Obituaries

ALBION – Darius W. Moyer, age 67, passed away unexpectedly at his home on October 27, 2024. He was born September 1, 1957 in Albion to the late Leroy and Phyllis (McClellan) Moyer.

Darius worked for the Holley CSD for over 23 years before he retired. He was a jack of all trades and was always tinkering in his garage. Darius would give the shirt off his back for anyone in need and was an extremely caring man. He was very handy with everything and if he didn’t know how to fix it, he was sure to find a way. Darius also liked to have a good time playing jokes on family members or startling them at opportune moments. He enjoyed spending time with “Uncle Junior” having their evening coffee, and especially time with his family.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his siblings, Dennis, Charlie, John, Lorraine, Leroy and Kenneth.

Darius is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 46 years, Terri, his children, Sarah (Jason) Hughes, Elizabeth (Fiancé Amond Riley) Moyer, Jeremy (Anne Halstead) Moyer, grandchildren, Nicholas (Fiancé Madison Gilbert), Galissa, Nathan, Trinity (Fiancé Dakota Curtis), Brionnah, Cierra, Josie, Addison, great granddaughter Lilliana, and soon to be Rosie, siblings, Delores Kerstetter, Merlin (Laurie) Moyer, Roxanne Moyer, Denise (Duane) Phillips, Tammy Bissanti, Darrell Moyer, Darla Moyer as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Darius’ family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 21 West Ave. Albion, NY 14411 on Friday November 1st from 11:00-1:00pm where his Celebration of Life Service will be held at 1:00pm.

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

LYNDONVILLE – Kelly Lee Daigler (47) of Lyndonville passed away on Saturday, October 26th, surrounded by family and loved ones.

She was born on October 17th, 1977, in Williamsville, N.Y. to Paul and Paulette (Raisch) Daigler. Kelly and her family moved to Lyndonville in 1993, where she graduated from high school. Kelly loved her family and was most proud of her beautiful children, Gaven (22) and Kayli (18). She adored and loved spending time with them. Kelly is loved by her sister Christine (Natalie) Rauch and brother Todd; her nieces and nephews, Erin, Alex, Abi, Peyton, Isaac, Avery, and James; many aunts, uncles, and cousins. She enjoyed spending time at her family’s home on the lake, loving her dogs, listening to music, sitting at a bonfire, and sharing time with friends were some of her favorite things to do.

Kelly worked in health care, at local nursing homes and private home care within Orleans County for most of her adult life. She had a vibrant personality and was always ready and willing to lend a hand when it was needed. Kelly was dedicated to her patients with such a sweet and genuine personality, treating them like her own family.

Relatives and friends may attend a memorial service at 12 Noon on Saturday, November 9^th, 2024 at the Albion First Baptist Church, 30 W. Park St. Albion, NY 14411. Burial will be private for the family.

Arrangements where entrusted to the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 112 N. Main St. Lyndonville, NY 14098.

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

SPENCERPORT – Ronald “Tom” Jones passed away peacefully on October 26, 2024. He was born June 28, 1946 in Little Falls, NY to the late Ronald and Arlene (Spingler) Jones.

Tom served in the US Navy during the Vietnam War as a combat photographer before returning home and working for Eastman Kodak. He spent over 30 years working at Eastman Kodak before he retired in 2000.

Tom loved to go hunting on their property in Hammondsport and had plenty of deer to show for his time in the woods. He also enjoyed golfing, softball and anything that was athletic related. Traveling all over the world with his wife Elaine was something they both enjoyed doing together.

Tom is survived by his wife, Elaine; children, Thomas (Laura) Jones and Michelle (Mark) Hatfield; grandchildren, Joshua (fiancé Thais) Hatfield, Megan Hatfield, Sean Jones and Rachel Jones; and sister, Cheryl (Charles) Brockett.

Tom’s family will receive friends at Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 16650 State Route 31 Holley, NY 14470 on Saturday, November 23rd from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. where his Celebration of Life Service will follow at 1 p.m.

Memorial contributions in his name may be made Hildebrandt Hospice, Alzheimer’s Association, or a charity of the donor’s choice.

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

KENDALL – Mary L. Reis, age 74, passed away October 25, 2024. She was born March 22, 1950 in Brockport to the late Frank and Esther (Dusett) Reis.

Mary worked as a nurse at various healthcare facilities for more than 40 years in the local area. She enjoyed doing ceramics, reading books of all genres, especially Westerns, Romance and ones related to Space.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her siblings, John, Richard and Cora.

Mary is survived by her siblings, Jeannette Reis, Nora Reis, William “Bill” (Sheryl) Reis and Frank “Tony” Reis III; nieces and nephews, Derek, Angela, Wayne, Stephanie, Jennifer and James.

Mary’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 16650 State Route 31, in Holley, NY 14470 on Tuesday, Nov. 5, from 2 to 4 p.m.

Memorial contributions in Mary’s name may be made to PAWS 3371 Gaines Basin Rd. Albion, NY 14411.

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

MEDINA – It is with great sadness that we announce that Wayne Matthew Van Vleet, Esq. of Medina, N.Y, and former resident of Liberty, NY, passed away at the age of 57 at his home in Medina, N.Y on October 9, 2024.

Wayne was born on April 23, 1967, in Middletown NY, the son of Martin George Van Vleet and Shirley Miller Van Vleet.

He was a 1989 graduate from Cornell University’s School of Industrial Labor Relations and obtained his Juris Doctor (JD) from the University of Buffalo, School of Law.  He was employed for the past 32 years as General Counsel and Executive Director of Personnel Human Resources and Labor Relations at Orleans/Niagara BOCES. He was a past recipient of the Orleans/Niagara BOCES Administrator of the Year and the Western New York’s Educational Service Council’s Administrator of the Year awards.

Wayne was known for his integrity and honesty, he will be fondly remembered for his kindness, empathy, and his passion for working in the best interest of the students and staff across Orleans and Niagara Counties.

Wayne had strong values and was respected by everyone who worked with him. He enjoyed mentoring others as well as teaching courses at Niagara University. Wayne had a quick wit and an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. There was nothing he liked more than to discuss and debate politics, novels, and current events. Wayne enjoyed spending his free time watching sports, especially enjoying NCAA Men’s Division I Basketball, and attending March Madness games. He was also an avid animal lover, enjoying the company of several family dogs would offer to cat sit for friends.

Wayne is survived by his mother, Shirley Miller Wallach of Phoenix, AZ; a brother, Scott Van Vleet of Goodyear, AZ; sisters, Pamela Sedlak (Scott) of Riverview, FL and Kelly Cavaliere (Gregg) of Katonah, NY; along with numerous other relatives.

Family and friends can gather on Saturday, November 2, 2024, from 2 to 3 p.m. at Colonial Ramsay Funeral Home, 275 S. Main St, Liberty New York, 12754. The service will be held at the funeral home at 3 p.m. Burial will follow at the Laurel Hill Cemetery, White Sulphur Springs, New York. A  Celebration of his Life will be held locally (Medina) at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Wayne M. Van Vleet, Esq. Scholarship Fund c/o the Orleans/Niagara BOCES, 4232 Shelby Basin Rd. Medina, New York, 14103.

WATERPORT – Ruth Bernard of Waterport left this earth peacefully at home in the early hours of October 18. She was in her 99th year. Born in Stuttgart, Germany, Ruth became a child refugee in England when WWII broke out. Her family eventually reunited in New York City. She married there and in the 1960’s moved to Toronto where she resided for many years before retiring to the peaceful countryside of western New York.

Ruth was a creative spirit who had a particular interest in movement and dance therapy. She was a charter member of the American Dance Therapy Association. She was the founder and director of the Center of Movement in Toronto. She wrote poetry avidly and has several published volumes to her name. Her poems also appeared regularly in Verse Afire, a publication of the Ontario Poetry Society. In 2006 she published her selected memoirs, Dances of Remembrance.

Ruth was known as a person of exceptional generosity. She loved preparing and sharing food with friends and family. She lived according to the Biblical principle of “Welcoming the Stranger” and was a friend and mentor to people of manybackgrounds. She was one of the founding members of World Life Institute, a non-denominational non-profit organization with branches in Toronto and New York State. She was a spiritual seeker all her life, firmly planted in the monotheistic tradition.

Ruth is survived by her daughter Jacqueline Bernard of Waterport, and her brother Bernard Feldman of Hollywood, Florida, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins, and a large spiritual family. Many thanks go out to the wonderful team of home health aides for their exemplary care of Ruth during the last few years.

Ruth was interred in Waterport at the Town of Carlton Cemetery, according to tradition. Donations may be made to one of the following organizations in memory of Ruth Bernard: World Life Institute at https://www.worldlife.institute/donate, HIAS refugee support organization at https://act.hias.org/page/53286/donate/1or to Roswell Park Cancer Institute at https://www.roswellpark.org/

“The Lord is my God; the Lord is One.” Ruth’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Cooper Funeral Home 215 W. Center St. Medina, NY.

To share a special memory of Ruth, visit www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

ALBION – Richard G. “Dick” Standish, age 89, died October 23, 2024 in United Memorial Medical Center.  He was born June 11, 1935 in Albion and was a life-long resident of this area.

Dick was a United States Navy Veteran of the Korean War and a member of the VFW.  He often helped out at the Knowlesville Fellowship Hall, and enjoyed camping, playing Euchre, and going to Florida.  Dick was also a classic car enthusiast but more than anything, he was a devoted family man who cherished time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren.  Mr. Standish was predeceased by a daughter: Sherryl, a grandson: Brandon, and two sisters: Eleanor “Mickey” Rocco, and Marilynn LeCroix.

He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years Betty Lou, his children: Leonard Standish of Albion, Tammorah (David) Neal of Albion, Mark (Carrie) Standish of Albion, Derrick (Jan) Standish of Barre, 8 grandchildren, as well as several great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 21 West Avenue-ALBION, TUESDAY 10/29 from 1-4 pm where his Funeral Service will be held immediately following visitation at 4pm.  Military Honors will take place following the service at the Funeral Home.  In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Batavia VA Medical Center Rehabilitation Unit, 222 Richmond Ave., Batavia, NY, 14020.  To share a special memory of Dick, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com

David Gonzalez, age 60, passed away on Saturday, October 12, 2024. He was born on October 4, 1964 in Jamaica, NY.

He is predeceased by his loving mother Esther Ruperto. He is survived by his father Aurelio Gonzalez, survived by the love of his son, Slade (Sladee) Gonzalez, siblings Richard (Jacqueline) Gonzalez, Daniel (Tara) Gonzalez and several nieces and nephews.

David proudly served in the US Navy as an aviation structural mechanic(s), aviation warfare specialist, naval air crewman, he was also a crew chief and rescue swimmer aboard the CH-46 Sea Knight and SH-3 Sea King helicopter(s). He toured across the globe on 4 long deployments where he made some of his lifelong friends and made unforgettable memories. He enjoyed woodworking, working on small engines and growing his knowledge of the Bible and Jesus.

Romans 8:38-39 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which in Christ Jesus our Lord.

HOLLEY – Nancy A. Lavender passed away on October 23, 2024 at Kirkhaven in Rochester. She was born on May 17, 1931, in Clifton, NY to the late Merle and Rena (Sovereign) Allen. She moved to Clarendon in 1946, and had lived Holley most of her life.

She was employed at Merrill Grinnell Funeral Home in Holley where she was a secretary and receptionist for over 24 years.

In addition to her parents, Nancy was predeceased by her husband of 63 years, Robert W. Lavender and her sisters, Sylvia Lavender and Jean Cutt.

She was survived by her daughter, Janice Lavender; Predeceased by, her son in law: Raymond Bilohlavek Sr.; her grandchildren, Annette and Ray Bilohlavek, Michael (Lisa) Lavender and Matthew Bilohlavek, great grandchildren: William, Emma, Gabriella, Audriana, and Riley as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

There will be no calling hours.  A Memorial Service will be held at a later date. Nancy’s interment will be held privately at the convenience of the family in Hillside Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Holley Fire Department.

Nancy’s arrangements were entrusted to Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home in Holley. To share a special memory of Nancy, please visitwww.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com

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.