Obituaries

MEDINA – Joseph J. Bochsler, Jr., of Medina, NY, age 92, entered into rest peacefully on Tuesday, October 22, 2024 at the Crossroads House in Batavia.

Born July 21, 1932 in the Town of Royalton, he was the son of the late Joseph J. Bochsler, Sr. and Paulina (Leuzinger) Bochsler. Mr. Bochsler graduated from Barker High School, Class of 1950. Early on he worked on his family’s farm before starting his career in truck driving. He married the former Lucretia E. Hessel at St. Mary’s RC Church in Medina on September 18, 1965. Mr. Bochsler was a member of Teamsters Local #449 in Buffalo. For eight years he owned and operated his own rig. He then drove for Consolidated Freightways, retiring in 1992. Mr. Bochsler was a faithful parishioner of Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church, Medina. There he served as usher and eucharistic minister. He was a 4^th Degree member of the Knights of Columbus, Medina Council #651 for over 50 years. Mr. Bochsler enjoyed a good cigar and listening to polka. He especially enjoyed taking a trip with his wife, Lucretia to Germany and Switzerland.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister, Mary Ann Demo.He is survived by his wife, Lucretia Bochsler of Medina; daughter, Heidi (Thomas III) Tribunella of Webster; two grandchildren, Thomas J. Tribunella IV of Cheektowaga and Clara Anne Tribunella of Plattsburgh; brother in-law, Joseph Demo of Virginia; sister in-law, Karen (David) Barnard, Sr. of Middleport; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, Oct. 25 from 4-6PM at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. His Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, Oct. 26 at 10AM at Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church, 211 Eagle St., Medina, NY 14103. Interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Crossroads House, PO Box 403, Batavia, NY 14020 www.crossroadshouse.com or to Holy Trinity Parish at the address above. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

MEDINA – Carmela Gray, age 90, of Medina, NY entered into rest on Sunday, October 20, 2024 at the Orchard Rehab & Nursing Center.

Born November 4, 1933 in Medina, she was a daughter of the late John and Angeline (Fontana) Licinio. Growing up in the Medina area, she married G. Russell Gray, Sr. on September 24, 1955. Carmela was a homemaker most of her life. She was proud of her Sicilian heritage. Her main focus was always her family. She loved her children and enjoyed watching the “little ones” grow. In later years, she enjoyed travelling.

Predeceased by her husband, Russell Gray, Sr. in 1996; brother, Michael (Carol) Licinio; sister, Margaret Varley; infant sister, Mary Licinio; mother in-law, Genevieve Tesnow; brother in-law, Lawrence (Aldine) Gray; and sister in-law, Luella Caleb.

Survivors include her two sons, Gerald (Pamela) Gray, Jr. of Lockport and Paul (Deanna) Gray of Medina; five grandchildren, Carrie (Nicholas) Gugliuzza, Nicholas (Amanda) Gray, Nicole (Ben) Pritchard, Steven (Maxine) Gray and David (Sarah) Gray; six great-grandchildren (and one on the way), Carter and Avery Gray, Giovanna and Vivianna Gugliuzza, Eliza Gray, Mila Gray and baby girl Gray; brother, John (Delores) Licinio; special BFF, Sami-Lynn Denniston; many nieces and nephews.

Services will be held privately at the convenience of the family. Interment will be in Millville Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Orchard Rehab & Nursing Center- Activities Fund, 600 Bates Road, Medina, NY 14103. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

MEDINA – Our beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, Barbara Jean Dunn, died on 09/25/2024 after a long illness. She was 68.

Barbara was the heart of our home and family. Married for 48 years to her soulmate, John, they raised three children, John Jr. (50), Jason (49), and Travis (45), in a loving and thoughtful home. She is survived by them all, along with five sisters – Vicki Eckerd, Kristal Boring, Kristina Anderson, Ladena Anderson and Jacqueline Schall.

She was a fantastic grandmother to 9 grandchildren and 1 great-grandson. Born in Batavia, she lived most of her life in Medina, NY and moved to Statesville, NC in January 1995. She worked for many years at Starlite Dry Cleaners in Medina and was a well-known and respected member of the community.

Barbara was pre-deceased by her parents, Edgar and Emma Jean Anderson as well as her siblings, Edgar (Dutch) Anderson, Earl Anderson of Medina, NY and Catherine Beehler of Ohio.

Services for family will be determined at a later date. In the meantime, she requests that you all have a memory, a laugh and raise a glass in remembrance to a wonderful life lived with loving family and friends.

In lieu of flowers or donations , all friends and family are encouraged to give to their local Hospice Caregiving institutions.

MEDINA – Norma Jane Jones of Medina, NY, passed away peacefully on October 17, 2024 at Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital. She was born on December 18, 1941 in North Tonawanda, a daughter of the late Jane (Crittenden) and Clarence Kraus.

Norma grew up in Barker and graduated from Barker High School, where she met the love of her life, her husband, Gary Jones.

The two spent their young life raising five boys together: Jeff (Barbb) Jones, Tim (Dawn) Jones, Dan (Sean) Philpott-Jones, Chris (Anita) Jones and Ric (Karen) Jones.

Norma is also survived by her grandchildren: Jasmine (Jason) Michalski, Cody (Taylor) Jones, Patrick (Shannon) Jones, Morgan Jones, Nich (Julie) Jones, Ryder Jones, River Jones, Nicole Montpetit and Isiah Montpetit; and great-granddaughter, Maia Michalski.

Norma and Gary made their home in the West Shelby neighborhood of Medina, where the two shared an incredible 64-year adventure and love story. Together, they traveled and camped all over the United States. Recently, they traveled out West, visiting all the places they had long ago taken their young family. On that trip, Norma was especially taken with a statue in South Dakota called Dignity.

Norma was known for her deep love for her family and her faith in a loving God. She believed that the Red House Campground at Allegany State Park, which she visited every year of her life since she was a small girl, was the most magical place on earth. She is remembered for her steadfast loyalty, her infectious laughter, her eye for interior decorating, and her love of all things Christmas. In more recent years, Gary and Norma were faithful volunteers working for local elections.

For more than 18 years, she also dedicated much of her time to the Medina Mustang Marching Band Boosters, serving as the Uniform Chairperson and band mom to dozens of children. She passed her love of music on to her children and grandchildren, some of whom made it their life’s work.

Norma was a talented gardener, a gifted quilter who hand-stitched all of her work, a clever wordsmith, and a prolific reader. Many in Medina knew Norma for her deep love of books from her many years of working at the Lee-Whedon Memorial Library. In retirement, she helped as a de facto ambassador of the library and member of the Friends of the Library. She regularly delivered and retrieved book loans to shut-ins and to those without transportation. Norma was also a member of the Kindness Committee at her church, St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church of Medina. At wedding receptions, Norma was proud that she and her husband so often won “dance-offs” for the couple who had been married the longest.

She is predeceased by her mother and stepfather, Jane and Vern Spears; and her brothers, Dave and Ken Kraus.

Family and friends are invited to attend her memorial service and Celebration of Life on Saturday, Nov. 2 at 11 a.m. at St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1355 West Ave., Medina. The service will be followed by a light luncheon. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Norma’s name may be made to the Lee-Whedon Memorial Library, 620 West Ave., Medina, NY 14103 or to St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church at the address above.

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

ALBION – Salvatore F. “Sam” Neri, age 90, passed away October 17, 2024 at the Villages of Orleans surrounded by his loving family. He was born April 27, 1934 in Albion to the late Saverio and Esther (Sacco) Neri and remained in this area his entire life.

He was a 1952 graduate of Albion High School before he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, serving in the Korean War. Sam was a member of Holy Family Parish-St. Joseph’s Church and as a boy, he helped rebuild the altar after a fire.

He was very involved with his children and coached their little league baseball and his girls’ softball teams. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, Albion Elks Lodge B.P.O.E. #1006 and served on the Democratic Committee for many years. Sam was integral with starting up St. Vincent DePaul in Albion where he was very active.

Sam worked for NYS Gas and Electric then worked at Eastman Kodak retiring in 1991. After his retirement, he worked at the Orleans Correctional Facility and Lifetime Assistance. He enjoyed meeting his friends for coffee, especially back when the Apollo Restaurant was open. Sam was an avid NY Yankees and Buffalo Bills fan. But most importantly, his family came first and he loved spending time with them.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his by his siblings, Lena Quagliana, Charlie Neri and Patsy Neri; daughter-in-law, Nancy Neri; great-granddaughter, Ciara Callicutt; and great-grandson, Maddox Pearl.

Sam is survived by his loving wife of nearly 70 years, Sandra (Brooks) Neri; children Lynnette Wright, Kim Achzet, Scott (Debra) Neri and Jennifer Fitzwater; grandchildren Zachary (Gaby Watson) Achzet, Sarah (Rayford) Callicutt, Ashley (James DiMatteo) Neri, Patrick (Melissa Olles) Neri, Jessica (Mike) Kincaid, Katelyn (Ryan) Pearl, Riley Fitzwater, Abby (Patrick Ricker) Fitzwater and Lauren (Jeremy Mallett) Fitzwater; 14 great-grandchildren as well as many nieces, nephews and friends.

Sam’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 21 West Ave. Albion, NY 14411 on Wednesday, October 23rd from 4 to 8 p.m. His Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Joseph’s Church W. Park St. Albion, NY 14411 on Thursday at 11 a.m. Interment with military honors will be held at Mt. Albion Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Sam’s name may be made to DIPG Foundation.  To mail a check, Tough2gether Foundation, 2201 Columbian Rd., Wamego KS 66547, put Maddox Pearl in the memo.

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

MEDINA – Loretta A. Bensley, of Medina, NY went to be with the Lord and all of the loved ones that passed before her, on Tuesday, October 15, 2024.

Born February 25, 1963 in Buffalo, Loretta was the daughter of the late William and Alice (Kibler) Carder. She graduated from Medina High School in the class of 1981. That same year, she married the love of her life, Timothy M. Bensley. The couple moved to Dallas, Texas, where they resided for 20 years. There she worked as a district manager for Bags & Baggage, a high-end luggage company. After the birth of their daughter, Destinee, they decided to move the family back up to Western New York. Loretta was a florist by trade and in 2004 opened the Gift Garden in Middleport. Despite her various health issues in recent years, in December of 2023, Loretta was blessed to become a “Nanna” with the birth of her grandson, Mason, which greatly enriched her life. She was loved by so many people, everyone she came in contact with. She was a selfless, loving and caring soul that would sacrifice her own needs for those of others and will be greatly missed by all.

In addition to her parents, Loretta was preceded in death by her in-laws, Donald and Ann Bensley; and two sisters-in-law, Kathy Callard and Melanie Carder.

Left to cherish her memory are her beloved husband of 43 years, Timothy Bensley; daughter, Destinee Bensley (fiancé, Matthew Kerr); grandson, Mason Kerr; brothers, Shannon Carder and Bill Carder; sister-in-law, Donna Humphrey; brothers-in-law, Scott (Rose Ann) Bensley and Terry (Dawn) Bensley; “daughters”, Rachel Monagan and Amber Castrechino; and several nieces, nephews and friends.

No services will be held at this time. A celebration of Loretta’s life will be announced at a later date. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share memories and condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

MEDINA – Amelia E. van den Bosch, age 96, of Medina, NY passed away peacefully at her home on Tuesday, October 15, 2024.

Born in Roccamorice, Abruzzo, Italy on October 31, 1927, she was a daughter of the late Benjamin and Angela (DiCarlo) Ventura. At the age of 7, her family immigrated to the United States, arriving through Ellis Island. Amelia grew up in Lockport. There she met the love of her life, Cornelius “Corky” van den Bosch. The couple were wed on December 27, 1947. In 1956 they moved to Medina. Alongside her husband, Corky, she first ran the Medina Bakery on Main Street for a few years and then Corky’s Bakery on E. Center Street, which they ran for many years. Amelia spent her years dedicated to her husband and their family. When she was not helping in the bakery, she enjoyed travelling with her husband, reading, knitting and sewing.

Amelia was predeceased by her husband, Corky van den Bosch in 1995; sons, Jeffrey in 1998 and Dennis in 2010; and siblings, Anthony Ventura, Joseph Ventura and Concetta DiPastena.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughters, Donna Schickler and Angela (late John) Waldriff; grandchildren, Todd Stornelli, Mark (Jennifer) Stornelli, Anthony van den Bosch, Lindsey van den Bosch, Bethany Stilwell, Tyler Waldriff and Tanner Waldriff; and many great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Her funeral services will be held privately by the family. Interment in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Medina. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of Orleans at www.hospiceoforleans.org. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com

MIDDLEPORT – Patricia Carpenter, age 92, passed away peacefully on October 12, 2024 at Niagara Hospice House. She was born January 5, 1932 in Middleport to the late Harold and Theresa (McNally) Austin.

Pat was a loving Mother, Sister, Grandmother and Great-Grandmother. She adored her family and thoroughly enjoyed spending time with them especially at Christmas. Seeing everyone together brought her so much joy.

As a young woman, Pat went to night school to become a beautician. She opened Pat’s Beauty Salon out of her home and operated that for 50+ years. She had plenty of good conversations and gossip with her regular customers.

Pat took pride in working in the cafeteria for Roy-Hart Elementary School. She couldn’t wait to go to work everyday so she could see and help the kids. If their lunchbox was dirty, she would clean it. If a student didn’t have lunch money, she made sure they had something to eat.

Her hobbies included going to craft shows, traveling with her husband and collecting salt and pepper shakers. If she wasn’t baking something in the kitchen she was doing some crafting. She was also an avid Bingo player and took it very seriously, but don’t they all? It’s a very serious business. If you asked her if she won anything tonight, she would say no, I’m on a losing streak and going to stop going pretty soon. Although, more times than not, she won money a few days prior.

Pat is forever loved by all who knew her. Her love, hugs and laughter will be missed but never forgotten.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband Thomas, and brother Harold “Gene” Austin.

Pat is survived by her children, Susan (Michael) Bull, Thomas Carpenter III, Deborah (Michael) Carpenter-Fraass, grandchildren, Tracy Ranallo, Jeremy (JoLynn) Bull, Thomas (Jennifer) Carpenter IV, Jason (Julie Faust) Carpenter, Lindsay (late Jim Brazzell) Bull, Austin (Rebecca) Carpenter, Casey (Kevin Reid) Pollock, Breanne (Nathan) Heine, Tyler (Tori) Fraass, 11 great grandchildren, siblings, Barbara (Donald) Shelton, Sandra (Jack) Weger as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Pat’s family will receive friends at the Bates, Wallace & Heath Funeral Home 38 State St. Middleport, NY 14105 on Monday, October 21st from 4:00-7:00pm. Her funeral service will be held the next day at the funeral home at 11:00am. Interment will be in Royalton Mountain Ridge Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Niagara Hospice 4675 Sunset Dr. Lockport, NY 14094 or the Alzheimer’s Association 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601.

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

ALBION –  William J. “Bill” Sargent, Sr. age 85, passed away October 14, 2024 at Elderwood of Lakeside at Brockport.  He was born January 15, 1939 in Albion, a son of the late Wayne and Marie (Robinson) Sargent and had lived in this area all of his life.

Bill had worked at Eastman Kodak as a Pipe Fitter and after retiring he owned and operated Sargent’s Plumbing and Heating for many years.  He was a member of Holy Family Parish in Albion, the Albion’s Active Hose and the Albion Lions Club.  He enjoyed camping, tending to his animals and spending time with his family.   

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife Barbara; sisters Patricia, Betty, Shirley and Peggy. He is survived by his children William (Darlen) Sargent, Jr, Susan Proietty, Scott (Alicia) Sargent, Todd (Sharon) Sargent, Christopher (Julie) Sargent; grandchildren Lindsay Monacelli, Brandon Sargent, Stephanie Hirsch, Zachery Sargent, Shelby Sargent, Mark Proietty, Michael Sargent, Keira Sargent, Sienna Sargent, Ariel Pontillo, Mackenzie Luft; great-grandchildren Grayson, Landon, Aleah, Chazz, Oliver, Palmer, Adelaide, Judd; brother Carl “Sonny” Sargent as well as several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank the staff at Evergreen and Elderwood for the wonderful love and care they showed Bill.His Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Family Parish-St. Joseph’s Church on Tuesday October 22nd at 10:00am.  His burial will be in St. Joseph’s Cemetery.  Memorials may be made to P.A.W.S. 3371 Gaines Basin Rd. Albion NY 14411 or to the Orleans County Animal Control Shelter, 4125 Oak Orchard Rd. Albion NY 14411.  Arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Albion.

To share a memory of Bill, visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

ALBION – David Narburgh, of Woodbridge, Virginia, passed away on September 22, 2024, at the age of 78. He was born on February 5, 1946, in Albion, NY.

David is survived by his wife of over 50 years, Janice; his daughters Sarah and Molly (Steven); his grandson Miles; his brothers Gary (Cathy) and Charlie; and several cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Sidney and Marguerite Narburgh, and his brother Larry (2003).

David loved traveling and spending quality time with family and friends. His hobbies included gardening, playing cards, enjoying nature walks, and exploring geography through maps and National Geographic magazines. He was actively involved in his daughters’ lives, joining them on band trips, attending their sporting events and award ceremonies, and celebrating their achievements.

David dedicated his career to helping others improve their speech. He earned a Bachelor of Science from SUNY Fredonia and a Master of Education in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Virginia. He began as a Speech-Language Therapy teacher at the Newark State School, where he developed a program for school-aged residents and later taught basic skills to hearing-impaired adults with additional disabilities. He then served as the Speech-Language Pathologist Program Director at Easter Seals in Virginia and provided services at the Central Virginia Speech & Hearing Center. From 1982 to 2016, he was the Executive Director of the Prince William Speech and Hearing Center.

In memory of David, donations can be made to the Communication Disorders Foundation of Virginia. His contributions are honored through the David H. Narburgh scholarship, which supports students with exceptional clinical potential. Please send donations by check to: Tamara Freeman-Nichols, Treasurer, P.O. Box 6342, Charlottesville, VA 22906-6342.

ALBION – Virginia M. Conrad, age 93, passed away October 10, 2024 at the Villages of Orleans. She was born November 5, 1930, in Harrisville NY, a daughter of the late Robert and Dorothy (Wahl) Waugh and had lived in this area most of her life.

Virginia was a member of the Albion United Methodist Church and the Order of the Eastern Star. She retired from Arnold Gregory Memorial Hospital where she worked as a clerk and then worked at Burgio Tires in Albion.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Harold; daughter, Jill Stinson; and her brothers and sisters.

She is survived by her sons, Don Conrad, Dean Conrad and Frank Conrad; grandchildren, Jake, Joe, Candi, Stephanie and D.J.; great-grandchildren, Leighton, Rylie and Zoie; and son-in-law, Robin Stinson.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, 21 W. Ave. Albion on Wednesday October 16th from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. where her Memorial Service will be held at 1 p.m. Burial will be in Mt. Albion Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the organization of your choice.

To share a memory of Virginia, visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

HOLLEY – Margaret (Allport) (Miller) Brundage, age 81, died October 9, 2024 in Highland Hospital. She was born June 18, 1943 in Albion to Clifford and Agatha (Davis) Allport and had lived in this area most of her life.

Margaret was a former member of the Red Hat Ladies, and enjoyed bowling, dining out, cook-outs and gardening. She loved her animals, especially the chickens and ducks and Duke the Rottie, but most of all enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren.

Mrs. Brundage was predeceased by her husband; Robert; prior to her siblings, Gladys, Audrey, Leroy and her twin sister Marjorie.

She is survived by her children: Becky (John) Bush of Waterport, Ed Miller Jr. of Holley, Chris (Amber Kipler) Miller of Carlton; her sister, Barbara Newbould of Barre; 4 grandchildren, Alexandra (Mike), Brandon, Zachary and Nicholas; a great-grandson on the way, Barrett; as well as several nieces and nephews.

There will be no calling hours. Family and friends are invited to attend a graveside service in Bates Road Cemetery on Friday October 18th beginning at 12 noon.  A celebration of Margaret’s life will be held at a later date, on June 18, 2025.

Margaret’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home of Albion.  To share a special memory of Margaret, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

MEDINA – Shirley M. Tracey (nee Beichner), age 77, of Medina, NY passed away unexpectedly on October 8, 2024 in Rochester. Born on February 10, 1947, Shirley dedicated over 25 years as an Associate of the Franciscan Sisters of St. Joseph in Hamburg.

She is survived by her husband of 30 years, Rich Tracey; daughters, Jennifer Pekarski, Heather Wetzel, Erin Hendricks; bonus daughters, Dr. Julie Young, Kate Coleman, Angie Law and Kadie Gauda; siblings, Robin Lehr, Duke Beichner, Wesley Krantz and Jerry Krantz; lifelong friend, Renee Kachigian; twelve grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. Shirley was preceded in death by her daughter, Rhonda Rutherford Pearce Previte; sister, Sharon Salazar; and parents, Robert and Norma Beichner and Twyla and Gerald Krantz.

An hour of viewing will be held on Saturday Oct. 12 from 10-11AM, immediately followed by her funeral service at 11AM at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Interment will be in Acacia Park Cemetery, N. Tonawanda.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Franciscan Sisters of St. Joseph at www.franciscansistersofsaintjoseph.org. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com

BROOMFIELD, CO – Peter M. Theodorakos, age 68, passed away after a brief illness on September 13, 2024. He was born May 29, 1956 in Albion, NY to the late Alex and Harriet (Earnst) Theodorakos.

Peter proudly served in the Marine Corps as a recon marine, attaining the rank of Corporal E4. He graduated from Colorado State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Geology. Peter spent his career as a Geologist for the US Dept. of Interior.

Peter is survived by his wife, Cathleen “Kate” (Swiercznski) Theodorakos; daughters, Emily and Grace; siblings, James (Peggy) Theodorakos, Paul (Joan) Theodorakos and Michael (Brenda) Theodorakos; brothers and sisters-in-law, Maureen (George) Cordero, Tod (Darla) Swiercznski, Eileen (Jim) Aina, Colleen (Rick) Brade, Christeen Lusk and Patrick (Mattea) Swiercznski; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Peter’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 21 West Ave. Albion, NY 14411 on Friday, November 8, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. His graveside service and military honors to follow at Mt. Albion Cemetery at 1:30 p.m. Memorial contributions in Peter’s name may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice. To share a special memory of Peter, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

KENT/ BROCKPORT – Audrey Lorene (McGee) Wheelock, 95, of Kent/Brockport, NY, passed away on October 8, 2024 at Elderwood of Lakeside of Brockport. Audrey was born May 25, 1929 to the late James and Evalena (Galliford) McGee.

Audrey graduated from Batavia High School and did secretarial work at Sealtest Ice Cream Company in Batavia for 6 years until marrying Eldred (Chet) Wheelock on April 5, 1952. She and Chet farmed near Lake Ontario for 34 years, with Audrey keeping the books. After retiring from farming, Audrey worked 9 years at Brown’s Berry Patch and they enjoyed being snowbirds in Florida for 19 years, where they made many wonderful new friends. Audrey was very involved in the Gaines Carlton Community Church as Sunday School Superintendent and teacher. She also served as the Memorial Fund Chairperson and was always helping in the church kitchen.

In addition to her parents, she is predeceased by her husband Chet and her brothers, Roger and Alan.Audrey is survived by her children: Peggy (Joseph) Bropst of Kent, NY, Marcia (Robert) Murphy of Kimbolton, OH, Ronald Wheelock of Kent, NY, Jill (Fabian) Strong of Coquille, OR; grandchildren: Jeremy (Amy) Mikels of Webster, NY, Adam (Kristin) Mikels of Westwood, MA, Stacey Bell of Coquille, OR, Andrew and Rebecca Wheelock of Rochester, NY, Jaye Murphy of Lebanon, NH; great-grandchildren: Mason, Colton and Nora Mikels; sister-in-law Betty McGee of Columbia, MD; as well as nieces, nephews and cousins.

The Family will receive friends at the Gaines Carlton Community Church, 14584 Ridge Rd, Albion, NY 14411 on Saturday, October 12, 2024, from 2:00 to 4:00, with a memorial service at 4:00. Interment at the convenience of the family at Beechwood Cemetery.Memorial donations to the church are encouraged in lieu of flowers.

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

BARRE –  Joan B. Wraight, age 87, passed away October 6, 2024 at Strong Memorial Hospital following a brief illness.  She was born January 9, 1937 in Albion, a daughter of the late Alva and Monica (Starkweather) Bates, and had lived in this area all of her life.

Joan was a life-long member of the Barre Center Presbyterian Church, participating in nearly every capacity of leadership and service. She played piano and organ for area churches, sang in the choir at Barre Center and rang in the handbell choir.  She graduated from the University of Buffalo with her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. Once her youngest started kindergarten, she worked in the finance office at Arnold Gregory Memorial Hospital, becoming Fiscal Administrator. She later moved on to Genesee Community College as the Assistant Director of Finance. On retirement, she became an election inspector for the Town of Barre.

Quiet and reserved, Joan expressed her love for others through acts of service and a listening ear. She was honest and caring,and known by all for her integrity, organization, and intelligence. Joan alsoloved reading, gardening, animals and watching westerns. She was a whiz at Sudoku. Her canning and cooking skills were exceptional, and she could crank out homemade pies as easily as if she were making toast. Her greatest joys and pleasures, though, were her family, both  immediate and extended. She loved her community with her whole, quiet heart.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Wilford “Willie”, her son Perry and her sister Midge Warren. She is survived by her son Alan (Nancy) Wraight; daughter Margaret “Peggy” (John Buchan) Wraight; granddaughters Erin (Wayne) Baker, Christina (Mark) Ingold; great-grandsons Ellis and Rhett Baker as well as several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, October 9, from 4 PM to 7 PM at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home (21 West Ave, Albion, NY.)  Her Funeral Service will be on Thursday, October 10, at 12:00pm at the Barre Center Presbyterian Church, (4698 Oak Orchard Rd, Albion, NY.)  Burial will be in Mt. Albion Cemetery.  Memorials may be made to the church. To share a special memory of Joan, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

KENDALL – Mary Lou Lockhart, age 87 died October 5, 2024 in her home surrounded by her family.  She was born April 19, 1937  to Guy and Clara (Pratt) Stickney and had lived in this area for over 60 years.

Mary Lou was the former owner/operator of The Dutch Treat restaurant in Hamlin.  She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, an avid reader, and enjoyed doing jigsaw and sudoku puzzles.  Mary Lou had a very strong and committed relationship with her Lord.  More importantly, Mary Lou loved her family, especially her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and her beloved dog, Ginger.  Mrs. Lockhart was predeceased by several siblings.

She is survived by her husband of 60 years Robert, her children: William (Pauline Wheeler) Betz of AK, Peggy of Kent, Bobbie (Alma Lindsey) Lockhart of Brockport, Guyla (Michael) Lockhart-Morey of Hamlin, Susie Sollinger of Greece, as well as several grandchildren and great grandchildren.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 21 West Avenue-Albion SUNDAY 10/13 from 2-4 where her Funeral Service will be held immediately following visitation at 4 p.m.   Her graveside service in the WNY National Cemetery will be held at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to American Lung Association, 55 W. Wacker Dr., Suite 1150, Chicago, IL, 60601.

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

ALBION – Linda L. Ciccoline passed away on October 4, 2024, at her home, surrounded by her loving family.  Linda was born July 25, 1950 at Montgomery Hospital in Kanawha WV, the daughter of the late George Miller and Vastie (Stewart) Miller. She was second oldest of 6 children; John (Betty) Stewart, Robin Miller, Patricia (Gus) Revelas III, Sam (Dorothy) Miller and William (Haley) Miller.  On October 11, 1969 she married the love of her life, Frederick Ciccoline.

Together they made their home in Albion, NY where they raised their two children. What an unforgettable journey Linda and Fred shared over 55 years!Linda is survived by her loving husband, Frederick Ciccoline; daughter, Melinda (Ricky) Daniels; son, Frederick (Nancy) Ciccoline II; grandchildren, Brittany (Lawrence) Slocum-Warren; Eliza (Donald) McClary; Kassie (James) White; Kolton Cotter and Felicia (Aaliyiah) Ciccoline; great-grandchildren, Elliot, Elijah, Kinzley, Emlyn, Chase, Axton and Easton. Linda is also survived by her sister in law, Annette (Stephen) Coville and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Linda is preceded in death by her brother, Robin Miller; father and mother in law, John and Jane Ciccoline; brothers in laws, John B. Ciccoline (Skipper) and Stephen Coville. A private service will be planned at the family’s discretion.

Any donations can be made to Hospice of one’s choice. A very special thank you to Hospice of Monroe and Linda’s nurse, Kim and aid, Linda.

ALBION – Richard J. Tynan, 68, of Albion, NY, passed away on October 5th. Richard “Dick” was born April 19th, 1956, in Rome, NY, the son of Richard and Nancy O’Donnell Tynan. He graduated from Seton Catholic High School in 1974 and held a Bachelor’s and Master’s in English from SUNY Brockport. Dick was many things to many people: To countless young trades students at Orleans/Niagara BOCES, he was the much-loved English teacher who always brightened their days and made a positive impact on their lives.

His passion for knowledge and his immense compassion made certain that anyone lucky enough to sit in a classroom with him, students and staff alike, would never forget him. To dozens of soccer players throughout Orleans County, he was the coach that they’ll cherish forever, who taught them to love the game and never forget to have fun. A soccer player since his youth and well into his later years, Dick’s keen intuition and tireless enthusiasm rubbed off on anyone who shared a field with him.

To so many musicians throughout Western NY, Dick was a devoted and talented player of the mandolin, the fiddle, and the guitar. He’s shared the stage with so many talents over the years, including his well-known Rochester-based band, DANG!. Whenever he could, he found so much joy playing with fellow lovers of bluegrass, be it on stage, at a crowded festival, in an empty hallway, out on the lawn – wherever friends may meet with instruments at hand. To many free-spirited friends and strangers on motorcycles across the country, Dick was a riding buddy that was ever reliable and enjoyable. He was fond of taking long trips in good company, seeing new places and making good memories.

Remembering Richard for all of these things and so much more are his loving wife of forty-two years, Ellen Snow; his two sons, Travis (Sarah) and Jacob; his sisters, Katherine (Tom), and Ann; his brothers, Thomas (Joann), Martin (Michelle), Michael (Monica), Patrick (Reenee), and John (Angela); and his nieces and nephews, who are too numerous to name here. Preceding Richard in death are his parents, Richard F. and Nancy O’Donnell Tynan.

Calling hours and service will be held Friday, October 18th at Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 21 West Ave, Albion, NY, from 3:00-5:00pm with a short service following. Memorials can be sent to Orleans Community Health Foundation, 100 Ohio St, Medina, NY 14103, or Hospice of Orleans 14080 Route 31 West, Albion, NY, 14411.

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

AUSTIN, TX – Corrine (Walburn) Banach, age 57, has peacefully departed this life at Dell Seton Medical Center at The University of Texas after a short battle with bladder cancer on October 2, 2024.

She was born on October 26, 1966, in Batavia, NY, the daughter of Charles and Gloria (Baldwin) Walburn. Corrine lived in Albion, NY until 2017 and then moved to Austin, TX.

Corrine enjoyed crocheting, sewing and reading in her downtime. She really enjoyed spoiling her grandchildren and spending every chance she had with them.

She is survived by her daughter, Courtney (Nathan) Errington; son-in-law, Daniel Errington; grandchildren, Lola and Mason Errington; and uncles, Bernard (Linda) Baldwin and Ronald Walburn of Albion, NY.

There will be no visitation. Family and friends are invited to her celebration of life will be held on Saturday, October 5 at 4 p.m. at the Elgin Methodist Church, 17900 Lund Carlson Rd., Elgin, Texas 78621.