Obituaries

LYNDONVILLE –Rodney J. “Hot Rod” Whiting, 72, of Lyndonville, NY, passed away peacefully with his loving family at his side on Friday, January 3, 2025, at Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital.

He was born on July 31, 1952, in Batavia, NY, the son of the late Lauren and Shirley (Blackstone) Whiting.

On May 29, 1976, Rodney married the former LuAnne Bow, and together, they raised two children. He retired as a Maintenance Foreman at Whiting Door Manufacturing in Akron, NY. Rodney enjoyed being outdoors, especially while hunting, riding his Harley, and driving his 1952 Chevy 3100 Pickup. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.

Rodney is survived by his wife of 48 years, LuAnne; daughter, Kelly Rinker of Lyndonville; son, Mathew (Katie) Whiting of Holley, NY; and six grandchildren, Kara, Kelton, Brayden, Liam, Nathan, and Elyse. He also has siblings Theo and Michael Abraham, Phyllis Whiting, Christine Tee, Nancy and Tim Girard, Steve and Delia Tee, and Alice Marie and John Worrall.

Besides his parents, Rodney is predeceased by two brothers, Bob and Jim.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at the White Birch Golf Course, 1515 N. Lyndonville Rd. Lyndonville, NY 14098. Burial will be private for the family.

Memorials may be made in his name at the Ronald McDonald House Charites of Rochester, 333 Westmoreland Drive, Rochester, NY 14620.

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

BATAVIA – Lou A. Fuller, passed away on December 21, 2024, at the age of 81. Born on June 13, 1943, in Batavia, NY, to Lloyd and Ruth Page, she and five other siblings were raised in Barker NY where she graduated high school.

She moved to Medina NY where she met the love of her life, Norman Fuller, where they raised their own family. Lou spent her later years living in Tucson, AZ.

Lou enjoyed a successful career as an employee at Fisher Price, where she was the first female fork truck driver in the plant. She was a proud member of the Ladies Auxiliary of Shelby Volunteer Fire Company. She was a competitive skeet shooter and bowled for the Ladies Auxiliary. She had a passion for travel and was an avid reader. She was known for her positive outlook on life, often saying, “it is what it is,” a motto that reflected her resilient spirit.

She joins her beloved husband, Norman Fuller, and her son, Erin Fuller. She leaves behind her eldest son Eric Fuller along with his wife, Anna Fuller. Lou was also a proud grandmother to her granddaughter, Elizabeth Fuller, and grandsons, Jacob and Zachary Fuller, who cherished the time spent with her.

Lou’s warmth, humor, and zest for life will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

A memorial service will be held when her family returns her to NY in the spring/summertime.

ALBION – Barbara Jean Putnam Gray died on January 4th at Sunsent Nursing Home after a progressive decline in her health over several months.  She was born  March 1, 1950 in Albion, NY.

She graduated from Albion Central School in 1968.  She later went to Batavia Nursing School where she became an LPN.  She married Darrel “Joe” Gray in 1974 and she became a housewife raising their son Darrel.

Later divorced, she worked for David Kast Farms as an apple inspector. She also worked for Lake Ontario Fruit Inc. where she worked until she retired. She enjoyed caring for her many cats and was an avid gardener. She was a member of RADS (Rochester Area Daylily Society) as well as Albion NY Rocks and Carlton NY Rocks.

She enjoyed painting rocks to spread messages of kindness. One of her biggest passions was her love and support of her favorite football team, the Buffalo Bills. Barb had a love of football that she passed down to her son who went on to Coach Football  and currently coaches at Adirondack Central School. She was a big fan of the Wildcats.

She is survived by her son Darrel and daughter-in-law Marion as well as her two grandchildren Nora and Mitchell Gray all of West Leyden, sister Patti Mitchell, nephew Jimmi Lee Kent NY and brothers Duane Putnam Kent NY and Bill (Kim) Putnam  of Freezeproof Fl as well as her Aunt Jean Shervin. Plus nieces and nephews and many cousins and dear friends. She is predeceased by her parents Guy and Eleanor Forder Putnam of Kent NY.

A private family ceremony will be held in the spring near her favorite location on Lake Ontario.  In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation in her memory to the Adirondack Wildcats Booster Club 110 Ford Street Boonville NY 13309. Or to your favorite animal shelter of choice.

MEDINA – Sylvia Jean Riviere, of Medina, NY went to be with her Lord and Savior on Tuesday, December 31, 2024. She passed away at home surrounded by her loving family.

Born February 10, 1940 in Medina, she was a daughter to the late Ernest and Gladys (Fredericks) Meyer. Growing up on her family’s farm on Culvert Road, Sylvia possessed a strong work ethic at a young age. This is also where she began her lifelong love for horses. For many years, Sylvia owned and operated the Country Lane Cake & Wedding Shop in Medina. Sylvia was a person with a strong will and a strong faith. She was an active member of Oak Orchard Assembly of God Church in Medina. She dedicated herself for many years volunteering for the Medina Area Association of Churches (MAAC), where she ran the Christmas program up until recent years.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by six siblings, Irene Daball, Ernestine Wetzel, Shirley Stachewicz, Irving Meyer and Henry “Hank” Meyer and Bernice Young.

Sylvia is survived by her beloved husband of 54 years, David Riviere; four children, Harold (Deborah) Jacobson, Debi (Paul) McCanna, Patricia (Doug Welker) Kepner and Allan Kepner; three stepchildren, Laurie (Lee) Horton, Kenneth Riviere and David (Tanya) Riviere, Jr.; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 7 from 4-7PM at the Oak Orchard Assembly of God, 12111 Ridge Rd., Medina, NY 14103. Her memorial service will also be held at the church the following morning, Wednesday, Jan. 8 at 11AM. Interment will be in Bates Road Cemetery at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to MAAC, 536 Orient St., Medina, NY 14103 or to the Oak Orchard Assembly of God (address above). Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

NORTH TONAWANDA – Linda J. Kraus, age 76, died January 1, 2025 in Millard Suburban Nursing Home following a long illness.  She was born November 26, 1948 in North Tonawanda to John and Martha (Zielinski) Tierney and was a life-long resident of this area.

Linda was the oldest of three sisters and was often tasked with watching out for their welfare and keeping them occupied.  She loved to bake and enjoyed going out for Friday night Fish-Frys.  Linda was also a lover of animals, especially dogs.  Mrs. Kraus was predeceased by her husband Harold in 2005.

She is survived by her sisters: Carol (John) Martinez of North Tonawanda, Deborah (Thomas) Young of North Tonawanda, her nieces and nephews: Christine Jenkins, Stephen (Katie) Musielak, Charles Young, Jacqueline Young as well as several great nieces and nephews.

There will be no calling hours.  Family and friends are invited to attend her Graveside Service in Cold Springs Cemetery-Lockport, MONDAY January 6th beginning at 10:30am.  In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to: The ASPCA, 424 E. 92nd St., New York, NY, 10128-6804.  Linda’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Sherrie Bream Funeral Home of Gasport.  To share a special memory of Linda, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com

HOLLEY – Gary McMullen passed away on December 29, 2024 at the age of 69. Gary was predeceased by his parents Lucille and Harold McMullen also his sister Nancy.

Gary was a member of St. Mary’s Church in Holley, NY. Gary was also a carpenter for over 30 years. Gary was also big into softball as a player and umpire and very knowledgeable of the game. Gary was also a lifetime fan of the N.Y. Yankees.

Gary is survived by his aunt Virginia, and many cousins.

Services will be held in the spring.

Any memorials/donations may be made to PAWS 3371 Gaines Basin Road Albion N.Y. 14411.

Gary loved his dogs.

KNOWLESVILLE – Roxanne M. “Rocky” Culmo, of Knowlesville, NY passed away with her loving family by her side on the morning of New Years Day, January 1, 2025.

Born December 2, 1935 in Medina, she was one of eleven children born to the late Fred J. and Ada A. (Johnson) Miller and Velma M. (Haviland) Miller. Mrs. Culmo was a graduate of Albion High School Class of 1953. During her early years she worked for Thomas J. Lipton Co. On June 27, 1959 she married the late Joseph M. Culmo. A homemaker for many years, Mrs. Culmo left Lipton’s to raise her family and resided in Knowlesville most of her life. In later years she worked at the post office in Knowlesville. Affectionately known as “Mrs. C.” to many, she was a welcoming presence to many in her neighborhood. Mrs. Culmo was an active and faithful member of the Knowlesville United Methodist Church and belonged to the United Methodist Women. She enjoyed bowling in various local leagues and attending all of her children and grandchildren’s events, sporting and otherwise. A true matriarch of her family, Mrs. Culmo’s main focus in life was loving, caring and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her beloved husband, Joseph on October 25, 2017; and eight siblings, Robert, Francis, Ronald and Gordon Miller, RuthAnn Davis, Linda Miller, Darlene Rossi and Sharon Otare.

Left to cherish her memory are her three children, Michael (Janene) Culmo, Daniel Culmo and Cheryl (Jerry) Dona; eight grandchildren, Michael (Laura) Culmo II, Trevor Dona (Melissa Snider), Justin (Jessica) Culmo, Evan Dona (Elise Franke), Brad Dona, Tyler Culmo (Sabrina Sarkis), Ashley Culmo and Kathy Sugrue; eight great-grandchildren, Ryann Culmo, Brooklynn Culmo, Benjamin Lohnes, Alexandria Culmo, Rayna Donovan, Elizabeth Lohnes, Ethan Dona and Miles Culmo; two brothers, Edward Miller and Lyle (Nancy) Miller; two sisters in-law, Debbie Miller and Freda Culmo; and many nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held on Monday, Jan. 6 from 4-7PM at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Her funeral will also be held at the funeral home the following morning, Tuesday, Jan 7 at 10AM. Interment will be in Mt. Albion Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations would be appreciated to the Parkinson’s Foundation at www.parkinson.org. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

HARTLAND – Gene C. Brayley passed away peacefully under hospice care on December 29, 2024.

Beloved husband of the late Helen “Dusty” Brayley. Loving father of Jaye (William) Gerling of Lyndonville and the late Neil Eugene Brayley, who predeceased him in 1965. Cherished grandfather of David (Nikki) Gerling, Sue Gerling, and James (Leiah) Gerling. Proud great-grandfather of Nikolas, Lydia, Aurora, Courtney, Logan, William, Aiden, and Eliana. Brother of the late Nancy Corwin and dear friend of the late Agnes Hinkley.

Gene honorably served in the U.S. Navy from 1947 to 1968. A devoted member of Hartland Methodist Church and the Hartland Men’s Club, Gene also held leadership roles in numerous organizations. He was a Past Master of Hartland Lodge #218 and a member of Gasport Lodge #787. Gene also served as the Past Commander of the American Legion and Adjutant of Gasport Memorial Post #1253. Additionally, he was a member of the VFW, Fleet Reserve Association, USS Philippine Sea Association, and VR-21 Association. Gene was a dedicated volunteer for Niagara Hospice, an organization close to his heart.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Gasport American Legion Post 1253 c/o Clifford Grant, 3251 Hosmer Rd. Gasport, NY 14067, to Hartland Corners Methodist Church, 8019 Ridge Road, Gasport, NY 14067, or to Niagara Hospice, 4675 Sunset Drive, Lockport, NY 14094. Gene’s life was marked by service, devotion, and a love for his family, faith, and community. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Visitation will be held at Lange Funeral Home, Inc., located at 186 East Avenue, Lockport, on Wednesday, January 8th, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home on January 9th, beginning at 10 a.m. Interment to follow at Hartland Central Cemetery.

HOLLEY –  Arthur G. Gilman, age 79, passed away December 26, 2024. Art was born April 28, 1945, in Rochester, NY, the son of the late George and Clara (Seger) Gilman.

Art was a member of St. Mary’s Church in Holley and a farmer his whole life. He loved spending time at the public market where he was always outgoing and friendly to people, he met. Art was a lifelong fan of old steam powered equipment and frequented steam shows and auctions in his younger days.

Arthur was predeceased by his loving wife of 39 years, Gloria, his brother Fred, Sister Jo, son Richard, daughter-in-law Joanne, and grandsons Richard and Matthew. He is survived by his children Timothy Gilman, Arthur Gilman, Peter (Rose) Gilman, John (Erin Gieder) Bennet, Paulette (Pam) Stockwell, daughter-in-law Christine Gilman; and several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Arthur’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes 16650 State Route 31, Holley on Friday January 10th, from 4:00pm-6:00pm. Art’s Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Mary’s Church on Saturday 11:00am at St. Mary’s Church Holley.  His burial will be at Parma Union Cemetery.   Memorials may be made to St. Mary’s Church, 9 S. Main St., Holley NY 14470 or P.A.W.S. 3371 Gaines Basin Rd., Albion NY 14411.

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

KENDALL – Walter C. Steffen, Jr., age 89, passed away December 28, 2024, at Elderwood of Lakeside at Brockport surrounded by his loving family.

He was born January 17, 1935, in Albion, a son of the late Walter C. Sr. and Ella (Curtis) Steffen and had lived in this area all of his life.

Walt was a member of the Concordia Lutheran Church, the Kendall Fire Department and was on the Town of Kendall Planning Board for over 40 years. He was the 3rd generation to own and operate Steffen’s Farm in Kendall, which his grandfather started in 1908. He enjoyed his John Deere tractor and going to the casino. He was known for his kindness and opened his home to anyone, especially children, who needed a place to stay. Walt truly was a family man who loved spending time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his children Debbie Steffen, Barbara Adolph, David and Dennis Steffen; grandson Jake Adolph; and sisters Alice Steffen Schepler and Mary Steffen Herring.

Walt is survived by his loving wife of 72 years, Miriam “Dolly”; his children Dan Steffen, Doug (Rhonda) Steffen, Patti (Taras) Salamanca, Dale (Kathy) Steffen, Connie (Saul) Harrison and Susie (Ron) Kyle; 22 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; many great-great-grandchildren; daughter-in-law Halia as well as many in-laws, nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, 16650 State Rte. 31 in Holley, on Friday January 3rd from 2 to 5 p.m. His funeral service will be Saturday at the Concordia Lutheran Church at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Memorials may be made to the Kendall Fire Department, 1879 Kendall Rd., Kendall NY 14476, or to the Concordia Lutheran Church, 1769 Kendall Rd., Kendall NY 14476.

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

LYNDONVILLE – Dean E. Boring, 88, of Lyndonville, NY, entered into rest on Thursday, December 26, 2024, at home, with his loving family at his side.

Born on June 16, 1937, in Armagh, PA, he was the son of the late Ephraim and Lena Boring.

Dean had a love of country music, which he liked to play on his guitar. He also liked being outdoors while working on his garden, hunting and fishing. Dean enjoyed playing cards and attending family reunions.

Dean is survived by his sons, Ken, Steve (Kristal), David (Kelly) and Mike (Tracy); a sister, Irene Penrose; seven grandchildren; many great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Besides his parents, Dean is predeceased by his wife, Jeanette Thaine Boring.

There are no calling hours. A graveside service will be held at Lynhaven Cemetery in the spring, to be announced at a later date.

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

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

ALBION – Marsha Ann Soto-Thomas, 54, passed away December 23, 2024, surrounded by her loving family at Strong Memorial Hospital following a long illness.

Marsha was born November 18, 1970, in Rochester and had lived in Albion most of her life.

Marsha was an amazing mother who dedicated her life to children by owning and operating Land Before Time Day Care.  Marsha was a bright light in the community. Her greatest joy in life was watching her three children grow up.

She was predeceased by her husband, Rupertito Soto.

Marsha is survived by her children, Davian Soto, Eugenia Soto and Quinton Soto; parents, Ann and Henry Thomas; brothers, Kenneth, Timothy, Richard and Alan (Sharon); special dog Yoda, nieces, nephews, cousins.

A celebration of Marsha’s life will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the family at a GoFundMe (click here).

Marsha’s arrangements have been entrusted to Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Albion.

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

MEDINA – John Burton Martin, of Medina, NY walked into eternity in the snowy, early morning of December 24, 2024. John had a strong faith in Jesus Christ and is now resting in His care; “absent from the body…present with the Lord.” 2 Corinthians 5:8.

John (a.k.a. “Zilch Fletcher”) was a much-loved husband, father, grandfather “Pop Pop” and dear friend to many. He was born in Watertown, NY on April 30, 1945 to Austin “Ozzie” and Ethelwyn “Pat” Martin of Medina, NY.

John is survived by his wife Diana, his son Shane A. Martin (Mara) of Nashville, TN, his daughters Jessica A. Kewley (Nate) of Wellsville, NY, Katy R. Martin of Rochester, NY, and grandsons Landon and Max Kewley of Wellsville, NY. He leaves behind many beloved friends and family who loved his warm smile and quirky sense of humor.

While in this life, his world was filled with music, love, and laughter as he entertained people in Nashville and throughout Western New York. He could often be heard on the front porch singing, reading a biography, or spending time with family and friends around the dinner table. He had a heart for God, a joy for life, and love for his family.

Family and friends will be received on Friday, Jan. 3 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center Street, Medina. A memorial service will be held Saturday, Jan. 4 at 11 a.m. at the Yates Baptist Church, 11365 E. Yates Center Rd., Lyndonville, NY 14098.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to Yates Baptist Church (address above) or Renew the Arts (980 Riverside Rd. Sugar Hill, GA 30518). Please share condolences and memories at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

BATAVIA – Raymond Francis Zuczuski, age 83.

Raymond passed peacefully on December 20, 2024.

The devoted husband and father was predeceased by his first wife, Pauline, and sister Annette Heschke and is survived by wife Joan Zuczuski, daughters, Claudia Zuczuski and Dianne Jargowsky, sister, Rosanne Wisnock and his two grandchildren, Gabriel and Mara Vennesland and several nieces and nephews.

Born on May 6, 1941, Raymond grew up in Medina, New York and moved to Batavia, New York and worked for Niagara Mohawk for 37 years as a lineman and traveling operator. He was one of the first hot air balloon pilots in the area and he organized multiple balloon rallies, drawing large crowds to a new sport. He served in the US Army and US Navy Reserves in a Seabee Unit.

There are no prior calling hours. Raymond’s Mass of Christian Burial will be announced when it is determined. He will be laid to rest in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Medina.

Raymond’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Bates, Wallace & Heath Funeral Home of Middleport, NY.

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

LOCKPORT – Patricia A. Shepard, age 83, died December 23, 2024 in Niagara Hospice Residence surrounded by her family.  She was born November 7, 1941 in Lockport to Carl and Isadore (Siemendorf) Shorten and was a life-long resident of this area.

Pat worked for several years as a bus aide for the Barker School District.  She was a member of the Faith United Methodist Church in Barker, and The Avon Study Club.  She loved to read, garden, rug-hook and enjoyed her flower gardens.  Pat loved getting together and doing “silly sister stuff” which was indicative of the great love she had for her family.  Family was everything to her! Mrs. Shepard was predeceased by her husband Leo Shepard Jr.

She is survived by her children: Joseph (Brenda) Shepard of Springville, Andrew Shepard of Barker, Michael (Kathy) Shepard of Gasport, Gerald (Deborah) Shepard of Gasport, 14 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren, her sisters: Barbara Albone of Middleport, Bonnie (Robert) Isele of Lockport, Donna Waild of Middleport, Darlene (Lewis) Wagner of WV, as well as several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends at the Sherrie Bream Funeral Home-Gasport, SUNDAY 12/29, from 5-8pm.  Family and friends are invited to attend Pat’s Funeral Service MONDAY 12/30 at 11am in Faith United Methodist Church, 1449 Quaker Rd., Barker, NY, 14012.  Interment will follow immediately after in Hartland Central Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Faith United Methodist Church at the address listed.

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

BATAVIA – Gerald M. Wade “Jerry”, 84 of Batavia, passed away peacefully on Monday (December 23, 2024) at his residence under the loving care of his family.

He was born May 1, 1940, a son of the late Myron and Eva Wade.

Jerry was a veteran of the U.S. Army, having served his country from 1958-1961. He was an Accounting Clerk for the Sears Buffalo Credit Central prior to his retirement. He was a member of the Cornerstone Church and for many years served as the church historian. He was a fan of the Buffalo Bills and enjoyed participating in activities with fellow veterans.

Survivors include his children, Thomas (Noralba) Wade of Colorado, Christina Wade Jones of Texas and Ted (Heidi) Wade of Colorado. Grandchildren, Noah Wade, Justin Wade, Alexandra Jones, Victoria (Ryan) Jones and Jenna Grier. Sister, Lorraine Nettnin.

He was predeceased by his wives, Phyllis Wade and Edith Wade.

Family and friends may call on Monday (Dec. 30) from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Cornerstone Church, 2583 Main St, East Pembroke, NY, where a funeral service and military honors will be held at 1pm. Burial will be North Pembroke Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a Veteran organization of your choice.

Arrangements were entrusted to the C.B. Beach & Son Mortuary, Inc., 4 Main Street, Corfu, NY 14036.

LANCASTER – Carol G. Reckahn, age 83, of Lancaster, passed away on Friday, December 20, 2024 at Lancaster General Hospital (LGH).

Born in Medina, New York, she was the daughter of the late Robert and Mildred (Cave) Grout.

A proud nurse by profession, Carol earned a Bachelor’s Degree as a registered nurse from Genesee School of Nursing and spent many rewarding years serving in the healthcare industry, most notably at LGH. Her commitment to nursing was further exemplified by her service in the United States Army Reserves, where she proudly served as a nurse in the 365th Evacuation Hospital in Niagara Falls, NY.

Carol cherished her family above all else, and her love for them was profound.

She is survived by her devoted son, Michael D.McGowan (husband of Marion) of Pittsburgh; her grandchildren: Amanda Elizabeth McGowan-Farmer (wife of Leigh) and Michael Bruce McGowan (husband of Sarah); 1 great-grandchild: Jaxon Farmer; 2 step children: Catherine Buzanski and Bruce Buzanski, Jr.; 2 step grandchildren: Cynthia Buzanski and Chance Buzanski; one sister: Shirley Peters as well as several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her to her parents, Carol is preceded in death by her husband, Bruce Reckahn as well as one sister, Donna Hoey.

Carol will be laid to rest at North Syracuse Cemetery, North Syracuse New York in a private ceremony.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, donate.cancer.org. Online condolences may be made at www.SnyderFuneralHome.com.

KENT- Kathleen (Kathy) Strong, 69, of Kent, NY passed away peacefully at Mt. Carmel House in Hilton, NY, surrounded by the love of her family.

Kathy was born on June 3, 1955, in Wisconsin and spent her adult life in Texas and New York. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend whose life was defined by compassion and service to others.

As a registered nurse, Kathy dedicated her career to caring for patients in a variety of healthcare settings. She found her greatest fulfillment in home healthcare, where she provided comfort, care, and love to elderly patients. Her kindness, generosity, and unwavering support left an indelible mark on everyone she met.

Kathy had a deep love for animals and provided a warm, loving home to many pets over the years. She enjoyed gardening, taking walks with her pets, visiting her daughters and grandchildren, reading, attending church, arts and crafts, spending time with friends, and traveling to new places.

Kathy was predeceased by her beloved son, Nathaniel Strong; her mother, Helen Spencer; her sister, Valerie Spencer-Petit; her nephew, Matthew Petit; and her in-laws, Malcolm and Ann Strong.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 46 years, Daniel Strong; her loving daughters and sons-in-law, Jennifer and Val Andrei, Stephanie and Wayne Krull, and Andrea and Mike Porte; her cherished grandchildren; as well as many brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and friends.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, 16650 State Route 31 Holley, Friday December 27th 4:00pm-7:00pm.  Her Mass of Christian Burial will be on Saturday at 10:00am at St. Mark’s Church in Kendall.  Burial will be in West Kendall/Beechwood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Kathy’s memory to Mt. Carmel House in Hilton, NY, Mt. Carmel House, 288 Frisbee Hill Road, Hilton, NY 14468, (585) 366-4949.

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

GASPORT – Joyce K. Elsenheimer, age 87, passed away peacefully on December 21, 2024 at the Niagara Hospice House. She was born March 11, 1937 in Lockport to the late F. DeWitt Kill and Irene Leibring.

Joyce was proud to be a more than 50-year member of Eastern Star #153. She enjoyed tending to her plants, crafts and puzzles. Her greatest joy was spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren…who called her “Gramma Honey.”

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband Harold in 2019, and her sister Evelyn Elsenheimer.

Joyce is survived by her children, Desiree (Jan) Flora, Jeffrey (Victoria) Elsenheimer, Gregory (Donna) Elsenheimer, Thomas (Brigitte) Elsenheimer, Diana (Fritz) Quackenbush, Patrick (Bonnie) Elsenheimer and Amy (Jeffrey) Wolter; 21 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great grandson as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family will receive friends on Saturday Dec. 28 from 10:30 to 11 a.m. at the West Somerset Baptist Church, 1876 Hosmer Rd, Appleton, NY 14008 where her funeral service will be held immediately following visitation at 11 a.m. Interment will follow in Hartland Central Cemetery.

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

Joyce’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Sherrie Bream Funeral Home of Gasport, NY. To share a special memory of Joyce, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

ALBION – Paul C. Draper, Jr., age 69, passed away December 19, 2024 at United Memorial Medical Center in Batavia. He was born August 28, 1955 in Brockport to the late Paul C. Draper, Sr. and Shirley M. Vandorn.

Paul served in the U.S Army. Paul enjoyed Cooking & Baking from scratch. He enjoyed shopping on QVC and Temu. He loved decorating for holidays & Seasons. But most of all, he enjoyed Old Classic Country Music. He played lead guitar and was lead singer in his bands such as Rusty Draper & The Country Express and Shiloh. He was a true legend in his own time and had many fans.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his siblings Laurie and Mark Draper.

He is survived by his 5 children; Talisa, P.D III, Amanda, Houston & Jenelle and 6 siblings: Doreen, Kathi, Ken, Karen, Toni & Missy 9 grandchildren and one great grandchild and many nieces and nephews, and significant others: Sally & his precious cat, Mallory.

Paul requested no services however his family will be hosting a celebration of life on or around his 70th birthday in 2025

Paul’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home of Albion, NY.

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