Obituaries

Linda R. Krogh, 70, of Hutchinson, Minn., passed away Fri., May 10, 2019 at her home in Hutchinson.

When Linda Ruth Olsen was born in Sharon, Conn. on Aug. 8, 1948 to Odmund and Evelyn (Hale) Olsen, the world gained an exuberant, charismatic, witty and compassionate soul. Linda had a love of learning and pursued education throughout her life. She was valedictorian of her 1965 graduating class at Oakfield-Alabama Central High School. Linda went on to earn her Bachelor of Arts in anthropology, with a minor in linguistics, from the University of Minnesota, graduating magna cum laude in December 1970. After nearly a decade of enriching the lives of youth by teaching students in both remedial and gifted classes, Linda earned a master’s degree in counseling from St. Cloud State University in Minnesota. She went on to become a high school counselor and spent the second half of her career as a licensed psychologist, providing mental health counseling to children, teenagers and families. Linda also utilized her vast experience and education as an adjunct professor in the psychology department at Crown College in St. Bonifacius, Minnesota.

Linda loved traveling and spending cherished time with family and friends. In addition to many trips throughout the U.S., she also had the opportunity to visit far-off places, including India, Italy, Israel, British Columbia, South Korea and Norway (to visit the birthplace of her father). As evidenced by the thousands of photos she took of family and nature, Linda enjoyed capturing memories throughout the years with her camera. She also enjoyed seeing musicals, a good bargain shopping trip, a competitive game of Scrabble, creating a beautiful home, and playtime with children. Linda appreciated the flowers of springtime in all their splendor, picnics in the summer, and a walk on a crisp fall day with leaves rustling around her feet. As winter approached, she focused all preparations on her favorite of holidays, Christmas. The Christmas season was ushered in with a trip to the tree farm in search of the perfect Christmas tree. There was only one variety that was a match, sturdy enough for all her magnificent ornaments – the blue spruce. Another of Linda’s great traditions, enjoyed by family and friends, was her Christmas open house, when she decorated her home in all the rich splendor of the holiday season and baked delectable delights.

Throughout the years, Linda lived out her devotion to Jesus by serving in his church. She was a founding member of churches in Cottage Grove, Minn. and Houghton, S.D.  Linda enjoyed visiting with her friends after church; she was often one of the last people in church on any given Sunday. Her children have memories of falling asleep as she practiced piano on Saturday night in preparation for the church service the following day. In addition to playing piano and organ for a number of churches, Linda was also an avid participant in an assortment of church and community choirs. In fact, Linda met Jon at the Crow River Singers group, and they later were married on Jan. 14, 2006.

Along with her husband, Jon, Linda is survived by three children, Rachel Waldstein, Daniel (Jessica) Waldstein and Lydia Waldstein; a stepdaughter, Christina (Daniel Pou) Krogh; a sister, Amy (Joseph) Macaluso; two brothers, Rev. Erik (Cheryl) Olsen and Arnold (Pamela) Olsen; her first husband, Sam Waldstein; four grandchildren, Luke, Chloe and Benjamin Waldstein and Wilhelmina Pou; many nieces, nephews and cousins; and friends from around the world.

Friends may attend services for Linda at 11 a.m. Sat., May 25 at East Shelby Community Bible Church, 5278 E. Shelby Road, Medina (East Shelby). Linda’s brother, Rev. Erik Olsen, will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Linda’s memory may be made to Lewy Body Dementia Association, 912 Killian Hill Road S.W., Lilburn GA 30047.

Local arrangements were entrusted to Burdett and Sanford Funeral Home of Oakfield. Please leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle at www.burdettandsanford.com.

S. Joy Hewitt, 77, of Lantana, Fla., passed away in her home on Sat., May 11, 2019.

Joy moved from Medina to Florida in 1998 to assist in caring for her mother-in-law. She was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in 1959 and remained faithful right up to her passing. She enjoyed Bible study, sharing her faith, reading, doing crossword puzzles, and spending time with her beloved cats. Joy was a loving wife, mother and friend. Over the years, Joy touched many people as she cared for and helped her disabled and elderly friends. Her kindness made her a true treasure to those that knew her, and she was deeply loved by many.

Joy was predeceased by her parents, William W. Thaine and Christine (Lacey) Thaine Blackburn; her son, Kevin J. Hewitt; and her sister, Sheryl Hector.

She leaves behind her husband of 57 years, Wayne H. Hewitt of Lantana; four children, Robin J. (Ron) Years of La Habra, Calif., Karen L. (Darryl) Turkey of Brantford, Ontario, Jeffery S. (Jacqueline) Hewitt of Rochester, N.Y., and Heather M. (John) LaPiana of Lake Worth, Fla.; ten grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren.

Joy was a woman who had simple tastes and never wanted a fuss made over her. In accordance with her wishes, there are no funeral arrangements.

Estella Jean (Thom) Wright passed away peacefully with family by her side on Mon., May 13, 2019. She was born on Feb. 3, 1923 in Kane, Pa. to the late Benjamin and Lenora Galmish Thom.

She was a member of First Baptist Church of Albion.

Jean married Rance Wright in 1950 and raised four children. She was a hard worker, pitching in with the farm and tending to the children and the household.

Jean later spent many years with her partner, Nelson Snell. They created a beautiful floral garden at their home, as well as an abundant vegetable garden, and they enjoyed harvesting their crops and birdwatching. She “day-cared” her two daughters’ children through their younger years, sharing in many memorable moments for the kids. Jean could cook, bake, sew, iron and clean like nobody’s business, and her family often reaped the benefits of that.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her sons-in-law, Richard Stahl and Norm Starkweather; granddaughters, Elaine and Patricia Stahl; and all of her siblings except her baby sister, Lenora Anderson.

Jean is survived by her four children, Marilyn (Mike) Kilborn, Daniel (Lynne) Wright, Carolyn Starkweather, and Dave (Marcia) Thom; stepdaughter, Velma (Ed) Buttons; sister, Lenora Anderson; grandchildren, Matthew (Felicia) Kilborn, Jessica (Ryan Bethem) Kilborn, Michael Kilborn Jr., Jackie (Joseph) Stahl-Vasquez, Ed (Julie Kidney) Reid, Donna (George) Snell, Bridget (Jereme) Haley, and Jennifer (Steve Winans) Thom; great-grandchildren, Morgan (Elijah Giles) Haak, Joselyn and Rachel Kilborn; as well as several other grandchildren and great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.

She will be truly missed by her caregivers at The Villages. Though some days were difficult, she would often say “I love you” to her caregivers, and many of them shared the sentiment.

The family will receive friends on Fri., May 17 from 3 to 4 p.m. at Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc., 21 West Ave., Albion NY 14411, where her memorial service will follow immediately at 4 p.m.

Please make any donations to Alzheimer’s Association, 435 E. Henrietta Road, Rochester NY 14620; or to First Baptist Church, 30 W. Park St., Albion NY 14411; or to a charity of your choice.

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

Regis L. Flagler Jr., 57, of Lockport, died unexpectedly May 12, 2019 at his residence. He was born Oct. 14, 1961 in West Palm Beach, Fla. to Regis Sr. and Cleristine (Burrows) Flagler and lived in this area for more than 35 years.

In his earlier years, Regis loved the outdoors. He particularly enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping.

Mr. Flagler was predeceased by his father, Regis Flagler Sr.; his brother, David Flagler; and a nephew, Tyler Flagler.

He is survived by his mother, Cleristine Burrows Linn of Florida; two brothers, Bruce (Linda) Flagler of Gasport and Dennis Flagler of Florida; a stepsister, Loretta Linn of Florida; as well as several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

There are no calling hours. Service and interment in Royalton Mountain Ridge Cemetery will be held privately at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Niagara Hospice, 4675 Sunset Drive, Lockport NY 14094.

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

Joanne R. Welch, 80, of Holley, died May 11, 2019 at The Village of Orleans, following a long journey with Alzheimer’s disease. She was born April 13, 1939 in the Town of Murray to Edmund and Caroline (Dusett) Reamer and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Joanne was a member of Gaines Carlton Community Church, and she retired as an account clerk typist for the Orleans County Department of Social Services. She enjoyed knitting and crocheting, and she was a member of the Orleans County Home Bureau and the Sandy Creek Cemetery Association.

In addition to her parents, Joanne was predeceased by her sister, Louise Harty.

She is survived by her husband of 59 years, John “Charlie” Welch Sr.; her sons, John “Jack” Welch Jr. of Holley and Mark Welch of Buffalo; her daughter, Elizabeth “Beth” Schmidt of Albion; her grandchildren, Matthew (Brittany) Welch, Hayley Schmidt, Nicole Welch and Joshua (Katie) Welch; and her great-grandsons, Carter and Hudson.

There will be no calling hours. Family and friends are invited to attend Joanne’s Celebration of Life on Wed., May 22 at 3 p.m. at Gaines Carlton Community Church, 14585 Ridge Road, Albion NY 14411. Private interment in Sandy Creek Cemetery will take place at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Alzheimer’s Association of WNY – Team Joanne Medina Walk, 2805 Wehrle Drive Suite 6, Williamsville NY 14221-7383.

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

Clarence Richard Hare, 84, of Gasport, passed away on May 8, 2019 in Land O’ Lakes, Fla. He was born Oct. 24, 1934 to the late Clarence and Clara (Robison) Hare.

Richard (Clarence) was a successful innovator/entrepreneur who founded Trek, Inc. He was dedicated and loyal to his family and friends, and he was someone who could always be relied upon. Richard enjoyed spending the long winter months in Florida, visiting with old friends at the local coffee shops and finding irresistible deals at auctions and flea markets.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his siblings, Lucy Woodworth, Kenneth Hare, Henry LaVern Hare, Velsa Joyce Edwards, and Doris Hainsey.

Clarence is survived by his siblings, Marian Riley, Audrey Townsend and Velma Jean Schulwitz; and several nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to attend calling hours on Thu., May 30 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Sherrie Bream Funeral Home, 4521 Main St., Gasport NY 14067, where his service will be held immediately following at 12 p.m. Interment with military honors will take place in Hartland Central Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in Clarence’s name may be made to the National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation.

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

Anthony J. “Toby” Satkowski Jr., 73, of Medina, went to be with the Lord on Sat., May 11, 2019.

Born on Oct. 31, 1945 in Medina, he was the son of the late Anthony and Emma (Lukowski) Satkowski Sr.

Toby graduated from Medina High School and worked on the family farm all his life. He was a 50-year-plus member of the Shelby Volunteer Fire Company, a former member of Sacred Heart Church, and a member of Holy Trinity Parish. Toby enjoyed listening to his scanner radio, and playing computer games and card games with his family and friends.

Toby is survived by several aunts and uncles, including Richard and Barbara Satkowski of Medina, Anna Marciniak of Albion, and Martha Simbida of West Seneca; and several cousins, including Joseph (Charleen) Satkowski, Steven Satkowski, Karen Fox and Lydia Fox.

Relatives and friends may call on Fri., May 17 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St., Medina NY 14103. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Sat., May 18 at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church, with the Rev. Daniel J. Fawls celebrating. Burial will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Medina.

Memorials may be made in Toby’s name to Shelby Volunteer Fire Company, 4695 S. Gravel Road, Medina NY 14103; or to Holy Trinity, St. Mary’s Church.

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

Doris Elaine (McMahan) Fuller, 85, of Medina, went to be with the Lord on Sat., May 11, 2019 at her home.

Born on July 3, 1933 in McGregor, Texas, she was the daughter of the late Earl and Millie McMahan.

Doris grew up near the Fort Hood army base, where she met the love of her life, Lavern (Bud) Fuller, as he was stationed there while serving in the United States Army. She and Lavern were married on July 12, 1953 and then moved to Medina.

While raising six children, Doris worked part time at the Medina Dairy and at Bells Supermarket. She was an active member in the Mother’s Club at St. Mary’s School, helping to prepare daily lunches while her children attended school there. Doris was also a lifelong member of Court Santa Maria #295, Catholic Daughters of America.

Doris loved spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She enjoyed baking, sewing, gardening and golfing. Doris also loved visiting Myrtle Beach and spending Sundays with her family at her cottage on Lake Ontario.

She is survived by her loving husband of 65 years, Lavern O. Fuller; her six children, Michael (Susan) Fuller, Gregory (Diane) Fuller, Steven (Linda) Fuller, Cheryl (Russell) Cree, and Marguerite (Jonathan) Sherman, all of Medina, and Christopher (Melissa) Fuller of Columbus, Ohio; a brother, Alton McMahan; brothers-in-law, Robert Fuller, Paul Fuller and Ed Hellwig; and sisters-in-law, Elizabeth “Betty” Menz and Dorothy “Dottie” Hellwig. She was blessed with 15 grandchildren, Matthew Fuller, Timothy Fuller, Andrew Fuller, Amy Herman, Katie Crooks, Mark Fuller, Meghan Fuller, Kayla Rosenbeck, Tyler Evans, Lucan Evans, Nathan Sherman, Hailey Fuller, Brooke Fuller, Nicole Guild and Tiffany Cree; and eight great-grandchildren, all of whom will miss her dearly. Doris is also survived by several nieces and nephews. She will be missed by her aides, Stacey, Felicia and Steph.

She is predeceased by her stepfather, Howard Buchanan; brother, Gene McMahan; brothers-in-law, Merle T. Draper and William Menz; sisters-in law, E. Barbara Draper and Patricia Fuller; and her father-in-law and mother-in-law, E. Lavern Fuller and Dorothy Fuller.

Family and friends may call on Thu., May 16 from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. at Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St., Medina. The Rev. Daniel J. Fawls will celebrate her Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. on Fri., May 17 at Holy Trinity Catholic Parish, St. Mary’s Church, Medina. Burial will be in Mount Pleasant Cemetery.

Donations may be made in her memory to Alzheimer’s Association of Western New York, 6215 Sheridan Drive Suite 100, Buffalo NY 14221; or to East Shelby Volunteer Fire Company, 5021 East Shelby Road, Medina NY 14103.

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

Elizabeth M. “Pete” Donovan, 97, of DeBary, Fla. and formerly of Albion, died May 8 in DeBary. She was the daughter of the late Michael and Julia (Duffy) Donovan. She graduated from Albion High School and Rochester Business Institute, and she retired from the New York State Division of Parole in 1982 after 38 years of service. She was a member of Holy Family Parish – St. Joseph’s Church and the Ladies of Charity.

Ms. Donovan was predeceased by a brother, John Donovan; and sisters, Mary Donovan, Celia Keeler, Agnes Gavigan, Helen Donovan, and J. Charlotte Harrigan.

She is survived by a nephew, Michael Harrigan; nieces, Helen Hutchings, Mary Kuhn, Patricia Keeler (wife of the late James Keeler, nephew), and their families.

Family and friends are invited to attend Pete’s Mass of Christian Burial on Tue., June 4 at 9:30 a.m. at Holy Family Parish – St. Joseph’s Church, Albion. Interment will follow immediately after in St Joseph’s Cemetery on East Avenue in Albion.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Holy Family Parish, 106 S. Main St., Albion NY 14411; or to Hospice of Orleans, P.O. Box 489, Albion NY 14411.

Ms. Donovan’s arrangements were entrusted to Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc. of Albion. To share a special memory of Pete, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Robert J. Rowling, of Albion, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones, on May 9, 2019.

Robert served in the U.S. Army Signal Corps and was a veteran of the Korean War.

He is survived by his loving wife, Jackie; children, Kathy (David) Bloom, Sheila (Jeff) Smith, and James Rowling; stepchildren, Don (Joanne) Hafner, Yvonne Buzard, Joanne (Gary) Lines, and David Hafner; grandchildren, Sonya Rowling, Christina Jackson, Robert Foust, and Yvette (Mark) Barnett; and great-grandchildren, Tyler, Candice, Madeline, Starlin, Avinn, Dylan and Ashlynn.

The family will be holding a private memorial.

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

Martha “Geneva” Morrison, 88, passed away May 6, 2019. She was born May 27, 1930 in Braxton County, W.Va., a daughter of the late Marvin and Ercil Malcomb. Geneva retired from Harrison Radiator in Lockport. Geneva enjoyed spending time with her loving family.

She was predeceased by her husband, Charles, in 2008.

She is survived by her children, Charlie (Donna) Morrison, Kathy (Ron Witkop) Morrison, Loretta (Larry) Hasler, Mary (Willie Dressler) Deemer, and Sue (Rick) Deemer; grandchildren, Steve (Tricia) Smith, Jeff (Kathy) Morrison, Mike (Christa) Deemer, Shaun (Ramona) Heschke, Julie (Jon) Hugaboom, Danielle (Mike) Wright, Randy Deemer, and Stacey (Jayson) Heschke; eight great-grandchildren; and her sister, Imogene Knight.

The family will receive friends on Thu., May 9 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Sherrie Bream Funeral Home, 4521 Main St., Gasport, where her funeral service will follow at 1 p.m. Interment will follow in Acacia Park Cemetery.

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

Maxine Mary Butler (née Schlegel), 74, formerly of Batavia, a resident of East Side Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Warsaw, N.Y., entered her Heavenly rest on May 2, 2019, after being visited by her loving family and friends as she was peacefully passing on. Maxine was born in Medina on Sept. 28, 1944 to the late Alton and Marian Schlegel. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Arthur, in 1997.

Maxine attended Sacred Heart School in Medina (grades 1-8) and graduated from Medina High School in 1961. She then worked as a nurse’s aide at Medina Memorial Hospital for two years. Maxine then graduated from the Catherine McCauley School of Practical Nursing in Batavia, earning her certification in 1964. She worked at St. Jerome’s Hospital in Batavia for ten years as a practical nurse. Maxine graduated from Genesee Community College in 1977, making the President’s List with an Associate of Arts degree in the humanities. In 1979, she graduated summa cum laude from Brockport State College with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and social work. Then, Maxine worked as a probation officer in the Genesee County Probation Department for 10 years, before retiring due to disability.

After her husband’s death, Maxine lived alone for many years on College View Drive in Batavia before becoming a resident of East Side Nursing Home for about seven years until her passing. Maxine was a longtime member of Sacred Heart (Ascension Parish) in Batavia, where she was very active. She served as a Eucharistic Minister and a Lector, taught CCD classes, was a Pre-Cana leader, and was Chairperson of the church picnic booth that both she and her husband worked yearly. Maxine was also a member of St. Anthony’s Parish for many years and, along with her husband, was a member of the Notre Dame Prayer Group.

Maxine enjoyed many things in life. She was an avid Buffalo Bills and New York Yankees fan. She loved reading novels and watching several favorite TV programs, such as “Jeopardy.” Maxine loved music, her favorite artist being Elvis, and enjoyed playing piano. Maxine loved the trips she took with her husband, especially to Salamanca and Lake George, N.Y. At East Side Nursing Home, she enjoyed bingo, crafts, music events, puzzles, games and other activities, along with attending the resident’s council.

Maxine will be dearly missed by all whose lives she touched. She was a wonderful daughter, sister, aunt, godmother, cousin and friend. She had a heart of gold and was generous to a fault. Her religion was the cornerstone of her life. Although she suffered many ailments, Maxine continued to want to live for her loved ones. She fought a courageous health battle for many years. Her loved ones wish to extend a very special thank you to her East Side family for the loving care they provided.

She is survived by her sister, Darlene (Robert) Gerke of Oakfield; nephew and godson, Rob Gerke Jr. of New Jersey; godchildren, Matthew and Virginia Lane of Batavia; many maternal and paternal cousins; several nieces, nephews and family members on her husband’s side; her best friend, Teresa Figlow of Batavia; special friends, Melissa and Aaron Aprile of Buffalo; and her East Side family of nurses, staff and residents.

Maxine’s family will be present from 5 to 7 p.m. on Tue., May 7 at Michael S. Tomaszewski Funeral & Cremation Chapel, LLC,  4120 W. Main St. Road, Batavia NY 14020, where prayers will be recited 10:45 a.m. on Wed., May 8, followed by her Mass of Christian Burial 11 a.m. at Ascension Parish (Sacred Heart). She will be laid to rest alongside her husband in Sacred Heart Cemetery in Medina.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials in her memory be made to the Activities Department at East Side Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, 62 Prospect St., Warsaw NY 14569.

We were all so fortunate to have this sweet angel in our lives. We know she will be with God now, and all her loved ones who went before her. She will no longer suffer, but be in pain-free blessed peace, which she so richly deserves.

The family of Maxine Mary Butler is being cared for by Michael S. Tomaszewski Funeral & Cremation Chapel, 4120 W. Main St. Road, Batavia NY 14020. Please share your words of comfort with Maxine’s family at www.tomaszewskifh.com, or for more information, please call Michael at (585) 343-7500.

Gordon R. Lang, of Lyndonville, passed away on Fri., May 3, 2019 at the age of 85.

Born Oct. 22, 1933, Gordon was a son of the late Leonard and Helen (McGinnis) Lang. He served in the United States Army from 1956 to 1958. Gordon was employed by Eastman Kodak in Rochester for 33 years and retired in 1986. He was a parishioner at Our Lady of the Lake Parish, St. Joseph’s Church in Lyndonville for many years. Gordon enjoyed the outdoors and was a wildlife enthusiast. He grew up playing a variety of different sports and continued throughout his life. Gordon loved spending time with his family at the lake in Lyndonville.

He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Jacqueline (Keymel) Lang; sister, Sharon Yarnell; daughter, Gwynne (Dave) Balcer; five sons, Matthew Lang, John (Kathi) Lang, Mark (Linda) Lang, Jim (Christine) Lang and Richard (Amanda) Lang; niece, Lisa Westby; grandchildren, Evan (Lisa), Brian (Brittany), Andrew (Alicia), Cierra, Ashton, Miranda, Erika, Valerie, JJ, Anthony, Emma, Megan, Shawn (Brooks), Heather, and Amanda; and two great-grandchildren, Abel and Lyla. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his brother, Richard Lang.

A calling hour will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. on Wed., May 8 at Our Lady of the Lake Parish, St. Joseph’s Church, 38 Lake Ave., Lyndonville NY 14098. His Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated immediately following at 11:30 a.m. by the Rev. Bernard Nowak. Military honors will be accorded at the church.

Arrangements are with Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Please share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

Patrick E. Cleary, of Barker, entered into rest on Sun., April 28, 2019 in Niagara Falls, N.Y. He was born in Lockport on April 8, 1948, son of the late Edward and June Baehr Cleary. Pat drove trucks for Drum Oil and was always ready with dog biscuits while delivering fuel. He was an excellent blues guitarist who played with several bands in his younger years. Pat enjoyed fishing, boating, and watching vintage movies. He was a small gentleman farmer, a great brother and friend, and a gentle soul. Once he was your friend, he was your friend for life.

May the blessings of light be upon you, Light without and light within. And in all your comings and goings, May you ever have a kindly greeting From them you meet on the road.

Patrick was the brother of Tim (Sylvia) Cleary, Cathleen Cleary, and the late Margaret Christine (Dick) Gomesky; and the loving uncle of Joshua and Rachel (Lanza Ford) Cleary. He is also survived by a great-niece, Marley Ford; his former wife, Jane Grout Cleary; and dear friends, Tom, Cindy and family, Brian, John, Scot, Windmill Joe, Pat, Bob, Donny, and many more.

Family and friends may call at Rutland-Corwin Funeral Home, Inc., 2670 Main St., Newfane, on Thu., May 9 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Interment will take place at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Niagara SPCA, or to Barker Fire Dept., 1660 Quaker Road, Barker NY 14012. Please visit Rutland-Corwin Funeral Home to send the family a condolence.

Memorial Service Announcement

A memorial service and celebration of life for Warren D. Johnson Jr. will be held on Sat., May 18 at 11:30 a.m. The service will be held at Community Fellowship Church, 3144 Johnson Creek Road, Middleport.

Music will be performed by Community Fellowship Church, and by Warren’s brother, Paul Johnson. A reception and luncheon in the fellowship hall will follow immediately after the service.

In lieu of flowers, please submit any desired donations to Community Fellowship Church.

Craig D. Rauber, 62, of Albion and formerly of Irondequoit, passed away peacefully due to a long illness on May 4, 2019. He was born Dec. 26, 1956 in Rochester to the late Marvin and Shirley Rauber.

Craig enjoyed driving his GMC pickup truck whenever he had the chance. He was a prior member of the High Riders Motorcycle Club. Craig had worked for RG&E since he was 17 years old.

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

Craig is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 33 years, Patricia, whom he married on Sept. 25, 1985. He is also survived by his sister, Diane (Bruce) Haas; Patricia’s children, Christine (Richard) Losey, Nicole (Norman) Klaver, Shawn (Ani) Tindal and Jason (Rachel) Tindal; six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; two cats and three dogs, Gretchen, Coco and Daisy.

There will be no calling hours. A memorial service to celebrate Craig’s life will be held at Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc., 21 West Ave., Albion NY 14411, on Wed., May 8 at 4 p.m.

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

William E. Hilfiker, 84, of Clarendon, died peacefully on May 3, 2019 at his daughter’s home. He was born July 25, 1935 in the Town of Clarendon, a son of the late Alvin and Laura (Gailey) Hilfiker, and he lived in this area all of his life.

Bill owned and operated Alor Farms in Clarendon. He didn’t just raise his family – he raised the neighborhood.

He was predeceased by his loving wife, Eileen, in 2016.

He is survived by his children, Doreen (David) Clark, William (Brenda) Hilfiker Jr., Donna (Randy) Wilcox and Laura (Gerard) Driesel; grandchildren, Jason (Christina) Clark and their children, Cora and Michael, Mary (Burt) Mathes and their children, Emma Rose, Naomi, Lillian Grace, Shania, Leo and Ray, Joseph (Tricia) Clark and their children, Matthew, Zachary, Mici, Tony, David, Cecilia and Kady, Amanda (Maro) Avalon and their son, Vincent, Tammy (Jeffrey) Stevens and their son, Nicholas, Randy J. (Kellie) Wilcox and their children, Cole, Evan, Avery and Kyleigh, Robert Wilcox and his children, Leon and Cyrus, Sally (Geoffrey) Driese-Meyer; Chris (Janelle) Driesel and their sons, Luke and Tyler; sister, Virginia Ahart; as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins and great-great-grandchildren.

There will be no calling hours. Bill’s memorial service will be held Sat., May 11 at 11 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Holley. Burial will be at the convenience of the family in Hillside Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Orleans County Office for the Aging, 14016 Rte. 31 W., Albion NY 14411.

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

Joseph Guy “Joe” Reisman Jr., 57, of Medina, passed away on May 1, 2019 at his home. He was born Sept. 22, 1961 in Medina to Joseph Guy Reisman Sr. and Elizabeth Ann Braun.

Joe had a tremendous love for his family and always enjoyed time with his sons and grandchildren. He enjoyed going snowmobiling, riding ATVs, going to tractor pulls, and watching NASCAR. Joe was known for his booming laugh.

Joe was predeceased by his father on Aug. 16, 2014.

He is survived by his sons, Justin Reisman and Josh (Jamie) Reisman; mother, Elizabeth Reisman; sister, Jolynda (Derk) Elsenheimer; grandchildren, Mathias, Justiah, Rosiliah, Kylie, David, Alex and Aiden; nieces and nephews, David Nicholas Sevenski and Anna Christine Sevenski.

The family will receive friends on Tue., May 7 from 11 to 1 p.m. at Bates, Wallace & Heath Funeral Home, 38 State St., Middleport NY 14105, where Joe’s Celebration of Life service will be held immediately following at 1 p.m.

Memorial contributions in Joe’s name may be made to Hospice of Orleans, P.O. Box 489, Albion NY 14411; or to Niagara Hospice, 4675 Sunset Drive, Lockport NY 14094.

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

Ruth Onnalee (Brooks) Presswood Hutchins, of Columbus, Ohio, passed away Wed., April 24, 2019 at age 108.

Ruth was a missionary with the Christian and Missionary Alliance in Indonesia (formerly Netherlands East Indies) from 1940 to 1946 with her first husband, Rev. W.E. Presswood. They were interned in separate camps by the Japanese during World War II for over three-and-a-half years, Ruth at Kampili, and Ernie at ParePare on the island of Sulawesi. They both survived the concentration camps only to see Ernie die on Feb. 1, 1946, possibly from pneumonia, after two trips to the interior of Borneo to see how the Dyak believers had made it through the war. During their first trip to the interior after the war, their long canoe upset in the rapids – Ruth barely escaping death from drowning by a porter pulling her by her hair, which came out, and another porter grabbing her arm while balancing on the canoe and holding a pig in the other arm. They made it back to Tarakan, their home base at that time, but Ruth became very sick with dengue fever. Ernie went back to the Boelongan District the second time without Ruth, to meet with the indigenous leaders who were to gather at a time and place arranged during the first trip. He returned to Tarakan the day he said he would, but in a coffin. The Dutch government gave him a 21-gun salute at his funeral, which Ruth was too weak to attend. After Rev. Presswood’s death, Ruth returned to the States, where she later married James S. Hutchins, a widower with three teenage children, on Dec. 31, 1947. Her life centered around family, church, and its activities. She authored two books, “No Sacrifice Too Great” in 1993 and “Growing Up With Eight Brothers” in 2006.

She is preceded in death by her second husband, James, on March 3, 1978; and her brothers, Mahlon, Byron (Winnie, deceased), Harold (JL, deceased), Avery (Louise, deceased), Robert (Zilcie, deceased), Gerald (Jean), and Dean (Delores, deceased) Brooks; and stepchildren, Doris (Stanley, deceased) Gaska, Helen (Lee, deceased) Heisler, and Charles (Jane) Hutchins.

Ruth is survived by her daughter, Martha Jean; and her husband, Larry, with whom she lived for 40 years in Columbus, allowing her to see her two grandchildren, Stephanie (Mike) Kuiken and James (Bethany) Moore, grow to adulthood and marry their spouses. She was blessed with 12 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. One brother survives her, Keith (Jane, deceased) Brooks, who lives in Middleport; as well as many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at Albion Faith Alliance Church, 3305 Oak Orchard Road, Albion NY 14411, on Thu., May 9 at 10:30 a.m. Burial will be at Mt. Albion Cemetery.

Memorial gifts may be sent to First Alliance Church, 3750 West Henderson Road, Columbus OH 43220. Those gifts will be forwarded to the Presswood Bible Seminary in Malinau, Borneo, which is a high school-level seminary that trains students to be pastors in their own villages.

Lt. Col. (ret.) Leonard Leon Levandowski, 94, died peacefully in his sleep at the Arizona State Veterans Home, Tucson, Ariz., on Wed., April 24, 2019.

He was born and raised in Albion. He left for the Marine Corps at age 17 and fought in the Pacific Theater during World War II as an aircraft mechanic for the Marine Fighting Squadron 114, giving close air support for the battle of Peleliu. After the war, he transitioned to the Army Air Corps and soloed as a pilot in 1949 at Randolph Field, Texas. He flew rescue missions as a helicopter pilot in the Korean War. He was also instrumental in developing and perfecting the drone photo reconnaissance retrieval program as a “Jolly Green Giant” helicopter pilot before and during the Vietnam War. There were also numerous rescue missions here in the U.S. throughout his career. He was proud to have achieved Command Pilot status (10,000 flight hours logged). He retired from the Air Force in 1970 and served in the Border Patrol in Yuma, Ariz., followed by a 20-year career with the Federal Aviation Administration as an aviation inspector, certifying pilots and investigating aviation accidents. After retiring from the FAA, he provided volunteer assistance as a tax consultant. He retired at age 75. He continued to live life fully and independently up until his passing. He was a caring provider who loved and gave unconditionally.

He is preceded in death by his loving wife, Louise Marie (Silkowski); son, Gary Edward; father, Adam; mother, Gertrude; sister, Mary Lou (McGaffic); and brother, Archie.

He is survived in life by his sister, Jean Jozwiak; his sons, Steven (Connie) and Richard (Marilyn); daughter, Peggy Walker; and son, Christopher (Debra Walker); grandchildren, Jessica (Ben) DelaGarza, Amanda (Orlando) Rascon, Kelly (Ben) Montoya, Kristin Levandowski, Sarah (Sam) Maggio, and Adam (Ashley) Levandowski; nine great-grandchildren; and he was looking forward to meeting his new great-granddaughter due in June.

He will be laid to rest alongside his wife and son in Medina. The service will be announced at a future date.

We love you, miss you, and look forward to seeing you again.