Obituaries
Posted May 01 2025
Joyce A. Cook
INVERNESS, FL – Joyce A. Cook, age 82 of Inverness, Florida passed away peacefully on April 17, 2025 at Vitas Hospice Care Center. Born on March 25, 1943, in Medina, New York, she lived a life marked by devotion to family, faith, and friendship and left an amazing legacy to her family. She was an amazing mother, grandmother, friend and devoted wife and will forever be in our memories.
Joyce was the beloved daughter of Glenn and Nola (Austin) Hill. She graduated from high school in Medina in 1961 and later earned an Associate of Art Degree from Genesee Community College. Her professional journey included dedicated services as an Accounting and Administrative Assistant at Parsons/Agway Oil in Medina, Griffith Energy in Rochester and Rochester Button Company. After relocating to Florida, she continued to share her talents part-time at Como RV in Inverness.
A woman of deep faith, Joyce was a devoted member of Cornerstone Baptist Church in Inverness. She found strength and community through worship services and Bible study groups and was baptized alongside her husband – a moment that reflected their shared spiritual journey.
Her passions were many and varied – she loved water aerobics and was a longtime member of Citrus Hills Golf & Country Club where she attended classes weekly for years. She had a keen interest in family genealogy and proudly traced her lineage back to Richard Warren, a passenger on the Mayflower, this led Joyce to become a proud member of the General Society of Mayflower Descendants. As she discovered such historical military connections within her family, her dedication led her to becoming a member of The Daughters of The American Revolution. Joyce also enjoyed arts and crafts, baking for loved ones, traveling the world with dear friends Vonnie Peters and Jeanne Crane, and many cruises with her husband, Ray and family, attending church events, and dining out to experience local cuisine while meeting new people along the way.
Joyce was a dedicated Sorority Sister of Sigma Lambda Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi for over six decades. Joyce was a President and passionately enjoyed being the Treasurer. She was crafty, talented and came up with great ideas for programs that were always interesting and fun. Joyce was caring and very generous and readily available when needed. Her Sorority Sisters loved her and will miss her very much.
Joyce faced her diagnosis of Stage 4 pancreatic cancer with remarkable courage and grace over the last two years of her life. Her resilience inspired all who knew her. Joyce was fondly thought of by her medical team and staff. She always managed to have a smile on her face with a sense of humor that was infectious by all.
Joyce was preceded in death by her husband, Raymond E. Cook Jr. of 59 years, with whom she shared a loving marriage rooted in faith and mutual respect. Together they raised two children: David S. Cook of North Chili, New York and Lori A. Fortunato of Inverness, Florida. Joyce found immense joy in her role as a grandmother to Nathan J. Rosenthal and Nicole L. Rosenthal of New Jersey, cherishing the special memories they created during summers spent together in Florida and holiday gatherings.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, June 7th, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Walsh Hotel, 525 West Avenue, Medina, New York. Joyce will be laid to rest at Millville Cemetery, Medina, NY. Cremation care by Chas E. Davis Funeral Home with Crematory, Inverness, Florida. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to the American Cancer Society.
Posted April 29 2025
Donna M. Manuel
MIDDLEPORT – Donna M. Manuel (née Begovich), 61, of Middleport, NY, passed away unexpectedly at her home on Saturday, April 26, 2025.
Born and raised in Buffalo, she was a daughter of the late Walter and Jean (Gesse) Begovich. Donna was a graduate of Kenmore East High School.
On March 5, 2005 she married Samuel W. Manuel.
She worked for many years as a customer service representative for Starline Inc. in Grand Island. Donna was a lifelong devoted fan of the Buffalo Sabres and Buffalo Bills, and enjoyed cheering her teams on through all the highs and lows.
She combined her love of photography, gardening and birds by capturing beautiful photos of those visiting her garden. She was known for her peanut butter cookies, her love for the Christmas season and her knack for being able to find the perfect gift. The greatest joys in Donna’s life were her grandchildren. She was deeply loved and will be missed by all.
In addition to her parents, Donna was predeceased by her son, Steven W. Darrow.
Left to cherish her memory are her husband, Sam Manuel of Middleport; sons, Dennis (Gina) Darrow of North Tonawanda and Christopher (Baylee) Darrow of Melbourne, FL; sister, Kristina (Tad) Dolinar of Town of Tonawanda; and beloved grandchildren, Mason, Kaiser and Emilia; and many extended family members, friends and her beloved dog, Dayze.
Visitation will be held on Friday, May 2 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Bates, Wallace & Heath Funeral Home, 38 State St., Middleport, NY 14105. Her funeral service will also be held at the funeral home the next morning, Saturday, May 3 at 11 a.m. Interment will be in Mount View Cemetery in Olean, NY at a later date.
Share memories and condolences at www.mitchellfamilyfhs.com.
Posted April 28 2025
Gary R. Whitney
HOLLEY – Gary R. Whitney, age 71, passed away with his loving family at his side on April 25, 2025. He was born October 20, 1953 in Rochester to the late Donald and Joan (Milne) Whitney.
Gary proudly served in the Navy and retired with a rank of Chief Warrant Officer-2 after 20 years of active duty. Gary was a Batman enthusiast, collecting anything Batman related throughout the years.
In addition to his parents, Donald and Joan, he was predeceased by his brother, Donnie Whitney.
Gary is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Sandra; daughter, CarriAnn (Neil Musshafen) Whitney; siblings, Karen Sheldon, Sharri (Bill) Thomas, SuAnne Quackenbush and Dennis (Mary) Quackenbush; granddaughter, Desarae (Cody); great-grandchildren, Joshua, Everly, Cash and Kayden; as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.
There are no prior calling hours. A service to celebrate Gary’s life will be held at the New Hope Community Church (formerly First Baptist Church of Medina), 203 West Center St. Medina, NY 14103 on Thursday, May 1st at 11 a.m. Military honors will be accorded immediately following the service at the church.
Memorial contributions in his name may be made to Hospice of Orleans, 14080 Route 31 Albion, NY 14411.
Gary’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home of Albion, NY.
To share a special memory of Gary, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.
Posted April 27 2025
Charles R. Downey
HOLLEY – Charles R. “Charlie” Downey, age 62, died suddenly April 24, 2025. He was born May 25, 1962 in Brockport to Richard “Rit” and Mary (Ophardt) Downey and had lived in this area all of his life.
Charlie was a retiree of RG&E and had also retired from the Genesee Orleans Ministry of Concern. He was a former member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Hamlin, and enjoyed spending time at his camp in the Adirondacks.
Charlie enjoyed riding motorcycles, 4 wheeling, going to auctions, working on tractors and tinkering in his shop. He was extremely family oriented and was a man who’s life revolved around helping other people. His support, love and laugh will be greatly missed.
Mr. Downey was predeceased by his mother, Mary Downey.
He is survived by his father, Richard “Rit” Downey of Holley; his sister, Denise Johnstone of Holley; his brother, Eric (Elizabeth Sullivan) Lusk of Hamlin; his nieces and nephews, Ryan (Jamie) Johnstone, Joel (Anna) Johnstone, Kelsie (Joshua) Vogt, Hillary Lusk and Owen Lusk; a great nephew, Miles William Johnstone; as well as several cousins and dear friends.
The family will receive friends on Friday May 2nd from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 16650 State Rt. 31-Holley, where his funeral service will be held following visitation beginning at 7 p.m.
Interment in Parma Union Cemetery will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Genesee Orleans Ministry Of Concern, 29 East State St., Albion, NY, 14411.
To share a special memory of Charlie, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.
Posted April 26 2025
Charles E. “Huck” Fuller
SHELBY – Charles E. “Huck” Fuller, 90, of Shelby, NY, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Tuesday, April 23, 2025 at Medina Memorial Hospital, under the care of Hospice of Orleans.
Charlie was born on November 1, 1934 in the Town of Royalton. He was a son of the late Wilbert and Edna (Harch) Fuller.
Charlie married the former Shirley Glena on February 11, 1956. Together they made their home in Shelby and raised a family of five children.
Charlie had a strong work ethic. He worked for Keeler Construction for over 30 years. He was also a jack of all trades who was able to fix almost anything. Charlie was a lifetime member of the Shelby Volunteer Fire Co., active during his younger years. He was known for his dry and witty personality and will be lovingly remembered as a kindhearted individual that loved to laugh and make others laugh.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by the love of his life, Shirley Fuller in 2020; daughter, Cathy; son, Douglas; siblings, Roger, Glenn, Norm (Lou), James, Jaydee, Gordon (Cheri), Tom (Jeanne), Rosemary, Louretta, Mildred and Catherine; son in-law, David L. Smith; sister in-law, Barbara Fuller; and brother in-law, Charles Wilson.
He is survived by his children, Michael (Sandy) Fuller, Cindy Smith, Mark (Letty) Fuller and Connie (Phillip) Zimmerman; grandchildren, Michelle, Chad, Amy, Brandon, Aaron (Steph) and Jason (Autumn); several great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; siblings, John Fuller (Judy), Alroy (Gail) Fuller and Cecelia Wilson; brother and sisters in-law, Edward Pray, Pat Fuller and Vera Fuller; and an abundance of nieces and nephews.
The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Hospice of Orleans for the heartfelt care they gave Charlie over the past year.
A celebration of life and dinner will be held on Friday, May 2 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Shelby Vol. Fire Hall, 4695 S. Gravel Rd., Medina. Interment will be privately held in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Shelby Vol. Fire Co., P.O. Box 1, Medina, NY 14103 or to Hospice of Orleans www.hospiceoforleans.org.
Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share memories and condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.
Posted April 23 2025
Francis J. Cook Jr.
HOLLEY – Francis J. Cook Jr. age 62, passed away April 21, 2025. He was born September 29, 1962, in Binghamton, NY, a son of the late Francis and Marylouise (Cobb) Cook. Frannie worked at Penna Farms for many years and was an avid Buffalo Bills fan.
In addition to his parents, Francis was predeceased by his brother John Henry Cook and sister Elizabeth Williams.
Francis is survived by his sisters, Sarah (Tom) Cronin, Marie (Jon) Ames, brother, Martin (Cathy) Cook, dear friend Joyce Robb and several nieces and nephews.
Frannie’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes 16650 State Route 31, Holley, NY on Friday April 25, from 4:00-7:00. Fran’s Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church 3474 Brick Schoolhouse Rd, Hamlin, NY on MONDAY April 28, at 11:00am.
To share a special memory of Francis, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com
Posted April 23 2025
Lawrence “Larry” Randall
LYNDONVILLE – Lawrence W. “Larry” Randall, 74, of Lyndonville, NY, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, with his loving wife at his side.
Born on June 13, 1950, in Burlington, Vermont, he was the son of the late Lawrence H. and Lois (Smith) Randall.
Larry attended school in Burlington, and at the age of 17, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving during the Vietnam War. On returning home, he worked as a truck driver, where he met his wife Linda, who was also a truck driver. Together, they drove truck for various companies, from which he retired in 2008.
Larry was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church of Lyndonville, NY, and was a member of the Towpath Masonic Temple of Middleport, NY. He also was a member of the Warrior House of WNY, where he enjoyed hunting and fishing.
Larry is survived by his wife, Linda; a sister, Linda Veretta of Colorado; and four close friends, Pat Blackly of Kendall, Mike Parsons of the Southern Tier, Darren Palmer of Lockport, and Edward Spence of Oakfield.
Besides his parents, Larry is predeceased by his siblings, Mike, Jon and Nancy Randall-Nye.
A graveside service with full military honors will be held on Tuesday, May 6th, at 11 a.m. at the WNY Veterans Cemetery, 1254 Indian Falls Rd, Corfu, NY 14036.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in his name to the Warrior House of WNY, 22 Mill St. Oakfield, NY 14125 or to Operation Injured Soldiers, 22645 Pontiac Trail, South Lyon, MI 48178.
Arrangements were entrusted to the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St. Medina, NY 14103.
Please light a candle or share a memory of Larry at www.bogantuttlefunerals.com.
Posted April 23 2025
George Poquette
George Poquette passed away on April 15, 2025.
He was predeceased by his parents, John and Wilhelmina Poquette; daughter, Nicole Poquette; and brother, David Poquette.
George is survived by sisters, Joann and Joyce; daughter, Priscilla Church/Poquette; grandkids, Maria, Kyler, Teanna, Angellina and Julianna.
George was a loving, caring and protective guy. He loved listening to music, working on cars, and spending time outdoors.
A graveside service will be held at Sandy Creek Cemetery in Murray, NY on Tuesday, May 6th at 1 p.m., followed by a gathering at Fancher Hulberton Murray Fire Hall, 3353 Hulberton Rd. Holley, NY.
Posted April 22 2025
Albert G. Ward, Sr.
ALBION – Albert G. Ward, Sr., age 87, passed away April 22, 2025, at Unity Hospital surrounded by his loving family at his side. He was born on December 20, 1937, in Rensselaer, NY to the late George and Lena (Merriweather) Ward.
Albert worked various jobs during his life, from being a farmer in his teens to more recently for the NYS Canal Corp and NYS DOT working on the bridges along the canal and NYS Thruway. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, playing cards and his weekly Euchre games at the Medina Senior Center.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his loving wife Gail in 2021, and son Albert Ward Jr. in 1982
Albert is survived by his children, Pamela (Richard) Woodcook, Roxanne Brooks, Daniel (Karen) Ward, Lora Hayes, Paul (Tammy) Ward, 14 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren and 6 great-great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Albert’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 21 West Ave. Albion, NY 14411 on Friday, April 25th from 2:00-4:00pm where his memorial service will follow at 4:00pm. Private interment will be held in Mt. Albion Cemetery.
To share a special memory of Albert, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.
Posted April 22 2025
Gary L. Lane
MEDINA – Gary L. Lane, of Medina, NY, passed away on Friday, April 18, 2025 at his home at the age of 74. He was born in Medina on June 28, 1950 as one of eleven children to Kenneth D. and Eloise C. (Axtell) Lane. His older siblings were Dorothy Lane, Kenneth Lane, Marilyn Joyce Lane, Nancy Jean Lane, Marian Villard and Ronald Lane, all of whom preceded him in death. He is survived by sisters, Doris M. Dunn and Donna Duranso; and brothers, Leslie Lane and Carl Lane; and many loved nieces and Nephews.
Gary grew up in East Shelby and was a proud graduate of Medina High School. He always got along well with others. He was a peaceful man who was liked by everyone. He loved to help his older sister, Doris, who was his next-door neighbor for years at Maple Ridge Estates. He would get her mail and check in on her daily and help her with anything she needed. Gary was a faithful disciple of Jesus Christ as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He was the secretary in the Sunday School and he loved to set the hymn numbers out for the congregation and ring the bell at church to signal the end of classes and meetings. Gary would often joke that if he missed a Sunday, the church would be in a mess, no one would know what to sing or when to end a meeting and the teachers would go on forever. He never missed, and true to his word the Sunday after his passing the congregation did not know what to do without him. He was always a willing companion to go visit or give a healing blessing to the sick. Gary loved to sing in the church choir. For years Gary generously donated money to help the poor and would even help deliver donated food to the needy. Gary loved to bake and give away chocolate chip cookies when he visited friends. He had a secret recipe and he would frequently joke that if he didn’t follow it right, the cookies would turn out so hard they would be better used as bullets in Vietnam. Gary’s cookies were always perfect. He will be missed by his family, church and all of his friends at Maple Ridge Estates, on the bus, Crosby’s, 5 Star bank, the Medicine Shoppe and all of his daily stops around town. Gary lived a simple happy life, caring for others less fortunate them himself and being friendly with all around him. He truly did unto the “least of these”. Welcome Home Gary Lee Lane.
An hour of calling will be held on Thursday, April 24 from 6-7PM at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 West Center St., Medina. His funeral services will be held on Friday, April 25 at 10AM at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 6339 Hamm Rd., Lockport. Interment will immediately follow in Bates Road Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to ARC GLOW at www.arcglow.org. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.
Posted April 21 2025
Robert L. Pask
SHELBY – Robert L. Pask, age 94, entered into rest peacefully at his home on April 21, 2025. He was born February 21, 1931, in Shelby to the late Glenn and Marian (Boyle) Pask.
Bob married the love of his life, Marie, on October 23, 1954, and together they raised three children.
He was a 1948 graduate of Medina High School and graduated from Cornell University in 1952, where he was a proud member of the AZ Fraternity. He was a lifelong farmer in the area and enjoyed hunting, fishing and taking care of his cherished mules. Bob kept busy with the Cornell Cooperative Extension, 4H, the Blue Bird Society and the East Shelby Community Bible Church.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife Marie in 2009; brothers, J. David (Maggie) Pask, Wayne M. Pask and son-in-law, Randy Steele.
Robert is survived by his children, Bradley (Sally) Pask, Cindy Steele and Kevin (Heidi) Pask; grandchildren, Ian (Angie) Pask, Jesse Pask, Brie (Jonathan) Trembley, Eli Pask, Audrey Pask, Gideon Pask, Sadie Pask, Adeline Pask, Jason Steele and Ryan Steele; great-grandchildren, Ezra Pask, Millie Pask and Riley Washington; brother, William (Sandra) Pask; sister-in-law, Judith Pask; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Bob’s funeral service will be held at the East Shelby Community Bible Church, 5278 East Shelby Rd., Medina, NY 14103 on Saturday, May 3rd at 11 a.m. Private Interment will be held in Millville Cemetery.
Memorial contributions in Robert’s name may be made to the church.
Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.
Posted April 19 2025
Gerald “Shorty” Nellist
LYNDONVILLE – Gerald “Shorty” Gene Nellist, 97, of Lyndonville, passed away Monday, December 2, 2024 at Medina Memorial Hospital.
Relatives and friends may attend a Graveside Committal Service on Sunday, May 4th, at 12 noon at the Lynhaven Cemetery, Housel Ave. Lyndonville, NY. Full Military Honors will be accorded.
A Celebration of Life will be held following the committal at the White Birch Golf Course, 1515 N Lyndonville Rd, Lyndonville, NY 14098
Arrangements have been entrusted to Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 112 N. Main St. Lyndonville, NY 14098.
Please light a candle or share a memory of Shorty at www.bogantuttlefunerals.com.
Posted April 18 2025
Ronald W. “Juice” Matusak
MIDDLEPORT – Ronald W. “Juice” Matusak, age 75, of Middleport, NY went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, peacefully at home.
Born April 19, 1949, in Medina, he was a son of the late Edward and Victoria (Kaczynski) Matusak. Juice graduated from Medina High School in the Class of 1967. He went on to work for Harrison Radiator Division of GM in Lockport for 30 years. On August 28, 1993, he married his beloved wife, Karen L. (Clark) Matusak. He was a parishioner of the Oak Orchard Assembly of God Church. Juice enjoyed a very active social life. He was a proud, active and longtime member of Council #651, Knights of Columbus in Medina. Juice was an avid Buffalo Bills fan and enjoyed watching games with his family and friends. He also had a love for music. He will be dearly missed by his family and many friends.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 31 years, Karen Matusak of Middleport; son, Scott Matusak (fiancée Debra) of Lockport; stepsons, Darwin Poler and Eric (Kerry) Poler; step-grandchildren, Maxim and Stella Poler; brothers, Donald Matusak and Thomas Matusak; nephew, Andrew Matusak (Autumn); and great-nephew, Declan Matusak. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a brother, Richard Matusak; and sister-in-law, Jody Matusak.
Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, April 23 from 5-7PM, immediately followed by a service at 7PM at the Bates, Wallace & Heath Funeral Home, 38 State St., Middleport. Interment will be at a later date in West Ridgeway Cemetery. Share memories and condolences at www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.
Posted April 18 2025
Walter C. Wehling, Sr.
MEDINA – Walter C. Wehling, Sr., age 91, of Medina, NY entered into rest on Sunday, April 13, 2025.
Born November 4, 1933 in Medina, he was a son of the late Arthur C. Wehling, Sr. and Bertha M. (Laatsch) Wehling. Walter left school at an early age to help provide for the family. He went on to serve his country in the US Army from 1956-1958. Walter worked in the shipping department at FMC Corporation in Middleport for many years.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his first wife, Prudence (Pike) Wehling; second wife, Theresa Wehling; daughter, Donna Wehling; and siblings, Arthur Wehling, Jr., William Wehling and Esther Wehling.
Survivors include his daughter, Deborah Wehling of FL; son, Walter Wehling, Jr. of Medina; stepchildren, Michael (Delania) Waters, Mark Waters, Daniel (Sarah) Waters and Jason (Tammy) Waters; and several nieces and nephews.
Private interment will be in Bates Road Cemetery. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.
Posted April 18 2025
Randall L. “Randy” Miller
Posted April 17 2025
Mark B. Porter
HOLLEY – Mark B. Porter, age 54, passed away suddenly on April 15, 2025. Mark was born in Batavia on April 19, 1970, the son of the late Craig and Lynda (Booher) Porter.
Mark was a wrestling and baseball coach and attended all of Joshua’s and his grandchildren’s sporting events. Mr. Porter was a dedicated Firefighter, EMT, Past Chief and Commissioner of the Murray Joint Fire District. Mark served our community with unwavering courage, compassion and leadership. As a Firefighter, EMT, and Chief, he embodied the true spirit of service. Mark was employed at Monroe Ambulance’s communication center for 30 years, retiring in 2023. He was also a Sports Coordinator/Director for Joint Youth Recreation in 2012 as well as a village trustee from 2007 to 2011. Mark’s service expanded when he was elected to the Holley Central School Board where he willingly gave his time and talent to the students and staff of the district.
Mark was predeceased by his parents, Craig and Lynda Porter and sister, Kymberly Porter.
Mark is survived by his loving family, wife, Rose (McMillion) Porter, children, Jennifer (Matthew) Edmonds, Lori (Kyle) Vinciquerra, Joshua (Madilynn Schulte) Porter, loving grandfather to Maggie, Nolan, Connor, Carter, Olivia, sister, Karen Porter, and also survived by an aunt, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.
Mark’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 16650 State Route 31, Holley, NY, on Saturday April 26, from 3:00-7:00pm. Mark’s Funeral Service will be held on Sunday April 27, at 11:00am at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, Mark’s family would like donations to Murray Joint Fire District, 7 Thomas Street, Holley, NY 14470.
To share a special memory of Mark, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.
Posted April 16 2025
Charles Edward Van Orden “Buck”
ALBION – Charles Edward Van Orden “Buck” went home to the Lord on April 15, 2025. Charles was predeceased by his parents Florence and Edward Van Orden, daughter, Katie Marie Van Orden.
Charles is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Peggy Van Orden, son, Brian (Kenneth George) Van Orden, daughter, Valerie (Thomas Dunn) Garrett, special niece, Lauri (Tommy Rushing) Buzard, brothers, William (Gretchen) Van Orden and Phillip (Joanne) Van Orden, grandchildren, Tracy and Nathan Garrett, several nieces, nephews, cousins.
Family and friends are invited to attend Charlie’s interment with military honors on Tuesday April 22, at 11:00 at East Shelby Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Eagle Harbor Methodist Church.
Charlie’s arrangements have been entrusted to Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes 21 W. Avenue, Albion, NY
To share a special memory of Charles, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com
Posted April 14 2025
Kellie J. Staschak
Posted April 14 2025
Michael P. Szulis
Michael P. Szulis, 72, of Medina, NY, entered into rest on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at his home.
Relatives and friends may attend his graveside committal on Saturday, May 3rd, at 12 Noon at the St. Mary’s Cemetery, Rt. 63, Medina, NY.
Please light a candle or share a memory of Mike at www.bogantuttlefunerals.com
Posted April 13 2025
Joseph W. “Joe” Grabowski
BARRE – Joseph W. “Joe” Grabowski, 84, of Barre, NY, passed away peacefully at the United Memorial Medical Center, Batavia, NY, on Saturday, April 12, 2025, with his beloved wife and family at his side.
Born on November 29, 1940, in Medina, NY, he was the son of the late William and Mae (Witkopp) Grabowski.
Joe attended Medina High School, started working at Dresser Farms, and then went to work for the Orleans County Highway Department. He was elected Superintendent for the Barre Highway Department, from which he retired after 18 years of service. Lastly, he worked for Keeler Barre Stone Products, where he enjoyed operating the loader. Joe was a 48-year member of the Barre Volunteer Fire Company, and one of his favorite joys in life was eating breakfast at the restaurant and starting rumors.
Joe is survived by his wife of 60 years, Janice; two daughters, Christine (Mark) Maas and Julie (Brent) Kornow; two grandchildren, Miranda Merton and Kyle (Megan) Merton; two great-grandchildren that he loved dearly, Charlie and Brooklynn Merton; four sisters, Dorothy Keiffer, Betty Bush, Diane Riley and Candy Jones; two brothers, Donald (Cindy) Grabowski and Walter (Bonnie) Grabowski; a brother-in-law, Gary Harriman; and many nieces, nephews and two dear friends, Richard Bennett and Brian Neal.
Besides his parents, Joe is predeceased by his sister, Debra Grabowski; and three brothers-in-law, Robert Bush, Ronald Riley and Mike Jones.
Relatives and friends may call on Friday, April 18, 2025, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St. Medina, NY 14103, where a funeral service will be held on Saturday at 10 a.m. Burial will be private for the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Joe’s name to the Barre Volunteer Fire Company, 4709 Oak Orchard Rd, Albion, NY 14411.
Please light a candle or share a memory of Joe at www.bogantuttlefunerals.com.