Obituaries

MIDDLEPORT – Duane “Butch” Schultz, 70, of Middleport, NY, lost his battle to multiple myeloma on December 23, 2022, after being blessed with a week-long family celebration in California with his children and grandchildren.

Butch was born and raised in Middleport, a son of the late Ruth and Levern Schultz. He worked as a tool and die maker, machinist, and since his retirement could be found tinkering on something in the garage whenever he was home.

Ever since a young age, Butch lived life to the fullest on his terms with one foot on the gas and one foot in the grave. He loved fast cars, admiring women, and driving around discovering treasures that others had discarded and giving them new life. He could be found in his garage for hours working on cars, tractors, building a new creation he had come up with or just daydreaming of his next big invention (but mostly day dreaming).

Despite all his doubters and critics, Butch always went everywhere with love. He always talked to strangers and rough necks, was always kind. No matter what the activity of the day was, he was never in a hurry and always did it his way. Of all things, Butch’s greatest accomplishment in life was his family.

He is survived by his daughters Heidi (Anthony Wasch) Coleman, Jodi (Michael) Schultz-Waild, sons Christopher (Adrienne) Schultz and Nicholas (Aimee) Schultz, and son-in-law Steven Coleman; grandchildren Keith and Tori Coleman, Austin and Tarin Waild, and Zoe Schultz; sisters Anita (Chris) Jones, Eileen (Eric) Ambrose, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family.

Duane is predeceased by his wife Kay Loraine Gurnsey Schultz and granddaughter Sophie Schultz.

The family would like to extend gratitude to Medina Memorial Hospital Emergency Department and Buffalo General Hospital ICU for their extraordinary care and attention during this most difficult time. To the Medina Fire Department for providing Butch with one last fast smooth ride.

In accordance with Butch’s wishes there will be no prior visitation, but family and friends are invited to gather in the spring for a celebration of his life. Donations may be made to the charity of your choice.

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

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

LYONDONVILLE – Mary F. Draper, age 65, died on December 20^th, 2022 following a long battle.  She was born to Lester and Elizabeth McGarry on December 20^th, 1957 in Brockport, NY and lived in Lyndonville for most of her life.

Mary was predeceased by her parents and five of her siblings; William, Rob, Jimmy, Patty, and Leslie.

She will be remembered with love by her sons, Michael Larson and Leon; siblings, Bonnie and Charlie, nieces; Abby, Crystal, Julie, and Brianna; and nephew, Robert Potter.

Mary liked to spend her time knitting and creating plastic canvas designs. She also loved listening to country music, tending to her flowers, and playing with her “two pains in the butt” (chihuahuas); Miley and Minnie.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, December 27^th at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 21 West Ave., Albion NY 14411 from 10-12 where her funeral service will follow immediately after. Interment will be held in the spring at Lakeview Cemetery in Brockport.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Mary’s name may be made to PAWS, 3371 Gaines Basin Rd, Albion, NY 14411.

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

FUNERAL UPDATE: The funeral for Katie E. Miller will now be held at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday at the home of Steven Miller, 10749 Ridge Rd. Medina, NY 14103.

Katie E. (Kline) Miller, 75, of Medina, NY passed away on December 21, 2022 at her home, after a period of declining health.

She was born June 14, 1947 to the late Eli J. and Lydiann (Mast) Kline. On March 30^th, 1967 she married Mose J.E. Miller, who preceded her in death on February 24, 2012.

She enjoyed working various jobs at her family business, Millers Bulk Food on Ridge Rd. Medina. Katie was lovingly known by all as “Grandma” and enjoyed riding her bicycle. Most of all, she cherished the time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Katie is survived by her four children, Martha (Matthew) Yoder of Lyndonville, NY; Steven (Rosie) Miller of Medina, NY; Miriam (Mark) Miller of Lyndonville, NY; Marcus (Rosemary) Miller of Medina, NY; 21 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren; two sisters Mattie (Atlee J.) Miller of Greenville, PA; Mary (Wayne) Wengerd of Millersburg, OH; two sisters-in-laws, Mary Ann Kline, Susan Kline, and a brother-in-law, Ed Yoder.

In addition to her husband and parents, she is predeceased by her sisters, Verna and Anna. Brothers, Dan and Al and three grandchildren, Regina, Seth and Angela Miller.

Relatives and friends may call on Saturday, December 24, and Sunday, December 25^th   from 1-4 PM & 6-8 p.m. at the home of Steven Miller, 10749 Ridge Rd. Medina, NY 14103. The funeral will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday at the home of Steven Miller, 10749 Ridge Rd. Medina, NY 14103.

. Burial will be in the Lyndonville Amish Cemetery.

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

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

Holley: Virginia E. “Ginger” Engert, age 80, passed away December 21, 2022. She was born January 12, 1942 in Brockport to the late William and Virginia (Hogan) Zeiner.

Virginia enjoyed knitting, puzzles, crosswords, BINGO and was known for her great personality and being a jokester.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her significant other, Richard Battaglia, Sr., son Douglas, brother Randy and brother-in-law, Gary Mowers.

Virginia is survived by her children, Jay (Petra) Engert, Mike (Sue) Engert, Lorie (Gordon) Dennis, Cherie (Jonathan) Black, Marylou Engert, Shauna (Dave) McKee, John Jones, several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings, Rosemarie Mowers, Anita (Jim) Lorenzo, Chuck (Mary) Zeiner, Kevin Zeiner, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Services for Virginia will be held privately.

Memorial contributions in Virginia’s name may be made to PAWS, Mr. Grey’s Strays, or Duffy’s Friends.

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

To share a special memory of Virginia, please visitwww.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com

Gertrude T. White, of Medina, passed away on Monday, December 19, 2022 at the Orchard Manor Rehab & Nursing Center.

Born April 7, 1928 in Medina, Gertrude was a daughter of the late Edward and Victoria (Yanoszak) Bialoblocki. The family lived on Erin Road and Gertrude graduated from Sacred Heart School. She worked for Birds Eye in Medina, T.J. Lipton Co. in Albion and finally for White Bros. Rose Corp. Gertrude enjoyed attending family reunions and loved spending time with her family.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her sister, Florence (Raymond) Yates; brother, Francis White; nephews, Ronald Yates, Robert (Donna) Yates and Francis Yates; niece, Theresa (Kenneth) Keller; and a great-nephew, Jimmy Yates.

Survivors include her niece, Cathy (Bill) Cotriss; a nephew, Thomas (late Christina) Yates; and niece in-law, Loreeta Yates; great-nieces and nephews, Cynthia Flynn (Ken Hammond), Christian (Tessa) Cotriss, Jesse Cotriss (Heather Harrington), Heather Weaver, Tina (Scott) Oosterling, David Yates, Lisa (Mark) Wells, Brenda Witkowski, Raymond (Sheryl) Keller, Mary Beth Frasier, Sarah (Jeff) Gonzalez and Heath Yates; along with many great-great nieces and nephews. The family would also like to thank the personal caretakers that watched over her for the past 4 years, Jessica, Donna and Sherry.

An hour of visitation will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 28 from 12:00-1:00 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina, where her funeral will follow at 1:00 p.m. Interment will be in Boxwood Cemetery. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com

(ALBION, NY/ORONO, ME) Marta Eugenia (Lamanna) Goodale, 82, of Orono, Maine, died peacefully on December 17, 2022 following a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Marta was born July 23, 1940 in Lackawanna, New York.  She was raised in Albion, New York by her beloved parents, Anthony and Augustina (Spalla) Lamanna.  Marta is predeceased by her dear husband of nearly 50 years, Eric Goodale.  Marta is survived by her son Jeffrey Goodale and wife Audrey, of Barker New York, her daughter Ruth Lyman and husband Matthew, of Danvers, Massachusetts, grandchildren Elizabeth, Emily, Erin, Elgie (deceased), Desiree, Abby and Claire, four sisters-in-law, Martha Goodale, Teresa Goodale, Linda Roemer and Deborah Cole, nieces and nephews Jack, Matthew, Elizabeth and their spouses Sarah and Kaylee, as well as several great-grandchildren and great-nieces and nephews.

Marta was a force of good in the world.  Her career as a social worker held incredible value to her and she gave every position she held all of her heart and soul.  Marta’s entire working life was devoted to helping the disadvantaged, as evidenced from her work with Head Start as a parent coordinator then mental health case worker, to hospital social worker where she established the first county-wide medical alert system, case manager in a sheltered workshop, to youth probation officer in Oswego County, and wrapping up her long career at the Bangor Area Homeless Shelter.  Marta devoted her life to helping others live a life of dignity and pride. 

Outside of work, Marta doted on her family.  Her children and grandchildren were an immense source of pride.  Nothing gave Marta more pleasure than spending time with her children and extended family.  Her dear husband Eric loved her unconditionally and was Marta’s loving caretaker for many years leading up to his death.  Marta and Eric shared so many things in common, but probably most notably, a love of music. Marta was a performer at heart and loved every musical genre, from opera to classical to country and everything in between. Marta enjoyed singing in many different groups over the years.  In her later years when words often failed her, Marta would often sing or conduct along to favorite melodies. 

To say Marta was generous is an understatement.  She donated to many, many charitable organizations, some of her favorites being NOW, Planned Parenthood, Amnesty International, the World Wildlife Federation, the Humane Society and countless others. Marta’s heart was always focused on helping those less fortunate and she had a deep love and admiration for animals, both domestic and wild. Marta will be remembered for (among so many other things) her quick wit, often silly sense of humor, and her empathy.  Marta’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home in Albion.  To share a special memory of Marta, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com

“The song is ended, but the melody lingers on…”-Irving Berlin

ALBION – Vera M. Kingdollar, 91, passed away peacefully December 19, 2022, at the Martin Linsin Hospice Residence. She was born March 10, 1931, in Hornell, NY, the daughter of the late Cecil and Jessie (Davis) Moore. 

Vera enjoyed watching soap operas, crossword puzzles, Yahtzee, owls, eagles and butterflies. She loved family times, especially during the holidays and getting her nails done.

She was predeceased by her loving husband of 69 years, John Kingdollar; son, Roger Kingdollar and great-grandson, Raymond Kingdollar; and siblings, Cecil, Ron, Kip and David Moore, Zola Smith and Colleen Sauro.

Vera is survived by her children, Eric (Bonnie) Kingdollar of Barre, Pamela (Robert) Dennis of Albion, Rita (William Quaranto) Kingdollar of Waterport; daughter-in-law, Linda Kingdollar of Holley; brothers-in-law, Russell (Mary) Kingdollar of Barre Center and James Kingdollar of Albion; grandchildren, Roger (Maggie) Kingdollar, Ann (Dennis) Buzard, Timothy (Tammy) Kingdollar, Amy (Brian) Lusk, Troy (Michelle) Kingdollar, Stacey Kaniecki, April (Jason) Boyce, Barbie Daniels; several great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; siblings, Robert Moore, Frieda Sabo, Betty Fulks, Bernice Smith and Sandy Kozlowski and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes 16650 Route 31 in Holley on Tuesday, Dec. 27, from 4 to 7 p.m. followed by Vera’s funeral service at 7 p.m. Private interment will be in Hillside Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Supportive Care of Orleans. https://supportivecareorleans.org/

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

BARRE – The family of George Dudley Mathes of the Town of Barre is sad to announce his death on Thursday, December 15, 2022, at the age of 74.

He will be remembered with love by his wife of 54 years, Eugenia R. “Sally” Mathes; his sons, Andrew “Drew” Mathes Sr. (Heidi Morgenstern) of Rose, James Mathes of Holley, and Veronica Mathes (Joe Fletcher) of Wolcott; grandchildren, Andrew “Andy” Mathes Jr. of Wolcott, Kathleen “Katie” Mathes of Clyde, and Hannah “Hailee” Mathes of New York City; great grandson, Bennett Mathes of Wolcott; sisters Jeanne Gomez (Donald Seyrle, deceased) of Rochester, Kathryn Wells (James) of Albion, and Barbara Mathes-Abaunza (Benjamin Abaunza) of Arlington VA; brother, Richard Mathes (Catherine Homrig) of Byron; sisters-in-law, Rebecca “Becca” Abele of Zanesville OH, and Deborah “Debba” Sekou of Laconia NH; many nieces and nephews, and many friends; especially Josh Avila and Mike Mele.

He was predeceased by his brothers Robert and Ronald, and by his parents, Dudley A. and Margaret (Basinait) Mathes.

George was a lifelong resident and farmer, spending his early years in the Town of Clarendon, and his adult years in the Town of Barre.  He attended Holley Schools through 10^th grade, then shifted to Albion in order to take agricultural mechanics. He was active in FFA and 4-H.

George spent two years attending Cornell College of Agriculture, where he met Sally, and left college to marry her and work with his father.

Shortly after he married, George found employment at Kodak, where he became a journeyman machinist, while continuing to farm with his father. In 1979, he and his father and brother Ronald formed a partnership, which continued operation until his father’s death in 2009. George continued to farm but gradually reduced the size of the operation until full retirement in 2020.

George was proud of his service to the Town of Barre. He served on the combined Zoning and Planning Board and helped develop the Joint Comprehensive Master Plans for the Towns of Barre and Albion and the Village of Albion, which was completed and adopted during his term as Supervisor of the Town of Barre. Also completed while he was Supervisor were water districts 2, 3 and 4.

George was a familiar sight as he drove a regular route through the area around his farm, stopping to talk to neighbors and lend a hand when needed. We will miss him.   

There will not be any services.

Memorial donations in George’s name may be made to the Barre Fire Company, 4709 Oak Orchard Rd, Albion, NY 14411 or to the Clarendon Fire Company, P.O. Box 136, Clarendon, NY 14429. George’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home of Albion, NY.

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

MEDINA – Dr. Ekram John Boulos, 69, of Medina, NY died suddenly and unexpectedly on December 14, 2022 at his home.

Dr. Boulos was born in Cairo, Egypt on to the late John and Marie Boulos. He was a class clown who excelled in school, showing intellectual aptitude that eventually would send him to medical school. He served a brief residency in Oswestry, Wales, and finally a dream residency position in the Otolaryngology department at Sisters of Charity Hospital in Buffalo. There he began a long career in medicine that touched thousands of lives across Western New York and ended most recently with a practice at Roswell Park Cancer Institute.

By his side from his teenage years, and through nearly 45 years of marriage, was his beloved wife, Neveen, on whom he counted for love and support over the many years that they made their lives in Medina, and with whom he had two daughters, Chelseay (Will West) and Hannya (Cian Morrey), the apples of his eye whom he adored immensely.

They all survive him, as do his three cherished siblings, Dalal (the late Elias Bedrossian), Sherif, and Daizy (Adel Abdel-Messih), nieces and nephews Diane, Pierre, Leena and Rita, and countless cousins, friends, and colleagues.

He had a mischievous sense of humor and was a challenge-seeker who pursued endless projects and hobbies: skiing, golf, racquetball, gardening, and most recently a plan to spend “retirement” in Umbria, Italy farming olives and learning Italian, a fourth language. He will be remembered for his kindness, his generosity, his wit, his nicknames, his eclectic taste in clothing, music, and art, and his strong will.

His Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on December 27 at 9:30 a.m. at Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church, 211 Eagle St., Medina, NY 14103.

In lieu of flowers, the Boulos family encourages donations in EJ’s honor to Holy Trinity Catholic Parish at the address above, Roswell Park Cancer Institute at www.roswellpark.org/giving or to the P.A.W.S. Animal Shelter, 3371 Gaines Basin Rd., Albion, NY 14411 or www.paws14411.com.

Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

BARRE – Helen V. Drake, 77, died December 14, 2022 in United Memorial Medical Center following a long illness. She was born June 26, 1945 in St. Alban’s West Virginia to Marshall and Flora (McCune) Wooten and had lived in this area most of her life.

Helen was an avid gardener and enjoyed working in her flower gardens. She also enjoyed watching TV but her greatest joy and most important thing in her life were her grandchildren.

Ms. Drake was predeceased by her son, Jonathon Lee Grove; daughter, Deborah Lynn Whittier; and sister, Joann Nash.

She is survived by her son, David (Michele) Wooten of PA; her brother, Clifford Wooten of OH; sisters, Phyllis Dent of AZ, Geneva Moore of Albion and Linda Wooten of Barre; 9 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandchild as well as several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 21 West Avenue-Albion, on Wednesday (Dec. 21) from 12-1 p.m. where her funeral service will be held at 1 p.m.

Interment will follow in Mt. Albion Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Supportive Care of Orleans, 14080 NY-31, Albion, NY, 14411 supportivecareorleans.org or The Salvation Army at salvationarmyusa.org.

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

ALBION – Lenore M. Mardino, age 90 ½, of Albion, NY, formerly of North Collins, NY reunited with her husband, Alphonso, on December 14, 2022. Lenore was born June 14, 1932, in San Francisco, CA to the late Nicholas Massimo and Mary Blondino.

She had moved to the North Collins area in the 1950’s and spent over 60 years doing activities in the community like working at the voting polls, volunteering, and participating in craft shows. She moved to the Albion area in 2011 where she enjoyed volunteering at the Hoag Library. Lenore also loved needlepoint, shopping, reading, and watching soap operas.

Lenore was predeceased by her husband, Alphonso Mardino, in 2011, sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Egidio Pigozza, Tony (Lila) Mardino, Sam (Ann) Mardino, Pete (Viola) Mardino, Ralph (Josephine) Mardino, John (Madeline) Mardino, and Monroe Sherman.

Lenore is survived by her son: Nicholas (Cynthia) Mardino of Albion; grandchildren, Rob (Jodi) Anstey, John (Lisa) Anstey, and Nichole Hoffman; great-grandchildren; Dakota and Sage Anstey, Mike, Austin, Angelica Genno, Jason and Kailee Anstey, Isaac and Eli Hoffman, sister Jeanette Pigozzo, sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Neil (Shirley) Mardino, Jim (Anita) Mardino, Angie Sherman, Robert (Darlene) Mardino, Richard (Sarah) Mardino, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.    

Family and friends are invited to Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 21 West Avenue, Albion, NY 14411 on Monday, December 19^th from 5 to 7 p.m. with her service to follow at 7 p.m. There will also be calling hours at the Wentland Funeral Home, 10634 Main Street North Collins, NY 14111 on Tuesday, December 20^th from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. where a brief service will follow at 1:00pm. Interment will follow in Holy Spirit Cemetery in North Collins.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 6060.

To share a special memory of Lenore, please visitwww.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Beverly Dale Underwood, born on March 17, 1955 in North Tonawanda, NY, passed peacefully

into the arms of the Lord on Tuesday, December 13, 2022 at Kenmore Mercy Hospital,

surrounded by members of her loving family. Beverly was the beloved daughter of the late

Marion E. and late Arnold Underwood. She is survived by her sister Diane (Victor) Montgomery;

brothers: David (Jean) Underwood and Todd (late spouse Shirley) Underwood; brother-in-law:

William (late spouse Doreen) Kish; and many nieces and nephews.

Beverly loved dogs, horses, rescuing animals, helping people, camping, traveling and spending

time with her family. She graduated from Newfane High School in 1973 and immediately began

applying her keen love for dogs. She served in a leadership position with the 4H Club and taught

dog obedience at the YMCA, German Shepard Dog Club of WNY, Niagara Frontier Obedience

Association, Western Lakes Training Club and the Buffalo Schutzhund Club.

Beverly founded and operated the Pretty Pup Shop in Lockport which provided dog grooming

services for 20 years. In 1983, she founded and served as executive director for Canine Helpers

for the Handicapped, a non-profit organization with the double mission of helping people and

saving dog’s lives. There, she and her staff trained hearing, service, guide, mobility, psychiatric

service, multi-service, seizure, and therapy dogs for hundreds of handicapped clients nearby

and across the country. She worked closely with the Lions Club and other non-profit groups and

for many years made educational and fund-raising service dog presentations at their meetings

in New York and the surrounding states.

In 2004, Beverly won the Niagara Tribute to Women Award. Over the years, she also won the

Veterinary Medical Society Award, Gertrude Warren Leadership Award, and the International

Women’s Decade Award.

Relatives and friends may call from 10 am to 12 pm on Monday, December 19^th, 2022 at the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St. Medina, NY 14103, where a service will be held at 12:00 PM Burial will be in Acacia Park-Resthaven Cemetery, North Tonawanda, NY.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Beverly’s name to the American Diabetes Association or American Heart Association.

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

Clifford L. “Cliff” Carpenter, 73, of Medina, NY passed away to be with the Lord on Wednesday, December 14, 2022 at his home with his loving family at his side.

Born on February 15, 1949 in Medina, NY, he was the son of the late Elwin and Mary (Stillwell) Carpenter Sr.

When he was 16, Cliff enlisted in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and served as a Paratrooper. When he returned home, he married the former and late Charla K. Fadale and together they raised four children. Cliff was employed as an truck driver and diesel mechanic for several local trucking companies. He loved the outdoors, especially while he was hunting, fishing and tinkering around in his yard.

Cliff is survived his children, Clifford L. Carpenter Jr., Kevin Carpenter, Kurt (Amy) Carpenter and Kim (Brian) Newman, all of Medina, NY, eight grandchildren, Zachary, Kasey, Kati (Jimmy) Foley, Kayle, Kreg, Makena, Ty and Brandon, and two great-grandchildren, Jacob and Jaxon. Also surviving is a sister-in-law, Bonnie Carpenter of Medina and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Besides his parents and his wife Charla, Cliff is predeceased by his siblings, Joe and David Carpenter and a sister, Debbie Shingleton

Relatives and friends may call on Friday, December 16, 2022 at the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St. Medina, NY 14103 from 4 PM-7 PM, where a funeral service will be held on Saturday at 10:30 AM  with the Rev. Russell Peters officiating. Burial will be in the Boxwood Cemetery with full military honors.

Memorials may be made in Cliffs name to any cancer organization of one’s choice.

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

ALBION – Gary P. Preston, 70, passed away in his sleep December 12, 2022, following a short illness. Gary was born May 3, 1952 in Albion, the son of the late Ronald and Rose (Restivo) Preston. 

Gary was a member of Holy Family Parish, Albion Fire Dept. and St. Mary’s Archers Club.  Gary enjoyed cooking and would cook breakfast for the fishermen at St. Mary’s Archers Club.  He would also cook at the Albion Fire Dept. Recreation Hall and started Fatso’s Cook Crew. Gary was an avid NY Yankees and Green Bay Packers fan. Gary played Santa Claus for many years and enjoyed bringing smiles to everyone. His greatest enjoyment was spending time with his family.   

He is survived by his wife Lynette; sons, Justin and Mark; grandson, Ashton Preston; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Robert (Sandy) Wells; nephews, Adam (Danielle) Wells and Chris (Julie) Wells; great-nieces and nephews, Taylor, Camdyn, Mason and Emma Wells.

A family gathering will be private. Memorials may be made to the charity of your choice.

Gary’s arrangements are entrusted to Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, 21 West Avenue, Albion.

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

ALBION – Leslie (Les) L. Tabor, 78, of Albion, NY, entered eternal rest on December 12, 2022.

He was the son of the late Vincent and Gertrude Tabor, a brother to twelve siblings, including his identical twin, Wesley. 

Les was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. He was a proud member of the Carlton Fire Department for 43 years, serving his community was his passion.

He could be found at the Albion School supporting his grandchildren’s activities, playing cards with friends every Friday, enjoying dinners with his siblings on Sundays, and traveling with his family at any opportunity. He was a member of the Victory Baptist Church. He worked for many years at Flower City Tissue Mills in Rochester, T.J. Lipton in Albion and G/E B&D in Brockport.

Les will greatly be missed by his spouse of 51 years, Barbara; children: James (Heather) Tabor, Rebekah (Darryll) Beach, and Victoria Tabor; grandchildren, Preston and Autumn Flugel, Madelin Tabor, Dyllan, Katelyn and Myles Beach; siblings: Marjorie Manley, Wesley Tabor, Janice (Ted) Barrett, Daniel (Sheila) Tabor, David (Carol) Tabor, Michael (Fay) Tabor, Mitzi Boryszewski, Sally Tabor, Christine Tabor and his church family. 

He was predeceased by his siblings: Patricia Tabor, Charles Tabor and Nicholas Tabor.

His Celebration of Life Service will be held on Wednesday December 21^st at 11 a.m. at the Victory Baptist Church, 3713 Clarendon Rd., Albion NY 14411. Burial will be private at Mt. Albion Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Carlton Fire Dept. or to Victory Baptist Church. Arrangements were entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc. Albion.

To share a special memory of Les, please visitwww.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com. 

Irene “Mickey” (Whittleton) White, 100, formerly of Medina, NY, entered into rest on November 26, 2022.

Born October 27, 1922 in Medina, she was the daughter of the late James and Gladys (Llewellyn) Whittleton. Mickey was a graduate of Medina High School class of _1941. She worked for many years at FMC in Middleport as a key punch operator, retiring in 1985. Mickey was a member of the First Baptist Church in Medina. In 1984 she married Roland White. The couple were members of the Middleport United Methodist Church and they wintered in Florida for many years. In 2004 they moved to Austin, Texas to live with her daughter, Ellyn.

Mickey enjoyed roller skating, listening to organ music and especially enjoyed listening to Scottish bagpipers, which her family surprised her with at her 100^th birthday party.

Mickey was predeceased by her husband, Roland in 2007; her son, Albert W. Keller in 2021; and brothers, Arthur, James, Alfred and Norman Whittleton.

She is survived by her daughter, Ellyn (Greg) MacConnell of Austin, Texas; grandchildren, Melissa Henshaw, Kathryn Ames, Julie Keller (Frank) Rizzo and Brandon (Yolanda) Keller; great-grandchildren, Noah Henshaw, Olivia Henshaw, Elizabeth Axford, Nolan Axford,  Hannah Keller and Devon Keller; also several nieces and nephews.

Services, to be announced, will be held at a later date next spring. Burial will be in Boxwood Cemetery. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com

KENDALL – Stephen Arthur Seaman, age 82, went to be with the Lord on Saturday, December 10, 2022. He was born August 15, 1940 in Brockport, NY to Max and Helen Seaman. Stephen was a lifetime resident of Kendall, NY.

In addition to his parents, Stephen is predeceased by his high school sweetheart and beloved wife of 57 years, Mary Ellen Seaman; his brother, Martin; and sisters:  Sally, Elaine, and Eileen.

Stephen served in the United States Navy and was stationed in Turkey from 1965-1967. Once home, he secured a job at Rochester Telephone Company, where he was an Electrical Engineer. After his retirement, he became the Town of Kendall’s Assessor for ten years. In his retirement, he enjoyed going to coffee in the mornings with “the guys”, and attending and supporting his son’s and grandchildren’s events, and spending most of his time with his four-legged companion, Fiona.

Stephen is survived by his loving son, Patrick (Amy) Seaman; daughter-in-law Sandra (Mac) McNall; grandchildren: Samantha (Christopher) Flansburg, Rebecca (Adam) Grillo, Paula Miller, Steven (Carla) Miller; and six great-grandchildren: Luke Flansburg, Anna and Lena Grillo, Grace and Lydia Miller, and Madelyn Bell; brother, Timothy (Terri) Seaman; sister, Susan (Jim) Zornow; sister-in-law, Dorothy Seaman; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A memorial service to honor Stephen’s life will be held on Sunday, Dec. 18, at 3 p.m. at St John’s Lutheran Church at 1107 Lake Road North, Hamlin, New York 14464. Stephen’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home of Albion, NY.

Memorials may be made to Supportive Care of Orleans or donations to St. John’s Lutheran Church.

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

Kent: David G. Reis, Sr., age 90, passed away unexpectedly on December 11, 2022. He was born December 15, 1931 in Rochester to the late Frank and Olive (Parrish) Reis.

David worked for the Orleans County Sheriff’s Department for over 20 years. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife Joyce in 2007, brothers, Paul, Frank, Bob, and Chuck.

David is survived by his children, David (Joan) Reis, Jr., Lynda (Jim) Bullivant, Carol Reis-Burchfield, Edwin Reis, Bonny (Keith) Tymkin, several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

A memorial service for David will be held at Concordia Lutheran Church in Kendall at a later date.

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

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

MEDINA- Richard H. “Dick” Nellist, entered into rest on Sunday, December 4, 2022. Born on the family farm in the Town of Somerset on October 5, 1929, he was the youngest son of Donald and Esther (Bloomfield) Nellist.

After graduating from Barker High School in 1946, Dick served in the U.S. Army as a member of the 7^th Hospital Band stationed in Valley Forge, PA. In 1954, he married the former Shirley Maxon and together they settled in Medina.

He was employed for 31 years by Harrison Radiator in Lockport and retired in 1987. He was a charter member of the Medina Auxiliary Police, where he served both as Lieutenant and as Captain.

Being a local history buff, he was a member of the Medina Historical Society and served as Historian for the Town of Ridgeway for 20 years. In 2017, he and his wife, Shirley were honored as “Heritage Heroes” for their efforts in preparing detailed records for the 11 cemeteries in the Town of Ridgeway- over 11,000 burials all told, which are now loaded into the Orleans County Genweb system online and available for anyone doing genealogical research.

Always interested in music, Dick was a member of T.O.P.A. and actively participated in several of the group’s musicals in the 1960’s and 1970’s. In his 80’s, he again began “blowing the horn” as a member of the Barker Community Band.

Dick is survived by his son, Gregory M. (Lynne) Nellist of Medina; daughter, Patricia A. (Jon) Holden of Lockport; granddaughters, Amanda Holden of Washington D.C. and Krista A. Nellist (Ryan Leffler) of Churchville. He was predeceased by his wife, Shirley Nellist in 2019; grandson, Michael Holden in 2018; and brother, Robert Nellist in 2020.

Friends may call on Wednesday, December 21 from 1:00-3:00 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina, where his memorial service will immediately follow at 3:00 p.m. Interment will be in the Somerset Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Medina Historical Society, 406 West Ave., Medina, NY 14103 or the Barker Community Band, P.O. Box 43, Barker, NY 14012. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com

MEDINA – Francis J. Balcerzak, of Medina, passed away peacefully at home with his daughter by his side on Monday, December 9, 2022. Born November 18, 1933 in Medina, he was a son of the late Anthony and Agnes (Cotriss) Balcerzak.

Mr. Balcerzak was a graduate of Medina High School, class of 1953. Shortly after, he joined the U.S. Air Force and served from 1953-1957. On February 8, 1961 he married the former Ann Beyer. The couple resided in Medina and were parishioners of the former Sacred Heart of Jesus R.C. Church.

Early on, Mr. Balcerzak worked for Frank J. Balcerzak & Son Construction Co. before starting a career as a heavy equipment operator for the International Union of Operating Engineers, Local Union #17 in Niagara Falls, retiring after 40 years. Mr. Balcerzak was a member of Lincoln Post #1483, V.F.W., Junior Wilson Sportsman’s Club and the Sacred Heart Club. He was an avid gardener, enjoyed the outdoors, the Buffalo Bills and especially spending time with his grandchildren.

Survivors include his daughter Julie (late Charles) Calvert of Warsaw; grandsons, Jesse Calvert (Brianna Curle) of SC and Michael (Cortney) Calvert of Arcade; step-granddaughter, Alicia McRoy; four great-grandchildren, Caroline and Watson Calvert, Natalie Hiller and Charlotte McRoy; a brother, Michael (Carolyn) Balcerzak; sister in-law, Patricia Balcerzak; many nieces and nephews; and longtime caregivers, Laurel Bane and Ashley Petrie.

Predeceased by wife, Ann Balcerzak in 2003; and nine siblings, Joseph (Dorothy), Mary (William) Knights, Eleanor (Robert) Rignall, Helen (Thomas) Morien, Kate (William) Gun, Anthony, Jr., Loretta (Leo) Koneski, Leonard (Kathy) and Donald (Nedra) Balcerzak.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 14, from 10 a.m. to noon at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina, where his memorial service will immediately follow at noon. Interment with full military honors will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery.

**SERVICE UPDATE** Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, December 14 from 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. His Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 12:15 p.m. at Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church, 211 Eagle St., Medina.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Ridgeway Fire Co., 11392 Ridge Rd., Medina, NY 14103, Medina Lions Club, 711 Park Ave., Medina or to Supportive Care of Orleans at www.supportivecareorleans.org.

Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.