nathaniel, Katelyn, Bethany, Timothy and Heather; his 28 (soon to be 29!) great-grandchildren; and his close ministry partner of the past three years, Dawn DiPaolo.

Stan “The Happy Man” touched the lives of boundless individuals through his lifelong service to the public, his country, and the ministry. He served as a member of the U.S. Air Force from 1951 to 1953, after which he returned home to operate his business, Stan’s Heating and Electric.  But what he valued above all was his 65+ years of service to the ministry, teaching others about his “best friend Jesus.” He built the Oak Orchard Assembly of God Church in Ridgeway, where he was pastor for 41 years. After retirement, he continued to minister to everyone (even those he only met once) through Stan’s Grams – his “Ministry by Mail,” along with several other special ministry groups.

We are blessed to have learned many valuable lessons from Stan during his 87 years. Among them: you can make anything work with a few zip ties and a little duct tape; sing a song to everyone you meet; feed every animal (and person!) you see; and never miss dessert! More importantly, he taught us: we could make anything work with Jesus; to offer unfailing love to everyone we meet; to be patriotic; to take care of each other; and never miss an opportunity to share the Gospel. It is our family’s greatest pleasure to rejoice with all the angels of heaven to celebrate the home-going of Stanley A. Thurber.

Calling hours will be held on Tue., July 28 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Oak Orchard Assembly of God Church. These will be followed with a memorial service on Wed., July 29 at 1 p.m. Due to the innumerable lives he touched, the service will also be streamed live on Facebook on the Oak Orchard Assembly of God Facebook page. Any donations or flowers may be sent directly to Oak Orchard Assembly of God at 12111 Ridge Road, Medina NY 14103.

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

Barbara J. Bernard, 80, of Middleport, passed away July 23, 2020 while under the loving care of her family and Niagara Hospice. Barbara was born May 9, 1940 in Middleport, a daughter of the late Earl and Lena (Koester) McKee.

Barbara was a secretary and graduate of Royalton-Hartland High School. She was a member of Holy Trinity Parish – St. Stephen’s Church. Barbara retired Oct. 1, 1998 from GM after 30 years of service. She enjoyed knitting, crocheting, painting, and playing cards. Barbara loved spending time with her family.

She was predeceased by her husband, Lawrence “Frank” Bernard Jr.; and her siblings, Warren, Darwin, Jerry and Charles McKee, and Shirley Brinley.

She is survived by her children, Daniel (Linda) Bernard and Shari (Donald Jr.) Heschke; grandchildren, Jeremy (Sara) Bernard, Emily (Eric) Lunde, Tristan, Ian and Casidhe; great-grandchildren, Lucy, Reagan, Hattie and Whit Lunde, Henry, Quinn and Maren Bernard; sisters, Virginia Thaxter and Audrey Warner; sisters-in-law, Marilyn, Barbara and Barbara McKee; brother-in-law, Richard Brinley; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family will receive friends at Bates, Wallace & Heath Funeral Home, 38 State St., Middleport, on Mon., July 27 from 4 to 7 p.m. Please note that all guests entering the funeral home or church must wear a face mask. Barbara’s Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Trinity Parish – St. Stephen’s Church, 19 Vernon St., Middleport, on Tue., July 28 at 10 a.m. Interment will be in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Niagara Hospice, 4675 Sunset Drive, Lockport NY 14094; or to Roswell Park Alliance Foundation, P.O. Box 631, Buffalo NY 14240; or to the church.

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

Kenneth Morris Brien, 56, of Holley, died July 22, 2020 in his home following a short illness. He was born Nov. 15, 1963 in Brockport to Robert and Patricia (Hayes) Brien and lived in this area most of his life.

Ken worked for the Gary DeFillips Construction Company as a trim carpenter. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping, and he was a very social person who enjoyed hanging out with his friends.

Mr. Brien was predeceased by a brother, Michael Brien.

He is survived by his wife of over 20 years, Diane; his children, Catherine Broadus of North Carolina and Kenny Michael Brien of Colorado; his siblings, Rob Brien of Medina, Jamie Brien of Greece, Diana Sheedy of Rochester, and Cheri Shaw of Holley; and one granddaughter.

There will be no calling hours. Private services will take place at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to American Cancer Society, 1120 S. Goodman St., Rochester NY 14620.

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

Nancy Marie (Parsons) Hopper, 70, of Medina, died peacefully at home surrounded by her family on Thu., July 16, 2020. She was born on May 29, 1950 in Penn Yan, N.Y., a daughter of the late James and Dorothy (Delamarter) Parsons.

Nancy was a devoted mother to her five children.

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

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

Katherine J. Page, 64, of Medina, passed away with grace and peace during the early hours of July 16, 2020, after battling pancreatic cancer. She was surrounded by her soulmate and husband of 46 years, Dennis Page; and her children, Patti (David Green) Page, Jeff (Amanda) Page, Tim (Stef) Page, Scott Page and Sara Page.

Kathy was a dedicated grandmother to Trevor, Lexi, Ethan, Maddie, Kirsten, Irelyn, Jackson, Dylan and Emily.

She cherished time spent with her lifelong friends, Kathy Hartway, Gina Colonna, Cindy Baker, Gloria Gruber, Heidi Bensley and Jenna Grier.

Kathy was predeceased by her parents, Orville and Natalie (Polick) Evans; and sisters, Mary Ann, Pauline, Cindy and Cheri. She was at peace knowing they were waiting for her with open arms.

Kathy’s favorite pastimes were playing Yahtzee, Skip-Bo and bingo; and, most importantly, spending time with her family and friends. She loved taking road trips with her travel buddies, Denny and Sara. She enjoyed summertime, when she could be outside with her family.

Kathy’s family will forever be grateful to all those who reached out and offered support, comfort and meals during this difficult time.

Viewing will be held on Tue., July 21 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated immediately following at 12:30 p.m. at Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church, 211 Eagle St., Medina.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Kathy’s honor to Hospice of Orleans, P.O. Box 489, Albion NY 14411; or to Roswell Park Cancer Institute.

Share memories and condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

Bertie Tullis, 80, of Lyndonville, was born in Saginaw, Mich. to Ralph and Vivienne Tullis on July 19, 1939. She was kind, compassionate, caring, strong-willed and strong-minded.

She was a character; and she loved her wife, Patty Nagel, with all her heart.

Bertie left us after a brief, difficult and valiant struggle with cancer. Patty is so very thankful to family, friends, caregivers, and Hospice of Orleans County.

Bertie loved animals and nature. She was an avid birder. She and Patty built their dream home in the woods on the shores of Lake Ontario, a spot where birds were abundant, deer roamed the back yard, and you could sit on the front porch and watch the sunset over the lake. There together, they would raise their beloved four-legged kids, Buddy and Callie. To Patty and Bertie, they were much more than a couple of rescued cats.

The two met via the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, at the Patuxent Research Refuge in Patuxent, Md. Patty was the Volunteer Coordinator at the National Wildlife Visitor Center on this National Wildlife Refuge property. Bertie, a volunteer, donated her time and talent to build trails and welcome visitors.

Bertie lived a life of service to others. She served our nation in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War era. Based on this experience, she would go on to serve her community as a nurse practitioner, retiring from Bowie Health Center in Bowie, Md.

She loved to read, loved a good laugh, and loved helping to make special moments happen for others while staying quietly out of the limelight. Bertie didn’t mind an occasional hard cider or Jack Daniel’s and Coke. She grew up loving the Detroit Lions and, in time and with patience, learned to love the Buffalo Bills. She was a loving, supportive person who cherished family.

Bertie was predeceased by sisters, Genevieve Hogan and Delores; and brothers, Richard, Ralph and Willis.

She is survived by sisters, Janet (Bremer) and Valerie (Probst); and many special nieces, nephews and dear friends.

She will be dearly missed by the family into which she married: the late Jim and Ruth Daigler; Patty’s siblings and extended family, Danny (Susan), Donna (Paul) Kankiewicz, Jim (Betty), Mike (late Linda), Sue (Don) Carlson, John (Nancy), Ellen (Ken) Giblin, Greg, and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

Bertie is survived, admired, adored, missed and loved by many – none more so than Patty.

Services will be private.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Yates Community Library, 15 N Main St., Lyndonville NY 14098, (585) 765-9041, or through PayPal (click here). Through your thoughtfulness and a gift from Patty and Bertie, Bertie will be celebrated by helping to develop the library’s outdoor area for their Summer Concert Series. On summer nights, in the heart of Lyndonville, listening to the music under the trees was a way Bertie loved living.

John L. Hinkley, 40, of Albion, died July 17, 2020 at United Memorial Medical Center in Batavia, following a courageous battle with cancer. He was born Feb. 9, 1980 in Albion, a son of Susan (David) Polisoto and Chester Hinkley, and he lived in this area all of his life.

John graduated in 1998 from Albion High School, where he played soccer and football. He worked for many years as a drill press operator at Brunner Inc. in Medina. John loved playing softball.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by his children, Hannah and Dominick Hinkley of Albion; brother, Jeremy (Dawn) Hinkley of Rochester; sister, Jennifer (Glenn) Allport of Tennessee; best friends, Corey Vanameron and Kim Albanese; as well as several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

His Celebration of Life service will be announced at a later date.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc., Albion. To share a special memory of John, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Ronald R. “Butch” Radzinski, 86, of Gaines, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2020. He was born June 25, 1934 in Albion to the late Henry and Agnes (Daniels) Radzinski.

Butch served his country in the U.S. Army from 1954 to 1956. He owned and operated H & A Superette in Gaines for 42 years. Butch, for many years, was a Town of Gaines councilman, the Town of Gaines Supervisor, and a County legislator. In his spare time, he enjoyed hunting, golfing, playing cards with his friends, and reading the Buffalo News and the Batavia Daily News. Butch enjoyed watching New York Yankees games, and the most precious thing in his life was his family, which he loved dearly.

Butch is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Pauline; children, Gayle (David) Ashbery and Mark (Brenda) Radzinski; grandchildren, Douglas (Jennifer) Ashbery, Kimberly Ashbery, Jeffrey (Haley Wetherbee) Ashbery, Joseph (Amy Jessmer) Radzinski, and Mollie Radzinski; great-grandchildren, Mallory and Madalyn Ashbery; brother, Dan (Debbie) Radzinski; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family will receive friends at Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc., 21 West Ave., Albion NY 14411, on Sun., July 19 from 1 to 4 p.m. Please note that all guests, upon entering the funeral home, are required to wear a face mask or facial covering. His Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Family Parish – St. Joseph’s Church, W. Park Street, Albion NY 14411, on Mon., July 20 at 10 a.m. Interment with military honors will follow in Mt. Albion Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in Butch’s name may be made to Orleans County Sportsmen’s Federation, P.O. Box 221, Albion NY 14411; or to Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America, 355 Lexington Ave., 15th Floor, New York NY 10017.

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