Obituaries

MEDINA- Linda P. Smith, of Medina, passed away on Sunday, March 10, 2024 surrounded by her loving family.
Born on March 8, 1946 in Medina, she was a daughter of the late Howard and Ida (Allen) Gardner. Linda grew up in Medina and graduated from Medina High School in 1964. On July 25, 1964, she married George W. Smith and the couple raised a family of three children. Having studied at the Sherwood School of Music, Linda was an exceptional pianist. She enjoyed playing bingo, going to the casino and traveling with her husband to Florida. A wonderful cook, she loved cooking and entertaining for the holidays. During her retirement, Linda’s love of cooking led her to build and operate The Old Mill Run Restaurant in Medina, where she was best known for her macaroni and potato salad. Linda especially loved spending time with her family, who will miss her dearly.
In addition to her parents she was predeceased by her husband, George on February 28, 2018; and her brother, James (June) Gardner.
Linda is survived by her three children, David (Karla) Smith, Karen (Paul) Curtin and Robert (Karen) Smith; eight grandchildren, Kristen (Matt) Pelkey, Zachery (Lana) Curtin, Kalie (Jake) Zelazny, Cameron Smith, Kyle Smith, Alex Smith, Anthony Brown and Abigail Brown; four great-grandchildren, Sean and Caroline Pelkey, Arilyn and Lila Zelazny; sister, Donna (Phil) Miller; sister in-law, Joanne (James) Harley; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
There will be no prior calling hours. A graveside committal service will be held in Millville Cemetery at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in memory of Linda may be made to the Knights-Kaderli Memorial Fund, PO Box 684, Medina, NY 14103 or to Hospice of Orleans at www.hospiceoforleans.org. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

KENT- Marjorie “Midge” Warren, age 84, died March 10, 2024 in her daughter’s home lovingly surrounded by her family. She was born June 4, 1939 in Eagle Harbor to Alva and Monica Bates and was a life-long resident of this area.

Midge was a self-employed beautician for many years and also worked as a secretary for the Kendall School District. She was a member of the Eagle Harbor United Methodist Church, and was also an Ombudsman and Patient Advocate at The Village of Orleans. Midge also learned signed language which she taught privately in the community and she also taught line dancing. Midge volunteered with the Orleans County Veteran Transport Service as a driver and when nothing else was going on, she enjoyed her coffee time with her girlfriends. Mrs. Warren was predeceased by her parents and her husband Charlie.

She is survived by her son: David (Peggy) Warren of Kent, her daughters: Cathy (David) Magowan of Kent, Connie (Christine) Warren of VA, her sister: Joan Wraight of Barre Center, her grandchildren: David (Evelyn) Warren, Tricia Warren, Torrie (John) Kramer and her great grandchildren: Hailey and Charles.

The family will receive friends at the Eagle Harbor Methodist Church, Eagle Harbor Methodist c/o Michelle Howard 2364 Lake Road Hamlin, NY 14464, FRIDAY MARCH 22, 2024 from 1-3 immediately followed by her Memorial Service beginning at 3 pm. Private interment at the convenience of the family will be held in West Kendall Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the church at Eagle Harbor Methodist, c/o Michelle Howard at 2364 Lake Road, Hamlin, NY 14464 or the American Cancer Society, 1120 Goodman St. S., Rochester, NY 14620. Midge’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes of Albion. To share a special memory of Midge, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

ROYALTON – Harry A. Houghtling, age 75, died March 9, 2024 in his home following a brief illness.  He was born September 30, 1948 in Niagara Falls to Richard and Margaret (Burrows) Houghtling and had lived in this area all of his life.

Harry was United States Army Veteran of the Vietnam War where he served as a gunner on a helicopter.  H was Vice President of the Vietnam Veterans of Niagara County, retired as a Tinsmith from General Motors, enjoyed hunting and loved the outdoors.

He had two special loves in his life which were his cats: Mikey and his “princess” Sadie.

Mr. Houghtling was predeceased two sisters, Judy and Donna, and a brother, Kenny.

He is survived by his wife, Cheryl; his sons, Heath and Joshua Houghtling, Matthew and Brett Winters; his brothers, Gary and Ray (Virginia) Houghtling; 3 grandchildren, Emily, Warren and Sage; as well as several nieces and nephews.

There will be no calling hours.  A private service and interment will be held in WNY National Cemetery at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to: The Wounded Warriors Project, 600 River Ave., Unit 400, Pittsburgh, PA 15212.

Harry’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Bates, Wallace & Heath Funeral Home of Middleport.

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

WATERPORT – Michael E. Budynski, age 74, passed away March 8, 2024 at the Martin Linsin Residence following a long illness. He was born February 5, 1950, in Albion, a son of the late Earl and Laura (Kokoszka) Budynski and had lived in this area all of his life.

Mike graduated from Albion High School in 1968. He and his late brother Gary, followed in their father and uncle’s paths, working on the family dairy farm that their grandfather started. Mike enjoyed the outdoors, music and woodworking.

He is survived by his sister Linda (Rodney) Daniels and many loving cousins and friends.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, 21 West Ave. Albion on Wednesday March 13th from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. where his funeral service will be at  1 p.m. Burial will follow in Mt. Albion Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Hospice of Orleans, 14084 Rte. 31, Albion NY 14411 or to the Carlton Fire Company, 14341 Waterport Carlton Rd. Albion NY 14411.

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

Jamie L. Blanchet, 48, of Tampa, FL, entered into eternal rest on January 12, 2024 following a brief illness.

Born June 22, 1975 in Alexandria, VA, she was the beloved daughter of Robert and Peggy (Rice) Blanchet.

Jamie was born and raised in Virginia and moved to the Tampa area in 1998. There she worked as an emergency veterinary nurse for many years. Jamie had many certifications in her field and was always learning new techniques to care for her patients. Jamie so enjoyed helping whatever animal came through the doors, whether it was dogs, cats, owls, birds, eagles, raccoons, squirrels or something else. Jamie was famous for saying, “It’s fine.” She helped them all and was very skilled in her work. She also enjoyed volunteering in wildlife rehabilitation and enjoyed crafts and jigsaw puzzles in her spare time.

Left to cherish her memory are her parents, Robert and Peggy Blanchet of Woodbridge, VA; brother, Jason Blanchet of Woodbridge, VA; aunts and uncles, Robert Rice of Medina, NY, Sue (Robert) Cunningham of Clinton, CT, Linda Blanchet of Batavia, NY and Richard (Sue) Blanchet of Belleville, IL; and numerous cousins and extended family.

She was predeceased by maternal grandparents, Leonard and Lucille Rice; paternal grandparents, Dr. Harvey J. (Florence) Blanchet; and her uncle, Dr. Harvey J. Blanchet III of Batavia.

Private interment will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Medina. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

MEDINA – Blaine R. Poler, 82, of Medina, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 7, 2024. A son of the late Blair W. and Alethe A. (Fearby) Poler, he was born May 8, 1941 in Medina.

Mr. Poler graduated from Medina High School in 1959. Shortly after, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force serving from 1959-1966. Early on, Mr. Poler worked for Bausch & Lomb and lastly for Eastman-Kodak, retiring in 1991.

An avid outdoorsman, he had a passion for hunting, both gun and archery. Mr. Poler travelled extensively on hunting excursions, notably to Alaska. In his later years, he enjoyed daily coffee and talks with his daughter, Nickie, and especially loved spending time with his granddaughter, Aly.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother, Karl Poler.

Left to cherish his memory are his children, Shannon (Martine) Greek of Montreal, QC, Darwin Poler, Eric (Kerry) Poler both of Medina; Chad (Amy) Bronson of FL and Nickie (Nick) Poler of Albion; grandchildren, Alyson Snow, Jacob Girardo, Maxim and Stella Poler, and Eden Bronson and Gavin Bronson; siblings, Larry (late Ann) Poler, Jay Poler and Susan (Andrew) Johnson; also several nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, March 15 from 3 to 6 p.m. followed by full military honors at 6 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Future interment will be in the WNY National Cemetery, Pembroke.

Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association of WNY, www.alz.org/wny. Share condolences and memories at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

KENT — Capt. William F. Ashmore of Kent, NY passed away just one week of shy his 87th birthday, joining his wife Clarissa “Sissy” Ashmore. He is survived by his daughter Debbie Ashmore, son-in-law Pete Matuskevich, son Matthew Ashmore, daughter-in-law Chris Ashmore, son Ricky Ashmore, and only granddaughter Amanda Matuskevich.

Born in Ludowici, GA in 1937, he led a life of adventure. He was a policeman, an electrician, business owner, farmer, coon dog hunter, horse lover and a fisherman. It was his time at the helm of Just 4 Fun charters that he will be most remembered for. Those that went out on Capt. Bill’s boat never came home empty handed nor without a few stories about ol’ Bill.

His family will host a Celebration of Life in the Spring at a later time to be announced, at his “office” on Lake Ontario, where they will tell a few tales and perhaps catch a few fish.

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

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

ALBION- James Martin O’Brien passed from this world to the next on March 5, 2024. He was 82 years young.

James – or Jim or Jimmy or Uncle Jimmy or Coach or Dad or Papa – is survived by his loving wife of over sixty years, Sandy. Together they had two children and four grandchildren and have a great grandchild on the way.

Sandy and Jimmy met as teenagers and married soon thereafter. They went through life as best friends, as all the best marriages do. From family to baseball, from easy times to the not so easy times, from a house full of noise to a house of relative silence, it was always Sandy and her beloved Jimmy. Jimmy and his beloved Sandy. For over 63 years they stood side by side as partners, taking on the world one day at a time. Now Sandy will move forward alone, but we know her beloved Jimmy will always be with her in spirit. In the future, should Sandy ever stumble and fall, and wonder whether she can get up again, she will think of him. And we know he will be watching, smiling, and cheering her on.

The loss Sandy feels today is immeasurable, as anyone in this position all too knowingly understands. To love someone as Sandy loved Jimmy is to know that one day, no matter how hard you try, your heart will be forever broken and never heal. This is the painful price we pay on earth to experience the privilege of true love. Jimmy was Sandy’s true love. And Sandy was Jimmy’s. And what a miraculous gift that was for both.

James’ first child was his daughter Kim. Kim graduated college and graduate school with degrees in speech pathology.  She married Kirk Narburgh in 1989 and together, with lots of love and support from Papa, they raised two, now adult, but always amazing, daughters Sarah (Corey) Burrows of Boston, Massachusetts, and Doctor Hannah (Mitch) Dunay of Hampstead, North Carolina. Sarah will miss her Ploppy, a name whose origin is a now mystery to everyone but Sarah. Sarah’s heart will forever have a missing piece. Doctor Hannah and Mitch are expecting a baby girl in May of this year. It breaks our collective hearts that Papa will never hold his great granddaughter – and of course teach her how to play tricks on people at the mall.

James’ second child was his son Mark of Tampa, Florida. Mark graduated from college and law school and lives in Tampa, Florida where he is an attorney. Mark married his wife Katie in 2009 and together they have two sons, Finn James (12) (named after his Papa) and Buckley (10). To Finn and Buck, Papa was nothing more than a big kid, always good for a toss in the pool or a pillow fight on the couch. Like Sarah and Hannah, both O’Brien boys will miss their Papa dearly.

James is survived by his brother David O’Brien of Ripley, New York and his sister Catherine O’Brien who resides in Albion. James and David were the best of friends, as only brothers who saw a little too much a little too soon can be. It was amazing to watch them say so little but do so much for each other for over 80 years.

James lived a life worth celebrating. And celebrate it we shall. Born on September 11, in the year 1941, he hated that evil men did evil things on the day of his birth and during his birth year. James was the opposite of those men. He was decent, kind, and forever in your corner. Those who knew him, knew him to be quick with a wry smile but short on conversation. But those who really knew him, knew that his wry smile would fast become a jolly laugh and that the guy would never really shut up. We all loved that about him.

James loved sports, in particular baseball. He loved watching the Yankees on WPIX Channel 11 (“Holy Cow!”) and later the YES Network. While Dad loved the Yankees, he secretly rooted for the Rays because Mark did. He loved collecting baseball cards with Mark. And he spent hours tracing his (and others’) roots through his love of genealogy. He loved his yearly trips to Myrtle Beach with family and friends. He loved a donut with the gang at Timmy’s. He loved beef on ‘weck (especially at the long since closed Checkerboard of Batavia). He loved playing cards with Uncle Kerm, Aunt Maryellen, and later Rose. He loved beating Smitty on the baseball diamond. He loved telling us old stories about Mort, about Chuck, about his many brothers-in-law, especially our Uncle Jerry (who affectionately called James “The Irishman”), and about a whole bunch of other characters from his past who just like him are gone too soon.

Jimmy loved long Sunday afternoon drives with Sandy and her mother, and later simply Sandy. Papa loved nothing more than beating Kirk at shuffleboard and Katie at mini golf. And was there anything better than hide and seek at Mount Albion Cemetery with Sarah, Hannah, Finn, and Buck? Nope, but that was nothing more than a rhetorical question (it’s an Albion thing – Google it). The best way to sum up Papa is that if a member of his family loved something, he would find a way to love it, too.

Jim, as he was known during the work week (and for Jim the work week was Monday through Saturday, resting only for Catholic Mass on Sundays), served as a mail carrier for the United States Postal Service for over 40 years. But his first job, he often told us, was not at the post office but instead at the old Lipton’s plant in Albion packing soup cans in an assembly line. Given an opportunity to get outside and become a mail carrier at age 18, he switched gears and began an important part of his life. Far beyond putting in an honest day’s work for an honest day’s pay, Jim earned both health care and stability for his family. Always one to work overtime on his day off to help his co-workers, as their union representative Jim also stood up for his fellow mail carriers when a wrong needed righting. And delivering the mail was more than just depositing letters into a mailbox for him. Each day Jim was part confidant, part therapist, and one hundred percent friend to every person on his route. Yes, even the dogs. For those in their senior years Jim would “check in”, like a doctor once made house calls, especially for those without close family in town. In essence, Jim was his route’s special caretaker. He looked after the occupants of each house and apartment, in the way that was individually needed at that moment, while expecting nothing in return.

Uncle Jimmy, as he was known to his extended family, was a fixture at Gaylord family gatherings. While most of the uncles, and some of the aunts, hovered near the Genesee Cream Ale keg, Uncle Jimmy was always a man in constant motion, playing with the children or just helping someone do something that needed doing. Sandy was the youngest of ten children, so many of their nieces and nephews were close in age to Uncle Jimmy. As time moved forward and they began to lose their mothers and fathers, it was always Uncle Jimmy who stood quietly by their side before, during, and after their loss. Uncle Jimmy may not have always had the right words, but he always did the right thing.

Uncle Jimmy was also “Coach” to so many. At least once a year, while at a mall or restaurant outside of Albion, a stranger would approach him with a big smile and exclaim, “Hello Coach!” The old ball coach in him would reach back into time long ago and respond, “I can recognize your face, but you are going to have to help me with your name.” And there, while standing in a random store or burger joint, one man would tell an older man what an inspiration he was to him as a child. Coach did not just teach kids the right way to play baseball, he taught them the right way to live life. It should be noted that at one point in Coach’s life he managed three different baseball teams: the Knights of Columbus Little League team, the Knights of Columbus Babe Ruth team, and his beloved American Legion team. The latter played in the New York State championship game at the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York. (An aside: Coach always said with a sly smile that both Kim and Mark mishandled a few ground balls that touched their gloves back in the day. He was correct of course. If the ball touched their mitts, they should have had ‘em.)

Sandy’s beloved husband was taken from this world too soon. Though he rarely drank alcohol, never smoked a day in his life, exercised daily, and ate well, he contracted the rare disease Guillain-Barré Syndrome shortly after the first of the year. His auto immune system attacked his nervous system rendering his last days extremely difficult. Despite trying his hardest in the Intensive Care Unit of Strong Memorial Hospital for nearly eight weeks, he could not beat this foe. In the end, with family at his side, and at peace, he closed his eyes, and went quietly to God. Our sadness runs deep. And we are forever changed.

However, when you see us, we ask that your wonderful memories of this kind and gentle man be greater than your grief. We promise you this is what he would want. Whether to you he was James, Jim, Jimmy, Uncle Jimmy, or Coach, for us he was and always will be James Martin O’Brien, a man amongst men, in a world increasingly lacking in them.

For 82 years we were all very lucky to have him in our lives, and now heaven is too.

Go n-éiri an bóther leat.

Go raibh an ghaoth go brách ag do chúl.

Go lonrai an ghrian go te ar d’aghaidh.

Until we meet again Papa.

Calling hours will be held at Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home in Albion, New York from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Friday, March 8, 2024.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Family Catholic Church (formerly Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church) in Albion, New York at 11:00 am on Saturday, March 9, 2024.

A proper Irish Wake will be held immediately following the funeral at a location to be determined (check this website for an update later in the week for the location). Please join us for food and drink and share your stories about James with his family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in James’ name may be made to either the Francis House of Syracuse, New York (francishouseny.org) or the Ryan Callahan Foundation (ryancallahanfoundation.org). Both charitable organizations are nonprofit, close to our family’s heart, and may be found online.

LYNDONVILLE- Kathleen A. Williams, 93 years of age, of Lyndonville, NY, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 2, 2024 at the Vitas Hospice House, Lecanto, FL.

Kathleen was born on January 12, 1931 in Akron, NY the late Kenneth and Emelda Snell. She was the second oldest of four children. Kathleen was educated in Clarence, NY and in 1950, married her loving husband Earl Roy Williams, before his passing in 1999, they celebrated forty-nine years of marriage. Five children were born from this union.

Kathleen professed her life to Christ at an early age. When she passed, she was a member of the Yates Baptist Church in Lyndonville, NY. Over her years, she expressed her service to God by helping others. To name only a few of the ways she professed her love and service to Christ were: she served on a mission board, taught Sunday School, baked and cooked for various events and started a women’s group in her home, after the passing of her husband. Even after her health prevented her from serving in the church, you could always count on Kathleen to pray with or for others whenever there was a need.

Kathleen was a loving and caring person, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend. She loved to laugh, quilt, bake and entertain. She leaves to cherish her loving memory of her children Nancy Rhodes, Deborah Garney, Tammy (Maury) Campbell, and Cynthia (Steve) Maxwell. Also serving are twelve grandchildren, twenty-six great-grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren, a sister, Joyce Weed, and many nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents and husband, Kathleen is predeceased by two siblings, Kenneth Snell and Arlene Jones, a son, Earl Williams and son-in-law’s, Randy Garney and Walter Weed.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Kathleen’s name to the Yates Baptist Church, 11365 E. Yate Center Rd. Lyndonville, NY 14098 or to your local Hospice chapter.

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

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, dear friend, educator extraordinaire, Jim Miles of Fairport, NY passed while vacationing in Deerfield Beach on February 17th, 2024.  Born April 21, 1942 in Albion, NY.  In his pursuit of education Jim began working at The Santa Claus School in Albion.  He went onto the University of Albany where he earned his BS in accounting.  He quickly realized his true calling was to teach children.  So, he attended the University of Rochester and received his MA in counseling.  Quickly following was his administrative degree in education from the State University of Brockport.  During his time at the U of R, he met and fell in love with the love of his life, Kathy Vinci.

Jim was called to serve in the Army National Guard where he served for 6 years.  He started his career in teaching and stayed for 33 years in public education at Pittsford Sutherland High School.  Over the years students often referred to Mr. Miles as, “Gentleman Jim” because he was so respectful and kind to all who walked into his classroom.  He created and developed “The Wegmans Program” which taught students the grocery business while giving practical experience.  In 2000, Jim was awarded the distinct honor, National Business Education Association’s Teacher of the Year.”  During that time he taught undergraduate and graduate classes at Monroe Community College and Nazareth University. Jim authored 3 high school textbooks for business and computing classes.  His love of education continued after he retired from Pittsford.   Jim went to work for ICLE, International Center for Leadership in Education, as a senior consultant.  He traveled throughout the United States to train teachers and assist schools for 16 years.  Former students and colleagues have referred to Jim as “,a legend in education” and left a lifelong impression on anyone whom he met.

Jim had many passions besides education.  He was a devoted husband to his wife, Kathy, for 57 years.  In addition, he adored his daughter, Jenn, and his grandchildren, Finn and Emilene.  A little known fact was he collected Santa Clauses (which stemmed from his childhood).  Come Christmas time he would decorate his entire home with them, all 600 Santa’s.  Jim enjoyed gardening and his whole neighborhood appreciated his floral talents.

Jim Miles leaves his brother, Jack Miles and sister, Debbie Pahura of Albion, NY. as well as his special Aunt Jane McCormick, many nieces, nephews, and family members whom he dearly cared for.  Jim was a loving husband, father, grandfather, friend, and neighbor who will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Celebration of Life will be on March 9, 2024 at St. Louis Church at 11:00 am, 64 South Main Street, Pittsford, NY.  In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a place close to Jim’s heart, Nazareth Elementary School at 311 Flower City Park, Rochester, NY 14615.

BROCKPORT – Marion M. Buckingham, “Songbird,” died February 29, 2024. She was born on December 11, 1935, in Douglas, Ga.

Predeceased by her parents Joe Milton Mullis and Ruth Hand Mullis; brother, Milton Mullis; and sisters, Maureen Peterson and Myrtlene Whitworth.

Survived by her sister, Joanne Mayher and brother, Carroll Mullis; children, (William) Dwight Buckingham, Michael D. Buckingham, Sharon R. Dunn and Sally F. West; grandchildren, Sarah, Jimmy, Alex, Rachel and Caroline; 5 great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Mom loved her Lord and Savior, her family, her friends, and life. She loved music. She played piano at her home church in Georgia, and she loved to sing! She enjoyed being a member of the Sweden Senior Singers for years. She was also a great volunteer, being a very proud member of the Brockport Fire Department Women’s Auxiliary for years.

The family would like to express their gratitude to the staff at The Hurlbut and the Rochester Regional Health Hospice Team. They were so caring and focused on providing mom comfort in her final days and supporting her family as well.

The family will receive friends Monday March 4, 2024 from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Fowler Funeral Home Inc., 340 West Main St., Brockport. Memorial service will be Tuesday March 5, 2024, at I p.m. at First Baptist Church, 124 S. Main Street. Graveside service will be private with family only.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the Brockport Exempt Volunteer Firemen’s Benevolent Association Inc. in Marion’s memory.

ALBION – Mark L. Powley, age 60, passed away unexpectedly at his home February 29, 2024.  He was born April 16, 1963 in Albion, a son of the late Terry and Jane (Balfour) Powley and had lived in this area all of his life.

Mark had suffered with diabetes since he was 9 years old. He graduated from Albion High School in 1981. He enjoyed baseball, old cars, fishing and going to concerts and car shows with his best friend who was like a brother to him, Jim Boyer.

Mark is survived by his brothers Donald (Michele) Powley and Jason Powley; nieces and nephews Michael, Amanda, Ruth and Hope; and neighbors who helped him.

There are no prior calling hours or services.  Arrangements were entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Albion.

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

KENDALL – David Rushbrook, age 69, died March 1, 2024, following a short illness. He was born in Albion on July 31, 1954, to the late William and Eunice (Banker) Rushbrook and was a life-long resident of this area.

David was a former employee of Eastman Kodak. In his spare time, he liked doing puzzles and was an avid fan of the Buffalo Bills and the New York Yankees.

He was predeceased by his parents; William and Eunice (Banker) Rushbrook, his sister; Eunice (Walls) Rushbrook, and brother; Lynn D. Rushbrook.

David is survived by his brother; Dale Rushbrook of Kendall and his three nephews; William Mullins of Rochester, NY, Eric Mullins of Florida, and Steven Mullins of Texas.

There will be no calling hours. Private services and internment will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Kendall Fire Department: 1879 Kendall Road, Kendall, NY 14476. David’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Chrisopher Mitchell Funeral Home of Albion. To share a memory, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com

MEDINA-James E. Howes, 76, of Medina, entered his rest on Monday, February 26, 2024 at the Village of Orleans Nursing & Rehab Center following a long illness.

Born April 20, 1947 in Medina, he was a son of the late Lloyd and Velma (Hults) Howes. Baptized in 1959, Mr. Howes was an active and longtime member of the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Albion and Middleport. He co-owned and operated DJ Janitorial, a window washing business with his wife, Pamela. Jim greatly enjoyed the sizeable yearly family vegetable garden, hunting wild game and especially reading his bible.

Predeceased by four children, Deanna Howes, James Howes, Jr., Scott Howes and Michael Howes.

Survivors include his wife, Pamela Howes of Medina; children, Jesse (Rachael) Wiig, Faith Howes (Jon Stevens), Nathanael Howes (fiancé Grace Scott), Joy (Dustin) Schuth, Douglas (April) Howes, Debra (Russell) Kellar, David Howes, Rebecca Coleman and Joseph Howes; his only surviving sibling, Carol Parker; as well as many grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

No prior visitation will be held. Family and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Talk via a zoom meeting held on Saturday, March 2 at 3:00pm. (For more information, please contact Nate Howes 585-331-9941.)

In lieu of flowers, donations toward funeral expenses would greatly be appreciated to Pam Howes, 1128 S. Main St., Medina, NY 14103. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

Robert Lynn Pinson, age 74, passed away on February 24, 2024. He was born August 5, 1949 in Montgomery, West Virginia to the late Thurman and Louise (Phalen) Pinson.

Robert was very proud to be a U.S. Army Veteran who served from 1968-1970 while stationed in Korea during the Vietnam War. He had a tremendous love for music and recently purchased a prized guitar that he always wanted. Robert enjoyed tinkering around his property, whether it was mowing his lawn, working in his wood shop or tearing out a wall, he enjoyed it all. He also enjoyed hunting in his younger years and spending time with his fishing pole with his old friend, Eddy. Of all the things Robert loved the most, it was being a father and grandfather.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his siblings, George, Sue Allport, Ray, Roy, Sharon Kay Cole, and Jimmy.

Robert is survived by his daughter Jennifer (Chris) Rogers, granddaughter Malia (Zach Assenmacher) Rogers, siblings, Sandra (Mark) Kukuvka, Daisy Pinson, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Robert’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 21 West Ave. Albion, NY 14411 on Saturday, March 2nd from 1:00-4:00 where a brief time of sharing will be held at 3:30 and military honors will be accorded at 4:00.

Memorial contributions in Robert’s name may be made to Lipson Cancer Institute C/O  Rochester Regional Health Foundations 330 Monroe Avenue, Suite 400 Rochester, NY 14607.

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

MEDINA – Elizabeth M. Mielcarek (nee Marciniak), of Medina, entered into rest on Monday, February 19, 2024 at the Orchard Manor Nursing & Rehab Center at the age of 96.

Born on April 18, 1927 in Medina, she was a daughter of the late Francis M. and Pearl (Foreman) Marciniak.

She graduated from Medina High School, Class of 1945. Mrs. Mielcarek married Stanley Mielcarek and the couple raised two sons, Terry and Bruce. Early on she worked as a telephone operator for the NY Telephone Co. in Lockport and later worked as a cook at Towne Elementary and Oak Orchard Elementary Schools in Medina. Mrs. Mielcarek was a longtime parishioner of Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church. She enjoyed arts and crafts and staying active through the Senior Citizens of Western Orleans and the Cornell Cooperative Extension.

She was predeceased by her husband, Stanley Mielcarek in 1988; brother, Homer Marciniak in 2010; and son, Terry Mielcarek in 2023.

Survivors include her son, Bruce Mielcarek of Medina; and grandson, Joshua (Abby) Mielcarek of Gasport.

Services will be privately held by the family. Interment will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com

Charles J. Eaton, age 81, of Medina, better known to many as “Uncle Chuck”, passed away suddenly on Saturday, February 17, 2024.

He was born in Medina on April 7, 1942, a son of the late Chester and Sybil (Bowen) Eaton. Chuck was raised on Murdock Road, where he attended a one room schoolhouse. He graduated from Medina High School in the class of 1960 and went on to earn a business degree from Bryant & Stratton College. Chuck married his beloved wife, Bonnie on September 2, 1967. He worked for many years for El Ray Industries in Alden and later worked as a case worker for the ARC of Orleans, where he eventually retired from, a job he thoroughly enjoyed. Chuck was a longtime member of the Medina chapter of the Sons of the American Legion, Butts-Clark Post #204. He was a proud and active member who served as Commander for many years, until his resignation just recently. Chuck loved coaching women’s softball for many years and umpired for little league baseball. He played in the euchre leagues, enjoyed golfing and playing horseshoes. Known to have a green thumb, Chuck was proud of his many flower gardens and vegetable garden. He also enjoyed spending time at his family cottage on Lake Ontario. Chuck loved a good Manhattan, “Some better than others, but never had a bad one”.  He will be remembered as a kind and thoughtful man and will be missed by his family and many friends alike.

Chuck was predeceased by his wife, Bonnie Eaton in 2019; and siblings, Jane (Donald) Crandall, Clinton “Bill” (Sarah) Eaton and Winnie Johnson.

Left to cherish his memory are his children, Donald (Tammi) Pritchard of Medina; Lisa (Paul) Miller of Oakfield, Jill Eaton of Medina and Michael (Melissa) Eaton of Clarence; grandchildren, Amanda Fitzwater, Jordan (Brett) Grollmes, Kelly Pritchard, Breanna Eaton, Jacob Miller, Gavin Eaton, Olivia Eaton, Tyler Raduns and Hailey Heimback; great-grandchildren, Patrick, Savanah, Adeline, Zoey and Ava; several nieces and nephews; and his beloved dog, Charlie.

A Celebration of Uncle Chuck’s Life will be held on Saturday, March 9 starting at 4PM at the Sacred Heart Club, 189 N. Gravel Rd., Medina, NY 14103. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to ARC GLOW at www.arcglow.org. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

GASPORT- Keith M. Scharping, 91, of Gasport, husband of the late Clara Mae Scharping, entered into rest suddenly on Friday, February 16th, 2024. Born on September 21st, 1932, in the Town of Ridgeway to the late Charles and Ethel (Nee Morton) Scharping. Keith was a production worker retiring from Lyndonville Canning Co. He enjoyed playing pool, Ping-Pong, reading, and movies. His most important thing in life was his family. Keith enjoyed spending time with them all and made each individual member of his family feel like they were the most important and the favorite.

Surviving are his children, Pamela Leiter (Steve), Peggy (Mike) Caleb, Patty Carpenter (Todd Flynn), and Charles (Linette) Scharping; his sister, Charlene (Joseph) Kozlowski; a daughter-in-law, Emma Scharping; his grandchildren, Bradd Scharping, Jesse (Kristie) Leiter, Michael (Jennifer) Wolkonowski, Joshua (Janelle) Wolkonowski, Jacob (Martha) Scharping, Brandi Scharping, Daniel Cooke, Christina Walsh, Edward Scharping, Rachel Scharping, Hannah Scharping, Sarah Scharping, Jenna (Tre) Allport, Kali Scharping, numerous great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, also survived by a special family friend Mark Colton.

Keith is predeceased by his oldest son, Keith M. Scharping Jr.; his siblings, Vesta Scharping, Donald (Beverly) Scharping, and George (Joan) Scharping.

Services will be held privately at the convenience of his family. Arrangements entrusted to Bogan and Tuttle Funeral Home. Please visit https://www.bogantuttlefunerals.com/