Obituaries

Beverly J. Mitchell, 90, of Albion, passed away peacefully while under the loving care of Hospice of Orleans at the Martin-Linsin Residence. Her son, David, and grandson, Joshua, were by her side. Bev was born July 14, 1929 in Elmira, a daughter of the late Charles Herbert and Laura (House) Landon.

Bev was a graduate of Elmira Free Academy and the Arnot School of Nursing. Bev and her late husband, Rho, moved to Albion in 1955. She was a member of Albion First United Methodist Church and T.U.M.S. She started working at the former Arnold Gregory Memorial Hospital as a Registered Nurse and Head Nurse, retiring early due to health reasons. Mrs. Mitchell was very proud to have participated since 1976 in The Nurses’ Health Study through Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women’s Hospital for furthering the knowledge of women’s health issues.

Bev had a little bit of an adventurous side, from being one hour shy of receiving her private pilot’s license, to driving 45 miles per hour in a Model A Ford, to going on a hot air balloon ride with her son and three grandsons when she was 84. She enjoyed anything yellow, ceramics, family gatherings, going for rides to the lake on a sunny day, stopping at Rush’s, and going to get ice cream with her grandson, Josh.

Bev was predeceased by her loving husband of 64 years, Rho B. Mitchell; and her brother, Dale Landon.

She is survived by her children, Michael S. (Susan Grogan) Mitchell of Florida, Patty G. (Jane Hobson) Mitchell of Hilton and David B. (Brenda West) Mitchell of Holley. She was very proud of her three grandsons, Joshua (fiancée Tristin Rider) Mitchell of Albion, Brian (Cass Saint-Vil) Mitchell of Rochester, and Eric Mitchell, presently stuck in Chile. She is also survived by a special niece, Wendy (Butch) Wolcott; many dear friends, including Tina Tower and Leah Gibbs; and several nieces and nephews.

Our family would have loved to have had public services, but in accordance with the current recommendations of the CDC, we will have a private service at the funeral home which Rho and Beverly started in 1957. Interment will be in Mt. Albion Cemetery. The funeral service may be viewed on the funeral home website on Fri., April 17.

Memorials may be made to Albion First United Methodist Church, 26 S. Main St., Albion NY 14411; or to Hospice of Orleans, P.O. Box 489, Albion NY 14411.

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

Betty Decker Benedict, 88, of Medina, died April 9, 2020 at the Martin-Linsin Residence after a long battle with Alzheimer’s. She was born Feb. 11, 1932 in Westford, Vt. and lived many years in New York State. She moved to Pt. Charlotte, Fla. in December 1995 after retiring from Benedict’s Country Store in Shelby Center, which she and her husband Roger “Ben” owned and operated.

Betty and her husband also owned Benedict’s Maintenance, which was a floor cleaning service, cleaning many of the Rite Aid stores in the Rochester and Southern Tier areas. She was a member of T.W.I.G at Medina Memorial Hospital for many years. She loved ceramics, painting and dancing. She and her husband loved going to jamborees and square dances.

She was predeceased by her daughters, Lexi (Bobby) Simington and Debra Rae Ross; brothers, Douglas Decker, Winston Decker and David Decker; and sister, Patricia Shaar.

She is survived by her loving husband of 53 years, Roger “Ben;” children, Cheryl (Michael) Holt, Lori (Terry) Gardner, Rick (Lorraine) Benedict and Bret Ross; grandchildren, Ali, Najat, Alicia, Jeffrey, T.J., Natasha, Dana, Travis, Rick and Debra; as well as several great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Due to public health regulations allowing immediate family only, and as few people as possible to attend Betty’s service, you may view her service by using this link: Betty Benedict Funeral Service. Burial will be in Hillside Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of Orleans, P.O. Box 489, Albion NY 14411; or to Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, 1200 Scottsville Road Ste. 100, Rochester NY 14624.

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

Mrs. Damaris Lee (Pask) Curtis, 77, of Fayetteville, Ga., passed away April 8, 2020.

Damaris was born April 4, 1943 to the late H. Clifford and Ellen Pask. She grew up in Medina alongside her identical twin sister, Dianne. She graduated from Medina High School in 1961 and went on to pursue higher education. She studied mathematics at the State University of New York at Buffalo and was a member of Chapter AA of Alpha Gamma Delta sorority. Damaris earned a Bachelor of Science and then continued her studies at Buffalo State Teachers College. In 1967, Damaris earned a master’s degree in education, which led to her longtime career as a math teacher.

Damaris married Airman Ernest T. Curtis, of LeRoy, on July 1, 1967. She began her teaching career at North Tonawanda High School. She also taught at Medina High School for a few years. Ernest’s service in the Air Force led Damaris to teach classes in electronic principles to airmen at Chanute Air Force Base in Illinois. The couple returned to civilian life with Ernest’s honorable discharge in 1971. Damaris resumed teaching math at Alexander Central School. In 1974, Damaris became a mother to her beloved daughter, Melissa. Damaris spent a total of 26 years teaching mathematics in New York. She retired from education in 1996. In 1998, Damaris and Ernest moved to Port Orange, Fla. to enjoy retirement by the ocean. After several years in Florida, the couple relocated to Fayetteville to be closer to family.

Damaris loved the Lord and was a longtime member of Evergreen Church in Peachtree City, Ga. She enjoyed the church as well as the many friends she made there. She considered herself a “professional grandma” and devoted much of herself to her four grandchildren. She could often be found attending one of their soccer matches, basketball games or cheerleading events. Damaris was quiet and bashful. She was completely honest and incapable of telling a lie. She had a green thumb and enjoyed her flower gardens. Damaris will be dearly missed by her family and many friends, who take comfort knowing that she is now in Paradise with her Lord and Savior.

Damaris is survived by her husband of 52 years, Ernest Theodore Curtis Jr. of Fayetteville; daughter, Melissa “Missy” Lynne (Allen) Leonard of Peachtree City; grandchildren, Curtis Michael Leonard, Ansley Christine Leonard, Zoe Louise Leonard and Preston Theodore Leonard; and sister, Dianne Lynne (Francis) Domoy of Oakfield.

A memorial service will be held in Damaris’ honor at Evergreen Church at a later date.

Memorials may be made to Evergreen Church, Southwest Christian Care Hospice, 7225 Lester Road, Union City GA 30291; or to a charity of your choice.

Corrine (Munzel) Bell, 79, of Lyndonville, passed away Mon., April 6, 2020 at Strong Memorial Hospital with family by her side. She was born Sept. 13, 1940 to Andrew and Cora (Luke) Munzel.

Corrine lived in Lyndonville all her life. After graduation in 1958, she started work at the lumber yard for Mr. Bane. This was a great fit for her and her exceptional math skills. On May 14, 1960, she married Allen Bell. On a corner of the Munzel Farm, they designed and built their home, where they lived and raised their three children, Karen (Dennis Young) Davis, Kevin (Tina) Bell and Kristine Hartwig. They also had eight grandchildren, Heather (Joseph) Dobucki, Jillian (Jairus Martin) Barry, Kyle Davis, Andrew (Tessa Mcarthur) Reed, Kimberly (Gary Lindemuth) Hartwig, Nicholas Hartwig, Cameron Bell and Luke Bell; and two great-grandsons, Ezra Dobucki and Wyatt James Lindemuth. Corrine is also survived by her sister, Donna Quiett-Burgio, and extended family including cousins, nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her sister, Marion Loke.

Corrine’s family was her first and greatest treasure. She cared for her grandchildren as often as possible. She often hosted family for holidays and birthdays, enjoying those special moments. Her favorite pastimes were reading and sewing, and she enjoyed her flower gardens and hummingbirds. Her vast collection of irises was always breathtaking. Corrine still had time to be part of many things, including Christian Women’s, St. John’s Lutheran Church, Ladies Aid, Church Council, and Sunday school. Allen and Corrine were able to travel throughout the U.S., visiting family and exploring along the way. As snowbirds, they stayed at the park enjoying new friends and activities.

Corrinne will always be remembered for her warm smile, her loving hugs, and her kind and generous spirit.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date to be announced, when family and friends may share their fond memories together. Her final resting place will be in Lynhaven Cemetery, Lyndonville.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Corrine’s name to Lupus Alliance of Upstate New York, 438 Main St. #2013, Buffalo NY 14202; or to Yates Community Library, 15 N Main St., Lyndonville NY 14098; or to a charity of one’s choice.

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

Shirley S. Bentley, 79, of Shelby Center, went home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus on Wed., April 8, 2020 at her home with her children by her side.

Shirley was born on July 27, 1940, a daughter to Roy C. and Edith F. (Carpenter) Smith. She married Brian J. Bentley, and together they raised a family of five children. Shirley worked as a teacher’s assistant at Niagara-Orleans BOCES for 38 years. After retirement, she continued as a substitute for several more years. Shirley was a longtime member of Oak Orchard Assembly of God Church in Medina. She was a 50-year member of the Shelby Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary. She was a Cub Scout leader for many years and, in her later years, she volunteered with MAAC Clothing Depot. She liked to be in charge of the jewelry. Those who knew Shirley know that she loved her jewelry. In her earlier years, Shirley enjoyed camping with her family and close friends. She enjoyed outside concerts and other adventures with her family, whom she loved so dearly.

Besides her parents, Shirley was predeceased by her husband, Brian, in 2003; and her daughter, Jamie Brown, in 2010.

She is survived by her four children, Lori (Robert) Reed, Rebecca (Jeff Price) Mannella, Kathleen (Michael) Hodgins and Bradley (Jen Fuller) Bentley; nine grandchildren, Zach (Kelsie) Reed, Kaitlyn (Ian) Caton, Jesse (Hannah) Brown, Brandi (Nick) Wade, Alisha (Jamie) Duffina, Greggory (Darlene) Hodgins, Ryan (Stevie) Hodgins, Faith Bentley and Colin Bentley; 21 great-grandchildren; a sister, Sandie (Richard) Owen of Middleport; and a brother, Donald (Dolores) Smith of Ocala, Fla.

Services will be privately held by the family, and burial will be in Bates Road Cemetery. A celebration of Shirley’s life will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Shirley’s memory may be made to Oak Orchard Assembly of God Church, 12111 Ridge Road, Medina; or to MAAC Clothing Depot, PO Box 253, Medina NY 14103.

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

Marjorie Evelyn Nesbitt, 89, passed away peacefully at home on April 5, 2020. She was born in Somerset, N.Y. to John and Iva Bowen on Feb. 18, 1931.

She was one of eight children: Jack, Iva, Rose and Ruth Edna, who predeceased her; and Marcia Hartway, Lois Nanni and Norma Waldron, who survive her. She graduated from Oakfield High School in 1948.

On Nov. 12, 1949, she married David “Lindy” Nesbitt. For 53 years, they shared a wonderful life together, raising nine children: Cindy (Tom), Dave (Marilyn), John (Joanne), Steve (Paula), Andy, Martha (Phil), Julie (Jeff), Mark (Becky), and Scott.

Marjorie lived her whole life on farms, working alongside her dad and husband. She was proud to call herself a farmer.

Marjorie had many interests in her life, among them reading, sewing, quilting, gardening, drawing and writing. She loved all things in nature, birds and flowers especially. She wrote poetry and committed many poems to memory, several of which she could still recite in her later years. Marjorie even wrote a book titled ​”The Reunion”​ when she was in her 70s.

One of her greatest pleasures was watching her children, and then her 31 grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren, having fun together. They have wonderful memories of times spent on her front porch, picnics and games in the yard, and playing board games and having toast and cocoa around her table.

Marjorie used her gift of hospitality to the fullest, serving countless meals and opening her home to her large extended family and guests from all over. She was loved and respected by her numerous nieces and nephews, and many people outside the family called her “Mom” or “Aunt Marge.” She always had time to listen or to help someone in need.

Most obvious in her life was her love for God, which she shared freely with all who knew her. In her daily life, she was always pointing her children and then her grandchildren to God. She served in her church in many capacities, including Sunday school, junior church and VBS.

On the wall in her home there was a framed print of the C.T. Studd poem she often quoted, ​“Only one life will soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.”

There will be a gathering to celebrate her life at a later date. Donations in her memory may be sent to Operation Christmas Child through Samaritan’s Purse.

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

Henry Richard Wagner, 94, of Holley, passed away at the New York State Veterans Home in Batavia on April 8, 2020. He was born May 3, 1925 in Clarendon to the late Edward and Margaret (Connors) Wagner.

Henry was a World War II veteran, a farmer, a carpenter and a contractor. He was very active in scouting (BSA), Holley Fire Department, Holley Emergency Squad, Holy Name Society, American Legion and VFW, and he served 31 years as a Murray town councilman. Henry was influential in the implementation of 10 of the 11 water districts in the Town of Murray. Henry greatly enhanced the quality of life of the town residents with many of the key town ordinances and zoning laws that he put in place. He also helped drive a new tax base, supporting the development of the industrial park in Holley to help offset the increased cost of maintaining the town’s infrastructure. He was a charter member of the Holley Woodmen Club and had the club’s cabin on his property for many years. In his later years, Hank loved to spend winters in Florida, cutting the grass on the farm and at his apartments, and was always occupied with one significant project or another.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his three siblings, Edna Yoffredo, Edward Donald “Don” Wagner and Martha (McFarland) Stockton.

Henry is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 70 years, Sarah (Mowers) Wagner; six children, Peggy (Lee) Berlin, Jerry (Roxanne) Wagner, Charles (Cindy) Wagner, Rodney (Pat) Wagner, John (Robin) Wagner and Edward (Fai) Wagner; 19 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends on Fri., July 3 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc., 16650 State Route 31, Holley NY 14470, where a Celebration of Life Service will follow at 1 p.m. Entombment with full military honors will be at Holy Cross Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to the resident activity fund at the NYS Veterans Home, 220 Richmond Ave., Batavia NY 14020; or to Honor Flight Rochester, Inc., PO Box 23581, Rochester NY 14692.

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

Dicksie A. “Dixie” Rauber, 59, of Lockport, passed away on April 5, 2020 after a brave battle with cancer. She was born Oct. 9, 1960 to Mylen and Dicksie (Collar) Daugherty.

Dixie loved her dog, Shaggy, and all of her birds, but she had a special and adoring love for her family. She will be missed by everyone she touched and will always be remembered for her kindness and her laugh.

In addition to her father, she was predeceased by her grandparents, Bertha and Richard; her uncle, John; and her aunt, Sally Collar.

Dixie is survived by her sons, Dennis (Sharon Lee Chase) Zimmerman, Shawn and Jeremy; husband, Kenny; mother, Dicksie; mother-in-law, Joanne Marshall; siblings, Kathleen (José) Rubalcaba, Mylen “Buddy” Daugherty, Marie (Richard Wendt) Rairie, Matthew (Amanda) Daugherty and Michael (Ashley) Daugherty; grandchildren, Ian Meier, Mason Zimmerman, Eli Zimmerman and Nathan Chase-Krantz; several nieces, nephews and cousins; and many friends.

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

In appreciation for the great love and care that Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center gave to Dixie, memorial contributions in her name may be made to Roswell Park Alliance Foundation, P.O. Box 631, Buffalo NY 14240.

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

Michael J. Lee, 80, of Newfane, passed away April 5, 2020 at Elderwood in Lockport following a long illness. He was born June 16, 1939 in Buffalo to Bernard and Phyllis (Becker) Lee and was a lifetime resident of this area.

Mike worked for 40 years as a printer for the Colad Group and also spent over 15 years as a school bus driver for Ridge Road Express. He was a veteran of the United States Army, a member and Elder of Lockport First Presbyterian Church, and a committee member of BSA Troop #40 in Wrights Corners. Mike was also a 38-year member of the Wrights Corners Volunteer Fire Department and the Wrights Corners Exempts Benevolent Association. In his spare time, he enjoyed antique cars and camping.

Mr. Lee was predeceased by his first wife, Ladonna.

He is survived by his wife, Faith; son, Jeffrey (Cheryl) Lee of Lockport; daughter, Sandra (David Cox) Mahnke of Lockport; stepdaughters, Dr. Martha (Ken Ham) Ludwig of Grand Island and Patricia (Jamey) Mann of East Aurora; sisters, Lois Seekins and Nancy Perry, both of Lockport; seven grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

There will be no calling hours. Services will be held privately and at the convenience of the family.

Michael’s arrangements have been entrusted to Kenneth H. Sherrie Funeral Home, 6139 East Ave., Newfane NY 14108. To share a special memory of Mike, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Judith A. “Judy” Librock, 78, of Gasport, went to be with the Lord on April 6, 2020. She was born Aug. 2, 1941 in Lockport, a daughter of the late Lloyd and Loraine (Hawley) Dysinger, and she lived in the area all of her life.

Judy attended Hartland Bible Church, and she played the organ at Royalton Community Church for many years. She and her late husband, Sonny, owned and operated Librock Black Angus Beef Farm and sold their meat at the farmers market. Judy was also a caterer who baked pies to sell at local restaurants. She was a seamstress who loved to knit, having made both her daughters’ wedding and bridesmaid dresses. Most importantly, Judy was devoted to her family and loved spending time with them.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Walter “Sonny.”

She is survived by her children, Randy (Kathie) Librock, Cynthia (Kevin) Barker and Lorna (Doug) Seib; grandchildren, Brian, Robbie, Kelsey, Ayant, Eliza, Ella and Lucaiah; great-grandchildren, Quinton and Effie Mae; brothers, Lyndon (Melinda) Dysinger and Gordon Dysinger; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Services will be private. To view her funeral service, please go to Hartland Bible Church’s Facebook page on Thu., April 9 at 11 a.m. Interment will be private at Royalton Union Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Niagara Hospice, 4675 Sunset Drive, Lockport NY 14094; or to Hartland Bible Church, 8110 West Ave., Gasport NY 14067.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Sherrie Bream Funeral Home, Gasport. To share a special memory of Judy, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Roger P. Pechuman, 64, of Gasport, passed away suddenly April 2, 2020 at Medina Memorial Hospital. He was born Dec. 12, 1955 in Medina, a son of the late Roger W. and Shirley (Stout) Pechuman. Roger was a longtime member of Oak Orchard Assembly of God Church and the Christian Bow Hunters of America. He was the former owner of Roger’s Collision in Gasport. Roger enjoyed being outdoors and loved spending time with his grandchildren.

He is survived by his children, Stephanie (Andrew) Kozma of Gasport and Jerry (Sara) Pechuman of Wolcottsville; grandchildren, Wesley, Danielle, Cheyenne, Autumn, Lyla, Charlie and Macy; brother, Gerald (Moonyean) Pechuman; sisters, Cheryl (Richard Sheridan) Ross, Charlene (Robert) Walter, Rachel Goodheart and Patricia (Robert) Morris; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

A celebration of Roger’s life will be announced at a later date. Interment will be in Cold Springs Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Oak Orchard Assembly of God Church, 12111 Ridge Road, Medina NY 14103.

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

Adeline Alice Panchenko Smith was born Jan. 25, 1930 at her parents’ home at 58 Grote St. in the Black Rock area of Buffalo, N.Y. While her mother, Bertha Szczepankiewicz, did the real work, friends of the family gathered to play cards with Peter Nicholas Panchenko, late of Kiev, Ukraine, ostensibly to support the waiting father. Adele said of them, “They then thought they owned me.” Perhaps she had been won in a wager.

Later, she lived on Military Road near the theater where Adele and her sister had once snuck out to go to the movies and had to shelter afterward in a doorway during a World War II blackout. Her last Buffalo address was on Grant Street, now a Buffalo State College parking lot, in a home that was the epicenter of many spontaneous parties with her family and Lafayette High School chums as they rolled back the rug to dance and sing while Adele played piano.

Adeline was a looker, with more than a few admirers, and she took pride in her appearance all the way to the days before she passed on March 30, 2020 at the wonderful Martin-Linsin Hospice Residence in Albion. She often told her children, Jeffrey D. (Charlene Murray) Smith, Judith, Kathleen, and the late Gregory Emil (2015), that even when you don’t feel well, get up, wash your face and get dressed. This, along with her concoction of warm honey, butter and milk, was her prescription for life, which threw her a few curve balls.

After graduating, she began working a secretarial job at Trico in downtown Buffalo. She gave her dad her college savings so he could realize his lifelong dream of having a farm, this on Keck Road, Lockport. She lived there and carpooled and took the bus to her job, continued saving, bought a car, and started buying nice linens. The late Garra Hensleigh Smith, a farmer from Shelby, became her husband. She knew no one but him and was not given the nicest of welcomes by one of her in-laws, though her new grandmother was kind to her. Adeline learned her new motto, “She who is transplanted still sustains.”

On Smith Farms, just south of Medina, she became known by some as the Apple Lady. She took great pride in keeping her open-air market neat and in good stead, constantly sorting the apples so only the best were displayed. She enjoyed getting to know her customers who returned from near and far, year after year, and she watched their children grow. Adeline kept her own children fed and in clean, neat clothes, supporting them with a fierceness of the Sisterhood of Mama Bear, and she recognized the uniqueness of each child.

Adele, though baptized Russian Orthodox and confirmed in the Catholic Church, firmly said she didn’t need a go-between for her and God. She joined St. John’s Episcopal Church, where she led a Bible study and eventually chaired the Women’s Vestry Committee locally and regionally. She worked fervently at getting women in the priesthood of the Episcopalian Church. She later attended evangelical Bible studies and churches and deepened her personal, spiritual life. In later years, she was affiliated with no particular church but described herself adamantly as Christian and looked for the marks of such in the behavior and actions of those who professed. Adele was as fierce and opinionated an American citizen and Bills fan as she was a mother. Aggrieved by a lack of faith and honesty in the country, she had choice words for world leaders and certain players and referees.

Adeline is also survived by her smart, talented and beautiful grandchildren, Jeremiah (Julia Rotman) Smith, Guinevere (Alan) Panek, and Jocelyn (Devin) Foran; as well as her clever and adored great-grandchildren, Graham, Alannah and Eli Smith; Dudley, Grady and Margaret Panek; and Anwyn and Brenna Foran. She had several beloved nephews and nieces. Never one to play favorites, she loved them equally, but differently.

Due to concern for the health of all, a private viewing at Cooper Funeral Home and committal service led by longtime friend, Rev. Vince Iorio, at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Shelby, were held on April 1, 2020. A celebration of her life will take place at a later date.

Please share memories and condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

Margaret O’Nan (née Balcerzak), 81, entered into rest at her home in East Amherst on March 31, 2020.

Born Aug. 8, 1938 in Medina, she was a daughter of the late William and Anna (Piatek) Balcerzak.

Marge graduated from Medina High School in 1956 and went on to earn a master’s degree in physical therapy from the University of Buffalo. Margaret worked as a physical therapist for many years. She lived many years of her life in the state of Oregon with her husband, Fred O’Nan. Upon retirement, they owned and operated Lazy Acres RV Park in Gold Hill, Ore. After Fred died in 2017, she returned to Western New York to be closer to her family. Marge was an animal lover, especially dogs and cats, and she enjoyed gardening. She was also an avid doll maker and doll collector.

She is survived by her sister, Genevieve Dujenski of Olathe, Kan.; stepdaughter, Cathi (Charles) O’Nan Bower of Langley, Wash.; and several nieces, nephews and cousins in the Medina area.

Besides her parents and husband, Marge was predeceased by six siblings, Dorothy Balschmiter, MaryAnn Curtin, John, Arthur, Richard and William Balcerzak.

A graveside committal service will be held at a later date in Sacred Heart Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Roswell Park Alliance Foundation, P.O. Box 631, Buffalo NY 14240; or to SPCA, 300 Harlem Road, West Seneca NY 14224.

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

Lillian C. “Lilly” (Steffen) Hordendorf, 55, of Albion, passed away unexpectedly on March 29, 2020. She was born Dec. 25, 1964 in Rochester to Gerald and Raphael (Barbarito) Steffen.

Lilly was a great mother, and her greatest loves were her daughters, her family and her cats. In her spare time, she loved playing guitar, singing and metal detecting. She grew up in Kendall and worked hard since she was 16 years old.

Lilly was predeceased by her mother, Raphael; son, James; sister, Julia; and father-in-law, Donald Stewart.

Lilly is survived by her daughters, Rachel King and Amanda (John LaMere) King; father, Gerald Steffen; siblings, Jerry (Rosemary) Steffen, Janice (Michael) Wright, John Steffen and Denise (David) Lawrence; aunt, Theresa (Tony) Barbarito; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Services for Lilly will be held at a later date.

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

Richard C. Burroughs, 92, of Lady Lake, Fla. and formerly of Albion, passed away on March 29, 2020 after a brief illness.

He is survived by his daughters, Anita (Doug Chapman) Dunn of Lockport, Carol (Rick) Stengel of Lady Lake, and Linda Bennett of Lockport; his stepdaughter, Lonny (Frank) Douglas of Sanford, N.C.; his sons, James of Lockport and Andrew (Kelly) of Bellview, Fla.; his brother, John Burroughs of Boston, N.Y.; his sister, Joan Linkowski of Lewiston, N.Y.; 16 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his wife of 58 years, Audrey (Bieber); his eldest son, Richard M. Burroughs; his brothers, Kenneth Burroughs of Delmar, N.Y. and Leroy Burroughs of Albion; and his sister, Lois (Jean) Janesek of New York City.

Richard was born on June 29, 1927 in Milford, Conn. He married and raised his family in Albion. Richard served his country in the United States Navy and worked for Lipton’s until his retirement in 1989, at which time he moved to The Villages in Lady Lake. He was an avid golfer, pool player, baseball player and bowler.

We will miss his dry sense of humor and his love for his grandchildren.

His memorial service will be held at a later date.

Lois Christine Walker, 74, of Gasport, passed away peacefully at Buffalo General Hospital on March 25, 2020 after a short illness.

She is survived by her husband, Christopher M. Romney; daughter, Carey R. (Patrick Gullo) Leibring; son, Rob C. (Dee-Ann Courcy) Leibring; stepdaughter, Stephanie A. (Jason) Waldron and their children; stepson, Daniel A. Romney; brother, William F. (Ann Marie) Walker Jr.; sister, Corinne (Wallace) Coates; sister-in-law, Esther Walker; and many others.

She was predeceased by her parents, William F. Walker Sr. and Lois G. Walker; brother, Philip H. Walker; and stepdaughter, Tiffany M. Romney.

Christine was born Oct. 12, 1945 and grew up in Barker. She was a graduate of Barker High School in 1963, and she obtained an MS in primary education from Brockport State College. Christine was dedicated to teaching at Gasport Elementary in the Roy-Hart School District until 2009.

Her memorial service will be held at a later date to be announced.

Donations in her memory may be made to Roswell Park Cancer Institute or National Audubon Society.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Sherry Bream Funeral Home in Gasport. To share a special memory of Christine, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

James L. Fackler, 66, of Albion, died unexpectedly March 28, 2020 at Medina Memorial Hospital. He was born Aug. 12, 1953 in Albion, a son of the late John and Pearl Fackler, and he lived in this area all of his life.

Jim retired from Orleans County, where he worked as a dispatcher for many years. He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Medina. Jim was an avid outdoorsman. He was known for driving his skid steer for hours, landscaping and farming his own land of 60 acres. He loved being in the woods. He built a cabin on his land and could be found sitting by a campfire. Jim and his wife would go to the Steam Pageants in Canandaigua. He was a collector of Massey Harris tractors, and he loved to ride around in his truck collecting items he called “treasures.”

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister, Maria Draper; one niece and two nephews.

He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Beverly; his sons, Tim (Bethany Bentivegna) Fackler and Andrew (Gina Yaskivich) Fackler; grandsons, Andrew Jr. and Collin; his siblings, Marguerite Churchill, Edward (Diane) Fackler, Judy (Jack) Maines, Phyllis Misso, Bonnie Stremich and Roger (Marilyn) Fackler; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

There will be no calling hours. His memorial service will be held at the convenience of the family.

Memorials may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church, 1212 West Ave., Medina NY 14103.

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

Steven T. Sills, 50, was suddenly called to be with the Lord on Mon., March 23, 2020.

He was born in Albion to William and Brenda (Horth) Sills and lived in this area most of his life. He attended Lyndonville schools and graduated in 1987. After high school, Steven enlisted in the U.S. Army, 82nd Airborne Division, and he served in Iraq during Desert Storm. During his service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Southwest Asia Service Medal with Bronze Service Star, Army Good Conduct Medal, and an Army Achievement Medal. After the Army, he went to Fordham University in New York City, graduating with two bachelor’s degrees. He had memberships in a few veterans’ clubs, and he was actively involved with WNY Mobile Overdose Prevention Services and Orleans-Recovery Hope Begins Here.

Steven enjoyed reading, writing, gardening and being outdoors. He was also active with volunteer work, especially helping his mother with her Hospice clients. With a belief in teaching people to self-motivate and self-teach, he bought a violin and taught himself how to play it. Being a history buff, Steven traveled all over the world and developed a love for Israel. He was known for his wit, intellect, compassion, love for people, and so many random acts of kindness; he left a positive impression on just about all he met.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by a sister, Laura Sills-Merkl of Medina; two nieces, Jacey Sills of the Netherlands and Lexey Cornelius of Medina; aunts and uncles, Christine (Edward) Walczak Sr. of Albion, Eileen (Jim) Quinlivan of Northville, N.Y., Barrie (Cindi) Horth of Holley, and Ronald “Butch” (Nancy) Horth of Waterport; several cousins and friends; and furry companion, Puff.

He was predeceased by his great-grandparents, George and Pheobe (Axtell) Strickland; grandparents, Alice “Sue” Sills, Raymond Sills, Lee Horth and Arlene Horth Sipple; and uncle, Wayne Horth.

There will be no calling hours. Steven’s memorial service will be announced at a later date. A private burial will take place in Otter Creek Cemetery with full military honors.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of Orleans, P.O. Box 489, Albion NY 14411; or to PAWS Animal Shelter, 3371 Gaines Basin Road, Albion NY 14411.

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

Kenneth John “Ken” Spychalski, 91, of Holley, went to heaven to be with his Lord on March 16, 2020.

Ken attended Holley High School, where he was a part of the 1946 Section Five Basketball Championship team and is also on the Wall of Fame at the school. He was an avid hunter in the local area, hunting deer and turkey. His greatest love was for his wife, children, 10 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He worked at Eastman Kodak for many years as a pipefitter and leadman.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his daughter, Peggy Bradshaw, on Sept. 25, 2015; and by several of his siblings.

Ken is survived by his beloved wife and partner of 67 years, Mary Ann; children, Mark (Robin), Mary (Albert) Moss, and Matthew; son-in-law, Lonnie Bradshaw; sister, Joann (Roger) Herman; special niece, Diane (Peter) Pellegrino; as well as extended family, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

A memorial service to celebrate Ken’s life will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions in Ken’s name may be made to The Open Door Mission, 156 N. Plymouth Ave., Rochester NY 14608; or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN 38105; or to a charity of your choice.

Ken’s arrangements have been entrusted to Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc., 16650 State Route 31, Holley NY 14470.

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

Lynn R. Watts, 67, of Lyndonville, passed away on Mon., March 23, 2020 at Eastern Niagara Hospital, after a long illness. He was born on April 3, 1952 in Buffalo, a son of the late Robert and Crystal (Bayne) Watts.

Lynn graduated from Lyndonville High School and was employed for 30 years at Eastman Kodak of Rochester. Lynn loved everything having to do with the outdoors, hunting, fishing, and road trips to find antiques.

Lynn is survived by his two children, Michele (Eric) Harling of Lyndonville and James (Kim) Watts of Huntingtown, Md.; and three grandchildren, Alexandra, Jessica and Nolan.

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, 112 N. Main St., Lyndonville NY 14098.

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