Obituaries

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Harold, please visit our floral store.

Larry was a great husband, father, uncle, great uncle, and a father figure to many who were graced by his presence. He was affectionately known to many as “Lar Bear”, especially close friends and family. He was funny and great with kids, and he would teach them things that they shouldn’t do. Larry worked for Bausch and Lomb as a maintenance electrician for many years. On his time off work, he would enjoy going to his cottage, watching Western and World War II movies, being a softball coach, and was a member of the Sacred Heart Club in Medina. He also loved tinkering on classic cars and had a Ford Model A he spent countless time on. Larry will be known for many things, but most of all how patient, kind, caring, and willing to help anyone. He lived for his family and being a provider for them.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother Clay Kraatz.

Larry is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 40 years, Janine, daughters Taramarie Kraatz, Katie (Kyle) Kraatz-Fox, Felicia (Kyle) Kraatz-Lemcke; grandchildren, Brielle and Brayden; sister Melane (John) Shuttleworth; brother-in-law, James Gunn, as well as many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and cousins.

Larry’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 16650 State Route 31 Holley, NY 14470 on Tuesday, March 25 from 1:00-2:00pm where his memorial service will follow at 2:00pm.

Memorial contributions in Larry’s name may be made to the American Heart Association PO Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692.

MIDDLEPORT -Patricia T. Dujenski, of Middleport, NY, passed away on Friday, February 28, 2025 at the Lockport Memorial Hospital following a brief illness.

Born August 1, 1941 in Medina, she was a daughter of the late Carl and Marian (Morris) Tuohey. Pat was a graduate of Medina High School, Class of 1959. She married the love of her life, Richard L. Dujenski on May 29, 1965. Mrs. Dujenski was employed as an administrative secretary at the Orleans-Niagara BOCES in Medina for 37 years. She was a parishioner of Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church in Medina. Pat was an avid reader, enjoyed going camping and spending time with her family and friends. Following retirement, she and her husband, Dick, enjoyed spending many years as snowbirds, living half of the year in Port Charlotte, FL.

Survivors include her beloved husband of nearly 60 years, Richard Dujenski; brother in-law, Eugene Monacell; nieces and nephews, Jamie (Robert) Rivers, Carl (Jean) Tuohey, Charles (Kim) Tuohey, Craig (Molly) Tuohey, Timothy, Tracy and Todd Tuohey, Jan (Scott) Schickling and Kimberly (Timothy) McPherson; former sister in-law, Dorcas Tuohey; several great and great-great-nieces and nephews; and many good friends. In addition to her parents, Pat was predeceased by four siblings, Carl Tuohey, Maurice Tuohey, Mary Jane Cliff and Charmaine Wright; sisters in-law, Marcia Tuohey and Sally Monacell; and her beloved dog, Saydi.

Her Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, April 22 at 11AM at Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church, 211 Eagle St., Medina. Inurnment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of one’s choice. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

HOLLEY –  John Pera, age 71, passed away at his home on February 27, 2025. He was born February 20, 1954, in Brockport to John Pera and Dorothy Swanson.

John was proud to be a Vietnam Veteran, serving in the Navy from 1973-1977. He was a member of American Legion Jewell Buckman Post 529 and VFW Post 202 in Holley, serving as Post Commander for Post 529. He was proud to participate in the honors that each veteran received upon their passing. John worked as an electrician for Eastman Kodak for over 30 years before he retired. He was very active locally, spending time coaching youth hockey with the Tri-County Golden Eagles, and Scout Master with Troop 94 in Kendall. Whenever he had the time, he took his motorcycle for a ride and was an avid Harley Davidson enthusiast.

In addition to his father, he was predeceased by his loving wife Cindy in 2022 sisters Cheryl Listorti, Robin Pera and niece Kate Webster.

John is survived by his sons Thomas John (Dawn) Pera, John Anthony (Monica) Pera, mother Dorothy Barringer, grandchildren Johnny, Logan, Brianna, Wren, Nathan, great grandchildren, Alannah, Piper, sisters Marlene (Roy) Kenyon, Pamela Pera as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, numerous friends including Craig Lackner and John Gurnett.

There are no prior calling hours. John’s Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Mary’s RC Church 9 South Main St. Holley, NY 14470 on Monday, March 10th at 10:00am. John’s family will be present the same day at the Holley VFW, 8 Veterans Dr. Holley, NY starting at 3:00pm to continue the celebration of his life. Interment along with military honors will be held privately at Western New York National Cemetery in Corfu.

Memorial contributions in John’s name may be made to his family.

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

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

ALBION – Howard F. Smith, Jr., age 88, passed away unexpectedly on March 1, 2025 at United Memorial Medical Center in Batavia. He was born April 12, 1936 in Batavia to the late Howard F. Smith, Sr. and Helen (Williams) Smith.

Howard was proud to be a Marine and served his country for 10 years in the Korean War and Vietnam War. He worked for the Orleans County Nursing Home for many years before retiring in the late ’90s. Howard loved animals of all shapes and sizes.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his daughter, Candice Turner; grandchildren, Jennifer Martin and Michael Turner.

Howard is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Gail; children, Luann (Jeff) Young, Lisa Smith, Elizabeth (Daniel) Bezon, Duane Smith, Eric (Karen) Turner, Randy Turner and Sam Turner; 12 grandchildren; and 20 great-grandchildren.

There are no prior calling hours. Private interment will be held at Mt. Albion Cemetery. Memorial contributions in Howard’s name may be made to Hospice of Orleans, 14080 Route 31, Albion, NY 14411.

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

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

ALBION – Robert John Ord II, age 83, went to be with the Lord on February 26, 2025 surrounded by his loving family.

Robert was a devoted and loving husband, father, and grandfather who cherished his family.

He is survived by his wife of over 60 years, Vicky (James) Ord; his children, Amy Ord (husband Dr. Christopher Yelverton) of Pittsford, NY and Kerri Neilans (husband Scott) of Long Beach, CA; and his grandchildren, Emma Yelverton and Stephen Neilans as well as several nephews and nieces.

Robert was born August 11, 1941 in San Diego, CA to John and Hazel Ord. He grew up in Cherryvale, Kansas where he had fond memories of life on the family farm, playing sports, and good times with friends and neighbors in the community of Cherryvale. He graduated from Cherryvale High School in 1959. He then attended Ottawa University in Ottawa, Kansas where he continued to play college football. It was there that he met the love of his life, Vicky James. He graduated with a BA degree in 1964.

Robert and Vicky were married a few months later in Falconer, NY on August 1, 1964. He worked as a Teacher, Athletic Director, and Coach of various sports in Wellsville, Kansas before settling down in Albion to raise a family. Robert taught Physical Education and coached almost every sport in the school, most lengthy being Track and Cross Country, for over 25 years at the Albion Central School District. He also obtained his MS degree from the State University of New York at Brockport during this time.

Robert truly loved being a teacher and was honored to answer to the name of Coach when out in the community. He tremendously enjoyed helping students reach their full potential and goals. Also, Robert created and directed the Swan Run race for many years to benefit the local library, and volunteered with the Greater Rochester Track Club. Robert was also a member of the Masons Renovation Lodge #97 and Shriner’s International.

He was predeceased by his parents, John and Hazel; as well as his brother, Ronald Ord, and sisters, Carolyn Oliver and Joan Fulton.

He will be lovingly remembered by his loved ones, friends, and those whose lives he touched and deeply missed by his family.

Robert’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 21 West Ave. Albion, NY 14411 on Thursday, March 6, from 4 to 7 p.m. Private interment will be held in the Mount Albion Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Coach Robert Ord Memorial Scholarship Fund, c/o the Albion High School Alumni Foundation, PO Box 345, Albion, NY 14411.

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

MEDINA/LYNDONVILLE – Paris N. Adkins, age 19, passed away unexpectedly on February 26, 2025.

Paris was a loving, and caring young woman who loved spending time with family and working with children. She loved talking to her friends on the phone and listening to her favorite band, One Direction. She was a 2024 graduate of Lyndonville High School and just starting her life out.

Paris is survived by her family, adoptive grandparents James and Rosalee Adkins, biological mother and her father Jeremy Adkins, and her siblings Zoey, Alyssa, Adam and James, as well as several other family members.

A time to celebrate Paris’ life will be held at the Sacred Heart Club in Medina on Saturday, March 29th starting at 1:30 p.m.

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

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

ALBION – Thomas Joseph Richard, a beloved member of the Albion, NY community, passed away February 28, 2025. Born on December 24, 1943, to the late Roger and Ella Richard,

Thomas lived a life marked by service, dedication, and love for his family and friends.

Tom graduated from high school in 1961 and soon after joined the Navy, where he proudly served his country. During his time in the Navy, he was stationed on two submarines, the USS Grouper and the USS George C. Marshall, making lasting contributions and friendships. After his honorable discharge in 1969, Tom returned to his hometown of Albion. He began working at T.J. Lipton’s, where he was a dedicated employee until the company closed. Following this, he found joy and camaraderie tending bar at Gurney’s Old Coach Inn, where he was known as “Big Tom.”

Tom was predeceased by his father, Roger Richard; mother, Ella Richard; brother-in-law, Frederic Skalny; sister-in-law, Jennie Richard; and brother, Carl Richard.

He is survived by his siblings: Nancy (Blaine Sr.) Wirth, Mary Ann Skalny, Charles (Beverly) Richard and Steven Richard. Tom also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews as well as his beloved pet, Kat.

In accordance with Tom’s wishes, there will be no calling hours or service. His family and friends will remember him privately, cherishing the memories and the impact he had on their lives. Tom will be deeply missed by all who knew him. May he rest in peace.

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

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

SPRING HILL, FLORIDA – Jonathan Terry Judd, (Jonny) of Spring Hill Florida, died unexpectedly on February 25, 2025, at the age of 20 of a motorcycle accident.

Jonny is survived by his mother, Tracy Judd, brother Anthony LoGalbo, and Grandmother Cynthia Judd, aunts, uncle, and many cousins who all loved him dearly. He is predeceased by his father, James “Scott” Herman and his grandfather, Terry Judd.

Jonny was born in Medina, New York on April 28, 2004, to Tracy Judd and James “Scott” Herman. Jonny relocated to Spring Hill Florida September 2016 with his family. He graduated in 2023 from Central High School in Brooksville Florida and worked as a Service Technician at George’s Tire, in Spring Hill Florida.

As a child, Jonny enjoyed playing many sports which included being a second baseman in Little League Baseball, a football outside linebacker for the Albion Eagles, Nature Coast High School, Central High and enjoyed many years as a cub scout.

Jonny enjoyed playing video games, and above all, riding his motorcycle, or as he called it, his baby, which he bought himself in July 2024.

Jonny touched many peoples lives without even trying and will forever be remembered and loved.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 01, 2025, at 3:00 pm at Downing Funeral Home located at 1214 Wendy Court, Spring Hill, FL 34607.

MEDINA – Robert L. Dibble, 84, of Medina, NY, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Wednesday, February 26, 2025.

Born September 24, 1940 in Buffalo, he was a son to the late Lawrence and Myrta (Towne) Dibble. Growing up in Buffalo, Bob graduated from Kenmore West High School and furthered his education at Buffalo State College. He enjoyed a long career as the owner of Texas Prime Food Services, which he operated out of Houston, TX, where he lived for many years. Bob was an active member of the Elks Lodge in Lockport and also in Houston. He enjoyed many years boating at his family’s property on Black Lake. Bob was also an avid reader. He enjoyed cocktail hour and playing cards with his beloved fiancée and life partner, Sandra, whom he shared 32 years of love and companionship with.

Survivors include his fiancée and life partner, Sandra Hilger of Medina; his sister, Molly Anderson; Sandra’s children, Thaddeus J. (Nikkia) Grzywacz and Tammy (John) Parada; grandchildren, Nicole (Matt) Sanders, Brandon (Krystal) Grzywacz, Gage Masters, René Masters and Ava Grzywacz; great-grandchildren, Michael, Haydyn, Paysen, Brooklyn, Kinsley, Sophia and Colesen; nephew, Kevin Anderson; and niece, Kristen Andrews.

Per Bob’s wishes, there will be no formal funeral services. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations would be appreciated to the Lee-Whedon Memorial Library, 620 West Ave., Medina, NY 14103 or to PAWS Animal Shelter, 3371 Gaines Basin Rd., Albion, NY 14411. Share condolence at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

EAST SHELBY – Margaret A. Reigle, of East Shelby, passed peacefully in her sleep on Monday, February 24, 2025.

Born on February 14, 1944 in Medina, she was the daughter of the late Walter W. and Ethel (Green) Scharlau. A lifelong resident of the area, Margaret attended Medina High School. On March 13, 1960 she married the love of her life, Gordon R. Reigle and together raised a family of three children. A homemaker for many years, Margaret also went on to work at Fisher Price Toys, where she dedicated many years of service before retiring in 1999. In addition to her home and work life, Margaret was an active member of the East Shelby Fire Co. Ladies Auxiliary. In her free time, Margaret enjoyed crafting and creating beautiful pieces of art. She found great joy and fulfillment in expressing her creativity through various handmade projects. Margaret leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and creativity that will be cherished by all who knew her.

Left to cherish Margaret’s memory is her husband of 65 years, Gordon Reigle, with whom she shared many years of love and companionship. She was a devoted mother to her three children, Lisa (Harvey) Reigle-Cohen, Linda Reigle-Brower (George Ferner), and David (Bonnie) Reigle. Margaret also had the joy of being a grandmother to five wonderful grandchildren, Joseph Brower (Timothy Blank), Jeni Brower, Erin (Dan) Page, Becky Reigle (Chris Potalivo) and John Reigle (Kerry Rice); and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by three siblings, Walter (Barbara) Scharlau, Jean (Joel) Dingman and Shirley (Bill) Walters.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, Feb. 28 from 4-7PM at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Her funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 1 at 11AM at the funeral home. The Rev. Kim Smith will officiate. Interment will be in Millville Cemetery in the spring. Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association of WNY at www.alz.org/wny. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

BROCKPORT – Roberta McDonald, age 84, passed away peacefully on February 23, 2025. She was born on April 18, 1940, in Richland, Arkansas to the late Clayborne and LeAnna (Campbell) Jones. She has lived in the Albion area for over 61 years.

Roberta was the matriarch and a private woman; however, she enjoyed being with her family and attending church. She enjoyed baking for her family, especially her secret recipe for her butter roll. She mainly attended God’s Holy Temple in Brockport, though she would travel all over to other churches. Roberta worked hard as a factory worker for Bausch and Lomb to be able to achieve her dream of owning her own home.

In addition to her parents, Roberta was predeceased by her husband, Ernest McDonald Sr.; daughter, Helen Cheves; her sister, Lessie Mae Ellis; and her brothers, Arthur Jones and Clayborne Jones Jr.

Roberta is survived by her children, Diann Jones of Brockport, Carolyn Riley of Rochester, and Ernest McDonald Jr. of Rochester; brother, Arris (Carolyn) Jones, and a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, and even great-great grandchildren, along with nieces, nephews, and cousins.

There will be a Funeral service for Roberta at the Shiloh Judgement Free Church, 3286 Crandall Rd, Albion, NY 14411, on March 8, 2025, at 12pm. The interment will follow at Mt. Albion Cemetery, Telegraph Rd, Albion, NY 14411.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation in Roberta’s name may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, P.O. Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011.

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

OAKFIELD – John E. Swabb, Jr., age 68, passed away February 21, 2025 at United Memorial Medical Center in Batavia following a long illness. He was born April 14, 1956 in Batavia, a son of John E. Sr. and Jean (Spring) Swabb and had lived in this area most of his life.

John graduated from Albion High School in 1974. He enjoyed working on cars and had worked as a mechanic for several years, and after, drove truck for Kohorst Trucking.

He was predeceased by his wife, Deborah, in 2022.

In addition to his parents, John is survived by his sister, Julie (Keith) Norman; his brothers, Jim (Kathy) Swabb, Jerry Swabb; his step-son, Nathan (Amelia) Allen; step-daughter, Darcia Bailey; step-grandchildren, Anthony, Destiny, Makayla, Darrius and Natalie as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at the convenience of the family at a later date.  Memorials may be made to the organization of one’s choice.  Arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Albion.

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

ALBION – Marya F. Hinchey passed away peacefully on Monday, February 17, 2025, at the age of 85.

She is survived by her loving husband of 64 years, Peter; son, Franklin; daughter, Andrea (John) Unson; grandchildren, Ian and Abigail Unson; sister, Suzanne Kopler; stepbrothers, Gary (Kathy) Wolfer and Dale (Lois) Wolfer; as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Marya was predeceased by her sister, Shirley (Lynn) Lilly.

Marya graduated Fillmore HS in 1957, Harper Method Beauty Salon in 1958, Coiffures by Ben’ne, Owner/operator Marya’s Beauty Salon (1963-2001). Her hobbies were collecting antiques and gardening. Marya was a member of a Bible Study group in her neighborhood. She enjoyed bowling, flower gardening, and watching grandchildren do their sports.

Family will receive friends on Sunday, February 23, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Fowler Funeral Home Inc., 340 West Ave., Brockport, where her funeral service will follow at 3 p.m.

Interment will be held in Mt. Albion Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

ALBION – Jodi L. Fitch, age 58, passed away February 20, 2025 at Strong Memorial Hospital. She was born March 23, 1966 in Carthage, NY, a daughter of Donna (Carr) and the late Charles Rivers and had lived in this area for most of her life.

Jodi enjoyed camping and traveling with her husband Eric.

In addition to her mother Donna, she is survived by her loving husband of 37 years, Eric; her brother, Jeff (Karen) Rivers as well as 2 brothers-in-law, 2 sisters-in-law and her loving nieces and nephews.

Per her wishes, there are no prior calling hours or services. Arrangements were entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Albion.

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

Thomas A. “Tucker” Fuller, 81, of Shelby, NY, peacefully passed away at his home on Wednesday, February 19, 2025.

Born on September 30, 1943, in Medina, NY, he was the son of the late Wilbert and Edna (Harch) Fuller.

Tom attended Medina Schools and was a member of the class of ’62. That year, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and was stationed in Greenland as a Mechanic, where he learned to fix and drive anything with wheels. Upon returning home in ’66, he was employed with Kodak as a truck driver, which he retired from after nearly 30 years of service. Tom, along with his wife Jeanne, also owned and operated the former Tom and Jeannes Family Restaurant on Maple Ridge Rd. in Medina, NY, until its closing. He was also owned Tom Fuller’s Construction. In his spare time, Tom repaired lawnmowers. Tom loved horses and everything Western and was an avid John Wayne fan. He was also a lifetime member of the Shelby Volunteer Fire Department, where he served as past president.

Tom is survived by his three sons, Randy (Chrissy Palisano) Fuller of Medina, NY, Joe (Kristi Harp) Fuller of Youngsville, N.C., and Brian (Lindsay Fiddler) of Erie, PA, three granddaughters, Alexandra, Gabriella, and Ashleigh. Also surviving are his four siblings, Alroy (Gail) Fuller of Middleport, NY, Charles “Huck” Fuller of Medina, NY, John Fuller of Sanborn, NY, Cecilia Wilson of Tucson, AZ, two sisters-in-law, Vera and Pat Fuller and a brother-in-law, Ed Pray. And many nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, Tom is predeceased by his former wife, Jeanne Fuller, and the mother of his three sons, Patricia Fuller; siblings, Roger, Glenn, Norm, Jim, Jaydee, Gordy, Rosemary, Loretta, Mildred, and Catherine; and a granddaughter, Jamie.

The family would like to give a special thank you to Jennifer Wilson who was a major caregiver and godsend for Tom and the family.

There are no calling hours. A celebration of life will be held outdoors at the farm this summer at a time to be announced.

Instead of flowers, memorials may be made in Tom’s name to Richard Knights-Sue Kaderli Memorial Fund, P.O.Box 684, Medina, NY 14103, or to the Orleans County Joint Veterans Council, 13996 Route 31 West, Albion, NY, 14411.

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

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

MEDINA – Donald E. Palmer, of Medina, NY, entered into rest peacefully on February 19, 2025 at Buffalo General Hospital.

Don was born on February 22, 1943 in McKees Rocks, PA. He was a son of the late Earl and Mary (Pearce). He graduated from Lyndonville High School, Class of 1961 and continued his education at Canisius University, earning a bachelor’s degree. Don got more than a degree from his time at Canisius, as this is where he met his future wife, the former Karole Kurtz, whom he married on September 23, 1972. Don owned and operated a concession stand business for many years. He also worked in maintenance for the YMCA. Active in his community, Don was a member of the Ridgeway Volunteer Fire Co. He also belonged to the former Medina Lodge #336 F&AM and the Medina Moose Lodge. Don will be remembered by all who knew him for his unwavering sense of humor.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Karole Palmer; his son, Aaron E. Palmer, both in 2018 and his brother, Bob Palmer in 2016.

Don is survived by his son, Adam (Rachel) Palmer of Medina; grandchildren, Jacob and Joshua Palmer of Lockport and Oliver Palmer of Medina; sisters, M. Susan Hill of Albion and Laura (Bill) Burnett of FL; brother, James (Helen) Palmer of SC; several nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 25 from 4-7PM at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Don’s funeral will be held at the funeral home the following morning, Wednesday, Feb. 26 at 11AM. Interment will be in Bates Road Cemetery later in the spring.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations would be appreciated to the New York State School for the Blind, 2A Richmond Ave., Batavia, NY 14020 or the Visually Impaired Advancement of WNY at www.viawny.org/donate. Share memories and condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

KNOWLESVILLE – Mary Lee Knights of Knowlesville entered into rest on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at the Providence Regional Hospital in Everett, WA.

Born October 27, 1944, in Tupper Lake, NY, she was the only child of the late Louis and Frances (McDonald) Gourd and stepfather, Joseph “Corky” Arsenault.

Mary Lee was a graduate of Tupper Lake High School, Class of 1962 and went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from SUNY Potsdam and her master’s from The Ohio State University in 1969.

On August 19, 1972, she married the late Kenneth E. Knights. Together they raised a family of three children on Kniland Dairy Farms in Knowlesville. They were well known for growing and selling giant pumpkins every fall.

Mary Lee began her career as a guidance counselor and teacher for the Medina Central School District. Later, she and the late Marlene Maier co-founded Kniland Nursery School, where she helped nurture young minds in their earliest years. Once her children were in grade school, she worked part-time at the Medicine Shoppe before becoming the Coordinator of Religious Education at St. Mary’s Parish in Medina.

She also worked for BOCES and played a pivotal role in OCALS as a charter board member, where she served as past president, tutor, tutor trainer, GED tester and evaluator. In 2023, her dedication to literacy was recognized when she received the OCALS Lighting the Way to Learning Award. A woman of deep faith, she was a devoted parishioner in all aspects of Holy Trinity Catholic Parish, St. Mary’s Church in Medina.

Mary Lee was known by those close to her as a “professional volunteer,” always ready to lend a hand or support to whomever needed it. She was active in the Medina Jaycees, Sweet Adelines barbershop quartet, Beta Sigma Phi Sorority (since 1986), Catholic Daughters in both Medina, NY and Everett, WA, and was a member of St. Mary’s Choir.

A lifelong lover of swimming, she was a lifeguard in her youth, and in the 1980s, led a successful fundraising campaign as YMCA president to establish the Lake Plains School pool. She also played a key role in organizing the annual Medina Canal Festival as a committee member. Mary Lee found joy in music, her family, community, and the friendships she built through her many activities.

Her warmth extended to all living beings, especially animals, and she always had a canine companion by her side. In recent years, her beloved dog, Jessie, was her constant and devoted friend.

Mary Lee was predeceased by her husband, Kenneth, in 2021 and her dear aunt, Eileen “Nee Nee” Trombley, in 2019.

Left to cherish her memory are her three children, Chad (Randi) Knights of VA, Laura (Sean) Knights Riley and Fran (Stuart) Knights Sabin, both of Seattle, WA; four grandchildren, Skylar and Emerson Knights, Joseph and Kate Riley; and two sisters in-law, Kathryn Knights of Buffalo and Barbara Clark of Medina. She is also remembered with love by many dear friends who became like family, sharing in the joy of her life and the kindness she so freely gave.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, March 6 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, March 7 at 11 a.m. at Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church, 211 Eagle St., Medina. Interment will be in Mt. Albion Cemetery, Albion. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Medina Scholarship Fund, PO Box 185, Medina, NY 14103 or to PAWS, 3371 Gaines Basin Rd., Albion, NY 14411.

Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

ALBION – Dawn J. Parker, age 86, passed away February 18, 2025, at the Villages of Orleans.  Dawn was born February 4, 1939, in the Town of Gaines, a daughter of the late Rollin and Myrtie (Sholes) Clark.  She was a member of the Eagle Harbor Methodist Church and the Home Bureau.  Dawn was a former employee of Orleans County Department of Health.  Dawn enjoyed sewing, knitting, crocheting and taking rides with her husband Daniel, in the Model A Ford.

Dawn was predeceased by brothers-in-law and sister-in-law, Fred Parker, Earl Parker and Peggy Parker

She is survived by her loving husband of 56 years, Daniel, children, Karen (Dean) Neal, Kevin (Susie) Parker, Darlene (Barry Hildebrand) Hawes, 9 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, George (Alice) Vanderstow, Ned (Valerie) Parker, David Parker, Donna Parker and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Dawn’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 21 W. Avenue, Albion on Thursday February 27, from 2:00-5:00pm.  Her funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Friday February 28, at 2:00pm.  Interment will be in the spring in Millville Cemetery.

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