Obituaries

MEDINA – Allan J. Kropf, 91, of Medina died Thursday, March 20, at Medina Memorial Hospital, under care of Hospice of Orleans County.

A full obituary will be published at a later date. Arrangements are being completed by Burdette and Sanford Funeral Home, Oakfield.

ALBION – Robert D. Yiengst, age 62, passed away March 19, 2025, at Medina Memorial Hospital.

Robert was predeceased by the love of his life, Donna, in 2023.

Robert is survived by his children, Rebecca Yiengst and Jennifer Yiengst; stepdaughter, Mackenzie DeCarlo; his parents, Robert Yiengst and Jolene Laing; several grandchildren; sisters, Kippie Glosser and Christine Timmel; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Per Robert’s wishes, there will be no service.

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

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

ALBION – Jolynn Heard, a beautiful 65 years young, left her earthly body, peacefully at home on March 18th.

Jolynn was predeceased by her parents, Evelyn and Max Malachowski; her great-grandmother, Thelma Crawford; and her beloved aunts (Ginny Rankin, Betty Sides, Sheila Ball) and uncle (Junior Rankin).

She leaves behind the love of her life, Alan Heard. They enjoyed a 24-year marriage and although they found each other later in life, theirs was a love worth waiting for.

She also leaves behind two daughters, Faith Kiphut (Rick) and Jessica Martin, who she instilled strength, courage, independence, and kindness above all in. Her beloved brother, Glenn Marr (Wayne), always made sure his baby sister was loved and cared for. They were truly the best of friends and loved making the world beautiful together. A cherished cousin, Patricia Rankin (Denise) who spent many days caring for Jolynn and loved her like a sister. Her niece, Billie Jo Shernesky, was like a daughter to her. Four grandchildren (J. Annison, Ellis, Raelynn, and Hendrix) will be without their Mimi but have many, many wonderful memories to mend their hearts.

She leaves behind many friends who felt like family. If you needed love and support, she was the first to open her door and welcome you in. She always had a song to sing to make you laugh or warm your heart. She had a quick joke or a little dance to make you smile or the perfect piece of advice. She always made time for a chat to help clear your mind, or could just be there to listen. Jolynn was also an animal lover through and through and is now reunited with her Sadie and Sammy.

She will be missed dearly but will always be found in the rays of sunshine, the calm of the lake, and everything beautiful about this world.

She revered celebration over mourning and that is what those who loved her dearly will do in her honor.

Although flowers brought her so much joy, and she could make any space beautiful with a few flower arrangements, the family requests in lieu of flowers to please send a donation to Hospice of Orleans, 14080 Route 31, Albion NY 14411. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes in Albion.

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

MEDINA – Patricia A. “Patty” Morgan, of Medina, NY passed away peacefully on Monday, March 17, 2025, at the home of her daughter with family by her side.

She was born on March 8, 1952, in Medina, a daughter of the late John and Ann (Kelly) Wengrzycki. Patty’s most important job was caring for her family. In 1991, Patty moved to Florida, where she lived until 2017 when she moved back to Medina.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by the father of her children and good friend, Raymond “Pete” Morgan; son, Raymond “RJ” Morgan; son in-law, Steve Hibbard; and brother, John “Scotty” Wengrzycki.

Patty is survived by her daughter, Julie Hibbard (Brian Southcott) of North Carolina; grandchildren, Kyle Morgan, Justin Morgan (Shannon Stephenson), Scotty (Dhanni) Hibbard, Allison Hibbard (Grant Carpenter), Steven Hibbard (Alicia Alley); and daughter in-law, Karen Nashwenter, her three girls and their families. Patty also has six great-grandchildren, the most recent addition, Graicen, was the light of her life.

No prior calling hours will be held. Interment will be in Boxwood Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. In lieu of flowers, the family appreciates any donations in Patty’s memory to the Hospice of Orleans at www.hospiceoforleans.org or to PAWS Animal Shelter, 3371 Gaines Basin Rd., Albion, NY 14411. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

MINNEOLA, FL – Daniel M. Estes passed away November 15, 2024 at the age of 49, after a battle with illness. He was surrounded by loving family in Minneola, FL.

Danny was born in Medina, NY on November 8, 1975, he was the son of the late Horace G. Estes and Mary Ellen (Nice, Estes) Peruzzini. He graduated from Albion High School in 1994. He attended Genessee Community College where he played baseball. Danny’s love of sports never left him. He enjoyed attending games, talking about his favorite teams, or adding memorabilia to his extensive sports collection. He also enjoyed fishing, the outdoors and spending time with family.

In 1997 he moved to Central Florida with his family. The area was rapidly growing and he took up masonry construction, building schools, for twelve years. His contributions can be seen all over the Orlando area. He then worked for Global Warehousing Products, installing warehouse rack, all around the United States. He is known for his quality workmanship.

Dan is survived by his mother, Mary Ellen (Nice) Peruzzini, four brothers, Kerry Estes, R Scott Estes (wife Allyson), H George Estes and Joshua Estes (wife Miriam., nieces and nephews, Deana, Amanda, Erin, Morgan, Cheryl, and Brayden. Also survived by a large number of cousins from the Estes Family, Nice and Nesbitt families.

Funeral arrangements have been made with Baldwin Fairchild Funeral Homes. There will be a Celebration of life service on Saturday, December 7, 2024 at 11:00am. It will be held at Hillside Community Church, 405 S Main Ave, Minneola, FL. Please feel free to join the family in a luncheon at the church following the service.

Donations in memory of Daniel Martin Estes can be made to PanCan.com.

WEST PALM BEACH – Theresa K. Karmazyn, of West Palm Beach, FL, formerly of Buffalo, NY, entered into rest on Thursday, February 27, 2025 at the age of 92.

Born April 25, 1932 in Buffalo, she was a daughter of the late Michael Gozdziak and Theresa (Tubisz) Arendt. Mrs. Karmazyn worked as a dietician for many years at the Millard Fillmore Gates Hospital in Buffalo. She and her husband, Walter Karmazyn, moved to Florida in 1982. Mrs. Karmazyn enjoyed spending time with her family and will be missed by her family and friends.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Walter in 2004; daughter, Helen Karmazyn in 2024; two grandsons, Thomas Karmazyn, Jr. and Joseph Karmazyn, Jr.; as well as all of her siblings.

Left to mourn her loss are her eight children, Thomas (Beverly) Karmazyn, Donald (Sandra) Karmazyn, Kenneth Karmazyn, Paul (Nancy) Karmazyn all of Buffalo, Joseph (Karlene) Karmazyn of OH, Barbara Karmazyn, Susan (Keith) Giffels both of FL and Christine (John) Pinsonneault of Rochester; twenty-two grandchildren; thirty-two great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, April 11 at 11AM at Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church, 211 Eagle St., Medina, NY 14103. Inurnment 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.

ALBION – Mark E. “Lufty” Luft, age 54, passed away unexpectedly at his home on March 15, 2025. He was born August 22, 1970, in Medina, NY, a son of David and Ruth Luft.

Mark was a 1988 graduate of Albion High School and made his life here locally. He worked for the Albion Police Department for 20 years before retiring in 2013 as a Sergeant. He was a Jack of all trades and knew a lot about everything. Growing up, Mark was always the wise guy, good at playing jokes on family and friends, everyone having a good laugh. He most recently was working for Ludwick Paving and Concrete was known for being a hard worker and keeping the guys entertained. He also worked at Albion Ace Hardware, keeping busy when he could. Mark was very active in the Albion community as a life member of the Albion Fire Dept. and as a member of the Albion Fireflies back in the day. He gave a tremendous amount of love and dedication to his community during his life, leaving a great legacy for everyone to cherish.

In his spare time, he truly enjoyed taking care of Mackenzie’s goats, and hunting or fishing with his son Nicholas. Many amazing memories were made with not only his family but also friends, hunting, fishing.

Mark is survived by his loving wife of 18 years Amy, children Mackenzie E. Luft, Nicholas D. Luft, mother and father David and Ruth Luft, siblings Sarina (Jon) Hart, Matt (Laura) Luft, mother and father-in-law, Susan Cummings and Charlie (Julie) Cummings, nieces and nephews Jessica and Spence Hart, Georgia, Hudson and Caroline Luft, brother-in-law Chris (Joan) Cummings, several aunts, uncles, cousins and countless friends.

Mark’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 21 West Ave. Albion, NY 14411 on Saturday, March 22nd from 12:00-4:00pm where his Celebration of Life Service will be held at 4:00pm. A time to further celebrate Lufty’s life will follow his service at the St. Mary’s Athletic Club 538 Moore St. Albion.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Mark’s name may be made to Albion Fire Dept. 108 N. Platt St. Albion, NY 14411.

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

ALBION – Frederick C. “Fred” Pilon, 77, of Albion, NY, passed away peacefully on March 15, 2025, at Medina Memorial Hospital.

Born on March 21, 1947, in Albion, Fred was the beloved son of the late Charles and Bertha (Vendetta) Pilon.

A hardworking and dedicated man, he proudly carried on his family’s legacy as the second-generation owner and operator of Pilon Construction. His career began as a heavy equipment operator, a passion that never faded, even in his later years. Through his tireless dedication, he laid the foundation for the company’s continued success, leaving a lasting impact on the industry and those he worked with. His greatest accomplishment was building a thriving business, as it was what fueled his drive and determination.

Fred lived life to the fullest, always embracing hard work and the simple joys of family and tradition. He especially cherished holiday celebrations, treasuring the time spent with loved ones. In his younger years, he had a love for racing and classic cars, spending countless hours behind the wheel of his prized 1971 hot rod, affectionately named “Rambunctious.” His enthusiasm for life, strong work ethic, and unwavering dedication to his family defined him, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and passion.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Shirley Collichio.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Carol, and their loving children: Julie (Bob) Gibbs, Kevin (Elizabeth) Pilon, Karen (Chris) Kinter, Stephanie Pilon, Jason (Melissa) Pilon and Spencer Pilon. He is also survived by several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, his sister, Sue Pilon, nephews, and numerous cousins.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Friday, March 21st, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 21 West Ave, Albion, NY 14411. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Joseph’s Church, W. Park St., Albion, on Saturday, March 22nd, at 10 a.m., with interment to follow at St. Joseph’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Fred’s honor to the Genesee Orleans Ministry of Concern, 29 East State Street, Albion, NY 14411, or the St. Joseph’s Church Cemetery Fund, 106 S. Main St., Albion, NY 14411.

To share a special memory or offer condolences, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Fred’s legacy of hard work, love, and dedication will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

ALBION – Dorothy (Allen) Ergott age 104, passed away March 16, 2025 in Orchard Rehab and Nursing Center. She was born August 25, 1920 in Somerset NY a daughter of the late Ervin and Rhoda (Brown) Allen.

Dorothy had lived in this area all of her life and was a member of the Eagle Harbor Methodist Church. She enjoyed golf and playing cards.

She was predeceased by her husband, Ward Ergott; daughter, Sally Kaminski; sisters, Esther Derisley and Eleanor Klatt, Shirley Beecher and her brother, Ervin Jr.

Dorothy is survived by her daughter, Susan (David) Newton; grandchildren, Jeffrey (Patty) Newton, Timothy (Elaine) Newton, Wayne (Sally) Kaminski and Michele (Gilberto) Cavalherio; great-grandchildren, Sierra, Nikolas, Paige and Amelia; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes. 21 West Avenue, Albion, NY 14411 on THURSDAY March 20, from 3:30-6:30 followed by her funeral service at 6:30pm. Interment will be private at Mt. Albion Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, P.O. Box 98018, Washington, DC. 20090-8018.  The family would like to thank the  staff at the Nursing Home for the loving care they provided for Dorothy.

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

MEDINA – Marion F. Toussaint, age 81, of Medina, NY, passed into eternal rest on March 9, 2025.

Marion was born on July 28, 1943, in Medina, daughter of the late Martin and Julia (Federowich) Grabowski. She attended St. Mary’s Catholic School and graduated from Medina High School in 1960.

She married the love of her life, Richard L. Toussaint, on August 11, 1962.

She worked as an administrative secretary for FMC Corp, Fairfield American Corp., Cormed Inc. and finished her career with the Orleans County Child Support Unit, where she earned an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice. She was a life-long member of St. Mary’s RC Church – Holy Trinity Parish where for many years she taught Sunday school and was a Eucharistic minister.

Marion and Richard were also involved in 4-H as the leaders of the Fruit Avenue Bombers 4-H club. They were licensed amateur radio operators and helped with communications on events throughout the area. They were often seen at the Orleans County fair manning the Wild Turkey Federation table. Over the years Marion also enjoyed bowling, snowmobiling and hunting together with Richard.

Marion was predeceased by her beloved husband Richard; brothers, Francis Grabowski and Harold Grabowski; and her sister Barbara J. Wagner- Emery.

She is survived by her children, Denise Toussaint-Jackson of Tempe, AZ and Shari (David) Butrite of Wilmington, NC; and two grandchildren that she loved with all her heart, Jessica Toussaint of Tucson and Zachary Butrite of Wilmington. As well as many nieces and nephews along with their spouses and children.

The family would also like to thank the community of Fruit Avenue for their outpouring of support prior to Marion moving to Scottsdale, AZ to be closer to her daughter and granddaughter.

Rev. Jan Trela will celebrate her Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, March 29 at 10 a.m. at Holy Trinity Parish, St Mary’s Church, 211 Eagle St., Medina, NY 14103. Interment will be in Hartland Central Cemetery. A celebration of life will be held following the interment, with details to follow.

Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, WNY Chapter, 6400 Sheridan Drive, Ste 320, Amherst, NY 14221 or to Holy Trinity Parish at the address above. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina.

Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

ALBION – Jaron T. “J-Rock” Thompson, 35, of Albion, NY, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at Rochester General Hospital.

He was born on May6, 1989 in Medina, NY, he was the son of Michael and Shannon (Dannard) Thompson.

Jaron attended Sanborn Schools and at one time he was employed at Brunners International. He moved to Medina to live with his grandmother and two brothers, Mookie and Ryan.

Jaron was a proud father to his five children that he loved dearly, Nalaya, Jaeliana, Ja’niah, Jamarianah and Aleigha.

Besides his parents, Jaron is survived by his fiancée, Jessica Craver; four siblings, Mookie, Ryan, Timothy and Raven. Also survived are a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Family and friends are invited to call from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 26th, 2025, at the Shiloh Judgement Free Church, 3286 Crandall Rd., Albion, NY 14411, where his Going Home Service will be held at 2:30 p.m. Burial will be private for the family.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St. Medina, NY 14103. Please light a candle or share a memory of J-Rock at www.bogantuttlefunerals.com.

MEDINA – Sheila M. Royal, of Medina, NY entered into rest peacefully on Thursday, March 13, 2025 at the age of 88.

Born June 23, 1936 in Medina, she was a daughter of the late Stanley and Lottie (Waterson) Rorick.

Sheila graduated from Medina High School, Class of 1954. Shortly after, she married Zara “Zeke” Royal in August of 1954. Sheila worked as a secretary at the Medina Memorial Hospital for over 30 years, retiring in 2000. She was an active member of the East Shelby Community Bible Church. Sheila enjoyed flying on many family trips across the country with her children and husband Zeke as their pilot. She was also an avid reader. Sheila was well loved by her family and friends and will be dearly missed.

In addition to her parents, Sheila was predeceased by her husband, Zara Royal in 2001 and her grandson, Corey Royal in 2017.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughter, Sue (Hon. Russell) Buscaglia of Grand Island, NY; son, Craig (Wendy) Royal of Troutman, NC; grandchildren, Kyle (Kristen) Intihar, Steven Intihar, Courtney Intihar (Tyler Chapman), Liberty (Ken) Green and Dr. Michael (Mary) Royal; great-grandchildren, Kayden, Kolton, Leia, Cora, Mary Connelly “MC” and Elizabeth; also several nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to extend a special thanks to the caring staff at Medina Memorial Hospital- North Wing SNF for the exceptional care they provided Sheila in her final years.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, March 21 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Her memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 22 at 11 a.m. at the East Shelby Community Bible Church, 5278 E. Shelby Rd., Medina.

In lieu of flowers, the family appreciates any donations in her memory to the Medina Memorial Hospital- North Wing Activities Program, 200 Ohio St., Medina, NY 14103.

Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

Albion – Elizabeth “Betty” Hales, age 83 unexpectedly passed away March 8, 2025. She was born July 12, 1941 in Rochester, NY to the late Clara and Lloyd Huber.

Betty grew up on a farm and loved being outside with her dad and the animals. She was an excellent student and lifelong learner. She graduated sixth in her high school class, and after having five children, she went on to get her bachelor’s degree and finally her master’s degree in library science at age 57. Betty’s love for books was put to use in her decades of working in both the Albion public library and the Albion high school library. At home her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren enjoyed hours of sitting on her lap over the years while she read them stories.

On September 23, 1967, Betty married Robert Hales. After their five children were grown, and both were retired, Betty and Bob enjoyed spending a few days each week serving together in the Palmyra Temple. They spent time together gardening, studying, serving others, spending time with family, and traveling.

Betty will especially be remembered for her love of serving others, her bright smile, her deep love for each family member (including both posterity and those who came before her), her love for horses and dogs, her love of books, her deep faith in Jesus Christ, and her Christlike service and willingness to serve others. Her shining example, bright spirit, and loving personality will be deeply missed.

Betty is survived by her sister, Beverly (Ken) Snowdon, her husband Bob Hales, their five children, John (Carin) Hales of Fort Lauderdale, FL, David (Lucy) Hales of Alice Springs, Australia, Lori (Wayne) Aldrich of Malta, NY, Wendy (Dan) Blood of Ballston Lake, NY, and Sandy (Chris) Naugle of Westminster, MD. Betty adored her grandchildren and was predeceased by Rachel Aldrich and Coventry Hales. She is survived by Robert (Amelia) Hales, Ashley (Dallin) Edwards, Brianna (Jason) Bowler, Andrew Hales, Jacinta Hales, Alyssa Hales, Jotham Hales, Kaylea (Nathan) Hopkins, Sarah Aldrich, Joshua Aldrich, Jocelyn Blood, Megan Blood, Jason Blood, Evan Blood, Katherine Blood, Claire Naugle, Maddie Naugle, Amelia Naugle, and Olivia Naugle. She also has five great-grandchildren: Rorik, Grace, Emma, Henry, and Logan.

Betty’s family will receive friends for viewing at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints at 4088 Lake Rd N, Brockport, NY 14420 on Friday, March 14th from 5:00 to 8:00 PM and on Saturday, March 15th from 9:00 to 10:30 AM. Her funeral service will be held Saturday at 11:00 AM at the same location. Interment will follow in Parma Corners Cemetery.

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

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

HOLLEY – Janet Bennage, 81, of Holley, NY, passed away surrounded by family on March 8, 2025. Janet was born May 13, 1943 in Rochester, NY, to Frank and Dorothy Dittrich. She had lived in the Holley area for 46 years and was an employee of Bausch & Lomb in Rochester. She loved baking, painting ceramics, crocheting, TV gameshows, and bird watching.

Janet is predeceased by her husband Walter R. Bennage and survived by her four children; Darlene (Bruce) Westphal, Wendi (Rick) Pollock, Walter (Vangie) Bennage, and Michael (Amy) Bennage; sixteen grandchildren, and nineteen great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, March 15, from 1pm to 4pm at the Disciples United Methodist Church, 4410 Holley Byron Rd, Holley, NY 14470. A Moment of Remembrance will be held at 1:15pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Disciples United Methodist Church; or Orchard Rehab & Nursing Center, please note: “Resident Council Fund,” 600 Bates Rd, Medina, NY 14103.

ALBION – formerly of Rochester: Charles E. Miller, age 77, passed away unexpectedly of natural causes on March 10, 2025. He was born January 25, 1948, in Brookville, PA to the late Victor and Martha (Miles) Miller.

Charles worked as a social worker for DePaul Developmental Services in Rochester, NY for many years. Charles enjoyed reading, going out to breakfast and lunch and taking his beloved dog Oskar for walks. He was loved and respected by countless people who knew him and will be fondly remembered.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his siblings, Norma (Robert) Wright, Victor (Ruby) Miller, Bess (Jesse) Wainwright, Thomas (Florene and Irma Jean) Miller.

Charles is survived by his daughter Stephanie (Philip) Pickering; granddaughters Rebecca and Danielle Pickering; sister Cheryl (Paul) Harper; mother of Stephanie, Marchia Miller; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Charles’ name may be made to the International Association of Suicide Prevention or the Rochester Victory Alliance.

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

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

MEDINA – Theodore “Ted” Barrett, Jr., age 81, of Medina, NY died on Sunday, March 9, 2025 at the Orchard Rehab & Nursing Center.

Ted was born on April 10, 1943 in Medina. He was a son of the late Theodore and Clarine (Ackerson) Barrett, Sr. Ted married the former Janice L. Tabor on December 9, 1967 and the couple raised a family of four children. He worked for the Village of Medina- Dept. of Public Works until 1982 when he and his wife moved to Plant City, FL. They returned to Medina in 1992 and have resided here ever since. Ted worked for ACME in Medina for many years and retired in 2005. He was a longtime parishioner of the United Methodist Church in Medina. Ted enjoyed watching Nascar and old John Wayne western movies.

Predeceased by his parents, sisters, Betty Zgirbar and Irene Eddy; and grandson, John Wayne Barrett in 2005.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Janice Barrett of Medina; four children, Theodore Barrett III of Medina, Gertrude (Kars) Schonveld of Lockhart, SC, Janice (William) Steer of Knightstown, IN and Vincent (Teresa) Barrett of Medina; 36 grandchildren; and 25 great-grandchildren.

An hour of calling will be held on Thursday, March 20 from 4-5PM, followed by a brief service at 5PM at the Grove United Methodist Church, 11004 W. Center St., Medina. A dinner will follow. Interment will be in Bates Road Cemetery at a later date. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

AUSTIN – Ellyn MacConnell, age 81, passed away peacefully on March 8, 2025, surrounded by her immediate family, after a courageous two-year battle against leukemia.

Born on October 26, 1943, in Medina, NY, to Irene and Al Keller, Ellyn was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, and friend. Ellyn graduated from Medina High School in 1961 and went on to study opera and elementary education at SUNY Potsdam, where she graduated in 1965. Her love for teaching children defined her career as a kindergarten teacher at Royalton Hartland Central School, where she dedicated 32 years to nurturing young minds. Ellyn’s enthusiasm for Broadway musicals shone brightly as she directed high school musicals at Royalton Hartland for many years. She also adapted musicals for her kindergarten classes to perform, igniting a passion for the arts in her students.

Ellyn had a talent for baking, particularly during the Christmas season when she made numerous kinds of cookies to share with family and friends. When Greg served as VP of Student Affairs at Niagara County Community College, she generously baked cookies for over 10 departments.

In 2004, Ellyn and her husband Greg moved to Austin, TX, to be closer to their grandchildren, Noah and Olivia. She relished her time taking them to swimming lessons, playing at the park and taking them on wagon rides. Ellyn was their biggest cheerleader, supporting them in sports, fencing lessons, and ballet performances in the Nutcracker at the Houston Ballet.

Ellyn’s creativity extended to renovating a 1952 family cottage on Lake Ontario in Barker, NY.  She loved to tend to her gardens and prized hydrangeas. In Austin, she led a committee in the HOA to decorate the community entrances at Christmas with lights, garlands and ribbons, always encouraging volunteers with freshly baked cookies.

Ellyn’s daughters, Melissa and Katie, were her pride and joy. She believed in their potential and encouraged them to achieve success through hard work and determination. Ellyn was married to her loving husband, Greg, for 42 years, together building a foundation for a successful and happy life.

Ellyn is survived by her husband, Greg MacConnell; daughters, Melissa Henshaw of Alexandria, VA, and Katie Lisiecki of Lockport, NY; grandchildren, Noah Henshaw of Arlington, VA and Olivia Henshaw of Alexandria, VA; sisters in-law, Claudia Frisch and Marcia Davidson; brother in-law, Lloyd Davidson; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was predeceased by her mother, Irene White; father, Al Keller; stepfather, Roland White; brother, Wayne Keller; sister in-law, Sandra Keller; and brother in-law, Lynn Frisch.

Ellyn MacConnell’s legacy will be cherished by her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched. Her warmth, kindness, and unwavering support will be dearly missed.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, March 15 from 10AM-12PM at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Her funeral service will immediately follow at 12PM and interment will be in Boxwood Cemetery. Share memories and condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

Alvin Anheier, age 97, died peacefully on March 9, 2025.  He was born May 16, 1927, to the late LaRoy and Ethel Anheier.

He was predeceased by his brother, Norman, and his wife of 56 years, Roberta Stickney Anheier.

He is survived by daughters Christine Hunt (Scott Galliford), Denise (Kevin) Bedard and Erin Anheier (Russ Bosch); two grandchildren, Brenden and Lindsay Bedard (Michael Dunn); four great grandchildren; nephew Norman Anheier (Beth) of Washington State, special friend, Mary Wood and Kathy Armer Beaumont, favorite neighborhood kid.

He volunteered for the Navy at 16, serving in the Pacific during World War II and returned home to become a skilled carpenter and then a welder-fabricator working at Dynacolor and subsequently 3M.  He loved to build and fix things, spending much of his retirement building furniture and driving his Model A Fords and Oliver tractors.

He was always ready to lend a helping hand- volunteering hours to build the Brockport Conservation Club and Concordia Lutheran Church of Brockport and helping neighbors and friends with their many projects. He enjoyed people, judging them only by their character. An avid collector of many things, he loved family, animals and travel, visiting all 50 states, Europe and South America.

Alvin’s family will receive friends at Fowler Funeral Home Inc. 340 West Ave., Brockport on Saturday, March 22, 2025, from 12 noon to 2 p.m. followed by a funeral service at 2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to animal rescue services Mr. Gray’s Strays or Duffy’s Friends, both of Brockport or an organization of your choice.