Obituaries
Posted November 11 2023
Michael H. Tower

Michael departed this world on September 27, 2023, at the age of 42, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, and unwavering devotion.
Michael was born on August 28th, 1981, in Rochester NY to Beverly J Salisbury and Michael Tower. He grew up in Albion NY, where he quickly became known for his infectious smile, boundless curiosity, and his fun-loving spirit.
Michael met the love of his life, Sarah Laubacher, in 1998, and their union was a testament to the enduring power of love and partnership. Together, they had four children, Tristan Tower, Mackenzie Tower, Caiden Tower and Parker Tower instilling in them the values of compassion, integrity and imagination that Michael held dear. He cherished his role as a parent and later as a grandparent, finding immense joy in watching his family flourish.
Michael had a passion for art which he pursued with enthusiasm and skill. Whether it was drawing, repurposing found materials, or building art pieces from scratch, he approached each endeavor with a zest for life that inspired those around him. His love for these activities not only brought him joy but also served as a source of connection and camaraderie with friends and loved ones.
Michael had a keen sense of humor, a warm and welcoming demeanor, and an ability to make anyone feel at ease in his presence. His friendship was treasured by many, and his wisdom was sought after by all who knew him.
Michael was predeceased by his mother, Beverly Salisbury, and father, Michael Tower; his wife, Sarah Laubacher; and his son, Tristan Tower.
He is survived by his children Mackenzie Tower, Caiden Tower, and Parker Tower and his brothers Edward Goodwin, Archie Stamp, and Zachariah Tower.
Michaels passing leaves a void that cannot be filled, but his memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and selflessness that will continue to inspire us all.
As we bid farewell to Michael, we take solace in the knowledge that he is now reunited with his beloved wife, Sarah, and son, Tristan, in a place of eternal peace. May his memory bring us comfort and his legacy continue to shine brightly in our lives.
Michael, you will be deeply missed, but your legacy will forever be a guiding light in our lives. May you rest in eternal peace.
Posted November 09 2023
Matthew J. Robison

Born on November 24, 1978 in Medina, he was a son of Kevin J. and Nicki (Eppolito) Robison. Born with muscular dystrophy, Matt had a challenging life, but he did not let that slow him down.
Matt graduated from Lyndonville High School, in the Class of 1997. Furthering his education, he earned an Associate’s Degree from GCC and went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature from SUNY Brockport. Always known to have a book in hand, Matt had a fervent passion for reading. He was also an avid sports fan and racing fan. He was a diehard fan of the NY Yankees, Buffalo Bills and Man City. He also enjoyed NASCAR and Formula 1 racing.
Family was the most important thing to Matt. Whether it was helping his dad at work, keeping score at his brothers’ soccer games or rooting for his nieces and nephews at their sporting events and activities, Matt was always there to lovingly support his family in any way he possibly could. Well known in the Lyndonville community, Matt also enjoyed participating in many community events and fundraisers over the years. Matt’s life was blessed by his beloved nieces and nephews, Nathan, Eva, Adeline and Cooper, who enriched his life beyond measure. He loved to watch them grow and was proud to be their uncle. He will be dearly missed by his loving family, friends and all that knew him.
Matthew was preceded in death by his maternal great-grandmother, Leora Meland; maternal grandfather, “Papa” John Eppolito; paternal grandparents, Lewis and Agnes Robison; and uncle, Ken Robison.
Left to cherish Matt’s memory, are his loving parents, Kevin and Nicki Robison of Medina; brothers, Kyle (Kristen) Robison of Lockport and Adam (Lauren) Robison of Naples, NY; beloved nieces and nephews, Nathan Robison, Eva Robison, Adeline Robison and Cooper Robison; maternal grandmother, Judy Eppolito; uncle, Jack (Deby) Eppolito; aunt, Jill Barden; and several cousins.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, Nov. 11 from 2-5 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. A Celebration of Life gathering will be held on Friday, Nov. 24 (Matt’s birthday) starting at 3 p.m. at the Sacred Heart Club, 189 N. Gravel Rd., Medina. In lieu of flowers, Matt’s family would greatly appreciate any memorial donations in his memory to be made to ARC GLOW at www.arcglow.org or 64 Walnut St., Batavia, NY 14020. Share condolences and memories at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.
Posted November 09 2023
Carol A. McNeil
HOLLEY – Carol A. McNeil passed away peacefully after a long battle with Multiple Myeloma on Tuesday November 7, 2023, at the age of 78.
Predeceased by her parents Emil and Gladys Serbicki. She is survived by her loving husband of 55 years, John G., her cherished son John G. Jr. (Erin), treasured grandson John G. III, brother Deacon Jeffrey (Darlene) Serbicki, nephew Father Daniel J Serbicki, along with many other nieces and nephews.
Carol was a graduate of Utica Free Academy and attended Utica School of Commerce. In 1968 Carol married John McNeil and the couple moved around New York from Utica, to Syracuse, Buffalo, and Rochester due to John’s career. Carol was very involved with John’s business relations and functions throughout that time.
She was a devoted and loving stay at home mom and managed her family’s needs. She was active in the community with TWIGS, the neighborhood association, and the Catholic Daughters of America. She was a talented decorator and had a gift for putting things together. She was the “neighborhood mom” and welcomed everyone into her home. She left a lasting impression on everyone she met and will be missed by so many.
The family will receive friends on Saturday November 11th from 10 a.m. to 12 noon followed by a funeral service at 12 noon at the Fowler Funeral Home Inc. 340 West Ave., Brockport. Interment in Holy Trinity Cemetery in Utica, NY will be held in the spring. In lieu of flowers, those wishing may contribute to Mt. Carmel House or the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society in Carol’s memory.
Posted November 08 2023
Walter D. “June” Webster, Jr.

Born in the Town of Ridgeway, NY on June 9, 1922, he was a son of the late Walter D. Webster, Sr. and Carrie M. (George) Webster.
Mr. Webster was born and raised on his family farm on Bates Road. On August 4, 1946 he married the former Ione M. Rorick. He remained a lifelong farmer, operating Shady Maple Farms which later he renamed Webstar Farms on Bates Road, mainly farming fruit and dairy.
Following retirement, Walt stayed busy. He loved to bike extensively in the area and enjoyed taking photos along the way. He also enjoyed bowling, playing euchre, was a member of the Moose Club and the Senior Citizens of Western Orleans. In his later years he and his wife also enjoyed traveling. Walt was an avid Buffalo Bills fan and was also a loyal and dedicated fan of the Medina Mustangs.
Mr. Webster was predeceased by his wife, Ione Webster in 2008; son, David Webster in 2018; daughter in-law, Wanda “Nani” Webster in 1979; granddaughter, Marisa Minonno in 2023; grandson, Kevin Heideman in 2021; and siblings, Lois Grabenstatter, Merle Webster and Melvin Webster.
Left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Gail (John) Vogt of Lyndonville; son, Bruce (Molly) Webster of Medina; grandchildren, Tamara (Paul) Stephen, David (Amy) Webster, Ryan Punch, Sara (Peter) Vincent, Molly (Ed) Coyle, Justin (Jennifer) Webster, Thomas (Liz) Webster, Michael Webster (Michelle), Bradley Webster and Zachary (Carrie) Ausman; great-grandchildren, Seath, Malina, Jacob, Chloe, Alex, Joey, Katie, Avery, Jackson, Evan, Abigail, Brooke, Emerson, Eliza and two on the way; great-great-granddaughter, Cora; sister in-law, Sheila Royal and several nieces and nephews.
The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thanks to Walt’s “Sweethearts”, the staff at the North Wing Skilled Nursing Facility, for taking such great care of Walt in his final years.
A Private graveside service will be held at the convenience of the family in Bates Road Cemetery. The family would appreciate any donations in memory of Walt to be made to the North Wing Activities Dept.- 200 Ohio St., Medina, NY 14103. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.
Posted November 08 2023
David A. Waterstreet

David was a lifelong farmer and worked with his family on the family farm. He was a member of Concordia Lutheran Church and was a person who could repair anything that needed to be fixed. Mr. Waterstreet was predeceased by his parents, and his brother Norman.
Family and friends are invited to a time of visitation at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 21 West Avenue-Albion, TUESDAY 11/14 from 12 -1 p.m. where his funeral service will immediately follow visitation beginning at 1pm. Burial will follow in West Kendall Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Concordia Lutheran Church, 1769 Kendall Road, Kendall, New York, 14476. To share a special memory of David, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com
Posted November 08 2023
Katherine Tice

Kathy graduated from Letchworth High School in 1966 with honors. While in high school she was very active in Latin Club, FHA, Chorus, was a student monitor and on the bowling team. She spent the majority of her career in the restaurant business starting as a waitress and working her way up to management.
Kathy was very involved in her church Trinity Lutheran in Medina volunteering many hours. She had a love for all the beauty God created including her cats, the many flowers, plants and birds she tended to. She also had a passion for quilting and camping.
Kathy is survived by her husband of 56 years, Rowland; brother, Joe (Diane) of Castile; daughter, Lisa (Todd) of Albion; son, David (Amanda) of Seminole, Florida; grandchildren, Luke, Slade (Maylee), Emma, Nick (Rachel), Brittany (Lauren), Wyatt (Brandy), Sarah (Michael) and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
She is predeceased by her parents and sister, Virginia Traufler.
There will be a celebration of life on Sunday, November 19, 2023, 1 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, 1212 West Avenue, Medina, NY 14103.
Posted November 08 2023
Paul John Curtis

Born on June 25, 1960, in North Tonawanda, NY, he was the son of Joan (Richard) Surdel (Weinheimer) and the late Paul H Curtis.
He attended Starpoint Central School. Paul was married to the late and former Colleen Coughlin. He is survived by sisters, Patricia Curtis, Daleen Lewis and Wanda A’hern, and four nieces and four nephews.
Paul loved his family and friends and would help in any way he could.
Relatives and friends may call on Saturday, November 11, 2023 from 11AM-12PM at the Community Fellowship Church, 3144 Johnson Creek Rd, Middleport, NY 14105, where a funeral service will be held at 12:00 PM. Burial will be private for the family.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Niagara Hospice. https://www.niagarahospice.org/donation
Arrangements were entrusted to the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St. Medina, NY 14104.
Please light a candle or share a memory of P.J. at www.bogantuttlefunerals.com
Posted November 07 2023
Kip E. Garris

Kip was a United States Veteran serving a 5 year term in the Army, and was a member of the American Legion, the VFW and the Navy Club.
Kip was the owner/auctioneer of Kip Garris Auction Service, was a skilled carpenter, an avid outdoorsman and loved to hunt and fish. He was also a “Hockey Dad” to many kids and was a friend to anyone whoever met him.
Mr. Garris was predeceased by a son: Mitchell Ryan Garris and his faithful companion, “Baby Jack.”
He is survived by his wife of 39 years Cheri; his twin sons, Matt (Lindsey) Garris of Clarence and Mark (Erin) Garris of Hartland; his grandson: Jaxson Garris as well as several nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends at the Sherrie Bream Funeral Home, 4521 Main Street-Gasport, on Thursday from 4-7 p.m. only. Family and friends are invited to attend a graveside service with Military Honors, on Friday at 11 a.m. in Hartland Central Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, 5705 Grant Creek, Missoula, MT, 59808. To share a special memory of Kip, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com
Posted November 07 2023
Samantha M. Palmer Tranello

Born in Claremont, New Hampshire, she was the daughter of Scott E. and Lynn a. (Collins) Palmer.
Samantha graduated from Medina High School and enlisted in the U.S. Army, where she received many medals and citations. When she returned home, she worked various jobs, including Ace Hardware, CRFS and lastly at Cropsey & Cropsey. She enjoyed making crafts, cooking, and traveling. But most of all, she enjoyed prepping for holidays and spending them with her family.
Besides her parents, she is survived by her husband, Tony Tranello; a son, Logan Quackenbush; step-children, Skye, Rilee and Chase Tranello; a brother, Ryan Palmer of Cheektowaga; a sister, Mandi Werth of Colorado Springs, CO; an aunt, Michelle Roy of Nashua, NH, and several other aunts and uncles.
Samantha will be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, step-mother and friend.
Relatives and friends may call on Friday, November 10, 2023, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St. Medina, NY 14103, where a funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. with full military honors being accorded. Burial will be private for the family.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Samantha’s name to the family for the care of her children.
Please light a candle or share a memory of Samantha at www.bogantuttlefunerals.com
Posted November 04 2023
Robert Pierce

A humble man with the patience of a saint and a strong will to live, he will be sadly missed. Bob was born January 18, 1936 in Warren, PA to Gilbert Pierce & Jennie Mortimer Pierce. His dad passed away when Bob was just 2 years old.
His mom, Jennie, remarried Leonard “Andy” Lauffenburger. So, Bob and his sister Joyce were then blessed with a new baby brother, Fred, and then another baby brother, Jimmy.
Growing up Bob was a bit mischievous. His first job was a pin boy at his Uncle Harry’s bowling alley in Warren. Growing older he always had a joke or silly one-liner to share. Shortly after high school Bob joined the USMC.
Upon returning home from duty, Bob was a tree trimming expert “stump jumper” then he got into surveying with his brother-in-law, Larry. Bob liked this line of work until he retired. For 55 of those years he was a member of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 545 D and proud of it.
Bob had his own lifestyle. He loved riding his motorcycle, was an avid football fan, working with leather for gifts, and especially the time he got to spend with family & chocolate! Oh, by the way!
In December 1961, Bob met and married Nancy Jane Simpson (Snyders) an up-North girl. They rambled around Pennsylvania for a couple of years. Then moved to Middleport, NY. They sold their pretty mobile home, bought a big old house and raised 3 beautiful kids! Rest in peace my Bob.
Bob is survived by: wife Nancy; brother, Fred (Skeet) Lauffenburger of Youngsville, PA; daughter, Jennifer (Scott) Joy of Lyndonville; daughter, Dawn (John) Menhorn of Brandon, FL; son, Robert Pierce of Akron NY; grandchildren, Beth (Sam), Amber (Adam), Nicholas (Brie), Brandi, Robert, Bronson, Spencer and Parker; great-grandchildren, Josephine, Cole, Kam, Harrison, Luke, Jon David and Harper; several cousins, nieces and nephews.
Bob was predeceased by brother, Jimmy; sister, Joyce (Larry) Mourer; grand baby, Desiree Pierce; several aunts, uncles and cousins.
A Christian service will be planned on a later date to be announced.
Arrangements were entrusted to the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St. Medina, NY 14103.
Please light a candle or share a memory of Bob at www.bogantuttlefunerals.com.
Posted November 03 2023
Tyanna L. Lutes

She was born March 31, 1971 in Brockport to Allen and Helen (Kaiser) Bilohlavek and was a life-long resident of this area.
Ty was known as an avid unicorn collector and a lover of live music. She enjoyed being outdoors and loved tending to her gardens and flowers. She was also a passionate animal lover and was employed by Barre Animal Hospital for many years. Mrs. Lutes was predeceased by her husband Noel Lutes.
She is survived by her son, Keith (Kaitlyn Forshay) Lutes of Holley; her daughter, Alicia (Brendan) Edwards of AZ; her sisters, Robyn (Stephen) Schubmehl of Holley and Alana (Kyle) Piccirilli of Waterport, her parents, Allen and Helen Bilohlavek of Byron; as well as many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and great friends.
The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 16650 State Rt. 31- Holley, on Sunday from 1-3 and 5-7 p.m. where her funeral service will be held Monday beginning at 11 a.m. Interment will follow in Hillside Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Wilmot Cancer Center, 601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY, 14642.
To share a memory of Ty, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.
Posted November 01 2023
Richard Mammarello

Richard had a love for all animals but especially his dogs. He was a show dog breeder with many champions. He loved the Lord Jesus, talking to all about Him and helping anyone he could.
He is survived by his grandson Terry Schuyler and wife Leslie and great-grandchildren Bella, Abbie and Rocco.
There will be no Services at this time. Arrangements entrusted to Fowler Funeral Home, Inc.
Posted November 01 2023
Michael David Wadhams

Michael was raised in Albion, New York by his parents, William W. and Marjorie M. Wadhams.
Michael was pre-deceased by his wife, Dora J. Wadhams (Green); his parents and sisters, Judith McGuire, Regina VanAusdall, Sharon Daniels, Patricia Egami, Janette McClary; brother, William M. Wadhams; niece, Donna McElwine; and nephew, Jon-David Bartlett.
Michael was a loving husband, father, brother and a devoted grandfather. Michael is survived by his children – sons Christopher Wadhams, Timothy Wadhams and Michael Nungester; and daughter Dawn Kirby; step-children, John Kirby, James G. Kirby IV, Joseph Kirby and Jessica Kirby; grandchildren, Thomas Murray, Jordan Kirby, Taylor Kirby, James G. Kirby V, Wyatt Wadhams and Aurora Trevino; sisters, Claire Bartlett and Sandra Walter; brother, Edward Wadhams; aunt, Claire Graham and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Michael was a free spirit who joined the US Navy at 17, retiring to Jacksonville, Fla. where he then became a Federal Police Officer.
A Celebration of Life Service is planned for 2:00 PM on November 4, 2023, visitation with family 1-hour before service at Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home, 1701 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville Beach, Fla. Please Sign the Guestbook @ Jacksonville.com
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Diabetes Association or to a charity of your choice.
A remembrance luncheon in Mike’s honor will be held for family and friends on November 11, 2023 from noon to 3 p.m. in Albion, NY at the Pullman Universalist Church,10 East Park Street, Albion, N.Y.
Posted November 01 2023
Gloria Kenyon Collins

Gloria began her travel career working for Capital Airlines at the Buffalo Airport. In 1972 she opened North Towne Travel in Amherst, New York. Her love of travel allowed her to visit five continents. When she and Paul Collins married in 1980, they traveled the world together.
Gloria was a member and former president of Republican Women Aware in Vero Beach. She was also a member of the Vero Beach Yacht Club and was active in the Vero Beach Elks, the VFW and the American Legion.
Paul Collins preceded her in death in February 2003. She later married Ray Roehner who passed on in December 2022. She was also preceded in death by her brother Leonard G. Kenyon and her nephew William L. Kenyon.
Gloria is survived by her nephew David Kenyon MacIntosh and his wife Lorah of Traverse City, Michigan and nieces Gloreen Brandreth and her husband Keith of Phoenix, Arizona, Patricia Fuller and her husband Mark of Vero Beach, Florida and Cathy Hinkle and her husband Tommy of Sebastian, Florida. She is also survived by many great-nieces and nephews and several great-great-nieces and nephews.
Gloria will be interred with Paul Collins at Lynhaven Cemetery in Lyndonville, New York, and a funeral service will be held for family and friends at a later date.
Memorial donations may be made to VNA & Hospice Foundation in Vero Beach, Florida or to the charity of your choice.
Funeral arrangements are being handled by Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St. Medina, NY 14103.
Please light a candle or share a memory of Gloria at www.bogantuttlefunerals.com
Posted October 31 2023
Eleanor A. Schneider
Eleanor A. Schneider, passed away on Friday, October 28, 2023 following a long illness at the age of 89.
She was a daughter of Charles and Dorothy (Alexander) Francis, born on February 5, 1934 in the Town of Newstead. Eleanor grew up in the Akron area and lived most of her adult life in Medina. She married William Schneider and the couple raised two children. Eleanor worked for ACME Grocery Store and for many years as a clerk at G.C. Murphy Co. in Medina.
Sadly, Eleanor was widowed at a young age in 1971. In addition to her husband Bill, she was predeceased by her parents; her twin sister, Evelyn Misso; and sister, Marion Ribbeck.
She is survived by her children, Richard Schneider and Elaine (late Joseph) Newton both of Medina; grandchildren, Derek (Jacquie) Stack, Joseph Newton, Jr., Jonathan (Becky) Newton, Jordyn Newton and Ayriel (Roger) George; eight great-grandchildren; siblings, Marge (late Butch) Fry, Lester (Violet) Francis and Ray (Sharon) Francis; and several nieces and nephews.
Her graveside committal service will be held on Monday, Nov. 6 at 11AM in Boxwood Cemetery, Medina. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.
Posted October 30 2023
Jacqueline Ruth Wilkins

There are no calling hours or services. Burial with be held at the family’s convenience.
Posted October 30 2023
Bernice M. “Bubs” McNeil

Born on July 25, 1935 in Medina, NY, she was the daughter of the late Frederick and Clara (Nayman) Blount. On February 16, 1967, she married the late Michael “Pat” McNeil in Fort Pierce, Florida. She graduated from Medina Highschool and was employed at the former G.C. Murphy store in Medina.
Bubs later worked as a telephone operator for New York Telephone for a period of 30 years, retiring in 1985. After her retirement, she worked part time for Nutrifare at Ricky Place, preparing meals for the residents.
In her early years, Bubs and her husband travelled to Fort Piece, Florida, enjoying golf and family visiting. She enjoyed puzzles, reading, crafts and playing bingo. Bubs always loved to play Skip-Bo and board games with her nieces and nephews. All of the kids, young and old, enjoyed their special time with their Aunt Bubs.
Bernice is survived by her siblings, Betty Crockett of Vero Beach, FL, Rose Castricone of Medina, NY, and Thomas (Pauline) Blount of Sanford, NC, nieces and nephews Sandra Crockett Cosser of Vero Beach, FL, David (Deborah) Crockett of Lady Lake, FL, Robert (Amy) Castricone of Medina, NY, Philip (Kim) Castricone of Medina, NY, Christopher (Anna) Blount of Statesville, NC, and Monica Blount of Southern Pines, NC, also surviving are great-nieces and nephews, AJ, Krysta, Jeremy, Kelly, Craig, Chelsea, Jenna, Caroline, Catherine, and Steve, and two great-great Nieces, Hailey and Clara.
Besides her parents and husband, Bubs is predeceased by her brothers-in-law, Grant Crockett and Vincent Castricone and a sister-in-law, Paula Blount.
As per Bernice’s wishes, there are no calling hours. A Private Service will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family.
Memorials in her name may be made to the charity of one’s choice.
Arrangements were made through the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St. Medina, NY 14103.
Please light a candle or share a memory of Bubs at www.bogantuttlefunerals.com
Posted October 28 2023
Christopher ‘Chris’ L. Lane

Chris had worked in the construction business since he was a young man. First, for his father with Don Lane Excavating and for the last 22 years for Sam & Son Co. He loved working around his house, tinkering with his various motorized vehicles. Every winter he loved taking his snowmobiles anywhere that had snow and spending time outdoors. He lived his life to the fullest and how he wanted. Chris was a very hard worker and rarely had any downtime, but when he did he loved spending it with his family.
Chris was predeceased by his father, Donald Lane.
Chris is survived by his loving wife, Debbie (Smith) Lane; daughter, Kayla Lane; stepchildren, Salena (Sean) Hurley and Bret (Alica) Dieter; grandchildren, James, Dakota, Landyn, Blake, Elliana, Cameron, Easton and Tyson; mother, Carole Lane; sister, Kim (Glenn) DeFrank; nieces, Kasey and Erin; best friends, Butch and Luann as well as many brothers and sisters-in-law.
A private celebration of Chris’ life will be held at the convenience of the family.
Memorial contributions in Chris’ name may be made to the Wilmot Cancer Institute Development Office 300 E. River Road PO Box 278996 Rochester, NY 14627.
Chris’ arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home of Holley, NY.
To share a special memory of Chris, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.
Posted October 27 2023
Dennis M. Velia

He is also survived by his stepmother Patricia Velia and siblings Mary (Jeff) Kuhn, Barbara Velia, Robert Velia, Pamela Leonard, and John (Yukino) Voutour, along with several nieces and nephews, and beloved friends and co-workers at McDonald’s and Wegmans.
Dennis loved the arts, especially music and theatre. He loved the ladies of the ’80s, including Whitney Houston, Patti LaBelle, Cher, Aretha Franklin, Stevie Nicks, and Pat Benatar. He was an actor, appearing as an extra in Season 5 Episode 2 of Sex and the City and the opening classroom scene of The Mirror Has Two Faces. He also acted in community theaters in New Jersey and New York and saw many shows on Broadway.
Dennis loved any occasion to dress up and would design his own costumes for Halloween, Ms. Gay Rochester, Fashion Week of Rochester, and Pride. He was a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community and attended Pride events in Rochester, New York City, and Atlanta. He could often be found at The Forum for Happy Hour on Sundays or laying on the lawn at The Memorial Art Gallery.
He lived by the mantra “Just Be” and enjoyed the daily pleasures of life, including singing karaoke, going on wine tours with his sister, Mary, and releasing new episodes of his Crafting with Joanie™️ series on Instagram.
A celebration of life will occur at the Medina VFW at 216 East Center Street, Medina, NY 14103 on Saturday, November 4, 2023 from 1 to 4 p.m. Please join the family in celebrating Dennis’ life.
Arrangements were entrusted to the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St. Medina, NY 14103.
Please light a candle or share a memory of Dennis at www.bogantuttlefunerals.com.
Posted October 27 2023
Dorothy Elaine Nichols Carr Hilger Claypoole Gibson










