Obituaries

HOLLEY – Patricia A. DeFilipps, age 90, passed away January 4, 2024, at Hildebrandt Hospice Care Center. She was born October 31, 1933, in Olean, NY, a daughter of the late David and Nora (Hammer) Wilson.

Pat was a member of St. Mary’s Church in Holley, a former member of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas and the Jewell Buckman Post #529 Ladies Auxiliary. She had worked at various jobs throughout her life including Hickory Ridge retiring due to ill health. Pat enjoyed crafting, crocheting, baking and loved spending time with her family.

Pat was predeceased by her husband Michael in 2013 and son Michael in 2022.

Pat is survived by her daughters, Debra DeFilipps of Holley and Janet (Steven) Smith of Brockport; son, Patrick (Kris Moore) DeFilipps of Clarendon; grandchildren, Tricia DeFilipps, Natalie (Randall) Kelder, Geoffrey (Janice) Smith, Corina (Jeffrey Stonewell) DeFilipps and Nicholas DeFilipps; great-grandchildren, Leila and Jeffrey Stonewell, Addison and Michael Kelder, Nathaniel Smith, JJ, Samantha, Madeline and Annabelle Sharp; daughter-in-law, Marla Sugar; sister-in-law, Mary Ellen DeFilipps; sisters, Carol Glasspoole and Doloras Ripple; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Pat’s family is so grateful to the staff at Hildebrandt Hospice for the loving care given to Pat.

Pat’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes 16650 State Route 31 Holley on Sunday January 14, from 1 to 4 p.m. Pat’s Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday January 15, at 10 a.m. at St. Mary’s Church. Interment will be in the spring at Holy Cross Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Rochester Regional Health Foundation/Hildebrandt Hospice Care Center 330 Monroe Avenue, suite 400, Rochester, NY 14067.

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

Susan Kate Bradley passed away unexpectedly January 3, 2024 at Strong West in Brockport, NY.  Born August 21, 1957 in San Diego, California, she moved around with her family while her father was in the Navy.

She cultivated an early interest in the outdoors into a lifelong passion for natural beauty. Susan earned her bachelor’s degree in education and substitute taught at local schools before settling down to raise her family.

Susan was an avid genealogy sleuth, able to repair and confirm genealogical lines back many generations, some tracing back to the Mayflower. She was also a wonderful cook who took pride in her own scratch-made bread and soups, even maintaining hydroponic vegetable and herb gardens in a dedicated room in their home. Susan loved being a grandmother and she was loved by all who knew her. She always put others before herself and she will be sorely and deeply missed.

Susan is survived by her mother Barbara Kenyon; husband Raymond; children Joy Roberts, Andrew (Lydia) Bradley, Melody Bradley, and Benjamin (Danni) Bradley; grandchildren Aria and Andrew Bradley Jr.; and siblings Vernon (Rocky) Bartz, Judy Hiney and Daniel Bartz, as well as several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, 21 West Avenue in Albion, Tuesday, January 9th from 2 to 4 p.m. where her funeral service will follow at 4 p.m.  Memorials may be made to the organization of your choice.

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

LYNDONVILLE – Howard A. Geiger, age 74, passed away at home in Maryville, TN, on January 1, 2024.

Howard was a Scout Master of Troop 25 in Lyndonville, NY. He was a loving father, husband, Papa, and friend, and will be missed dearly.

Howard is preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Ruth Geiger; sister-in-law, Cheri Geiger; and guide dog, Tanya.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Carol; sons, Howard (Jennifer) Geiger, Charles Geiger and Steven (Christina) Geiger; daughter, Marcie (Chad) Waterson; 11 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; brother, Robert Geiger of Medina; sister, Carol (Victor) Bobzien; and several nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in Lyndonville.

MIDDLEPORT – Gerald Jay Milliman II, age 71, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2024 at the Niagara Hospice House. He was born April 27, 1952 in the Town of Groveland, NY to the late Gerald Jay (Virginia) Milliman.

Jay was a graduate of Royalton Hartland Central Schools and worked for 13 years at Simonds Steel, 12 years at Packaging Corp of America and retired from Jamestown Container in 1999. He was known as the jokester of the family, life of the party, an outgoing and social butterfly as well. He loved classic cars, often times watching car auctions on the TV, and mowing and snow blowing videos on YouTube when he didn’t have the strength to do it himself. Jay was quite fond of “Duct Tape” and lived up to the saying “Jerry rigged”.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his siblings, Mark and Deborah.

Jay is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Debra Ann (Glena) Milliman who he married in 1972 and spent over 51 married years together. Also surviving are his three daughters; Tiffany Ann (Michael) Williamson, Trisha May (Mike Diel) Milliman, Trinity Jay (Austin) Doepp, grandchildren; Michael Aaron Williamson, Christopher Williamson, Nicholas Williamson, Brooke Williamson, soon to come grandson; Dawson Jay Doepp, his siblings; Timothy Lee Milliman, David Wayne Milliman as well as several loving nieces, nephews and cousins.

A time for family and friends to gather to celebrate Jay’s life will be held at the Bates, Wallace & Heath Funeral Home 38 State St. Middleport, NY 14105 on Saturday, January 6th from 1 t 4 p.m.

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

ALBION – Mary Jane Narburgh, age 95, passed away on December 31, 2023 at Strong Memorial Hospital after a short illness. She was born August 16, 1928 in Albion to the late Harry and Lillian (Stevens) Farnham and lived in the area her entire life.

Mary Jane was an avid card player, and retired from Albion Central Schools as a bus driver. She was an active member of the Snowmobile Club and Barre Sportsmens Club.

Mary Jane was predeceased by her husband, Stanly N. Narburgh, and daughter, Diana N. Sanford.

She is survived by her daughter, Elizabeth “Betty” N. Bloom; son, S. Steven Narburgh; sister, Delores Mathews and brother, Robert Farnham. Also surviving are 10 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, 15 great-great-grandchildren, special family members, Ted and Seanne Narburgh, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Services for Mary Jane will be held at the convenience of the family.

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

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

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

ALBION – Martin Craig Basinait, 74, passed away after a long and exhausting battle with Parkinson’s Disease on December 28, 2023. He was born on April 5, 1949 to the late Louis Charles and Mary (Bokman) Basinait.

Marty lived in Albion his whole life, graduating from Albion High School and then attending Cornell University. He returned to marry his high school sweetheart and start a family just down the road from his parent’s farm. He had many interests and there was nothing he couldn’t build, fix, or drive.

He opened Basinait’s Gulf in 1973 and ran it fulltime until he took a director’s position at Western Regional Off Track Betting. He was named Vice President in 1981 and ten years later became President and CEO. He spent years laying the groundwork for the hugely successful Batavia Downs we know today. He retired in 2011 after more than three decades with WROTB, and unfortunately was unable to pursue his passions of fly-fishing and fast cars because of health issues.

Marty was predeceased by his parents, his older brother, Michael, and his first love, his wife Carol.

Marty is survived by his four children, Lisa (Jon) Pritchard, Stacey (Nathan Olewnick) Basinait, Samuel (Tenzing Youdon) Basinait, and Alissa (Matthew Cochrane) Basinait; his brothers Charles (Andrea) Basinait, Joseph (Cindy) Basinait, Laurence (Donna) Basinait; and his sister-in-law, Sarah Basinait. He will also be deeply missed by his nieces, nephew, his great-niece and nephew, and his only grandchild, Carol Grace Pritchard.

There will be calling hours at Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home on Thursday January 4th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., followed by a service at 2 p.m. There will be a private burial at St. Joseph‘s Cemetery where he will be laid to rest next to his wife, Carol.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to Orchard Manor Rehabilitation would be greatly appreciated. The kindness and love of his caregivers on Unit 3 was a true blessing in his last days. To share a special memory of Marty, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

LOCKPORT – Dean R. Broeker

May 16, 1945 – December 24, 2023 of Lockport, NY.

Devoted husband of Sharon (nee Fingerlow) Broeker; father of Gerald and Tammy; brother of Robert (Michal) Broeker. Dean was also survived by extended family members, friends who became family and adored by his faithful dog Lucy. 

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

To leave an online condolence, please visit: www.eriecountycremationservice.com.

BARRE – Norman L. Loss, 65, passed away peacefully December 26, 2023, following a short illness. Norman was born in Albion, NY., September 18, 1958, a son of Ernest and Betty (Daniels) Loss.

Norman was a 1978 graduate of Albion High School. He was a life member of the Barre Sportsmen’s Club, Crusaders Motorcycle Club and a charter member of the Albion Rod and Gun Club. Norman enjoyed spending time outside trap shooting, snowmobiling, hunting, fishing and for the past 36 years, camping at Old Forge, NY. His greatest joy was camping with his grandchildren.

Norman is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Debbie; daughters Jennifer (Stephen) O’Brien and Reita (Keith) Fletcher; grandchildren Lauran, Shawn and Keegan O’Brien, Aubrey and Paxton Fletcher; his parents Ernest and Betty Loss; brother Ernie (Chris) Loss Jr. and his uncle that was like a brother to him, Charles (Janet) Loss, and several nieces, nephews, cousins.

Norman’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes 21 W. Avenue, Albion on Friday December 29, from 1-3 p.m. and 5-8 p.m. Services and interment will be private.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN, 38105

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

ALBION – Richard Krantz, age 72, died December 25, 2023 in his residence following a long illness.   

He was born October 2, 1951 in Clarence to Walter and Mary (Young) Krantz as had lived in this area all of his life. Mr. Krantz was predeceased by his parents. 

He is survived by brother: Frederick Krantz of Clarence and a sister: Alia Witt of CA; as well as all the staff and his peers at the 257 North Main Group Home.         

There will be no calling hours. A graveside service at Acacia Park Mausoleum will be held on Tuesday January 2, 2024 at 10 a.m. Richard’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home of Albion. To share a special memory of Richard, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com 

GASPORT – Carol E. Rairie, age 80, went to be with her Lord and Savior on December 23, 2023. She was born July 6, 1943 in Lockport to the late Louis F. and Margaret L. (Brown) Bauer.

Carol loved doing anything sewing related. Oftentimes, she would crochet, sew and quilt many blankets. She also enjoyed going camping, reading, gardening and tending to her beautiful flowers. Carol was a Registered Nurse and worked at Medina Memorial Hospital for over 30 years before her retirement.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband Dallas Rairie in 1996 and step-son, Dallas Rairie Jr. in 1991.

Carol is survived by her siblings, Becky Bauer, Margaret (Tim) Hedgpeth, Mel (Sherry) Bauer, Charlene (Dan William) Cobb, step-daughters, Linda L. (Jerry) Ark, Cindy (Bill Kaufman) Milliman, 5 step-grandchildren, Jeremy (Lauren) Sharpe, Christopher (Holly) Ark, Cassidy (Chris Foshee) Milliman, Brittany Shea Fox, Jaimie (John Hixenbaugh) Rairie as well as many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins and friends.

Carol’s family will receive friends at the Sherrie Bream Funeral Home 4521 Main St. Gasport, NY 14067 on Friday, December 29th from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. where her funeral service will follow at 12 p.m. Interment will be held in Hartland Central Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in Carol’s name may be made to Faith Bible Baptist Church 3064 N Gravel Rd, Medina, NY 14103.
To share a special memory of Carol, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

KENDALL –  Joyce C. Pulver, age 83, died Dec. 25, 2023 in Elderwood of Lakeside at Brockport.  She was born Jan. 12, 1940 in Hornell to Lorraine “Boomer” and Arlta “Mildred” (Burdick) Claire and had lived in this area over 50 years.

Joyce was a graduate of Alfred-Almond Central School and also had attended Alfred State University.  She was a member of the Oak Orchard Yacht Club, and was a former Dispatcher for the Spencerport Volunteer Ambulance.  Joyce enjoyed word-search puzzles, was an avid reader…especially of romance novels, and watching The Price is Right on TV. 

Mrs. Pulver was predeceased by her brother: Sydney Clair. She is survived by her husband of over 60 years John, her sons: Timothy Pulver of MS, Stephen Pulver of Irondequoit, and her granddaughter: Abby Grace Pulver.

There will be no calling hours. Her graveside service will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family in Whitehaven Memorial Park.  In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to: The Kendall Fire Department, 1879 Kendall Road, Kendall, NY, 14476.  Joyce’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home of Holley.  To share a special memory of Joyce, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com

Donna E. Barber passed away on Saturday December 23rd at Niagara Hospice House. Born in Barker, NY on September 5, 1931, she was the daughter of the late Alfred and Anna Grace Pitcher Higgs.

Donna loved traveling to Florida with her husband Robert, whom she was married for 56 years and sadly passed away on December 8, 2006. She also loved square dancing and spending time with her family.

Donna is survived by her children Randy (Shonda) Barber, Terry Barber, Deborah (Dewey) Paris, Wendy (David) Milliman and Connie (Bill Nye) Sharpsteen; grandmother of Robert (Nicole) Barber, Jennifer (Brad) Conklin, Bryant Smith, Matthew (Kelly) Milliman, Justin and AJ (Becca) Sharpsteen; great grandmother of Wyatt Barber, Liam Conklin, Madelyn Milliman, Harrison Milliman and Nora Conklin.

She was the sister of Joyce (late Leon) Robinson, Jane (late Edward) Girard and the late Earl, Alfred and Harold Higgs, Carolyn Poyfair, Alice Hoste and Sally Harrison. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

Friends may call on Wednesday December 27th 4-7 PM at Prudden and Kandt Funeral Home, 242 Genesee St., Lockport.  A graveside service will be held on Thursday, December 28th at 11 a.m. at Hartland Central Cemetery, Ridge Road, Hartland. Online condolences at www.pruddenandkandt.com.

MEDINA – Charlotte S. McAdoo passed away peacefully at home with her loving family at her side on Thursday, December 21, 2023 at the age of 65.

Born December 10, 1958 in Lockport, she was a daughter of the late William “Don” McAdoo and Pearl (James) Miller. Charlotte was a lifelong resident of Medina. She enjoyed traveling and taking car rides. She loved butterflies and had a sweet tooth for chocolate. Charlotte took pride in helping to raise her beloved nieces. Family was the most important part of Charlotte’s life. She will be dearly missed by all that knew her.

In addition to her parents she was predeceased by her great-niece, Shuanna Thomas.

Left to cherish her memory are her siblings, Sharon McAdoo, Brenda McAdoo, Frank (Darlene) McAdoo, Barb (Nate) Starling and Joanne (Bill) Johnson; cherished nieces and nephews, Nichole McQueen, Tania (Louis) Corrado, Kimberly McAdoo, William McAdoo and Kasey (Joey) Raab; several great-nieces and nephews; and two very special great-great-nephews, Mason Rodden and Saint Tabor.

A celebration of Charlotte’s life will be held at the convenience of the family. The family asks that in lieu of any memorial donations, please give a toy to a child in need this season in memory of Charlotte. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share memories and condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

ALBION – Irene M. Rouse, age 104, passed away December 21, 2023 at the Martin Linsin Hospice Residence.

Irene was born in the Town of Shelby December 26, 1918, a daughter of the late Grover and Minnie (Schultz) Bailey.

Irene had lived most of her life at Oak Orchard on the Ridge. She was married to Edward Rouse May 14, 1938 and had worked many years at Loblaws Grocery. Irene was a member of the Medina and Albion Senior Citizens. She enjoyed sewing and working in her flower garden.

Irene was predeceased by her husband Edward on December 8, 1990; grandson Brian Shawver July 7, 2002; brothers Wilson Bailey and Kenneth Prest; sisters Violet Parsels, Elva Parker, Betty Valentine and Dorothy Joy.

Irene is survived by her daughter Judy (Richard) Cox; son Jerry (Barbara) Rouse; grandchildren Steve Shawver and Heather (Steve) Marciszewski and several nieces and nephews.

Irene’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 21 W. Avenue, Albion on Thursday, Dec. 28, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., followed by her funeral service at the funeral home at 12 p.m. Interment will be in Bates Road Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of Orleans 14080 Route 31, Albion, NY 14411.

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

ALBION/KENT – Damon C. Benfer, age 23, died suddenly December 20, 2023 as a result of a motor vehicle accident.  He was born June 9, 2000 in Medina, a son of Jeff Benfer and Maria (Brabon) Vaillancourt and was a life-long resident of this area.

He was a 2018 graduate of Albion Central School and worked as a mechanic at George’s Fancher Road Service. Damon was a true outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting, fishing, sunrises, sunsets, lived for anything he could ride or drive and was a master at doing burn-outs.

He also loved animals, especially his dogs: “Saint” and “Karma”. Above all, Damon was a person who could light up a room just by walking in. He could bring a smile to anyone’s face with his humor and shenanigans no matter how bad of a day a person was having.

In addition to his parents Jeff and Maria, Damon is survived by his siblings: Anna (Christian) Green of KS, Isaac Becker of Albion; his God-children: Audra and Jonathan Albone; his grandparents: Derwin (Ilene) Benfer of Hamlin and Ernie (Gail) Brabon of Barre; his nephew: Colton Nichols; his cousins: Isabel and Susannah Benfer as well as countless aunts, uncles, cousins and friends, especially The Barn Boys.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 21 West Avenue-Albion, on Thursday, Dec. 28, from 2-4 p.m. where his funeral service will be held immediately following visitation at 4 p.m.  Private interment will be held at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Lupus Foundation of America, 2121 K. Street NW, Suite 20, Washington, DC, 20037. To share a special memory of Damon, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Frank L. Mandigo “Pops”/”Poppy”, 79, of Kendall, NY passed away on 12/20/23 surrounded by love. He was born May 27, 1944 in Watertown, NY, son of the late Lewis and Dorothy Smith Mandigo. He graduated Watertown High School in 1962.

He served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War and then worked until retirement (at an early age) at Rochester Products. He was the most generous man who loved making people smile, going fishing, hunting, telling stories and playing cards but most of all he loved his family.

He is predeceased by his stepfather Lawrence Lowe, his brother David Mandigo, and so many precious friends including his ex-wife and forever friend, Darlene Mandigo Willett.

He is survived by his adored children Dennis Mandigo, Lori Yockey, Kelly (Joe) Furness, Stacy (Jeremy) Dean-Prince; grandchildren Nichole (Roger) Phillips, Jessica, David and Nicolas Mandigo, Sam (Kim) and Mariah Giglio, Jaden and Jason Conn, Brody Furness, Jesse, Alexis, Anna, Ramsey and Alena Dean-Prince; Great grandchildren Hayley (Dylan) Phillips, Nolan Phillips and Aveena Mae Richards; Great great grandson, Lorenzo Ruffini. He will also be missed by his loving sisters Alice Sheldon, Jean Cornell and Dorothy Novotny and loving brother Bill Mandigo; Special nephew Jeff Mandigo, in addition to several other nieces, nephews and cousins. He will be fondly remembered by so many friends we couldn’t begin to name – you all know who you are.

There are no calling hours per his request. There will be a celebration of life on April 27th, 2024, details to be announced at a later date.

Donations may be made to the Wilmot Cancer Center, Rochester, NY. Frank’s arrangements have been entrusted to Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, Holley, NY

To share a special memory of Frank, please visit: Mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com

GROTON – Kevin J. Coons, age 67, died December 20, 2023 at 7:07 p.m. surrounded by his loving family. He was born April 10, 1956 in Rochester, NY, a son of the late John Bowles and Lucille (Carey) Goho.

Kevin was an auto mechanic and had owned and operated KC’s Auto Service in Brockport for many years. He enjoyed computers, woodworking, music, and playing drums.  His greatest love was spending time with his family.

Kevin is survived by his children: Michelle (Rick) Harradine, Angel (Jason) Wong, Hope-Elizabeth (John) Thayer, Christian (Quin) Coons and Linda Coons; 8 grandchildren: Dylan, Ethan, Trent Harradine, Tyler, Jayden, Landon Wong, Riley and Colton Thayer; fur grandbabies: Chai, Ember, Rocky, and Dolly; brother Terrence (Janet) Carey and brother Eddie King; sister Alice Goho; dear friends Don (Sheila) Cox, and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Kevin’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 16650 State Route 31, Holley, NY 14470, on Wednesday December 27, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., followed by his funeral service at the funeral home at 1 p.m.

Interment will be in Garland Cemetery.  Memorials may be made to Loaves and Fishes 210 N. Cayuga St., Ithaca, NY 14850.

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

HOLLEY – Donald R. Emanuele, age 82, died peacefully December 21, 2023.  He was born December 9, 1941 in Rochester to Daniel and Teresa (Stazie) Emanuele and was a life-long resident of this area.

Don was a member of St. Mary’s Church, enjoyed spending time with his family, going to the casino and scratch-off lottery tickets. He also enjoyed meeting his friends to have coffee at JP’s or Crosby’s.  He was an avid NY Yankees and Buffalo Bills fan but most of all, loved his 4 grandsons who called him Pop Pop.  Mr. Emanuele was predeceased by his longtime and loyal friend: Louis A. “Chappy” Charles.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years Judith, his children: Donald M. (Renee) Emanuele of Gates-Chili, Beth A. (Michael Lombino) Friedo of Brockport, his beloved grandsons: Jakob, Ty, Nicholas, Timothy, his special nephew: Alexander Emanuele, his brother: David Emanuele of Webster, his sister-in-law: Rena Farino of Holley as well as several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and friends.

There will be no calling hours and a private service and entombment in Holy Cross Mausoleum will be held at the convenience of the family.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: The Murray Joint Fire District, 7 Thomas Street. Holley, NY, 14470.  Donald’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home of Holley.  To share a special memory of Don, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com