Obituaries

BROCKPORT – Raymond Eugene VandeBogart, 90, of Brockport passed peacefully at Hildebrandt Hospice Care Center on April 6.

Raymond is predeceased by his wife Marilyn and 6 siblings.

He is survived by a son Steven (Renna) VandeBogart of Florida and his son, Clayton (Shaunie) VandeBogart, and grandchildren Raina and Aria VandeBogart, daughter Tammy (Greg) Smith of Brockport, and her children Janelle (Matt) Hennard, Kelly (fiancée Kacey Sauer) VandeBogart, Courtney (Seth) Deeren, and grandchildren Gavin and Noah Hennard, Julian and Jonathan Sauer, and Wyatt and baby girl (due in July) Deeren, Brother Jan (Janice) VandeBogart, sister Judy (Dave) Demers, and sister-in-law Cindy (Jim) DeTar as well as several nieces and nephews.

Ray will be remembered as a quiet, kind man who was always up for a good laugh. Family members will see Ray at the top of a mountain, in a calm lake, whenever they see a sailboat or hear a loon. As an avid nature lover, Ray spent many summers at the family cabin in Inlet, NY on Limekiln Lake. He would often wake with the sun and take the kayak, loaded up with a camera and his beloved cocker spaniel, Heidi, out on the lake for a morning paddle.

Aside from his love of the outdoors, Ray also enjoyed watching Nascar races and learning about computers. Truly a lifelong learner, he was always learning new things.

A handy man at heart, Ray worked for Brockport Central School as the head of maintenance for 38 year. Between his childhood, growing up as one of 9 kids in rural New Hampshire and working on the neighbors farm, and his time working in maintenance, there was nothing Ray couldn’t fix or learn to fix.

Ray was a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and served overseas in the Korean war. Upon returning to the states he met his wife Marilyn in California where they lived before returning to Marilyn’s hometown of Brockport. After retiring, Ray and Marilyn moved to Port Orange, FL. where they lived for 17 years before returning to New York to be closer to family. During his time living in Florida, Ray enjoyed building and racing RC sailboats with a local sailing club.

Ray spent the last 2 years at Evergreen in the memory care facility. The family would like to thank those who took extra special care of him and loved him as much as his family did.

Ray prearranged for his body to be donated to the University of Rochester. In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Ray’s honor to Hildebrandt Hospice Care Center via rrhgive.org and selecting rrh Hildebrandt Hospice Care Center Fund in the gift designation drop down.

The family will host a celebration of life to be announced at a later date.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Fowler Funeral Home, Inc.

SHELBY – Jean Carol “Jeanne” Fuller, 80, of Shelby, NY, passed away after a brief illness on Sunday, April 7, 2024, at the Hospice of Orleans, Albion, NY.

Born on May 5, 1943, in Batavia, NY, she was raised by the late Randall and Georgeanna Allen.

Jeanne graduated from Oakfield-Alabama High School in 1962. She worked for 30-plus years and never missed a day due to sickness at the former Specialized Printed Forms in Caledonia, NY. She married Thomas Fuller on May 27, 1978, and they owned and operated Tom & Jeannes Family Restaurant for nearly 20 years. She enjoyed baking pies, gardening, and organizing family events in her spare time.

Jeanne is survived by her husband of 45 years, Thomas Fuller; two step-sons, Randy (Chrissy Palisano) Fuller of Medina, NY, and Brian (Lindsay Fiddler) Fuller of Erie, PA; two granddaughters, Alexandra and Gabriella Fuller; siblings, Gary (Janie) Bauer, Don (Maryann) Allen, David (Carol) Allen and two sister-in-law’s Connie and Marylou Bauer. Also surviving are her brothers and a sister-in-law, Alroy (Gail) Fuller, Charles “Huck” Fuller, John Fuller, Gordy Fuller, and CeCe Wilson, and two special nieces, Michelle (Bob) Grazioplene and Jennifer (William) Wilson.

In addition to her parents, Jeanne is predeceased by two brothers, Richard and Ralph Bauer, and her sister, Shirley Sheelar.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Hospice of Orleans and their staff for the care given to Jeanne.

There are no calling hours. A private service will be held at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Jeanne’s name to the Richard Knights-Sue Kaderli Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 684, 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 Jeanne at www.bogantuttlefunerals.com.

Raymond H. Martin, Sr., passed away at his home on Tuesday, April 2, 2024.

Ray was born on December 27, 1936 in Cambria, NY, a son of the late Norman and Ruth (Abt) Martin. He was employed as a steelworker at Simonds Saw & Steel Co. in Lockport for 29½ years. Ray was an avid hunter and horseman.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his longtime partner, Audrey Brigham in 2013; and two brothers, Jimmy Martin and Jerry Martin.

Left to cherish his memory are his children, Kenny Martin, Russell Martin, Linda Martin, Raymond Martin, Jr., Timothy (Sarah) Brigham, Ann (Willie) Gottenberg, Tina (Scott) Kelley and Dean (Shelly) Brigham; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; his brother, Gordon (Joan) Martin; and several nieces and nephews.

Per Ray’s wishes there will be no funeral services. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

LYNDONVILLE- Bessie N. Pritchard, age 99, entered into rest on Saturday, March 30, 2024.

Born August 11, 1924 in Lyndonville, NY, she was a daughter of the late Elwyn and Florence (Grimes) Woodworth. Bessie grew up on the Alps Road and graduated from Lyndonville High School. She married the late Harry Pritchard in 1946. Bessie was a parishioner of the Grove United Methodist Church in Medina.

Bessie was predeceased by her husband, Harry Pritchard in 1982; and siblings, Bertha, Grant, Roger and Clare Woodworth.

Survivors include her sister, Maxine (late Roger) Millirons of Williamsburg, VA; brother, Charles (Rosanna) Woodworth of Englewood, FL; and many nieces and nephews.

A private graveside committal will be held in Lynhaven Cemetery, Lyndonville at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Orleans at www.hospiceoforleans.org.  Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

Eugene C. Wanecski, of Medina, passed away on Wednesday, December 6, 2023 at the age of 87 at the Discover Commons South Biscayne in Northport, FL, where he resided briefly to be closer to family in his final days.

Born in Medina on December 1, 1936, he was a son of the late John and Ida (Waszak) Wanecski. Mr. Wanecski served in the U.S. Army as Sergeant First Class. On June 3, 1961 he married the former Nancy L. Bloom. Mr. Wanecski was well traveled, having had an extensive career as an overseas manufacturing engineer for Harrison Delphi Division of GM, retiring after 42 years. He was an active parishioner of the former Sacred Heart of Jesus RC Church in Medina and was also a member of the Sacred Heart Club and Butts-Clark Post #204, American Legion. Mr. Wanecski had a gift for woodworking and was a true outdoorsman.

Mr. Wanecski was predeceased by his wife, Nancy Wanecski in 2003; his grandson, Derrick Wanecski in 2023; siblings, Stanley Wanecski, Walter Wanecski, Florence Banazwski, Rita Mazur and Helen Zelazny.

Survivors include his sons, Jerome (Bridget) Wanecski of Myakka City, FL and John (Casey) Wanecski of Lakeworth, FL; grandchildren, Blake (Jenny), Brandi (Adam), Emily, Austin and Jessica (Sal); great-grandchildren, Reece and Elodie; and several nieces and nephews.

SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT: Calling hours will be held on Saturday, April 13 from 10am-12pm with his funeral immediately to follow at 12pm at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Interment will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

Lucy Violet Burch was reunited in heaven with her mother, Agnes Chraston; her son, Wally; and grandson Jimmy “Ray Ray” on March 28, 2024, after a brief illness.

Born on February 19, 1952, she enjoyed spending time with her family and friends and cooking for everyone. She was an avid collector of pigs and was well known for having many different pets.

In her spare time she enjoyed bird watching, reading, crocheting, going to garage sales, and going to Niagara Falls.

Lucy was a foster parent in Orleans County for over 40 years and will be remembered for her boundless sense of humor and ability to help others.

Lucy is survived by her husband of 36 years, James Burch; her children, Angela, Penny, Christopher (Misty), Samantha (Jenn), Scott (Amy), Cheryl, and a son-in-law, Charles.

Lucy is also survived by five brothers, Frank (Laura) Chraston, Rick (Patti) Chraston, Bill Carter, Ron (Sherri) Chraston and Louie (Toni) Chraston and three sisters, Diane Baker, Mary Carter, and Karen Castrechino; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and four stepchildren, Tammy, Dawn, James Jr. and Timmy, and several very dear friends who were like family.

As per Lucy’s wishes, there are no calling hours or funeral. A Celebration of Life will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, April 13, at the Sacred Heart Club, 189 N Gravel Rd, Medina, NY 14103.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Lucy’s name to Hospice of Orleans County, 14080 Rt 31, Albion, NY 14411.

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 Lucy at www.bogantuttlefunerals.com.

ALBION – Grace Irene (Walburn) Kennedy, born April 7, 1938, passed away March 29th just days before her 86th birthday, from a long undetected illness.

Rochester General Hospital’s staff treated our Mom with dignity and respect during her short time with them.

She was predeceased by her parents, Edward and Dorothy (Purcell) Walburn; and a sister, Mary Jane.

Grace is survived by her son, Michael Kennedy of Albion; daughters, Connie (Keith) Wells of NC, Bonnie (Daniel) Berry of Romulus and Kathy Grimes of Waterport; 8 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

Grace was a loving mother and grandmother. She had that Walburn spunk with a corky sense of humor that made people laugh. She loved singing off-tune “Country Road” to her friends. Eating, cooking and canning were a few passions of hers. Her other passions were working in her vegetable/flower garden and watching WWW and recording all the Main Events. She enjoyed feeding birds and watching them at the bird feeder…this gave her great pleasure. Hummingbirds were her favorite bird.

There will be no calling hours and her service and interment will be held privately at the convenience of the family in Hartland Cemetery, where she will join her parents in eternal peace. Grace’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home of Albion. To share a special memory of Grace, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Robert L. “Bob” Bane, 76, of Lyndonville, NY, passed away at the Batavia Veterans Hospital on Wednesday, March 27, 2024.

He was born on October 2, 1947, in Lockport, NY, the son of the late Howard and Laura (Tanner) Bane.

Bob graduated from Lyndonville High School and enlisted in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. On returning home, he married the late and former Sharon Hofert. Together, they made their home in Lyndonville and raised four daughters. He owned and operated Bane’s Plumbing for 45 years until his retirement. He enjoyed hunting, lifting weights, and caring for his property.

Bob is survived by his daughters, Terri Bane of Lyndonville, NY, Maribeth Bane of Akron, NY, and Bobbi Bane of Batavia, NY; eight grandchildren, Kayla Cuadra of Florida, Joseph Cuadra of Lockport, NY; Alex and Peyton Plummer, both of Medina, NY; Jamison Murphy of Batavia, NY; Laura Jones of Illinois; Shauna Jones and Bentley Benedict, both of Akron, NY. Also surviving are many nieces, nephews, and cousins, a good friend, Ruthann Kleinhans, and all his friends at the Batavia Veterans Hospital.

In addition to his parents and wife, Bob is predeceased by his siblings, John, Howard, Herbert, Clara, Loretta, Shirley, and Arnold, a daughter, Cherie Bane, and an infant grandson, Ethan Jones.

There are no calling hours. A private service will be held at the convenience of the family.

Memorials may be made in Bob’s name to any veterans service organizations of one’s choice.

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 Bob at www.bogantuttlefunerals.com

MEDINA- Barbara Y. Caldwell, of Medina, went to be with her Lord on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. She passed peacefully surrounded by her family.

Barbara was born in Lockport on May 25, 1937, a daughter of the late Arthur Ackerman and Pauline (Penwright) Ackerman Lute. On June 16, 1956 she married George L. Caldwell at the United Methodist Church in Medina. The couple were married for 53 years.

Surviving are her children, Teresa (Joe), Michael (Paul) and Steven (Sharon); her sister, Joanne Stanton; many nieces, nephews and cousins; special friends, Beverly Harrington and Sally Wilson. She was predeceased by her husband, George on November 7, 2009; sister, Betty Jones; brothers, Gary and Donald Ackerman; stepfather, David Lute; mother in-law, Alice Peters; and special aunt, Eleanor Penwright.

Barbara was the owner and operator of Medina Realty and later was a sales representative for Metropolitan Life Insurance Co., until her retirement in 1977. Barbara loved the Thousand Islands and enjoyed many years in Clayton, NY. She enjoyed knitting and gifted many afghans to family and friends and donated them to the Senior Citizens of Western Orleans for 16 years. She especially loved her children, who were also her special caregivers when she was ill. Thank you to all of them.

A special thank you to the caring staff at the North Wing SNF at Medina Memorial Hospital. They are very compassionate people who help residents at the end of their journey and the family members who visit them. Thank you to Pam and Stephen for listening and encouragement. Special thank you to Lori, you quietly held mom’s hand and all your kindness gave us more time to be with her in her final weeks.

An hour of visitation will be held on Friday, April 5 from 12:30-1:30PM at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Her funeral service will immediately follow at 1:30PM and interment will be next to her husband in Boxwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a charity of one’s choice. Please share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

ALBION – Raymond L. Turner age 76, passed away unexpectedly on March 16, 2024, at his home.  He was born June 2, 1947 in Jesup GA, a son of the late Roy and Cleotha (Hill) Turner.

Ray worked for the Union Local 517 in Orlando FL.

In Addition to his parents he was predeceased by his son Dwight Lagree and brother Willie James Turner.

He is survived by his companion of 30 years, Julie Powell; his children Veronica (Terrance) Johnson, Ray (Savarcia) Turner Jr, Fabian (Beatrice) Blakley, Denzel Young, Darnell Young, Rodney Turner; siblings Charles (Patricia) Jackson Jr, Earnest Jackson, Juanita (Vernon) Scott, Bobby Lee Jackson; aunts Maxine Hamilton and Lily Bell Spellman; 11 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren as well as a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, 21 W. Ave. Albion on Thursday March 28th from 11:00am-1:00pm.  His burial will take place after calling hours at Mt. Albion Cemetery.

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

MEDINA – Debbie L. Bloom, 63, of Medina, NY, entered into rest on Monday, March 25, 2024, at the Orchard Manor Nursing Home.

She was born on August 1, 1960, in Brockport, NY, the daughter of the late Warren and Mary Jane (Draper) Hart.

Debbie enjoyed working on her 1965 Chevy Nova and racing it at the Motor City Rack Track in Lancaster, NY.  She enjoyed being outdoors, especially while hunting, fishing, ATV riding, and gardening. She was known for being a jokester.

She is survived by her husband of 35 years, Norman Bloom; six children, Sunshine, Jamie, Nicholas, Christina Heschke, Norman Bloom Jr., and Laquisha Bloom; thirty-plus grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. Her siblings, Warren Hart, Peggy Hart, Thelma Causyn, Bernice Clark, Marie, Anthony, Raymond, Edward, Maryanne Bloom, and many nieces and nephews, also survive.

Besides her parents, Debbie is predeceased by a daughter, Amanda; her husband’s parents, James and Edna Bloom; siblings Karen Hart, Phyllis Clark, David Hart, and Audrey Hart; and a grandson, Maceo Slade Poole.

Relatives and friends may call on Monday, April 1st. 2024, from 4-7 PM at the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St. Medina, NY 14103. A private service will be held at the convenience of the family.

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

MEDINA – Marsha A. Snyder, 75, of Medina, NY, entered into rest on Tuesday, March 26, 2024.

She graduated from Royalton-Hartland High School in 1966 and married the late David Lembke on February 3, 1968; together, they raised two sons. After David passed from a tractor accident, she married Donald Snyder in 1989. Marsha worked for several retail businesses in the area and was a dedicated caregiver to her husband and mother.

Marsha is survived by two sons, Todd (Alisa) Lembke of Bishop, CA, and Brian (Ann) Lembke of North Tonawanda, NY, a brother, Eric Litchfield of Barker, NY, an aunt, Caroline Novatney sister-in-law, Sharon Litchfield of Medina, NY, and a special nephew, Benjamin Litchfield. Several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends she considered family and many grand kitties and puppies also survive.

Besides her parents and husband, she is predeceased by three brothers, Ricky, Marty, and Blaine.

There are no calling hours. A graveside service at Mount Pleasant Cemetery will be announced in early summer.

Memorials may be made in Marsha’s name to the East Shelby Community Bible Church, 5278 East Shelby Road, Medina, NY, 14103 or 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 Marsha at www.bogantuttlefunerals.com

GASPORT – Keith L. Hale “Tiger”, age 58, died March 25th in Niagara Hospice following a long illness and surrounded by his loving family.  He was born February 17, 1966 in Lockport to Clarence and Velma (Chase) Hale and was a life-long resident of this area. 

Keith was a graduate of Royalton Hartland Central School, class of 1985 and then went on to be a Paramedic with Lasalle Ambulance Co./ Rural Metro Ambulance Service in Buffalo and then National Ambulance Co./Rural Metro Ambulance Service in Rochester.  He was a member of the Lockport Presbyterian Church, a former EMT and medic for the Central Orleans Volunteer Ambulance in Orleans County, a life member of the Terry’s Corners Fire Department, a life member of FASNY, a Life member of the WNYVFA, and a member of the Terry’s Corners/Wolcottsville Exempts. 

Tiger enjoyed playing poker, golfing, hunting watching movies and bowling however, his greatest enjoyment was his pride and joy, his daughter Karli. 

Mr. Hale was predeceased by his parents and siblings: Norma, Shirley, Diane and Ralph.

He is survived by his wife of 21 years, Brenda; his daughter, Karli; his siblings, Clarence (Pat) Stoddard, Terry Hale, CG Hale, Brian (Kari) Hale, Crystal Hale and Harold (Jen) Lockwood; as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends. 

The family will receive friends at the Terry’s Corners Fire Hall, 7801 Chestnut Ridge Road-Gasport, NY, 14067 on WEDNESDAY APRIL 3^rd, from 12-2 pm where his Funeral Service will be held following visitation beginning at 2 pm.  Interment will be in Huskey Cemetery immediately following the service.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Fire Department at the address above. 

Tiger’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Sherrie Bream Funeral Home of Gasport. 

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

MEDINA – Owen P. Toale, Jr., age 76, lost his battle with cancer on Monday, March 25, 2024.

Owen was born on February 6, 1948, in Washington, DC, a son of the late Teresa (Fabrizio) Toale and Owen P. Toale, Sr.

In 1967, Owen entered the military and served in the U.S. Air Force in Thailand. Later, while stationed at Hancock Field in Syracuse he met his wife, the former Janice Stark. They moved to Medina in 1974 where he worked as a manager of W.T. Grants before moving into advertising at the Journal Register. Owen would later become the General Manager for the Journal Register, finding his passion for two things here, the paper and the Village of Medina. Owen served on many village committees over the years and served as a Village Trustee for several years.

Following active duty in the Air Force, he joined the Army Reserves based in Medina, where he served as an instructor. Owen loved giving back to his veteran community. He volunteered as a driver with the Orleans County Joint Veterans Council, taking veterans to their appointments and later spent time working in the office when he could no longer drive.

Owen was an avid golfer and enjoyed being out on the course whenever he had the chance. He was a proud member of the hole-in-one club which he earned on July 13, 2019 at Hickory Ridge.

Owen is survived by his wife of 51 years, Janice Toale of Medina; two sons, Benjamin Toale of Colorado and Andrew (Ryan) Toale of Medina. They have three wonderful grandchildren, who brought endless joy and excitement to Owen’s life, Zachary (age 14) and Stevie (age 10) of Colorado and Noah (age 12) of Lockport; siblings, Thomas Toale, Kevin (Jenny) Toale, Christopher (Nezie) Toale, Teresa (Donald) Meanor and Kathleen Owen and Mary (Michael) Brown.

He was predeceased by his parents; brothers, Patrick and Michael Toale; nephew, Tyler Toale and beloved aunts, Mary McCarthy and Angie Fabrizio.

Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, April 2 from 4-7PM at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. His Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, April 3 at 11AM at Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church, 211 Eagle St., Medina. Interment with full military honors will follow in the WNY National Cemetery in Pembroke.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Orleans County Joint Veterans Council- Van Service, 13996 Rt. 31 West, Albion, NY 14411. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

Megan J Hennekey. Born April 21, 1979, and passed away unexpectedly on March 16, 2024.

Megan was blessed with a big, beautiful heart and an infectious laugh. She always loved spending time with family and friends. In her presence, others couldn’t help but to laugh with her silliness. She was beautiful inside and out and would light up a room. Megan was kind, smart, lovable and caring. These qualities made her an excellent mother, daughter, sister, and nurse. Everything Megan touched was done with unconditional love. This was evident through her relationships with family, friends, coworkers, and patients.

As a young girl, Megan was musically inclined. She could pick up any instrument and start playing. She had a love for sports and loved playing softball and soccer. Megan graduated from Roberts Wesleyan College with a degree in BSN RN. Nursing was her passion and took pride in caring for others, especially the most difficult cases. She loved the emergency room at Unity Hospital. Through Covid, she worked in telemedicine and saved a man’s life in NYC. Due to this, she received high honors and was sent to Connecticut to describe this event in a town hall address across the nation.

Megan’s greatest moment was the birth of her daughter Ava. She loved her so much and showed her off to everyone. Ava was her world and her whole heart.

Megan is predeceased by her Uncle John Wais, grandparents Alan and Eva Wais, Jack and Joan Hennekey and her best friend Mia Guzman.

Megan is survived by her daughter Ava Hennekey, mother Diane Hennekey, father Thomas (Stacy Lynaugh) Hennekey, sisters Carrie (Juan) Rodriguez, Lauren (Casey) Ault, nephews Julian, Jon, Gage, Casey and nieces Lillian and Audriana. She had many close friends – so many to name.

HOLLEY – Elizabeth “Betty” Passarell, age 84, passed away March 24, 2024 at her home.  She was born May 28, 1939 in the Town of Murray, a daughter of the late Harry and Amelia Bower and had lived in this area all of her life.

 Betty was a lifetime member of St. Mary’s Church in Holley. She was an avid New York Yankees fan and enjoyed going to Sams Diner with her friends.  She worked as a food manager at Arnold Gregory Memorial Hospital for many years. Most importantly; she loved spending time with her family.

 In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her partner Edward Salvator; daughter Margo Passarell; siblings Paul Bower, William Bower, Edwin Bower, Harry Bower, Mary DeLuca, Louise Spencer, George Bower.

 Betty is survived by her children Robert (Richard Grybos) Passarell, Louise Passarell, Jeffery (Nancy) Passarell, Cindy (Keith) Oliver; grandchildren Brooke, Josh, Katie, Chris, Charlie, Brian, Danielle, Taylor, Sam, Rachel, Morgan, Liz; great-grandchildren Owen, Enzo, Violet, Peter, Cal, Karis, Natalie, Tunde; sisters Margaret VanAernum, Virginia DiLaura as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins. 

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, 16650 State Rte. 31 Holley on Monday April 1^st from 4:00pm-7:00pm.  Her Mass of Christian will be held Tuesday at 10:00am at St. Mary’s Church, Holley.  Burial will be in Holy Cross Cemetery at the convenience of the family.  Memorials may be made to St. Mary’s Church, 9 South Main St., Holley NY 14470 or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN 38105.

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

MEDINA-Richard J. Siedlecki, of Medina, entered into rest peacefully on Friday, March 22, 2024.
Born April 7, 1933 in Medina, he was a son of the late Walter and Mary (Kluska) Siedlecki. A decorated Korean War Veteran, he served in the US Air Force from 1950-1954. Richard retired after a long and distinguished career with Niagara Mohawk. An avid golfer, he was a two-time club champion and Invitational winner at Shelridge Country Club.
Richard leaves behind his loving wife of 67 years, the former Mary Louise Ottaviano; two children, Cynthia (Joseph) Tretter of Akron and Andrew (Rose) Siedlecki of Lewiston; five grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.
“Grandpa Shakey”, as his family lovingly called him, was a man of faith and integrity; faithful to his wife and his church and committed to his family and many friends. We pray in Jesus’ name that he is now happily reunited in eternal glory with his mother, Mary, father, Walter, and loving brother, David, smelling the dewy, freshly cut morning grass and draining long birdie putts to his heart’s content. Save us a spot, Dad.
His Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Sat. June 1 at 10AM at Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church, 211 Eagle St., Medina. A graveside committal with full military honors will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery Mausoleum. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

ALBION- Helen “Anita” (Grimm) Shafer, peacefully passed away on March 24, 2024. She was born December 6, 1934 in Washington DC and adopted by the late Albert and Mildred (Haines) Grimm.
Anita was a 1952 graduate of Albion High School, loved to do volunteer work and help people in need in our community. She was also a very active member of TWIG at Medina Memorial Hospital. Anita enjoyed knitting baby blankets and outfits for countless children in her spare time. She helped run the fundraising campaign to restore the chapel roof at Millville Cemetery.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband Robert Shafer Sr. in 2022, brother Richard Grimm and niece Gretchen Grimm.

Anita is survived by her daughters, Karen (Bruce) Rutherford, Jan (Bill) Whetstone, Julie (late Lou) Santos, Sandee (Don) Lepkoske, children of Robert Sr., Robert Shafer Jr., Bonnie Shafer, Jackie Woolbright, grandchildren, Tricia Young, Troy (Danyell) Lepkoske, Matt (Nicole Nawotka) Wilkins, Rob (Greg Johnson) Santos, Amber (Dan) Ryan, Nick (Bethany) Lepkoske, Jennah (Chris) Johnson, Jay Lepkoske, special granddaughter, Mikayla Heitzenrater, great- grandchildren, Adriana, Ben, Hailey, Ava, Austin, Brookelyn, Jason, Hannah, Abbie, Lily, Koen, Jaxon and Renley, sister, Bonnie (Dr. Robert) Weisberg, sister-in-law, Suzanne Grimm as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

There are no prior calling hours. Anita’s graveside service will be held at Millville Cemetery on Friday, March 29th at 11:30am.

Memorial contributions in her name may be made to Hospice of Orleans 14080 Route 31 Albion, NY 14411, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105 or the Make a Wish Foundation 1702 E. Highland Ave., Suite 400 Phoenix, AZ 85016.

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

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

ALBION – Robert E. Bracey, passed away on Wednesday, March 20, 2024 at the Martin-Linsin Hospice Residence in Albion.

Born at home on March 16, 1941 in Medina, he was a son of the late Ernest J. and Sophie J. (Domoj) Bracey. Mr. Bracey graduated from Medina High School in the class of 1958. Shortly after, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force serving from 1958-1962. On September 28, 1963 he married the former Joanne Majeski and the couple have resided in the Medina area ever since. Mr. Bracey worked as a truck driver for Harrison Radiator Division of GM in Lockport. He retired in 1992 following 30 years of service. Mr. Bracey was a lifelong parishioner of Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church in Medina. He was also an exempt member of the Shelby Volunteer Fire Co. and belonged to the Junior Wilson Sportsmen’s Club.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother, Charles (Carol) Bracey and sister, Harriet (Robert) Draper.

He is survived by his wife, Joanne Bracey; sons, David (Nancy) Bracey and Douglas (Karen) Bracey; sister, Mary Jane Frederick; grandchildren, Ryan Bracey, Timothy Dunham, Brian (Alissa) Dunham and Emily (Brent) Christiansen; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the caring staff at the Martin-Linsin Residence and to the “Old Shelby Boy’s Club”.

His Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, March 25 at 11AM at Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church, 211 Eagle St., Medina. Interment with full military honors will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery. Flowers are gratefully declined. Memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Orleans at www.hospiceoforleans.org or to the Knights-Kaderli Memorial Fund, PO Box 684, Medina, NY 14103. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.