Dell C. Stork
Dell C. Stork, of Medina, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, January 17, 2023 with his devoted son, Ron and daughter in-law, Cherie at his side.
Born on leap year, February 29, 1932 in Medina, Dell was a son of the late George Harold and Florence (Hull) Stork. He graduated from Medina High School in the class of 1951. Shortly after, he joined the United States Marine Corps, serving from 1951-1954. Dell played varsity football during school and later was Co-Captain of the Medina MAC semi-pro football team. Returning home from service, he was employed at Bell Aircraft in Buffalo where he helped manufacture Rascal Missiles.
In 1959 Bell offered to transfer him to a position in Texas and, at the same time, he was offered a position as a Fireman for the Village of Medina Fire Department. He chose the latter of the two, and the rest is history, the beginning of a long and storied career in firefighting. He married the former Ellinor A. Hewitt on December 20, 1969. Dell was promoted to Fire Chief also in 1969, an office he held until his retirement in 1989. He was also a proud and active member of the Ridgeway Volunteer Fire Co. for 30 years. Dell was Past-Commander of Butts-Clark Post #204, American Legion, where he also served as a Delegate for the 8th District of the American Legion. He volunteered for many years on the Honor Guard, according military honors at funerals for local veterans. Dell served as Scout Master of Boy Scout Troop #32 in Medina. He enjoyed playing euchre, was an avid hunter and fisherman and was a wildlife enthusiast.
Above all, Dell was a loving husband and devoted father. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Ellinor A. Stork on January 13, 1999; brother, Joseph (Audrey) Stork; and sister, Octavia (Louis) Noga.
Left to cherish his memory are his only son, Ronald (Cherie) Stork of Medina; a brother in-law, Wayne Hewitt; and several cousins, nieces, nephews and many dear friends.
Always one to avoid the spotlight, Dell was a humble man to say the least. Possessing a calm and steady demeanor, he was a true leader who was willing to share sage advice or extend a helping hand when needed. His roots ran deep in Medina, a community he loved. Along with earning his spot in Heaven, Dell certainly earned his spot in the pages of Medina’s history.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, Jan. 27 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. His funeral service will be held on Saturday, Jan. 28 at 11 a.m. at the First Baptist Church, 203 W. Center St., Medina. Military honors will be accorded at the church. Immediately following the funeral, family and friends are invited to a luncheon at the Ridgeway Vol. Fire Hall, 11392 Ridge Rd., Medina. Interment will be privately held in Boxwood Cemetery at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Knights-Kaderli Memorial Fund, PO Box 684, Medina, NY 14103 or to Supportive Care of Orleans at www.supportivecareorleans.org. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.
