Obituaries

MEDINA – Nancy L. Kurdziel, age 76, passed away peacefully on January 10, 2025 surrounded by her loving daughters. She was born in Medina on May 30, 1948, a daughter of the late Frank and Jean (Grimes) Marek, and had lived in Lyndonville and Medina all of her life.

Nancy graduated from LA Webber High School in Lyndonville, and as an alumna, enjoyed helping to plan class reunions, as she always looked forward to seeing her high school classmates and catching up with them. After high school, she attended Erie County Technical Institute for medical lab and lab tech studies and became a licensed practical nurse. Nancy worked for 38 years as an LPN serving the community at Medina Memorial Hospital—primarily on the North Wing. She took great pride in her work, appreciated her co-workers, and truly loved taking care of others and making them feel seen and special.

Upon retirement, Nancy was able to shift her focus even more to family and to her hobbies/ meaningful interests. She was very proud to come from such a large family, and prioritized keeping up with everyone’s special occasions, achievements, and helping to document them. She used every resource available to make beautiful photo albums that she would give as gifts so loved ones had physical memories to look back on and reflect. Her calendar was always marked with everyone’s birthdays, anniversaries, and special milestones so that she could promptly send cards in celebration.

Nancy married the love of her life, Bob Kurdziel, on February 7, 1970, and they enjoyed 48 years of marriage together. Gardening, vacationing in the Adirondacks, and supporting the Buffalo Bills were central shared pleasures; Nancy found comfort in continuing those activities upon losing Bob six years ago. She found great joy in passing time sitting outside on her patio: observing nature, feeling the sunshine, listening to her pond’s waterfall, and visiting with loved ones and neighbors. She also found pleasure in putting together jigsaw puzzles, doing crosswords, journaling, and collecting Peanuts memorabilia—especially anything featuring Snoopy.

Most importantly, she cherished spending time with her family. She adored her grandchildren, and absolutely spoiled them with her love: showering them with affection, gifts, and plenty of good food and treats was her favorite thing to do. She deeply loved her siblings and entire extended family and cherished every opportunity to gather and spend time together—especially when the gatherings were at the family farm, which is where she has always felt most at home and at peace. She will be greatly missed by all who loved her and those whose lives she so generously touched.

In addition to her parents, Nancy was predeceased by her loving husband, Bob; sister, Beverly Sargent; and father-in-law and mother-in-law, Edmund and Helen (Biernacki) Kurdziel.

She is survived by her daughters, Laurie (Dana Bentley) Kurdziel, Jill (Robb) Kurdziel Tillett, Susan Todd; grandchildren, Justin Kurdziel-Tai, Aaron Kurdziel-Tai, Billy Tillett, Oliver Tillett, Devin Galbreath, Ethan Galbreath; siblings Larry (Norva) Marek, Sandy (Glenn Skala) Marek, Scott (Tanya) Marek, Greg (Renee) Marek, Gary Marek, Brian (Tonna) Marek; brother-in-law, Frank Sargent; aunt, Joanne Grimes; as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, January 17th from 4:00pm-7:00pm at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 West Center St., Medina. Nancy’s Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, January 18th at 11:00am at Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church, Medina. Burial will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105. To share a special memory of Nancy, visit: www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

BYRON – Allen H.  Bilohlavek, age 75, died January 10, 2025 in United Memorial Medical Center in Batavia. He was born June 7, 1949 in Rochester to Henry and Doris (Thelen) Bilohlavek and was a life-long resident of this area.

Allen was a United States Army veteran of the Vietnam War and was a member of the Holley and Brockport VFW. He had worked for over 33 years at Owens Illinois in Brockport and belonged to the Brockport Elks Lodge.

Allen was an avid hunter, enjoyed fishing, motorcycle trips, playing cards…especially Euchre, bowling and was a man who could build or fix anything. Allen was very family oriented, had a great sense of humor and had a nickname for everyone. He will forever be remembered as a “Wise-Ass” by his loving family.

Mr. Bilohlavek was predeceased by his parents, his daughter Tyanna Lutes, 4 sisters, 3 brothers and his beloved dog, “Connor”.

He is survived by his wife, Helen; his daughters, Robyn (Stephen) Schubmehl of Holley, and Alana (Kyle) Piccirilli of Waterport; his brothers, Ted (Sharon) Bilohlavek of Hilton, Hank (Linda) Bilohlavek of Holley, and Tim (Denise) Bilohlavek of NC; his sisters, Carol Hoadley of FL, and Kathy (Don) Batzel of North Chili; his sister-in-law, Janice Bilohlavek of Spencerport; his grandchildren, Keith (Kaitlyn), Alicia (Brendan), Stephen (Allyson), Bailey (Lyndsey), Deanna (John), Corbin and Alexander; 2 great-grandchildren, Karsen and Kennadi as well as many nieces, nephews and his “little Girl” Ruby.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 16650 State Rt. #31-Holley, on Thursday, January 16, from 4 to 6 p.m. where a time to share memories will occur at 6 p.m. following visitation. Military Honors will immediately follow the sharing time.

Private interment will be held at the convenience of the family.  In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to: St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN, 38105.

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

MEDINA – Peggy Luxon, formerly of Medina, NY passed away at home on Wednesday, January 8, 2025 following a long illness.

Born May 28, 1943 in Akron, she was a daughter of the late Henry G. and Gladys L. (Klawer) Morgan.

Peggy graduated from Medina High School Class of 1961. Soon after, she married the late Leslie E. “Edgar” Luxon. Peggy was employed at Harrison Radiator Division of GM in Lockport for over 30 years. She enjoyed shopping and conversing with people. Most of all she enjoyed spending time with her family.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Edgar Luxon in 2002; son, Byron Luxon in 2022; and brothers, Harry Morgan and Archie Morgan.

Left to cherish her memory are her two sons, Darryl (Cathy) Luxon and Leslie T. Luxon (Colleen Pepper); grandchildren, Brittany, Rebecca, Scott, Adam, Jonathan, Angelina Luxon and Olivia Weller; four great-grandchildren; sister, Joan Fearby; and nephew, Michael (Lynn) Fearby.

Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, January 14, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Her funeral service will immediately follow at 1 p.m. Private burial will be in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, Shelby. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

KENT/HAMLIN – Shirley A. Campbell passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 9, 2025, at the age of 78.

She was predeceased by her parents, Franklin and Helen; her son, Douglas Campbell and brother, David Miller.

She is survived by her loving husband of 61 years, David; son, Brian Campbell; granddaughter, Jessica (Hunter) Sharp; siblings, Debra (Tim) Stephens and Edward (Debbie) Miller; several nieces and nephews; her beloved fur babies, OC, Emmy and Gizzy; as well as many dear friends.

Shirley was the Past President of the Hamlin VFW Post #6703 Ladies Auxiliary. She was a tremendous cook and enjoyed bowling, but most importantly, Shirley cherished her time spent with family.

Family will receive friends on Wednesday, January 15, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Fowler Funeral Home Inc. 340 West Ave., Brockport where a funeral service will follow at 7 p.m. Interment will be held at a later date. Those wishing may contribute to the Hamlin VFW Post 6703, 1739 Lake Rd., Hamlin, NY 14464 in Shirley’ s memory.

ALBION – Richard H. Newbould, age 94, passed away on January 9, 2025. He was born on October 1, 1930, in the Town of Barre to the late Robert and Emma (Laraby) Newbould.

His family had lived in the area since the 1900s and it was no different for Richard. He was a U.S. Army veteran serving our country in the Korean War and was a member of the Sheret Post American Legion as well as being a lifetime member of the Albion Rod and Gun Club. He enjoyed fishing, collecting canning jars, and selling antiques at local flea markets.

Richard enjoyed spending time with his family. You often find him working in his barn on his lawnmowers and tractors.

Richard was predeceased by his wife, Shirley Newbould; his son, Robert Newbould; and several siblings.

Richard is survived by his sons, Ricky, Randy (Annette), and Ron Newbould; grandchildren, Richard, Billy, Cody, Amanda, Stacey, Brandie and Amber; great granddaughter, Sadie; as well as several nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 4 p.m. at the Albion Rod and Gun Club, 4535 Lime Kiln Rd, Albion, NY 14411.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a memorial contribution in Richard’s memory may call the Nation Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 1-877-4AID-VET to be connected to VA services.

Richard’s arrangements have been entrusted to Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home in Albion. To share a special memory of Richard, please visit, www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

ALBION – Shirley A. Narburgh, 79 of Albion passed away on January 7, 2025, at RRH, DeMay Living Center in Newark, NY.

Shirley was born on February 22, 1945, in Albion, NY to the late Thomas and Edith (Miles) Forder.

Shirley was employed at 3M in Rochester for over 15 years and when they closed Shirley decided to attend college to obtain a degree. Shirley obtains a degree in Early Childhood Care from Genesee Community College in 1999.

Shirley enjoyed working with children and was employed by Little Leapers Childcare Center in Albion.

Shirley enjoyed baking, chocolate making and home-made Chex mix which she would give to her friends and neighbors. Shirley looked forward to attaining all of her events with her graduating classmates of 1963. Shirley would donate school supplies and stuffed animals to the local charities such as Rainbow Preschool and Community Action. Shirley had a love for animals by always having a cat or a dog.

In addition to her parents, she is predeceased by her siblings, Richard David Forder, George Thomas Forder and Donna Forder Yiengst.

Shirley is survived by her sons, Ronald (Kristina Gers) Narburgh, Timothy (Mary Ellen Cammarono) Narburgh and siblings Susan Polisoto of Albion, Sandra Smith of Georgia. Shirley has several nieces and nephews.

Services for Shirley will be held privately at Mt. Albion Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in Shirley’s name may be made to Arc GLOW 64 Walnut St. Batavia NY 14020 or PAWS 3371 Gaines Basin Rd. Albion, NY 14411.

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

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

LYNDONVILLE – Joyce Dean (Walton) Beatenbough, age 95, passed away January 4, 2025, at United Memorial Medical Center in Batavia after a brief illness. She was born May 23, 1929 in Laurel, MS to the late Clarence and Edna (Williams) Walton.

Joyce was a creative person who enjoyed exploring new experiences and activities throughout her life. She sewed, spun yarn, and wove many beautiful things. She drew, painted and made pottery. She loved classical music. She collected and refinished antique furniture. She entertained friends, explored new recipes and wine and played Bridge. She and her late husband, Paul, traveled the world sightseeing, birdwatching and experiencing concerts and the theater. But she most enjoyed being at home with her gardens, her cats, her books and the Lake.

Joyce was a member of the Tuesday Club, Weavers Guild of Rochester and longtime Master Gardner. She and Paul were both members of Countyline Country Church.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband Paul on July 9, 2024, and siblings Clarence Eugene Walton and Marjorie Earl Owens.

Joyce is survived by her children, Deborah Joyce (G. Ronald Payne) Beatenbough, David Walton Beatenbough.

There will be no formal service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Save a Pet, P.O. Box 114 Newfane, NY 14108, Hospice of Orleans 14080 Route 31 Albion, NY 14411, Lee Whedon Memorial Library 620 West Ave, Medina, NY 14103, or County Line Country Church P.O. Box 202 Barker, NY 14012

Joyce’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Cooper Funeral Home 215 West Center St. Medina, NY 14103.

To share a special memory of Joyce, visit: www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Services will be held in the spring.

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

Gary loved his dogs.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

She was predeceased by her husband, Rupertito Soto.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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