Obituaries

ALBION – Helen Lucille Bilicki, 87, passed away April 6, 2023, with her loving children at her side, after a short illness.

She was born in Albion, NY on May 17, 1935 as the youngest of three children to Clark and Mildred (Ingalls) Ireland.

Helen was a lifelong resident of the town. She was a graduate of Albion High School with the class of 1954 and earned a bookkeeping degree from Genesee Community College in the early 1980s. She worked for many years for the Orleans County Nutrition Program, starting as a baker for Meals On Wheels and then as their bookkeeper.

With a passion for volunteering, Helen was always willing to step up when a group needed a treasurer or help organizing a fundraiser. Always involved in her children’s lives, she stepped in when her daughter’s Girl Scouts troop needed a leader and got involved with the Band Booster when her son was in the high school band.

She was deeply involved in many organizations in her community including Girl Scouts of Western New York, Orleans County Historical Society and Orleans County Veteran Van Transportation. Helen enjoyed camping with her family as a member of Family Campers and RV’s, doing crafts with the Home Bureau and most recently putting together puzzles with her friends in the community room at her apartment.

She was predeceased in 2013 by her husband of 56 years, Leonard and her sister Evelyn Homuth.

She is survived by her son, Alan (Amy) Bilicki of Medina; daughter, Elaine (Clifford) Nelson of Niagara Falls; grandchildren, Madeline (Brian Bogan) Bilicki and Katie Bilicki; brother, Norman (Joan) Ireland of Albion and a niece, Audrey Homuth Behlau of Rochester.

Her family would like to express their thanks to all the healthcare workers the Rochester Regional Healthcare System who provided her compassionate care during her illness.

Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to the Orleans County Veterans Agency, Veterans Van Transportation Service, 13996 Route 31 West, Albion, NY 14411.

Relatives and friends may call on Tuesday, April 11, from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Holy Family Parish-St. Joseph’s Church, 106 S Main St, Albion, NY 14411, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Albion.

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

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

Audra Ferris Schutt, age 91, passed away on April 2, 2023 at the Hospice House in Sun City Center, Florida.

Born March 19, 1932 in Batavia NY, she was the daughter of the late Allen and Helen Ferris.

In addition to her parents, she was pre-deceased by her long-time companion Laverne “Jiggs” Green and her beloved dog “Cassie.”

Audra was a retired Registered Nurse who loved to travel with Jiggs in their motorhome full time. They traveled up and down the east coast visiting with family and friends, playing golf, and going to Blue Grass Festivals. They eventually spent much of their time at the Masonic RV Park in Wimauma, Florida. She loved to crochet and made many prayer shawls for people that she knew at the RV Park. She was also an avid animal lover.

Audra is survived by her four children, Becky (Phil) Gang, Kathie (Phil) Zirretta, Jay (Maria) Schutt and Allen (Kim) Schutt, her brother James Ferris, as well as grandchildren, great grandchildren, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

At her request, there will be no services.

ALBION – John “Jack” C. Gaze, 86, of Albion, New York passed away peacefully in Florida on April 6, 2023.

Jack was born on November 20, 1936, in Albion, New York.  As a child, he enjoyed listening to the New York Yankee games on the radio including the greats like Mickey Mantle and Joe DiMaggio.  He attended DeSales Catholic High School from 1950 to 1951 and Albion High School from 1952 until graduation in 1954.  Throughout high school, Jack was very active in the glee club, band (drums), drama, football, basketball, baseball, and track.

After graduating from Albion High School, he went on to further his education at the State University of New York (SUNY) at Brockport, New York, between 1954 to 1955.  At the same time, he worked for the New York Central Railroad until 1959.  Later, he accepted a position as a Traffic Manager with Nifty Foods from 1959 to 1964.

It was at this time he became a Police Officer with the Village of Brockport, New York.  During this time, he simultaneously obtained his New York State Real Estate Brokers License in 1967.  He served honorably for the Brockport Police Department until 1969.

From 1969 until retirement, Jack started his own business and worked in real estate both in New York and Florida.  He earned an additional credential in 1990 when he became a New York State Certified Appraiser.  He enjoyed selling real estate, both residential and commercial appraising, and teaching real estate courses for Bryant & Stratton, Genesee Community College, and SUNY at Brockport.  After hours, Jack enjoyed playing drums in a band on the weekend at various local clubs.

Jack sponsored the team Gaze Realty that captured the inaugural United States Slo-Pitch Softball Association (USSSA) Classic C World Championship in 1975.  After decades of waiting, Gaze was inducted into the New York State USSSA Hall of Fame in 2016.

After retirement, Jack split his time between Central Florida and Upstate New York to enjoy what was most important to him, spending time with his family and friends (and of course rooting for the New York Yankees).

Jack is predeceased by his parents Clare Mason Gaze and Geraldine Rhoda Gaze.  He is survived by his loving family, brother Jim Gaze and wife Susan;  his sister Patty Harrold and husband William; his three children, Kenneth John Gaze; John Patrick Gaze, and wife Elizabeth Gaze, and Jacqueline Ann Hedin; his seven grandchildren, Candice; Christine; Chase; Joshua; Mackenzie; Bryan; Christian, and companion Connie Aulenti.

No funeral or memorial service is immediately planned.  The family will notify loved ones in the future when a service is scheduled.

Marissa Ann “Reese” Miller, 47, of Williamsville, NY, entered into rest on Tuesday, April 4, 2023 at Buffalo General Hospital  with her loving family at her side.

Born on September 12, 1975 in Medina, NY, she was the daughter of Wanda Lee Weese Miller and the late Clark James Miller.

Marissa graduated from Medina High School in 1993 and received an associate degree in nursing from Niagara Community College and earned a Bachelor’s degree from Damien College, where she was a semester away from receiving her Nurse Practitioner degree.  She was employed with the Buffalo VA Medical Center for 11 years and later for Roswell Park Cancer Institute. She also worked for various hospitals and nursing homes. She gave comfort and healing to the many patients and their families. Marissa loved spending time with her family, especially with her grandson and nieces and nephews. She loved living in the moment and having fun with her family and friends.

Marissa is survived by her mother, Wanda Lee (Nicholas) Labban of Medina, NY. Her son, Andre (Denise) Miller of Tonawanda, NY, two grandchildren, Andre “Tooters” Miller Jr. and Camren Fonville. Also surviving are two siblings, Summer “Sasha” Miller of Lockport, NY, Alaric (Cady) Murg of Nashville, TN, and several nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great nephew.

Relatives and friends may call on Saturday, April 15, 2023 from 2PM – 5PM at the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St. Medina, NY 14103 where a memorial service will start at 5:00 PM. All attending the service are invited to the celebration of life from 6:30 PM – 11:00 PM in the Emerald Conference Room at the Best Western of Lockport 515 S Transit St, Lockport, NY 14094. Burial will be held at the convenience of the family.

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

MEDINA – Debra S. Russo, 70, passed away unexpectedly at home on March 26, 2023.

She was born on August 14, 1952 in Medina, the daughter of the late Matthew McCauley and Helen (Kubatek) Mauragis.

Debbie was a resident of Medina all her life. Ever the entrepreneur, she began her business life with her husband, Joseph Russo in the operation of P&J Construction. She branched out on her own with the Wicker & Gift Gallery on Main Street in Medina. Later, Debbie founded, owned and operated Rudy’s Diner on West Center Street. Her businesses never kept her from her enjoyment of her family. Debbie loved spending time with her beloved grandchildren. She continued her life at Rudy’s up until her passing, it was her passion, along with caring for her three dogs, Sasha, Scooter and Violet.

She was predeceased by her former husband, Joseph Russo; her daughter, Kelly Russo Duffield both in 2019, and brother, Ronald McCauley in 2000.

Debbie is survived by her son, Anthony Russo of Ashville, NC; her grandchildren, Brody Hoffmeister (Jenna Pangrazio), Brett Hoffmeister (Brooke Cooper), Aubrey Hoffmeister (Brandon Arnett), Eden Russo, Francesca Russo and Charlotte Russo; and several great-grandchildren. She is also survived by sisters, Pat (Ancel) Lyons, Gloria (Fred) Fierch; brothers, Donald (Diane) McCauley and Michael (Kathy) McCauley; and many nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, April 16 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 West Center St., Medina. A private interment will be done at a later date. Memorials may be made to a charity of one’s choice. Share memories and condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com

PENFIELD – Patricia A. Hughes entered into rest peacefully at her home with her loving sons at her side on Tuesday, April 4, 2023.

Born January 9, 1937 in Brockport, she was a daughter of the late Adelbert and Hazel (Russell) Kane. Patricia married the late Robert E. Hughes, Jr. on July 6, 1957. A homemaker most of her life, she raised two children, Robert and Ronald, who will miss her dearly.

In addition to her parents, Patricia was predeceased by her husband, Robert in 2015; and two sisters, Shirley Bolton in 2010 and Elma Huffman in 2015.

Left to cherish her memory are her two sons, Robert E. Hughes III and Ronald A. Hughes both of Penfield; and several nieces and nephews.

Patricia’s sons wish to extend their heartfelt appreciation to Michelle, Suzi and Amy for their kind care and support through these difficult times.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 12 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Her funeral will immediately follow at 12 p.m. and interment will be in Bates Road Cemetery. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

June 17, 1950–Feb.15, 2023

Carolyn Sue Dunn of Brockport, New York died of natural causes while vacationing in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands, on Feb. 15, 2023. She was 72.

Carolyn was born in Detroit, Michigan on June 17, 1950 and moved with her parents, George T. and Betty C. Dunn, to Brockport when she was one year old. A resident of Brockport, she graduated from Brockport High School, received a bachelor of arts degree from the University of Rochester, and a master’s degree from SUNY Brockport. She held various retail and marketing positions in the Rochester area and worked as a salesperson from approximately 1990 to 2010 in the family business in Brockport, Dunn’s Furniture.

In her youth Carolyn enjoyed snow skiing, showing, and riding horses, and water sports, including sailing and scuba diving. In later years, she was an active swimmer and did regular laps at the college pool in Brockport. She was a creative quilter and seamstress as well. Despite a diagnosed and treated mental health condition that limited some activities in her later years, Carolyn volunteered at the Morgan Manning House, loved reading, and especially enjoyed family gatherings and occasional trips to the Virgin Islands. She was very attentive to her parents’ needs in their later years, especially when both were in facilities for the elderly.

Carolyn is survived by her sister, Julia (San Diego, CA), brothers Todd (Sharon) Dunn and John (Wendy) Dunn of Spencerport, NY, and her six nieces and nephews: Dena (David Milliner) Emmerson (San Francisco, CA) and Laura Emmerson (Seattle, WA); Erin (Andy Martin) Dunn (Las Vegas, NV) and Colin Dunn (Providence, RI); and James Dunn (Madison, WI) and Kate Dunn (Rochester, NY).

A memorial service will be held Sat., April 15, 2023 at 11 a.m. at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 14 State Street, Brockport. A combined reception with a light lunch and calling hours in the St. Luke’s parish hall will follow at 12 noon. All are welcome to attend either or both activities.

Internment, which is open to the public, will take place Wed., May 10, 2023 at 11 a.m., at Lakeview Cemetery, 4988 Lake Road, Brockport. Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to St. Luke’s Episcopal Church or the Morgan Manning House in Brockport.  Arrangements entrusted to Fowler Funeral Home Inc.

MIDDLEPORT – Donna L. Ribbeck, 72, died April 3, 2023 in Buffalo General Hospital following a short illness.

She was born March 25, 1951 in Lockport to Glenn and Louella (Hasser) Ribbeck, Sr. and was a life-long resident of this area.

Donna was a member of T.O.P.S., the MT. Morris VFW Ladies Auxiliary, and enjoyed reading and cooking.

Ms. Ribbeck was predeceased by her parents, and her siblings, Patricia and Glenn Ribbeck. Jr.

She is survived by her brother, Ernest (Marsha) Ribbeck of Medina; her sister, Evelyn Jones of Middleport as well as several nieces and nephews including a special niece, Carrie Ribbeck and special friend, Debbie Glenn.

The family will receive friends at the Bates, Wallace & Heath Funeral Home, 38 State St., Middleport, on Tuesday, April 11, from 4 to 7 p.m. A private graveside service will be held at the convenience of the family in Pioneer Cemetery in Akron.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Niagara County SPCA, 2100 Lockport Rd., Niagara Falls, NY 14304.  To share a special memory of Donna, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

HOLLEY – James P. Mignano Jr., 74, died unexpectedly April 3, 2023 in Unity Hospital. He was born July 20, 1948 in Medina to James and Ona (Ward) Mignano Sr. and after growing up in Hulberton had lived in this area all of his life.

Jim was a member of the Holley Fire Department for more than 40 years, and held officer positions years ago. He enjoyed hunting, bowling, golfing and was an avid MOPAR enthusiast.

 He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Debbi; his son, Andy (Codi) Mignano of Holley; an aunt, several cousins and many friends.

There will be no calling hours and services and interment 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, P.O. Box 495, Holley, New York, 14470.

Jim’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home of Holley.  To share a special memory of Jim, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

LOCKPORT – Candida Lugo, formerly of Medina, entered into rest on Sunday, April 2, 2023 at Buffalo General Hospital.

Mrs. Lugo was born in San German, Puerto Rico on February 2, 1941, a daughter of the late Jesus and Maria (DelGado) Flores.

Having family and friends already in the states, she emigrated to the United States in 1960. On March 14, 1958 she married the late Pablo Lugo, Sr. and together they made Medina their home. Mrs. Lugo was a parishioner of St. Mary’s R.C. Church in Medina. She worked various jobs over the years, including for Bird’s Eye in Medina. Candida was a great cook and enjoyed showing her love through her food, cooking meals for family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Pablo Lugo, Sr. on August 7, 2007; along with several siblings.

Left to cherish her memory are her children, Marlene Gonzalez, Pablo Lugo, Jr. of Lockport and Richard (Lynne) Lugo of Gasport; grandchildren, Refugio Gonzalez, Jr., Jerrica Lugo, Pablo Lugo III, Alexandra (Matt) Dzurishin and Richard D. Lugo; sisters, Nova and Carmen; brother, Cheo; a brother in-law and sisters-in-law; and several nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, April 7, from 2 to 4 p.m. with her funeral service immediately to follow at 4 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Father Mark Noonan will officiate. Share memories and condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

MEDINA – David A. Payne, 80, passed away on Saturday, April 1, 2023 peacefully with his protective, devoted, and loving daughter Gerrilu by his side. Gerrilu was blessed to have been one of David’s longtime devout friends. Jan Nudd was present to comfort the both of them during his passing.

David was born in Medina on September 22, 1942, a son to the late Evelyn “Jake” Payne and Evelyn (Abbott) Payne. If his parents were alive to tell you what made David stand out as one of their 4 children, it would have been his mischievous behavior and the knack for playing pranks on family and friends, a trait that carried through to his adulthood.  As a child it was apparent that David would gravitate to a career in farming when his father could not restrain him from sneaking out of the house to turn the agitator off in order to steal some cream for his morning cereal.

After David graduated from Medina High School, both he and his high school sweetheart, the former Phyllis Donelson, pursued college educations at Purdue University, during which time they were married. David played football for the Purdue Boilermakers where he earned the nickname “Boom Boom”; just one of the many nicknames he would hold during his lifetime. They were both elated when their family grew into a party of three and their daughter Gerrilu was born.

David’s early career path with FMC took him and his family traveling to Wisconsin and California before realizing that his true passion was for farming. In 1974 his devoted family supported his career change and moved back to Medina, where David would spend the rest of his life doing what he loved most, Farming. The life of a dairy farmer is not an easy one. You sleep and eat when the cows do.  With that being said, David did find time every other Friday night to enjoy his .10 cent wings and DJ entertainment at the Applegrove Inn. This is where he earned his second nickname: Disco Dave.

When David was not milking the cows or chasing the ones that jumped the fence, he enjoyed flying planes. He obtained his private pilot’s license and was a member of the Medina Pilot Association. Although unable to fly anymore David did not give up on his hobby.  He spent countless hours with his loyal feline companion, MommaKitty on his keyboard, watching a variety of YouTube videos which centered around airplanes. He did all this while enjoying his lifetime addiction to ice cream.

David was always a quiet person, a man of few words with a big personality and a great sense of humor. A prankster to the very end, in less than a minute after he left us, a false fire alarm was triggered in the hospital. It was his quiet yet striking exit from the hospital. The stories are endless and the history he made in Medina was historical. He was a very kind and humble human being that would sacrifice so others could benefit. His contagious smile, dedication to his family, friends and profession will truly be missed by the Medina Community.

Sadly, David was predeceased by his wife, Phyllis Payne on April 23, 1975; and parents, Evelyn “Jake” and Evelyn Payne.

He is survived by his daughter, Gerrilu (Eric Hofmeister); brothers, Donald Payne (Jeannie Scroger), Duane (Patricia) Payne and Dan Payne; granddaughters, Ryan Anne (Andy Toale) Campbell and Ashley Renee Castricone; and great-grandchildren, Jaydin and Alexa Demmer and Noah David Toale. Also left to mourn, Dave (Linda) Jones, partner in crime and loyal friend for over 30 years; and his most loyal feline companion, “MommaKitty”.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, April 8 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Private interment will take place at the convenience of the family in West Ridgeway Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to the Knights-Kaderli Foundation, PO Box 684, Medina, NY 14103; Medina Memorial Hospital- 2^nd Floor Patient Rehab Center, 200 Ohio St., Medina; or to the Medina FFA, 1 Mustang Drive, Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

ALBION – Barry G. Fitch passed away unexpectedly at his home on Fri., March 31, 2023.

Born September 17, 1951 in Medina, he was a son of the late Blaine J. Fitch and Elsie (Varley) Withey.

He was a graduate of Medina High School. A hard worker, Barry worked for various operations over the years, mainly in heavy equipment operating and truck driving. He was employed by Root Bros. Farm for many years and retired as a loader operator for Shelby Crushed Stone.

Outside of work, Barry cherished spending time with and talking on the phone with his family and friends. He was a loving, caring and devoted family man. He also enjoyed hunting, watching NASCAR racing and baseball. Barry was a self-proclaimed “jack of all trades, master of none”, which helped him build a home for his family with his own two hands.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by stepfather, Raymond Withey and his brother, Blaine W. “Bill” Fitch.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Joya Burgio Fitch; two sons, Brandon Fitch (Elizabeth) and Nick Fitch (Stefanie); four siblings, Bonnie (late Norm) Waters, Brian Withey (Bonnie), Beth Miller and Brenda (Steve) Gardepe; and several nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held on Thurs., April 6 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to PAWS Animal Shelter, 3371 Gaines Basin Rd., Albion, NY 14411. Share memories and condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

MIDDLEPORT – Aleith N. Mittlestadt Godleske, 86, of Middleport, wife of the late Leonard M. Godleske (1981) and the late Kenneth H. Mittlestadt (1955), passed away on Wednesday, March 29, 2023, at Buffalo General Medical Center.

Aleith was born on July 6, 1936, to the late Arnold and Margaret (Manchester) Niles in the Town of Hartland.

Aleith worked for many years in administration at the FMC Corp. in Middleport and her last position was as an Executive Admin at Wyndham Lawn Home for Children in Lockport. She was a member of the Middleport United Methodist Church for over 50 years and served on several church committees including the Finance and Staff Parish Relations teams as well as the Knitter’s Club. In her spare time, she loved traveling and camping with the Happy Wanderers Camping Club.

Aleith is survived by her son Mark (Kim) Mittlestadt, daughters Karen Mittlestadt, and Laura (James) Pontillo. Also surviving are grandchildren Lindzay and Shelby Mittlestadt, Shanece Floyd, Keianna Hall, Asia and Angel Hill, great-grandchildren LaMya and Jahon and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and late husbands, she was predeceased by her sister Lois (John) Riddle, son Paul Mittlestadt, and grandson Kenneth Mittlestadt.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, April 4, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Bates, Wallace, and Heath Funeral Home at 38 State St. in Middleport.

Her funeral will be held on Wednesday, April 5, at 10 a.m. at the Middleport United Methodist Church, 6 Park Ave. in Middleport. Burial will be in Hartland Central Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Middleport United Methodist Church or the American Cancer Society.

To share a special memory of Aleith visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Raymond J. “RJ” Morgan, 53, of Medina, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Monday, March 27, 2023.

Born July 9, 1969 in Medina, RJ was the son of the late Raymond P. “Pete” Morgan and Patricia A. (Wengrzycki) Morgan. He was a graduate of Medina High School, Class of 1987. Since he was a child, RJ’s passion in life was undoubtedly firefighting. He began his firefighting career with the Village of Medina Fire Department in 1991. He earned the rank of Captain and was also a NYS Fire Instructor from 2006-2013. RJ retired from Medina Fire Department in 2012.

Following retirement, he began Morgan’s Enterprise, a snow plowing and lawncare company, which he enjoyed running alongside his sons. RJ was a sports enthusiast and loved camping with family and friends. RJ was known for always being willing to help anyone in need. He will be dearly missed by his family, friends and the entire Medina community.

Left to cherish his memory are his fiancé, Karen Nashwenter; two sons, Kyle Morgan and Justin Morgan (Shannon Stephenson); stepdaughters, Aubrey Fortunato (Bryan Mullins), Alecia (Kenneth) Urbanik and Amber Fortunato (Zachary Baldwin); step grandsons, Jaxon and Maverick; mother, Patty Morgan; sister, Julie Hibbard (Brian Southcott); mother of his children, Roxane (Paul) Mann; nephew, Scott Hibbard; niece, Allison Hibbard; several aunts, uncles and extended family. RJ was predeceased by his father, Pete Morgan in 2018; brother in-law, Steve Hibbard in 2017; and uncle, Scott Wengrzycki in 1987.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday, April 2 from 2:00-6:00 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Interment will be privately held in Boxwood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Medina Fire Dept.- Benevolent Association, 600 Main St., Medina, NY 14103 or to Medina Sports Boosters, 316 South Ave., Medina, NY 14103. Share memories and condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com

LYNDONVILLE – Cheryl C. Mart (Imbriglio) died on March 25, 2023 at age 75. She was predeceased by her parents, Domenic & Cecilia Imbriglio, and her brother, Gary Imbriglio.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 25 years, Kenneth; her son, Leonard (LoAnn) Desmond; grandchildren, Leanne & Domenic Desmond; her brother & sister, Carmine (Jane) Imbriglio and Gail (Zachary) Ashes; many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Cheryl worked for 31 years at Monroe Community College, first as a secretary in the admissions office and the English department. She later worked for the Deans of Arts & Humanities, Social & Behavior Sciences, and Business Administration. She finished her career as the administrative assistant to the Dean of Science, Health and Business.

She received the Distinguished Service Award for Support Staff in 1985.  She served on the Support Staff Professional Development Committee for several years. She was on numerous support staff search and hiring committees throughout the College. She organized many faculty professional development workshops and honors convocations, served on the Rochester Academy of Science Annual Meeting Committee which was hosted by MCC in 2004, served on the Kodak Day at MCC Committee in 2004. She was a co-captain for the Monroe Community College Foundation’s Building on Success campaign in 2000 and a member of the Office Technology Advisory Committee in 2003-2004.

Cheryl was also an active member in the International Association of Administrative Professionals for more than twenty years, serving as President of the local Flower City Chapter from 1998 to 2000. She was honored as its Member of the Year in 2000.

She was a member of the Rochester Sail and Power Squadron Squardonettes, assisting with the boater safety mission of the organization.

In retirement years, Cheryl enjoyed spending time reading books, traveling to visit family, keeping up on her grandchildren’s school and sport activities; their gymnastics scores and soccer performance. She volunteered at Supportive Care of Orleans, where she performed various office duties. She also was an Orleans County Board of Elections Poll Worker for local, state and national elections.

Calling hours Thursday 4-7 p.m. at Falvo Funeral Home, 1395 N. Goodman St. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Supportive Care of Orleans at 14080 Rte. 31 West, Albion, NY 14411. Interment private.

MEDINA – Joanne Irene Feller, 70, of Medina, passed away on March 26, 2023 at United Memorial Medical Center.

Joanne was born June 16,1952 in Medina, a daughter of the late Ferdinand and Virginia (Allen) Kopitzki.

Joanne loved being with her family, she was a doting grandmother who was known as Oma by her grandchildren.  She adored her cats, birds, her dog, Gizmo and also loved elephants.  While she worked at the former Super Duper/Jubilee in Medina, Joanne developed a special bond with all of her “kids” that worked with her. 

Surviving are her husband of 51 years, Hebert Feller, Jr. of Medina; children, Yvonne (Jeffery) Freeman of LeRoy, Gretchen (Donald) Carr of Albion, James (Noelle) Feller of Brockport and Carla Feller of Medina; grandchildren, Schuylar Freeman, Teaghan Freeman, Elijah Feller and Madison Feller; a brother, Robert Kopitzki of Holley; sisters, Jean (late William) Taylor of Barker and Sandra Ruth of Greece and several nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by her son, Herbie Feller.

Services for Joanne will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to American Cancer Society, www.cancer.org. Please leave a condolence, share a story, or light a candle at www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements for Joanne were entrusted to the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, Batavia, (585) 343-8868.