LYNDONVILLE – Joyce E. Robinson, 98, of Lyndonville, NY entered into rest on Saturday, May 10, 2025 at the LeRoy Village Green Nursing Home.

Born in the Town of Somerset on June 27, 1926, she was a daughter of the late Alfred and Anna (Pitcher) Higgs. On May 2, 1947 she married the late Cleon L. Robinson and together they built their own house in Lyndonville, where they raised their family of three children. Joyce worked for Fisher-Price for many years and eventually retired to spend time traveling with her husband.

Left to cherish her memory are her children, Sheila (Larry) Foote of Brockport, Claudia (Ronald) Smith of Kendall and Scott (Lisa) Robinson of Honeoye Falls; grandchildren, Amy (Richard) Dunn, Ryan Williams (Teri Caldwell), Laura (Jon) Neubauer, Christopher (Keli) Williams, Hannah and Haley Robinson; nine great-grandchildren; her sister, Jane Girard; and several loving nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents and husband, she was predeceased by brothers, Alfred, Earl and Harold Higgs; and sisters, Sally Harrison, Alice Hoste, Donna Barber and Caryl Poyfair.

Joyce was a parishioner of the County Line Country Church, Lyndonville. She was known to be the best chocolate chip cookie baker ever. Joyce enjoyed playing cards, bingo and was a fan of the Buffalo Bills and the NY Yankees. Most importantly, she loved spending time with her family.

Joyce’s Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, June 27 at 11AM at the County Line Country Church, 1385 County Line Rd., Lyndonville, NY 14098. Interment will be in Lynhaven Cemetery. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina, NY. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

KENDALL – Richard “Dick, Larry” P. Meiers, age 65, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on May 9, 2025. He was born June 30, 1959 in Brockport to Ernest and Carol Meiers.

Dick enjoyed hunting, golfing, fishing, softball and bowling. He was proud to have bowled several 300 games in his lifetime. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, a true family man that was so very proud of his entire family, especially his grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his loving wife, Judy, in 2020; father, Ernie Meiers; and father-in-law, Edward Graczyk.

Dick is survived by his children, Shawna (Eric) Benson, Justin (Andrea) Meiers, grandchildren, Everitt and Colton Benson, Jameson and Waylon Meiers; mother, Carol Meiers; sisters, Joy (Steve) Cliff, and Ann (Steve) Callicutt; mother-in-law, Velma Graczyk; sisters-in-law, Nancy (Dave) Cole, Connie (Tom) Barrett, and Terri-Sue (Andy) Spooner; several nieces, nephews, cousins and special friends, Bruce Marshall, Jeff Cliff and Mike Furness.

Dick’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 16650 State Route 31 Holley, NY 14470 on Wednesday, May 14, from 6 to 8 p.m. Private interment will be held in Greenwood Cemetery in Kendall.

Memorial contributions in Dick’s name may be made to Journey Home Inc. 994 Long Pond Road Rochester, NY 14626.

To share a special memory of Dick’s, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

MIDDLEPORT – Shirley Mae Pritchard, age 88, died May 9, 2025 in Medina Memorial Hospital’s North Wing. She was born July 4, 1936 in Ransomville, NY to Leslie and Geraldine (Behm) Waters and had lived in this area most of her life.

Shirley was a member of St. Stephen’s Parish and regularly attended Bible study there. She enjoyed painting, authored several children’s books, and enjoyed traveling, baking and flying.

Mrs. Pritchard was predeceased by her husband, Willard Pritchard Jr.; and her brother, Gordon Waters.

She is survived by her sons, Willard (Deborah) Pritchard III of Middleport, L. Scott (Jerryann) Pritchard of Middleport, and Benjamin Pritchard of N. Tonawanda; her daughters, Amy (Jeff) Strickland of Medina, Tammy Pritchard of Australia, and Ann (Joseph) Blake of N. Tonawanda; her sister, Carol Waters of Middleport; 15 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren as well as several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends at the Bates, Wallace & Heath Funeral Home, 38 State Street-Middleport, on Monday from 5-8 p.m. only.  Family and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday at Holy Trinity Parish-Medina, beginning at 11 a.m.

Interment will follow in St. Stephens Cemetery-Middleport. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Patient Activity Fund of North Wing, c/o Medina Memorial Hospital, 200 Ohio St., Medina, NY, 14103.

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

HOLLEY – James F. Herring, Sr. age 87, passed away May 7, 2025 at Strong Memorial Hospital. He was born May 21, 1937 in Rochester to the late George and Muriel (Lenz) Herring.

Jim was the owner and operator of West Ridge Realty and Herring Enterprises for many years. He built countless homes in Orleans County during his time at the family business. He enjoyed spending time at home, watching the New York Yankees, Buffalo Bills and Fox News.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his daughter Karen Kane, and several siblings.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Sybil (Furness) Herring, sons James Herring, Jr., George (Clarissa Gallup) Herring, adopted daughter Hailey (Tyler Spall) Herring, grandchildren Stacy (Nick) Leone, Jimmy (Fiancée Bella Natalie) Herring III, Nicole Mcphal, Eddie Kane, Jordan Herring, Haiden Herring, several great-grandchildren, siblings, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Jim’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 16650 Route 31 Holley, NY 14470 on Monday, May 12th from 4:00-7:00pm. His funeral service will be held Tuesday at 11:00am at the funeral home, Interment will follow in Hillside Cemetery in Holley.

Memorial contributions in Jim’s name may be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

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

MEDINA – Family and friends of Allan J. Kropf are invited to call from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Monday at the Burdett & Sanford Funeral Home, 11 Maple Avenue in Oakfield.

A Masonic Service will be held at 6:30 p.m. Monday. Al’s memorial service will take place at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday at the funeral home, followed by burial with military honors at 11 a.m. at the Western New York National Cemetery in Pembroke.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of Orleans County, the Medina Senior Center, or the First Presbyterian Church of Medina.

Please leave a condolence, share a story, or light a candle at www.burdettandsanford.com.

LOCKPORT – Anthony J. Parada entered into rest May 2, 2025.  Born October 5, 1938, he was the son of Edward and Christine (Rydzewski) Parada.

Anthony retired from Harrison Radiator in 1999 after 40 years. He enjoyed golfing, playing cards and being with his family.

Predeceased by his wife Antoinette (Stevens) Parada and son Eric Parada. Beloved father to Marc Parada. Cherished grandfather of Emma Parada. Predeceased by brothers and sisters. Also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Friends may call Friday, May 9, 2025 from 4-7 at the Taylor & Reynolds Funeral Home, 70 Niagara Street, Lockport, NY, where prayers will be help at 9:30am. A Mass of Christian Burial at All Saints Parish will be celebrated at 10:00 am Saturday, May 10, 2025.

Interment at a later date will be in Mt. Albion Cemetery.

BURT, NY – Yvonne Buzard (nee Hafner) of Burt, NY passed away peacefully on the morning of Saturday April 26^th 2025, in Florida, with the love of her family surrounding her.

Yvonne was born June 2^nd, 1951 then attended Brockport High School.  She enjoyed a long career at Kodak and spent 25 years in retirement. In her free time Yvonne loved to go camping, fishing and visiting family and friends.  She loved all things Lucille Ball, Pepsi and Campbell’s soup (memorabilia).  She loved to listen to all kinds of music, and especially enjoyed live music, and would often attend local events during the summer months.  She loved Elvis and always enjoyed the times that she was able to see his impersonators over the years.

Yvonne loved to help people out and to make people laugh and often would show up at just the right time.  She always had cookies/candy, toys or dog treats in her car to share when she would stop in for a visit.  She enjoyed attending services at Community Fellowship at Johnson Creek, and spending time with her family. She will be dearly missed.

Yvonne will be lovingly remembered by her daughter Yvette (Mark) Barnett of Florida, siblings Joanne (Gary) Lines of Niagara Falls, Donald (Joanne) Hafner Jr. of Lyndonville, David Hafner, nieces Dawn (Neil) Hungerford and Tania (Brad) Freeman, along with numerous family members and friends.

Yvonne was predeceased by her mother Jackie (Bob) Rowling and her father Donald Hafner Sr.

A celebration of Yvonne’s life will be held on Sunday, May 25^th at 1pm at The Gathering Place, 6515 Ridge Road, Lockport, NY.

HOLLEY – Michael R. Ruggles passed away unexpectedly on April 29, 2025, at the age of 44.  Predeceased by his grandparents Raymond and Virginia Ruggles and Robert and Bertha Whipple.

He is survived by his parents Ronald and Deborah Whipple, baby sister and best friend Amanda (Moises) Casarez, sisters Jennifer Cieslinski and Cynthia Murray, brother Lance Whipple, right hand man and cousin Andrew Ruggles, childhood best friend and cousin Keith (Michelle) Tophan, nieces and nephews Kaden, Nayelli, Justin and Kaylee and Bobby, aunts, uncles and cousins.

Mike was a faithful follower of the band Phish.  He was an avid sports fan, and he loved to travel.

Family will receive friends on Monday, May 12, 2025 from 5-7 pm at Fowler Funeral Home Inc. 340 West Ave., Brockport where a funeral service will follow at 7 pm.  Those wishing may contribute to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, by clicking here, in honor of Mike.

ALBION – Rae Greco passed away May 4, 2025 at home, surrounded by her beloved family. She was born September 26, 1927 in Albion, NY, the daughter of James and Sarah (Burgio) Pilato.

Rae graduated from Albion High School and the State University of New York at Albany with graduate work at the University of Buffalo. Her teaching experience, in English and foreign language, began in Northern New York State and continued after her marriage to Joseph C. Greco July 25, 1951. She taught at Wilson High School and retired as a permanent substitute teacher in the Lockport School System.

Rae was a devoted member of St. John the Baptist Church and it’s Altar and Rosary Society, a longtime member of Lockport College Women’s Club, the Kenan Arts Council, the Western New York Retired Teachers Association and the New York State Retired Teacher’s Organization.

She is survived by her children John (Christine) Greco, Kathryn (Joseph) Manley and Joan (late Charles) Aul; grandchildren Matthew, Joshua, Daniel and Samuel Greco, Ryan (Grace) Manley and Megan (Louis) Feaman and great grandchildren Luke and Isabella Rae Manley and Logan, Kathryn and Everett Feaman.

In addition to her parents, Rae was predeceased by her husband Joseph Greco, who passed away in 1979, her sister Florence Burnett and her grandson Mark Conlen Manley.

She will be deeply missed by many close friends who dearly loved her and were considered part of her cherished family.

There will be no prior visitation. A mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 10, 2025 at St. John the Baptist Church, 168 Chestnut St., Lockport, NY.

EAST MACHIAS, ME – Bessie Ziehl, age 83, passed away peacefully on April 26^th, 2025 in the loving care of Down East Community Hospital.

Born November 2, 1941 to Lloyd and Margaret Bailor in Clearfield, Pennsylvania, Bessie went on to marry and have 3 children: Penny Woods (Dave) Walter Passmore Jr (Andrea) Pauline Mattatall (Rocky). After having her children Bessie moved to NY settling in Albion, NY with her loving Husband Jerry Ziehl better known as “Pap-Pap”. Bessie worked for General Motors for 25 years and owned Pap-Paps Par 3 for 17 years to provide a better life for her family.

Along with her children, she leaves behind 13 grandchildren, 29 great grandchildren, and 3 great-great grandchildren. Special friend Nina, Sharon, Ron and Leslie, Lloyd and Wendy, loved as her own. Though gone from our sight forever in our hearts.

KENDALL – Dorothy Ann Butler formerly of Kendall, recently of Brockport, age 90, became her family’s angel on May 1, 2025 in her home surrounded by her loving family and care-giving friends. Dorothy was born on June 3, 1934, in Rush, NY to her late parents, Mercedes and George Bancroft.

She graduated from Kendall Central High School in 1951. Dot worked at Kodak in Rochester, NY and at Duffy Motts plant after graduation. In 1956, Dorothy joined her high school sweetheart, Harry Butler, in Frankfurt Germany where he was deployed in the U.S. Army.

The couple was wed in Frankfurt on March 2nd by the Germans and March 3rd by the Americans. Her husband would often remark how wonderful it was to have wed his bride twice therefore providing a one-day grace period for the remembrance of the occasion. The newlyweds returned to the states in 1957 with their first of three girls on the way. Throughout the following years Dorothy was happily involved in dance with all three daughters and subsequently her granddaughters as well.

Dot was an avid seamstress and could often be found designing and sewing costumes and fashionable outfits for her girls and granddaughters. Dorothy was a devout Catholic and a member of St. Mary’s and St. Mark’s congregations and enjoyed singing in the church choir.

She and Harry were a vital part of the Democratic Party and attended conferences, held meetings, posted signs and campaigned on behalf of many local candidates. Dorothy loved her home, working outside and keeping her yard impeccable. She could often be seen perched upon the mower turning ordinary blades of grass into a scenic, park-like setting.

Dot and Harry both loved to dance; especially to live country bands. Over the years many people were entertained by their dancing synchronicity, and they became known as the “local Fred and Ginger.” Dorothy now joins the love of her life (Harry Butler) in Heaven where they shall dance together for eternity.

Dorothy is survived by her three daughters, Rhonda Steffen (Doug), Amy Morgan (Bud) and Daphne Bremner (Phil); grandchildren, Rachael Blair (Kent), Tiffany Burke (Joe), Niome Vick and Andrew Bremner (Alexis); great-granddaughters, Serina Petry (Scott), Nora Bremner, Khurstie Blair, Kayden Man and Kylee Morgan; great-grandson, AJ Morgan; great-great grandsons, Hank Petry, Waylon Petry, Beau Petry and Kacen Kasper; great-great granddaughters, Madison Grady and Maleigha Kasper; and sister, Evelyn Taylor (Carl).

Dorothy is preceded in death by her siblings, George Bancroft, Virginia Miller, Edward Bancroft, Mercedes Patt and Roy Bancroft.

The family will receive friends at the Christoper Mitchell Funeral Home, 16650 State Route 31, Holley, NY 14470 on Monday, May 5, from 4 to 6:30 p.m. where her service and celebration of life will be held on May 6 at 10 a.m. Interment will be held directly after the service at Greenwood Cemetery in Kendall. All are welcome to attend.

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

MEDINA – Grace M. Guzik (née Kopitzki), of Medina, NY passed away peacefully at home with her family by her side on Saturday, December 21, 2024.

Born October 20, 1939 in Yates Center, she was a daughter of the late Fredrick “Daddy” and Norma (Thompson) Kopitzki.

Grace was a lifelong resident of the area. In August of 1955 she married the late Raymond Guzik at Sacred Heart of Jesus R.C. Church in Medina. Grace loved to feed people and help those in need.

Early on Grace worked as a waitress, which led to a long career in food service. She owned and operated the former Park Lunch Diner on Park Avenue in Medina for many years. Grace later owned Ray’s Diner on Commercial Street and did a lot of catering work.

Public service was important to Grace and giving back was in her nature. Her family told stories of her generous efforts to feed the people of Medina during the Blizzard of ’77. A faithful person, Grace was a parishioner of Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church in Medina. Her home served as a hub for many family gatherings. Described as a selfless person, Grace was a natural caregiver.

In addition to raising her own children, she adopted her beloved daughter, Lois Davis, at a young age and later in life has been a selfless caretaker for her grandson, Bobby. She will be deeply missed by all that knew her.

In addition to her parents, Grace was predeceased by her husband, Raymond in 2009; and siblings, Fredrick “Fritz” Kopitzki, Norma Chambers, Paul “Corky” Kopitzki, Marie Dewitt and Raymond “Butch” Kopitzki.

Left to cherish her memory are her children, Robert (Holly) Guzik, Debra (Peter) Bjornsen, Laura (Keith) Ward, Mary (Dawn) Guzik and Lois Davis; grandsons, Mark Guzik, David Guzik and Bobby Guzik; her sister, Barbara (Fred) Eggleston; and several nieces and nephews.

Her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, May 24 at 11 a.m. at Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church, 211 Eagle St., Medina. Interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Medina Lions Club, P.O. Box 511, Medina, NY 14103 or to the Visually Impaired Advancement at www.viawny.org. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

MEDINA – Janice R. “Jan” Cramer, 83, of Medina, NY, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, April27, 2025, at Buffalo General Hospital.

She was born on a small farm in northern New York, Town of Rutland, to the late Carleton G. and Margaret (Marvin) Cramer on February 25, 1942, the last of four children.

Jan taught early secondary English from January 1964 through June 1995 at Wise Junior High/Middle School.

She was a long-time member of the First Baptist Church of Medina, serving at various times as choir director, Trustee, Deacon, member of Board of Christian Ed, and teaching 4th grade Sunday School, followed by youth, and finally adults. A favorite passion of hers was creating, coordinating and being musical director of the annual Medina Area Association of Churches Resurrection musical. For several years, she served as member/officer of the Child Welfare Association of Orleans County.

Jan’s bio reads in part “I am single, never married, and have three adopted children… I was born with music and writing in my soul…” She continuously added family history and other important writings to her family archives for future researchers and some self-published writing of books.

She is survived by her three children, Lisa (Earl) Kidney of Sanford, NC, Ruth Ann Cramer of Medina, NY, and Jason (Katie Blount) Cramer of Medina, NY, seven grandchildren, Amanda Johnson, Joseph Cramer, Jeremy Cramer, Garrett Kidney, Jailyn Cramer, Madison Blount, and Ava Thompson, and nine great-grandchildren. Also surviving is a sister, Nancy Gates of Lisbon, NY, a sister-in-law, Judy Cramer of Windsor, CA, and several nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents, Jan is predeceased by her brothers, Robert Cramer, Donald and Phyllis Cramer. and a nephew, Kern Cramer, and a grandson Tyler Kidney.

Relative and friends may attend a Going Home Service on June 8th, 2025 at 1:00 PM at the New Hope Community Church, 203 W Center St, Medina, NY 14103, formally the First Baptist Church of Medina. Burial will be at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Jan’s name to the New Hope Community Church. Arrangements were entrusted to the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St. Medina, NY 14103.

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

INVERNESS, FL – Joyce A. Cook, age 82 of Inverness, Florida passed away peacefully on April 17, 2025 at Vitas Hospice Care Center.  Born on March 25, 1943, in Medina, New York, she lived a life marked by devotion to family, faith, and friendship and left an amazing legacy to her family.  She was an amazing mother, grandmother, friend and devoted wife and will forever be in our memories.

Joyce was the beloved daughter of Glenn and Nola (Austin) Hill.  She graduated from high school in Medina in 1961 and later earned an Associate of Art Degree from Genesee Community College.  Her professional journey included dedicated services as an Accounting and Administrative Assistant at Parsons/Agway Oil in Medina, Griffith Energy in Rochester and Rochester Button Company.  After relocating to Florida, she continued to share her talents part-time at Como RV in Inverness.

A woman of deep faith, Joyce was a devoted member of Cornerstone Baptist Church in Inverness.  She found strength and community through worship services and Bible study groups and was baptized alongside her husband – a moment that reflected their shared spiritual journey.

Her passions were many and varied – she loved water aerobics and was a longtime member of Citrus Hills Golf & Country Club where she attended classes weekly for years.  She had a keen interest in family genealogy and proudly traced her lineage back to Richard Warren, a passenger on the Mayflower, this led Joyce to become a proud member of the General Society of Mayflower Descendants.  As she discovered such historical military connections within her family, her dedication led her to becoming a member of The Daughters of The American Revolution.  Joyce also enjoyed arts and crafts, baking for loved ones, traveling the world with dear friends Vonnie Peters and Jeanne Crane, and many cruises with her husband, Ray and family, attending church events, and dining out to experience local cuisine while meeting new people along the way.

Joyce was a dedicated Sorority Sister of Sigma Lambda Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi for over six decades.  Joyce was a President and passionately enjoyed being the Treasurer.  She was crafty, talented and came up with great ideas for programs that were always interesting and fun.  Joyce was caring and very generous and readily available when needed.  Her Sorority Sisters loved her and will miss her very much.

Joyce faced her diagnosis of Stage 4 pancreatic cancer with remarkable courage and grace over the last two years of her life.  Her resilience inspired all who knew her.  Joyce was fondly thought of by her medical team and staff.  She always managed to have a smile on her face with a sense of humor that was infectious by all.

Joyce was preceded in death by her husband, Raymond E. Cook Jr. of 59 years, with whom she shared a loving marriage rooted in faith and mutual respect.  Together they raised two children: David S. Cook of North Chili, New York and Lori A. Fortunato of Inverness, Florida.  Joyce found immense joy in her role as a grandmother to Nathan J. Rosenthal and Nicole L. Rosenthal of New Jersey, cherishing the special memories they created during summers spent together in Florida and holiday gatherings.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, June 7^th, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Walsh Hotel, 525 West Avenue, Medina, New York.  Joyce will be laid to rest at Millville Cemetery, Medina, NY.  Cremation care by Chas E. Davis Funeral Home with Crematory, Inverness, Florida.   In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to the American Cancer Society.

MIDDLEPORT – Donna M. Manuel (née Begovich), 61, of Middleport, NY, passed away unexpectedly at her home on Saturday, April 26, 2025.

Born and raised in Buffalo, she was a daughter of the late Walter and Jean (Gesse) Begovich. Donna was a graduate of Kenmore East High School.

On March 5, 2005 she married Samuel W. Manuel.

She worked for many years as a customer service representative for Starline Inc. in Grand Island. Donna was a lifelong devoted fan of the Buffalo Sabres and Buffalo Bills, and enjoyed cheering her teams on through all the highs and lows.

She combined her love of photography, gardening and birds by capturing beautiful photos of those visiting her garden. She was known for her peanut butter cookies, her love for the Christmas season and her knack for being able to find the perfect gift. The greatest joys in Donna’s life were her grandchildren. She was deeply loved and will be missed by all.

In addition to her parents, Donna was predeceased by her son, Steven W. Darrow.

Left to cherish her memory are her husband, Sam Manuel of Middleport; sons, Dennis (Gina) Darrow of North Tonawanda and Christopher (Baylee) Darrow of Melbourne, FL; sister, Kristina (Tad) Dolinar of Town of Tonawanda; and beloved grandchildren, Mason, Kaiser and Emilia; and many extended family members, friends and her beloved dog, Dayze.

Visitation will be held on Friday, May 2 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Bates, Wallace & Heath Funeral Home, 38 State St., Middleport, NY 14105. Her funeral service will also be held at the funeral home the next morning, Saturday, May 3 at 11 a.m. Interment will be in Mount View Cemetery in Olean, NY at a later date.

Share memories and condolences at www.mitchellfamilyfhs.com.

HOLLEY – Gary R. Whitney, age 71, passed away with his loving family at his side on April 25, 2025. He was born October 20, 1953 in Rochester to the late Donald and Joan (Milne) Whitney.

Gary proudly served in the Navy and retired with a rank of Chief Warrant Officer-2 after 20 years of active duty. Gary was a Batman enthusiast, collecting anything Batman related throughout the years.

In addition to his parents, Donald and Joan, he was predeceased by his brother, Donnie Whitney.

Gary is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Sandra; daughter, CarriAnn (Neil Musshafen) Whitney; siblings, Karen Sheldon, Sharri (Bill) Thomas, SuAnne Quackenbush and Dennis (Mary) Quackenbush; granddaughter, Desarae (Cody); great-grandchildren, Joshua, Everly, Cash and Kayden; as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

There are no prior calling hours. A service to celebrate Gary’s life will be held at the New Hope Community Church (formerly First Baptist Church of Medina), 203 West Center St. Medina, NY 14103 on Thursday, May 1st at 11 a.m. Military honors will be accorded immediately following the service at the church.

Memorial contributions in his name may be made to Hospice of Orleans, 14080 Route 31 Albion, NY 14411.

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

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

HOLLEY – Charles R. “Charlie” Downey, age 62, died suddenly April 24, 2025.  He was born May 25, 1962 in Brockport to Richard “Rit” and Mary (Ophardt) Downey and had lived in this area all of his life.

Charlie was a retiree of RG&E and had also retired from the Genesee Orleans Ministry of Concern. He was a former member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Hamlin, and enjoyed spending time at his camp in the Adirondacks.

Charlie enjoyed riding motorcycles, 4 wheeling, going to auctions, working on tractors and tinkering in his shop. He was extremely family oriented and was a man who’s life revolved around helping other people. His support, love and laugh will be greatly missed.

Mr. Downey was predeceased by his mother, Mary Downey.

He is survived by his father, Richard “Rit” Downey of Holley; his sister, Denise Johnstone of Holley; his brother, Eric (Elizabeth Sullivan) Lusk of Hamlin; his nieces and nephews, Ryan (Jamie) Johnstone, Joel (Anna) Johnstone, Kelsie (Joshua) Vogt, Hillary Lusk and Owen Lusk; a great nephew, Miles William Johnstone; as well as several cousins and dear friends.

The family will receive friends on Friday May 2^nd from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 16650 State Rt. 31-Holley, where his funeral service will be held following visitation beginning at 7 p.m.

Interment in Parma Union Cemetery will be held at the convenience of the family.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Genesee Orleans Ministry Of Concern, 29 East State St., Albion, NY, 14411.

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

SHELBY – Charles E. “Huck” Fuller, 90, of Shelby, NY, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Tuesday, April 23, 2025 at Medina Memorial Hospital, under the care of Hospice of Orleans.

Charlie was born on November 1, 1934 in the Town of Royalton. He was a son of the late Wilbert and Edna (Harch) Fuller.

Charlie married the former Shirley Glena on February 11, 1956. Together they made their home in Shelby and raised a family of five children.

Charlie had a strong work ethic. He worked for Keeler Construction for over 30 years. He was also a jack of all trades who was able to fix almost anything. Charlie was a lifetime member of the Shelby Volunteer Fire Co., active during his younger years. He was known for his dry and witty personality and will be lovingly remembered as a kindhearted individual that loved to laugh and make others laugh.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by the love of his life, Shirley Fuller in 2020; daughter, Cathy; son, Douglas; siblings, Roger, Glenn, Norm (Lou), James, Jaydee, Gordon (Cheri), Tom (Jeanne), Rosemary, Louretta, Mildred and Catherine; son in-law, David L. Smith; sister in-law, Barbara Fuller; and brother in-law, Charles Wilson.

He is survived by his children, Michael (Sandy) Fuller, Cindy Smith, Mark (Letty) Fuller and Connie (Phillip) Zimmerman; grandchildren, Michelle, Chad, Amy, Brandon, Aaron (Steph) and Jason (Autumn); several great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; siblings, John Fuller (Judy), Alroy (Gail) Fuller and Cecelia Wilson; brother and sisters in-law, Edward Pray, Pat Fuller and Vera Fuller; and an abundance of nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Hospice of Orleans for the heartfelt care they gave Charlie over the past year.

A celebration of life and dinner will be held on Friday, May 2 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Shelby Vol. Fire Hall, 4695 S. Gravel Rd., Medina. Interment will be privately held in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Shelby Vol. Fire Co., P.O. Box 1, Medina, NY 14103 or to Hospice of Orleans www.hospiceoforleans.org.

Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share memories and condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.