JANUARY - JUNE
Previous Death Notices
Donald H. Perry,
May 7, 2011, of Grand Island, NY, beloved husband of Toni (nee Caffarelli) Perry; dearest father of Donald H. Perry III and Scott (Janet) Perry; cherished Pa of Samantha Rose Perry; loving son of Donald and Virginia (nee Will) Perry; dear brother of Richard (Ida) Perry. He is also survived by his loving nieces and nephews. Mr. Perry was a member of the Steamfitters Local # 395 and the former Superintendent of Buildings and Grounds for the Grand Island Central School District. The family will be present on Tuesday, May 10 from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at the GRECO FUNERAL HOME, 2909 Elmwood Ave. in Kenmore. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, May 11 at 10:00 AM at St. Stephen R.C. Church, 2100 Baseline Road on Grand Island. Friends invited. All are asked to assemble at the church. A private interment will be held on Thursday at Mt. Calvary. Share your condolences at www.GRECOfuneral.com.
Timothy Edward Sheehan , 76, an award-winning television advertising director, died April 25, 2011. See Death Notice
Arthur J. Caggiano, April 30, 2011, 90, beloved husband of Doris M. (nee Penaro) Caggiano; dear father of Keith Caggiano and Dennis Caggiano; brother of the late Josephine D'Anna, late Robert Caggiano, late Phyllis Sawicki, late Carmen Caggiano, late Louis Caggiano, late Ralph Caggiano and the late Nick Caggiano; also survived by many nieces and nephews. The family will be present to receive friends Wednesday, May 4 from 3-8 PM at the SPALLINO-AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, 1300 Pine Ave., Niagara Falls, NY where prayers will be said Thursday, May 5 at 9:15 AM and at Holy Family of Jesus, Mary & Joseph Parish at St. Joseph Church at 10:00 AM. Friends invited. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Military Order of the Purple Heart or Niagara University Scholarship Fund for Athletics and Nursing. Share your condolences at www.AMIGONE.com.
Rev. Edwin L.”Ted” Pfohl Jr.
Pastor Ted Pfohl went to be with his Lord on Sunday, May 1, 2011, due to sudden illness. Beloved son of Marcia (nee Cota) Pfohl and the late Edwin L. Pfohl, Sr.; devoted brother of Margaret Sano, Rev. Jeffrey (Lori) Pfohl, Marcia Pfohl, Jun Sano and the late Sgt. Roswell Pfohl III; cherished uncle of Kelsey (Trea) Garza, Lindsey and Leah Pfohl and Roswell Sano; dear nephew of Francis (Maryellen) Pfohl, Margaret (Norman) Bauman and Jane (John) August; dearest cousin of Norman (Sue) Bauman Jr., Dennis Bauman, Laurie Kalman, Amy (Grant) McKnight, Paul Bauman, Matthew (Anna) Bauman, Francis (Kathy) Pfohl Jr., Kathy (Eddie) Ellisor, Michael (Lora) Pfohl, Shoshanah and Ariel August. Ted was a very special man who is greatly loved by many. Using the Internet Ted touched many lives globally through Christian Witness and Counseling. His humility, humor, giving spirit and continual desire to sow love made him an extraordinary role model to all who knew him. Few words can adequately express this loving and giving man who walked this earth for 48 years. He will be greatly missed and remembered with love, respect and gratitude. Relatives and friends may visit the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northtowns Chapel), 885 Niagara Falls Blvd. near Eggert/Sheridan Dr. on Thursday, May 5 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM where the funeral will be held on Friday morning, May 6 at 10:30 o'clock. Memorials may be made to C.B.N. Relief Fund. Online condolences may be made at www. lombardofuneralhome.com
Memories of Dorothy Bascomb
by Lenore Tetkowski
Dorothy Bascomb passed away about a month before her 98th birthday on April 28. She seemed to be asleep in her chair that afternoon when her daughter, Betty, realized she had so calmly and quietly passed on. ³I knew it would happen, but it was still a shock,² said Betty. Many of us who knew and loved Dorothy feel the same way.
We had just bought the property on Whitehaven Road when Dorothy crossed the street to welcome us. Soon learned that each family had a two-year-old. That was sixty years ago. So our families were neighbors and close friends as the years brought changes. Nursery school carpools, Little League, barbecues, birthday parties, shared holiday meals joined us closer.
Ours was a dependable deep friendship through power outages and far more serious loss.
At each stage of her life, Dorothy was creative and contributed to
the community. After retiring as librarian at the Campus School at Buffalo
State College, Dorothy became the first director of the Grand Island Golden Age Center.
About twenty years ago, Betty convinced Dorothy to move in with her
family in Dansville. A cozy apartment was made there, and Dorothy joined a
creative writing group. Some of her memoirs of her childhood with a medical doctor father who made home visits in a horse and buggy have been published.
Always generous, she continued to create original greeting cards for her many friends, sometimes incorporating tiny dried flowers.
The lilac bush in front of my house is about to bloom again, an annual gift from Dorothy¹s husband, Larry, to my husband a great many years ago.
The Bascomb family plans a graveside memorial service to be held in Salamanca in early June.
Major Bill F. Jacobs, Jr., USAF Retired, age 68 of San Antonio, Texas passed away on April 23, 2011. He was born to William Francis and Leota Moeller Jacobs on August 29, 1942 in Buffalo, NY and grew up on Grand Island, NY. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Marion Elizabeth Jacobs; his three children Trevor Jacobs, Gary Jacobs, and Elizabeth Ann Jacobs; his daughter-in-law and granddaughter by his son Gary, Julie Chantal Jacobs and Gwendolyn Rose Jacobs; and his two sisters Gail Howe and Nanette Haller and their husbands and children. He received a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering from the University of New York at Buffalo and a Master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of Northern Colorado. He was a Vietnam War veteran and served 20 years in the USAF. He worked for more than 35 years in industrial, civil, and environmental engineering. Prior to joining the USAF, he started his career at Chevrolet-Tonawanda. Following his military retirement, he worked for Modern Technologies Corporation and as an Associate at Booz Allen Hamilton. He was very physically active and at different times enjoyed baseball, basketball, bowling, football, golf, softball and tennis. His hobbies included gardening, where he grew grapefruit trees from seeds, spending time outdoors photographing wildlife and playing Scrabble. He was an avid fan of the San Antonio Spurs, Dallas Cowboys and Buffalo Bills. He passed away at his home after a three-year battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s disease). Graveside services and interment will be held at 9 a.m. on May 2, 2011 at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, with full military honors. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the ALS Association, South Texas Chapter.
Eleanor Zernickel ,
Monday, April 25, 2011, wife of Karl Zernickel, Sr.; mother of Sheila (Craig) Davis, Karl (Lisa) Jr., Lilli Ann (Patrick McCauley) Zernickel; sister of Jeannie (Marc) LaBarre, the late Josephine Frost; also surviving are six grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Friends may call Wednesday from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd, Grand Island. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday at 10 AM from St. Stephen Roman Catholic Church, Grand Island, New York 14072-2059. Memorials may be made to Roswell Park Cancer Institute.
Georgena E. (nee Pitts) Shores ,
of Grand Island, entered into rest, April 25, 2011. Beloved wife of Victor Shores; devoted mother of Lisa (Alan) Carey, Gena Heusinger, Dona (Charles) Trautwein and Jennifer (Ed) Fairbairn; fond step-mother of Victor Jr. (Pat), Christopher (Kimberly) and Vincent (Jamie) Shores; cherished grandmother of 21 grandchildren and one great-grandchild; loving daughter of the late Elmer and Magdeline (nee Popp) Pitts; dear sister of the late Elmer and Leroy Pitts; also survived by several nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends may visit the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northtowns Chapel), 885 Niagara Falls Blvd. near Eggert/Sheridan Dr. on Wednesday, April 27 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM. Funeral service will be held at First Trinity Lutheran Church, 1570 Niagara Falls Blvd., Tonawanda on Thursday morning at 10 o'clock (Please assemble at church). Interment Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Online condolences may be made at www. lombardofuneralhome.com
Robert E. Kindred, April 25, 2011, son of the late Edward and Ruth Kindred; loving brother of Dale C. (late Betty) Kindred; fond uncle of many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. Friends received on Wednesday from 4-8 PM and on Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at the NIGHTENGALE FUNERAL HOME, 1884 South Park Ave (near Tifft), where services will be held on Friday at 10:30 AM. Friends invited. Bob was a longtime member of West Seneca Lodge No. 1111 F&AM, under whose auspices a service will be held on Thursday at 7:30 PM, 32nd Degree Mason Valley of Buffalo, Ismailia Shrine. Flowers gratefully declined. If desired, contributions may be made to Ismailia Shrine Children's Travel Fund, c/o 1600 Southwestern Blvd, West Seneca 14224.
Alice E. (Roy) Symonds, April 14, 2011. Wife of the late John P. Symonds Sr.; loving mother of Robert (Nancy), Roland (Mary) Powers, Diane (Kenneth) Biggie, Richard (Sandy), Roy (Judy) Powers, Kelly O'Keefe, Linda (Mike) Lichtenthal, Diane (David) Holm, Mary (Norman) Christiansen, Dana (Denise) Symonds, Eleanor (Charles) Tyler and the late Timothy (Deborah) O'Keefe; survived by 19 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild; sister of the late Robert Roy, Harold Rogers and John Carroll. Friends may call Monday 4-8 PM at the DENGLER, ROBERTS, PERNA FUNERAL HOME, 3000 Delaware Ave., Kenmore. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered Tuesday, 9:30 AM at St. Christopher's Church. Memorials to SPCA serving Erie County. www.denglerrobertspernafuneral.com
Bret M. Lynch, April 22, 2011, beloved husband of Tracey (nee Ross) Lynch; loving son of Marice B. Lynch and Earl M. (Ruth) Lynch; dearest brother of Kelle (Donn) McMahon and Jessica (Anthony) Gray; devoted grandson of Otha (Nana) Flood and Lydia Lynch; brother-in-law of Desiree Ross Paige; also survived by 10 nieces and nephews. Friends may call on Wednesday, April 27 from 2-4 PM, and the family will be present 6-8 PM and on Thursday, April 28 from 11:00 AM to Noon at the (Delaware Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 1132 Delaware Ave. (near West Ferry) where Funeral Services will follow at Noon. Flowers are gratefully declined. If desired, memorials may be made to Autism Speaks http://events.autismspeaks.org/tributes/bretlynch.
Buffalo News
November 3, 1964 - April 22, 2011
Bret M. Lynch, a corrections officer and a leader in the Grand Island Fire Company, died last Friday in Millard Fillmore Hospital. He was 46.
A Buffalo native, Mr. Lynch graduated from Grand Island High School, where he played football and was a member of the Student Council and debate teams. He studied political science at Canisius College.
For 23 years, Mr. Lynch was employed as a state corrections officer.
A certified emergency medical technician, he served as vice president and president of Grand Island Volunteer Fire Company, where he was a member for 27 years.
He also was a Democratic Party committeeman on Grand Island and was active in youth organizations and college preparatory programs.
Survivors include his wife, the former Tracey Ross; his parents, Marice B. and Earl M.; two sisters, Kelle McMahon and Jessica Gray; and grandparents Otha Flood and Lydia Lynch.
Services were Thursday (April 28, 2011).
Anthony LaChiusa, of Grand Island, entered into rest, April 18, 2011. Beloved husband of the late Mary (nee Ferrara) LaChiusa; devoted father of Charles A. (Nancy) LaChiusa and Eleanor (James) McCarthy; cherished grandfather of Nicole (David) Stewart, Elise (Daniel) McVeigh and James (Diane) McCarthy; fond great-grandfather of seven great-grandchildren; loving son of the late Charles and Eleanora LaChiusa; pre-deceased by two brothers and one sister; survived by relatives and friends. No prior visitation. Private service. Entombment Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Arrangements by the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME. Online condolences may be made at www.lombardo funeralhome.com
Alice Lorraine Harper, 84, of Ransomville, died Monday, April 11, 2011 in Buffalo General Hospital.
Alice was born May 24, 1926 in Petersburg, VA, the daughter of the late Andrew Leigh and Alice Lorraine (McFadden) Parham. She married Owsley D. Harper on April 6, 1979 and moved to Ransomville from Grand Island in 1969. Owsley predeceased her in 1979. Alice enjoyed gardening and spending time with her grandchildren.
She is survived by her children, Leigh Harper, Teresa Robelo and Shelley Andrews; her grandchildren, Laura and Kathryn Harper, Benjamin, David and Katia Robelo, Ian and Dillon Andrews. She was predeceased by a son, Steven G. Harper.
Friends may call at HARDISON FUNERAL HOME, 3648 Ransomville Road, Ransomville on Wednesday, April 13 from 5-8 PM. Services and interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Ransomville Vol. Fire Co. Ambulance Fund, PO Box 239, Ransomville, NY 14131.
Rosalyn “Roz” Butler, of Grand Island, NY, died on Wednesday, February 16, 2011 in Kenmore Mercy Hospital. She was 86. She was born in Piercefield, NY, the daughter of the late Clinton and Helen (McSween) Webber. The family moved to Niagara Falls in 1933, where she resided until moving to Grand Island with her late husband, Henry J. Butler.
Rosalyn and her late husband were both graduates of the former LaSalle Jr./Sr. High School. They had enjoyed attending all of their class reunions, especially the classes of the World War II years, celebrating the anniversary of Pearl Harbor each year. Rosalyn worked at Bell Aircraft during the WW II years as an assembler on the production line, later working at the former International Paper Company in the Finishing Room until 1958. She was a life time member of the DAV Auxiliary.
She was an active member of the Bishop Duffy High School Mother's Club, St. John de LaSalle R.C. Church, its Rosary/Altar Society and participated in the Martha's organization since its inception. Rosalyn was a Communicant of St. Stephen's Church, Grand Island. She served as a volunteer on the church building fund mailings and for the annual Catholic Charities Appeal. Numerous charitable organizations benefited from her generosity.
Survivors include her son, Patrick (Patricia) Butler of Williamsville; her grandson, Christian (Nicole) Butler of Tonawanda, NY; step-granddaughters, Rebecca (Donny) Ferenz of Connecticut, Carolyn Pokorski of Cheektowaga; her great-grandchildren, Isabelle Butler and Eden Schwanke will sorely miss her along with her numerous nieces and nephews, especially niece, Lisa Smith of Niagara Falls. She is also survived by her siblings, Roland Webber, Harley Webber, Colyn Webber and Neila Smith. In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by her sister, Jocyline Woodcock.
Rosalyn valued all her family and friends through the many years of her life. Her sense of humor, generosity, good will and positive attitude were the gifts she gave the world. She will brighten heaven with her effervescent personality.
There will be no prior visitation. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday at 10 AM in St. John de LaSalle RC Church, 8477 Buffalo Avenue, Niagara Falls. The interment will be private in Holy Name Cemetery, Tupper Lake, NY. If desired, memorials may be made to Buffalo Hospice, 225 Como Park Blvd., PO Box 590, Buffalo, NY 14240; St. John’s Fund, 8469 Buffalo Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY 14304, or St. Stephen's Fund, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island, NY. Arrangements by LANE FUNERAL HOME, INC.
Geraldine A. Schutt, April 13, 2011, formerly of Grand Island; wife of the late Raymond Schutt; sister of Violet (late Charles) Lawrence, Edward (Marcia) Schutt, Carlton (Lynn) Schutt and the late Ronald Schutt, Edna Mae (late Joseph) Delaney and Clarence Schutt; daughter of the late Clarence and Alvina Schutt; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Wednesday, April 20 from 4-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral services will be held Thursday, April 21 at 10 AM at Trinity United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.
Edward G. Weiser Jr.,
April 9, 2011, of Grand Island, husband of 62 years of Mildred A. Weiser; father of Milanne (Tom) Buchholz, Melisse and Edward G. (Bonnie) Weiser III; grandfather of Tim (Anna Nummelin) Buchholz, Kimberly (Nick) Pressley, Edward G. IV and Ashley Weiser; also survived by four great- grandchildren; son of the late Catherine and Edward G. Weiser, Sr.; brother of the late Hazel Nailor. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Saturday, April 16 at 12 Noon at St. Stephen's Church, Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Heritage Christian Services, 349 West Commercial St., East Rochester, NY 14445. Mr. Weiser was a WW II veteran who served in the Pacific. He worked at Bell Aerospace for 30 years. He was a 3rd Degree Knight of Columbus and enjoyed family, friends, gardening, biking, skiing, wine making, golfing, fishing and had a terrific sense of humor.
Janice M. Ennis, April 9, 2011, of Grand Island, wife of Harry W. Ennis; mother of Greg Ennis, Joanne (Ken) Witek, Dawn (Bob) Janes, Joe (Roz) Vasi, Jasen Vasi and Melissa (Jim) Bishop; also survived by 17 grandchildren and one great-grandson; sister of Joanne Buell and the late Stephen Powroznik. Memorial Services will be held Tuesday, April 12 at 4 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island.
Joseph Raymond Zoeckler,
died in Albuquerque, New Mexico (formerly of Grand Island, NY) on Saturday March 26th, 2011, 2 days before his 54th birthday. He is survived by his son Leo Zucker Zoeckler, his mother Catherine Brogan Zoeckler, his brothers Bob, Michael and John Zoeckler, his sister Barbara Gregoire, and many loving friends including his former wife Joan Zucker, his sister-in-law Lisa Crowe, Anthony Templeton and Roger and Sandy Deale.Joe was born in Niagara Falls, N.Y, the son of Catherine and Donald Zoeckler. He grew up in Grand Island, New York and graduated from Grand Island High School. He attended the State University of New York at Buffalo and received his BA in Political Science while also pursuing his violin studies. Soon after graduating, he traveled to Venezuela to perform as a violinist in the Filarmonica de Caracas and later as Associate Concertmaster of the Filarmonica de Merida. Joe played violin in many other orchestras and festivals throughout the United States, including the Jacksonville Symphony, the Orchestra of Santa Fe, and as Concertmaster of the Santa Fe Desert Chorale. He moved to New Mexico in 1983, and helped establish the Santa Fe Symphony. He joined the New Mexico Symphony Orchestra in 1983 and was Assistant Concertmaster of the NMSO from 1989 until his death. During his NMSO tenure Joe charmed many second and third graders while leading NMSO String Quintet performances at dozens of Albuquerque elementary schools. Joe was also an extremely talented private violin teacher. Sadly, health problems prevented him from the active pursuit of his musical passion during the last few years of his life. Joe loved to travel. He especially enjoyed the out-of-doors, whether skiing, swimming or gardening. An avid hiker and backpacker, he and Joan tackled trails from the Andes to the Himalayas and from China to Belize, in addition to many mountain ranges in the U.S. He also enjoyed hiking and camping trips with his siblings and parents. Joe adored children and was a loving and playful father and uncle. His family and friends will always remember him as a talented, cheerful and above all kind man, with a marvelous sense of humor and a ready smile. He will be sorely missed.
Robert G. Cortright,
87, of East Aurora (formerly of Grand Island, NY) passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 5, 2011 in Mercy Hospital surrounded by his loving family. Born September 12, 1923 in Buffalo, he was the son of the late Robert H. and Louise (Wheeler) Cortright. Robert served his country during WWII in the Army Air Force; the (USAAF) were the military aviation arm of the United States of America during and immediately after World War II. Robert worked as a Millwright for Western Electric in Tonawanda for over 32 years until his retirement. After he retired, Robert became a self-taught Locksmith to help pass the days of retirement. Robert loved to ride bicycles, especially with his Brother Richard who had the great honor to ride for the U.S. Olympic team. He was a gifted builder and handyman and was always available to assist his family with any task, none too big. Robert also loved to hunt and fish. Most of all he loved to make people laugh with his jokes and witty sense of humor. Robert was a member of the VFW Post 416 in Amherst, NRA and CWA. Besides his parents Robert is predeceased by his Son Robert H. Cortright and his Brother Richard Cortright. Survivors include his loving wife of 37 years Joanne (Brown) Cortright whom he married June 8, 1974; one Daughter Christy L. (Richard) Dybalski; three grandchildren Denise Phelph, Deborah Steel and Deanna Lightcap and two great-grandchildren Dalen and Destiny. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews. As per Robert's wishes there will be no services. Contributions can be made in Robert's memory to Hospice of Buffalo or to a charity of one's choice. Arrangements have been entrusted to KENNETH HOWE FUNERAL HOME, East Aurora. Online condolences are available www.howefuneralhome.com.
Katherina Elizabeth Dudley Feyerabend , November 17, 1934 to April 4, 2011; Age 76; of Grand Island; loved by: her treasured husband Gerald Feyerabend (deceased); her Children and Step-children John Dudley, Laurie Dudley (deceased), Paul (Lana) Dudley, Michael (Lisa) Dudley, Judy (Ron) Fachko, Janet Reyes; her grandchildren Christine, Jonathon, Adrienne, Nicholas, Michael, Kara, Eric, Amber, Alyssa, Amanda, Carla, and her Great-grandchildren; Gianni and Arabella. Family will be present Saturday, April 9 from 1-2 PM followed by memorial service at 2:00 PM at Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Family members request that in lieu of flowers, donations be made, in her name, to the American Cancer Society , Hospice Buffalo or the Muscular Dystrophy Assn.
Martha "Dolly" Dilliot ,
April 3, 2011, of Grand Island; wife of the late Arnold Dilliot; mother of Tammy (Mark) DeBole and Kevin (Lisa) Dilliot; grandmother of Cori and Jason Sexton, Joshua DeBole, Amanda, Heather and Rebecca Dilliot; sister of Skip (Linda) Uonites, Floydette (Bob) Gannon and Paula Jean Tickner; also survived by many adored nieces and nephews. Friends may call Wednesday, April 6 from 10 AM - 1 PM followed by memorial services Wednesday at 1 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Memorials may be made to the Grand Island Fire Co.
Virginia J. Hanley, 74, of Delevan, NY, died Tuesday, March 29, 2011 at the Pines Health Care Center in Machias, NY, former Grand Island, NY resident. Born in Niagara Falls, NY on March 20, 1937, she was a daughter of Jeanette (Wodo) and Theodore Niemiec. Virginia was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Theodore Niemiec, Jr. Virginia is survived by six children, Sharon Hanley of Hagerstown, MD, Darlene (Joe) Towsley of Kansas City, MO, James Hanley of Arcade, NY, Laurie (George) Sasse of Virginia Beach, VA, Thomas Hanley of Boston, NY and Susanne Hanley of Bliss, NY; 13 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Virginia will be greatly missed by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and her many friends. She was a homemaker, mother and a long-time employee at Value Home Center in Hamburg, NY. Virginia also enjoyed working at the Red Barrel Cider Mill in Boston, NY. There will be no memorial services as requested by Virginia. Donations to the Pines Health Care Center in Virginia's name would be gladly accepted and appreciated.
Edna P. (nee Venator) Hardison, March 31, 2011. Beloved wife of the late Edward W. Hardison; devoted mother of Katherine (Dennis) Jedd, Patricia (Clarence "Butch") Carrick, Joan (Douglas) Gregory, Michael (Patricia) Hardison, late Edward R. and the late Donald Hardison; loving grandmother of many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; step-sister of Ramona (Robert) Burdick and Patricia Venator. Visitation at the BUSZKA FUNERAL HOME INC., 2005 Clinton St., (corner S. Ogden) Sunday, April 3 from 4-7 PM at which time Funeral Services will be held. Pastor George Walsh officiating.
Thomas Robert McCauley, 48, of Spring, TX passed away on March 22, 2011 in Spring, TX. Tom was born on March 5, 1963 in the Town of Tonawanda, New York to Robert Thomas and Rosemary McCauley. He was preceded in death by his dear mother, Rosemary. He is survived by his loving family: father, Robert T. McCauley; sister, Joanne March; brother, Patrick McCauley; and Lilly Zernickel; cousins, Tina March, Donald March and Kayla McCauley. Tom was born and raised in New York and graduated from Grand Island High School in NY. He later moved to the Houston area where he worked in the restaurant industry as a Chef. Some of Tom's special interests in his life were watching sports, landscaping his garden and cooking for family and friends. He was a loving and caring son, brother and friend who will be dearly missed. The family will receive friends at Conroe Funeral Directors on Friday March 25, 2011 from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. At 5 p.m. a special observance will be conducted by The Rev. Gerald Manchester honoring Tom's life.
Kevin Patrick Dobson Sr.,
NY State Trooper March 26, 2011, age 43, of Grand Island, NY. Beloved son of Richard E. and the late Donna J. (nee Fijas) Dobson Sr.; loving life partner of Bridgett M. Hastings; cherished father of Kevin Patrick Jr., Jamie Kathleen, Brooke Lauren Dobson and step-son Andrew Hastings; caring brother of Richard E. (Melissa) Dobson Jr.; also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins and dear friends. The family will be present on Wednesday and Thursday, March 31 from 4-8 PM at the (Amherst Chapel), AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME INC., 5200 Sheridan Drive, (corner of Hopkins Road). Funeral Services will be held on Friday, April 1 from the Eastern Hills Wesleyan Church, 8445 Greiner Road, Williamsville at 11 AM. Friends invited. Please assemble at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the New York State Troopers PBA, Signal 30 Fund, 120 State Street, Albany, NY 12207. Share your condolences at www.AMIGONE.com.
Betty A. (nee Watters) Martin,
March 26, 2011. Beloved wife of Howard L. Martin for 63 years and the late William B. Stewart; devoted mother of James E. (Mary Ellen) Stewart, Kathleen A. (William) Gray, Howard R. (Charlene) Martin, Virgil S. (Linda) Martin and Gloria A. (George) Bloom; loving grandmother of 13 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren; dear sister of the late Jane Kuhnel and Mary Watters; also survived by nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends at the C. MERTZ AND SON FUNERAL HOME, INC., 911 Englewood Ave., for memorial visitations Tuesday, March 29 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM. All are invited to attend a Memorial Mass at St. John the Baptist Church (Englewood Ave.) Wednesday, March 30 at 9:30 AM. Memorials in her memory to Hospice Foundation, Inc. of WNY.
Adam P. Hans,
March 26, 2011, of Grand Island; loving husband of 59 years of Virginia Hans; devoted father of Richard (Susan) Hans, Diane (Charles) Beam, Karen (Peter) Ernst and James Hans; proud grandfather of Michael, Kimberly, Anthony, Nicholas, Christopher and Sarah; great-grandfather of Alexis, Madeline, Isabella and Emma; brother of Evelyn (late Joseph) May. Friends may call Monday, March 28 from 2-7 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday, March 29 at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church.
Stuart Z. Becker,
March 25, 2011, husband of Agnes Stine Becker; father of Michelle (Etay) Eitan of Israel and Lisa (Jay) Wallens; brother of Lynda (John) Cerami; grandfather of Shia, Maysh, Baruch Dovid and Rochel Eitan, Nathan and Rayna Wallens; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Stuart was a longtime member of the Buffalo Launch Club and the Amigos of Buffalo. Funeral Services will be held Sunday, March 27 at 11 AM at MESNEKOFF FUNERAL HOME, 8630 Transit Rd., East Amherst, (639-8890). In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo Inc. A period of mourning will be observed at the family's residence on Grand Island Sunday-Thursday evening. For on-line tributes, visit www.mesnekoff.com.
Thomas P. Collins, 19, of Grand Island, unexpectedly March 24, 2011. Beloved son of Darlene L. (nee Socko) (Donald) Hoover of Grand Island and Thomas R. Collins III of Niagara Falls, beloved brother of Delene (Robert) Kendrick of Great Falls, MT and Renee Collins (David) of Brockport, step-brother of Benjamin R. Hoover and Justin D. Hoover, Grandson of James and SueAnn Socko of Grand Island, Thomas R. (Betta) Collins, Jr. of Arizona, and Ralph D. Hoover of Grand Island, Uncle to Cassidy Kendrick, also survived by several Aunts, Uncles, Cousins and Friends. Predeceased by Grandmothers Joan Collins and Jean Hoover and Uncle James Socko. Tommy was an amazing bass guitarist, writer and poet. The family will be present to receive friends on Sunday, March 27, 2011 at the Kaiser Funeral Home 1950 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island from 2:00–5:00 p.m., where services will immediately follow at 5:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in Tommy’s name online at musicisart.org or sent to Music is Art, 121 Humboldt Pkwy., Buffalo, NY 14214.
William J. Morrisey Sr., March 2, 2011. Husband of the late Patricia (Boyle); father of William (Kathy) Jr., Michael P., Kevin B., Timothy J., and Maureen (Timothy) Kenney; survived by five grandchildren; brother of Mary (late Dennis) Brinkworth and John Morrissey; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Fridaym March 4 from 4-8 PM at the JOHN E. ROBERTS FUNERAL HOME, (West Chapel), 1357 Hertel Ave., near Colvin, Buffalo. A funeral service was held Saturday, March 5 at 10:00 AM.
Karl P. Offermann, the son of former Erie County Sheriff and Buffalo Bison Baseball owner Frank J. Offermann and Isabel M. Offermann, died in Lakeland, FL on December 20, 2010, following a long battle with Parkinson's disease. He would have turned 80 on St. Patrick's Day. Born in Buffalo, Mr. Offermann graduated from St. Joseph's Collegiate Institute and began his printing career in his family's business, F.J. Offermann Art Works on Broadway. He began his own company, Offermann Press, in the 1960's before moving in 1972 to Lakeland, where he founded Artcraft Printers. His wife of 42 years, the former Elizabeth (Betty) Ekiss, died in 1991. He was also preceded in death by son Karl Jr. and a daughter, Gretchen de Stafano. He is survived by sons, Michael of Sarasota, Kevin (Kelly) of Lakeland, Mark (Robin) of Texas and Erich (Margie) of Lakeland; daughters, Diane Krueger of Oklahoma, Lisa Latham of Lakeland, Kristen (Steve) Schaller of Colorado and Katrin (Willie) Lunsford of Arkansas; sister Jeanne Lawless of Big Flats, NY; brothers Frank Jr. and Paul, both of Buffalo. 26 grand and 25 great-grandchildren also survive.
David John "Peepa" Wozniak,
March 13, 2011, of Grand Island, formerly of Lewiston, loving husband of 43 years to Mary Carol (nee Knapp) Wozniak; devoted father of David Jr. (Renee) of Omaha, NE, Jonathan (Lisa), Jennifer, Michelle and the late Christopher; cherished grandfather of Cody, Bobby and Nicole; also beloved grandfather or "Peepa" to Jonathan and Joshua Wozniak; great-grandfather of Marissa and Mekhi; dear brother of Irene Hummel and Donna Robinson; also survived by many in-laws, nieces and nephews. Served in the Army National Guard from 1969-1973. Played drums in the Kenmore-Tonawanda Symphony Orchestra and sung in the Chopin Singing Society. Former employee of Dresser-Rand Corporation, Ernst Steel of Cheektowaga, Burns Copy Products of Buffalo and M&T Bank. Family will be present Thursday, March 17 from 6-8 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral Service 10 AM Friday, March 18 at Whitehaven Road Baptist Church, Grand Island. Interment in Maple Grove Cemetery.
Michael T. Safee ,
of Ransomville, NY formerly of Grand Island, NN; March 11, 2011; age 50 in Roswell Park Cancer Institute in Buffalo, after an extended illness; husband of Mary Beth (Volpe) Safee; father of Taylor, Anthony J., Kimberly Safee and Terra Launcher; step-father of Andrew and Andrea Hailey; brother of Maria Lewis, Edward Safee and the late John Safee; uncle of James Lewis, Michael and Jacob Safee and Shelby Safee; son of the late Edward J. and Martha (Macris) Safee. Michael was employed by Northeast Battery in Buffalo and was affectionately known by many as Battery Mike. Friends may call at the HARDISON FUNERAL HOMES INC., 3648 Ransomville Rd., Ransomville Monday, March 14 from 4-8 PM. Memorial service will be held Tuesday morning, March 15 at 11:00 AM from the Ransomville Free Methodist Church, 3924 Ransomville Rd., Ransomville. Please visit www.hardisonfuneralhomes.inc for online registry.
Michael was born September 26, 1960 in Buffalo, NY, the son of the late Edward J. and Martha (Macris) Safee. He was raised on Grand Island and was a graduate of Grand Island High School. A Veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, Michael served from 1983 to his honorable discharge in 1985. For most of his life Michael worked in sales. He was employed for a time by Northeast Battery in Buffalo.
Michael was a member of the Ransomville Free Methodist Church. He was an avid motorcyclist and was affectionately known by many as 'Battery Mike". Michael loved animals, especially his dog Emily. On December 25, 2010 he married Mary Beth (Volpe) Safee.
Bobby Floyd Dannels ,
March 7, 2011, of Grand Island, husband of the late Joyce Dannels; father of Bruce (Carla) Dannels, Betsy (Clyde) Payn and Lisa (Albert) Osborn; also survived by his
cherished grandchildren, Chris, Jason, Kelsey, Tamara Deyle (Eric), Brittany McGinley (Conor), Erik, James and Colin; and his dear companion Carolyn Rice; brother of Margaret Wilson, Joann Carbone and Andrew Dannels. Family and friends are invited to visit Sunday, March 20, 3-6 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950
Whitehaven Road, Grand Island. Funeral Services will be held Monday, March 21 at 10:30 AM at St. Timothy Lutheran Church, 1453 Staley Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, donations in Bobby's name may be sent to Lewy Body Dementia Assoc. Inc. Online donation: www lbda.org or Doylestown Hospital Hospice, 595 State St.,
Doylestown, PA 18901.
Nancy M. Sandford, March 12, 2011; of Grand Island, NY; daughter of the late Vernon and Marcella Sandford; sister of the late Theodore and John (survived by wife Eleanor) Sandford; aunt of James, Kenneth (Kari) and Andrew (Kimberly) Sandford and the late Catherine (survived by husband
Harold) Kopp; also survived by great-nieces, great-nephews, many loving friends and her beloved dog Teddy. Friends may call Saturday, March 19 from 3-6 PM followed by
memorial services Saturday at 6:00 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, NY. Memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.
Richard C. Owens, 90, of Troy, MI, formerly a long time Grand Island resident, passed away March 5, 2011. He married the late Carlotta Tompkins in 1942. He served in the Army Air Corps during WWII. Dick and Carlotta moved to Huth Road in 1946. In 1952 they moved to East River Road where they raised their three children. Dick worked at Hooker Chemical/Oxy Petroleum for over 42 years. He retired in 1980 but kept active as an avid golfer and as an antique dealer. In 1986 they moved to Dublin, VA, then in 2007 Dick moved to Troy, MI. Survived by children: Richard T. Owens (late Dinah) of Langhorne Manor, PA; Ruth Owens Lougen (Martin) of Troy, MI; and J. Marcus Owens (Cindy) of Radford, VA. Grandchildren: Martin T. Lougen Jr. MD (Jennifer Leino MD); Greg M. Lougen (Dale Nicole); Damon M. Owens (Stacey); and Emily E. Owens. Great grandchildren: Martin T. R. Lougen; Anastasia Lougen; Jackson Lougen; Gabrielle Lougen and Lola Lougen.
There will be a family memorial service at a later date in Radford, VA.
Rev. Reba J. Edwards,
Went home to be with the Lord, March 7, 2011, of Grand Island. Wife of 62 years of the late Robert F. Edwards; mother of Robert A. (Geri Wilson), Judy A. (William R. Weaver), Mark B. (Carla), David R. (Sandra) Edwards, Janet (Gary) Prange, Shawn P. (Angela) and the late Ralph S. Edwards; grandmother of Aaron, Matthew, Charity, Lucas, Hannah, Rachel, Reba, Joshua and Caiden Edwards, Justin and Brett Weaver, Robert and Adam Prange; great grandmother of Mikhayla and Adriana Edwards; daughter of the late Clarence and Bessie Dillon. Friends may call Friday, March 11 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral Services will be held Saturday, March 12 at 10 AM at the Greater Niagara Falls Church Of God, 2334 Lockport Rd., Sanborn, NY.
Elisabeth Ochs,
March 5, 2011, in Dallas, TX, of Grand Island, the widow of John Ochs Sr. She was born in Belecska, Hungary on December 12, 1914, mother of Elizabeth (late Alex) Szur, John (Sandra) Ochs Jr., Henry (Elisabeth) Ochs and Anne (Horst) Pedde of Dallas, Texas, also survived by seven grandchildren, two great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews in Germany, Mrs. Ochs was a long time member of Whitehaven Road Baptist Church. Friends may call Friday, March 11 from 6-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island where funeral services will be held Saturday at 1 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo or Whitehaven Road Baptist Church.
Mary M. (Daigler) Henshaw,
March 5, 2011, of Grand Island, wife of the late John B. Henshaw; mother of Jacquelyn M. (Michael) Hogan of Clarence and John E. Henshaw of Grand Island; grandmother of Susan (Peter) Morrissey, Lynda (Matthew) Carver and Kelly M. Hogan; great-grandmother of Ryan, Connor and Erin Morrissey, Mary Claire, Matthew and Meghan Carver; sister of Cecilia (late William) Poulsen, Eleanor (late John) Fermoil and the late Vincent Daigler; daughter of the late Edward and Elizabeth Daigler. Friends may call Tuesday, March 8 from 7-9 PM and Wednesday, March 9 from 4-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday, March 10 at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Memorials may be made to St. Christopher's Outreach, 2616 Niagara Falls Blvd., Tonawanda, NY 14150.
Kandace L. (nee Kramer) Carter, March 5, 2011, beloved wife of Harry
N. Carter; dearest sister of Karyn L.(Joseph) Porempski; loving aunt of Tracy (Glenn) Breymeier, Holly (David)
Smyczynski and Adam Carter; dear great-aunt of Rebecca, Jared and Jenna; loving daughter-in-law of Lillian
Carter; sister-in-law of Ben (Nancy) Carter. Friends may call Tuesday, March 8 from 7-9 PM and Wednesday, March 9 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at
the DENGLER, ROBERTS, PERNA FUNERAL HOME, 3000 Delaware Ave., Kenmore where Funeral Services will be held Thursday, March 10 at 10 AM.
Kandace was a member of Kensington American Legion Auxiliary Unit #708 under whose auspices a service will be held
Wednesday at 7 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorials to The Alzheimer’s Association of WNY.
Mary K. (nee Scott) Downs,
February 26, 2011, at age 91, beloved wife of the late George W. Downs; devoted mother of Kathleen (Richard) Dulniak, Linda Downs and George H. Downs; loving grandmother of Danielle (Patrick) Foster and Claudia Downs; great-grandmother of Maggie, Emma, Lauren and Olivia Foster; dear sister of Benjamin (Doris) Scott; aunt of Donald (Marcia) and Douglas (Grace) Scott. The family will be present on Wednesday, March 2 from 4:00-8:00 PM at the (Amherst Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 5200 Sheridan Drive (corner of Hopkins Rd.). A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, March 3 at 10:00 AM from Kenmore Baptist Church, 10 Wardman Rd., Kenmore, NY. Friends invited. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Kenmore Baptist Church or Hospice-Buffalo, Inc. Share condolences at www.AMIGONE.com
Imelda M. "Melly" (Holler) McDonnell, February 26, 2011, of Grand Island; wife of the late Robert C. McDonnell; mother of Christine Stedman, Robert, Patricia (Russell) Colosi, Michael (Kim), Terrence (Sharon), Maureen (Bob) Utz, James (Paula) and Mary McDonnell; also survived by 27 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews and cousins; sister of Sr. Mary Wilma Holler, Blake (late Lillian) Holler, Betty (late Ben) Ford, Doris (late Clark) Murray, Virginia (Albert) Wullen, Kenneth (Judith) Holler and the late Jack (survived by wife Lucille), Eugene (survived by wife Barbara) and Richard (survived by wife Marilyn) Holler; daughter of the late Wilbert and Bertha Holler. Friends may call Monday, February 28 from 4-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday, March 1 at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.
William R. Morrish,
February 21, 2011, of Grand Island. Husband of Ruth Morrish; father of Craig (Jill) Morrish and Nancy (Mark) Miller; grandfather of Benjamin, Owen, Lauren, Ryan and Addison; brother of Nancy (Richard) Sanders and Dorothy (Ralph) Tetro; also survived by nieces and nephews. Friends may call Thursday, February 24 from 4-8 PM at KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral services will be held Friday, February 25 at 9:30 AM at Forest Lawn Cemetery, 1411 Delaware Ave, Buffalo.
Richard E. Hinkle,
February 21, 2011, of Grand Island, husband of Mary G. (DeMarco) Hinkle; father of Richard E. Jr. (Jenny) and Mark J. (Mary E.) Hinkle; stepfather of Robert M. Bennett; grandfather of First Sergeant Richard E. (Chariz) Hinkle, Jennifer (Jeremy) Mixon, Joseph (Dana) Hinkle, Stephen (Jayme) Hinkle, Jason and Ashley Bleistein; also survived by eight great-grandchildren and several nieces, nephews and cousins; former husband of Lucy Hinkle; son of the late Roscoe and Mabel Hinkle; brother of the late Gertrude Eardley. Friends may call Wednesday, February 23 from 4-7 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo or Amherst Community Church, 77 Washington Highway, Amherst, where memorial services will be held Friday at 11 AM.
Donald W. (Digital Don) Wilkinson, February 14, 2011 of Grand Island, N.Y. Beloved Husband of Joan (Peters), Dear Father of Timothy (Isabel), Jennifer (John) Chin, and Rachel Wilkinson. Grandfather of Emma and Matthew Chin, Jenna Wilkinson. Brother of David E. (Texas), and the late Peter Wilkinson. Son of the late Dr. Howard and Emma Wilkinson. Don was a member of the Audio Engineer Society; Antique & Classic Boat Society and an active member of Tea Party. He attained His Coast Guard Captain rating in 2010. Donald was an anatmical donor to SUNY Buffalo. A Memorial Service will be held at The Buffalo Launch Club, Saturday, March 26, 2011 at 10:30 AM.
Edward A. "Eddie" Radecki,
February 19, 2011, of Grand Island, Edward leaves behind his loving wife of 54 years Madonna (Mescall); his daughters who will sorely miss him, Michelle (David) Fix, Kathleen (Paul) Ammermuller and Mary Radecki; his grandchildren Heather and Michael Ammermuller, Caitlin Radecki and Andrew Fix. He leaves behind his last living sibling Stephania (late Stephen) Kiebzak and late siblings Andrew, Stanley (late Helen) and Mildred Radecki, Eugenia (late Donald) Sutz and Josephine (late Chuck) Hull; son of the late Albert and Mary (Guzik) Radecki. Friends may call Monday, February 21 and Tuesday, February 21 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, where funeral services will be held Wednesday, February 23 at 10 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Parkinson's Association of WNY or PAWNY. See http://www.buffalonews.com/city/communities/grand-island/article348321.ece
Thomas E. Hirsche,
of Grand Island, formerly of Bavaria-Thierstein, Germany, entered into rest suddenly, January 19, 2011. Beloved son of Willi and Brunhilde (nee Gebelein) Hirsche; devoted brother of Willi (Manuela) Theeg, Florian and Karin, all of Germany; fond uncle of Anna Lena; special friend and companion to Ann J. Enger; also survived by relatives and many friends. No prior visitation. Private service. Thomas came to America from Bavaria as a teenager and had a great appreciation for nature, language, computers, dogs, boating, keeping an aquarium, planting fruit trees, and his homeland of Germany. Arrangements by the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northtowns Chapel). Online condolences may be made at www.lombardofuneralhome.com
Dolores C. Albertsson,
February 17, 2011, of Grand Island; wife of 42 years of the late Jon G. Albertsson who passed away in April 1998; mother of Candice K., Karolina and Jon G. (Laurie) Albertsson Jr.; grandmother of Amanda N. Albertsson, Christopher and Kristy Pace; great grandmother of Alteriadawn Pace; daughter of the late Moritz and Berta Allgaier. Friends may call Monday, February 21 from 4-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday, February 22 at 10 AM at Stephen's Church (old church). Mrs. Albertsson was raised in Cheektowaga by German immigrant parents. She spent summer months on Grand View Bay in Angola and graduated from Amherst Central High School. She worked closely with her father in the family commercial construction company that built many schools, churches and commercial properties in WNY. She met belated husband Jon, an Icelandic national, by chance on Memorial Day weekend in 1954. They married in July 1955 and moved to East Lansing, MI while her husband complete his Mechanical Engineering degree at Michigan State University. They moved to Akureyri, Iceland in 1957 and returned to the States in October 1962 and settled on Grand Island to raise three children. Dolores was active in PTA and Girl Scouts and enrolled in many art classes. She was an avid golfer and a member of the Niagara Falls Country Club for 28 years. She loved international travel and spoke three languages.
Jane E. (Mollnow) Cook,
81, passed away Thursday morning, February 17 in the comfort of her home after a brief illness. She is survived by her loving husband of 65 years Edmund F. Cook of Sanborn; loving mother of Wade (Michelle) Cook of Lewiston, Randy (late Brenda) Cook of Grand Island, Mark Cook (Shirley Lewis) of North Carolina, late Paul Cook and Bonnie (Jim) Pluff of Sanborn; grandmother of six; great-grandmother of ten. A memorial service will be arranged at a future date at the convenience of the family. Memorials in her name may be made to Niagara Hospice or the March of Dimes.
Rosalyn "Roz" Butler,
of Grand Island, Wednesday February 16, 2011. Wife of the late Henry J. Butler; mother of Patrick Butler (Patricia) of Williamsville; sister of Roland, Harley and Colyn Webber and Neila Smith and the late Jocyline Woodcock; grandmother of Christian Butler (Nicole) of Tonawanda; step grandmother of Rebecca Ferenz (Donny) of Connecticut; Carolyn Pokorski of Cheektowaga; great-grandchildren, Isabelle Butler and Eden Schwanke; aunt of Lisa Smith, Niagara Falls; also survived by several nieces and nephews. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Saturday 10 AM in St. John de LaSalle RC Church, 8469 Buffalo Ave, Niagara Falls. Memorials may be made to Buffalo Hospice, St. John de LaSalle Church or St. Stephen's Fund. The LANE FUNERAL HOME, INC., is handling the funeral arrangements.
Ruth F. Noble,
February 15, 2011, 99, of Grand Island, formerly of North Tonawanda, after a long illness, wife of the late Robert J. Noble Sr.; mother of Robert (Linda) Noble Jr., Albert (Judy) Noble and Candy (late Eugene Jr.) Konczakowski; sister of Betty (Henry) Wheeler and the late Kathryn Grile; also survived by eight grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews. No visitation. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated today, Thursday. February 17 at 1 PM at St. Francis Chapel, 71 Adam St., Tonawanda. Friends invited. If desired, memorials to Riverwood Health Care Facility are preferred. Complete obituary and condolences may be found at www.hampfuneral.com.
Yvonne (Ashley) Martin, resident of Grand Island, born in Norwich,Vermont, passed away peacefully in her daughter’s Grand Island home under the care of Hospice on January 25, 2011. Earned her degree at Buffalo State Teachers College and her Masters degree at Columbia University. During her Professional Career she taught as a Home Economics Teacher at Grand Island, Long Island, Lewiston and in the Adirondacks. She continued in the teaching field as a substitute teacher and was active at Emmanuel Methodist Church and Grand Island Golden Age Center. Yvonne was the daughter of the late Colonel Heber Ashley, Sr. and Beatrice (Lapiere), sister of the late Heber Ashley, Jr. and Emery Ashley. Wife of the late Chester J. Martin. Yvonne is survived by three daughters, Beatrice (Nealis), Ellen (Staniszewski) and Phyllis (Didion), as well as grand, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. In the spirit of the Educator that Yvonne was, she donated her body to the University of Buffalo Medical School, as she continues to teach. Yvonne will be intern at Arlington National Cemetery.
Elizabeth (Ashley) Fancher passed away on February 13, 2011 in Columbia, MO. She was a long time Island resident who attended the Island schools and graduated from LaSalle Sr. High in Niagara Falls. She also attended Orange Coast Community College in California. The wife of Richard M. (Dick) Fancher, she is the mother of Mick and Jerre (Theresa) Fancher of Grand Island, Joshua and Megan Fancher of Columbia, MO and is also survived by her mother, Betty Ashley, three brothers, two sisters and many nieces and nephews. Donations may be made to the local Hospice or the Cancer Society.
Sandra A. (nee Biondolillo) Kujawa of Grand Island, February 11, 2011, wife of Eugene K. Kujawa; dear mother of Andrew (Rachelle) and Robert J. Kujawa; loving grandmother of Tyler James Kujawa; daughter of Josephine Coniglio Biondolillo and the late Russell Biondolillo, Sr.; sister of Russell (Janet) Biondolillo and Mary (George) Topczij; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends will be received at Polish Falcons of America Nest #6, 3171 Broadway near Union Rd., Cheektowaga, Friday, February 18 from 5-9 PM. All are invited to a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Stephen's R.C. Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, Saturday, February 19 at 10 AM. Memorials to Hospice Foundation of WNY, 225 Como Park Blvd., Buffalo 14240 are preferred. Arrangements by D. LAWRENCE GINNANE FUNERAL HOME. www.ginnanefuneralhome.com
Edward Richard L. Rebmann Sr., of Grand Island, NY, February 12, 2011, beloved husband of the late Alice C. (Beiger) Rebmann; dearest father of Joy A. (Gregory) Handgis, Richard L. Jr. (Wendy), Stephen J. (Kim) Rebmann, Pamela A. (Robert) Shoemaker and Barbara L. (Michael) McAlister; grandfather of Jennifer, Robert, Katherine, Jeffrey, Kirsten, Christopher, Christin and Michael; son of the late Louis and Maybell (Smith) Rebmann; predeceased by two sisters; also survived by nieces and nephews. No prior visitation. Family and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service at Forest Lawn Cemetery Chapel, 1411 Delaware Ave., Buffalo, Wednesday morning, February 16 at 10. (Please assemble at chapel). Memorials to Hospice Buffalo, Inc. Arrangements by ERIE COUNTY CREMATION SERVICE, 824-6435
Edward R. "Bob" Hardison,
passed away suddenly on February 4, 2011 at his home in Niagara Falls, Ontario. Formerly of Grand Island, NY. Beloved partner of the late Bruce W. Essex; cherished son of Edna and the late Edward W. Hardison; loving brother of Katherine (Dennis) Jedd, Patricia (Butch) Carrick, Joan (Doug) Gregory and Michael (Patty) Hardison; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Mr. Hardison retired as Project Engineer for Niagara Blower in 1994 after 30 years and also served in the US Army Security Agency. Friends and relatives will gather to celebrate Bob's life at the PATTERSON FUNERAL HOME, 6062 Main St, Niagara Falls, Ontario visiting Saturday, February 12 from 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM. A Funeral Service in celebration of his life will follow visitation at 12:30 PM. Interment will follow at Lundy's Lane Cemetery. In memory of Mr. Hardison donations to Tender Wishes, Niagara Falls, Ontario would be appreciated by his family. On-line condolences at www.pattersonfuneralhome.com.
Daniel J. "Muscles" Moran,February 8, 2011, of Grand Island. Husband of Carol Moran; father of Jacqueline (Christopher) McBride, Jay (Rachele), Joel (Kati), Jonathan, Janine Moran and Jessica (John) Balling; grandfather of Allison, Sydney, Lexia, Quinn, Mia, Bridget, Brady, Avarey, Caden and Maxwell; brother of Diane, Dennis and Ronald (Nancy) Moran; son of the late Ralph and Doris Moran. Friends may call Friday, February 11 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, February 12 at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. in lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the National Kidney Foundation .
Edwin M. Webb, 72, a retired U.S. Air Force Tech sergeant, died Friday, February 4, 2011, at Brooks Memorial Hospital in Dunkirk, N.Y.
He was born July 31, 1938, in Buffalo, N.Y., the son of the late Edwin and Virginia (Staley) Webb.
He served a 20-year career in the United States Air Force during the Korean Conflict having attained the rank of tech sergeant, enlisting on August 8, 1956, and was discharged on October 31, 1976, and was stationed in South Carolina, Florida, Okinawa, Germany, California, Thailand, Alaska and Virginia.
He was a member of the Villenova Grange, the Randolph American Legion, VFW of Grand Island and a lifetime member of the Silver Creek AMVETS. Edwin will be remembered for his love of cooking, tractors and life in Alaska.
He is survived by his wife Diane Emke-Webb of South Dayton, N.Y., whom he married on February 9, 2003, in Hamlet, a brother, John Webb of Warsaw, and 11 stepchildren: Dennis (Lorrie) Emke of Cherry Creek, Dwayne (Kathy) Emke of Forestville, Daryl (Lisa) Emke of South Dayton, Debra (Richard) Walker of Cherry Creek, David Emke of South Dayton, Doris (James) Treusch of South Dayton, Robert (Bonnie) Stewart of Cherry Creek, Joyce (Ron) Towers of Kennedy, Marti Sue (Mike) Telford of Kennedy, Perry Whipple of Jamestown, Allison (Steve) Schrader of Logan, Ohio, 40 stepgrandchildren and 25 stepgreatgrandchildren.
Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his stepparents, Bob and Margaret Emke, his second wife, Marie Webb, two sisters: Eileen Proctor and Beverly Wetzel, and his stepson Andrew Stewart.
Visitation will be held at Hills Funeral Chapel 478 Balcom Corners, South Dayton, N.Y., on Monday, February 7, 2011, from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday, February 8, 2011, at 1 p.m. from the funeral chapel. The Rev. Bethany Ruane of Hamlet United Methodist Church will be officiating. Burial will be in the Randolph Cemetery in Randolph, N.Y.
Family suggests memorials to South Dayton Fire Department, Box 88, South Dayton, NY 14138.
Harold F. Mills Jr.,
55, of Grand Island, NY, unexpectedly January 31, 2011. Harold was employed by M&T Bank. He was the husband of the late Kathy Mills; beloved son of Shirley Piersons of Savona, NY and the late Harold F. Mills; brother of Pam (George) Nichols of Savona, NY and Karen (Dennis) Smith of Campbell, NY; stepson of Elonda Mills and stepbrother of Jeff Mills; he is also survived by nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. Friends may call at the Savona Federated Church, 20 Church St. in Savona, NY on Tuesday from 1 PM-3 PM. A funeral service will begin at 3 P.M. Online register available at frettholdfuneralhome.com.
Carol K. Harris, formerly of Grand Island, February 2, 2011. She was predeceased by her husband Donald F. Harris Sr. in 2009 and a brother Myron King. She's survived by a son Donald F. (Marcia) Harris Jr. and two daughters Kathy Sennott and Janice (Jerold) Hoffman and six grandchildren, Michelle, Carol, Jamie Lynn (Robert), Jeremy (Elena), Stephen (Sasha and Jennifer (Eddy) and 10 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.. A memorial services will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to Homecare and Hospice in Little Valley, NY. Arrangements are under the direction of MENTLEY FUNERAL HOME INC., 411 Rock City St. in Little Valley.
Jane E. (Glover) Cutting,
January 29, 2011, of Grand Island, beloved wife of the late Michael M. Cutting; beloved mother of Robert J. (Karen) of North Tonawanda, James M. (Barbara) of Stratham, NH and John W. (Candace) Cutting of Grand Island; beloved grandmother of Spencer, Jordan, Alley and Caleb Cutting, Chris and Conor Carrier; daughter of the late William and Louise Glover. Friends may call Tuesday, February 1 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, February 2 at 10 AM at St. Martin-In-The-Fields Episcopal Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials many be made to the Hospice Buffalo. Mrs. Cutting was a gourmet cook and an exceptional homemaker.
Franklin A. "Bob" Mesmer, 88, loving husband and father, January 21, 2011, in Myrtle Beach, SC, where he and his wife, Jean, of 21 years, resided for the last 20 years. Bob was a successful businessman and long-time resident of Grand Island. He was predeceased by Dorothy E. (Phillips) Mesmer to whom he was married for 39 years. They had four children Robert (Joy), William (Eileen), Terry (Cindy) Mesmer and Debbie (Ken) Huttmaier. Stepfather of Leonard (Brenda), Debbie (Jim), Charlene, Dean, Karen, and Don; also survived by many nieces, nephews and grandchildren. Memorial Services will be held at St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church, 2587 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, on Saturday, January 29 at 11 AM, with a luncheon to follow in the church social room. Friends and relatives are invited.
George B. Walk,
Buffalo News - buffalonews.com
Feb. 19, 1940-Jan. 21, 2011
Updated: January 24, 2011, 6:29 AM
George B. Walk, Winter Olympics ad designer
George Bruce Walk, a graphics designer whose work included an advertising package for the 1980 Lake Placid Winter Olympics, died Friday at his Grand Island home. He was 70. A native of Phillipsburg., Pa., he moved to Buffalo in 1942, graduating from Hutchinson- Central Technical High School and the University of Buffalo. He and his wife, Betty Burnett, later moved to New York City, where he joined the advertising firm of Sudler and Hennessey, working his way up to become its creative director. He left the firm in 1975 to create his own firm, Bruce Walk Design, and developed a list of high-profile clients and advertising packages that included the 1980 Lake Placid Olympic Games, the Colgate-Palmolive Tennis Tournament, the Volvo Classic Tennis Tournament and the Equitable Life Insurance Amateur Tennis and Ski tournaments. He later modernized his image and changed the name of his firm to Q and A Solutions to develop programs for computer graphics and animations. He and his wife returned to the area in 2009 in retirement and moved to Grand Island. He was a passionate mountain biker, and when one of his daughters was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, he formed a team, "The Walk Riders," to raise money for MS research. Mr. Walk sang with The Voices of Buffalo and many church and community choirs. As a member of the Community Church of Smoke Rise, Kinnelon, N. J., he sang at Notre Dame in Paris and in Bethlehem, Israel, on Christmas Eve. More recently, he sang with the Grand Island Community Chorus. In addition to his wife, he is survived by two daughters, Louise Ellen and Jennifer Anne; a son, Bruce Burnett; two sisters, Jeannette Pease and Louise Carlson; and a brother, Paul. A funeral service will be private.
Lawrence H. Gill,
of Grand Island, January 24, 2011. Husband of Barbara A. Gill; father of Andrew, Christopher and Daniel (Colleen) Gill; step father of Robert (Kim) Willer and Jean (Eric) Pecoraro; grandfather of Andrew, Evan, Nigel, Ryan, Brooke, Maya and Cameron. Friends may call Thursday, January 27 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, where funeral services will be held Friday, January 28 at 10 AM. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.
Carol (nee Wilson) Keenan,
suddenly at St. Catharines General Hospital on Saturday, January 22 after a long illness. She was 63. Carol lived in Grand Island, NY for 13 years. She leaves a son, Brett Wood, his wife Teri and two grandchildren Maci and Tucker in Stevensville, step-sons Matthew and Greg Keenan and a sister, Lynda Wilson in St. Catharines. The family wishes to thank all who supported her: Fred and Jean Waterer, Neil and Bob Savoy, Bob Chassie, Lisa Bryant, James Dyck, Kevin Vincent, Pat Creighton, Dorothy Burton, Kathy and Maria. We also wish to thank the wonderful nurses in Emergency at the hospital. There will be no service. Any donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society. Carol will be forever in the hearts of her family and friends.
Richard W. Meyer,
January 18, 2011. Beloved husband of Helen A. Meyer (nee Skraly); loving father of Margaret (Thomas Kelly) and Norman (Lori); dear grandfather of Spencer and Griffin; brother of Mike (Dodie) Meyer; also survived by six nieces and a nephew. Richard was born in Niagara Falls on July 21, 1929. He lived on Grand Island and in Tonawanda and most recently, Huntington Beach, CA. Memorial Services will be held January 28 at SS. Simon and Jude Catholic Church in Huntington Beach.
Robert Leif Jensen,
born on May 14, 1931, Staten Island, NY Bob Jensen, an incredible and loving husband, father, brother, and friend to all, passed away Saturday morning, January 15, 2011, following a motorcycle accident in San Diego. Bob is survived by his beloved wife Fran, a Realtor with Keller-Williams Realty North County, and his daughters, Cindy Jensen and Karen Lindstrom, both of San Diego. Bob is also survived by his sisters, Dorothy Myhre-Donahue, Staten Island, NY, and Mary Jane Muller, Orlando, FL. Always a kind and generous man, Bob was an organ donor; he will be cremated. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, January 29, 2011, at 11:00 a.m. at Faith Lutheran Church, 700 E. Bobier Drive, Vista, CA 92084. Reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that any donations be made to: SCRIPPS CENTER FOR INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE, c/o Dr. Mimi Guarneri, 10820 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037. Please visit: www.forevermissed.com/bobjensen/#about
Connie Ford Gibbons,
a talented designer and loving wife and mother, died peacefully on January 18, 2011, after a courageous battle with lymphoma. Connie grew up on Grand Island and graduated from Grand Island High School in 1979. Connie lived her dream and was a successful floral and interior designer in Southern California. She will always be remembered for her generous, loving spirit, her enormous design talents, her great sense of humor, and her deep and abiding love for Patrick and Christopher. Connie is survived by her loving husband, Patrick; her son, Christopher; her parents, Dan and Nancy; brother Gary; sister Carole; as well as a niece, nephew, grand-niece and grand-nephew and untold devoted friends. A memorial service will be held at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 4800 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine, California, on Saturday, January 29, 2011 at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers, Connie would prefer that donations be made to a fund for the benefit of her "beautiful blue eyed boy," 5-yearold Christopher. That fund has been set up in the name of Christopher R. Gibbons at Wells Fargo Bank. For further information regarding donations, please contact Betsy at ejginla@aol.com
Patricia (nee Murphy) Less,
January 20, 2011, of Grand Island, age 71, born March 17, 1939 in Tonawanda, wife of Donald J. Less; mother of Debra (Kenneth) Brodie and Joseph (Sandra) Less; also survived by five grandchildren; sister of Mary Ellen (late Richard) Kinzly, Eugene (Marge) Murphy and the late Linda (survived by husband William) Bruns; daughter of the late Joseph and Mary (Dryer) Murphy. Friends may call Sunday, January 23 from 3-7 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd, Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, January 24 at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. A reception will follow the cemetery at the Buffalo Launch Club. Memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo. Mrs. Less received a Masters in education form Lemoyne College and was a member of Grand Island Ladies Club, River Oaks and Beaver Island Golf Clubs; "May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face. May the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again, May the Lord hold you in the palm of His hand."
George E. Bowman III,
of Grand Island, Age 74 died Monday, January 17, 2011. Beloved husband of 57 years to Patricia(Grieco)Bowman, devoted father of Linda Bowman; Kim Bowman; Audene (Chris) Affuso; and Brad Bowman all of Grand Island. Loving grandfather of Stephanie Affuso; Melissa (Joshua) Strange; Kaitlyn Affuso; and Liza Bowman. Loving son of the late George E. Jr. and Veronica (Dwyer) Bowman. Brother of Thomas (Elizabeth Rodak) Bowman, of Florida; James (Eloise Cantara) Bowman of South Carolina; and John Bowman of Tonawanda. Also survived by several relatives and friends. Private memorial service will be held for the family. Donations may be made to the American Lung Association or the Grand Island Volunteer Fire Company.
Eva M. (nee Altmeyer) Ognibene, of Bradenton, FL., formerly of Buffalo, entered into rest, January 16, 2011. Beloved wife of the late Angelo B. Ognibene for 51 years. Devoted mother of Evangela Ognibene and the late Angelo L. Ognibene; loving daughter of the late Frank and Anna Altmeyer; dear sister of Anne Cramer; pre-deceased by nine siblings; cherished aunt of many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews and great-great-nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends may visit the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northtowns Chapel), 885 Niagara Falls Blvd. near Eggert/Sheridan Dr. on Friday, January 21 from 4-8 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Peter & Paul Church, 5480 Main St., Williamsville on Saturday morning at 9:30 o'clock (Please assemble at church). Interment Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Online condolences may be made at www.lombardofuneralhome.com
Jean L. Hoover , 80 of Grand Island passed away Wednesday, January 19, 2011 surrounded by loving family members. Jean was born and raised in Buffalo. She was the kind of woman who never met a stranger and always had kind words to say about everyone. Jean retired from the Grand Island School District after 35 years, taught at Sheridan Parkside Community Center, and was a past Deacon at Faith United Presbyterian Church. Jean and her husband, Ralph, wintered in Florida for the past 15 years. She was also a member of the Red Hat Society and volunteered for Meals on Wheels. She was committed to her family and took pride in being a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and friend. She has left a Godly legacy to her husband Ralph; children Kathleen Applegate (Harold), Donald Hoover (Darlene), Kenneth Hoover (Babette), and Nancy Anderson; grandchildren Danielle, Kate, Sarah, Tim, Ben, Shaun, Justin, Delene, Aimee, Renee, David and Tommy; great-grandchildren Morgan, Ava, Corban, Tessa, Cassidy and Teagan. Also her brothers Irving (Mary), Robert (Marlys), and her sister and best friend, Diana (Fred) along with many nieces and nephews, extended family and friends. Viewing at Kaiser Funeral Home will be held on Thursday, Jan. 20 and Friday, Jan. 21 from 4:00 to 8 p.m. Funeral services will take place on Saturday morning, January 22 at 10:30 a.m. at Faith United Presbyterian Church, 3150 Elmwood Ave., Tonawanda, NY.
Ronald C. Meyer, January 18, 2011; of Grand Island; husband of Kathleen Meyer, father of Deborah (Jeffrey) Szewczyk, Richard (Wendy) Meyer and Colleen (Todd) Endres; grandfather of Anthony and Daniel Szewczyk, Charlene, Kyle, Tyler, Caleb and Caylee Meyer; brother of Gary, Marc (Gloria) and Kevin (Kathy) Meyer. Memorial services will be held Saturday, January 22 at 1:00 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island.
Eric J. Roloff , January 16, 2011, formerly of Grand Island. Beloved son of Dawn (Randy) Willis and Mark (Rebecca) Roloff; loving brother of Brian and Jill Roloff; also survived by grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and many friends. Friends may call Wednesday, Januaary 19 from 2-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral services will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo or Roswell Park Cancer Institute.
Barbara H. (Attridge) VanTassell , January 16, 2011, of Grand Island, wife of William VanTassell; mother of Kathleen Felser, David (Lisa) and Thomas (Tracy) Arch; grandmother of Jesse and Robert Arch; stepmother of Peter VanTassell, Martha (Al) Walter and Edward (Anna) VanTassell; sister of Donald and Dean (Marjorie) Attridge, and Diane (Stephen) Deck; daughter of the late Helen Maynard. Friends may call Tuesday, January 18 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island and Wednesday, January 19 from 10-10:45 AM at the Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter Day Saints, 754 Scovell Dr., Lewiston where Funeral Services will be held Wednesday at 11 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association .
Honor (nee Hallatt) McCrone ,
January 6, 2011, age 89, of Kenmore, formerly of Grand Island, after a brief illness, wife of the late Robert McCrone; mother of Anne (Lawrence) Dombrowski and Judith (Dennis) Castiglia; sister of William (Mary Lou) Hallatt; grandmother of Kara (William) VanWie, Robert (Susan) and Brian Dombrowski, David (Stephanie) Castiglia and Julie (Joseph) DeLoreto; also survived by six great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews. Friends may call Sunday, January 9 only 2-6 PM at the HAMP FUNERAL HOME INC., 37 Adam St., at Seymour, Tonawanda. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday at 10 AM at St. Stephen RC Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. Friends invited. If desired, memorials to the American Cancer Society are preferred. Complete obituary, condolences and directions at www.hampfuneral.com.
Charles Lopresti ,
January 5, 2011, of Grand Island, husband of the late Carmella LoPresti; also survived by six children, seven brothers and sisters, many grandchildren and great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Private funeral services were held at the convenience of the family. Memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.
Isabel S. (Nicholson) Allen,
of Grand Island, entered into rest January 8, 2011 at age 88.
Beloved wife of John E. "Jack" Allen, long time Courier Express columnist, beloved mother to her children Scott Allen, Bruce (Sarah) Allen and Meg (Stan) Pietras; beloved Nana to her grandchildren Brett Pietras, Noelle Pietras and Jack Allen. Born in Niagara Falls to the late Charles and Isabelle Nicholson, she was the beloved sister of the late Jean Sanford, Donald Nicholson Sr. and Dr. Ellen Nicholson.
During WW II, Isabel worked building fighter planes and bombers for Bell Aircraft. She earned a BS in Early Children Education from UB. After marrying her husband, Jack, and moving to the Island, she became teacher/director at the Grand Island Co-operative Nursery School, where she taught for 25 years.
Isabel loved children, animals, music, sunsets on the Niagara River, and caring for others. She was a joy and a treasure to all who knew her. She died as she lived, in peace and surrounded by those she taught so well that Love is everything.
Memorial services will be held Saturday, January 15, at 11 AM at Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island; in lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Buffalo City Mission or the Erie County SPCA.
Arrangements by Kaiser Funeral Home.
Shirley A. Brick ,
January 6, 2011, of Grand Island; wife of Robert Brick, mother of Daniel (Colleen) Brick; grandmother of Rielly and Quinn Brick; sister of Samuel (Nancy) Matikosh, William Matikosh, Jackie (Walter) Diermyer, Barbara (late Robert) Snider and the late Phyllis Matikosh; daughter of the late Samuel and Leota Matikosh; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Sunday, January 9 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral services will be held Monday, January 10 at 11 AM at Whitehaven Road Baptist Church, Mrs. Brick was a former teacher for 42 years at the Ohio School in North Tonawanda, and was very active in Grand Island Little League and Grand Island Junior Football.
Daneen L. Hollfelder,
December 30, 2010, former Grand Island resident. Loving daughter of Donald M. and the late Marjorie A. (nee Weast) Hollfelder; dear sister of Donald L. (Lynne), Dennis C. (Karen) and the late Diane Williams; also survived by nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends at the C. MERTZ AND SON FUNERAL HOME, INC., 911 Englewood Ave. for Memorial Visitations Tuesday, Jan. 4 from 6-8 PM.
Robert F. Edwards,
went home to be with the Lord January 4, 2011, of Grand Island. Husband of Reba Edwards; father of Robert A. (Geri Wilson), Judy A. (William R. Weaver), Mark B. (Carla), David R. (Sandra) Edwards, Janet (Gary) Prange, Shawn P. (Angela) and the late Ralph S. Edwards; grandfather of Aaron, Matthew, Charity, Lucas, Hannah, Rachel, Reba, Joshua and Caiden Edwards, Justin and Brett Weaver, Robert and Adam Prange; great-grandfather of Mikhayla and Adriana Edwards; brother of Iowa Bowman, Henry (Pamela) Edwards and Ethel Dickey; predeceased by eight brothers and sisters. Friends may call Friday, January 7 from 2-4 & 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral services will be held Saturday, January 8 at 10 AM at the Greater Niagara Falls Church Of God, 2334 Lockport Rd., Sanborn, NY.
