Obituaries

ALBION – Sybil I. Brace, age 79, passed away August 17, 2026 at Rochester General Hospital. Sybil was born in Batavia, December 1, 1946, a daughter of the late George and Vivian (Youngs) Briggs.

Sybil was a former employee of Arnold Gregory Memorial Hospital in Albion and Fisher Price in Medina. She loved her animals and listing to a live band and dancing. Sybil will also be remembered for her great sense of humor.

She was predeceased by her son Joseph Button, brother George Briggs and the father of her children, Edward Button.

Sybil is survived by her daughters Mary (Nick Nicolazzo) Heise and Amy Button, grandchildren Ashley Button, Andrew Button, Richard Button, Nicholas Button, Maciel Gomez, Maranda Button, Carmen Gomez, Jared Button and Brendon Burening; several great-grandchildren, niece Sherie Briggs, nephews Darryl (Michele) Briggs and Rusty Briggs.

Sybil’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes 21 W. Avenue, Albion on Friday September 18, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Services and interment will be private.

Memorials may be made to PAWS Animal Shelter 3371 Gaines Basin Rd. Albion, NY 14411 or paws14411.com.

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

Dorothy M. Cramer, 92, passed away September 12, 2026 at Orleans Community Health/North Wing.

She leaves behind four children, Debra Miller, Birdie (Jim) Volkosh, Carol (Peter) Staschak and Myron (Lisa) Cramer. She also leaves 10 grandchildren, Audrey (David) Storm, Shawn (Cheryl) Kleinsmith, Darcy (Shane) Livergood, Kelly (Ryan) Halstead, John Volkosh, Billy (Kristine) Trinder, Tawnya (Rick) Sutton, Jarrod Cramer (Nicole), Craig (Jessica) Cramer and Alissa Cramer (Ben). She also had 29 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren.   She is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by Wallace K. Cramer, and her son Terry Lee Cramer, her father Floyd White Sr., her mother Florence Cooper-White-Maloney, sisters Eunice Healy, Shirley Licata & brother Floyd White Jr.

The family wishes to thank the staff at North Wing and the many residents she considered family. Special thanks to Katie and Pastor Randy from Orleans County Hospice who were with us during her end of life.

Per her request, there will be no calling hours or funeral.

 MEDINA – Francis “Joe” Luczak, age 61, passed away peacefully at his home after a brief battle with cancer on September 9, 2026. He was born in Medina on September 21, 1964 to Frank and Mary (nee Snell) Luczak.

Joe began his polishing career at Barnes Metal Finishing before continuing his work at Niagara Custom Plating. Most recently, he worked as a riveter at Brunner, where he continued to take pride in his craftsmanship and dedication to his work.

Outside of his career, Joe had a deep passion for antique outboard boat motors, lovingly restoring many of them to their original condition. He enjoyed the blues, antique cars, the Buffalo Bills, and the companionship of his beloved cat, Moe. Above all, Joe cherished the time he spent with his wife—driving around together, laughing, singing, and simply enjoying life’s moments side by side.

Joe was predeceased by his father, Frank. He is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Robin (nee Williams) Luczak; daughter, Julie Luczak; stepson, Russell (Tiffany) Barnes; grandchildren, Neveya and Gage Barnes and Kade Broskin; Kade’s father, Coty Broskin; mother, Mary Luczak; sisters, Linda (Brad) Wilson, Lorraine “Sissy” (Jeff) Stockwell.

At his request, a private service will be held. Inurnment Mount Albion Cemetery.

Arrangements entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 21 West Ave., Albion, NY.

Donations in his name may be made to the American Cancer Society, PO Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741 or cancer.org.

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

BARRE – In the words of Paul Harvey, “And on the eighth day, God looked down on his planned paradise and said, ‘I need a caretaker.’  So, God made a farmer. It had to be somebody who’d plow deep and straight and not cut corners. Somebody to seed, weed, feed, breed, brake and disk, and plow and plant. Somebody who’d bale a family together with the soft, strong bonds of sharing.”

Jeffrey W. Watkins was born on Thursday, December 9, 1954, one of eight children born to Robert and Alice (Carleton) Watkins of Canastota, NY. He grew up on a farm and although he held many jobs throughout his life, farming was always at the heart of who he was.

He spent nearly 30 years farming for Del-Mar Farms and Kreher Family Farms. He took great pride in his ability to grow just about any vegetable he was asked to grow, whether in his own garden or commercially. One of his greatest joys recently came from growing vegetables that his grandchildren could later harvest alongside him.

Jeff enjoyed many things beyond farming. Over the years, he could be found camping, hunting, snowmobiling, golfing, taking scenic drives through the countryside and neighboring states in search of a good meal, or playing cards with friends. He especially enjoyed his many trips to Michigan, where he treasured time with family and friends and found peace in the beauty and serenity of the Great Lakes. He was also an avid sports fan, with a particular passion for the Detroit Lions, and trips with family to Detroit to enjoy a game were special memories for him.

In his later years, Jeff was especially grateful to Ken Snyder for introducing him to the greatest support group of friends, who became an important part of his life. Whether they were on the golf course or at the Vet’s Club, they laughed together, shed tears together, and always had one another’s backs. Jeff knew that if he ever needed anything, all he had to do was ask. He only wished he could have found them many years sooner.

Jeff is survived by his loving, caring wife and best friend, Sherry (Matthews) Watkins, and his children: Tammy (Erika) Watkins, Jeffrey P. (Helen) Watkins, Sarah (Matt) Knodel, Jessica Watkins, Scott (Amanda) Klein, Kimberly (Sean) Condon, and Nicole (Zack) Chase.

He is also survived by many smart, beautiful, athletic and loving grandchildren, whom he loved so dearly and took immense pride in. One of his greatest wishes was to simply have more time to watch them grow, succeed, and find joy in wherever their lives might take them. Jeff also leaves behind George, his faithful golden retriever and constant companion.

His family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the caring team at Medina Memorial Hospital and Wilmot Cancer Center for the compassion, support and excellent care they provided to Jeff.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 21 West Avenue, Albion, on Sunday, October 11th from 2 to 5 p.m.  A private service and interment will be held in Mt. Albion Cemetery at the convenience of the family.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Medina Memorial Hospital (https://.orleanscommunity-health.org/grateful-patient-program/).

Jeff’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home of Albion.

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

MEDINA – Carolyn D. “Carrie” Wittmeyer, 80, of Medina, NY, passed away on Monday morning, September 7, 2026, at the United Memorial Hospital, Batavia, NY.

Born on July 29, 1946, she was the daughter of the late Francis and Mary (Cotriss) Menclewicz.

Carrie graduated from Medina High School in 1964 and attended the Cosmetology School in Buffalo. She was previously married and raised two children, then married Gerard Wittmeyer; together, they raised six children.

Carrie was self-employed and ran her salon out of her home. She was a member of St. Mary’s Church and was a former member of the Sacred Heart Club. Carrie enjoyed cooking for her family and friends, and with her husband, enjoyed the warm weather while wintering in Florida.

Carrie is survived by her husband, Gerard; children, Jeannine (Patrick Crowley) Armbrewster, Pamela (Kenneth) Johnson, Jeffery (Laura Mattatall) Wittmeyer, Joseph Wittmeyer, and Mary Beth (Kris) Koch; grandchildren, Gaige and Gavin Armbrewster, Kyle and Kaci Wittmeyer, Trevor Brigham, Brandon Johnson, and Amy (Brad) Hazel; great-grandchildren, Kayden Brigham and Brody and Bryson Hazel. Also surviving is a sibling, Marcia (Bruce) Foley, a daughter-in-law, Sonja Armbrewster, and many nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents, Carrie is predeceased by a son, Chad Armbrewster; and two siblings, Joan Pritchard and Francis Menclewicz.

There are no calling hours. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, September 16, at Holy Trinity/St/ Mary’s Church, 300 West Ave. Medina, NY 14103. Burial will be private for the family.

Memorials may be made in Carrie’s name to a charity of one’s choice.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St., Medina, NY 14103.

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

ALBION – Chelcie A. Edwards, age 96, died September 7, 2026 in The Villages of Orleans following a long illness. She was born June 5, 1930 in Clarion County, PA to Olla and May Anne (Space) Lucas and had lived in this area most of her life.

Chelcie was a 58-year member of the Albion Free Methodist Church, a former employee of Harrison Radiator in Lockport, and a former cashier in the Albion Middle School. She enjoyed gardening, working in her flower beds, crocheting, and baking. Her favorite activity however, was spending time with her friends and family.

Mrs. Edwards was predeceased by her husband, Beverley Lee Edwards; her children, J.T. Edwards, Randy Edwards, Scott Edwards and 14 brothers and sisters.

She is survived by her children, Randy (Karen) Crissman of Cooperstown, Mark (Rhonda) Crissman of AZ, Susan (Harvey) Campbell of Lyndonville, Cindy (Donny) Grabowski of Lyndonville and Mickey (Melinda) Edwards of Kent; 19 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; 5 great-great-grandchildren as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 21 West Avenue-Albion on Thursday, Sept. 24, from 4 to 7 p.m. Family and friends are invited to attend her funeral service at 11 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 25, at the Albion Free Methodist Church, 25 S. Platt Street, Albion, NY, 14411. Interment will follow in Mt. Albion Cemetery.

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

Jillian T. “Jilly” Hart, 44, of Rochester, NY, entered into rest after a short battle with cancer on Saturday, September 5, 2026, at Unity Hospital, surrounded by family and friends.

Born on February 10, 1982, in Albion, NY, she was the daughter of Gene and the late Diane L. (Monahan) Hart.

Jill graduated from Albion High School in 2000, where she received her Varsity Letter for playing volleyball, softball, and basketball. She was employed as a Medical Staffing and Recruiter for over 20 years. Jill was an avid softball player and coach for over 30 years and her holding office with the Medina Women’s Softball League. In her spare time, she enjoyed helping her father with Ducks Unlimited; she was also instrumental in organizing family parties, events, and trips, especially to summers Old Forge and winter vacations in Florida.

Jill is survived by her parents, Gene and Donna Hart; her sister, Pamela (David Warren) Hart; her chosen sister, Bobbie Jo Cotter; her love of her life, Tyrone Newsome; four special nieces, Paris (Austin Narburgh) Smith, Alexis Smith, Taylor Smith and Brae’lyn Smith; a great-niece, Everleigh Narburgh; two aunts, Patricia (Russ) Loop and Deborah Monahan; three step-brothers, Micheal (Lisa) Earp, Russell (Mary) Earp and Brien Earp; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews and cousins; also, three fur babies, Mello, Ace and Baby.

Jill is predeceased by her maternal and paternal grandparents, her mother Diane, and numerous aunts and uncles.

Relatives and friends may call on Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St., Medina, NY 14103, where a funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Burial will be private for the family.

Memorials may be made in Jilly’s name to PAWS Animal Shelter, 3371 Gaines Basin Rd, Albion, NY 14411.

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

HOLLEY – Francis J. “Frank” Gurzynski, age 83, died August 31, 2026 in the Aurora House in Spencerport. He was born November 11, 1942 in Albion to Frank and Isabelle (Lewandowski) Gurzynski and was a life-long resident of this area.

Frank was a United States Air Force Veteran having served in the Vietnam War era and was a member of the Holley VFW. He was a member of the Brockport Free Methodist Church, where he served as head usher and was a staple in many of the church activities. Following his retirement from Eastman Kodak, Frank worked at the Brockport Walmart. In his spare time, he enjoyed fishing, working in the yard and playing Mr. Fix-it as a general handy-man around the house.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Sharon; his son, David (Kimberly) Gurzynski of GA; his daughter, Karen (Ted) Howard of Medina; his brother, Robert (Cheryl) Gurzynski of Albion; his sister, Diane (Paul) Urban of Tonawanda; his grandchildren, Macy Lee Gurzynski, Gia Grace Howard, Arianna Rose, and Cole Xavier Gurzynski as well as several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends at the Brockport Free Methodist Church, 6787 Fourth Section Road, Brockport, NY, 14420, on Thursday, Sept. 10 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. where his Memorial Service will be held following visitation beginning at 12:30 p.m. Interment with Military Honors will be held in Mt. Albion Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Holley Fire Company, 7 Thomas Street, Holley, New York, 14470.

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

SPENCERPORT – David C. Siplo, age 74, passed away unexpectedly on July 12 2026. He was born January 4, 1952, in Rochester, NY, to Joseph and Doris (Thorpe) Siplo.

David enjoyed catching up with his girls, playing with his grandchildren, listening to local music with his partner, Amy, tinkering on his vintage truck, cutting flower bouquets and spending time at The River. He was a giver with a big heart, always willing to help where he could.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his beloved wife Jackie in 2010,

David is survived by his two daughters, Jenny Rae (Shaun) Swan, Nikki Siplo, grandchildren Kelly and Reece Swan, significant other Amy Wright DeYoung, siblings Brian (late Maria) Siplo, Patricia (Bill) Thomas, Ann (George) Levy, brothers-in-law Daniel (Marty) Marquart, Scott (Becky) Marquart, as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

David’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 16650 State Route 31 Holley, NY.

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

ALBION – Gary Lee Katsanis, 67, of Albion, New York, passed away on August 2nd at Strong Memorial Hospital after a courageous months-long fight against brain cancer.

Gary was born on September 11, 1958 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to David John Katsanis and Anna Mataloni and was a younger sibling to Paul David Katsanis and Karen Ann Katsanis. They lived in the Rhawnhurst area of Philadelphia before moving to nearby Bucks County in 1963 and then to Pylesville, Maryland in 1970.

Gary graduated North Harford High School in 1976 and then went on to attend Towson State University (now Towson University), graduating in 1980 with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics/Economics. He moved to New York to attend the University of Rochester and earned a Master of Arts in Economics there in 1985.

Gary married his high school sweetheart, Susan Kay Nash, on June 27, 1987. They welcomed their first child, Laura Elizabeth, in 1990. Their second child, Rachel Ann followed in 1993 and their third, Amanda Rose, was welcomed in 1996. He was a master of the dad joke and an avid punster.

The family settled in Rochester then later moved to Albion. Gary first worked for Strong Memorial Hospital doing medical data analysis and later continued this career at Blue Cross – eventually managing a staff that stretched from Buffalo to Utica. He worked mostly with the SAS statistical software and was active in the NESUG (North-East SAS User’s group) for many years. He retired early due to medical issues related to Lyme disease.

He continued being active by getting involved in local politics. Gary was elected to the Village of Albion board from 2014 to 2016 as a trustee, and again from 2018 to 2022. During his second term he was also appointed as Deputy Mayor.

Gary was an avid bicyclist during his twenties and participated in many races that included double centuries (200 mile races). Gary was also an enthusiastic home craftsman tackling projects from complete home renovations to helping his brother to build a deck. He never hesitated to help others with their home repairs and projects. His hobbies included collecting and restoring antique tools and firearms, hunting, woodworking, and target shooting.

Gary is predeceased by his parents, his wife Susan, and his youngest child Amanda.

He is survived by his brother Paul and his wife Susan, son David, and step-daughter Marie; his sister Karen and her husband David; his daughter Laura and her husband Pedro; and his daughter Rachel and her husband Shawn and daughter Katerina.

There will be a celebration of life at St. Mary’s Athletic Club in Albion NY on September 11th at 5 p.m., a celebration of life at Stone Ridge Hollow in Forest Hill MD on September 20th at 10am, and an interment at Highview Memorial Gardens on September 21st at 10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers and cards, the family asks for donations to St. Mary’s Athletic Club at 538 Moore St, Albion, NY 14411, or to PAWS Animal Shelter at 3371 Gaines Basin Rd., Albion, NY 14411 to continue his passion of supporting the community he loved.

OKEECHOBEE, FLORIDA/ALBION, NEW YORK – Esther E. Burnette, age 87, died August 28, 2026 in the Okeechobee Health Care Facility following a brief illness. She was born December 3, 1938 in Albion to Carl and Dorothy (Forder) Pawlaczyk and had lived in this area until 2004 when she moved to Florida with her husband.

Esther was a former member of St. Mary’s Assumption RC Church, the St. Mary’s Athletic Club and the St. Mary’s Archer’s Club.  She was an avid reader and loved to cook and bake.

Mrs. Burnette was predeceased by her husband and Sweetie of 64 years, Ronald as well as her brother Carl Pawlaczyk and sister Bonnie Bilicki.

She is survived by her children: Dorothy Stacey of Albion, Linda Berryman of FL, Julie (Larry) Scott of FL, David (Patty) Burnette of FL, her sisters: Pat (Bob) Avino of Albion, Margie Shelfer of Rochester, Bernadette Brown of FL as well as several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.

There will be no calling hours.

Family and friends are invited to attend her graveside service in Mount Albion Cemetery on Saturday, Sept. 19, beginning at 11 a.m.  In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN, 38105 or the ASPCA, 424 E. 92nd Street, New York, NY, 10128-6804.

Esther’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home of Albion.

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

Norman K. Clack, Jr., 88, of Crystal Drive in Broadway, NC, formerly of Kent, NY, passed away on Monday, August 24, 2026.

Norm was born October 17, 1937, the son of the late Norman and Grace (Waldron) Clack Sr. Norm was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 66 years, Ann; two sisters, Bonnie (Clack) Wheeler and Mary (Clack) Kenyon; and an older brother, John Clack.

Norm is survived by three married sons, Kenneth and Cathy of Broadway, NC, Gary and Sally of Banning, CA, and Timothy and Denise of Northfield, MN; a sister, Francis (Suzy) Willgens , seven grandchildren and sixteen great-grandchildren. Please keep Norm’s family in your thoughts and prayers as they mourn his passing and celebrate his life.

Norm entered the U.S. Navy in 1955. He worked at U.S. Naval Shipyards in San Francisco and Long Beach, CA, retiring with 30 years of service at the age of 55.

A Celebration of Life will be held for family and friends at 2 p.m. Friday, September 18, 2026, at Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery, 8220 Bragg Boulevard, Spring Lake, NC 28390.

Immediately following the Celebration of Life, the family will receive friends and host a reception at Broadway United Methodist Church, 106 Church Street, Broadway, NC 27505. Services entrusted to Adcock Funeral Home and Crematory, Spring Lake, NC.

ALBION – Our beloved father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend, Randy Lee Ruhlman, passed away peacefully at home on August 13, 2026, at the age of 64. Randy was preceded in death by his mother, Freda May Barnard, and his brother, Edward L. Ruhlman.

Left to cherish his memory are his daughter and her husband, Rachael and Chuck Tobin, his grandchildren, Caleb, Aaliah and Charlie of Hilton, New York;  his father, Dan Barnard, of Raleigh, NC; his sisters, Nadine (Kevin) Gallagher of Hilton, NY; Lisa (Larry) Mitchell of Raleigh, NC; and Amy (Kevin) Cifelli of Medina, NY, along with numerous nieces,  nephews, great nieces, great nephews, cousins, and friends whom will remember him fondly.

Randy, a proud veteran of the US Navy, served aboard the USS Blakely. He valued the travel, education, and training he received during his years of service and received many commendations. After having his daughter, he continued his education and maintained his Chief Engineer license while also obtaining numerous professional accreditations. As the Director of Facilities at Hill Haven Nursing Home, Ragu, and Bausch & Lomb, he enjoyed the atmosphere at work, the challenge of troubleshooting and fixing issues, and mentoring others. During his time at Hill Haven, he could even be found building birdhouses for residents. In his retirement, Randy was the proud owner and operator of Fitzgibbons Public House and 39 Problems along the Erie Canal in Orleans County NY.

Randy will be remembered for his loving heart, his generosity, and sense of humor. He was always ready to lend a helping hand to others. We will miss his milkshakes, potato and macaroni salads, meatballs with Ragu, dance moves, and laughter. His memory will live on in the stories we share and the cookies baked in his honor.

A celebration to honor Randy’s life will be held on September 11, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Thomas E. Burger Funeral Home, Inc., located at 735 East Avenue, Hilton, NY 14468.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made online to Volunteers of America in Randy’s memory

HOLLEY – Patrick A. Ornt, age 36, passed away unexpectedly on August 23, 2026. He was born December 6, 1989 in Rochester to Alfred M. Ornt Jr. and Lorraine Simons.

Pat was predeceased by his father, his paternal grandparents Alfred and Shirley Ornt and maternal grandmother Marilyn Sailer.

Patrick loved a challenge and wrenching on motors and had a passion for motorsports. He loved dirt bikes, motorcycles, and 4-wheelers. He was a smart, strong, loving, and caring person to all that he knew. He loved his family and friends. He always had a smile on his face and was the life of the party.

Patrick is survived by his girlfriend Sierra Kuhn and their son Malachi, mother Lorraine Simons, siblings Jessica (Carl Engert), Nicholas (Jacquelyn), Stacy (Corey Brown), Todd (Gina Trotter), Matthew, Shawna, many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins that loved him, especially his beloved dog Bella Rose, and his friends in the “Fancher crew”.

Pat’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 16650 State Route 31 Holley, NY 14470 on Tuesday, September 1st from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. His celebration of life service will be held at the funeral home on Wednesday, September 2nd at 11 a.m. Interment will follow in Maple Grove Cemetery in Churchville.

Family and friends are invited to a luncheon at Red Fedele’s Brook House, 920 Elmridge Center Dr, Rochester, NY 14626 after the services for Pat.

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

BANGOR, ME – Marilynn Ann (Wais) Dodson, 68, died on August 23, 2026, in Bangor, Maine. She was born on September 19, 1957, in Brockport, NY, to Dave and Margaret Wais.

Marilynn was predeceased by her parents, her husband, Philip G. Dodson, and her brother, Bill. She is sadly missed by her sister, Barbara of Maine; brother, Al of Brockport; grandnieces, Tessa Roscoe (Robin George) of Virginia, Stacy and Vanessa Wais; great-grandniece, Kira Seretto of Holley, NY; and her little dog of 15 years, Chubb. She will rest alongside her husband at Garland Cemetery, Clarkson, NY. There will be no services.

Arrangements provided by Brookings Smith, Bangor, Maine.

LYNDONVILLE – Gary L. Wakefield, age 60, of Lyndonville, NY, passed away on Monday, August 24, 2026, at the Medina Memorial Hospital, where he received excellent care.

Gary was born on November 15th, 1965, in Medina, NY, to the late Milford and Shirley (Helsdon) Wakefield, where he was the fifth of the boys.

Gary grew up in Lyndonville and graduated in the class of 1983. After high school, he worked briefly at the Lyndonville Canning Company. From there, he worked at Multifoods in Lockport, where he worked primarily as a machine operator for 15 years. He ended his career working in the Lyndonville School District as a Custodian. He found fulfillment in giving back to the community, building meaningful lifelong relationships with students and teachers alike. He always found pride in giving 110% effort to provide the best environment for the kids. His legacy is showcased in his stained-glass artwork, which is on display in the high school’s main lobby.

When Gary wasn’t working, he had many hobbies, including woodworking, stained glass, antiquing, and candy making. He also had a love for collecting anything old, such as quilts, Fenton lamps, furniture, and his most prized possession, a 1931 Ford Street Rod, named “Sassy”.

Gary is survived by his wife of 38 years, Sandra (Harris) Wakefield; his stepson, Eric (Shelly) Harling; his grandchildren, Alex Harling and Jessica (David) Lauer; his favorite cousins, Lori Draper and Thomas (Connie) Harris. He is also survived by his brother, Kent (Juli) Wakefield; his sister-in-law, Wanda (Jeff) Wakefield; his aunt, Linda Helsdon; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He leaves behind his devoted buddy, a Yorkie Terrier “Fred”. He will be remembered by many dear friends.

Besides his parents, Gary is predeceased by his siblings, Bruce, Greg and Jeff Wakefield.

As per Gary’s wishes, there are no calling hours. A private service will be held at the convenience of the family.

Memorials may be made in Gary’s name to the PAWS Animal Shelter, 3371 Gaines Basin Rd, Albion, NY 14411 or to the Band or Sports Boosters at the Lyndonville High School, 25 Housel Ave. Lyndonville, NY 14098.

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 Gary at www.bogantuttlefunerals.com.

KENT – John J. Buckland, age 82, passed away August 21, 2026, at Strong Memorial Hospital after a brief illness. He was born January 5, 1944 in Albion to the late Jay and Velma (Stafford) Buckland.

John was a founding member of COVA and also a 50-year member of the Carlton Fire Co. He enjoyed spending time outdoors and farming.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his son-in-law, Andrew Pecorella; brother, James Buckland; and brother-in-law, Richard Jewsberry.

John is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Mary Ann Buckland; children, John Buckland, Tammy Pecorella and Cathy Buckland; grandchildren, William and Sara Pecorella; siblings, Mary Jewsberry and Robert (Betty) Buckland; brothers and sisters-in-law, Leona Quackenbush, George (Cindy) Lonnen, Rose Stephens, Alice Klatt Miller and Kenny (Linda) Lonnen; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

John’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 21 West Ave. Albion, NY 14411 on Wednesday, August 26th from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. where his funeral service will immediately follow at 1 p.m. Interment will be held in Kent Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in John’s name may be made to Hospice of Orleans, 14080 Route 31 Albion, NY 14411 or Palliative Care Program at the UR Medicine/Strong Memorial Hospital, 601 Elmwood Ave. Rochester, NY 14642.

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

HOLLEY – Daniel Andrew Kernan, age 60, passed away unexpectedly on August 20, 2026. Dan was born February 11, 1966, in Aberdeen, Washington, a son of the late Keith Eugene and Jean Elizabeth Kernan and was the middle child of 9.

Dan worked a long (25+) year career at Tops Supermarket in Albion and Hamlin. Dan was a writer, an artist, and a lot of wonderful things to a lot of people. He loved spending time with family the most, and never missed a family gathering.

He will be sorely missed by his siblings Carole (Jeff), Lee Anne (Jamie), Bill, Sharon (Matt), Kathy (Steve), Reuben, Nathan (Rachel), sister-in-law Peggy (Paul) and countless adoring nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother Keith R. “Kib.”

Dan will always be remembered for his wit, creativity, love of family, work ethic, caring nature, and kindness.

His Celebration of Life Service will be held Friday September 11th at 4 p.m. at the Harvest Christian Fellowship, 560 East Ave., Albion NY 14411 with a meal to follow. Burial will be in Mt. Albion Cemetery privately at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that you hug a loved one, extend a hand to a person in need, and don’t pass on the chance to tell someone you love them.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Albion. To share a memory of Dan, visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Christine Sarah Bates (Daly), a beloved mother and sister, passed away peacefully on August 2nd, leaving behind a legacy of strength, love, and resilience.

She is survived by her sons, Marcus Bates (Dawn Williams) and Michael Bates (Evelyn Ruiz); her brothers, Harold Daly and George Daly; and her sister, Theresa Bringham.

Christine will be remembered as a fighter, a mother, and a sister who will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Please join us for a Celebration of Life at the Charles Maier Lodge on Sunday, August 23rd, from 3 to 6 p.m. Charles Maier Lodge is located at 2806 Roosevelt Hwy, Hamlin, NY 14464. Refreshments will be provided.

SHELBY – Kenneth J. Caleb, 95, of Shelby, NY, passed away on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at the Medina Memorial Hospital. Born on April 4, 1931, in Shelby, NY, he was the son of the late Edwin and Corrine (Reed) Caleb.

Kenneth grew up on the family farm, working in the Shelby muck. In 1955, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, working as a Roads & Grounds Specialist, building runways and airfields.

Just before entering the Service, he married the former Marilyn Pratt, and together, they raised three children.After returning home, Kenneth worked for the Town of Shelby Highway Department and later for Keeler Construction Company for over 30 years, retiring in 1995. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping.

He is survived by his children, Candy (Edwin) Koch, Wade (Bonnie) Caleb and Shorty Caleb. Also surviving are his grandchildren, Heather Koch Banker, Kris (Mary Beth) Koch, Brian (Holly) Koch, Noah, Dustin, and Markie Caleb; six great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Besides his wife Marilyn, Kenneth is predeceased by eleven siblings.

Per Kenneth’s wishes, there are no calling hours, and a private service will be held at the convenience of the family, with full military honors.

Memorials may be made in Kenneth’s name to the Orleans Joint Veterans Council, 13996 Rt. 31, Albion, NY 14411, or to the Shelby Volunteer Fire Company, P.O. Box#1, Medina, NY 14103

Arrangements were entrusted to the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St., Medina, NY 14103.

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