Obituaries

Posted December 01 2020

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Posted April 23 2020
Avis “Arlene” Murphy

Avis Murphy

Avis “Arlene” Murphy left this Earth to be reunited with those who have gone before her into eternity on April 22, 2020. Her infectious smile, endless love and feisty demeanor will be missed by many.

Arlene was born Sept. 11, 1934 in Fola, W.Va., a daughter to the late Richmond and Esta Holcomb. She shared her childhood home with seven other siblings. There, she met her lifelong partner, the late Arza “Burrel” Murphy, whom she married on March 3, 1952. They made their home in Lyndonville and raised five sons. Arlene worked her way through to retirement while also cultivating her love of gardening on their farm. Anyone who has driven down Route 18 knows where Murphy’s Berry Farm was, and has more than likely engaged in a long and laughter-filled conversation with Arlene. She had an unparalleled love for all people and found joy in the simple sharing of time. If she could talk you through the door, you would be offered a hot cup of coffee and a fresh, warm, homemade biscuit and told to stay a while. There was no need to rush – something perhaps we have all learned to appreciate in the last few months.

Arlene is predeceased by her husband, Arza Burrel Murphy, in 2012; three sons, Quinton Murphy, Duane Murphy and Kevin Murphy; brother, Roger Holcomb; and sister, Lorene Brege.

Left behind to await our own reunion are Arlene’s sons, Randy (Judy) Murphy and Anthony (Lisa) Murphy; daughter-in-law, Kathy Murphy; grandchildren, Kathryn (Tim) Richards, Christopher (Jocelyn) Murphy, Tricia (Ian) Goodrich, Tyler Murphy, Timothy Murphy, Steven Murphy, Sherry Edkin, Wanda Edkin, Samantha Murphy and Melodi Murphy; great-grandchildren, Sage Staschak, Phoenix Roy, Izabella Murphy and Alexander Goodrich; great-great-grandchild, Asa Lee Staschak; and sisters, Vae Taylor, Genevieve Gibson, Barbara Sanders, Retta Brown and Judy Elkins.

Until we meet again in that big beautiful kitchen in the sky, please know that we are all grateful for the time and love that you gave so willingly to each of us.

A private graveside committal will take place at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Shelby. A memorial service will be held for Arlene at a later date.

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

Posted April 23 2020
William F. Ames

William Ames

American flag

William F. “Bill” Ames, 89, of Medina, entered into eternal rest on April 22, 2020.

Bill was born on Nov. 2, 1930 in Knowlesville and was the son of the late LeRoy and Helen (Frost) Ames. He was a graduate of Medina High School, class of 1948. He earned his Eagle Scout award when he was 17. He played with the MACS semi-pro football team for several years. Bill married his high school sweetheart, Martha (Fortunato) Ames, on June 6, 1950. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in December 1950 and proudly served his country from 1950 to 1954, during the Korean War. Bill went on to earn his master’s degree in physical education. He began his career as a physical education teacher in Silver Creek, N.Y. in 1955, went on to teach physical education in Neptune, N.J., and came back to Medina to teach physical education from 1964 until his retirement in 1985. Not only did he influence many young people as an educator, he also inspired many athletes by coaching football and wrestling. This led to his most recent capstone achievement – being awarded the Niagara Orleans Foundation Award for his dedicated service to Medina athletic teams, district and community. Bill really loved hunting, fishing, boating, woodworking, and serving as a Mason. He especially loved spending time with his grandchildren.

Bill is survived by the love of his life for 70 years, Martha (Fortunato) Ames; a son, William (Cindy) Ames; a daughter, Susan (John) Fuller; a grandson, William Ames; granddaughters, Megan (Nick) Hermann and Kaitlyn (Evan Barnebey) Gang; great-grandsons, William and Jacob Hermann; and many nieces and nephews.

Bill was predeceased by two grandsons, Joseph Ames and Daniel Gang; and his brother, Robert (Joan) Ames of Lockport.

There will be no calling hours. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials would be greatly appreciated in Bill’s name to Alzheimer’s Association of Western NY, 2805 Wehrle Drive, Suite 6, Williamsville NY 14221; or to Hospice of Orleans, PO Box 489, Albion NY 14411; or to a charity of your choice.

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

Posted April 22 2020
Helen K. Tillman

Helen Tillman

Helen K. “Lynn” (Elensky) Tillman, 93, of Albion, passed away peacefully April 21, 2020. She was born Nov. 7, 1926 in Rochester, a daughter of the late Michael and Amelia (Dubinski) Elensky. Lynn was a member of Holy Family Parish – St. Joseph’s Church and enjoyed golfing and wintering in Barbados.

Lynn was predeceased by her loving husband, William “Bill” Tillman, on April 22, 2017; and by her brother, Edward Elensky.

She is survived by her sons, Thomas Tillman and Mark (Susyn) Tillman; grandchildren, Amber, Derek and Samantha; great-grandchildren, Elijah and James; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Lynn’s funeral service and interment at St. Joseph’s Cemetery will be private.

In lieu of flowers, please purchase a gift certificate from your favorite local restaurant.

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

Posted April 21 2020
Buddy L. Berner

Buddy BernerBuddy L. Berner, 77, of Holley, passed away suddenly at his home on Mon., April 20, 2020. Buddy was born Aug. 5, 1942 in Medina, a son of the late Kenneth and Alice (Klump) Berner. He was a graduate of Royalton-Hartland High School, class of 1960. After graduation, Buddy started working for Eastman Kodak Co., and he retired from there after many years of loyal service. He was an avid pheasant and deer hunter. Buddy also loved watching the New York Yankees and NASCAR, attending car shows and restoring cars. Mr. Berner loved spending time outside tending to his garden and his well-manicured lawn.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister, Beverly Craig.

Buddy is survived by his loving daughters, Kathy Berner and Wendy Berner, both of Holley; adoring granddaughter, Kamryn Berner; brother, Brian (Susan) Berner; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

The Berner family would have loved to have held public services but, with the current recommendations of the CDC, will have a private funeral service. Interment will be in Hillside Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the charity of your choice.

Buddy’s arrangements have been entrusted to Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc., 16650 Route 31, Holley NY 14470. To share a special memory of Buddy, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Posted April 21 2020
Carlos “Charlie” Rodriguez

Carlos RodriguezCarlos “Charlie” Rodriguez, 65, of Humacao, Puerto Rico and formerly of Medina, passed away on April 20, 2020 at his home after a short battle with prostate cancer. He was born on Aug. 14, 1954 in Puerto Rico.

Carlos is survived by three children, Sonya M. (Aaron) Moss of Medina, Gloria A. (Shane) Harmer of Medina, and Cruz M. (Geoffrey) Holmes of Gasport; nine grandchildren, Corey Rodriguez, Aliana Raines, Elexus Rodriguez, Amayalis Moss, Aryn Moss, Bradley Smith, Dianna Smith, Xavier Holmes and Zander Rodriguez; five great-grandchildren, Austin Rodriguez, Cassandra Rodriguez, Emmett Rodriguez, Kayden Chmylak and Alyvia Chmylak; and several brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, and a brother.

A private service will be held by the family in Puerto Rico.

Posted April 21 2020
Joy Lea Wieme

Joy Lea Wieme, 70, of Albion, passed away due to COVID-19 on April 20, 2020. She was born Aug. 31, 1949 in Rochester, N.Y.

Joy loved to cook, enjoyed taking care of her pets, and was known as a motorcycle nut. She had a beautiful personality.

She is survived by her loving husband of 29 years, James; sister, Melanie; and countless friends.

Services will be held privately and at the convenience of the family.

Memorial contributions in Joy’s name may be made to Multiple Sclerosis Association of America, 375 Kings Highway North, Cherry Hill NJ 08034.

Joy’s arrangements have been entrusted to Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc., 21 West Ave., Albion NY 14411. To share a special memory of Joy, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Posted April 21 2020
Christopher L. Andrew

Christopher AndrewAmerican flagChristopher L. Andrew, 39, passed away April 19, 2020 in Niagara Hospice House. He was born Sept. 30, 1980 in Medina, a son of Sandra (Miguel Cabanas) Schwab Andrew and Lawrence Andrew.

Christopher served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1998 to 2001 and worked as a salesman for Ashley Furniture in Frisco, Texas. Growing up, he enjoyed helping out on the family farm (Schwab Farm). Christopher also enjoyed fishing, hunting, attending concerts and playing cards, and he was a Buffalo Bills and Sabres fan.

Besides his parents, Christopher is also survived by his daughter, Emeri Andrew; siblings, Michelle, Scott and Sara Andrew; niece, Deanna Andrew; Abimael Garcia (Miguel’s son); and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Relatives and friends will be invited to a memorial service to be held at a later date.

Donations to Niagara Hospice or Roswell Park Cancer Institute would be appreciated.

Click here to visit Prudden and Kandt Funeral Home in Lockport.

Posted April 20 2020
Linda M. Cecchini

Linda Cecchini

Linda M. Cecchini, 78, of Medina, passed away on Sat., April 18, 2020 at the Lockport Rehab and Health Care Center. Born on March 25, 1942 in Elmira, N.Y., she was the daughter of the late Theodore John and Edith (Bauer) Gallus.

Linda graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1960 and attended Iowa State University. Later, she graduated from the University of Connecticut with a bachelor’s degree in dairy science. She married the late John J. Cecchini on Aug. 25, 1962 and raised six children in Connecticut, where they purchased their first dairy farm. Linda and John owned and operated Stone Barn Farm in Medina. The family took great pride in their farm, being instrumental in sustainable farming and gaining the high praise of being certified organic. Linda was constantly teaching her love of farming and gardening to her family and passed on her significant love of the land. She was an accomplished botanist and Master Gardener. In her spare time, Linda enjoyed acrylic painting, making several unique pieces featuring plants and animals.

Linda is survived by five children, John M. (Jessica) Cecchini of East Shelby, Jacqueline Barends of Fremont, Mich., Jason F. (Jennifer) Cecchini of Medina, Justin S. (Julie) Cecchini of Medina, and Jevon A. (Ashley) of Victor, N.Y.; 14 grandchildren, Tyler Coy and John Cecchini, Mercedes and Isaiah Barends, Jason, Jaiden, Noah, Aria and Willow Cecchini; Joseph, Jack and Jenna Cecchini; and Evelyn and Oona Cecchini; a great-granddaughter, Myah; two nieces, Katie Cecchini and Alicia Gallus; and a nephew, John Gallus.

Besides her parents and husband, she is predeceased by a daughter, Jennifer-Sue Cecchini; and a
brother, John Gallus.

There are no calling hours. A private service will be held by the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Linda’s name may be made to the World Wildlife Fund or the Cornell Cooperative Extension Master Gardener program.

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

Posted April 19 2020
Rose M. Dudnelly

Rose DudnellyRose M. Dudnelly, 95, of Hartland and formerly of Buffalo, passed away at her home on April 18, 2020. She was born May 8, 1924 in Buffalo to the late Felice and Theresa (Merola) Viggiano.

Rose loved animals of all shapes and sizes, especially cats, and she enjoyed gardening. Mrs. Dudnelly was very proud that she worked as a riveter for Bell Aircraft during World War II. She enjoyed being very active during her youth, and she always had a fiery personality tempered with kindness and humor.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Cecil James Dudnelly, in 2008; siblings, Jenny Pegnia, Mary Gargiulio, Sue Parisi, Joseph Viggiano and Ann Teti.

Rose is survived by her children, Arlene Dudnelly, James (Glenda) Dudnelly, Joan (Michael) Kozlowski and Juliette Merrolla; grandchildren, Carin (Scott) Tauriello, Kevin (Jillian) Kozlowski, Kyle Kozlowski, Cristin Kozlowski and James Dudnelly Jr.; great-grandchildren, Orrin Tauriello, Adelaide Tauriello, Camille Tauriello and Elodie Kozlowski; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Services will be held privately and at the convenience of the family. Rose will be laid to rest with her husband, Cecil, at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery in Annville, Pa.

Memorial contributions in Rose’s name may be made to Operation Pets, 3443 South Park Ave., Buffalo NY 14219.

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

Posted April 18 2020
Donna Marie (Denton) Wodrich

Donna WodrichDonna Marie (Denton) Wodrich, of Knowlesville, passed away unexpectedly at her home on April 17, 2020. Donna won a lot of battles over health issues and, most recently, went into remission with her fight against cancer. She was born Dec. 13, 1962 to Clifford and Helen (Van Orden) Denton.

Donna enjoyed spending her time sewing, gardening, and being outdoors, and she was always finding the need to clean something. She loved listening to “happy music” and especially loved the Christmas season. Donna had a contagious laugh and was a very strong-willed and determined woman. She often said, “If there’s a will, there’s a way.” Her greatest love was being around her children and grandchildren, who were her little “rays of sunshine.”

Donna was predeceased by her father, Clifford.

Donna is survived by her mother, Helen; husband, Leo; children, Jennifer Weber (Rouse) and Zachary (Alyssa) Rouse; granddaughters, Cheyanne and Tessa Rouse; siblings, Helen (Tommy) Clewis, Clifford (Linda) Denton, Eleanor (Don) Remedies, Patricia (Bill) Lee, David (Kimberly) Denton, Shirley (Randy) Sheffer and Gloria (Derek Coville) Sammons; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Due to the COVID-19 or “Corona-19” pandemic, as Donna put it, services will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions in Donna’s name may be made to Cancer Care of WNY, 3850 Saunders Settlement Road, Sanborn NY 14132.

Donna’s arrangements have been entrusted to Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc., 21 West Ave., Albion NY 14411. To share a special memory of Donna, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Posted April 17 2020
Joseph D. Stazie

Joseph Stazie Joseph D. Stazie, 92, of Rochester and formerly of Holley, passed away April 17, 2020 at Hurlbut Nursing Home, where he was a resident. Joe was born in Holley on Feb. 9, 1928, a son of the late Joseph H. and Mary (Paduano) Stazie.

Joseph was the beloved husband of the late Helena Stazie (Paduano); loving father of Joseph (Linda) Stazie of North Royalton, Ohio; cherished grandfather of Jay Stazie of Chicago, Ill.; and dear brother-in-law of Pauline Stazie of Holley. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, services and interment at Holy Cross Cemetery will be private.

Memorials may be made to the Arthritis Foundation at arthritis.org or 1355 Peachtree St. NE, Suite 600, Atlanta GA 30309.

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

Posted April 17 2020
Carolyn Squires

Carolyn SquiresCarolyn Squires, 91, formerly of South Main Street in Albion, died April 17, 2020 at The Villages of Orleans. She was born in Louisville, Ky., one of seven children of Harrington and Virginia Powers.

In 1946, she married William Squires, a World War II veteran and electrician, who was killed in a construction accident in 1963. Carolyn raised six children as a single mom, working multiple jobs in Wellsville, N.Y. while her children were in school. She was a cook at nursing homes in Wellsville and Cincinnati, and she retired from Orchard Manor in Medina. While living in Medina, she also worked part-time for the Maplecrest Restaurant and St John’s Episcopal Church.

For many years, she was a sought-after baker, particularly for decorated character birthday cakes. Carolyn was a member of the Women of the Moose in both Wellsville and Medina, attending national Moose events. She was a member of their College of Regents.

Carolyn was a member of the Senior Citizens of Western Orleans County in Medina, where she was the cupcake lady for member birthdays and managed the craft room. In 1996, Carolyn was recognized as the Orleans County Senior Volunteer of the Year. Carolyn was commended for her work in the 4-H organization, Women of the Moose and Medina Senior Citizens. She attended the Wesleyan Church in Wellsville and the First Baptist Church in Medina, where she thoroughly enjoyed and participated in the Christmas and Easter pageants.

She was predeceased by her husband; and by three adult children, Peggy, James and Bill.

She is survived by her children, Daniel of New Hampshire, H. Calvin (Heather) of Florida, and Linda (Kevin) Doherty of Albion; 21 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; three sisters, Sarah Humphress, Frances Higdon and Dorothy Roane; and a brother, David Powers.

There will be no calling hours, although a service and reception may be announced when health restrictions allow. A graveside service will be held at Woodlawn Cemetery in Wellsville at the convenience of the family.

Memorials in lieu of flowers are suggested for PAWS Animal Shelter, 3371 Gaines Basin Road, Albion NY 14411; or to Senior Citizens of Western Orleans County in Medina.

Carolyn’s arrangements have been entrusted to Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc., 21 West Ave., Albion NY 14411. To share a special memory of Carolyn, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Posted April 17 2020
Charles E. Prahler

Charles Prahler

Charles E. Prahler, of Lyndonville, passed away on April 15, 2020 at Good Shepherd Hospital, Barrington, Ill.

Born on Nov. 24, 1924 in Ridgeway, he was the son of the late Joseph A. Prahler and Ilda Prahler (née Reimer). Married on Sept. 5, 1953, Charles is survived by his wife, Kathryn M. Prahler (née Blanchard) of Lake Zurich, Ill.

As a loving father and grandfather, Charles is survived by two children, John C. (Trudy) Prahler of Barrington and Jeffrey M. (Robin) Prahler of Hilton; three grandchildren, Justin M. Prahler, Jarad M. Prahler and Christina M. (Jason) Calvaresi (née Prahler); and one sister, Violet Miller (née Prahler) (born 1926), of Rochester.

Besides his parents, Charles is predeceased by his siblings, Catherine Prahler (born 1916), Anna Louise Wilcox (née Prahler) (born 1918), Joseph Prahler (born 1919) and Robert Prahler (born 1920).

Charles graduated from Medina High School, and from Cornell University in 1951. He retired after 32½ years from Harrison Radiator (Delphi) as a supervisor of the assembly line. Charles was also a loyal and dedicated member of the Lyndonville Lions Club.

Charles was a religious man with a kind soul who touched many lives through his wit, smile and humor. He maintained a thirst for knowledge, a deep love for his wife and family, and a profound gratitude for
living through his entire life. His favorite poem/song was “Desiderata.” He will be missed by many.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Our Lady of the Lake Parish, St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church, at a later date. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that donations be made to Lyndonville Lions Club Fourth of July Fund, PO Box 371, Lyndonville NY 14098.

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

Posted April 16 2020
William L. Allen

Bill Allen

William L. “Wild Bill” Allen, 81, of West Barre, passed away into the loving arms of Jesus on April 16, 2020, following a short illness.

Bill was born Nov. 25, 1938 in Batavia, a son of the late Leon and Grace (Peters) Allen. He graduated from Albion High School, class of 1957. After high school, Bill graduated from Cornell University with a degree in agricultural sciences and went on to work for the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets in Rochester. Bill was a member of Brockport Free Methodist Church. He loved gardening, playing the piano, singing, and his cottage at Lighthouse Christian Camp in Barker.

He was predeceased by his brother, Peter Allen, in 2019.

Bill is survived by his loving wife of 25 years, Donna; children, Tammy (Ron Johnson) Allen-Parmelee, Gina (Stosh) Deskins-Garczynski, Elizabeth Allen, and Robin (Rich) Nolan; grandchildren, Grace and Maxwell Parmelee, of whom he was very proud; sisters-in-law, Carol (Frank) Trusler-Piorkowski and Noreen (Joseph) Tascione; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held at a later date due to COVID-19.

Memorials may be made to Brockport Free Methodist Church, 6787 Fourth Section Road, Brockport NY 14420.

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

Posted April 16 2020
Thelma C. Stawicki

Thelma Stawicki

Thelma C. Stawicki, 85, of Medina, died peacefully on April 15, 2020 at her home.

A lifelong resident of the area, Thelma was born on Oct. 20, 1934 in Alabama, N.Y., a daughter of the late Dorothy (Henzler) and Lewis Schneider. She worked for the United States Postal Service for more than 25 years and, alongside her husband, John, owned and operated Stawicki Provision in Medina for 20 years. Thelma was a local award-winning Avon representative for a number of years. She enjoyed reading, watching TV, doing word search puzzles, and visiting with family.

Besides her parents, Thelma was predeceased by her husband, John Stawicki, in 2012; sister, Joan Filarowski; brother, Edward Schneider; grandsons, Michael Pries and Robert Klatt; son in-law, Robert Chase; and her furry best friend, Freddie.

She is survived by her children, Joseph (Donna) Stawicki, Katherine (Allan) Johnson, Robert (Kimberly) Stawicki, Sandra Stawicki-Balschmiter, Ann (Robert) Riggle and Laurie (Walt) Klatt; her sister, Dorothy Butterbaugh; 19 grandchildren; 40 great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren.

There will be no calling hours. A private graveside committal service will be held in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Orleans County Office for the Aging – Meals on Wheels, 14016 Route 31 West, Albion NY 14411.

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

Posted April 15 2020
Charles Leon Haight

Charles Haight

Charles Leon Haight, of Kent, born Oct. 18, 1951 to the late Leon and Beatrice (Doyle) Haight, passed away unexpectedly on April 14, 2020.

He was a very loving and happy guy. Charles was a lifetime member of the Carlton Fire Department and the NRA. He was a truck driver and a farmer.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother, John.

Charles is survived by his sister, Darlene (Duane) Wolfer; brother, Edward Haight; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. He was looking forward to his niece, Megan Stevens, and her children, Gregory and Alonna, moving in with him.

Services will be held privately due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and a celebration of Charles’ life will be held in the summer.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name may be made to Carlton Fire Department, 14341 Waterport-Carlton Road, Albion NY 14411.

Charles’ arrangements have been entrusted to Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc., 21 West Ave., Albion NY 14411. To share a special memory of Charles, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Posted April 14 2020
Bruce T. Williams

Bruce WilliamsBruce T. Williams, 81, of Lockport, passed away on April 11, 2020 after a brief illness. He was born on Feb. 26, 1939 in Medina to John Norbert and Mary Albertine (Thomas) Williams.

Bruce was an inventor, entrepreneur, world traveler and philanthropist. After serving in the U.S. Army Reserve, he established Trek Inc. in 1968, founded Trek Japan KK in 1987, and, at age 78, launched Electrical Energy Limited LLC. As a worldwide leader in the design and manufacture of high-voltage amplifiers and electrostatic measuring equipment, Bruce held 19 patents in addition to one assigned with his brother. He frequently contributed to many charities throughout his life and, in 2007, he established the Bruce T. Williams Family Foundation.

In 2009, he was honored as one of Lockport High School’s most distinguished alumni. Bruce enjoyed memberships in the American Legion and the Rotary Club of Middleport. In his free time, he traveled the world with his family and friends. New Zealand was one of his favorite destinations. When he wasn’t traveling, he enjoyed hosting get-togethers at his lake house in Barker and caring for his beloved pets, Webster, Nellie and Mayzi. He was perhaps best known for his love of The New York Times crossword puzzle, his witty jokes and puns, and his warm and generous heart.

In addition to his parents, Bruce was predeceased by his twin brother, Robert.

He is survived by the love of his life, Dale S. Nikitas; sisters, Patricia (late Leonard) Rounds and Marilyn (late Jerome) Carney; daughters, Kathy Ludwig, Paula Wells and Julie (Thomas) Kincaid; sister-in-law, Charlene Williams; Dale’s sons, Stephen (Tara) Nikitas and Paul Nikitas; as well as nieces, nephews, cousins, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and close friends.

A service will be held at a later date. He will be laid to rest at Cold Springs Cemetery in Lockport.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in his name to The Lockport High School Scholarship Foundation, c/o Grace Scirto, 250 Lincoln Ave., Lockport NY 14094; or to Lockport CARES Inc., P.O. Box 586, Lockport NY 14095.

Arrangements were handled by Prudden and Kandt Funeral Home, Lockport.

Posted April 13 2020
Betty Jane Scobell

Betty Jane “BJ” Scobell, 97, of Kendall, died April 2, 2020 at the Edna Tina Wilson Living Center. She was born April 5, 1922 in Rochester, a daughter of the late Martin and Veronica Burylski, and she lived in this area all of her life.

BJ was a very social and family-oriented person. She loved children and was so fond of her nieces and nephews. She enjoyed golfing with her sisters and friends and watching her gardens grow. She was a loyal New York Yankees fan, and she loved to drive fast. She worked at the Trimble Company and, for many years, at the Brockport YMCA as a bookkeeper.

She was predeceased by her husband, Eugene Gordon Scobell; her sisters, Alfreda, Ceil, Lucille and Jean; and her brother, Scotty.

BJ is survived by her sister, Arlene; stepson, Daniel (Kathy) Scobell; stepdaughter, Debbi Otto; step-grandchildren, Ryan and Deigh; niece, Veronica Walker; nephews, Douglas Mocny, Pete Burila, Jerry Decker and Ray Webb; as well as several other nieces, nephews, cousins and close friends.

There will be no calling hours. Her memorial service will be held at the convenience of the family at Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc., 16650 State Route 31, Holley. Burial will be in Old Pittsford Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Edna Tina Wilson Living Center, 700 Island Cottage Road, Rochester NY 14612.

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

Posted April 12 2020
Paul Wesley Abbey Jr.

Paul AbbeyPaul Wesley Abbey Jr., 81, of Holley, entered eternal rest on April 11, 2020 in Rochester. He was born June 29, 1938 in Canandaigua.

He was predeceased by his parents, Iolene Belle Kingsley and Paul Wesley Abbey Sr.; his wife, Esther Louise Look Abbey; and his son, Richard Floyd Abbey.

He is survived by his wife of 26 years, Gail C. Abbey; sons and daughters-in-law, Todd Russell (Erin) Abbey and Craig Wesley (Clara) Abbey; daughter-in-law, Jennifer Jo (Ben) Abbey; grandchildren, Jason T. (Megan) Abbey, Kaitlyn A. (Dillon) Balch, Paul D. (Sarah) Abbey, Steven P. (Megan) Abbey and Génia E.E. Abbey; great-grandchildren, Richard T. and Audrey R. Abbey; Gail’s children, Bradley J. Zimmer, Laurie Z. Wyczawski, Kirk A. Zimmer Sr., and  Paula Z. Prater and their families; many dear in-laws, nieces, nephews and friends.

Paul grew up in Honeoye and Rochester and raised his family near Ellison Park in Brighton. He had a great sense of humor, was a dedicated family man, loved his family pets, and enjoyed gardening and camping with his family. He was very talented in auto body repair and loved 1957 Chevys.  He served in the New York National Guard from 1957 to 1965. Paul enjoyed membership in the Grand Masons, the Holiday Ramblers, Brighton Reformed Church, Boy Scouts, and St. Mary-St. Mark RC Parish, and he made good friends in his neighborhoods in Brighton and Clarendon.

Services will be held at a later date, at a day and time to be announced. Interment will occur at Lakeview Cemetery, Honeoye, Ontario County, New York.

Memorials may be made to PAWS, 3371 Gaines Basin Road, Albion NY 14411.

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

Posted April 10 2020
Sammie L. Spivey Robinson

Sammie Robinson

American flag

Sammie L. Spivey Robinson, 80, of Elba, died April 7, 2020 at his home. He was born Sept. 8, 1939 in Sumter County, Ga., a son of the late Robert and Verseola (Robinson) Spivey, and he lived in this area for over 60 years.

Sammie served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He always said he was a jack of all trades. He was a maintenance man, a truck driver, and a former employee of T.J. Lipton’s, and he asphalted driveways and parking lots. He found his love for farming when he finally settled in Elba, raising pigs, cows, chickens, goats, sheep, geese and pheasants. He loved being outdoors – he enjoyed cutting his grass with his riding lawn mower, and he raised a beautiful vegetable garden. Sammie was a musician who played the drums in the band “Cyclone.” But, most importantly, Sammie was a family man who loved cookouts and family gatherings. Some would say Sammie’s bark was bad and his bite was worse, but we all loved him. He is no longer in pain. May he rest in peace.

You will be missed. God bless you daddy with all our love.

He was predeceased by his wife, Mabel R. (Williams) Spivey; sisters, Laura Hardy, Jeanette Spivey and Varnel Rhimes; brother, James Spivey; and son, Borus Spivey.

He is survived by his loving companion, Susan DeCamp; sisters, Mary Lois Burns of Toledo, Ohio, Bethena Jackson of Charlotte, N.C., and LeGretta Calloway of Fort Valley, Ga.; brother, Robert Spivey of Toledo; daughters, Reba Spivey of Rochester, Lolita (Robert) Spivey of Rochester, Delphena Green of Cordele, Ga., and Sharon Spivey of Cordele; stepsons, Shawn and Bruce; grandchildren, Dwayne, Donovan, Tiffany, Robert, Sharray and Roddrick; as well as a host of great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Due to public health regulations allowing immediate family only, and as few people as possible to attend Sammie’s service, you may view Sammie’s private service by using this link: Sammie L. Spivey Robinson Memorial Service.

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