Obituaries

MEDINA – Daniel R. “Bob” Henning, Jr., of Medina, entered into rest unexpectedly on Thursday, July 4, 2024 at Buffalo Mercy Hospital at the age of 72.

Born December 3, 1951 in Lockport, he was the son of the late Daniel R. Henning, Sr. and Betty L. (White) Henning.

Affectionately known to his family as “Bob” and “Dan” to his friends, he grew up in Medina until the eighth grade, when his family moved to Lockport. Dan graduated from Lockport High School in the class of 1970. In 1971, he started his career with the City of Lockport in their water treatment department, retiring in 2006. Following retirement, Dan stayed active. He was an avid runner and enjoyed playing golf and poker. Dan was an excellent bowler and had scored thirteen 300 games in his life. A heart of gold, Dan was also an animal lover.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother in-law, Gordon K. Hooker II 2018 and his nephew, Kelly D. Hooker 2008.

Survivors include his sister, Catherine H. Hooker of Middleport; dearest lifelong friend, Raymond (Ellen Jo) Pratt of Medina; nephews, Joseph H. (Kimberly) Hooker and Gregory D. (Renee) Hooker; great-nephews, Nathan J., Joshua D. and Michael J. Hooker.

Per Dan’s wishes, there will be no formal funeral services. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina.

Please share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

WATERPORT – Maxime “Mickey” Pilon, age 81, died February 18, 2024 at home following a long illness. He was born October 16, 1942 in Albion to Arnold and Florence (Campbell) Pilon and was a life-long resident of this area.

Mickey was known as the guy in a cowboy hat and boots, perhaps the store butcher, or Mr. Elk but, mostly “Mickey.” Mr. Pilon was predeceased by his parents: Bud and Florence and his sister-in-law: Marilyn Pilon.

He is survived by his wife, Molly; his stepdaughter, Jennifer (Dan) Harding; his grandsons. Derek, Aidan and Payton; his brothers, Dick (Sibyl) Pilon, Bill (Linda Fraser) Pilon and Jim (Geri) Pilon as well as many nieces, nephews and two special friends, Brian and Carol.

Mickey’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home of Albion.

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

MEDINA – Karen L. Larson, 80, passed away peacefully at home on July 3, 2024, with family and loved ones by her side.

Born to Bernice (Koch) and Edwin I. Caleb on September 5, 1943, Karen grew up in West Shelby. She had the last of the idyllic childhoods, roaming the woods of West Shelby with her siblings, cousins, and friends, attending country school, and watching her parents run Caleb’s Grocery Store.

Karen graduated from Medina High School in 1960 and attended SUNY Brockport. She returned to her hometown to teach math at MHS just four years later at the invitation of her high school principal. She taught for 33 years, and teaching was a great passion of her life. Her philosophy was “I can teach anyone math,” and she impacted many MHS students over the years. She was also a cheerleader coach for many years.

In 1978, Karen married the love of her life, Gar. They loved life together for 36 years and went on many adventures, including trips to Florida and wherever they could find a casino. They were true companions and a great match. Karen was predeceased by Gar in 2015.

Karen’s favorite things included: the birth of her daughter, Corinne; Gar; card games with Bette, Donna, and Sue; spending time with her children and grandchildren; parties at Amy and Art’s; sitting and talking with Bette; anything that Mike cooks on the grill; all of her nieces and nephews; going to concerts with Shelley; crossword puzzles; her home; and music and musicals. Karen loved to laugh and had a wonderful and sometimes irreverent sense of humor that was a joy to be around.

Throughout her life, Karen’s immediate and extended family brought her great joy and a lot of laughter. They will miss her dearly.

She is survived by her daughters, Corinne (Kyle) Grimes of Bedford, MA; Natasha (Larry) Saubermann of Pittsford, NY; and Nanniscah Larson of North Palm Beach, FL, as well as her grandchildren, Lorenzo Luciani, Delaney Grimes, and Dempsey Grimes, who were her sunshine.

She is also survived by her sister, Bette Leffler, who was her closest friend and confidante; all of her nieces and nephews, who held special places in her heart; and her lifelong friends, Sue Holland and Nancy Odorizzi.

In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by her mother, Bernice Caleb (1996); father Edwin Caleb (1973); sister, Rita Navarra (2013); and brother, Edwin Caleb (2015).

Karen’s family would like to acknowledge the angels on earth who loved and cared for her during her final year of life: Tricia Trupo, Kendra Hill, and Krista Lawson. They made her days happy and comfortable, and she loved each of them in their own way. A special thank you to Tricia for everything she did to keep the dream team running smoothly. Thank you to Erin and Jennelle at Hospice of Orleans for all you offered and provided.

Calling hours with a brief service at its conclusion will be held on Saturday, August 10 from 1 to 4 p.m. 1 at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. A gathering will follow (details TBA), and all are encouraged to attend.

Memorial contributions in Karen’s name may be made to Hospice of Orleans at www.hospiceoforleans.org. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

George B. Yiengst III, age 90, of Pompano Beach, Florida, formerly of Buffalo, NY, died Tuesday, June 25, 2024 at his home in Florida.

Born April 24, 1934 in Buffalo, he was the only son of the late George B. Yiengst II and Frances (Borczynski) Yiengst and beloved stepson of the late Rachel Yiengst.

He was a retired monsignor with the Diocese of Buffalo. Monsignor was highly regarded at the parishes in which he served. He will also be fondly remembered for his compassion towards animals.

His Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, July 9 at 11 a.m. at Blessed Sacrament R.C. Church, 263 Claremont Ave, Buffalo, NY 14223. Graveside committal will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Medina at 2 p.m. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina.

Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

George Bernard Gerbig, 49, of Cazenovia, New York passed away Tuesday, July 2, 2024. He was born January 21, 1975 in Albion to Bernard and JoAnn Gerbig.

George was a graduate of Kendall Central School, Class of 1993 where he excelled in sports. While in high school, George was a member of the golf team, played forward on the basketball team and was the goalie of the soccer team. His greatest joy of playing sports was having his father coach his golf and soccer teams. George was also President of the school band and Student Council. He was a communicant of St. James Church.

George is survived by his mother, JoAnn Gerbig of Cazenovia; his brothers, James (Charlene) Gerbig of Hillsdale, NJ and William (Kori) Gerbig of Manlius, NY; his sister, Julee (Scot) Hartwell of Lake George, NY and by several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his father, Bernard F. “Ben” Gerbig in 2022.

A private Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. James Church. Contributions in George’s memory may be made to St. James Church, 6 Green Street, Cazenovia, NY 13035. Condolences for the Gerbig family may be left at www.michaelebrownfuneralservices.com.

ROCHESTER- Lee B. Campbell, age 50, passed away suddenly on Monday, July 1, 2024 at his home.

Born April 4, 1974 in Rochester, NY he was a son of the late Brian Campbell and Wendy Maw. On July 17, 2004 he married the love of his life, Mary E. (Weiland) Campbell. Lee worked in construction as a project manager for Wegman’s for 25 years. He enjoyed hunting, woodworking and most of all being a great father to his son, Kole. Lee will be remembered as a loving husband and dedicated father and will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Mary Campbell; his son, Kole Campbell; brothers, Tod (Wendi) Anken and Joey (Elizabeth) Zagmester; sister in-law, Joy (Jim) Zeitz; nieces, Tessa and Tisha Zeitz; nephews, Nathan Schutt and Joey Zegmester III; stepfather, Joseph Zagmester, Sr.; stepmother, Tess Campbell; and his best friends, Tiger (Dena) Earle and Jeff Schiffer.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, July 5 from 3-6PM at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate any donations in memory of Lee to be made to a college fund set up for his son, Kole at https://gofund.me/833c918f. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

MIDDLEPORT – Esther Brown, age 89, passed away June 28, 2024. She was born January 8, 1935 in the Town of Alabama to the late Elmer and Vera (Garrison) Wagner, Sr.

Esther loved to cook, can, and take trips to the casino. Esther was a great teacher and cook, teaching her family members and caretakers how to cook countless meals. She was a very proud Buffalo Bills season ticket holder in her younger years, traveling to not only home games, but games all over. She worked at FMC as a materials coordinator for 40 years before she retired. Esther most of all loved spending time with her family and watching it grow.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Richard, in 2021; siblings, Elmer (Elizabeth) Wagner, Jr., Betty (Lawrence) Pafk, Frances (Stanley) Benben, Richard (Joanne) Wagner, Carol (Carl) Schubel and Lois Ayler; sister-in-law, Betsy Neuman; brothers-in-law, Norman Forbes and Robert Brown; and loving dog, Spike.

Esther is survived by her daughters, Roxane (Mark) Botsford of Baldwinsville, Teri (Mark) Keeler of Albion, and Wendy (Gary) Purser of Newfane; grandchildren, Danielle Grilli, Christopher (Morgan) Botsford, Brett (Katlin) Botsford, Katherine (Ian) Foos, Christine (Clint) Masterson, James “Buddy” (Victoria) Keeler, Daniel “DJ” Davis and Allison Davis; great-grandchildren, Jayse and Jayden Grilli, Cash, Beau, Cal and Banks Botsford, Luke, Grace, and Rhett Masterson, Charlotte Foos, Elaina Keeler and soon to be baby Keeler; sister, Nancy Forbes; brother-in-law, Robert Ayler; caregivers, Pam Heideman, Lisa James, Kim Hare, Cindy Meer and Jayden Townsend; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

There are no prior calling hours. A memorial service for Esther will be held at the Bates, Wallace & Heath Funeral Home, 38 State St. Middleport on Tuesday, July 2, at 11 a.m. Interment will be in Hartland Central Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Niagara Hospice, 4675 Sunset Dr. Lockport, NY 14094 or St. Michael’s Lutheran Church 6379 Wolcottsville Road Akron, NY 14001.

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

GASPORT- Thomas E. Sullivan of Gasport, NY husband of Joanne Fletcher Sullivan entered into rest on June 23, 2024 at home. He was born in Lockport, NY on June 25, 1950, son of the late Emmett Sullivan and Marjorie McAvoy Sullivan.

Thomas owned and operated a trucking business for years, drove for Art Hill and retired from the Niagara County Water Dept. Thomas was a U.S. Army Veteran and served in Vietnam. He was a 54-year member of the Herbert W. Carr Post 425 of the American Legion serving as past commander, treasurer membership chairman and graves chairman. Thomas took great pride in overseeing the placement of markers and flags on over 1300 Veterans graves in the towns of Hartland and Somerset.

Father of Kevin (Kristin) Sullivan and Sara (Luke) Morehouse. Grandfather of Korbin and Konnor Sullivan. Brother of James (late Paula) Sullivan; Francis Patrick (Christine) Sullivan. Also survived by several nieces and nephews.

Family and friends may call at the Rutland-Corwin Funeral Home, Inc. 2670 Main St. Newfane, NY on Thursday, June 27, 2024, from 3-7pm. A Graveside service will be held on Friday, June 28, 2024 at 11am in Hartland Central Cemetery. The family requests donations to Herbert W. Carr Post #425- 1365 Quaker Rd. Barker, NY 14012.

HOLLEY – Donald Blosenhauer, age 69, passed away June 25th, 2024. He was born May 29th, 1955 in Albion to the late Joseph and Leona (Salisbury) Blosenhauer.

SYRACUSE – Shirley Ann Turner, of Syracuse, formerly of Albion passed away June 24, 2024 at the age of 74. She was born April 16, 1950 in Fort Valley, GA to the late Hazel Turner and L.M. Spivey.

Shirley initially started her work career in the airline industry but later switched careers to working in healthcare. Shirley worked as an LPN for many years at the Village of Orleans before she retired in 2015. Shirley enjoyed her retirement by traveling with her daughter, Jessica, scrapbooking and spending time with her family.

Shirley is survived by her two children, Jonathan (Kimberly) James, Jessica James, and her two beloved grandchildren, MacKenzie, and Madelyn. Shirley’s family meant everything to her and she was very proud of them and all their accomplishments. Shirley leaves us with her legacy of strength, courage, love and beautiful memories.

Shirley’s family will receive friends and loved ones at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 21 West Ave. Albion, NY 14411 on Monday, July 1st from 11:00-12:00pm. Her funeral service will follow at12:00pm with interment to follow at Mt. Albion Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in Shirley’s name may be made to American Diabetes Association or National Kidney Foundation.

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

MEDINA – James H. “Jimbo” Smith Jr. 72, of Medina, NY, entered into rest on Thursday, June 20, 2024 at Erie County Medical Center, Buffalo, NY.

Born on September 19, 1951 in Brooklyn, NY, he was the son of the late James H. and Ernestine (Cook) Smith Sr.

James was one of thirteen kids and two brothers and one sister who preceded his death Jules Smith, Juan Smith, Denine Smith and two stepsons Vincent Montague and Anselmo Montague. James was educated in the Brooklyn, New York City Public School system. James spent his entire career as truck driver. James relocated to Medina, NY over 20 years ago with his lifelong companion Jacqueline Griffith and enjoyed the life of being retired and relaxing. He also enjoyed fishing, hunting, a ‘cold one’ with his family and a good Buffalo Bills game. He was very family orientated and enjoyed talking on the phone with his siblings. How one could only wish to live a life full of joy and love.

James leave to cherish his memories, his two children Theresa Smith, James Smith III and two stepdaughters Lisa Brown and Jovana Jimenez. Fourteen grandchildren Desiree, Anastasia, James, Travis, Christina, Johnathon, Tamika, Tiana, Bianca, Toni, Jasmen, Jacqueline, Spencer, Vincent, Sayyiah, Zach, and Anselmo. One great grandchild Christopher and nine siblings Deborah Smith, Donna Johnson, Jerond Smith, Daria Smith, Joel Smith, Jonathan Smith, Terryl Smith (Tracey) and Kimley Smith, one Uncle Leon Turner, along with a host of nieces, nephews, greats and great greats, cousins, close relatives, and special friends.

Relatives may call on Tuesday, July 2, 2024, from 11 AM- 1 PM at the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St. Medina, NY 14103, where a funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM with the Rev. Lambert Duncan officiating. Burial will be in the Boxwood Cemetery, Medina, NY.

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

We will miss you “Jimbo”. You will always be in our hearts…

MT. PLEASANT – Daniel Edward Gleason, 69 of Mt. Pleasant, NC, went to be with our Lord in the early morning of November 12, 2023, after a long illness.

Born on July 13, 1954, in Baltimore, Maryland to Thomas J Gleason, Jr and Veleta (Transue) Gleason, he leaves behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, unwavering devotion to his Lord and immense love for his family.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Laurie, of Mt. Pleasant, NC, and his daughters, Kimberly Gleason of Tonawanda, NY and Danielle (Timothy) Labinski of Albemarle, NC, along with special family friend Beth (Kevin) Mitchell and her 3 children: Bailee, Brian and William of Lockport, NY.

He is also survived by sisters Sue (Dan) Golding of Florida and Veleta (Rick) Muhs of New York and brother Ralph Gleason of New York. He is predeceased by his parents, Thomas and Veleta, along with brothers Thomas Gleason III and Russell Gleason.

Daniel was Owner of Dan’s Drafting & Designs, active on County & Village Planning boards while he lived in Albion, NY. He was into building along with repairing computers. He was a member of the Albion Fire Department (where he wore many hats). Not one to stay still after retiring to North Carolina, he answered his calling and went to seminary.

Daniel you will be deeply missed but your legacy will forever be a guiding light in our lives. May you rest in eternal peace.

A memorial service was held 11 a.m. Tuesday November 14, at Mount Herman Lutheran Church in Concord, N.C. in lieu of flowers, the family asked for donations to either Mount Herman Lutheran Church, 3600 Highway 601 S, Concord, NC 28025 or Tucker House (Hospice & Palliative Care of Cabarrus County), 5003 Hospice Lane, Kannapolis, NC 28081.

A celebration of life will be held in Albion, New York on July 13, 2024, in Bullard Park, 1 to 4 p.m.

BROCKPORT – At 99 years of age, Fern L. (Burch) Corrieri passed away at Unity Hospital on June 4, 2024.  She was born January 30, 1925, in Lyndonville, NY.  She was the daughter of Bruce and Margaret (Sholes) Burch.  She was a graduate of L.A. Webber High School in 1942. She married James C. Corrieri on September 29, 1945, at St. John’s Roman Catholic Church in Lockport, NY.  In 1962, Fern and her husband Jim opened Norge Village Laundry and Dry Cleaning.  In 1986, she retired from Harrison Radiator in Lockport.  She loved flowers and gardening, bird watching, trips with her husband to Las Vegas and flower shows in Toronto with her daughter Gina.

She is survived by her daughter Gina (Charles) Martillotta, and close friends Antoinette Gugliuzzo and family.  She was a member of Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in Brockport.  Fern was kind, loving and devoted to her family.  She will be deeply missed.

Fern requested no calling hours.  Graveside services will be held privately.  Those wishing may contribute to Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in Brockport.

Arrangements entrusted to Fowler Funeral Home Inc.

MEDINA – Margaret A. Shultz, age 66, went to be with her Lord, June 24, 2024, at Buffalo General Hospital. Margaret was born February 5, 1958, in Medina, NY, a daughter of the late John and Cynthia (Etzold) Reigle. Margaret was a nurse for many years, always caring for others. She loved watching and feeding the birds in her yard. She had a great sense of humor and enjoyed gardening, reading, sewing, camping, fishing and spending time with her family. She was an avid Buffalo Bills fan. She was predeceased by her brothers Richard Reigle, Lester Reigle, Charles Reigle; sisters Marilyn Duffield, Joyce Reeson and Eileen Reigle.

She is survived by her loving husband of 23 years, James; children Tracy (James) Pohl, Sherman (Jessica Verdesia) Smith, Tamara (Brandon Kotler) Roberts, Jessica (William Waild) Smith, stepdaughters Victoria Mortenson and Annette (Eric) Tamul; brother Gordon (Margaret) Reigle; sisters Patricia (Gerald) Myers and Alta Hillman. Several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins.

There will be Celebration of Margaret’s life at the East Shelby Community Bible Church 5278 E. Shelby Rd. Medina, NY 14103 on Saturday July 6, at 10:00am.

Memorials may be made to the charity of your choice.

Margaret’s arrangements have been entrusted to Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home of Albion.

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

ALBION – Daniel Scott Ryan, age 39, of Albion NY, entered into rest on Sunday, June 23rd, 2024.  Born October 1st, 1984, in Brockport, Dan is the son of Scott and Eileen (Thompson) Ryan and grandson of the late Russell Ryan & Harold Thompson.

Dan graduated from Albion High School in 2002. Dan was an avid drummer and loved playing in bands as well as in his parents’ home.  He enjoyed fishing, camping and spending time with his family.

Surviving Dan are his children: Nadalee and Tyler Ryan, parents: Scott and Eileen (Thompson) Ryan, siblings: James & Corinne Ryan, Robert & Victoria Ryan and Pamela Ryan Kennedy, nieces & nephews: Loreli, Evalyn & Charlotte Ryan, Aubrey & Ayden Kennedy, Robert Jayce“RJ” Ryan, godson: Evan May, grandparents: Mary (Ricotta) Ryan, Eleanor (Steier) Thompson, Barb (Brownell) Thompson. He is also survived by several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Family and Friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life ceremony at Ridgeway Volunteer Fire Company, 11392 Ridge Road, Medina, NY 14103 on Saturday June 29th at 2pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the family to help with expenses are welcomed.

Daniel’s arrangements have been entrusted to Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home of Albion.

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

AUBURN – RoseMarie Lorraine Helmbold Smith, wife of the late Robert J. Smith, passed peacefully on June 23, 2024 at age 90. Daughter of the late Clara and Louis Helmbold, she was a lifelong resident of Kendall, NY before moving to Westminster Manor senior living facility in Auburn, NY.

She is survived by Ronald (Claudia) Smith, Steven (Kathleen) Smith, Gary (Terri Fanton) Smith and Susan (Jeffrey) Velte as well as several grandchildren, great grandchildren and nephews.

RoseMarie worked for many years as secretary to the elementary principal at Kendall Central Schools. She was a lifelong member of the Kendall United Methodist Church, enjoyed camping with her husband RJ and spending time with her family.

The family would like to express their appreciation to the staff of Westminster Manor for their kindness and loving care. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Westminster Manor (81 South St., Auburn, NY 13021) or the Kendall United Methodist Church.

The family will celebrate a private burial.

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

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

KENDALL – Margaret B. “Marg” Skellen, age 93, passed away June 22, 2024 after a brief illness surrounded by her loving family. She was born November 11, 1930 in Kendall to the late Menzo and Mae Butler and was a lifelong resident of the area.

She married her high school sweetheart, William Skellen in 1949 and they farmed together for the next 63 years while raising their five children. Margaret loved sewing, garage sales, baking, crafts, gardening and playing cards with her family.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband William in 2013, siblings Harry Butler and Gloria Prest.

Margaret is survived by her children, Mary (Ray) Lord of FL, Marcia Dunn of Albion, Bill (Libby Hall) Skellen of Holley, Tina Skellen of Kent, Betty (Eric) Weatherbee of Clarendon; grandchildren, Amber (Abe Gonzales) Dunn of Albion, Tracy Lord & Laura (Jonathan) Lord-Blackwell of FL, Megan Weatherbee of Holley, Travis Weatherbee of Auburn, three great grandchildren, Dylan, Cody and Charlie, two step grandchildren, Mike & Jen; three step great grandchildren, Cameron, Mackenzie, & Harrison.

There will be no calling hours as per Margaret’s wishes. A graveside service for both Will and Marg will be held in Greenwood Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Memorial contributions in Margaret’s name may be made to Mercy Flight.

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

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