Obituaries

ALBION- Helen “Anita” (Grimm) Shafer, peacefully passed away on March 24, 2024. She was born December 6, 1934 in Washington DC and adopted by the late Albert and Mildred (Haines) Grimm.
Anita was a 1952 graduate of Albion High School, loved to do volunteer work and help people in need in our community. She was also a very active member of TWIG at Medina Memorial Hospital. Anita enjoyed knitting baby blankets and outfits for countless children in her spare time. She helped run the fundraising campaign to restore the chapel roof at Millville Cemetery.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband Robert Shafer Sr. in 2022, brother Richard Grimm and niece Gretchen Grimm.

Anita is survived by her daughters, Karen (Bruce) Rutherford, Jan (Bill) Whetstone, Julie (late Lou) Santos, Sandee (Don) Lepkoske, children of Robert Sr., Robert Shafer Jr., Bonnie Shafer, Jackie Woolbright, grandchildren, Tricia Young, Troy (Danyell) Lepkoske, Matt (Nicole Nawotka) Wilkins, Rob (Greg Johnson) Santos, Amber (Dan) Ryan, Nick (Bethany) Lepkoske, Jennah (Chris) Johnson, Jay Lepkoske, special granddaughter, Mikayla Heitzenrater, great- grandchildren, Adriana, Ben, Hailey, Ava, Austin, Brookelyn, Jason, Hannah, Abbie, Lily, Koen, Jaxon and Renley, sister, Bonnie (Dr. Robert) Weisberg, sister-in-law, Suzanne Grimm as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

There are no prior calling hours. Anita’s graveside service will be held at Millville Cemetery on Friday, March 29th at 11:30am.

Memorial contributions in her name may be made to Hospice of Orleans 14080 Route 31 Albion, NY 14411, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105 or the Make a Wish Foundation 1702 E. Highland Ave., Suite 400 Phoenix, AZ 85016.

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

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

ALBION – Robert E. Bracey, passed away on Wednesday, March 20, 2024 at the Martin-Linsin Hospice Residence in Albion.

Born at home on March 16, 1941 in Medina, he was a son of the late Ernest J. and Sophie J. (Domoj) Bracey. Mr. Bracey graduated from Medina High School in the class of 1958. Shortly after, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force serving from 1958-1962. On September 28, 1963 he married the former Joanne Majeski and the couple have resided in the Medina area ever since. Mr. Bracey worked as a truck driver for Harrison Radiator Division of GM in Lockport. He retired in 1992 following 30 years of service. Mr. Bracey was a lifelong parishioner of Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church in Medina. He was also an exempt member of the Shelby Volunteer Fire Co. and belonged to the Junior Wilson Sportsmen’s Club.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother, Charles (Carol) Bracey and sister, Harriet (Robert) Draper.

He is survived by his wife, Joanne Bracey; sons, David (Nancy) Bracey and Douglas (Karen) Bracey; sister, Mary Jane Frederick; grandchildren, Ryan Bracey, Timothy Dunham, Brian (Alissa) Dunham and Emily (Brent) Christiansen; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the caring staff at the Martin-Linsin Residence and to the “Old Shelby Boy’s Club”.

His Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, March 25 at 11AM at Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church, 211 Eagle St., Medina. Interment with full military honors will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery. Flowers are gratefully declined. Memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Orleans at www.hospiceoforleans.org or to the Knights-Kaderli Memorial Fund, PO Box 684, Medina, NY 14103. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

ALBION – Mary Lou Thompson, age 75, passed away suddenly on March 14, 2024 with her husband Donald Thompson by her side.  She was born June 25, 1948 in Rochester, a daughter of the late Mary (Switzer) and William Dragert.

Mary loved gardening, and always had amazing gardens she made to include swimming pools surrounded by fossil rocks.  She would accommodate them with different Christmas lights for all occasions, even Ground Hog Day. After all, she enjoyed animals, especially her Pomeranian’s. 

Mary enjoyed camping with her family at Green Harbor, riding motorcycles, 3 wheeling with all her kids.  She even passed her pilots test and flew a plane over Niagara Falls.  She was always baking and cooking big meals and was a pro, putting on big parties; such as her 40^th birthday-band-bash, where just about the whole town of Clarendon literally danced the grass off of her front yard. Best party ever in Clarendon history.

Christmas and Easter were her favorite holidays, and it didn’t matter how old you were, because you still had to hunt down your over stuffed Easter basket full of goodies.  Mary loved traveling/vacationing and dancing the night away at many wonderful resorts, including Hawaii and Acapulco which were her favorites.  Friends meant the world to her and she loved spending time with them and her family; especially her grandson Michael. 

Mary and her husband of 35 years, Donald met at Davenport Tool and Die and it was love at first sight.  They bought a party boat and journeyed off everywhere, especially Alexander Bay in the Thousand Islands.

Whenever you hear the song “Hello Mary Lou Goodbye Heart”, remember her, for she was a beautiful person with a super big heart. A real go getter. Always on the go and she definitely had a Great Life.  Mary went out of her way to help anyone and we are proud to have her as our mother; a treasured memory forever.

Unfortunately, loss of oxygen and malfunctioning equipment during her open-heart surgery at the age of 50 caused her injury and other medical issues which affected her quality of life. Never give up on family, you never know what tomorrow might bring. Until then, picture Mary Lou back in the day, driving off into the sunset in her sharp blue Trans Am, she called “Good Ole Betsey Wetzy” the little ole lady from Pasadena. 

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her sisters Glady Mae Christoff and Deborah Dragert.

Mary is survived by her husband Donald; brother William “BJ” Dragert; daughter Regina V. (Royden) Guess, Jr.; grandson Michael Ross; son Jerry L. Walls and his children; daughter Trina L. Kennedy; grandson Evan Press; several nieces, nephews, cousins, great-cousins.  A special thank you to Ronald Penna, Nick Long, Judy Ward and Quincy Washburn.

At Mary’s request there are no prior calling hours.  Arrangements were entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Albion.

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

BUFFALO – Ceona M. Schafer, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 14, 2024, surrounded by family and loved ones.

Born May 22, 1942 in Buffalo, she was a daughter of the late Maynard C. and Alice (Newton) Groves. She was the loving wife of Richard Schafer. A homemaker most of her life, she raised a family of five children. She also worked for many years as an office manager for Hibbs-Schafer Dental Lab in Buffalo and the family’s other business ventures.

Always one to lend sage advice and to watch over her loved ones, Ceona was a true matriarch and pillar of her family. Whether it was bailing out a family friend or housing various family members and friends over the years, she was always willing to help anyone in need. Ceona was more than just a mother and grandmother, she was a confidant and friend with the patience of a saint. She was a voracious reader and she loved to chat; her phone never stopped ringing. Ceona had a great sense of humor and loved to laugh. She enjoyed being social and going to different shows and events, camping, and loved listening to Elvis and gospel music. Ceona was the glue that held her family together and will be greatly missed.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Richard in 2000; and her infant son, Scotty Monti.

Left to cherish her memory are her five children, David (Arlene) Monti of FL, Dennis (Saundra) Monti of Medina, Suzanne Schafer-Bobbit of Gasport, Diana Schafer of Barker and Richard Schafer of SC; fourteen grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; her brother, Wayne (Dawn) Groves of E. Aurora; and several nieces and nephews.

All are welcome to join the family for a Celebration of Ceona’s Life held on Thursday, March 21 from 3-7PM at Riff City, 166 Chandler St., Buffalo, NY 14207. Private interment will be in Acacia Park Cemetery, N. Tonawanda. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share memories and condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

MIDDLEPORT – Dr. Herbert G. “Herb” Koenig, 93, went to be with the Lord on March 16, 2024 at the Niagara Hospice House in Lockport.  Born July 8, 1930, in Buffalo, Herb was the third of three children born to Leonard (Leo) M. Koenig and Edna (Pawlitz) Koenig.  

After graduating from Buffalo Teachers College, Herb earned his M.A. and Doctorate in education, and spent his 30-year teaching career inspiring the students at Royalton Hartland Middle School.

Herb was preceded in death by his brother Raymond (Jean) Koenig, sister Ruth (Arthur) Pelzer, and first wife Jean (Newman) Koenig.  His joyous legacy will be carried on by his second wife Virginia Laube Koenig, nieces Marcia (Brian) Ergort, Lynn (Tiff) Bates, Pam (Gary) Rost, Karen (Joe) Buranich, Sarah Fritton, nephews Bill Feldman, Matthew (Rita) Fritton, Christopher Fritton, step-children Jonathan (Kim) Laube, and Laura (Doug) Finney, and many great-nieces and nephews, as well as countless friends that he saw as his family. 

Herb’s lifelong passions included his faith, education, travel, music, his Middleport community, and of course people.  Herb never met a stranger and couldn’t go anywhere without someone recognizing him.  He always had a welcoming word, and usually a corny joke to go with it. 

From 1953-1957, He served in the U.S. Naval Reserve as a communications officer aboard the aircraft carrier USS Hornet in the Mediterranean and Pacific.  He retired from the navy at the rank of Lieutenant. 

Herb began teaching for Royalton Hartland in 1952, and received an Outstanding Educator of America Award in 1975.  In 1979, he was selected as a Fellow by the Science Teachers Association of New York State, for which he held many offices, including chairman of the Northwestern Zone.  While teaching, Herb authored several science textbooks – an achievement of which he was very proud.  He retired from teaching in 1986.

He was an active member of the Middleport United Methodist Church, where he sang, and occasionally gave the Sunday message.  Music was very important to him, and the Middleport Community Choir held a special place in his heart.  Herb was instrumental in establishing a partnership between the choir and the Lubbecke Brass Ensemble of Germany.  His work laid the foundation for multiple trips and cultural exchanges, as well as international friendships.  He truly believed that music brought people together. 

As a 66-year Mason, Herb was a past District Deputy Grand Master of the Niagara-Orleans Masons, and past Master of Cataract Masonic Lodge 63, Middleport. 

Herb had a zest for life, and the world is a better place because he was in it.  

Calling hours will be held Saturday, Mar. 23, from 1:00-3:00, at the Bates, Wallace,& and Heath Funeral Home in Middleport, with a Masonic memorial service to follow.  In lieu of flowers, contributions in Herb’s name can be made to the Middleport Community Choir, Middleport United Methodist Church, or Niagara Hospice.

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

ALBION – Randall S. “Randy” Jurs, age 66, passed away unexpectedly on March 16, 2024 at his home. He was born January 8, 1958 in Medina to the late Herbert and Eleanor (Rodas) Jurs.

Randy worked as a mechanic for Treehouse Foods in Medina for many years before he retired. He was a huge Harley-Davidson fan and taught his kids how to ride in their younger years. He also enjoyed going deer hunting and went many times with his son Justin. Being in nature was something that he really loved whenever he was able. Randy was very proud of both of his children and their achievements in their lives. He was an extremely hard worker and seemed to know how to fix anything and everything.

Randy is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Pauline; children, Justin (Amanda) Jurs and Ashley Jurs; grandchildren, Ava, Brooklyn, Liam and Cole; siblings, John (Late Libby) Jurs, Carol (Bob) Ander, Chuck (Althea) Jurs, Ronnie and Greg Jurs, Kristen Bone and Amy Burkhalter; as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Randy’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home on Wednesday March 20th from 4:00-7:00pm. His funeral service will be held Thursday at 11:00am at the funeral home with interment following in Mt. Albion Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in Randy’s name may be made to Eagle Harbor Methodist Church, c/o Michelle Howard, 2364 Lake Rd., Hamlin, NY, 14464. 

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

MIDDLEPORT/BUFFALO – A devoted teacher and animal lover, Judy A. Egner died on January 16, 2024, at her home in Buffalo, NY, at 84.

Judy taught thousands of middle school children science, social studies, and English for 34 years in the Buffalo Public School system. She was a caring and loving teacher who dedicated her time and energy to ensuring each student received a quality education.

Judy’s gentle disposition with her students carried over to her love of animals, especially her dog, Joey. After teaching, she spent time at home with her animals and growing a beautiful garden with bright and colorful flowers that was the envy of the neighborhood.

Selfless and quiet, Judy was a devoted Catholic. Her life reflected simplicity and the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi, who said, “Do few things but do them well; simple joys are holy.”

Judy was born on January 12, 1940. A Mass of Christian burial will be held on April 19, 2024, at 10 a.m. at St. Stephens Roman Catholic Church, 21 Vernon Avenue, Middleport, NY, 14105.

Judy’s family entrusted her care to Mitchell Family Funeral, please visit mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com

BUCKINGHAM, QUEBEC- BEANS Madore (a.k.a. Jean-Raymond) born in Buckingham, Quebec, Canada passed away at his home on February 11^th 2024 surrounded by his family. Pre-deceased by his parents Helen Murphy, Raymond Madore and Sister Dianne. He leaves behind his sweet Chickie/Fiancee Holly Moore, sisters/brother Lynda (Raymond), Gaetan (Rollande),  Suzanne (Denis), Monique (Michel) and Helene. Niece Tania, nephews; Frank, Mathieu, Vincent, Sebastien, Guillaume and Claude.  He also leaves behind his American family to only name a few; Dick Menke, Kenneth and Sheila Murphy, John and Charmaine O’Keefe, Bob and Kim Banks. Beans worked for Chuck Full O’ Nuts, Maidstone Coffee, Han-Tek and American Packaging. He then became owner and operator of Cool Beans Services, Madore’s Custom Cycle Garage, Beans Trucking for which he was very successful at. He will be tremendously missed by his family and so many friends. A special Thank You to Doctors McHugh, Gaden and their teams for the good care provided to Beans. A celebration of life will be held at the Sainte Rose-de-Lima church in Gatineau, Quebec, Canada, on Friday May 17 2024 at 11:00am, where he will be laid to rest with his parents and sister. A celebration of life will also be held in Brockport at a later date.

EAST ROCHESTER- Veronica (Bonnie) M LaMachia, age 93, formerly of East Rochester, entered into eternal rest on March 16, 2024 at home, with the presence of her loving and compassionate granddaughter and caregiver Sarah Hofstra as well as family members. She was born March 29, 1930 the daughter of the late Thomas and Helen E. (Farron) Craig.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Joe LaMachia, her son Jeffrey Hofstra, a sister Helen Cowd, brothers Thomas and James Craig.

She is survived by her sons Donald Hofstra, Ken (Kim) Hofstra, Brian (Michelle) Hofstra and Robert (Holly) Hofstra, several grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins. She is also survived by David Craig, Arizona.

Bonnie enjoyed several years at SUNY Brockport’s Faculty Dining Hall as well as golfing several states with her husband, Joe, family and friends.

A short service will be held at 11:00am, March 23, 2024, at Harloff Funeral Home, 803 South Washington Street, East Rochester, NY 14445. A burial will follow at White Haven Memorial Park, 210 Marsh Road, Pittsford, NY 14534. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of Orleans, 14080 NY-31, Albion NY 14411.

HOLLEY – Patrice Delia Kopitzki, 73, passed away March 17, 2024, at Hildebrant Hospice Care Center. Pat was born December 9, 1950, in Brockport and had lived in Holley for over 38 years.

Pat took great pride in her gardening skills, and you could see her love of gardening on display at Oak Ridge Apartments. Pat loved all animals and was known to care for a hurt bird or frog. She also was a NASCAR fan and loved her cat “Baby Kitty.”

Pat was predeceased by her great-grandson, Chase Myers; and sisters, Deborah and Wendy.

Pat is survived by her husband, Robert; daughters, Jenn Myers and Susie Kopitzki; the love of her life was her grandchildren who referred to her as Mema, Kalena (Brandon) Garbacz, Garrett (Katie) Myers, Haylee Myers and Isla Willemsen; great-grandchildren, Brantley and Maverick Myers.

Pat’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell funeral Home, 16650 State Route 31, Holley, on Tuesday, March 26, from 4 to 6 p.m. only. Interment will be in Hillside Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Verona Street Animal Society at vsas.org.

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

May 4, 1962 — March 15, 2024

HAMLIN – Robin (Rushton) Whitaker, 61, passed away unexpectedly at home, March 15, 2024. Robin was born May 4, 1962, in Chicago, a daughter of the late Raymond and Joan (Christie) Rushton.

She was a 1980 graduate of Holley High School. Robin was retired, but enjoyed thrifting, buying, and selling antiques, gardening, music, going to concerts and Civil War history. She loved all animals, especially her dogs.

Robin was predeceased by her parents; brother, James Rushton; and mother-in-law, Peggy Whitaker.

Robin is survived by her loving husband of 28 years, Gordy; stepchildren, Jolene (Joe) Faulisi and T.R. Gullo; grandchildren, Reese, Kayden and Winnie; siblings, Vicky Gutheil, Chris (Angie) Rushton, Val (Russell) Olles and Rhonda (Custy Panetta) Rushton; special cousin, David (Kate) Rushton of UK; and canine companion, Dolly.

She is also survived by beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, many friends, and her family at The Carriage Place Crafts & Antiques CO-OP.

Robin’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 16650 State Route 31, Holley, on Monday March 25, from 4 to 7 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Robin’s life at 7. Memorials may be made in memory of Robin to Rescued-Treasures.com.

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

MIDDLEPORT – Jeffrey F. “Redneck” Sidebottom, 61, of Middleport, NY, entered into rest on Thursday, March 14, 2024 at the Niagara Hospice, Lockport, NY.

Born on February 15, 1963, in Lockport, NY, he was the son of the late Leonard Sidebottom and Doris (Freer) Yingling.

He grew up in Middleport, NY and was a life-long mechanic, working for area garages. He liked spending time with his family and friends and caring for his beloved dog, Midget.

Jeffrey is survived by his four children, Jeffrey Kirk Sidebottom, Michael Sidebottom, Nathan Sidebottom and Ashley; six grandchildren; four siblings, Eric (Ces) Sidebottom, Dennis (Laurie) Sidebottom, Kim Deyarmin and Pamela (Mark) Fearby; and many nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews and the love of his life, Tonia Young.

Besides his parents, Jeffrey is predeceased by his son, Cody; a brother-in-law, Bruce Deyarmin; and his step-father, Robert Yingling.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jeffrey’s name to Niagara Hospice,  4675 Sunset Dr, Lockport, NY 14094

Relatives and friends may attend his Celebration of Life at the Community Fellowship Church Hall, 3151 Johnson Creek Rd, Middleport, NY 14105 on Saturday, March 23, 2024 at 11:00 AM with the Pastor Joseph Szalay III officiating.

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

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

HOLLEY – Nicole Lynn Poquette, passed away tragically in a car accident on March 11, 2024 in South Carolina where she was residing. She was born September 14, 1982 to Mary Verhagen Carpenter and George Poquette in Brockport.

Nicole (Nic) was a fearless, strong woman. Among her favorite pastimes were spending time with her daughter (and best friend) and cuddling on the couch with her son and dogs. Nic was amazing at arranging any kind of get-together with anyone who wanted to participate. She could have a party put together with a moment’s notice. She was happiest outside, either on the water or on a beach in the sun or working in her gardens. She also cherished the time she was able to spend in Puerto Rico with her love, Franky and his family.

Nic was a bit wild and outspoken – you never had to wonder what she really thought (often that your food wasn’t seasoned enough) and she was truly gifted at making up a good story. She will always be remembered by her mom for her beautiful smile. Her big brother Mike (Ken) was like a best friend and father-figure and she had a special twin-like bond with her younger sister Priscilla who she enjoyed going for long walks and bike rides with.

Nicole is survived by her children, Mariah Weitz and Kyler Weitz; the love of her life, Francisco (Franky) Garcia, her parents Mary (Russell) Carpenter and George Poquette; siblings Kenneth (Beth) Verhagen, Daniel (Carolyn) Benedict, Michelle (Troy) Kingdollar, Priscilla (Michael) Church and Daniel (Emily) Carpenter, several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles & cousins.

Nicole was an amazing spirit who made an impact on everyone she met and will be missed by all who knew her.

Nicole’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes 16650 State Route 31, Holley on Thursday March 21, from 4:00-6:00, followed by her Memorial Service at 6:00. Immediately following the service, there will be a celebration of Nicole at the VFW in Holley. It will open at 6:00.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made for the benefit of Nicole’s kids to the care of Ken Verhagen, 232 Linwood Ave, Albion.

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

ALBION- Mark Lawrence Powley, age 60, passed away at his home on February 29, 2024, in Albion, New York. Mark was born on April 16, 1963, in Albion to Terry and Jane Powley.

Mark was a charismatic man of many talents and passions. A supportive friend and generous family man, Mark’s spirit and creativity were evident in everything he did. His legacy will forever be engraved in the hearts of all those who have known him. Passionate about classic cars, Mark owned several, including Camaros and Corvettes. He enjoyed listening to classic rock on his vinyl collection and also loved riding his John Deere Tractor.

Mark was a member of the Ceramic Society and the Glen Regional Corvette Club, where he shared his expertise and enthusiasm. His professional life was equally impressive. For over 36 years, he worked at Corning Incorporated, where his innovative spirit thrived. He proudly developed 23 patents, a testament to his creative genius. This passion for innovation was rooted in his education, having graduated from Albion High School in 1981 and from Cortland State in 1985 with dual degrees in Gemology and Geology. His thirst for knowledge led him to study glass and ceramics at Alfred University, further fueling his inventive mind.

Mark is survived by his children, Karen (Dan) Miller, Jason (Gabriella) Miller, and Angela (Tom Scolaro) Busco; his grandchildren, Tanner, Jared, Jason, Kaylee, Gabriel, Domenico, and Alessandria; brothers, Donald (Michele) Powley and Jason Powley; He will also be fondly remembered by his nephew, Michael Powley and nieces Amanda, Ruth, and Hope Powley. Mark was preceded in death by his loving parents, Terry and Jane (Balfour) Powley.

All services for Mark will be private.

Mark’s family entrusted his care to Haughey Funeral Home, Inc. www.haugheyfuneralhome.com

MEDINA – Ronald E. “Ron” Baubie, 77, of Medina, NY, entered into rest on Monday, March 11, 2024, at the Batavia VA Medical Center.

Born on August 6, 1946, in Medina, NY, he was the son of the late Stanley J. and Clara (Thompson) Baubie.

Ron attended Medina High School and went on to receive a Drafting Degree. He was drafted into the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. On returning home, he worked as a Dietician at the Medina Memorial Hospital until his retirement. He was a member of the American Legion Butts -Clark Post 204 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Lincoln Post 1483. In his spare time, Ron enjoyed drawing, playing cards, and watching the Buffalo Bills play.

Ron is survived by his niece, Melissa (Mike) Clark of Waterport, NY, a great-niece, Annalee, and several cousins; he was known to many as “Uncle Ronnie.”

Relatives and friends may call on Friday, March 15 2024, from 4:00 PM-7:00 PM at the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St. Medina, NY 14103. A private service and burial will be held at the convenience of the family.

Instead of flowers, memorials may be made in Ron’s name to the VA WNY Healthcare System, c/o CDCO, 222 Richmond Ave, Batavia, NY 14020.

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

CARLTON – In loving memory of Garland Kimball Miller, who, at the venerable age of 98, departed this life on the 10th of March 2024. Born to the late Berenice and Gerald Miller on the 2nd day of January 1926 in Carlton, New York, he lived a life marked by service, dedication, and the joy of simple pleasures.

Garland answered the call of duty when drafted into the Army and served with honor from 1942 to 1944. His bravery in the face of adversity during World War II in both the Pacific and Atlantic theaters shall forever be remembered.

Upon returning to civilian life, Garland pursued a career as a truck driver and mechanic. Later in life he retired after many years of commendable service with the Albion New York State Department of Transportation as head mechanic. His work ethic and commitment to his profession inspired all who knew him.

Garland found solace and delight in the quiet pursuit of puzzle-solving, earning recognition for completing one of the world’s largest puzzles. His hobbies also included attending auctions, maintaining his property, collecting local history artifacts and bird & squirrel watching. He was a pillar in his community, actively participated in the American Legion, the Orleans Genealogy Society, the WNY Steam Show Association, and several Railroad Associations.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories for his remaining sibling, Darleene Johnson; children, Cheryl McCarthy, (d. James), Lynn Miller and his wife Elaine, and Terry Miller and his wife Gina; his grandchildren, Laura, Erin and Heather McCarthy, Chad & Corey Miller, Misty Woodlee (John) and several great-grandchildren, along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members and close friends. Also, he touched the hearts of his cherished health care girls, Terry Condoluci, Felicia Snook, Della Fisher, and Jamie Underwood.

Garland was predeceased by his beloved life companion, Mary Roth, and his brother, Reed Miller; his sisters, Leona Leofsky and Geraldine Schuck; and grandson, Duane Miller.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes in Albion on Friday, March 15, from 4 to 7 p.m. where his Celebration of Life Service will be at 7 p.m. Military Honors will follow his service. Our hearts are heavy, but we are comforted knowing Garland rests in eternal peace and that his legacy endures through the lives he touched. The family suggests that those wishing to express sympathy consider donating to PAWS of Albion, NY, in Garland’s memory.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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