Obituaries
Posted February 20 2024
Keith M. Scharping
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/
Posted February 19 2024
Joan J. Cherry
AKRON – Joan J. Cherry, age 92, entered into rest February 17, 2024 at Absolut Care in Gasport. She was born February 7, 1932 in Royalton to the late Charles and Esther (Brewer) Criswell.
After graduating from Akron Central Schools, she was a beautician and owned her own salon in Akron, and later ran Criswell Insurance Co. with her husband. In her free time, Joan enjoyed painting, gardening and sewing. In earlier years, she was a very active member of the East Shelby Community Bible Church.
In addition to her parents, Joan was predeceased by her husband, Richard Cherry; brother, Charles Criswell; and niece, Sue Ann Criswell.
Joan is survived by her sisters-in-law, Doris Criswell and Irene Cherry; niece, Karen (Thomas) Hopkins; nephew, Brian (Jackie) Criswell; great nieces and nephews, Stacey (Matt) Johnston, Becky (TJ) Rudz, Katie (Logan) LaFave, Andy (Mary) Criswell, Aaron Criswell (Kayla) and Tyler Criswell (Danielle); great-great nieces and nephews, Ainsley, Jayson and Emmett; as well as many other nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Joan’s family will receive friends at the East Shelby Community Bible Church, 5278 E. Shelby Rd-Medina, on Saturday, March 2, from 10-11 a.m. where her memorial service will follow at 11 a.m. Interment will be in Huskey Cemetery with her husband.
Memorial contributions in Joan’s name, may be made to the Wolcottsville Fire Co., 6337 Wolcottsville Rd., Akron, NY, 14001 or to the church. Joan’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Sherrie Bream Funeral Home of Gasport. To share a special memory of Joan, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.
Posted February 19 2024
Rev. Joseph G. Fifagrowicz
AMHERST – Rev. Joseph G. Fifagrowicz, February 17, 2024, at age 86.
Loving son of the late George and Anna; dear brother of Emily (late Arthur) Czajkowski and the late Josephine (John) Czajkowski, Angeline (Stefan) Toman, Helen Fifagrowicz, Adolph Fifagrowicz and Theresa (Raymond) Sedor; also survived by nieces and nephews.
Visitation at the KOLANO FUNERAL HOME, 396 Amherst St. (near Grant) Tuesday, February 20th, from 2-7 p.m. Rev. Fifagrowicz will lie in state Wednesday morning from 10:30-11:30 a.m. at Assumption R.C. Church, 435 Amherst St., where a concelebrated Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:30 a.m. The Most Reverend Michael W. Fisher, Bishop of Buffalo, will be the principal celebrant. Interment St. Stanislaus Cemetery.
Fr. Joe, was ordained into the priesthood, March 17, 1962. He served as pastor of numerous parishes in the Catholic Diocese of Buffalo, including Medina, NY. Fr. Joe also served as chaplain, at Sisters Hospital. Please share your online condolences at www.KolanoFuneralHome.com.
Posted February 18 2024
Joanne M. Zimmerman
MEDINA – Joanne M. Zimmerman, 94, of Medina, died on Friday, February 16, 2024 surrounded by her loving family at the Medina Memorial Hospital-North Wing Skilled Nursing Facility.
Joanne was born in Medina on August 21, 1929, a daughter of the late Joseph and Ervanna (Bowen) Menke.
Joanne, alongside her older sister, Flora Linda, grew up on West Center Street. She graduated from Medina High School and went on to earn a nursing degree from the University of Rochester School of Nursing.
Joanne worked as a Registered Nurse at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester and moved home to Medina after she met the love of her life, John E. “Jack” Zimmerman. The couple were wed on June 28, 1952 at St. Mary’s R.C. Church. Together they raised eight children in the home that her grandparents built on West Center Street, located just across the street from her own childhood home. Once her youngest child was in school, she returned to nursing and retired from Medina Memorial Hospital in 1991.
Friends and family remember Joanne as the mother they wish they had. Joanne’s West Center Street home was a hub of activity, a gathering place for all of her children’s friends. Whether setting an additional place at the dining table, a sleepover, or summertime at the family cottage on Lake Ontario, Joanne was at the center of every activity.
The congregation at St. Mary’s Church will remember the Zimmermans traipsing into church each Sunday to sit in front of the pulpit as Father delivered the weekly message. The older children may remember the early years at the cottage with weekly Sunday sailboat races, where Joanne was the hostess behind the scenes. Summertime at the cottage meant baths in the lake, heating water on the stove and no TV.
Summer never began until Joanne’s sister, Flora Linda, arrived with her family from California for a visit. Even though she lived her entire life within a three-block radius, it was in 1970 that she and Jack took to the road, taking the entire family on a summer vacation around the United States with ten people in a nine-passenger station wagon with a seventeen-foot travel trailer in tow.
She made a traditional family dinner every night, which was more like a banquet for ten. Every birthday was a holiday, and every holiday was a special time for a family celebration. Though Joanne was not a fan of the cold, she enjoyed driving her children to Gallagher’s Hill for sledding and participating in ice boating on Glenwood Lake. She only ventured into Lake Ontario once a summer for her annual swim. Grandchildren will remember her watching them swim, bonfires at the lake, her sense of community and the life lessons she imparted on them.
While raising her large family, Joanne also had an active social life through her sorority, bridge club and Coterie with friends known as the Dutch Treat Crowd. Although anxious when put on the spot or in the spotlight, Joanne was often a behind the scenes instigator of practical jokes, mischief and other merriment without parallel. She will be dearly missed.
Joanne was predeceased by her husband, John E. Zimmerman 2004; and son, Robert A. Zimmerman 1992.
Survivors include her children, John E. (Christine) Zimmerman, F. Linda Knipe, Joseph (Carol) Zimmerman, Mary (Thomas) Robinson, Phillip (Connie) Zimmerman, Joanne A. Zimmerman and Carl (Sally) Zimmerman; 17 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; sister, Flora Linda Sardina; many nieces and nephews; and several dogs and grand-dogs.
Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 20 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina, NY 14103. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, Feb. 21 at 11 a.m. at Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church, 211 Eagle St., Medina. Interment will follow in Boxwood Cemetery.
Following the services, the family would like to invite everyone to join them at the Sacred Heart Club, 189 N. Gravel Rd., Medina, for a funeral luncheon and Celebration of Joanne’s Life, where the sharing of memories and stories by family and friends will be encouraged.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in her memory to the Orleans Community Health Foundation at www.supportoch.org, the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org or to a charity of choice. Please share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.
Posted February 17 2024
Laurie Sultzbach
Laurie G. (Burns) Sultzbach – (Boston Skippy) – passed into the presence of God on February 15, 2024. Laurie was born on July 16, 1952 and was predeceased by her parents, Richard and Joan Burns.
She is survived by her beloved son, Brian Sultzbach of Greece, NY and her rescue dog Tanner.
Friends of Laurie describe her as a determined and protective mother, an avid Boston Red Sox fan, a dog lover, a clam chowder snob (loved it from Wild Flour Deli), a good friend, big-hearted, a voracious reader, tenacious, resilient, a straight talker, prickly, a user of a colorful vocabulary, a lover of a good laugh and a faith-filled person.
Laurie graduated from Spencerport High School, worked in the Accounting Department at Orleans County, and retired from there in 2017. She was a member of Albion First Presbyterian church and gave generously of her time to various projects there. She will greatly missed by all who knew her.
Laurie’s memorial service will be held at the Albion First Presbyterian Church, 29 E. State St. Albion, NY 14411, Saturday February 24, at 11 a.m. Memorials may be made to the Albion First Presbyterian Church or to Lollypop Farm, 99 Victor Rd, Fairport, NY 14450.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Mitchell Family Cremations and Funerals, Inc. To share a special memory of Laurie, visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.
Posted February 16 2024
Genevieve “Jean” Karls
ALBION – Genevieve “Jean” Karls, age 95, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2024 surrounded by her family. She was born September 20, 1928 in Albion to the late Valentine and Wanda (Bloom) Marks.
Jean was a longtime member of Holy Family Parish – St. Joseph’s Church where she helped with the bereavement committee and also served as Eucharistic Minister. She truly enjoyed cooking, traveling and tending to her flowers. Jean also liked to hang out with her friends at the senior citizen events and go to her breakfast club at Subway. Going to any event that Office for the Aging was holding helped her socialize and keep busy.
In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Chet; and siblings, Leonard Marks and Margaret Jaworski.
Jean is survived by her son, Bruce (Cindy) Karls; grandson, Marc Karls; as well as several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.
Jean’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 21 West Ave. Albion, NY 14411 on Tuesday, Feb. 20, from 4 to 6 p.m. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Joseph’s Church, W. Park St. Albion, NY 14411 on Wednesday at 10 a.m. Interment will follow at Mt. Albion Cemetery.
Memorial contributions in Jean’s name may be made to Hospice of Orleans, 14080 Route 31 Albion, NY 14411 or Office For the Aging 14016 Route 31 Albion, NY 14411.
To share a special memory of Jean, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.
Posted February 13 2024
Carlos J. Vega
ALBION – Carlos J. Vega, age 46, died February 11, 2024 due to a long illness. He was born July 25, 1977 in Rochester to Antonio and Lydia (Torres) Vega and had lived in this area for most of his life.
Carlos was a very adventurous person who enjoyed anything to do with being outdoors. He was a sports fan, especially NASCAR and also enjoyed watching College Football. Carlos was a very social person who would always be considered the ‘Life of the Party.” He enjoyed playing cards, game night, and was a very competitive person. He was also very family oriented and really enjoyed spending time with his father taking care of their roosters. Mr. Vega was predeceased by his father, Anthonio “Carlos” E. Vega.
He is survived by his children: Tony E. Vega of MI, Tiffany (Colin Papaj) Rowley-Vega of Holley, his grandson: Ezra, his sisters: Janette Padilla of Rochester, Jacklyn Taylor of Lockport, his mother: Lydia Vega of Albion, his grandmother: Maria Ortiz or Rochester, his beloved friend: Becky Karls as well as several nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles.
The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 21 West Avenue-Albion, FRIDAY February 16,2024 from 11-1 where his Funeral Service will be held immediately following visitation at 1pm. Interment will follow in Mt. Albion Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association, 160 Allens Creek Rd., Rochester, NY, 14618. To share a special memory of Carlos, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com
Posted February 13 2024
Norman G. “Bud” Lake
Norman G. “Bud” Lake, age 90, of Lyndonville, entered peacefully into rest on Sunday, February 11, 2024 at the Martin-Linsin Hospice Residence in Albion.
Norm was born March 21, 1933 in Medina, a son of the late Homer J. and Thelma M. (Plummer) Lake. He was a graduate of Lyndonville High School, Class of 1952. In his younger years, Norm worked alongside his father on their family farm before starting his career with Harrison Radiator Division of GM in Lockport. He left his job at Harrison to serve his country in the US Navy from 1956-1958. He served aboard the USS Saufley and served in the reserves after active duty from 1958-1962. Returning home he went back to Harrison Radiator for 35 years, retiring in 1988. Norm was Past Commander of Houseman Tanner Post #1603, American Legion in Lyndonville and was a member of Lincoln Post #1483, VFW in Medina. For many years Norm served on the local veteran’s honor guard according military honors at funerals for his fellow veterans. An outdoorsman, he also enjoyed fishing and hunting. Norm will be remembered as a kind and gentle man and will be missed by his family and friends.
In addition to his parents, Norm was predeceased by his sister, Judy Appleby; niece, Elaine McPherson; great-niece, Pamela DeFazio; great-nephew, Donald Seitz; and brothers in-law, Harry Conner and Ronald Jones.
Survivors include his sisters, Lauritta Conner and Marylon Jones; companion, Patricia McGaffick; brother in-law, James Appleby; and several nieces and nephews.
His graveside committal service with full military honors will be held on Monday, February 19 at 11:00am in Lynhaven Cemetery in Lyndonville. Flowers are gratefully declined. Memorial donations may be made to Operation Honor, 415 West Avenue, Suite 2, Medina, NY 14103 or at www.operationhonorofwny.org or to Hospice of Orleans at www.hospiceoforleans.org. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Please share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.
Posted February 12 2024
Annette M. Dix
LYNDONVILLE – Annette M. Dix, 81, of Lyndonville, NY, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 11, 2024, at home surrounded by her loving family.
Born on November 3, 1942, in Medina, NY, she was the daughter of the late Bernard and Dorothy (Davis) Allen.
Annette, also known as Annie and Nettie to her friends, graduated from Lyndonville Central School in 1960. She was a proud Lyndonville Tiger Cheerleader. On September 24, 1960 she married David Dix, also of Lyndonville. Together they raised four children, Dawn, Kelly, David Jr., and Derek. Annette was a very busy stay-at-home mom when the kids were young and she spent years teaching them by example how to be good people. As the kids got older, Annette went to work at Meland’s Home Furnishings as a Sales Clerk, and later worked as a clerk for Provisions Pharmacy, both in Lyndonville. Annette was instrumental in organizing the sports boosters in Lyndonville and served as a Cub Scout Den Mother and a Brownie Scout Leader. She belonged to St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church in Lyndonville where she volunteered with the Rosary and Altar Society. Annette did her duty as a good citizen and member of the community by working at the elections. She taught her children to have respect and a sense of responsibility for family members, friends, community, and perhaps most importantly, themselves. Annette loved to sing, dance, and play cards and board games, and she instilled a love of those things in her kids. Annette always supported her children in their endeavors and adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Annette is preceded in death by her parents Bernard and Dorothy Allen, father- and mother-in-law Robert and Ethel Dix, and brothers Richard and Robert Allen. She is survived by her loving husband David; sister Debbie (Jeff) Jackson, four children, Dawn (Steve) Fraser, Kelly Dix (Greg Weier), David (Erica) Dix, Jr., and Derek (Vickie) Dix, Sr., grandchildren, Daniel Fraser, Hollie Fraser, Derek Dix, Jr., Alexa Dix, Andrew Dix, Cali Pietroboni, Connor Bell, Mel Eggleston, Cameryn Keesler, and Chase Hartnett, several great grandchildren, and many beloved nieces and nephews.
The entire family would like to express sincere gratitude to the entire staff of Hospice of Orleans, especially Jennelle Andrews who provided excellent care and guidance during difficult times.
Family and friends may call on Thursday, February 15, 2024, from 2-4 PM and 7-9 PM at the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St. Medina, NY 14103, where a funeral service will be held Friday at 11:00 AM. Burial will be private for the family.
In lieu of flowers, donations or memorials may be made in Annette Dix’s name to: Hospice of Orleans, 14080 NY-31, Albion, NY 14411 or to: Orleans County Office for the Aging, 14016 NY-31 W, Albion, NY 14411.
Please light a candle or share a memory of Annette at www.bogantuttlefunerals.com
Posted February 11 2024
Carolyn J. House
HAMLIN – Carolyn J. House passed away on her terms surrounded by family, on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at the age of 72.
She was predeceased by her parents Paul and Ruth Reid, brother Harold Reid, nephew David Schimp, uncle Mel and aunt Lorraine.
She is survived by her loving husband of 54 years, Gary; daughters Kimberly (Michael) Kuhn, and Kelly (Tony) Faro; grandchildren Aaron Gerwitz, Mackenzie Gerwitz, Jacob Gerwitz, Michael Kuhn, Maddie Kuhn, Alyssa Faro and Tegan Kuhn; sister Beverly Schimp; brother Gordon (Karen) Reid; many nieces and nephews as well as brothers- and sisters-in-law Larry (Sarah) Zeliff, David (Donna) Miller and Doug (Lisa) Miller.
Carolyn was an exceptional wife, mom, grandmother, businesswoman and friend to all. She was an active member of the Morton Baptist Church. Carolyn would never pass up an antique shop. She enjoyed her corvette and corvair (Carolyn’s “grocery getter”). She loved to travel and enjoyed NASCAR and drag racing. Most importantly, Carolyn enjoyed rooting for her grandchildren during all their events.
Family will greet friends for calling hours on Friday, February 16th from 4-7 pm at the Morton Baptist Church, 1152 County Line Road, Hamlin, NY 14464. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, Feb. 17, at 11 a.m. also at the Morton Baptist Church.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing may contribute to the Morton Baptist Church in Carolyn’s memory.
Arrangements entrusted to the Fowler Funeral Home Inc.
Posted February 11 2024
Roger “Rogie” A. Kingdollar III
HOLLEY – Roger “Rogie” A. Kingdollar III, 24, passed away unexpectedly February 8, 2024. He was born January 24, 2000, in Brockport, a son of Quenna (Jason Reed) Bennett and Roger (Margaret Gonzales) Kingdollar, Jr. and had lived in this area all of his life.
He enjoyed motorcycles, dirt bikes and mudding trucks and hanging with his friends. But most importantly he loved spending time with his family, especially his nieces and nephews, whom he adored.
Roger was predeceased by his brother Raymond, grandfather Roger Kingdollar, Sr. and his uncle Terry Moyer.
In addition to his parents, he is survived by his sister Vanity (Randy Dash) Bennett; his brother Jon (Corie Read) Kingdollar; maternal grandmother Diana Moyer; paternal grandmother Linda Kingdollar; his nieces and nephews Randy Dash, Jr., Ethan Bennett, Destiny Swan, Braden Read, Michelle Lonnen and Raymond Kingdollar; aunts and uncle Timmy (Tammy) Kingdollar, Ann (Dennis) Buzard, Serena (Colleen) Bennett, Tracy (Amy) Moyer as well as several other aunts, uncles, cousins and many friends.
The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, 16650 State Rte. 31 Holley, on Tuesday, Feb. 13 from 4 to 6 p.m. where his Celebration of Life Service will be at 6 p.m.
To share a memory of Roger, visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.
Posted February 08 2024
Marilyn J. Hoffmeister
MEDINA – Marilyn J. Hoffmeister, age 88, of Medina, entered into rest on Tuesday, February 6, 2024 at the Martin-Linsin Hospice Residence in Albion.
Born January 29, 1936 in Attica, NY she was a daughter of the late Theodore and Mary (Wolcott) Young.
Marilyn was born and raised in Attica and graduated from Attica High School in 1955. She married Richard W. Hoffmeister and the couple raised a family of six children. They lived in Darien for many years and the family moved to the Albion area in 1973. In 2009 she moved to Medina.
A lover of nature and its beauty, Marilyn was a talented landscape artist and painted using various mediums. She was a natural problem solver and was known to be able to fix just about anything. She assisted her son Bernie in many home renovations over the years. Always one to stay busy, Marilyn enjoyed working alongside her husband running their yard sale business in Shelby. A devoted mother, wife and grandmother, she was a true matriarch and pillar of her family. A kind and compassionate person, Marilyn was not only a mother, but a best friend and confidant. She will be dearly missed.
Marilyn was predeceased by her husband, Dick Hoffmeister in 2005; and her only sister, Silvia (Chuck) Yueckstock.
Left to cherish her memory are her longtime companion, Herbert Brant; her six children, Vicky (Edward) Houseknecht, Mari Hoffmeister, Richard W. (Dawn) Hoffmeister, Jr., Bernie (Edee) Hoffmeister, Rusty (Holley) Hoffmeister and Michael (Linda) Hoffmeister; 14 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be privately held by the family and interment will be in Millville Cemetery, East Shelby. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of Orleans County at www.hospiceoforleans.org or to a charity of one’s choice.
Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.
Posted February 07 2024
Nicole Marie O’Sullivan
ALBION – Nicole Marie O’Sullivan, age 34, passed away unexpectedly on February 5, 2024 and met her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. She was born September 30, 1989 in Rochester to Mary Lynn Jesenski and Patrick G. O’Sullivan.
Nicole was a 2007 graduate of Albion High School. She truly loved animals of all shapes and sizes, especially her dog and cat. Nicole was at peace during time outdoors, going for walks on the canal and around a nice campfire. Her greatest love and joy was her two beautiful children.
Nicole was predeceased by her paternal grandparents, Daniel and Joan O’Sullivan.
Nicole is survived by her daughter, Kolbe G. Ames, and son Thomason N. Travis; mother, Missy (Tim) Delamarter; father Pat (Dawn Dominguez-Salerno) O’Sullivan; brother, Raymond (Jacqueline) Santiago; maternal grandparents, Roberta and William Jesenski; as well as many aunts, uncles and many cousins.
Nicole’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 21 West Ave. Albion, NY 14411 on Saturday, Feb. 17, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and her Celebration of Life Service will be held at Harvest Christian Fellowship, 560 East Ave. Albion, NY 14411 the same day at 1 p.m.
Flowers are gratefully declined and please consider a donation in Nicole’s memory to help her children further their education with checks payable to Patrick O’Sullivan C/O Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 21 West Ave. Albion, NY 14411.
Posted February 07 2024
Mary Ann Wilson
ALBION – Mary Ann Wilson, age 81, died February 6, 2024 at Elderwood of Brockport following a brief illness. She was born June 3, 1942 in Medina to Franklyn and Margaret (Hoffman) Neal and was a life-long resident of this area.
Mary Ann worked at several retail stores in the area and was involved in many activities throughout the community. She enjoyed baking and making pies for the Albion Elks Club, making Christmas cookies for her friends every year and particularly enjoyed her weekly Tuesday morning breakfast club group including longtime friend Elaine Miller.
Ms. Wilson was predeceased by her parents and a sister: Nancy Neal.
She is survived by her son, Keith (Audra Klein) Wilson of Holley; her brother, Edward (Lillian) Neal of Albion; her sister, Patricia Neal of DE as well as several nieces and nephews.
Per Mary Ann’s wishes, there will be no calling hours or services. A private interment will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Hospice of Orleans 14080 Route 31 Albion, NY 14411.
Mary Ann’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home of Albion. To share a special memory of Mary Ann, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.
Posted February 06 2024
Ralph J. Patt
KENDALL – Ralph J. Patt, age 98, died February 5, 2024 in Unity Hospital. He was born May 18, 1925 in Kendall to George and Elizabeth (Schwartz) Patt and was a life-long resident of this area.
Ralph was a long-time member of the Kendall Fire Department, a member of the NY Saab Club, and was part owner of the family farm. He enjoyed farming first and foremost but in addition to that, he enjoyed camping, painting, woodworking, model railroading, going to truck and tractor events and Saab cars. Ralph was very meticulous and mechanically inclined. He will be remembered as a very happy, mild-mannered and humble person with a heart of gold. Mr. Patt was predeceased by his wife Lorena as well as his brothers George, Howard and Edward.
He is survived by his sons: Ronald (Judy) Patt of Brockport, James (Deborah) Patt of Clarendon, his grandson: John Patt, his sister: Margaret Buell of Kent as well as several nieces and nephews including Jason Patt.
The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 16650 State Rt. 31-Holley, FRIDAY from 1-3pm followed by his Funeral Service at 3pm at the funeral home. Spring interment will take place in West Kendall Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Kendall Fire Department, 1826 Kendall Road, Kendall, NY, 14476. To share a special memory of Ralph, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com
Posted February 06 2024
Theresa M. VanAuker
MEDINA – Theresa M. VanAuker, of Medina, passed away peacefully at home with her loving family by her side on Sunday, February 4, 2024.
Born April 9, 1947 in Medina, she was the daughter of the late Leo J. and Victoria (Szczechowiak) Grabowski. Theresa graduated from Sacred Heart School and then Medina High School in 1965. She went on to earn an associate’s degree in secretarial science from Bryant & Stratton College.
In 1970 she married the late Jerit L. VanAuker, Sr. and the couple raised a family of four children. Theresa was employed at Rochester Products Div. of GM in Rochester for many years. She enjoyed sewing, arts and crafts, collecting birdhouses and anything bird or rooster themed. Theresa loved spending time with her family and hosting family gatherings. Known as someone who always put others first, Theresa will be remembered as a kind and loving person and will be dearly missed by her family and friends.
In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Jerit VanAuker, Sr. in 2009; brother, James L. Grabowski, Sr. in 2022; Nicholas Mastromonico; and her beloved dog, China.
Left to cherish her memory are her children, Jerit (Lisa) VanAuker, Jr., Deana Daniel, Todd VanAuker and Leighann VanAuker; grandchildren, Matthew (Thaara) VanAuker, Melissa (Duell) Brinn, Jeremy VanAuker, Drew Daniel, Tyler Daniel, Karsen VanAuker and Joshua Zimmerman; five great-grandchildren; a brother, Edward (Lori) Grabowski; and several nieces and nephews.
A private graveside committal service will be held in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Medina. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to PAWS Animal Shelter, 3371 Gaines Basin Rd., Albion, NY 14411. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.
Posted February 05 2024
Irene Jane (Mullins) Drennen
ROCHESTER – Irene Jane (Mullins) Drennen Irene went home to the Lord on February 3, 2024. She was the oldest child of Ira and Rosa Bell (Koch) Mullins, born December 24, 1929 at Queen Shoals, Clay County, West Virginia.
She married Jernie A. Drennen July 21, 1946 at Clay West Virginia. The family moved to New York after Jernie was paralyzed in a mining accident. Irene found work wherever she could, and she retired from Owens Illinois in 1984 after 19 ½ years.
Growing up during the Great Depression and World War II taught Irene how to work hard and survive. She worked for everything she had and took pride in her home, gardens, and flower beds. She loved her “Babies” and could not wait to see them when they came to visit. She enjoyed traveling with family and Richard for his Air Force reunions, which is evident in the multitude of pictures.
Along with her parents, Irene was predeceased by her husband of 48 years, Jernie Drennen; sons, Clarence “Butch” Drennen and Damon “Duke” Drennen; daughter, Louise Kuhns; grandson, William Carleton; siblings, Oliver Mullins (in infancy), Darryl “Moon” Mullins, Virgle Mullins, Pearl Davis and Vera Mae Daniels. She was also predeceased by her special friend, Richard Meinhardt.
Irene is survived by her daughters, Patricia (Charles Jr) Andrews of Albion, Susie Rushbrook of Albion; daughter-in-law, Marie Drennen of Brockport; daughter-in-law, Betty Drennen of China Grove, NC; siblings, Bob (Mary) Mullins of Albion and Rosetta (Elbert) Patton of Sanford, NC; 10 grandchildren including Reni (Calvin) Maines of Mifflin, Pa.; 13 great-grandchildren and 5 great-great grandchildren. She also leaves behind special friends, Sandy and Dirk Climenhaga.
The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 21 West Ave Albion, NY on Saturday, Feb. 10, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. where a time to share stories and celebrate her life will follow at 12 p.m. Burial will be beside her husband Jernie at Mt. Albion Cemetery.
Posted February 05 2024
John Donald Zaranek
TONAWANDA – John Donald Zaranek, born April 30, 1983, beloved son, brother, friend, boyfriend, Pearl Jam enthusiast, and green thumb master gardener, departed us to be alive in the super unknown on January 27, 2024.
He joins his best pal Payton Bojangles Zaranek on the preternatural other plane along with his grandfather Donald George Ferris Jr, grandmother Carole Catherine (Schenk) Zaranek, aunt Jennifer Ferris Dart, and cousin Cory Andrew Zaranek.
He is missed infinitely by his father John Robert (Gail) Zaranek; mother Stephanie Margaret Ferris, beloved girlfriend Amy Hecko; sister Kate (Eric) Zaranek; brother Stephen Zaranek (Nichole Lewis); best bud bud Victoria Zaranek (Joe Scibilia), sister Kara Zaranek; nieces Evelyn, Ava, Beatrice, and Fiona; nephews Jack, Ruben, and James; grandfather John C Zaranek; grandmother Patricia Ferris; uncles Andrew Zaranek (Sue Busshart-Piejda) and Darrell Dart; aunts Laura Zaranek and Diana Ferris, and countless friends who were also family. His pets Marvin, Ziggy, Jimi, Gilly, and Lonzo (and some surprise fish) are all in the loving care of friends and family.
A memorial service to share stories and laughs will be held at Elks Lodge in Tonawanda at 55 Main Street on Saturday, February 10 beginning at 10:30 am followed immediately by lunch. Cash bar is available afterwards.
Donations can be made to Erie County SPCA in lieu of flowers.
Go Bills. Go Sabres.
Posted February 03 2024
Juston L. Smithey
MEDINA – Juston L. Smithey, age 50, of Medina, formerly of Texas passed away unexpectedly on February 2, 2024. Born in Midland, TX on June 28, 1973, he was a son of Anthony Q. Smithey and grew up in the Dublin, TX area.
Juston honorably served his country in the U.S. Army from 1996-1999. He was a proud member of the 101st Airborne Division, 3rd 502nd Regiment and was honorably discharged with rank of E4.
Juston and his wife, Dorene (Ogden) Smithey moved to Medina in 2015 to be closer to family. Juston was the proud owner/operator of Lone Star BBQ serving delicious BBQ throughout Orleans County. He also enjoyed coaching his son’s little league baseball team through Loyal Baseball.
Juston was predeceased by his father, Anthony Q. Smithey in 2014.
Survivors include his wife, Dorene Smithey; daughter, Sarah Graham; son, Anthony “AJ” Smithey; and two brothers, Johnny Smithey and Joe Smithey.
Private interment with full military honors will be accorded at the WNY National Cemetery in Pembroke. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.
Posted February 03 2024
Martin ‘Marty’ LiCursi
GREECE – Martin Joseph “Marty” LiCursi, age 79, passed away unexpectedly on January 18, 2024. He was born in Brockport, NY on August 7, 1944 to the late Martin and Della (Rocco) LiCursi.
Marty is survived by his sister, Mary Ann (James) Mulkin; niece, Lori (Darren Annis) Mulkin; and great-niece, McClaren Flanders.
There are no services for Marty, per his wishes.
Memorial contributions in Marty’s name may be made to Lollypop Farm.
Arrangements for Marty have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home of Albion, NY.
To share a special memory of Marty, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.