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Previous Death Notices
Barbara (nee Schopp) - Dec. 26, 2022, age 74; beloved wife of Charles E. Bell; dear mother of Jill Robins (David Schulz); step-mother of Kathryn Bell (Nathan Gault) and Lauren (James) Metzler; grandmother of Jamie and Hannah Gault; sister of Linda (Stuart) MacLeod; Richard (Jill) Schopp; also survived by nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be announced in the spring or early summer. If desired, memorials may be made to Kevin Guest House or University Presbyterian Church Buffalo. Arrangements by VANDERCHER & DICK FUNERAL HOME. Online condolences at VANDDFUNERALHOME.com.
Blase A. Nicolia - 90, of Grand Island, NY, passed away peacefully at his residence on December 28, 2022 surrounded by his loving family. Born in Middleport, NY he was the son of the late Antonio and Gaetana (Spittileri) Nicolia. On July 26, 1958 he married Amelia T. (Sarkees) Nicolia. In addition to his wife of 64 years, Blase is survived by his children, Blase A. (Amy) Nicolia, Jr. and Michael (Vanessa) Nicolia; his daughter-in-law, Judith Nicolia; his grandchildren, Andrea (Matt) Bove, Gregory Nicolia and Anna Nicolia and a great grandchild due in March, as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins. Blase was predeceased by his son, John Nicolia and siblings, Vincenza Ragusa, Vito Ragusa and Vincenzo (late Grace) Nicolia. There will be no prior visitation. Blase's Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, January 4 at 10:30 AM at Niagara University Alumni Chapel, 6 Vincentian Dr, Lewiston, NY 14109. Interment in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Lewiston, NY. If desired memorial offerings may be made to Catholic Charities of Buffalo. Arrangements by M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.
Marie A. (nee Deck) Sutton - Of Grand Island, NY December 20, 2022. Beloved wife of Deacon Thomas L. Sutton; Devoted mother of Victoria T. Sutton; loving daughter of Lucy Castelluccio (late Aldo) D'Alessandro and Paul Deck; sister of Elizabeth (Mark) Von Wald, sister-in-law of Donna (late Tom) Figenscher and Mark (Paula) Sutton; also survived by many extended family and close friends. Friends may call at St. Stephen's RC Church 2100 Baseline Rd. Grand Island Tuesday, December 28th, 2-7PM. Where a Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday at 9:30 AM. Arrangements by D. LAWRENCE GINNANE FUNERAL HOME, Kenmore, NY. Memorials to St. Luke Mission of Mercy PO Box 448 Buffalo 14215 are preferred. Please leave condolences at www.GinnaneFuneralHome.com.
Mary Ellen (nee Buchanan) Keister - 95, of Henrico, Virginia went to be with our Lord on December 8, 2022. She was preceded in death by her husband, Forest Keister Sr. She is survived by her children Forest Jr., Mary Keister Johnson, Gary, and grandchild Diane. Originally from Meadville, Pennsylvania she graduated from Meadville High School in 1945. She worked in the Admitting Office of Spencer Hospital. She met her future husband there who was working at the hospital lab. After getting married they moved to Niagara Falls, and later Grand Island, New York. Upon raising the children, she worked in the Admitting Office of Mount St. Mary's Hospital in Lewiston, New York. During retirement she and her husband moved to Richmond, Virginia where they attended the Brookland United Methodist Church. A memorial service will be private. She will be interred at Greendale Cemetery, Meadville, Pennsylvania.
Gary T. "Tuck" Morris - December 1, 2022, Age 60, passed away after a long illness in Tampa, FL. Born Dec 10, 1961 in Buffalo, NY. Mr. Morris graduated from Grand Island Senior High School in 1980, then spent time in the Marine Corps. He resided in Bartow, FL, and enjoyed nature photography, cheering on the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Buffalo Bills, and spending time with family and friends. He is survived by a loving family that includes his son William (Itzel), sisters Jane Smigiera (Dennis) and Nancy Beaumont (Angelo), brother David (Debra), grandsons Aiden and Roman, and many nieces and nephews. Services were held Dec 5, 2022 in Bartow, FL. Condolences to the family at www.whiddenmccleanfuneralhome.com.
Lorraine J. O'Connor-DeRosa - December 12, 2022, of Grand Island, formerly of Lewiston. Wife of Louis DeRosa. Mother of Andrea DeRosa and Alex (Alexandra) DeRosa. Sister of Daniel (Christine) O'Connor and the late Thomas (survived by wife Donna) O'Connor. Daughter of the late John and Evelyn (nee Shannon) O'Connor. Proud aunt and great aunt to 13 nieces and nephews, and 18 great nieces and great nephews. Also survived by her beloved 4 legged family. Lorraine is remembered as the most loving mother to her children, a great connector of friends and family, a dedicated employee of 49 years to Benchmark Management Corp. as a Divisional VP, and a proud member of LAOH and SAHMA. Above all else, she loved her family and friends, travel, her Adirondack cabin, live music, and a glass of red wine. Friends may call Friday 2-4 & 5-7:30 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday at 9:30 AM at St. Stephen's Church. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be sent to Roswell Park Alliance Foundation and CancerCare Co-Payment Assistance Foundation. Share condolences at Kaiser funeral.com.
Janet (nee Gabel) Grimes - Age 88, January 13, 1934-November 29, 2022. Janet Grimes passed away at her home on Grand Island surrounded by loving family. Beloved wife, devoted mother, and doting grandmother, Janet enjoyed traveling to spend time with her family in Georgia and California. Janet is survived by her husband of 68 years, Earl M. Grimes; her children, Ronald (Kathleen Denny) of Atlanta GA, Alan Max (Elizabeth Curry) of Huntington Beach CA, Gail Dorsey of Grand Island NY, Leslie Martin of Niagara Falls NY, and Christina Grimes (Stacy Kenworthy) of Atlanta GA. Janet was fortunate to have 6 grandchildren, Melissa Martin and David Martin of Niagara Falls, Zachary Grimes (Victoria Douglass) of Huntington Beach CA, Jason Grimes of Washington DC, and Claire Grimes & Max Grimes of Huntington Beach, CA; and blessed with her great-grandchildren, Emma Martin of Niagara Falls NY and Oliver Grimes, Waylon Grimes, and Thomas Hartman of Huntington Beach, CA. Janet was pre-deceased by her parents Edward and Mable Gabel (Hamilton) of Dayton NY. In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated at Ten Lives Club (https://www.tenlivesclub.com/donate) or the American Stroke Association (https://www.stroke.org) in Janet's memory.
Helen "Miss Helen" (nee Lucchino) Tomkinson - December 4, 2022. Of Grand Island; Daughter of the late Michael C. and Anna Lucchino; Wife of the late Thomas "Tim" Tomkinson; Mother of Nancy (Jay) Hollinger and the late Robert Tomkinson; Grandmother of Ashley and Jason Hollinger; Greatgrandma of Joseph Ciovacco; Sister of Elizabeth Lucchino, the late Michael V. Lucchino and the late Marie (Ryan) Ball. Helen is also survived by many nieces and nephews. A Memorial Mass will be held at a later date. Share condolences at Kaiserfuneral.com.
Josephine (Giordano-Pullano) Malesky - Of Amherst, NY passed peacefully surrounded by her family on December 3, 2022 after a brief illness. Beloved wife of 33 years to William Malesky; loving daughter of the late John and Patricia Pullano; adored daughter-in-law of Audrey (late William) Malesky; dear sister of John (Joanne) Pullano, Peggy (Robert) Carroll, James (Kelly) Pullano, Jeremy (Jennifer) Pullano and the late Joseph Pullano; also survived by many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Jody enjoyed watching her Buffalo teams, the Bills and Sabres. She was a longtime member of the Buffalo Sabres Booster Club. She and Bill were truly teammates throughout their lives. She always had a smile on her face, was warm and outgoing, loved all the babies in the family and had a sweet and gentle soul. Relatives and friends may visit LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northtowns Chapel) 885 Niagara Falls Blvd. near Eggert, Amherst, NY on Thursday, December 8th from 4PM – 8PM. Flowers gratefully declined. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Leo the Great Church on Friday at 9 AM. Please assemble at church. Interment Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Memorials may be made in Jody’s memory to the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America at donate. myasthenia.org.
John Christopher Frosolone - passed away suddenly of a heart attack on November 20, 2022 in his residence. John was born May 13, 1959 in Niagara Falls, NY, the youngest of four children of the late Alfred and Christine (Mastropaolo) Frosolone, John attended Sacred Heart School, graduating from Niagara Catholic HS in 1977. He attended Niagara University, graduating summa cum laude in 1981 with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree; the highest ranking student in four years of Accounting. John received the NYS Society of Certified Public Accountants Award at graduation. While studying, John was selected as an intern with the CPA firm of Salada, Wynne and Kling; and Lawrence Salada hired him upon graduation from NU. In later years, John joined with other partners to form the firm Simpson, Kling, Quarantillo & Frosolone, CPAs. Throughout his career John assisted so many individual and organizational clients who appreciated his attention to detail and dedication to his chosen career. He was involved with various organizations, including but not limited to the former Music School of Niagara and St. Luke’s Mission of Mercy.
John enjoyed traveling in his younger years – across the USA, camping in Canada with friends, and visiting Europe. He had a quick and witty sense of humor and was a good conversationalist. In retirement he enjoyed researching the family genealogy, creating the family tree. He used his God-given talents in the accounting and tax field, as well as honing his technological expertise. John was a humble, generous man and faced life’s challenges quietly.
John was a loving and faithful brother of Anthony (Cecelia) Frosolone, Alfred (late Irene) Frosolone, and RoseMarie (Bill) Schmidtke; and caring godfather to Eric Dudley. He is also survived by his Aunt Marise Mastropoll, as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins and wonderful friends who loved him dearly. He was known as ‘Uncle John’ to his friends’ children.
It’s difficult to sum up a person’s life. An obituary can highlight milestones and accomplishments, and also helps us to understand what made a person special. John had a deep interest in family and friends. Both us here now, and those who are now gone. He enjoyed telling us about the past; about the people and events that connect us to each other. Some things he told us were happy or funny; others were sad or even disturbing. They were all important because they helped us to better understand where we came from and who we are. That was John’s gift to us. But that wasn’t his greatest gift. John understood that as long as people remember you and talk about you, you are in a way still alive, and still a part of their lives. I can’t think of a greater gift. We’ll miss you John, and we’ll always be grateful that you reminded us of the importance of family and friends. John’s family is grateful to the Erie County Sheriff’s deputies and EMT professionals who responded so quickly when needed.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, November 30 from 9-11 AM at St. Mary of the Cataract Church, 237 4th Street, Niagara Falls, NY 14303, where John’s Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Fr. Jacek Mazur, Pastor, on Wednesday at 11 AM. Interment in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Lewiston NY. In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to Divine Mercy Food Pantry or a charity of one’s choice. Arrangements by M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.
Joseph H. Cushner - November 18, 2022. Son of Joseph S. (Barbara) Cushner and the late Hazel (Patrick) Murphy; Brother of Sandra L. Cushner; Nephew of Louis (Suzette) and William Henry; Also survived by other aunts, uncles and cousins. Joseph is a graduate of Grand Island High School and the University of Rochester. He worked for many years in sales and telecommunications. Funeral services private. Donations may be made to Pets Alive WNY, 7007 Campbell Blvd., North Tonawanda, 14120. Share condolences at Kaiserfuneral.com. Published by Buffalo News on Nov. 29, 2022.
Mary Jean (nee Missert) Merritt - Entered into rest November 17, 2022; of Grand Island; beloved wife of the late Donald A. Merritt; loving mother of Kristine (Paul) Bovenzi, Lynn (Charles) Mitchell, Robert (Patricia) Merritt and Sally (Ross) Kaiser. Devoted grandmother of Kate (Corey) Perkins, Adam Kaiser, Amanda (Danny) Wayne, Sarah (Kyle) Monroe, Emily Bovenzi, and Elizabeth Merritt. Proud great grandmother of five. Predeceased by her late siblings Joan (late William) Vaughan, John (late Agnes) Missert, Robert (late Olive) Missert and Teddy Missert. Survived by many wonderful nieces, nephews, dear friends and her favorite dog Teddy. Mary was a devout Christian and involved with St. Stephen's Church, the charismatic renewal, Women of the Word bible study, and St. Stephen's prayer chain. Funeral services private. Memorials may be made to Niagara Hospice. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Maria DelSignore - 80, of Grand Island, NY, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 16, 2022. Born in Supino, Italy, during World War II, she was the daughter of the late Eugenio and Rosa (Agostini) Marchioni; beloved wife of the late Frank A. DelSignore, Sr.; loving mother of Frank Jr. (Patricia), David, Michael (April) and Marla (Niall Majury); cherished grandmother of Darren, Jenna, Mallory, Emily, Nate, Anna and Leo. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins and was predeceased by her siblings Guerrino, Santina and Anthony (Liliana). Visitation will be Tuesday, November 22 from 3 - 7 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY. Maria's Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday at 9:30 AM in St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island, NY. Interment will be held privately in St. Stephen's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to Hospice of Buffalo, 225 Como Park Blvd, Buffalo, NY 14227. Online condolences at mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com
Mary A. (nee Imler) Landel - Entered into rest on November 16, 2022, at age 102. Beloved wife of the late Carlisle O. Landel Jr. for 58 years. Loving Mother of Marian "Peggy" (Paul) Koppmann, Robert (Susan) Landel, John (fiancé Terri Neaderhiser) Landel, and David (Ann Marie) Landel. Loving Grandmother of Peter (Joyce) Koppmann, Carl (Amy) Koppmann, Michael Landel, Daniel (Jessica) Landel, Kathryn (Matthew) Allwes, Heather Snell, Kimberly (Jason) Reader, John (fiancé Lisa Fleener) Landel Jr., Adam (Crystal) Landel, Ryan (Margaret) Landel, Julie (Bashar) Srouji, Sara Landel. Cherished Great-grandmother of Benjamin and Madeleine Landel, Olive Srouji, the late Jacob Snell, Evelyn Landel, Alexandra, Dannielle, and Erica Reader. Also survived by brother-in-law Dr. Robert F. Landel and many nieces and nephews. A Visitation will be held at Dietrich Funeral Home, 2480 Kensington Ave., Amherst on Monday, November 21st, 2022 from 3 - 7 pm. A Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday November 22nd, 2022 at 12pm at Christ United Methodist Church, 350 Saratoga Road, Amherst. The family is grateful to Mary's many caregivers over the years and to the staff of Elderwood at Grand Island. Flowers are gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Christ United Methodist Church. Arrangements by The Dietrich Funeral Home. Share your online condolences at www.thedietrichfuneralhome.com.
Shirley (nee Kreger) Luther - November 18, 2022, age 98, of Grand Island. Beloved wife of the late LaVerne "Bunny" Luther. Loving mother of Nancy (late Richard) Sandford, Gail (late William) Click, Carol (late Charles) Dunworth and the late Cpl. Robert B. Luther. Grandmother of Kelly Mongold, late Robert (survived by wife Angela) Click, William (Danielle) Click, Michael (Beth) Sandford, Benjamin (Jillian) Hoover, Justin (Michele) Hoover and Darcy (Steve) Lamb. Also survived by 17 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild. Daughter of the late Benjamin and Mabel (nee Long) Kreger. Sister of the late Ralph and Joan Kreger. Friends may call Friday, November 24th 1-3 PM and 5-8 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home 1950 Whitehaven Rd. Grand Island. Funeral services will be held Saturday at 10 AM at Trinity United Methodist Church 2100 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo or the SPCA. Shirley was Grand Island School Secretary to the Superintendent, and School District Clerk. She was Editor of the "Islander' from 1942-45 and a member of Trinity U.M. Church, a member to Save Historic Trinity Church, President of the Grand Island Memorial Library, Neighbors Foundation Director, Preservation Advisory Board and the Historical Society. She was Citizen of the year in 1985 for Education and Founder of the Town Supervisor collection in the Town Hall in 1981. She was also Co-chairman of the Veterans Wall Memorial. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com
John D. Czora - November 13, 2022. Son of Joseph H. Czora Jr. and the late Helen Czora nee Shoff; Brother of Michael (Clarice) Czora, Patricia Czora, Karen Milovich and Joanne Czora; Unlce of Ian Czora, Kristina (nee Tetkowski) (Sean) Murphy, James D. (Lauren) Czora and Cody (David) Grover; Great uncle of James, Jude, Clementina and Sloane. Also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins and good friends. John was a graduate of Grand Island High School class of 1982 and was a member of the Operating Engineers Union Local 12. A Memorial Mass will be held Monday at 11 A.M. at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Grand Island Fire Department. Share condolences at Kaiserfuneral.com.
Joan M. (nee Gethoefer) Mayse - Of Grand Island. November 12, 2022. Beloved wife of 27 years to the late Charles D. Mayse. Dear mother of Dawn Marie Pierce, Tammy (Matthew) Hakes, loving grandmother of, Crystal (fiancé Joe Harvath) Falbo, Joshua Pierce, Jessica Pierce, Taylor Trautman, Brianna Hakes, and great-grandmother of Blake, Autumn and Wesley, sister of Kathleen (Dennis) O'Connor, Michael Conroy and the late Judith (late Calvin) Frye, also survived by nieces and nephews. Friends may call at D. LAWRENCE GINNANE FUNERAL HOME 3215 Delaware Ave., Kenmore Saturday (Nov. 19th) 1-4pm when funeral service will commence. Memorial contributions Hospice Foundation PO Box 590 Buffalo, 14240 are preferred. Online condolences at www.ginnanefuneralhome.com.
Donald D. Barton - November 14, 2022; of Grand Island, NY; 82; Beloved husband of Cheryl (nee Woodley) Barton. Devoted father of Sean Fenger, Dawn (Kirk) Lawley, Donnie Barton, Jr. and Sandy. Cherished grandfather of Jake, Julia, Christopher and Amanda. Loving son of the late Francis and Antoinette Barton. Dear brother of Carm Barton and the late Francis, Robert and Michael Barton. Also survived by nieces and nephews. Family will be present to receive relatives and friends on Thursday from 3-7 p.m. at the GRECO FUNERAL HOME, 2909 Elmwood Ave., where a Funeral Service will immediately follow. Flowers gratefully declined. If desired, contributions may be made to Pan-Cam.org. Donald was an avid hunter, fisherman and member of the Grand Island Rod and Gun Club. Please share condolences online at www.GRECOFUNERAL.com.
Rosemary “Ro” Woodworth Whiting - Pictured here on her birthday celebrating 100 wonderful years of life and love. Born June 17, 1922, she passed away peacefully on November 9, 2022 surrounded by her family. “Ever-lovin” wife of the late Richard C. “Bud” Whiting for 75 years. Cherished, admired and loving mother of Scott (Carol) Whiting, Richard C. Whiting, Jr., Rosemary (Don) Culbert, Winanne Whiting, Connie (Rob) Fitzpatrick, Jim (Barb) Whiting and Diane (John) Lowe. Extraordinary grandmother of Scottie, Jay and the late Jonathan Whiting, Natalee (Brennan) Carey and Julia Culbert, Sean (Kayla) and Casey Fitzpatrick, Zachary Whiting, Jessie and Matt Lowe; great-grandmother of Austin, Michael and Skylar; daughter of the late J. Galvin and Lillian Woodworth. Pre-deceased by sister Suzanne Hamberger (George “Bus” Hamberger, Sr.). Survived by many adored nieces, nephews and a beloved cousin. Resided in Buffalo, Kenmore, Grand Island and Williamsville. Proud graduate and Class Agent of Buffalo Seminary Class of 1940. Loyal and devoted to her family and many dear friends throughout her lifetime with humor, fun, gratitude and kindness.
Mom truly was an inspiration and our biggest cheerleader. Among her final words...”I had a beautiful life.” Visitation will be held at the James E. Grace Funeral Home, Inc., 335 Ontario St., Buffalo Monday, November 14 from 4-7 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, November 15, at St. Stephen R.C. Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to organizations where Mom volunteered: Hospice & Palliative Care Buffalo and American Red Cross Buffalo. Heartfelt thanks to Hospice for the compassionate care. Online condolences can be shared at https://buffalonews.com/obituaries.
Richard & Mary Jane (nee Dudek) Pyc - Richard J. Pyc-Born February 8, 1933, passed away under the care of Hospice, at home, on Monday, October 3, 2022. Then Richard's wife of 60 years, Mary Jane Dudek-Born on October 1,1939 passed away at home, as wished, on October 23, 2022. They are survived by their six children: Christopher (Lisa), David, Julie (Howard) Wass, Jacquelyn Riley, Jonathan (Melissa), & TJ(Melissa), along with 16 grandchildren: Kayla, Brittany, Lauren, Tyler, Casey "Richie", Jessica, Jimmy, Jacquelyn, Hannah, Savannah, Aleksander, Chase, Blake, Sophia, Cooper, & Jaxen, and a great-granddaughter, Mariana. Also by their brothers, Lawrence "Spike" (Sue), Michael (Patricia), & sister in law, Eleanor Dudek, as well as many nieces and nephews. They are pre-deceased by:their parents, Walter and Mary (Fuitko) Pyc and Casimir and Harriett (Witkowski) Dudek, and brothers, Richard (Mary Rose) and Peter Dudek and Henry (Ruth Ann) Pyc. To celebrate Richard and Mary Jane's lives there will be a Memorial Mass at St Stephen Roman Catholic Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island,14072, on Friday, November 18, 2022 @ 11:00 am. No flowers please. Memorials can be sent to any of the following in their names: St. Stephen Roman Catholic Church St. Francis High School-4129 Lake Shore Rd, Hamburg, NY 14075 Niagara University- Institutional Advancement, PO Box 2008, Niagara University, NY 14109.
Branka "Bonnie" Sciuk - November 8, 2022, of Grand Island. Mother of Elizabeth Slasney, David Sciuk and Paula (Kenneth) Sciog. Grandmother of Robyn (William) Muehlbauer. Great grandmother of Connor, Liam and Ryan. Sister of the late Milena Cillag. Funeral services will be private. Born in Niagara Falls in 1927, moved to Grand Island in 1961 with her family, started Brite Ideas Sales & Marketing Inc. in 1985, on Grand Island. A strong advocate for women in business, a lecturer for the promotional products industry, one of the most awarded small businesswomen and assisted many, many others in need. Served on the Grand Island Board of Economic Development, on the board of the American-Serbian Club, past secretary of Women Interested in Cystic Health and member of the GOP. Involved in the American-Serbian community, her church and other ethnic events in the USA and Canada. Branka lived a long and generous life in Western New York and is truly loved and missed. Please share online condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Joseph DeRose - November 12, 2022; age 92, of Grand Island, New York; Joseph is survived by his beloved wife Rosemarie; his son, Donald, granddaughter Sarah (Erick), great-grandchildren Hannah and Jonah, many nieces, nephews and cousins. Joseph was a professor of speech pathology at Buffalo State College. With his wife, he owned and operated Hearing and Speech Center of WNY. He was a member of The Chapel at CrossPoint. A Celebration of life will be held at a later date. ARRANGEMENTS BY AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC. Please share condolences at at www.AMIGONE.com.
Patricia Ann Gruber - 90, of Grand Island, surrounded by her loving family passed into the arms of the angels on November 10, 2022. Daughter of the late Paul and Clarabelle Wolf, she was the beloved wife of the late Daniel C Gruber of 65 years. Patricia was the devoted and loving mother of Debra (Marvin) Pawlowski, Diana (Gary) Kornacki, Dana (Randolph) Mirowski, Daniel Gruber, Dale Gruber, David (late Karen) Gruber, Richard (Kimberly) Gruber, Donna (Chene) Middleton, Douglas (Cyril) Gruber and Damon (Cathy) Gruber. Her loving family includes 29 grandchildren and 30 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild. She is also survived by one brother, William (Nancy) Wolf, and four sisters, Paula (Lee) Twaits, Christine (Jack) Thomann, Elizabeth Sass, and Mary (Robert) Spengler. Pat was predeceased by her brother, Joseph Wolf, and a sister, Diane (late James) Thompson. She had a deep abiding faith in the Catholic Church and recited the rosary daily. Pat loved bingo, euchre, scratch lotteries and cooking for her family and friends. Her love of travel with her husband took them to six continents and on many family cruises. Pat and Dan also enjoyed wintering in Sarasota, Florida. The family will be present at Kaiser Funeral Home 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island on Friday, November 18 from 4 to 8 PM. Family and friends are invited on Saturday, November 19 for a Mass of Christian Burial celebrated at St. Stephens Church, 2100 Baseline Rd, Grand Island at 9:30 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to one of her lifelong charities, Save the Children at savethechildren.org. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Geraldine Santa "Gerry" (nee Palestine) Elie - age 90, October 18, 2022. Gerry, formerly a 40yr. resident of Grand Island, died peacefully at her home in Poughkeepsie, NY. She was active on the St. Stephen's Bereavement committee, and was a long-time volunteer at Shea's Theater & Kleinhan's Music Hall. Gerry was also an avid reader and talented painter. Gerry is survived by her 5 children: Kathleen Elie-Goldman & husband Daniel; John A. Elie & wife Barbara; Mary Elie-Laman & husband Mark; Geraldine T. Elie-Carroll & husband Thomas; and Timothy A. Elie & wife Theresa. She was affectionately called "GiGi" by her 17 grandchildren & 24 great-grandchildren. She was dearly loved and will be greatly missed by all. A memorial mass will take place in the Spring at St. Stephen's RC church on Grand Island. Details at a later date.
Christopher E. Gibney - Of Grand Island, entered into rest on November 4, 2022. Loving husband of Michele Gibney. Devoted father of Christopher, Chrisena, and Brianna Gibney. Loving son of the late John and Eunice Gibney. Dear brother to John, Elaine, and Tim Gibney. Also survived by several nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to HospiceBuffalo.com. Thank you to all our family and friends who supported us during this journey. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday at 1:00 PM at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island. Join us to celebrate his life at the Buffalo Launch Club on November 12, 2022, from 4-6 pm. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Dr. Prem Datta Bharadwaj - passed away peacefully on October 19, 2022 at age 91 in Plano, Texas. He is survived by his wife of 73 years, Vidya Wati (Sharma), 4 children: Rakesh, Rajnesh (Suman), Vidhu Eranki (Sasidhar) and Sudhakar (Medha) and 7 grandchildren: Rajiv, Annu (Ashok), Amit, Lori, Nina, Anuj and Shivani. Dr. Bharadwaj was a resident of Grand Island from 1970 - 1994. He was a professor of Physics at Niagara University from 1962 until his retirement in 2007. In lieu of flowers, donations to Niagara University’s scholarship fund can be offered on behalf of Dr. Prem Datta Bharadwaj at https://support.niagara.edu/scholarships Full obituary here.
Thomas E. Butler - 79, of Grand Island, passed away on November 2, 2022. Tom was born on May 14, 1943 in Buffalo to Andrew and Helen (Moran) Butler. He grew up in Buffalo and graduated from Canisius College, where he excelled on the debate team in national competitions. He earned a law degree in 1968 from Toledo University College of Law, where he was editor-in-chief of the Student Bar Association newspaper. In 1968 Tom married Margaret "Peggy" Stimac of Toledo and they moved to the Buffalo area, settling on Grand Island. Tom practiced law from 1969 to the present and he also served as senior legal counsel to the New York State Liquor Authority, retiring from that position in 2010. He became active in Grand Island politics in the 1970's, running twice for Town Justice and later for Erie County Legislator. Tom was a long time member of the Grand Island Lions Club and the Grand Island Knights of Columbus. A member of the Niagara Falls Country Club, he was an ardent golfer and he was also a very dedicated (and lately, very pleased!) Bills fan. Conversations with Tom were lively and entertaining, often including his love and knowledge of history, and, sometimes, his spot-on impersonations. Survived by his loving wife Peggy, beloved daughter Helen (Paul) Ceppaglia and sister Linda (John) Masters of Englewood, FL, Tom was also proud Granddad to Nick and Violet and honorary Granddad to neighbor Kendall. Also surviving are many loving in-laws, nieces, nephews and cousins. Donations in Tom's name can be made to the Grand Island Lions Club, PO Box 71, Grand Island, NY and/or Grand Island Knights of Columbus, 1841 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island, NY. Visitation is Wednesday, November 9th, 4-8 PM at Kaiser Funeral Home 1950 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday at 9:30 AM at St. Stephen Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island. Share condolences at www.kaiserfuneral.com
Patricia A. (nee Salisbury) Allen - Of Grand Island, NY, November 4, 2022. Beloved wife of the late Richard C. Allen; dearest mother of Sheila J. Merrill, Patricia A. Mongan and the late Colleen M. Allen; grandmother of Christina, Jonathon, Kelly and Sheila; great-grandmother of Cadence and Cullen; daughter of the late Patrick M. and Edna (Sayles) Salisbury; sister of Sheila Frost; predeceased by 11 brothers and sisters; also survived by nieces and nephews. No prior visitation. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements by: CASTIGLIA FUNERAL HOME, INC., 824-6435. Please share your condolences at: www.castigliafuneralhome.com.
Richard F. Panfil - Of Grand Island, NY entered into rest November 1, 2022; beloved husband of Judith (nee Zuba); devoted father of Sara (David) Sadowski; cherished Opa of Benjamin; treasured son of the late Andrew and Laura Panfil; dear brother of Nora (late Frank) Capuano and Claudia Panfil; also survived by loving nephews. No prior visitation. Arrangements by LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northtowns Chapel). A Celebration of Life is being planned at the convenience of the family. Please make a donation in Dick's memory to Lustgarten Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research. Online condolences at www.lombardofuneralhome.com.
Jean Frances (nee Bancroft) McCracken - Age 86 passed away on October 26, 2022, at the home of her daughter, Margaret (Meg) McCracken, in Canton, Michigan. Jean was born to Clarence and Marguerite Bancroft on December 27, 1935, in Carthage, NY. After graduating from Carthage High School in 1954, she moved to Buffalo, NY to attend SUNY College at Buffalo, where she graduated in 1959, and later earned a master's degree in 1971. While attending college, she met her husband, Clyde McCracken, and they were married in 1957. Jean was a Special Education teacher in the Buffalo Public Schools for 32 years, retiring in 1991. After retirement she volunteered at a foster care agency, which eventually led to a second career as an Education Specialist with Hillside Children's Center, from which she retired in 2010. A longtime resident of the City of Tonawanda, and member of St. Francis Catholic Church, Jean later lived in Grand Island, before moving to Michigan in 2013. Loving mother to her children Margaret McCracken of Canton, MI, Joan (Gary) McGuire of Tonawanda, NY, Ralph McCracken of San Francisco, CA, and daughter-in-law Jennifer McCracken of Batavia, NY, she was also a beloved grandmother to Phillip (Michelle) Dougher of Englewood, CO, Amethyst McCracken of Bergen, NY, Connor McGuire of Rochester, NY, Griffin McGuire of Oakfield, NY, and great-grandsons Quinn and Theodore. She is also survived by her dear sister Mary Jo Diorio, of Enfield, CT, as well as many nieces and nephews. Jean was predeceased by her husband Clyde, as well as her 3 brothers, Jon, Carl, and James, and sister Sheila. Jean enjoyed reading, watching British television dramas, learning more about her family history, and traveling, especially to the Adirondack Mountains. She also loved dogs, especially her most recent companion, Phoebe, who passed just days before her. We know they are walking together again. Jean kept a framed copy of the line "It is in giving that we receive", from the Peace Prayer of St. Francis, on prominent display. It could be a motto for her life. She gave so much of herself to her family, friends, students, co-workers, and community, and found joy in doing so. She will be dearly missed. We would like to give special thanks to Angela Hospice for their care, support, and compassion for Jean and her daughter over the past two years. A private burial was held by the family at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Kenmore, NY. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Jean may be made to Angela Hospice of Livonia, MI. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.ROTHFUNERAL.com.
John J. Monkelban - Of Grand Island NY October 29th 2022 Beloved son of John T. & Alice {Kurtz} Monkelban Dear brother of Alice {Richard} Turner, Thomas {Nancy} Monkelban, & the late Michael, Kenneth {Susan} & Anthony {Beverly} Monkelban, survived by many Nieces, Nephews, Grand Nieces & Nephews, & Family and Friends, All are welcome to attend a Celebration of Life Service on Saturday Nov.12 2022 at 1:00 at Cornerstone Church at 1290 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island NY.
Dennis W. Ringler - Age 52 of Grand Island, October 29, 2022 at VA Medical Center in Buffalo. Son of Kathy M. (nee Fitzgerald) Ringler and the late Robert J. Ringler who died in 2020, father of Brennan (Corey), grandfather of Julian, Jordan and Logan, brother of the late Paul Charles Ringler, his fiancee and Soulmate Nancy Sullivan. Also survived by his aunts, uncles and cousins. Dennis was a 1988 graduate of Grand Island High School and served as a US Marine Corps Veteran. A private Prayer Service was held in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.ROTHFUNERAL.com.
Carol A. (nee DeFazio) Volk - 81, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away peacefully on November 3, 2022 at Schoellkopf Health Care Facility. Born in Niagara Falls, NY, she was the daughter of the late Frank and Ann (Badolato) DeFazio. On August 24, 1996, she married Thomas Volk, NFPD, Ret. at Trinity United Methodist Church in Grand Island, NY. In addition to her husband of 26 years, Carol is survived by her sons, Kevin (Lisa) Edwards and David Edwards; her step-son, Eric (Janet) Volk; her grandchildren, Erica Edwards, Vincent Edwards, Brittanee Ramallo, Jakob Ramallo, and Quinn Volk; her brother, Ron (late Kathy) DeFazio, as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, November 9 from 3 - 7 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY 14304, where funeral services will begin at 7 PM. Interment in Trinity United Methodist Cemetery, Grand Island, NY, will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to a charity of one's choice. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.
Ruth (nee Sander) Englert - of Grand Island passed away peacefully at the age of 93 on November 3, 2022. Beloved wife of the late Charles J. Englert, Sr. Devoted mother of Mary Beth Bush, Jay (Sandra), Michael F. (Elizabeth) and Margaret (Brendan) Conway. Proud grandmother of 14 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren; sister of Richard H. (Gale) Sander, Jean Kroetsch, the late Mary Elizabeth Sander RSM and Joseph H. Sander. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins and life long friends. Born in Buffalo, Ruth attended All Saints School and Mt. St. Joseph Academy, which helped formulate her deep faith and sense of community service, that she instilled in her family throughout the years. In her youth, CYO basketball was her passion, where she achieved high scorer in WNY. Ruth organized annual CYO ski trips to Lake Placid and continued the tradition in later years with family and friends. Ruth, with her late husband Charlie, helped form the original Grand Island Figure Skating Club. Her summers were spent playing tennis in her backyard and vacationing at her family cottage at Turkey Point where she has cherished the friendship of her Canadian neighbors for 93 years. While her life revolved around her family and their activities, she always found time to participate in multiple clubs and organizations; most recently, the Grand Island Historical and St. Stephen's Alter Societies. Ruth leaves us with many wonderful memories and traditions, and will always be remembered as "The Belle of the Ball." Friends may call Sunday, November 6, 4-8 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home 1950 Whitehaven Rd. Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday at St. Stephen's Church at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers memorials my be made to St. Stephen's Church. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Robert S. West - Of Grand Island, NY, age 81, passed peacefully at Elderwood, Grand Island, NY, on October 16, 2022. Husband of Nancy (nee Enser, Lesinski) West. Father of Dharold, Tracy (Gunny Robison) of Quincy, Florida and Stephen (Alyssa) West of Dalton, Massachusetts. Stepfather of Bonnie (Michael) Marino, David (Vicki Brandon) Lesinski Jr. and Justine (Ronald) Sorri, all of Grand Island. Grandfather of Joshua (Lindsey) West, Emily and Madelyn West. Step-grandfather of Marisa, Taylor, Michael Marino, Samantha, David Lesinski III, Allison, Jason Sorri USN. Great-grandfather of Ariana West. Bob is a US Army veteran. He is a UB Anatomical Gift Program donor. Private memorial services will be held at a later date.
Mark Frederick Doldan - Age 50, of Fort Lauderdale, FL, passed away on October 16, 2022. Originally a resident of Grand Island, Mark was a graduate of Grand Island High School and Niagara University. He is survived by his daughter, Liliana Camila Doldan; his parents, Frederico G. Doldan, M.D. and Kathleen M. Doldan; his siblings, Kevin (Sara) Doldan, Michael (Milinda) Doldan, D.O. and Caitlin Doldan; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. Visitation at Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, on Friday, October 28 from 5-8 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, on Saturday, October 29 at 9:30 AM. Please share condolences at www.Kaiserfuneral.com.
Laura Marie Bechtel - October 14, 2022, of Grand Island and Cheektowaga. Wife of Justin Hartmann; daughter of David Bechtel and Phyllis (James Faso Sr.) Bechtel; granddaughter of Ann and the late Phelix Smith and the late Fred and Jean Bechtel; niece of Doug (Linda) Smith, Debra (Scott) Bechtel and Diane Evert. Laura is also survived by loving cousins and her crew, Heidi, Kori, Mandi and Lindsey. Laura was a New York State corrections officer for 13 years. We will miss our precious Laura who enriched and made our lives better with her presence. She had the most beautiful smile that could light up your soul. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her and loved her. Friends may call Wednesday, October 19, 6-9 PM at Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island. Flowers greatly appreciated. Please share condolences at Kaiserfuneral.com.
S. Mario DeBole - Of Grand Island, formerly of Newman, GA, died on October 15, 2022. Mario was born in Batavia to Mario DeBole and Belle Gervase and is survived by his sister Phyllis (Robert) Holway. He was raised in Geneseo, NY. He graduated from Geneseo Central High School in 1950 and in 1953 he received a B.A. Degree from SUNY Geneseo. From 1953-1955 Mario served in the U.S. Army at Fort Devans, Mass where he developed an Educational Achievement Program for illiterate career soldiers. For this he was awarded the First Amy Citation. In 1957 Mario graduated from Penn State University with a MS in Audiology. Prior to accepting his position as Director of Audiology at the Rochester Hearing and Speech Center, Mario spent two months in Chile, SA as a representative for the Genesee Co. "Experiment in International Living." In 1959, Mario accepted a position as Administrative Director at the Buffalo Hearing and Speech Center. In this capacity, he held appointments in the Allied Medical Staff at Sisters Hospital and served as Chief of Audiology at both ECMC and Buffalo General Hospital. Mario was also appointed Adjunct Professor of Audiology at Buffalo State College and served as Clinical Assistant Professor of Otolaryngology at University of Buffalo, School of Medicine. Mario was co-founder of Industrial Hearing Conservation Corp. and Audiological Biomedical and Educational Instruments Co. and pioneered in the establishment of audiological practice in Western New York. In 1995, he retired from his position as Director of the Buffalo Hearing and Speech Center to establish his private practice "Audiology Service Associates." His dedication to helping individuals reach their full potential manifested not only in his work but also at home where he and his wife Elizabeth raised five children, Mark (Tammy) DeBole, Nancy DeBole, John (Melissa) DeBole, Carolyn (Douglas) Sykes and Thomas (Nikki) DeBole. He and his wife of 58 years enjoyed traveling, cooking and visiting their 21 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday, Ocotber 20 at 9:30 AM at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Linda C. Schneckenburger - Of Grand Island, born October 11 1952, entered into rest October 8, 2022. Loving Mother of John (Tanya) and Melissa (Joseph). Grandmother to Kiana and Kathleen. Sister to the late Kathleen (Gary), Eileen (Frank), Elizabeth, the late Mary (Jack), Susanne (the late Raymond); also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins. She will be missed by many and loved always. Relatives and friends are invited to a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Stevens Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island on Saturday at 11 AM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Hospice Buffalo. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Douglas M. Scott - October 5, 2022, of Grand Island. Son of the late Sutherland and Margaret Scott; father of Kelly (Seth) Raby and Randall (Shelly) Scott; grandfather of Caydon Scott as well as the grandfather and great-grandfather to 10 Raby children; beloved twin brother of David E. Scott and brother of the late John Scott and Sally Burr. Also survived by many loving nieces, nephews and cousins. A graduate of Buffalo State College, Douglas loved his teaching career that spanned over 30 years in the North Tonawanda School District. He was a junior high school swim coach and enjoyed singing in the Buffalo Philharmonic Schola Cantorum in the late 60s. He loved classical music, skiing and golfing with his twin brother at the Niagara Frontier Country Club. He was a long term resident of Grand Island and loved his views over the Niagara River. His infectious smile, humor and sarcasm will always be treasured and missed by his family, friends, numerous former students and strangers who immediately became friends. Friends may call Tuesday, 3-7 PM, with a Celebration of Life at 5:30 PM at Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Niagara Hospice. Please share condolences at www.kaiserfuneral.com.
Jamie L. Reid - Of Grand Island, NY, passed away on Friday, September 30, 2022, in Kenmore Mercy Hospital. She was born in North Tonawanda, NY, on January 19, 1985, the daughter of Kevin L. and Carol L. (Wendt) Haseley. Jamie graduated from Niagara Wheatfield High School, Niagara County Community, Buffalo State and received her Master's Degree from Medaille University. She was the program director at Niagara County Community College Liberty Program for the past eight years. Jamie was actively involved with her children's activities, going to beauty pageants with her daughter and her son's sporting events. Jamie was a dedicated mother and wife who cherished her time with family and friends, She was a fun loving person who would light up the room and will be remembered for her outgoing personality. In addition to her parents, she is survived by her husband of nine years, Joshua Reid; her children Carter, Wesley and Vanessa Reid, a brother Jason (Alison) Haseley and was the sister-in-law of Aaron (fiancée Shannon Bradley) Reid and Karisa (Nick) Johnson; also many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. She was the daughter-in-law of the late Bruce Reid and Julia McGill. Her family will be present on Thursday from 3-8 PM at the RHONEY FUNERAL HOME, 5893 Hoover Road, SANBORN, NY. Jamie's Funeral Services will be held on Friday at 11:00 AM at St. Peter's Lutheran Church, 6167 Walmore Road, Sanborn, NY, with the Rev. Kurt Jensen officiating. Interment in St. Peter's Cemetery. Visit www.rhoneyfuneralhome.com, for guest register.
Robert G. "Bob" Helenbrook - Of Grand Island, NY, October 2, 2022. Son of the late Robert and Roberta Helenbrook; beloved husband of Marilyn (nee Fabozzi); brother of Doug (Carolyn); devoted father of Robert (Kay), Brian (Julie) and Kristen (Bill) Harding; loving grandfather of Evan, Andrew, Abby, Caroline; Charlie, Sam; and Will, Bryan, and Brooklyn. Visitation at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, on Wednesday, 4-8 PM. Relatives and friends are invited to a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island on Thursday, at 11 AM. Please assemble at Church. Those wishing may make donations to Roswell Cancer Center in Bob's memory. Bob retired as president of ATSI Engineering. He loved spending time with his grandkids and generously donated his engineering and construction skills to his family, friends, and community. Share memories and condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Juanita A. (nee Jarvis) Barry - Age 86, of Grand Island, NY, September 30, 2022. Loving wife of 66 years to William C. Barry, Jr.; mother of Deborah (David) Finn, Susan (Gary) Gleason and the late William C. Barry III, who died in 2020; sister of William Jarvis and Caron (Ray) Garcia; also survived by 10 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, October 4, 2022, from 4-7 PM at JOHN O. ROTH FUNERAL HOME, INC., 25 William St. (between Morgan and William Sts.), City of Tonawanda. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday, October 5, 2022, at 10 AM in St. Francis of Assisi Chapel, 71 Adam St., City of Tonawanda. Everyone welcome to attend. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo, 225 Como Park Blvd., Cheektowaga, NY 14227. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.ROTHFUNERAL.com.
Joanne H. (nee Rank) Urtel - Of Buffalo, NY, entered into rest peacefully on September 29, 2022, at the age of 88. Beloved wife of Robert E. Urtel; devoted mother of Diane (Allison) Urtel, Carolyn Koone, Julie (Richard) Fiato and the late Robert Urtel; precious fur mom of the late Daisy; cherished grandmother of Rachael (Tom Arnone) Koone, Daphne and Alexis Fiato; loving daughter of the late Cyril and Helen Rank; dear sister of the late Phyllis Stack, Cyril and Joseph Rank; revered cousin of Sandra Harcrow; adored friend of Sally Chase; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Joanne was a dedicated wife, mother and grandmother who loved her family endlessly. She graduated from Tonawanda High School in 1953 as a resident of Grand Island, NY. Later in life she studied communications and journalism at N.C.C. after raising her large family. Joanne worked in the Alumni Department at Canisius College and as a computer typist for the Buffalo News. Joanne enjoyed being a member of Sacred Heart Parish of Auburn Hills, Michigan, where she served as a Eucharistic minister and was a choir member under the Rev. James Mayworm. She was an avid animal lover and contributed to the SPCA. No prior visitation. Arrangements by LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northtowns Chapel), Amherst, NY. A private Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Stephen's Church with a private burial at Assumption Cemetery on Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, donations .
Lynne Vaine - September 21, 2022, age 80, resident of Grand Island. Loving wife of the late William Vaine. Beloved mother of Shawn (Dawn Heitman) Vaine and the late Holly (the late Robert Sr.) Rovison. She was a devoted grandmother to Robert Jr. and Matthew Rovison, Alyssa and Haylee. She was also predeceased by two brothers, Carl and Arthur Wolff; and a sister, Wende Wolff. Services will be private and at a later date. Share condolences at www.kaiserfuneral.co.
Scott William Hughes - age 58, of Conway, South Carolina passed away on Sunday, September 18, 2022. Born in Niagara Falls, New York on October 28, 1963 he was the son of the late Richard Hughes and Sandra Baird. Survivors include his loving wife of 29 years, Andrea Hughes; children, Sean Hughes (Jessica), Jeremy Hughes (Kayla), Megan Hughes; grandchildren, Ayden, Mason F., Jeremy Jr.; siblings, Amy Hughes, Susan Laux (David); Aunt, Missy Marcantonio (Frank); niece, Jennifer Argy; nephews, Glenn Martin, Mark Argy, Jr., Brian Argy; along with a very special friend, Kathleen Mercadante. Scott was preceded in death by his parents.
A laid back and easy going soul, Scott liked fishing, relaxing in his recliner and watching the Buffalo Bills play while enjoying chicken wings and a cold Bud Light. Scott cherished each moment spent with his beloved friends and family. He was loved by many and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. A celebration of life will be held at 12:00 pm on Tuesday, September 27, 2022 at Lee Funeral Home and Crematory. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service from 11:00 am – 12:00 pm. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.leefhandcrematory.com for the Hughes family. Lee Funeral Home and Crematory of Little River/North Myrtle Beach is serving the family.
Elizabeth A. (nee Harlow) Stafford - Of Grand Island, NY, formerly of Farmington, MI, September 24, 2022. Beloved wife of the late Gary E. Stafford; former wife of Barry W. Beals; dearest mother of Andrew S. Beals, Elleyne R. Beals (Mark) Kircher and Matthew A. (Cherrish) Beals; grandmother of Deanna Beals (Scott) Azevedo and Andrée Beals; also survived by great-grandchildren; daughter of the late Donald and Viola Y. (Webber) Harlow; sister of William (Barbara) Harlow, Patricia Rich and James (Une-he) Harlow; also survived by nieces and nephews. No prior visitation. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements by: ERIE COUNTY CREMATION SERVICE, 824-6435. Please share your condolences at: www.eriecountycremationservice.com.
Kathy "Beeb" Robinson Houck - There will be a celebration of life for Kathy "Beeb" Robinson Houck on Saturday, October 8th from noon - dusk at Beaver Island Marina Pavillion #8. Bring your own refreshments.
Margaret Ruth "Peggy" (nee Dee) Tyran - Age 86, died peacefully September 14, 2022 after a brief illness. Peggy was an avid reader, baker, and enjoyed working on crossword puzzles. She is survived by her sons: Michael V. (Susan), David J. (Michelle) and Douglas R. (Tina); granddaughters: Amanda (Paul), Alyssa, Amy (Chris), Crystal (John) and Kelly (Adel); and great-grandchildren: Alexander, Ava, Lucas, Lily, Aidan, Aaron, Evelynn and Adaline. She is survived by her siblings: Marion P. Habdo, Don (Colleen) Dee and Kathy (Larry) Prunotto; several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. She was predeceased by her parents John and Ruth Dee and her brother John "Bud". Friends may call Friday, September 23, 4-7 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Saturday, September 24, at 9:30 AM at St. Andrews R.C. Church, 1525 Sheridan Dr., Tonawanda, NY. Please assemble at church. In lieu of flowers, donations in Peggy's memory may be made to Niagara Hospice, 4675 Sunset Drive, Lockport, NY 14094. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Alfred R. Bykowicz - Aged 93, September 6, 2022, of Grand Island. Beloved husband of the late Dolores (nee Greaves) Bykowicz; devoted father of Barbara (William) Barbur, Carol (late John) Rae, late Diane Hassan, late Jeffrey, and Patricia (Thomas) Turner; proud grandfather of 14 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren. Son of the late Joseph and Florence (Sokolowski) Bykowicz. Loving brother of Gertrude (late Alojzy) Krol, late Eugene (Lucy), late Joseph (Estelle), Ann Marie (late Robert) Ratka, late Thomas (late Carol), late Norman, Patricia (Charles) Piosenka, and Robert; also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life Saturday, September 24th from 9 AM to 12 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in memory of Alfred to Hospice Buffalo. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Frances Fanara - Of Grand Island, NY, entered into rest September 14, 2022.Beloved wife of Libertino; devoted mother of Anthony (Jamie) Fanara, Jenna (John) Majewski and Joseph Fanara; cherished stepmother of Gina (Mike) O'Kussick; loving grandmother of Nina, Eva, Libby, Alaina, Henry, Charles, Danielle and Amber; dear great-grandmother of Charlee; revered daughter of the late Carmelo and Carmela Ponticello; treasured sister of Maria (late Richard) Spina and Carrie (Adriano) Broccolo; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends may visit LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Snyder Chapel), 4614 Main St., Snyder, NY, near Harlem Rd., on Sunday, September 18 from 3 - 8 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Stephen's R.C. Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, NY on Monday at 11 AM. Please assemble at church. Entombment Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Online condolences may be made at www.lombardofuneralhome.com.
Geraldine A. (nee Eldridge) Manzella - Of Grand Island, NY, entered into rest September 8, 2022. Beloved wife of 62 years to the late Louis Manzella, Jr.; cherished aunt of Beth (Frank) Lee, Kathleen (Tim) Brown and Michael (Jennifer) Eldridge; also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, family, caregivers (Tonya, Yedda, Natalia and Ekyjah) and friends. Relatives and friends may visit LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northtowns Chapel), 885 Niagara Falls Blvd., near Eggert, Amherst, NY on Tuesday, Sept. 13th from 11 AM - 1 PM, where a Prayer Service will immediately follow. Interment Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Online condolences at www.lombardofuneralhome.com
Carol M. (nee Macdonald) Ganster - Age 82, of Tonawanda, New York, on September 4, 2022. She passed away peacefully at home in the care of her daughter Carolyn and her family, in Hurst, Texas. Carol was born on Grand Island to the late William and Mable (nee Ott) MacDonald. She was one of nine daughters: Helen (late Wilfred) Haigh, Margaret (late Thomas) Lee, Wilma (late Glenford) Greenwood, Joyce (late Stuart) Neill, Leona (Truman) Stevens, Kathleen (late Dale) McKenzie, the late Marion Lebica, and the late Audrey (late Albert) Parker. Carol was a loving wife to the late Edward G. Ganster, who passed in 2015. Mother to Denise Boyer (late Bobby Dutton Jr.) of Niagara Falls and Carolyn Geisel Philips (Craig Philips) of Hurst, Texas. Cherished Mimi to Sarah (Robert) Cardamone, Carl, Mark (Emily), and Beth Geisel, and her great-grandchildren, Emily Peppard and Gracie Cardamone. She will be greeted by her beloved late cat, Rascal. Carol was the long-time secretary for Sugar Kake Cookie, Inc., until her retirement in 1998 and a lifelong Buffalo Bills fan, having gone to all four super bowls! Family and friends may call at Fretthold and Hamp Funeral Home, 37 Adam St., at Seymour St., in Tonawanda on Wednesday, Sept. 14th from 3-8 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Francis of Assisi Chapel at 73 Adam St. on Thursday at 11 AM. Memorials may be made to Saint Francis of Assisi R.C. Church in Carol's name. Condolences may be shared at www.FrettholdandHamp.com.
James M. Lojek - Of Grand Island, NY, September 2, 2022; beloved fiancé of Barbara J. Barton; devoted father of Brian and Janine (Peter) Krivejko; brother of Don (Cecelia) Lojek; also survived by nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. Friends may call Friday 4-8 pm at the LESTER H. WEDEKINDT, INC, FUNERAL HOME, 3290 Delaware Ave., where funeral services and Military Honors will be held Saturday at 10:30 am. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the SPCA. Share online condolences at www.lesterwedekindtfuneralhome.com.
Jeanette Beth (nee Richstatter) McGraw Wall - Of Grand Island, passed peacefully in her sleep on Sunday, September 4, 2022. Born to Joseph and Claire Richstatter of Kenmore in 1937. Spent summers as a Life Guard at Allegany State Park, graduated Kenmore East High School, and worked at Tops Supermarket on Grand Island. Jeanette enjoyed skiing and NASCAR. Preceded in death by her beloved husband, Michael Clark Wall; and sister Linda Marlak. Survived by daughter, Michelle McGraw of Brookline, MA; sons, Jim (Mindy) McGraw and Ted McGraw of Grand Island; and daughter, Karen (Patrick) Gendrue of Lancaster, PA; seven grandchildren, Sarah Grace Pavelchak, Alexandra Claire Boudreaux, Justin, Jordan, and Jarret McGraw, Adam Scott and Colton McGraw; six great-grandchildren, Logan and Evalyn Pavelchak, Dallas McGraw, Wyatt, Declan and Vera McGraw and Alana Scott; two nieces, Cheri Siegler and Kristin Caputo; and one nephew, Charles Marlak. Friends may call Saturday, 1-3 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Share condolences at www.kaiserfuneral.com.
Richard W. Smith - August 27, 2022, of Grand Island. Beloved husband of Annette Smith (nee Balsano). Predeceased by parents, Rebecca and Thomas W. Smith; and sister, Shirley Smith. Father of the late Thomas W. (Audrey) Smith, Robin (Jay) Tolbert, Richard S. (Jill) Smith and Leah (Brian) Brandon. Grandfather of Jonathan, Bradley, Jamilyn, Zachary, April, Cameron, Amber, Brianna and Devin. Great-grandfather of Maci, Zoie and Emma. He is also survived by many loving family members and friends.
Richard was a Marine Corps veteran, retired production manager at Mokon and founder of Vent-A-Kiln Corporation. He was an avid hunter and fisherman who enjoyed spending time with his family at his Southern Tier camp and spending winters at his Florida home. Friends may call Wednesday, August 31, from 3-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral Services will be held Thursday at 11 AM at Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Trinity United Methodist Church. Please share condolences at Kaiserfuneral.com.
Kathleen M. "Kat" (nee Wolfe) Shanor - Of Grand Island, entered into rest August 24, 2022. Beloved wife of the late James "Jimmy" Shanor. Daughter of the late Millard and Ruth (nee Moon) Wolfe. Loving mother of Candice and Kelly Bonilla. Stepmother of Thomas and Joseph Shanor. Grandmother of Madelyn Tout and Brantley Shanor. Sister of Warren (Dawn) Wolfe, Jane Guthrie and Jody (Robert) Davisson. Friend of Jill Beauregard. Survived by many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. A celebration of Kat's life will be held at a later date. Please share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Peter W. Beyer, Sr. - Loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away in Florida at age 74 on August 19, 2022. Pete was a longtime resident of Grand Island, NY before moving to Englewood, FL in 1992. He was born in Buffalo, New York to the late Andrew J., III and Phyllis J. (Colicchia) Beyer and was preceded in death by his beloved daughter Tracey Lee Busch (Beyer), stepmother Rhada Wiedemer-Beyer and mother-in-law Kathryn “Betty” O’Dea.
Pete had a successful career as a highly skilled HVAC technician. He never lived far from the water and always enjoyed boating and spending time on the river or the beach. He was an avid tinkerer and collector who thoroughly enjoyed time spent in his garage and workshop. Pete knew his way around the kitchen too and his homemade spaghetti sauce was second to none. Pete’s gentle spirit, kindness and compassion made him a magnet for dogs and people alike. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him.
He is survived by his wife Mary J. Kane-Beyer (O’Dea); 1 son: Peter Beyer, Jr. (Liz) of Sanborn, NY; 2 stepsons: Thomas Kane, III of Brandon, FL and Scott Kane (Astrid) of Watford City, ND; 3 brothers: Andrew, IV of Buffalo, NY, Christopher (Sandra) of Grand Island, NY, Russell (Lizzie Padro) of Miami, FL; along with many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and dear friends.
His ashes will be interred on September 10th at 11:00 a.m. in the columbarium at St. Stephen Cemetery on Grand Island. Family and friends are welcome to attend. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Pete are invited to make a memorial contribution to a charitable organization dedicated to Parkinson’s Disease or Heart Disease to bring hope and healing to others who are suffering. An online guest registry can be found at https://obituaries.nationalcremation.com the National Cremation Society website.
Maureen K. O’Donnell - longtime resident of Grand Island, NY, passed away peacefully on August 22, 2022 at age 90. Raised in Tonawanda, talented in music and academics, Maureen attended Mount St. Mary Academy and then entered the Sisters of St. Mary Namur for five years as Sister Francis Joseph. Later as a wife and mother she raised and loved five children; Edward (Cindy Tucker) Graesser, Daniel Graesser, Mary (Bryant) Pfalzer, John Graesser, the late Monica Graesser, and grandchild Justin Graesser. She was loving grandmother to James and Patrick Bishop, Justin Graesser, and Matthew Graesser. She is survived by her sister Theresa Hulub and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents Daniel and Mary E. O’Donnell (nee McConville). Her late siblings were Margaret M. O’Donnell, Elizabeth O’Connell, Patricia Zengl, Daniel F. O’Donnell, and Joseph O’Donnell.
Maureen was Asst. to Dir. of Human Genetics at SUNYRF. She attended Canisius College and subsequently graduated with her Bachelors from SUNY Empire State College. Since the 1970s she was a devoted instructor of adult physical fitness and water aerobics, and was a certified lifeguard. She led classes of exercise at the Tonawanda Aquatics Center well into her eighties. She taught herself many sports and competed as a senior athlete in swimming and race walking. She won numerous medals in Empire State Games and in national meets. She was an avid skier and skied the world with Bell Ski Club and UB’s Schussmeisters.
She was a devoted parishioner at St. Stephens Church of Grand Island. The family is forever grateful for the loving home and upbringing she provided for them on Grand Island. Visitation will be at the Lombardo Funeral Home, 885 Niagara Falls Blvd, Amherst on Sunday Aug. 28th from 3 to 7 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday Aug. 29th at 9:30 AM, at St. Stephen’s RC Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island NY. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association or Hospice Buffalo.
Patrick J. Leach - GIHS CLASS OF 1968 - was born on November 1, 1950 in Buffalo, New York, and he was raised in Grand Island, New York. After living in many cities primarily on the west coast, Pat spent the last several decades of his life in Portland, Oregon. Following his diagnosis of brain cancer in April, 2022, he moved to Vancouver, Washington to live with his partner of 14 years, Linda Anglin. He died on July 16, 2022 in Vancouver. In addition to his partner Linda, Pat is survived by his brother, Joseph Leach of Grand Island. His parents Mary (Pachter) Leach and Joseph M. Leach preceded him in death.
After graduating from Cornell University in 1972, Pat earned his Master’s Degrees from Washington State University in Sociology (1978) and Education (1980). Pat’s work history included teaching, technical writing, and directing a small university agricultural institute. In his early fifties he realized that he was happiest working outdoors and with his hands, and he started earning his living doing gardening and caring for clients’ yards. This allowed him time to pursue his more creative interests of writing poetry and painting. Pat self-published many books of poetry and art, which can be found under his name on Amazon and also on his website: patleachartist.com.
Betty M. (nee Holmes) Pachter - August 18, 2022, of Grand Island. Beloved Wife of the late Richard Pachter. Beloved Aunt of Bruce (Diane) Roche, Paul Roche, the late Walter Surdej, Mary Leach and Rita Felschow. A Memorial Mass will be held Thursday, August 25th at 9:30 AM at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island. Please share condolences at Kaiserfuneral.com.
Charles W. Pembleton - 71, of Grand Island entered into rest on July 3, 2022 in Fort Myers, FL. Devoted husband of 49 years to Diane (Senn) Pembleton. Loving father of Corrine (Peter) Urshel, Kelly (Anthony) Rastelli, and Sharlene Pembleton. Grandfather to Daniel, Jonathan, James, Alexandra, Jacob, Austin, Arieanna, Hailey, and Jada. Son of the late Charles and Ruth (Schmitt) Pembleton. Dear brother of the late David (late Karen) Pembleton, Normajean (Joseph) Andrzejewski, and Robert Pembleton. Uncle to many nieces and nephews. Charles was a US Navy veteran, a retired crane operator, and an avid sports fan. No prior visitation, but friends and family are welcome to attend a Celebration of Life service that will be held on Saturday, August 27, 2022, 1:00 pm, at Bible Fellowship Church, 1136 Baseline Rd, Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Bible Fellowship Church or the VFW on Grand Island.
Johann "Hannes" Samland - August 15, 2022, of Grand Island. Beloved husband of 64 years of Christa Samland. Devoted father of Teresa Doermer, Susan (Per) Karlsen and Kenneth (Dawn) Samland. Also survived by nine cherished grandchildren and two cherished great-grandchildren. Loving son of the late Bernhard and Agathe Samland. Dear brother of seven siblings. Friends may call Friday, August 26, 4-7 PM and Saturday, August 27, 10 AM-12 Noon at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, followed by Memorial Services, Saturday at 12 Noon. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Donald Albert Nizialek - 81, of Grand Island, passed away August 16, 2022 at Buffalo General Hospital surrounded by his loving family. Born July 20, 1941 in Buffalo, he was the son of the late Leo and Frances "Peggy" Nizialek of Buffalo. Don has been a resident of Grand Island for 54 years. He graduated from Riverside High School in 1958. Don was married to his late wife, Dorothy (Bozek) on April 18, 1964. She passed away December 2, 2008. Don began his very active retirement in 2009. He was an avid boater and fisherman and was the family handyman. Survivors include his children, Darcy (Chuck Berlinger Jr.) Williams of Grand Island, Darilyn (Ed Sewastynowicz) Scheuing of Grand Island and Derek (Ana) Nizialek of Wellington, FL; five grandchildren, Zachary and Taylor Scheuing, Nicholas (Grace) Lovetro all of Grand Island, Gabriela (Fernando) Rodriguez and Kalista Nizialek of Wellington, FL; one great-granddaughter, Ivan Lalata; his sister-in-law, Annette (Tonia) (late Marion) Laszewski of Niagara Falls; and his brother-in-law, Matthew (late Megan) Bozek Jr of Grand Island. Friends may call Friday 3-7 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday at 9:30 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Contributions in his memory may be made at woudedwarriorproject.org. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Mark Dewey Stone - 61, passed away unexpectedly on August 12, 2022 in Grand Island, New York. He was born October 6, 1960 to Richard and Dolly (Domenichelli) Stone in Northfield, Vermont. He was a graduate of Northfield High School Class of 78 and Middlebury College Class of 82. Mark’s greatest love was his daughter Taylor, which was evident when he talked about her. They traveled and attended many events, he would do anything for her (his favorite was a Jonas Brothers concert). He had a strong sense of family which never wavered, even as he developed relationships all around the country. He was active keeping up with his fellow classmates from the banks of the old Dog River, as well as his Middlebury family. He enjoyed time visiting family and friends in Colorado. He was most comfortable enjoying pre and post game tailgates with his Green Bay Packer family (#4Forever). He enjoyed boating around Grand Island, blowing a horn to let friends know it was him. He even invented the Root Beer Float! Mark took great pleasure in hosting people, whether it be at his home, a sporting event, or a trip. He lived life to its fullest, was full of antics, but had a heart of gold. Words cannot adequately capture Markie, he was everywhere.
Mark is survived by his daughter Taylor, and her partner Daniel; father Richard; siblings Ella Stone, Brenda Dole, Cindy (Jim) Willis, Rick (Kim) Stone, Scott Stone, Rhonda (Seth) Achilles and Gretchen (Doug) Kindig; along with nieces and nephews Christopher (Sarah), David (Nicky), Amy (Jason), Brendan, Kaelin (Angelo), Kelsey, Andrew, Brady, Collin and Quinn. He is predeceased by mother Dolly, nephew Gregory, and brother in law Tim.
A gathering in his memory will take place in Grand Island on Friday August 19th. A celebration of his life will take place in Vermont at a later date. In lieu of flowers or donations, please honor Mark the way he lived life, spending time with family and friends, and raise a glass with fond memories.
Kurt M. Villani - Age 72, of Grand Island, NY, passed away on August 6, 2022 at his residence surrounded by his loved ones. Kurt was the son of the late Guido J. and Lorraine (Burns) Villani, born in Niagara Falls, NY on March 26, 1950. Kurt was a graduate of LaSalle High School, and joined the Army National Guard. On December 20, 1969, he married Gail A. (Zaleski) Villani. He operated Gui's Lumber/Ace Hardware with his wife, Gail since the mid-1980's. Along with his wife and children, the business has grown to seven locations throughout Western New York. Kurt enjoyed boating and cars, but his favorite pastime was spending time with his family, especially his four grandchildren that he liked to refer to as "his little buddies." In addition to his wife of 52 years, Kurt is survived by his son, Kurt P. (Monica) Villani; daughter, Amie (Rob) Ceccato; four grandchildren, Mia Villani, Kurt P. Villani, Jr., Anthony Ceccato, and Joseph Ceccato; his siblings, Robert R. (Sandee) Villani, Larry J. (Bonnie) Villani, James M. (Judy) Villani, Lorraine (late Nicholas) Pullano, and Elaina (Patrick) Stoness; as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins, and his family at Gui's Lumber. Kurt's Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, August 13, at 11 AM at St. Stephen's Roman Catholic Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island, NY 14072. In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to the Niagara Falls Boys' and Girls' Club, 725 17th St., Niagara Falls, NY 14301 or to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, https://wish.org/. Arrangements by M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.
Anthony J. Federio - August 3, 2022, of Grand Island, NY, age 89. Beloved husband of Prudence (nee Fazio) Federio. Devoted father of Joseph (Maria) Federio, Annette Federio, Lisa (Lt. Col. James, USA Ret.) Thorpe and the late Anthony T. Federio. Cherished grandfather of nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Loving son of the late Joseph and Carmela Federio. Dear brother of Virginia (late Edward) Marshall, Antoinette (late Russell) LaDuca, Mary (late Donald) Tyson, Philip Federio, MD, Ellen DeMatteo and the late Jane (late Donald) Smith. Brother-in-law of Andrea Lannigan. Also survived by over one hundred nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews and great-great-nieces and nephews. Family will be present on Sunday from 1-6 p.m. at the (Tonawanda Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 2600 Sheridan Dr. (at Parker Blvd.). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday in St. Christopher Church, 2660 Niagara Falls Blvd., at 9:30 a.m. Please assemble at church. Interment Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Tony was a Navy Veteran of the Korean War, a retired Vice President of Production and Control at HFW Industries, and the consummate host ready to prepare and share food and drinks at anytime. Flowers gratefully declined. If desired, contributions may be made to the Scleroderma Foundation of WNY www.scleroderma.org or Hospice Buffalo, Inc., 225 Como Park Blvd., Cheektowaga, NY 14227. Share online condolences at www.AMIGONE.com.
Sharon A. (nee Lesniewski) Tanchak - July 30, 2022; beloved wife of 51 years to Andrew S. Tanchak; dearest mother of Jeffrey (Michele) Tanchak and Kimberly (Michael) Vessa; devoted grandmother to Allison, Nicholas, and Emily; dear sister of Richard (Kolleen) Lesniewski; dear aunt of Krista and Richard. No prior visitation. Family and friends are invited to celebrate a Mass of Christian Burial Monday, August 15th at 9:30 AM from St. Stephen Church, 2100 Baseline Road Grand Island, NY. Please assemble at church. To join the family via live stream, please log on to www.ststephenwny.com If so desired, donations in Sharon's memory may be made to the SPCA serving Erie County. Arrangements by the GRECO Funeral Home. Share condolences online at www.GRECOFUNERAL.com.
Barbara (nee Hildebrant) Johnson - Of Grand Island, NY, August 1, 2022. Beloved wife of the late George E. Johnson; dear mother of Scott (Bonnie), Mark (Brenda) and Timothy (Wendy) Johnson; loving grandmother of Lisa Marie, Jordan, Janelle, Dylan and Gregory; sister of the late Howard (late Alva), Marilyn (late Ted) Eulert, Violet MacPhee, Lois Downing, Sam (late Kay) and Gordon (Mary) Hildebrant. Friends may call Friday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the Lester H. Wedekindt, Inc., Funeral Home, 3290 Delaware Ave. Relatives and friends are invited to attend Funeral Services on Saturday at 11 AM at Zion United Church of Christ, 15 Koeing Circle, Tonawanda, NY. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Zion UCC. Please share condolences at www.lesterwedekindtfuneralhome.com.
Lawrence J. Prosser - age 74 of Gainesville, passed away, Friday July 29, 2022 at the East Side Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Warsaw. Larry was born in Niagara Falls, March 11, 1948 a son of the late James B. and Jeanette H. Radziszewski Prosser. Larry graduated from LaSalle High School in 1966 and went on to attend Trott Vocational. He served his apprenticeships as both a Millwright and Welder and then continued to work for Good Year Tire and Rubber in Niagara Falls where he retired in 2003 after thirty years. Larry was a hard working man that was dedicated to his loving family. He enjoyed all things outdoors, to include hunting, fishing, camping and shooting sports. Larry was a member of the Silver Springs United Methodist Church. He was known to be quite the practical joker but also a great mentor to his boys. He was so very proud of their accomplishments.
Larry was preceded by his son, Kevin Prosser in 2011, and a brother in-law, Walter Putaski. Survivors include his beloved wife of 49 years, Joanne K. Akin Prosser, whom he married on October 7, 1972. Also surviving are his son, Michael (Melanie) Prosser of Depew, a sister, Patricia Putaski of Saratoga, NY, two grandchildren, Gianna Prosser and Dakota Walker both of Saratoga, close friends, Patricia Arbutina of Orangeville, Rod Bergeron of Niagara Falls, several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Friends of Lawrence J. Prosser may call at the Weeks Funeral Home 123 N. Main Street Warsaw, NY 14569 on Wednesday, August 10, 2022 from 10 to 11am followed by a memorial service beginning at 11am conducted by Reverend Gene Parker. Burial will follow in the Elmwood Cemetery in Silver Springs beside his son. Please visit www.weeksfuneral.com to offer condolences. Memorial contributions are requested in Larry's name to the Gainesville Rescue Squad at PO Box 353 Gainesville, NY 14066.
Viola A. (nee Dockstader) Liddell - July 29, 2022, of Grand Island. Beloved wife of the late Richard M. Liddell. Loving mother of Heather (Rodney) Haynes. Cherished grandmother of Owen, Aidan and Gavin Haynes. Daughter of the late Garfield and Malerne Dockstader. Sister of the late Neal, John and Gerald Dockstader, Shirley Longboat, Amy Hallmets and Danny Staats. Also survived by several nieces, nephews and cherished friends. Friends may call Sunday 3-6 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, where Funeral Services will be held Monday at 11 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Niagara Hospice or Shriners Hospital in Erie, PA. Mrs. Liddell was a proud member of the Daughters of the Nile and The Order of the Eastern Star. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Barry C. “The Bear Man” Conway - July 24, 2022, age 59 of Grand Island, NY. Loving son of M. Therese and the late Francis “Frank” J. Conway; dear brother of Robert “Bob”, Francis “Frank” (Patricia) and the late James “J.C.” and Janice Conway; cherished uncle of Cody Conway, Makana Aranda, Dylan, Colin and the late Heather Ann Conway; loving companion of Donna Monaco; former spouse and cherished friend of Winanne Whiting Conway. Visitation JAMES E. GRACE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 335 Ontario St., Friday, August 12th from 4:00 – 6:30 PM (funeral prayers at 6:30 PM).
Helena "Babe" Tuite - Born September 20, 1921 in Chicago, IL. Passed away on July 14, 2022, in Estero, FL; formerly of Grand Island and Williamsville, NY. Survived by daughters, Jackie O'Reilly and Marilyn Gray of Florida; son, David from Dallas, TX; also survived by numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Anthony R. Kay - PHILADELPHIA, NY - 66, formerly of Theresa, died peacefully on July 7, 2022 at his home. He was born on August 31, 1955 in Buffalo, NY to the late Robert Edward & Anna (Rados) Kay. He served in the United States Army from 1974-1976 as a heavy equipment operator. He was employed by the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office in the earlier part of his life.
He is survived by several children; Abigail (Benjamin) Champagne, of Evans Mills and their children Bentley & Braelynn and Colten; and four sons, Anthony Kay, Scott Kay, Patrick Kay and Aaron Kay; along with several siblings, Melodie (Kay) Knudsen, Arlene M. Kay, James (Jay) Secord, and Heather (Ray) Guinther.
Anthony loved Nascar, camping and traveling, he was very social, and enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. He loved putting together model cars. He often spent time tinkering with mechanics and enjoyed taking apart old cars and rebuilding them. Services will be held privately by his family, he will be buried alongside his family in Buffalo, New York. Arrangements are entrusted to the Lundy Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Inc. located at 500 State Street, Carthage, NY 13619.
Lenora (nee Marshall) Carroll - June 24, 2022, of Grand Island. Loving mother of Roger (Deborah) Carroll, Deborah (Sandy) Tirado and James (Judith) Carroll. Grandmother of Colleen (David) Nossavage, Laura (Timothy) Schmidt, Kevin (Mandy) Carroll, Dennis (Amy) Carroll, Maureen (Matthew) Fox, James Ryan Carroll, Allison (Greg) Jarret and Sean (Hannah) Carroll. Great-grandmother to 14 children ages 2 to 25. Lenora is also survived by many nieces and nephews. A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd. on Monday, July 11 at 9:30 AM. Memorials may be made in her name to St. Stephen's Altar and Rosary Society, Niagara Hospice or DePaul.org/donate.
br> Marilyn Frances (nee Pawlowski) Kogut - November 29, 2020, age 78. Beloved wife of Michael V. Kogut; loving mother of Julie Kogut, Jennifer Lewis, Amy (Ryan) O'Neill and Michelle (Scott) Bane; cherished grandmother of 10 grandchildren; devoted daughter of the late Eugene Z. and Julia (nee Zawacki) Pawlowski; dear sister of the late Anthony C. Pawlowski, DDS. Marilyn was a dedicated educator, teaching French to Grand Island High School students and guiding many of them on annual tours of France and Italy. There will be no prior visitation. Arrangements by the AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, July 18, 2022 from St. Stephen Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island at 9:30 AM. Family and friends are asked to please assemble at the church. Mass is available to be seen via Live Streaming at https://www.facebook.com/St-Stephens-RC-Church-103326411323023. If desired, memorials may be made in Marilyn's memory to Cure Sanfilippo Foundation, PO Box 6901, Columbia, SC 29260 or online at www.CureSFF.org, or to SADS Foundation (Sudden Arrhythmia Death Syndrome) at sads.org. Please visit Marilyn's Tribute Page at www.AMIGONE.com to share memories and condolences.
Alexander D. "AJ" Jennings - Age 22, actor and athlete, August 3, 1999 - July 5, 2022. Alex "AJ" Jennings was living his dream on the set of Netflix's 'Outer Banks' and on the beaches of Charleston, SC. After leaving July 4th festivities, AJ was struck and killed by a hit-and-run driver as he walked along a Charleston road. He died shortly thereafter from injuries sustained in the crash.
Alex was a Grand Island resident and 2017 graduate of Grand Island High School, where he was an accomplished athlete in football, lacrosse, and track and field. He was a tireless sprinter and diver with the Piranha's Swim Club, and finished 2nd in the 2016 NYS Section 6 Pentathlon Finals. AJ was voted to have the 'Most Contagious Laugh' by his graduating class. AJ was then recruited to SUNY Buffalo State College, where he was a Communications major and defensive back for the Bengals football team. During Summer 2018, he began training with Vogue Models & Talent in Toronto, and private drama coaching with Frank Rossi Studios in Buffalo. He was soon offered small roles in Buffalo, NYC and Atlanta, including Succession, Marry Me and Trial of The Chicago 7. After his 2nd year at Buff State, he was granted a leave of absence to pursue career opportunities, and relocated to Atlanta. There he was offered small parts in Stranger Things, Cobra Kai, and Monarch, among others. Upon accepting the opportunity on Outer Banks, he relocated to Charleston, SC in April, 2022.
Survivors include Alex's mother, Dr. LuJean Jennings; a sister, Katlyn; a brother, Nicholas; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Candlelight vigils were held this weekend on Folly Beach by his Charleston friends, and in Atlanta by his acting community friends. Private burial services on Grand Island will be attended by the family, and a future Celebration of Life Service will be arranged for friends and all who loved Alex. Please share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Margaret K. (McMahon) Prange - age 82 of Panama City, FL, was born in Buffalo, New York on April 30, 1940 and joined her Heavenly Father on Thursday, June 30, 2022. She was a substitute teacher at Huth Road School and teacher in the City of Tonawanda, NY before moving to Panama City, Fl. She retired from Gulf District Schools as a school psychologist and teacher in 2010. Margaret was an active member of Panama City First Assembly of God where she taught Sunday School, GED classes, and helped with the after school tutoring program. Above all, she was a prayer warrior and would fervently pray for family and friends every morning when she had “coffee with Jesus”.
Some life stories take a 1000 pages to tell; for others, there are only a few words left on a headstone. And still some, like Marge Prange, life can be summed up in a word. Her word was Believer. All who knew her knew that she believed deeply in God and his Son, Jesus, and from that so many other beliefs sprang. Marge didn’t simply encourage people who crossed her path; she BELIEVED in them. She believed in her students more than they believed in themselves. She believed her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the smartest, cutest, very best kids that ever graced the earth. And, she was right. She believed that when she brought Karen, Carol and Paul into the world, she had improved planet earth exponentially. Marge believed in herself, too. Through a teaching degree, and then at 50, a Master’s Degree in School Psychology, she believed she could, and she did. Those who knew and loved her most, said she believed in the power of kindness, the ability to see the best in everyone, and the power of letting go and beginning again. She also believed if you were a friend, you were family. Marge Prange believed in, or believed for each of us who were graced to know her.
Brother of Peter, Danny McMahon (Sue), Sharon Tokash, Molly Powers, Patty Jo Phillips, Bridget Anderson (Rich), Mike McMahon (Denise) and Chris McMahon (Kris). Sister in law Mary McMahon. Children, Karen Shiver (Glynn), Carol Holmes, Paul Prange (Lisa); Vanessa Pate, step son Gary Prange (Janet). Grandchildren Caitlin Turner, Victoria Gerber (Bryce), Robyn McCorvey (Beau), Jesse Roberson (Kristen Thursby), Richard Prange, Ethan Prange, Robert Prange, and Adam Prange. Great grandchildren Teagan McCorvey and Annabeth Gerber. Lots and lots of nieces and nephews. Margaret was preceded in death by her parents Thomas and Margaret McMahon, brother Thomas McMahon Jr, brother Joe McMahon, sister in law Fran McMahon and brother in law Rolland Powers.
A visitation will be held at Panama City First Assembly of God on Tuesday, July 5, 2022 from 6:00 – 8:00 pm CST. Funeral Services will be held Wednesday, July 6, 2022.
Kenneth E. Lewis - July 2, 2022 of Grand Island. Husband of Marilyn J. (nee Maurer) Lewis. Father of Laura (John Tommasulo Jr.) Lewis Mason and Jodi (the late Mark) Fishel. Grandfather of Alexandra Imperi and Christian Mason. Brother of Jean (Alton) Derick, Anita (the late Karl) Derick, Stephen (Mary) Lewis, Donald (the late Wanda) Lewis, LeRoy (Mary Beth) Lewis, Janice (James) Raisch, Leslie (Luanne) Lewis and the late Mary Mericle, James (the late Kaz) Lewis and Robert (survived by wife Janice) Lewis. Son of the late Edward and Nora Lewis. Also survived by the ever loyal Lacey and many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Thursday 2-4 & 7-9 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Buffalo Pug & Small Breed Rescue or Trinity United Methodist Church where funeral services will be held Friday at 11 AM. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Robert A. Conta - Age 83, of Grand Island, US Air Force Veteran, June 26, 2022. Husband of Patricia L. (nee Roberts) Conta; father of William E. (JoAnne), MaryLynn (William Kupfer), Jonathan E. (Jennifer) and the late Robert S. and Andrew T. Conta; also survived by nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren; son of the late John J. and Frances (nee Cerne) Conta. A Mass of Christin Burial will be celebrated Thursday, June 30th at 9:30 AM at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. Interment will be in St. Stephen's Cemetery. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
William R. Baetzhold - April 16, 2022. A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, July 3, 2022 at 3:00 PM at the Grand Island Moose Lodge, 2524 Grand Island Blvd., Grand Island. Bill will be laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery.
Joycine I. Perone - June 25, 2022, of Grand Island. Mother of Marie (Gregory) Mergel, Dean (Alison) Felschow, Mark (Tammy) Felschow and John Felschow. Also survived by numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Sister of Mary Donna Felschow and the late Jack Perone. Daughter of the late John and Filomena Perone. Friends may call Tuesday, June 28th, 4-8 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, where Funeral Services will be held Wednesday at 10 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Share condolences at www.kaiserfuneral.com.
Vincent Raymond Kenney - (August 28, 1936), of Arlington Heights, Illinois (formerly of Grand Island, NY) died peacefully on June 20, 2022, surrounded by family under hospice services. Beloved husband of Judie Kenney, father of Brian (Lisa) Kenney, Marijane (Tim) Smith of Grand Island, NY. Stepfather of Victoria (Jim) Sawma and Michele (Tim) Threlkeld. Grandfather of Emma and Evan Smith, Juliana and Chloe Sawma (predeceased), Timothy, Adam, and Laura Threlkeld.
Originally from Rossport, Ontario, son of the predeceased Raymond and Josephine Kenney, survived by brothers Danny, Joseph (late Dorothy) and Eddie Kenney and sister Colleen Kenney (late Lauri). Also survived by several nieces nephews and family members and friends. Donations may be gifted to Journey Care (hospice) of Arlington Heights, Illinois or tribute gift to the Parkinson’s foundation https://www.parkinson.org. A Private family Celebration of life will be held at a future date.
Honorable Sybil E. Kennedy - A memorial Mass Celebrating the life of the Honorable Sybil E. Kennedy will be held on Saturday, July 2, 2022, at 9:30 A.M. St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd, Grand Island. All are welcome.
John J. Hess - April 28, 2022, of Grand Island. Husband of Sandra Buell Hess and the late Marilyn K. (nee Jacobi) Hess; father of Kathleen A. Jimenez, Susan L. (Eric) Berger, Mark (Gail) and Robert (Nadia) Hess; stepfather of Scott (Georgi) Kassy and Douglas (Kristen) Buell; also survived by 10 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren; brother of Georgia Cusack and the late Mary Elizabeth Rapp. Friends may call Friday, June 24, 4-7 PM, at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, June 25, at 9:30 AM, at St. Stephen's Church. Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association. John was a Veteran of the US Navy and was the owner and operator of Buffalo Loading Docks. He was a member of the LaSalle Yacht Club and Past Commodore of the Buffalo Launch Club. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Dr. Robert P. Harper - passed away unexpectedly on June 4, 2022 while on a fishing trip surrounded by family and friends. Dr. Harper was a husband, father, brother, friend, mentor and leader. He was born August 25, 1944 to Ruth and Paul V. Harper of Grand Island, NY. He is survived by his wife, Christie; Children: Beau (Heather), Thomas, Scott, Paul (Janet), and Chris; Siblings: Carol Rolfe (Harold), Paul (Donna), and Margaret (Dave); Grandchildren: Maya, Carissa, Patrick, Leah, Bethany, Daniel, Jonathan, Jade, and Grey; as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Dr. Harper attended Riverside High School and joined the United States Army upon graduation. He became an officer while pursuing his bachelor’s degree in biology at Ohio State University. After obtaining his degree, he continued to serve as a captain and general's aide during the Vietnam War. After completing his service, he attended Ohio State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, earning his degree in 1974. He returned to Grand Island, NY where he and his business partner founded a group of veterinary practices, now known as Buffalo Veterinary Group.
Dr. Harper was a consummate family man who was always willing and available to help, love, and support anyone who needed it. He was a mentor to many, always willing to provide advice, tell a story or lend his opinion. He dedicated his life to veterinary medicine and providing great care to all pets. As a leader in the veterinary field he was known for his surgical expertise. He loved hunting and fishing and spent his last days on the French River, a fishing retreat he had been going to for over 60 years. Services will be private and held for the immediate family. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Pet Emergency Fund (www.petemergencyfund.org) or Shriners Hospitals for Children (https://www.shrinerschildrens.org/).
Paul Charles Ringler - Age 50, of Grand Island, NY, May 11, 2022. Son of Kathy M. (nee Fitzgerald) Ringler and the late Robert J. Ringler who died in 2020; brother of Dennis W. Ringler; uncle of Brennan (Corey) Stalker; great-uncle of Julian, Jordan and Logan; also his dearest friends James Robinson, Hugo Ammand, Katy Parrish, Mishelle Kennedy, Sean and Rich Andrade; also survived by aunts, uncles and cousins. Paul was a 1991 graduate of Grand Island High School and was a U.S. Army Veteran, serving as an Army Medic in Alaska. No prior visitation. A private Prayer Service will be held in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Memorial contributions in memory of Paul may be made to VA Medical Center, Buffalo, NY. Condolences may be shared at www.ROTHFUNERAL.com.
Bruce G. Wojick, Sr. - of Grand Island, passed away at home peacefully surrounded by his loving family on June 5, 2022. Survived by his dearest soul-mate and wife of 25 years, Rosemary (nee Conaway). Son of the late Marian and Jeanette Wojick. Beloved father of Bruce (Cindy) Wojick, Matthew (Julie) Wojick, Jessica (Maria Rosa) Wojick, Mark (Mikaela) Wojick and Joshua (Leah) Wojick. Dearest step-father of Michelle (Thomas Brown) Mulvena, Michael (Michele) Mulvena and Denise (Aaron) Clause. Greatest Papa/Grampa Bruce of Benjamin, Leah, Michael Jr., Emily, Vito, Alexandrea, Mia, Liam, Austin, Brennan, Maxwell and Grace. Predeceased by grandchildren Cameron and Keagan. Many other family members and friends will miss Bruce deeply.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Stephen’s Church 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island Monday June 20 at 9:30 AM. The family will receive condolences at the church prior to Mass. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bruce’s name to the DeGlopper Memorial Foundation c/o Charles DeGlopper Memorial VFW Post 9249 or the St. Jude’s Children Hospital.
Bruce was employed by Niagara Falls Public Schools, retiring as a special education teacher at Gaskill Middle School after 28 years. Bruce’s true passion was as a US Custom and Border Protection Agent (later as an Agent for US Homeland Security) for 17 years where he received many accommodations for his service. He was very active in the Charles N. DeGlopper VFW Auxiliary where he was the treasurer for the organization for many years. Recently he participated with the VFW’s Honor Guard and played taps during all services. Bruce loved being outdoors spending time fishing and hunting. On most days you could find Bruce sitting outside on his porch looking out over the river and keeping an eye on activities in the neighborhood. Visiting Bruce meant that you would be greeted with the soft sounds of jazz music playing in the background, and if one of his favorite songs came on you were required to get up and dance with him! Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Shirley R. McNulty - 74, of Niagara Falls, passed away on March 5, 2022, at Eastern Niagara Hospital in Lockport, NY. Daughter of the late Michael J. and Patricia M. McNulty from Staley Rd. Shirley is survived by long time companion James “Jim” Brice, her daughter, Jenny (Jeffrey) Miner, grandmother of Jack and Samantha Miner; sister of Patricia (Bud) Yensan, Michael D. (Kathy) McNulty, Roberta “Bobbi” (Ken) Champagne and the late Margaret “Peggy” (Robert) Hooper and Mary A. Loder. Also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Shirley graduated from Madonna high school in 1965. She was employed as a retail manager for several Dollar General and Dollar Tree stores in Western NY for 34 years. She was an artist who also enjoyed crafts and sewing. Per Shirley’s wishes, there were no services.
Sally M. (nee Murrett) Andrzejczak - Of Grand Island, NY, June 1, 2022. Beloved wife of Michael F. Andrzejczak; cherished mother of JP (Mary Beth) and Katie (Paul Lavocat) Andrzejczak; doting grandma to Mason Andrzejczak, and Skyler and Kinsley Lavocat; loving sister of Kathy (Brian) Fitzgerald, Jim (Karen) Murrett, Patty (Andy) Krotseng, Betsy (Lori Nielsen) Murrett, and Mo-Jo Murrett. Predeceased by her parents, Peter and Elizabeth; and siblings, Peter (Janice), Larry, and Tom. Sister-in-law to Arlene and Dan Miodonski. Sally leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. No prior visitation. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions may be made to: Women of the Moose #1922, PO Box 812, Grand Island, NY 14072. Arrangements by: ERIE COUNTY CREMATION SERVICE, 824-6435. Please share your condolences at: www.eriecountycremationservice.com.
Iris A. Jircitano - "95 years old", May 9, 2022, of Grand Island, NY. Beloved wife of the late Albert Jircitano; dear mother of Matthew (Kyle) and Aimee (Anthony) Emmi; loving grandmother of Nicholas, Joshua, Emilie (Charlie), Peter, Will, Ruby, Lauren, Lexi, Anthony, Madeline and Paul; great-grandmother of Alex. There will be a Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, June 11, 2022, at 9:30 AM at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island 14072 (please assemble at church). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Niagara Hospice. Arrangements by BUFFALO NIAGARA CREMATION SERVICE, 716-855-1411. Share condolences at www.buffaloniagaracremation.com.
Olga A. (nee Valle) DeMicke - May 24, 2022. Born in Vienna, Austria. Beloved wife of the late SGM Nicholas J. DeMicke; daughter of the late Viktor Valle and Leopoldine (nee Kodat) Valle; dear sister of Leopoldine "Lena" Hitchcock, Viktor Valle, Ingeborg "Mausi" Kurz and the late Rudolf Valle and Liane Maria Dahlberg; also survived by many nieces and nephews. No prior visitation. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Stephen's R.C. Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, on Saturday, June 11th, at 11 AM. The Funeral Mass will be live-streamed at: www.ststephenswny.com. Olga was an active member of the Altar and Rosary Society and Bereavement Committee at St. Stephen's Church and a longtime waitress for over 30 years at Nuchereno's. Olga was the most generous, warm hearted, loving, and caring person. She will remain in our hearts forever. Flowers are gratefully declined. In lieu of, expressions of sympathy donations may be made to St. Stephen's Bereavement Committee. Arrangements by CUSACK FUNERAL HOME, W. Seneca, NY.
Edward J. Danahy - October 5, 2021 in Clearwater, FL, formerly of Grand Island. Retired Lieutenant of the Buffalo Fire Dept. Son of the late Edward and Irene (Nesselbeck) Danahy; brother of Monica Danahy and Sister Maureen Danahy, SSJ. Family and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial Wednesday, June 8th, 10 AM at Blessed Sacrament R.C. Church, 1035 Delaware Ave., Buffalo, NY. Burial will be private. Online condolences to www.denglerrobertspernafuneral.com.
Leona "Lee" (nee Yaffe) Cohen - Of Grand Island, NY, on June 1, 2022. Devoted wife of the late Dr. Sidney J. Cohen; loving mother of Ross and Morey (Sandra)Cohen; grandmother of Emily Rose and Nathaniel David. Leona was a teacher, writer and opera supporter. Funeral Services will be held on Friday at 12 Noon at AMHERST MEMORIAL CHAPEL, LLC, 281 Dodge Rd. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity of one's choice. Family guest-book online at www.amherstmemorialchapel.com.
Donna Rodriguez - Age 86, of Grand Island, passed away on Monday, May 30th, 2022 at Kenmore Mercy Hospital. She was born in Niagara Falls on November 26, 1935, the daughter of the late Donald and Marion (Robertson) Hawley. She attended local schools, graduating from Tonawanda High School in June 1951 at the age of 16, having skipped one grade.
Beloved wife of the late Francis "Frank" Rodriguez, whom she married May 1, 1954 and who preceded her in death on February 5th, 2007, Donna is survived by her children, Patricia (Harry) Beal of Kenosha, WI, Michael (Kathy) of Ft. Myers, FL, James (Mary) of Aurora, IL, Lisa (John) Black and Thomas, both of Grand Island, and Richard (Laurie) of Oxford, MI; grandchildren, Hamilton (Dina), Francesca, (Kevin) Angel; Patrick, Harrison, Alexander and Margaret Beal; Michael (Katie), Matthew, Marcus and Joseph Rodriguez; Jillian (Timothy) Robinette, Erin (Michael) DiCristina, James (Sarah) Rodriguez, Kylee (Michael) Minor and Brianne (Michael) Legittino; Robert (Ashley), John (Kate), Kara (Christopher) Bernard, and Franklin (Leah) Black; and David, Robert and Carleigh Rodriguez; brother James (Sue) Hawley of Daytona Beach, FL and sister Linda (Robert) Kaczor of Dublin, OH and 17 great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her brothers Jack (Judy) and Jerry Hawley.
A loving and devoted homemaker, Donna also worked for several years at Electronic Automation Systems, (EAS) as Office Manager and then at WUTV Channel 29 as Program Director, both of Grand Island. Her passion, pride and joy was her family, as evidenced by the wall to wall pictures you see upon entering her home. Whether it was watching her late husband Frank play basketball or fast pitch softball; her sons play baseball, basketball or football; her daughters participate in cheerleading and dance; or her grandchildren compete in a variety of sports and other extracurricular activities, Donna was always there and always the #1 fan. Donna loved the holidays, mostly because the entire family would typically be together. She also enjoyed hosting family at their Florida "winter home" during the years they had homes in Poinciana and then later in the Daytona area. She enjoyed cooking (breakfast was her favorite) and "Nana Donna" pancakes became a favorite with her kids and grandkids.
Friends may call Friday, 4-7 PM, at KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, at 9:30 AM at St. Stephen Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Grand Island Fire Company, 2275 Baseline Road, Grand Island 14072. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Rose L. (nee Travis ) Frentzel - Of Buffalo, passed away peacefully with her family surrounded by her side on May 25, 2022, at the age of 95. Beloved wife of the late Ernest J. Frentzel; dear daughter of the late Harold and Dorothy Travis; dear sister of the late June and the late Harold "Skip" Travis (Sally); loving mother of Michael (Janis), Mark (Patricia) and Rosemarie (Thomas) Mescall; adored grandmother of Michael, Lee, John, Justin, Alison and Lauren; cherished great-grandmother of Camille, Declan, Danica, Quinn, Harper and James. Survived by many nieces and nephews. Rose was a life-long resident of South Buffalo, living independently in her home until her passing. She was a teacher aide for the Buffalo School System for over 30 years. Relatives and friends may visit the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Southtowns Chapel), 3060 Abbott Rd., near Lake Ave., on Friday from 2-7 PM. A Funeral Service will immediately follow. Private interment Hillcrest Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center. Memories and online condolences at www.lombardofuenralhome.com.
Gregory S. Madejski - May 29, 2022, of Grand Island. Husband to Rosalie Madejski (nee Testa). Father to Jon A. and Julie Ann (Glenda Chausse) Madejski. Grandfather to Rachael and James Donohue; also survived by cousins, nieces, and a nephew. Friends may call Wednesday, June 1st, 2022 from 4-7 PM at KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Memorial Mass will be held June 2nd, 9:30 AM, at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Feed Buffalo or a charity of your choice. Please share condolences at Kaiserfuneral.com.
Robert Mazepa - - Age 95, of Grand Island, passed away May 22, 2022. Predeceased by devoted wife, Magdolna; dear father of Dr. Erzsebet Mazepa, Edith (Gene) Block, and Emese (Vincent) Pedroza; loving grandfather of Nathan (Kerri), Stephen (Lindsay), Douglas (Natalia) Block, Rachael (Anthony) Miracle, Marilia (Michael) Wimberly, Victoria (Dr. Michael) Ianniello, Joshua, John (Julia) Pedroza, and 14 great-grandchildren; dear brother of the late Edith Decleva. We will cherish his memory and love of family, Hungarian heritage, engineering, nature, skiing, flying, music, and his dogs. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at the St. Jude Center, 760 Ellicott Street, Buffalo, Friday, May 27, at 9:30 AM. Please share condolences at www.Kaiserfuneral.com.
Donald K. Kezar - Peacefully went to be with his Lord May 19, 2022, of Grand Island. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Judith; son, Christopher (Cathy); six grandchildren; six great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, Elwin and Ethel Kezar; brother, Ronald; and stepson, James Fire, Jr. Don retired in 2000 from GM Tonawanda. He was an avid Buffalo Bills fan with season tickets for 50 years. He also enjoyed bowling, traveling, golf and his occasional cigar. Friends may call Tuesday, 10 AM - 1 PM, followed by Funeral Services Tuesday at 1 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Ranvir Moudgil, Ph.D. - Of Grand Island, NY passed away May 17, 2022. Ranvir's life force primarily centered on being with his beloved family. He leaves behind the love of his life, wife Natalie Moudgil, daughter Alka Moudgil, grandson Arjuna Velayudam, daughter Seema Washington (nee Moudgil), son-in-law Jason Washington, and nephews Vibhaker and Nishaker Moudgil, Arun and Rajeev Joshi. Ranvir was predeceased by brothers Om Prakash Sharma, Ved Prakash Sharma, Ravi Dat Joshi, and Randhir Kumar Moudgil. He was a favorite uncle of a great many nieces and nephews in Canada, England, and India. Born in Samana, Punjab, India in 1935 to Parsini Devi and Balkiram Joshi, Ranvir was a professor at Kurukshetra University and later served until his retirement as an anthropology and sociology professor at Niagara University. His areas of academic interest spanned a lifetime. He was honored to study under and work with Dr. Peter V. Karpovich of Springfield College in the area of kinesiology, researching isometric muscular contraction in athletes. His doctoral research focused upon Asian refugees fleeing Uganda in 1972 and integrating into Canada. A primary source of fulfilment in his academic life came from his interactions with students. As a member of the Hindu Cultural Society of Western New York, Ranvir served on the initial constitution committee. His community service entailed the sharing of his cardiac experiences with patients at Buffalo General Medical Center with the goal of reducing anxiety about cardiac care. He will be remembered for his deep spirituality, his sense of humor, and his love for photography and videography capturing the family's favorite moments including cultural activities. Private services will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in memory of Ranvir Moudgil, Ph.D. may be made to Niagara University at the following address: Institutional Advancement, P0 Box 2008, Niagara University, NY 14109-2008. Share condolences at www.AMIGONE.com.
Rose Ann Krause - May 11, 2022 Of Grand Island. Predeceased by Husband DeLoss Krause. Mother to Raymond (Barbara) Krause, Barbara Turley, Trish (late Michael) Cope, Karen Cowan and Helen Fisher. Grandmother to 11 and Great-grandmother to 17. Rose is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Rose was a long time 911 operator for the Grand Island Fire Company. Friends may call Sunday, May 15 from 1-4 at Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the S.P.C.A or Hospice Buffalo.
Patricia M. (nee Gorman) Collins - May 13, 2022, of Grand Island. Wife of the late David A. Collins. Mother of Kathleen (Chris) Krawczyk, David Collins and Kristin (Joseph) Collado. Grandmother of Kathleen, Christian, Erin and Caroline. Sister of Michael (Janet) and William (Sharon) Gorman. Also survived by loving brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, cousins, nieces and nephews. Patricia taught social studies at Veronica Connor Middle School. She was very active in her faith. Friends may call Wednesday, May 18th from 4:30-7:30 PM at Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday at 9:30 AM at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice Buffalo. Please share condolences at www.Kaiserfuneral.com.
John H. Cook - May 11, 2022, of Grand Island. Husband of Betty Cook. Father of John M. (Tammie) and Jeff (Nancy) Cook. Grandfather of Brian, Chris, Matthew and Nick Cook. Brother of Pam (Jeff) Dzialak, Judy Mataruga and the late Doug (survived by wife Diana) Cook. Also survived by nieces and nephews. Funeral services private. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo. Share condolences at www.kaiserfuneral.com.
Timothy J. Mordaunt - Of Buffalo, entered into rest May 4, 2022. Loving father of Victoria Mordaunt, the late Kali Mordaunt, and the late Keith Brewer; dear brother of Thomas (Sharon), John, Jean and Daniel (Charlotte) Mordaunt; also survived by nieces and nephews. No prior visitation. A funeral service will be held at St. Philip's Episcopal Church, 22 Sussex St., Buffalo on Tuesday, May 10th at 12 PM. (Please assemble at church.) Arrangements by LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northtowns Chapel). Online condolences may be made at www.lombardofuneralhome.com Flowers gratefully declined. Donations in Tim's honor can be made to Hospice Foundation.
Donald J. Gardner - May 9, 2022, of Grand Island. Husband of Linda Gardner. Father of Jeffrey J. (Anna) Gardner and Justine Gardner Anderson. Stepfather of Tracey (David) Patton and Lisa (John) Strawbridge. Step-grandfather of Sophie and Sam Strawbridge. Predeceased by six brothers and sisters. Friends may call Friday, 4-7 PM, at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, where Funeral Services will be held Saturday at 10 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Cornerstone Bible Baptist Church, 5810 Buffalo St., Sanborn, NY 14132.
Denise Marie (nee Jones) Link - Of Grand Island, NY on May 6, 2022. Daughter of Toni Morana Jones and the late Joseph J. Jones. Loving mother of Desire Link (Justin) Tedesco and Wesley P. Link. Grandmother of Lilith Tedesco. Sister of the late Robert "Bob" (Terri) Jones. Also survived by nieces and nephews. Funeral Service private at the convenience of the family. Arrangements by D. LAWRENCE GINNANE FUNERAL HOME, Kenmore, NY. Condolences may be sent to ginnanefuneralhome.com.
Rena (nee Robert) Fraser - May 4, 2022, age 95, resident of Grand Island, NY, since 1959. Rena was born in Getzville, NY, to the late Louisa (Muck) and Murray Robert. She was preceded in death by her husband of 71 years, Donald Blair Fraser, as well as her sisters Irene, Charlotte and Verna (Alvin Koepsel), and her brothers Murray, Lee and Ray (Phyllis Barone), several of whom she cared for during their final illnesses. Rena is survived by her daughter, Diana (Joseph) Fraser Govern of Boston, MA; and son, Robert Scott Fraser of Grand Island. Rena's faith was an important part of her life. She grew up attending St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Eggertsville, and over the following years, was a parishioner of Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, Elmwood and West Ferry, St. Timothy's Lutheran Church, Grand Island, Augustana Lutheran Church, Tonawanda, and since 2005, Church of the Apostles, Lutheran, North Tonawanda. Rena was kind, caring and generous throughout her long, active life. As well as a loving sister, wife and mother, she taught Sunday school, served on Altar guilds, participated in Bible study groups and prayer chains, played chimes, and assisted area refugees to obtain their driver's license. Over the decades her casseroles and desserts were much sought after wherever they appeared. She was also a skilled gardener who, as a 5'1" 94 year old, could be easily recognized under a wide brim hat while happily mowing her expansive lawn. Rena will be fondly remembered by her family, friends and countless other people whose lives she touched. A Memorial Service will be held at a later date with interment in Whitehaven Cemetery, Grand Island. Memorial donations may be made to Church of the Apostles, Lutheran, 75 17th Ave., North Tonawanda, NY 14120. Please share condolences at Kaiserfuneral.com.
Marlyn E. (nee Mammoser) Euler - Of Grand Island, NY, beloved wife, and mother, passed away surrounded by family on April 19, 2022. She was born May 31, 1936, in East Eden, New York, daughter of the late Roy Clemons Mammoser and Mildred Rose Mammoser. Marlyn is survived by her devoted husband, Francis Walter Sawtelle; and her adoring sons, Mark (Jane), Michael (Tracy), and Sean (Donna). She also leaves behind her brother, Gordon "Corky" of East Eden, NY; and sister, Judy of Tucson, AZ; her brother, Allen and sister, Diane having predeceased her. In addition, she also leaves behind five loving grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Family and friends may gather on Saturday, May 7, 2022, at DENGLER, ROBERTS, PERNA FUNERAL HOME, 3070 Delaware Ave., Kenmore, NY 14217, for a Celebration of Life from 1-4 PM, with a service at 2 PM.
Marlyn earned a Bachelor's degree in Business Management from Daemen University in Amherst, NY, and had a long career with Sierra Research, starting as a secretary and working her way into a management role. After retirement, Marlyn dedicated much of her time to volunteer work, primarily with the Morlock Foundation in Lockport, NY. She was an avid reader and enjoyed many physical activities, including walking, swimming and Zumba. Most of all, she loved family time, often traveling for visits. The Euler/Sawtelle family wishes to extend it's sincere thanks to the team from Hospice and Palliative Care Buffalo, who provided care for Marlyn in her final weeks. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Marlyn's name to Crisis Services, crisis-services.networkforgood.com. Fond memories and condolences may be shared online at www.denglerrobertspernafuneral.com.
John J. Hess - April 28, 2022, of Grand Island. Husband of Sandra Buell Hess and the late Marilyn K. (nee Jacobi) Hess; father of Kathleen A. Jimenez, Susan L. (Eric) Berger, Mark (Gail) and Robert (Nadia) Hess; stepfather of Scott (Georgi) Kassy and Douglas (Kristen) Buell; also survived by 10 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren; brother of Georgia Cusack and the late Mary Elizabeth Rapp. Friends may call Friday June 24th, 4-7 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, June 25th, at 9:30 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Diana Marie (nee Clukey) Hoffmeister - March 21, 2022, of Grand Island. Loving partner of Allen Beyers; mother of Eric (Christine), Ashley Hoffmeister and Zach Parisi; grandmother of Jackson Parisi and Miley Hall; sister of Robert (Bonnie), Lee (Peggy) and David (Diane) Clukey and Carol (Howard) Weed. Diana is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Saturday, May 21st, 3-6 PM at KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island. A Memorial Service will be held Sunday, May 22, 2 PM, at St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church, 68 Eagle St., Williamsville. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society. Share condolences at www.kaiserfuneral.com.
John Russell Tripi, Jr. - Age 64, of Grand Island, left Earth to be with his creator on April 17, 2022. He is survived by his wife, Carolyn; his beloved children Jordan (Jon) Pulaski, Dominic and Destiney, Branden and Bryanna; his mother Celeste, his siblings Celeste (Mark) Angelo, Kevin, Keith and his nieces, nephews, and grandson Loki. John was the owner and operator of J.R. Building & Remodeling for 46 years. His family and his work were his entire life. It is with a heavy heart of adoration and love that we send him on his way. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, April 30th, at 9:30 AM at St. Steven's Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island. Flowers are welcome. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
William R. Baetzhold - Age 88, died on April 17, 2022, at home on Grand Island. He was born in Buffalo, the son of the late Herbert A. and Anna Pearl (Ingold) Baetzhold. Bill graduated from Burgard Vocational High School, Class of 1952. Following graduation, he served with the U.S. Army in the Korean War, Bill was a Corporal with the 511th Parachute Infantry Regiment. He is predeceased by a brother, Gerald Baetzhold. Surviving are his children, Michael Baetzhold, Patricia Cope (Ronald), Kathleen Provino (Gary), Laurie McGuire (Leon), Mark Baetzhold, William Baetzhold and Kenneth Baetzhold; his private nurse/granddaughter Stephanie Cope; her dog Mavis and cat Gretchen; also 12 more grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren; his sisters Susan Higdon, Judith Delaney (the late Harry Delaney); many nieces and nephews. Bill was a mechanic for many years with Cope/Bestway Express and then Room For Rent Equipment Leasing, Inc. A Celebration of Life to be held at a later date locally with a burial at Arlington National Cemetery to be announced. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Louis G. Manzella - Of Grand Island, NY, entered into rest April 21, 2022. Beloved husband of 62 years to Geraldine (nee Eldridge); also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, family, caregivers and friends. Relatives and friends may visit LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northtowns Chapel), 885 Niagara Falls Blvd. near Eggert, Amherst, NY on Tuesday from 9-11 AM, where a Funeral Service will immediately follow. Online condolences may be made at www.lombardofuneralhome.com.
Eugene J. Hasselbeck - April 15, 2022, of Grand Island, NY and Sanibel Island, FL. Loving husband of 64 years of the late JoAnn (nee Daigler) Hasselbeck; father of Amy (Gary) Goudelock, Todd (Barbara) Hasselbeck, Laurie (Stanley) Miller and Jon (Yolande) Hasselbeck; also survived by 16 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren and nieces Lynn Daigler, Katherine and Sheila Flanagan; brother of the late Marjorie Flanagan. Friends may call Friday, April 29th, 4-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Happy Hooves http://www.happyhoovessc.com or the Northgate Church Building Fund https://northgatebuffalo.com, 60 Hertel Ave., Buffalo (formally St. John the Baptist Church), where Funeral Services will be held Saturday, April 30th, at 11 AM.
Gene enlisted in the US Navy at age 17, and served in the Pacific during WWII on the destroyer USS Tucker, where he earned the nickname "Old Gunner". Returning to Buffalo after the war, Gene graduated from the University of Buffalo with a degree in Electrical Engineering. An avid skier, Gene was a founding member of Sitzmarker Ski Club in Colden, where he and his family enjoyed winter weekends. Gene spent over 40 years growing and managing the Raymond E. Kelley Company in Bowmansville, where he retired as President & CEO.
Gene lived a full, active life to the end, and leaves a wonderful legacy. He and JoAnn spent many happy winters on Sanibel Island, where they built a second close community of friends. He loved to travel, and with JoAnn, visited many friends, children and grandchildren across the country in their motorhomes. Gene greeted everyone by name, always made time to talk and let folks know they were important to him. He will be deeply missed by all who had the blessing to have known him. A livestream of the Celebration of Gene's Life will be available at https://northgatebuffalo.churchcenter.com/episodes/116083 Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Grace Bishara Aswad - Of Grand Island, NY, April 17, 2022. Wife of the late Very Rev. Fr. George (Richard) Aswad; mother of Lynn (George) Wood, Laura (Jeff) Colyer, Louise (William) Snyder, Lisa (Michael) Dudley, and Lana Dudley; blessed grandmother of Jessica (Tracy), Jeana, Matthew, Andrew, Ryan (of blessed memory), Rachel, Kara, Eric, Amber, and Alyssa; great-grandmother of Andrew and Jeffrey; sister of Judy (late Jack) Manoukian, Kamil (Carol) Bishara, the late William (late Diane) and Joseph Bishara. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. Her family will be present on Sunday from 3-7 PM at St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church, 1073 Saunders Settlement Road, Niagara Falls, NY, where Funeral Services will be held on Bright, Monday at 10 AM, with the Very Rev. Raphael Barberg officiating. Flowers are gratefully declined. Memorials may be made in Grace's name to St. George Antiochian Church. Arrangements were made through the RHONEY FUNERAL HOME, Niagara Falls, NY. Visit online at www.rhoneyfuneralhome.com, for guest register.
John R."Jack" Shanor, Jr. - April 7, 2022, age 81. Beloved husband of the late Susan R. (nee Sanscrainte) Shanor; devoted father of John R. (Renee) Shanor, III and the late James M. (Kathleen) Shanor and the late Richard (late Genelle) Shanor; loving grandfather of Nichole (Michael) Glimer, Jessica (Michael) Zwelling, Joseph Shanor, Thomas Shanor, Aren (Luciano) Ladelfa, and Richard Shanor; adored great-grandfather of Natalie, Rebecca, Elrie, Luciano, Madalyn, Brantley, and Vincenzo; predeceased by his siblings, Gordon Shanor, Leonard Shanor and Gladys (late Raymond) Jaskowiak; also survived by several nieces and nephews. The family will be present Thursday, April 28, 2022 from 4-8 PM at the (Tonawanda Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 2600 Sheridan Dr. (at Parker Blvd.). Family and friends are invited Friday, April 29, 2022 at 11 AM to attend a Celebration of Life to be held at River Oaks Golf Club, 201 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, NY 14072. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in his memory to the Alzheimer's Association, WNY Chapter, 6400 Sheridan Dr., Suite 320, Buffalo, NY 14221 or the Disabled Veterans National Foundation, 4601 Forbes Blvd., Suite #130, Lanham, MD 20706. Arrangements by Anthony E. Greco, GRECO FUNERAL HOME. Jack was a United States Navy Veteran and the Owner and Operator of Shanor Electric Supply, Inc. Share memories and condolences on Jack's Tribute Page at GRECOFUNERAL.com.
David L. Zelonis, Dave or “Z”, a much loved son and brother, passed suddenly April 4, 2022 at the age of 65. Dave is survived by his mother, Louise Zelonis, his sisters, Laureen (Doug) Hess, Lynn (Dave) Mikulski, and nephews; Cody, Tucker, and Ben Hess, Quinn, Travis, and Jack Mikulski. His father, Lawrence Zelonis, passed in 2013. Dave had a love of music and possessed an amazing knowledge of artists and their bands. He played guitar, bowled, and enjoyed cruising on his boat in the Niagara River and Lake Erie. In years past he golfed with his father. Dave had many good memories of times spent with family and friends, including the crazy family poker games. Dave loved growing up on Grand Island. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
William H. Whitford - Entered into rest peacefully April 6, 2022, at age 97 with family by his side. Veteran of WWII, beloved husband of 13 years to Jean McManus. And beloved husband of 55 years to the late Esther MacPherson Whitford; devoted father of Holly J., William G. (Alain), Cameron R. (Amy) and the late Bruce M. Whitford, Grandfather of Brian, Alexandra, Benjamin, Sarah, Elizabeth, Michael, Great Grandfather of Ajax, Declan, Storm, Stepfather of Laurel McManus, Lizbeth (Elliott) Hall and the late Kevin McManus. According to Bill's arrangements his body has been donated to SUNY Buffalo Medical Foundation. Dad has asked that there be no services. We love you and miss you Bill.
Thomas C. Lepenven, DMD - Age 54, of Grand Island, NY, and formerly Brockton, MA, sadly passed away on Sunday, April 3, 2022. He was the loving father to his two beautiful girls Lindsey and Allisen Lepenven. He is also survived by his loving cousin Patty Bell of Hyannis, MA. He was the son of the late Patricia (Brown) Lepenven. Tom had a dental practice in Niagara Falls and Grand Island for over 25 years where he and his office manager Holly Cutler Edmister took pride in all their patients. Besides spending time with his girls, Tom loved the outdoors and being part of nature. Friends may call Friday, April 8, from 5-7 PM, at KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the SPCA.
Henry Webb - Born in Grand Island on March 28, 1933. Passed into eternal life on April 2, 2022, age 89, beloved husband of Marian Webb and the late June Webb; devoted father of Gary (Robin) Webb, Jennifer (Matthew) Widmann and the late Gene, Gregory and Michael Webb; dear stepfather of Bobby (Stephanie) LoTempio, Jamie (Nicole) and Justin (Mia) Barden, Heidi (Kyle) Ness, Matthew (Joni) LoTempio and Mark Smith; dearest brother of Donald (Karen) Webb, Shirley (late Lewis) Smith and the late Esther (Clifford) Lozo, Harold (Josephine), Emory (Eileen) Webb, Florence (Layne) Winkelsas and Lester (Joan) Webb; also survived by several cherished grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Henry served in the U.S. Navy from 1952-1956 and was a member of the American Legion, George F. Lamm Post. The family will receive friends on Thursday from 4-8 PM at the (Tonawanda Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 2600 Sheridan Dr. (at Parker Blvd). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, 10:00 AM at St. Jude the Apostle Parish, 800 Niagara Falls Blvd., North Tonawanda. All are asked to assemble at church. Interment to follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Share condolences at www.AMIGONE.com.
Gilbert Thornton "Skip" Delong, Jr. - March 30, 2022, of Grand Island, NY. Husband to the late Hilda L. DeLong (nee Miller); father to Gary Douglas (Kathy) DeLong, Susan Cunningham and Bernard DeLong; grandfather to Laura (Andrew) Gluvna, Branden (Jessica) DeLong, Rebecca (Jeffrey) Justen, Thomas (Courtney) Cunningham, Alexis Rist and Matthew DeLong; great-grandfather to Hayden, Jenna, Ryan, Jeffrey, Madison, Hailey, Emma, Maisy and Vivian. Skip honorably served in the U.S. Army and enjoyed 50+ years as a member of Trinity United Methodist Church. A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, April 9th, at 10 AM at Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Please share condolences at Kaiserfuneral.com.
Elsie Marie Stamler - March 31, 2022, of Grand Island. Wife of the late Harry T. Stamler; mother to Kathleen, Linda, the late Theresa and Tracey Stamler; grandmother to Amanda Stamler-West, Jacob Stamler, Conor (Theresa) Bryan and Tessie Bryan; great-grandmother to Donte and Zion West. Elsie is also survived by many cousins, nieces and nephews who she loved dearly. Friends may call Tuesday, 6-8 PM at Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday, 9:30 AM at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd. Please share your online condolences at www.kaiserfuneral.com.
Ellen A. DiLaura - 83, of Grand Island, NY, passed away on March 22, 2022, at her residence, surrounded by her family and under the care of Hospice Buffalo. Born in Brooklyn, NY, she was the daughter of the late John F. and Helen (McCue) Mason. On June 9, 1962, she married Anthony J. DiLaura, D.D.S., at St. Mary's Church in East Islip, NY. In addition to her husband of 59 years, Ellen is survived by her children, John (Kathleen) DiLaura, D.D.S., Mary (Daniel) Bierbrauer, Patricia (Michael) George, and Christine (Henry) McWilliams; her grandchildren, Jenette DiLaura, Renee DiLaura, Kathryn (Michael) Rustowicz, Laura Bierbrauer, James George, Claire George, John George, Emma McWilliams, Patrick McWilliams, and Ryan McWilliams; her brother, John (Helen) Mason, her sister-in-law, Loretta (James) Mansour, as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins. The family will be present to greet relatives and friends from 11:15 to 12:00 PM on Saturday, April 23 at St. Stephen Roman Catholic Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island, NY 14072, where Ellen's Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 12:00 PM. Private interment in St. Stephen Cemetery, Grand Island, NY. In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to Hospice Buffalo or to the Alzheimer's Association of Western NY. Arrangements by M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.
Francis X. "Frank" Vollmer - See Bullalo News Obituary.
Bradley A. Lansberry - March 29, 2022. Of Grand Island. Husband to Kate Lansberry; father to Brad J. (Colleen) Lansberry; stepfather to Aaron Evens; grandfather to Claire, Peyton, and John Lansberry; brother to Pamelia (Benedict) Moraca; and uncle to Brandon Moraca. Brad worked at SIHI for 39 years and National Grid for the past 9 years. He was a member of both gun clubs on Grand Island and won trophies as a trap shooter. Friends may call Friday, April 1st, from 4-7 PM, at Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center.
Beryl G. (nee Perkin) Calabro - Of Grand Island, entered into rest March 20, 2022. Beloved wife of the late Francis J. Calabro; devoted mother of John L. Calabro, Gloria B. (Dan) Moran, Cheryl A. Costello, Frank R. (Gloria) Calabro and Lawrence R. Calabro (Dan Castricone); cherished grandmother of John Ryan Calabro (Lisa Berke), Maxwell, Aidan, Talia, Marla, late John Bailey and great-grandmother of Gianluca; loving daughter of the late Reginald and Doris (nee Ingram) Perkin; predeceased by two brothers and one sister; also survived by relatives and friends. No prior visitation. Private Services will be held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements by LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME.
Carol Borchert Traina - Carol Borchert Traina, 58, went home to be with her Savior Jesus on February 19, 2022 in Grand Island, NY, after a long battle with cancer. She was born on December 31, 1963 in Kenmore, NY. Carol was a dedicated teacher in the North Tonawanda Schools for 28 years. Carol was a long-serving and cherished member of Kenmore Alliance church. She was a teacher, a youth leader, a co-leader of the Hope & Healing ministry, and ran the Bible Quizzing ministry for many years, along with many other ministries for over 30 years. She did all of these with great faith and intentionality. She ran her race and finished well. Carol is survived by her husband, Mark Traina, and her children, Carrie Eberly and Luke Traina. Carol is also survived by her mother and stepfather, Brenda and John Cassoni, and her stepmother, Denise Borchert, and predeceased by her father, Robert Borchert. She is also survived by her sister, Diana (David) Hills, brother-in-law, Bob (Bonnie) Traina, stepbrothers, James (Stephanie) Bowman and Dan (Amanda) Bowman and nieces and nephews, Anna, Rachele, Jessica, Michael, Jillian, Hannah and Christopher. Memorial service to be held at Kenmore Alliance Church, 175 Bonnett Ave., Tonawanda, NY, on Saturday, April 2, 2022, at 11 AM. Memorial Donations can be given to Kenmore Alliance Church Youth Ministry. Arrangements by DANZER, DENGLER, ROBERTS FUNERAL HOME. Fond memories and condolences may be shared online at www.denglerrobertspernafuneral.com.
Mark LoPresti - March 19th, 2022, of Grand Island. Husband of 40 years to Marilee LoPresti; father to Samuel (Dongeun), Stephen (Emily Serwinowski), and Vincent LoPresti; son of the late Charles and Carmella LoPresti; brother to Tancred LoPresti, Charlene Doolittle, the late Dante, Gene, and David LoPresti; he is also survived by nieces, nephews, and cousins. Mark was born in 1957 in Jamestown, NY, to Sicilian immigrants, the youngest of 6 children. He attended LaSalle High School, where he was the student council president and graduated in 1975. Mark Attended Niagara University, graduating in 1979. He had a successful career in government accounting and business working for companies including ITT, RF Communications, GIBCO, Life Technologies, and Sodexo. Mark was proud to have owned Air Lock Plastics in Tonawanda, NY. Mark Loved his family and his Sicilian culture. He was fond of gardening, cooking, listening to music, and his lovable dogs. He enjoyed mentoring and building positive relationships. We will miss Mark very much and remember all the motivation, encouragement, and happiness he brought everyone. Friends may call Saturday, March 26, from 11 AM to 1 PM, at Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the American Heart Association.
Buffalo News Obituary
May 30, 1942 – March 22, 2022
James H. Watz, a partner in the law firm of Phillips Lytle LLP whose specialty was commercial real estate, died March 22 after a lengthy illness. He was 79. Born in Buffalo, he was a 1959 graduate of Riverside High School, where he was an all-state tennis player. An honor student, he also was a member of the basketball team, a Student Council member and a Boys’ State representative. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Canisius College in 1963 and graduated summa cum laude from Boston College Law School. He and his high school sweetheart, Sharon L. Fenlon, were married June 6, 1964.
An officer in the Army Reserve Officers Training Corps at Canisius and Boston College, he went on to active duty as a captain in the Judge Advocate Generals Corps and was a chief of military justice. He then joined the faculty at the United States Military Academy at West Point, where he was an associate professor of law.
After he and his wife returned to Buffalo in 1971 to be near their families, he took a position with Phillips Lytle. Among his clients were the Walden Galleria, Canterbury Woods and the Buffalo Sabres. He was chosen as one of the Best Lawyers in America several times and was of counsel to the firm after he retired as a partner in 2003. He also taught at UB Law School as an adjunct instructor in business law and constitutional law.
A Grand Island resident since 1971, he was a founder and president of the Grand Island Community Chorus and added his baritone voice to the choir at St. Stephen’s Catholic Church for many years. He served on the St. Stephen’s Parish Council, as well as the church’s School Advisory Board and the School Finance Committee. He was chairman of the board for the Christian Foundation for the Performing Arts Festival Chorus. He was a member of the Grand Island Historical Society and the Friends of the Grand Island Library. He also was a tour guide and volunteer at Old Fort Niagara and was a volunteer fundraiser for the Cystic Fibrosis foundation. He was honored as a Grand Island Citizen of the Year in 2013. He continued to play tennis as an adult and enjoyed bicycling along the river on Grand Island, gardening, trains and reading about history. In addition to his wife, a retired middle school English teacher in the Ken-Ton schools, survivors include two sons, Christopher J. and Michael H.; a daughter, Elizabeth M. Lakeman; and six grandchildren. Services were private.
Jim Watz - Visitation Thursday, March 24th at James E. Grace Funeral Home from 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. (335 Ontario St., Buffalo, NY 14207). Service will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery on Friday morning at 9:00 a.m.
Donna (Mayes) MacKellar - longtime resident of Niagara Falls, passed away in Bradenton, Florida on Tuesday, February 22, 2022. She was born in Niagara Falls on July 29, 1948, a daughter of the late Walter L. and Jean (Smiech) Mayes. She was raised in Niagara Falls and then moved to Grand Island. She moved to Bradenton after retirement. She is survived by three children: Amy (Mike) DiCamillo, Robert (Amanda) MacKellar, IV and Julie MacKellar and 6 grandchildren: Lacie (Michael) Sample, Lauren Cristofanelli, James Martin, Jr. and Alesia MacKellar, Robert MacKellar, IV and Michael MacKellar. She is also survived by four great-grandchildren: Selena and Aaliyah Govern and Layla and Nadia Sample and two siblings: Geraldine (Joseph) Page and Steve (Sandy) Mayes and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents she was predeceased by her beloved husband, Robert C. MacKellar, III and her daughter, Lisa Mayes Owen.
Donna worked as a supervisor at the New York State Thruway Authority, was a member of the American Legion and VFW Post in Bradenton, Florida but her greatest joy was her time with her family. Friends may call at the LANE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 8622 Buffalo Avenue on Saturday, March 26 from 1 to 4 PM where funeral services will be held immediately following the visitation at 4 PM. Burial will be private in Holy Trinity Cemetery in Lewiston.
Thomas P. Hooper - March 18, 2022, of Grand Island. Father to Sara (Gregory) Fieldson, Thomas (Jennifer) Hooper, Jr., Erin (Martin) Pizur, Meghan Hooper, and Matthew Hooper. Grandfather to Samuel, Joshua, and William Fieldson; Garrett and Abigail Hooper, and Hayley, Alyssa, and Blake Pizur. Brother to Kathleen (Chester) Blyman and Neal Hooper. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. Thomas grew up in Levittown, NY. He was a loving father and grandfather, devout Roman Catholic and Eucharistic Minister at St. Stephen's Church. He was a St. Francis H.S. alumnus with the class of 1966. Thomas was a retired U.S. Air Force Captain. A Mass will be held Tuesday, March 22, at 9:30 AM, at St. Francis of Assisi Roman Catholic Church, 4263 St. Francis Dr., Hamburg. A visitation will be held Thursday, March 24, from 2-7 PM, at THOMAS F. DALTON FUNERAL HOME, 2786 Hempstead Turnpike, Levittown, NY. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Heaven just became a lot more entertaining. Michael David Linenfelser entered into rest on March 8, 2022.
Born April 10,1951. Michael or "Mookie" was a 1969 Graduate of Grand Island High School. He then went on to Sullivan Community College where he received a degree in Advertising art. He married his 8th grade sweetheart Penny Leigh Costello Linenfelser and worked for Wayside his family furniture store alongside his parents and brothers. When the store closed in 1985 he went onto the Newspaper business in advertising sales.
A majority of his spare time was spent at the family homestead on the Niagara River or cruising the river on his brothers boat the Teddy Lee. After the passing of his parents he moved his family into the house on East River and continued the family traditions including the famous Labor Day Chickens on the spit. One of his favorite things to do was to lay in his hammock by the river and welcome friends and family who would "walk down the hill". He would always offer a drink and encourage them to take a swim or to hold on to "the ring" and feel the Niagara's current.
Michael was an Island guy. He lived his life on Grand Island, vacationed every year on Martha's Vineyard and then discovered a love for Key West. After his retirement Michael and the love of his life Penny would travel down south to Florida visiting friends and family here and there until they'd land in Key West where they'd spend a month. They'd lay under a palm tree at Ft Zachary Taylor beach during the day and bop around Duval street at night. He loved music, making art, was an enthusiastic conch blower, Bills fan, poem reader and overall facilitator of fun.
Michael was preceded in death by his parents Kathryn and Daniel Linenfelser and brother James(Teddy) Linenfelser. He leaves behind his wife of 47 years, 2 daughters Lisa (Shawn) Hall and Anne (Oliver Jr.) Stuardi, 4 grandchildren Oliver lll, Grace, Caroline, and Elliott Michael. His siblings...Dan(Joann) Linenfelser, Mary (Fred) Cook, John(Carol) Linenfelser, Paul(Donna) Linenfelser, and best friends Doug and Patricia Harding. Along with many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Wednesday, March 23rd, 5-7 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, March 24th at 9:30 AM at St. Stephen R.C. Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. All are asked to assemble at church. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation in Michael's name to the Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper Organization.
Peter W. Kuehne, Sr. - March 12, 2022 of Grand Island, at age 58. Beloved husband of 38 years to Jude (nee Casey) Kuehne; devoted father of Peter W. Kuehne Jr. and Jessica (Adam) Brown; loving son of Irmgard and the late Wolfgang Kuehne; dear brother of Karin (Richard) Koch; the brother-in-law of Dolores Sinicki, mother and father in law, the late George Casey Sr.and Dolly Casey, the late George Casey Jr., surviving wife Judith Casey, the late Alice Ricatone, surviving husband John Ricatone and the late Edward Casey. Loving Uncle to nieces and nephews Michelle (Jason) Koch, Kristen (Bob) Fritschi, George (Danielle) Casey III, Tyler and Chelsea Sinicki, Anthony (Kala) Sinicki and Jessica Sinicki and many great nieces and nephews.
Peter Kuehne was born and raised in Tonawanda where he attended Tonawanda High School and graduated in 1981. While there, he participated/lettered in soccer and swimming. He was inducted into the Tonawanda High School Wall of Fame in 2004 for his outstanding skills and achievements in soccer. He attended and played soccer at Buffalo State College from 1981 - 1985, where he met his wife Jude Casey. They met as they both played soccer for Buffalo State College. They remained married for 38 wonderful years and had two children Peter Jr. and Jessica.
In 1978, Peter started coaching youth leagues and clinics at Soccerworld to share his love and passion for the game with others. He started his coaching at the High School level as the Grand Island boys soccer coach in 1986 and continued coaching at Grand Island for 35 years, where he impacted so many young lives with his skills, wisdom, and ways of motivating players to be the best version of themselves. During his time as a coach, the Grand Island Vikings Boys Soccer team were Class B Champions in 1997, 2003, and 2009. Peter was awarded the Niagara Frontier League Soccer "Coach of the Year" in 1998 for all of his accomplishments and commitment to the sport. Peter and Jude were recognized as the 2018 Niagara Frontier League Cornerstone award recipient as a result of their lifetime contributions to the sport of soccer.
Peter was very active in the Grand Island community. You could always find him helping out with activities or fundraisers at the Grand Island Schools, Moose Lodge, St Stephen’s Church. Peter retired from being a Maintenance Mechanic at NFT Metro after working there for 35.50 years. He started his career in 1985 at the NFTA Rail.
Peter loved being with his family and friends, spending time outdoors at “The Land,” hunting, fishing, golfing, watching all sports and thoroughly enjoyed offering to help anyone that needed it.
The family will receive friends on Friday, March 18 from 3-7 PM at the (Tonawanda Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC. 2600 Sheridan Dr. (at Parker Blvd). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, March 19 at 11:00 AM at St. Stephen R.C. Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. All are asked to assemble at church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Peter W. Kuehne, Grand Island and Tonawanda High Schools Memorial Scholarship Fund. Donations can be made through venmo @PK-HighSchoolScholarship. Or via mail Financial Trust Federal Credit Union, 2014 Grand Island Blvd., Grand Island NY 14072. c/o Jude Kuehne Share condolences at www.AMIGONE.com.
William P. Pendergast, Jr. - Of Grand Island, NY, March 10, 2022. Dear father of Karen (Vincent) DiCarlo and the late Molly Prendergast. Loving grandfather of Annaliese, Eve, Kayleen, and Mariella. Brother of Kathleen (late Dennis) Whalen, Daniel (Marie), Brian, and the late Patrick Prendergast; also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. Bill was a devout Christian who served in the Army in Vietnam and a retired Correctional Officer at Wende. Bill's greatest joy in life was spending time with his daughters and granddaughters. Relatives and friends are invited to attend Funeral Services followed by Military Honors on Tuesday, at 11 AM, at Elmlawn Memorial Park "Chapel of the Elms", 3939 Delaware Ave., Tonawanda, NY. Memorial contributions may be made to Roswell Park Cancer Institute. Condolences may be shared online at www.lesterwedekindtfuneralhome.com.
Dale W. "Jake" Janowsky - Passed away on March 1, 2022, at the age of 82, in his home on Grand Island, NY. Born on December 22, 1939, in North Tonawanda, NY, to William and Ida (Karkau) Janowsky, he is survived by his beloved wife Barbara "Bonnie" Adornetto; his three children, Bill (Timberley) Janowsky, Lynn (James) Nohe, and Cheryl (Marcelino) Vicente; and his four loving grandchildren, Faith, Anthony, Gabrielle, and Olivia. Before retirement, Dale was a professor of accounting at Buffalo State College and Niagara University. If you knew Dale, you remember his quick wit, elaborate storytelling, and sharp mind. His children have many memories of losing to him at pinochle and other card games around the dining room table. His grandchildren will think of him with a sparkle in his blue eyes and a cookie in his front shirt pocket. Loved by every dog he met, Dale enjoyed long walks at Buckhorn or Beaver Island with his furry companions throughout the years. After retiring, he and his wife Bonnie spent many winter months in St. George Island, FL. Dale requested a private family memorial celebrating his life. There will be no formal service. Please raise a glass and toast to his memory.
Mary L. Martello - 99, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away peacefully on March 11, 2022, in Elderwood at Grand Island. Born in Niagara Falls, she was the daughter of the late Vincenzo "Jim" and Louisa (Scamacca) Ricotta; beloved wife of the late Antone C. Martello; loving mother of Vincent (Margaret) Martello and Nan (Ron) Trapini; cherished grandmother of Anthony (Alicia Marcolini) Martello, John Martello, Christopher (Nicole) Martello, RJ Trapani, Nikki (Steve Messenger) Trapani, and Louie Trapani; and the dear great-grandmother of Sophia, Vincenzo Martello, and Blake Messenger. She is also survived by her sister, Isabel (late Vincent) Caterina; her special friend, Amber Tiedemann, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Mary was predeceased by her siblings, Sarah (late John) Soluri and Grace (late Armand) Caterina. Mary's Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, March 14, at 11 AM in Holy Family Parish at St. Joseph's Church, 1413 Pine Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY. Interment will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery. Memorial offerings may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.
Rosemary C. Dzierba - Age 74, of Rushford, NY, died Sunday, March 6, 2022, in her home. Born November 11, 1947, in Buffalo, she was the daughter of David and Hedwig Dombrowski Tweedy. In 2010, in Grand Island, she married Timothy R. Dzierba, who predeceased her on March 9, 2021. A graduate of Bishop McMahon, she was employed by HSBC, in Depew, as a mortgage servicing representative. Surviving are her children, Kristine (Jim) Cochran, Jonathan (Kristen Caldwell) Szumada, Rebecca (Tim) Ross, and Amanda (Dave Hinterberger) Szumada; a grandson, Matthew (Jill Fay) Szumada; a great-granddaughter, Marissa Szumada; a step-daughter, Amy Dzierba; two sisters, Christine Goldstein and Beverly (Rudy) Cruz; a brother, Mike (Judy) Tweedy; nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents and husband, Timothy, she was predeceased by a brother, John Tweedy; and a brother-in-law, Jim Goldstein. Services will be private. Burial will be in the Santa Fe National Cemetery, Santa Fe, NM. Memorials may be made to 11 Day Powerplay at https://communityshift.11daypowerplay.com/Donate. Arrangements are under the direction of OLNEY-FOUST FUNERAL HOMES & CREMATION, Crowell Chapel, 296 North Main Street, Wellsville, NY. Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.
Christina R. (nee Rae) "Ina" Young - Age 90, of the City of Tonawanda and formerly of Grand Island, peacefully, March 5, 2022; wife of the late Frank W. Young; loving mother of Barbara (Marc) Buckley, Frank Young, Michael (Laurie) Young and Joann Chopra; grandmother of Lisa, Julie, Lauren, Jeremy, Peter, Anastasia, Ryan, Colin and Kaleigh; great-grandmother of Jack and Anna; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Christina worked at the VA Hospital, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center and Grove Street Christian Church. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service Sunday, March 13, 2022 at 4:30 PM, in Grove Street Christian Church, 85 Grove St., Tonawanda, NY. Flowers are gratefully declined. Memorial contributions may be made to the Grove Street Christian Church. Condolences may be shared at www.ROTHFUNERAL.com.
Dorothy A. Click - February 27, 2022, of Grand Island, NY. Wife of 65 years to the late William W. Click; mother of the late Lynnette (late Martin) Grisanti, Bonnie Kaiser, and the late William E. (Gail) Click; grandmother of 11; great-grandmother of 25; and great-great-grandmother of four. A Funeral Service will be arranged at a later date. Donations may be made to Hospice Buffalo or SPCA of Erie County.
James F. Forton - Died peacefully on Monday, February 28th, 2022. Born October 21, 1929 in North Tonawanda during the Great Depression, James Francis Forton (Jim) was the middle of five children, four boys and one girl: Gerald, John, James, Virginia, and Raymond Jr. He attended Ascension Grammar School in North Tonawanda and Little Seminary High School on Main and Winspear Streets in Buffalo and graduated from Canisius College in 1951.
Jim was drafted during the Korean War and received basic training at Fort Dix, New Jersey. He was accepted to Officer Candidate School at Fort Benning, Georgia and upon completion was commissioned a Second Lieutenant and sent to Korea in April 1953. He served as a platoon leader and was wounded by a grenade fire on the battle of Pork Chop Hill. He received the Purple Heart, Bronze Star for Valor, Combat Infantry Badge, and National Defense Service Medal, as well as other decorations for his combat service and Intelligence Officer duties. He was promoted to First Lieutenant and at the end of the war was honorably discharged in December 1953. He then married Mary Magdalen Haroney in September 1954. They moved to New York City and lived with his great-aunt in Long Island City while he attended St. John's University Law School on the GI bill.
Jim was father to five children, with the first one being born during his final year of law school. He graduated seventh in his class in June 1957 and worked as an associate, and later became a partner, at Moot Sprague law firm in Buffalo, NY. He also taught labor law at the Catholic Diocese of Buffalo Labor College for many years. His brother, Reverend Gerald Forton, was a priest at the Queen of Martyrs Church in Cheektowaga and later editor of the Diocese newspaper, The Magnificat. Jim did a variety of legal work at Moot Sprague Law Firm, including serving as general counsel to the Erie County Public Relations Board and handling major lawsuits involving pension benefits for employees in the closing of a plant by US Rubber Reclaiming Company, and labor industries. He was co-founder with his senior partner, Robert Fernbach, of Buffalo Place, Inc. and served as general counsel to this not-for-profit company for 37 years from inception to present.
Jim served on the Buffalo Preservation Board from 1980-1994, including 7 years as Chairperson. He was named Buffalonian of the Year by Mayor James Griffin in 1993 in recognition of his extensive volunteer service over the years to the City of Buffalo. Jim and the late Mary Forton are survived by five children, Jeannine (Dan Mullan), Jamie, Mary Beth (Tim Coleman), Therese (Tom Barnes), and Jerry (Laura Forton). He was lovingly known to all of his following 15 grandchildren as "Babop": Emma Magavern (Gherardo Finocchiaro), Sara Magavern (Matt Kahrimanian), Maria Magavern, Mark Magavern, Kate Mullan-Luciano (Alejandro Luciano), Charlie Mullan(Kirsten Zellers), Amy Mullan-Borowiak (Matt Borowiak), Lisa Mullan-Perkins (Shep Perkins), Tess Forton(Greg Ruddick), Tyler Forton, Sam Forton, Madison Forton, Rose Forton, Connor Barnes and Ryan Barnes(Megan Barnes). He also is survived by nine great-grandchildren (Gabriel Finocchiaro, René Luciano, Griffin Barnes, Keira Barnes, Allison Borowiak, Matthew Borowiak, Charley Perkins, Amelia Perkins and Sy Perkins), and a loving uncle to many nieces and nephews. He was a lover of gardening, cooking, playing the violin, reading, traveling, The Chautauqua Institution, architecture, history, The City of Buffalo, spending time with his family, riding his bike and staying fit, and all music but especially the Grand Opera. In lieu of flowers, gifts can be sent to: St. Louis Church Preservation Fund to maintain the church that he loved so much. Make checks payable to St. Louis Church, 35 Edward Street, Buffalo, NY 14202, 716-852-6040 or Nardin Academy, 135 Cleveland Ave., Buffalo, NY 14222. Make checks payable to: Nardin Academy Forton Family Endowed Scholarship Fund, 716-881-6262. A Memorial Service will be held for him on Saturday, March 19 at St. Louis Church at Main and Edward St. in Buffalo, NY at 12:00 pm (not 10am which may have appeared elsewhere). It will be livestreamed at https://stlouisrcchurch.org.
Dorothy (nee Weppner) Herbst - February 9, 2022. Age 79, of Hamburg and Grand Island until moving to South Carolina in 1987. Beloved wife of Martin E. since 1962, and mother of Douglas, Brian (Dee Dee), Katie McMahon (Chris), Greg (Jody) and the late David. Amazing grandmother to nine and great-grandmother to eight. Dorothy was the last surviving child of the late George and Dolores Weppner (Winter). Share condolences and memories of Dorothy with her family at blueridgecremationsociety.com.
Richard W. Schmitz II - devoted father of Rachel Alix, Jill Metz and Ricky (Leanne) Schmitz; loving grandfather of Hailey, Ava, Emily, Cayden, Mya, Kendall, Kennedy, Chase and Thomas; dearest brother to Karen Diamond; survived by many nieces and nephews. Family and friends are invited to visit the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northtowns Chapel), 885 Niagara Falls Blvd. near Eggert/Sheridan, from 3-8 PM on Sunday, March 6th where prayers will be held on Monday morning at 9:30 AM. A Mass of Christian Burial will then be celebrated at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, NY at 11 AM. Interment at St. Stephen's Cemetery. Richard was a brave military member of the Air Force. He was a lifelong Buffalo Bills season ticket holder since 1964. Richard also enjoyed spending time at local and NASCAR tracks throughout the years. Richard was a retired Buffalo Police Officer, having proudly served his community for 34 years. Donations can be made in Richard's honor to ASPCA or Hospice Buffalo. Online condolences may be made at www.lombardofuneralhome.com.
Tricia (nee Adams) Hinaman - Of Grand Island, NY, February 24, 2022, at age 60. Beloved wife and best friend of Kirk Hinaman; loving mother of Lea (Phil) Cavuoto and Tyler Hinaman; devoted daughter of the late Anthony and Jean Adams; dear sister of Gary (late Lynn) Adams and the late David (Heather) Adams; sister-in-law of AJ (Janice) and Gregory Hinaman; cherished aunt of Lindsay (fiance Jake), Kelsey, Jessica, Jasmine and Jennifer; also survived by many special relatives and friends, and her loving dog, Frankie. She will be greatly missed by all that knew her. Family and friends are invited to please join in the Celebration of Life for Tricia on Sunday, March 6th, from 3-6 PM at Wurlitzer Events, 908 Niagara Falls Blvd., North Tonawanda, NY 14120. In lieu of flowers, donations in Tricia's memory may be made to Donate Life America at https://www.donatelife.net/. Share condolences at www.KOLANOFUNERALHOME.com.
Elsa F. (nee Ferguson) Peters - Of Grand Island, NY, February 15, 2022. Beloved wife of Richard F. Peters; dearest mother of Amy P. Meredith and Greg R. Peters; loving grandmother of Nicholas P. Meredith; sister of Ralph Ferguson, Jr.; also survived by nieces and nephews. No prior visitation. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements entrusted to: ERIE COUNTY CREMATION SERVICE, 824-6435. Please share your condolences at: www.eriecountycremationservice.com.
Maureen L. Stetter - February 14, 2022; of Grand Island, NY, age 62. Beloved daughter of the late John and Florence (nee Bissonette) Stetter; dearest sister of Eileen Smith and Dennis (Karen) Stetter; also survived by nine nieces and nephews. The family will be present Tuesday morning from 9:00-10:15 AM at the (Cleveland Drive Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 569 Cleveland Drive, where prayers will be said at 10:15 AM followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Aloysius Gonzaga Church at 11:00 AM. Interment at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. If desired, contributions may be made in Maureen's memory to People, Inc. Share condolences at www.AMIGONE.com.
Carlton R. Schutt - February 12, 2022, of Grand Island. Husband of Lynn A. Schutt; father of Nadene Franklin, Charles (the late Tanya) Schutt Sr., Karen (Reed) Wright, Terry (Nicole) Yensan, and Tracy (Scott) Pufpaff; grandfather of Gabriel, Jaydon (Bailey), Benjamin, Starr and Zechariah Franklin, Sasha (Mark) Marinaccio, Charles II (Elizabeth) and Matthew (Hannah) Schutt, Alexander and Jaimen Wright, Amanda Albertson, Sean and Steven Pufpaff, and Parker Yensan; great-grandfather of Quinn Schutt. Predeceased by six siblings. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Friday, February 25, 5-8 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, where Memorial Services will be held Saturday, February 26 at 10 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hearts For The Homeless or Buddy's Second Chance Rescue. Share condolences at www.kaiserfuneral.com.
Charles L. Basten- February 12, 2022, of Grand Island. Husband of Erika (nee Asbach) Basten. Father of Charles Basten and Jessica (Lyndell) Baggett. Grandfather of Shane Basten, Avery and Addelee Baggett. Brother of the late Linda Basten. Friends may call Tuesday, 4-7 PM, at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral Services will be held Wednesday, at 11 AM, at Cornerstone Church, 1290 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Robert C. Fox- Of Grand Island, NY, ascended into heaven February 10, 2022. Beloved husband of 60 years to Anne M. (DesJardins) Fox; dearest father of Kellie A. (late Michael) McKinley, Colleen M. (David) Greiner and Kathleen L. (David) Dulak; grandfather of Kaela Cwayna, Thomas (Allison) Greiner, Ryan (Michaela) McKinley, Kaitlyn Greiner and the late Kristopher Cwayna; great-grandfather of Ayden, Rylee, Rylen and Ridge. The family will be present Thursday, February 17, 2022 from 8:30-10 AM at St. Mary of the Cataract Church, 237 4th St., Niagara Falls, NY, where a Mass of Christian Burial will immediately follow at 10 AM. Mr. Fox was a U.S. Navy Veteran. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the VA Medical Center or Hospice Buffalo, Inc. Arrangements by: ERIE COUNTY CREMATION SERVICE, 824-6435. Please share your memories and online condolences at: www.eriecountycremationservice.com.
Dorothy L. Bitner - February 9, 2022, of Grand Island. Dorothy was a veteran discharged in September 1945 from the US Army WAC Reserves. She was in the US Coast Guard Auxiliary since 1973 as a Flotilla Commander. She was cofounder 35 years ago of the Grand Island Traffic Safety Advisory Board and a volunteer with the Community Emergency Response Team. She also chaired the Traffic Safety Board in Grand Island for many years. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Bible Fellowship Center, 1136 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, where memorial services will be held Friday, March 18 at 1 PM. Please share your memories and online condolences at www.kaiserfuneral.com.
Patricia M. (nee Gonda) Maracle - Of Grand Island, NY, February 8, 2022.Beloved wife of the late John R. Maracle. Dear mother of John (Nancy), Maracle, Desiree (late David) Jones-Ransom, Patrick (Shannon) Maracle and the late Sheryl Nichols. Loving grandmother of Gabrielle, Casey, Mitchell, Jackielynn, Robert and Alyssa; also survived by great-grandchildren. Friends may call Tuesday, 3-7 PM, at the LESTER H. WEDEKINDT, INC., FUNERAL HOME, 3290 Delaware Ave., where a Funeral Service will be held at 6:30 PM. Please share condolences online at www.lesterwedekindtfuneralhome.com.
Richard D. Titterington - Formerly of Grand Island, entered into rest December 15, 2021. Beloved husband of the late Carolyn (Archer).Devoted father of Craig (Debbie) who is the son of the late Sally Nettleton Titterington; also, the cherished grandfather of Jace and Austin Titterington. Service will be held February 12, 2022, at Palm Northwest Mortuary Chapel, Las Vegas, Nevada. Condolences may be sent to www.DignityMemorial.com.
Jason W. Bleistein - Of Grand Island, Hamburg and Onoville, unexpectedly February 8, 2022. Loving father of Harrison; beloved son of Brian (Sandy) Bleistein and Jennifer (Richard) Hinkle; dear brother of Ashley (Jessie) Petit, Bethann Kosowski, Christopher (Jennifer) Kosowski, Stephen (Jayme) Hinkle, Joseph (Heather) Hinkle, Jennifer Mixon and Richard (Jesslyn) Hinkle III; adored grandson of Mollie (late Donald) Bleistein, Jack (late Julia) Siller, Lucy Hinkle, Mary (late Richard) Hinkle and the late Edwin (late Joan) Herr; also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, family and friends. Family will be present to receive friends Saturday from 2-6 PM at the (Hamburg Chapel) JOHN J. KACZOR FUNERAL HOME, INC., 5453 Southwestern Blvd. (corner of Rogers Rd., 716-646-5555), where a Memorial Service will follow at 6 PM. Jason was an exempt member of Lake Shore Vol. Fire Dept. Share condolences at www.kaczorfunerals.com.
Barbara Ann Finn - Age 88, of Grand Island, passed away on Tuesday, February 8, 2022 at Elderwood at Grand Island. Born in Jamaica, New York on March 26, 1933, daughter of the late Joseph and Loretta Marasi (Ackerman). Barbara attended Mount St Mary Academy and later completed her Bachelor's degree in education at D'Youville College. Barbara will be remembered as the loving wife of Thomas Finn (deceased), married for 61 years. Barbara had a passion for creating all things beautiful and it was evident in every aspect in her life. She was graced with many talents that were demonstrated through her career as a gifted teacher in both private and public schools throughout Western NY. Barbara took on new challenges as an educator with helping launch special programs for stretching young minds. She enjoyed travel, gardening, sewing, and spending time with her family. She was such an amazing Mom to her seven children: Kathleen (Peter) Winzig, Molly Beyer, Patrick (Amy) Finn, Kelly (Mark) Vettraino, Colleen (Robert) O'Donnell, Kevin (Maria) Finn, and Kerry (Jackie) Finn; 16 grandchildren and seven and 2/3 great-grandchildren. Friends may call on Friday, 3-7 PM, at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, at 11 AM, at St. Stephen's Church. Flowers welcome or donate to the Society of the Little Flower, www.littleflower.org. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Harlan Den Beste - 89, of Perry, Iowa passed away Monday, Jan. 10, 2022, at the Dallas County Hospital in Perry, Iowa. Funeral services were held Thursday, Jan. 20 at the First United Methodist Church in Perry. Harlan E. Den Beste was born in the small town of Sibley, the son of Henry Gerrit and Margaret Van Der Wilt Den Beste. During his formative years, he went to Sibley school system and graduated in 1950. He also participated in school plays, band, choir, glee club as well as football, basketball and track. He received scholarships for athletics and music to Northwestern Junior College in Orange City, Iowa.
After graduation from NJC, he married his high school sweetheart, Amelia Ann Jeffries, in Sioux City, Iowa, during the polio epidemic of 1952. He and his bride then moved to Holland, Michigan, where he attended Hope College for one year. During that summer, Harlan was called into service for his country with the U.S. Army. He served the majority of that time as a radio operator in the country of Panama. Following his honorable discharge, with the help of the GI bill he was able to finish his college education and obtained his BS degree in Chemistry from Morningside College in Sioux City. He then obtained his MS degree at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln in physiology. While there he was involved in a research project on the development of heart transplants. In addition, graduate work was done at the University of Iowa in Iowa City, the George Washington University in Washington, D.C., and the University of Maryland in College Park, Maryland.
During his time at the University of Iowa, he was offered a position as lead scientist with the American Type Culture Collection in Washington, DC. They did not have appropriate laboratories, so he was assigned to be a guest scientist at the Tissue Culture Section of the National Cancer Institute in Bethesda, Maryland. While there he was the author and co-author of several scientific papers and also gave oral presentations.
Harlan accepted a position as director of quality control at the Grand Island Biological Company (GIBCO) in Grand Island, N.Y. Other positions held at GIBCO/a division of the Dexter Corp. were vice president of customer service and later vice president of operations. At that time he not only was in charge of the GIBCO operations but also oversaw the operations of the St. Louis Serum Operation in St. Louis as well as their operations in Mexico City. Additionally, he oversaw the small animal facility and the microbiological operation in Madison, Wisconsin. He was also on the GIBCO/Biocult Board of Directors for their European Operation in Glasgow, Scotland, and their European Distribution Center in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. He traveled extensively in these positions to many countries, including Scotland, England, Netherlands, Denmark, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Mexico and Japan.
Harlan was eventually named vice president, chief operation officer and site manager for the Grand Island Operations, which included another division, the Invenex Pharmaceutical Co. During this time, he was a member of the American Cell Biology Association, the Tissue Culture, Cryobiology Society, the American Red Cross, the Grand Island Rotary Club, the Grand Island Neighbors Foundation and others.
While in Grand Island, he became very involved in the community. He was president of Rotary, president of the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce, district representative for the Rotary Club, co-founder of the Grand Island Neighbors Foundation, president of the Grand Island Board of Education and president of the Session for the Island United Presbyterian Church, among other things. Subsequently, Harlan left that position to become president of Flow Laboratories in McLean, Virginia. He then became vice president of operations for Cell Culture Laboratories in Cleveland, Ohio. Next came vice president of operations for Summit Biological Co.
Following all this, he retired and set up a consulting company, Innovation Concepts. He was successful in assisting several companies, including the Centennial Corp. and Nova Tech among others. He then officially retired to Las Vegas and later to Laughlin, Nevada. Harlan was very active in the United Methodist Church in Bullhead City, Arizona, where he was finance chairman. He is a member of the VFW, American Legion, AMAC and NRA. He received the Citizen of the Year Award in 1980 in Grand Island. He was a fraternity member of Phi Tau Nu while at Hope College. While living in Laughlin, his wife, Amelia, of nearly 49 years passed away. He then had the joy and responsibility of raising his granddaughter, Tamara, who was 12 years old at that time. After she graduated from high school and was attending college at Arizona State University, Harlan relocated to Rippey, Iowa, in order to spend more time with his daughter, Cindy, and his other granddaughters, Danielle and Courtney.
He intended to remain in Iowa for only a short time, but he met, fell in love with and married Margaret Houseman in Perry in 2012. During his time in Iowa, he became active with the Rippey Lions Club, where he was president. He also joined the United Methodist Church, serving on the SPRC and finance committees. Harlan was preceded in death by his parents, Henry Gerrit and Margaret Gertrude Den Beste; daughter, Cynthia Ann Johnson; brother, Harvey Eugene in infancy; sisters, Glenda Emery and Delores Dick; brother-in-law, Jerry Jeffries; and sister-in-law, Judy Ellett.
He is survived by his wife, Margaret; brother, John (Julie) Den Beste; brothers-in-law, Richard Dick, Earl Emery and Gary Ellett; sister-in-law, Deanna Jeffries; daughters, Gini Claire Den Beste and Lisa (Barry) Willis; step-son, Mark (Lura) Houseman; son-in-law, Dan Johnson; grandchildren, Tamara Den Beste, Danielle Johnson, Courtney Johnson, Megan Gray, Cory Willis, Abigail Cornelius and Ashley Houseman; six great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; many cousins; and lots of friends. He enjoyed spending time with his family, traveling, watching sports on television and researching items on his computer. Memorials will be given to the family for later designation and may be left at the funeral home. Online condolences may be left at www.carrisfuneralhome.com.
Mark C. Zerilli - 63 years old, of Grand Island, passed away on Sunday, February 6, 2022. He was born in the town of Tonawanda, on June 3, 1958, the son of Mary "Sandy" (Malecki) Zerilli and the late Charles Zerilli. After attending local schools, Mark received an Associate's Degree from Bryant & Stratton College. He most recently was employed as a cook at the Grand Island Senior Citizen Center. Marks' favorite past time was fishing the Niagara River. Mark is survived by his mother, Mary "Sandy" (Malecki) Zerilli; his sister, Jennifer (late Brian) Frey; his niece, Sara (Ryan) Samland and four nephews, Chris Wilczek, Brian, Kevin and Blake Frey as well as several cousins. He was predeceased by his sister, Frances Wilczek. Friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial, on Saturday, at 9:30 AM, at St. Stephen's Roman Catholic Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island. If attending, facial coverings are required. Interment in Holy Trinity Cemetery, Lewiston, NY. Arrangements entrusted to THE LABUDA FUNERAL HOME, INC.
Michael John Williams - Mike headed off on his last hunt of the season on February 5, 2022. His trek on this journey will lead him through the beautiful Green Mountains of Vermont where he spent many years hunting, fishing, and traveling off the beaten path. He would like his friends and family to know that when they are enjoying the outdoors they just might catch a sense of the old man in the woods through the whisper of the wind in the trees, the smell of the leaves underfoot, or the beauty of the hawk quietly circling above.
Michael John Williams, age 81, of Wells, VT was the son of John Temple Williams (dec.) and Elizabeth (Cone) Williams (dec.), and was born in Buffalo, NY on January 31, 1941. He passed away on February 5, 2022, with his children by his side.
Mike's legacy and spirit are carried on through his three children: Michael (Lauren) Williams of Pennington, New Jersey; Lisa (Willimas) Jacuzzo of Buffalo, New York; and Amy (Peter) Williams Goodson, of Amherst, Massachusetts; and his loving grandchildren: Jared (Kirsten) Williams, Caitlin Williams, Connor Goodson, McKenna Goodson, and Mateo Jacuzzo.
Mike is brother to Sharon (Williams) Halleen (dec.) and Lynne Williams (dec.). He is survived by sister Patricia (Williams) Meyer, brother John (Ann) Williams, brother David (Laurie) Williams and former spouse Susan (Poole) Humphrey.
At a young age Michael developed a love for the outdoors, which lasted his whole life. An avid huner and fisherman, he worked for many years as a licensed New York State Guide and could be found hunting and fishing in Bliss, New York, Short Tract, New York, and Poultney, Vermont.
Mike had a wonderful sense of humor, was very interested in the lives of his children and grandchildren, and cherished his tiime with all his family and friends. He also was a salt-of-the-earth, non-nonsense guy who believed in always doing the right thing - even when it was the hardest thing; working hard but also slowing down to appreciate the little things in life. Mike was loved by many and a solid friend to those he crossed paths with. Even though he would often lament that he was born 100 years too late, his family and friends were so very blessed that he was born at just the right time to enrich their lives. If in honor of Mike you would like to make a donation, please consider donating to the Parkinson's Foundation, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, or the Wild Turkey Federation.
Robert Duncan Smith - February 4, 2022, of Grand Island, formerly of Niagara Falls, NY. Beloved husband of 57 years of Margaret Smith. Loving father of Heather (Mark) Procknal, Duncan (Beth) Smith and Alison (Brian) DeGlopper. Cherished grandfather of Hillary (Ryan) Mosso, Elizabeth Figler, Ella and Lucas Smith, Dylan and Megan DeGlopper. Brother of Sheila Heinze. Friends may call Sunday, February 6th, 4-7 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, NY. Funeral Services will be held Monday at 10 AM at First Presbyterian Church, 311 1st St., Niagara Falls, NY. Please share your memories and online condolences at www.kaiserfuneral.com.
Paul W. Henderson October 10, 1960 - February 24, 2022; beloved husband of Kelly Henderson (nee Borseth); dearest father of Nicole (Gregory) Nabozny and Natalie Henderson; devoted Papa to Stella and Hazel Nabozny; dear son of David W. and Judith M. (nee Greenwood) Henderson; dear brother Terri Henderson, Mary Goris and Beth Henderson; dear son-in-law of Jim and Winnie Borseth; brother-in-law of Jeffrey (Nadine) Borseth and Lisa (Dale) Micheletti and Andy (Jill) Borseth; also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, and friends. The family will be present Thursday, March 3rd from 4 to 8 PM at the (Tonawanda Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 2600 Sheridan Drive (corner Parker Blvd.). Share condolences online at www.AMIGONE.com
Judith C. (nee LaBelle) Prior - January 26, 2022, of Grand Island. Wife of 53 years of Gregory Prior. Mother of Julie (Wayne) Carnall, Jacqueline (David) Vanoni, Jeanne (Jeffrey) Frescino, Janet Schuster and Debra (Robert) Hennessy. Also survived by 17 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, two nieces and one nephew. Sister of Jeanne (the late Allan) Robinson. Friends may call Friday, January 28, 2-4 and 6-8 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday at 9:30 AM at St. Stephen's Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the SPCA. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Vincenette F. "Vinnie" Marcantonio - 82, of Grand Island, NY, passed away on January 21, 2022, at Elderwood of Grand Island. Born in Niagara Falls, NY, she was the daughter of the late Dominick and Rose (Ullo) Scibetta. On January 14, 1961, she married Antonio E. "Elio" Marcantonio at St. Joseph Church in Niagara Falls. In addition to her husband of 61 years, Vincenette is survived by her children, Angelo A. (Amy) Marcantonio, Dominick V. (Michael McDonough) Marcantonio, Dr. Raffaella M. (Dr. Marshall Lim) Marcantonio, and Rose Mary (Theresa Colosi) Marcantonio; her grandchildren, Gianna (fiancé Michael) Buckley, Alicia Marcantonio, Hayden Colosi-Marcantonio, Antonio Lim, Bella Grace Lim, Sofia Lim and Emmanuel Lim, as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by her siblings, Paul (late Doris) Scibetta, Josephine "Honey" (late Frank, NFFD Retired) Bongiovanni, and Joseph Scibetta (late Michael Delahunt). Visitation will be held on Friday, January 28, from 4-8 PM, at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY, 14304. Vincenette's Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, at 11 AM, at St. Stephen R.C. Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island, NY 14072. Interment in St. Joseph Cemetery, Niagara Falls, NY. If desired, memorial offerings may be made to Our Lady of Fatima Shrine, 1023 Swann Road, Youngstown, NY 14174. For online condolences, please visit www.mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com.
Richard T. Mata - Of Grand Island, NY, unexpectedly, January 22, 2022. Beloved husband of Elizabeth J. Blundell; loving father of Elsa Selina and Angelina Hope; dearest son of Richard and Dana (nee DePasquale) Mata; dear brother of Brian (Amanda) Mata; cherished uncle of Samuel "Jorge" and Annabelle Mata; adored grandson of Angela Mata; son-in-law of Nancy Brennan; also survived by a large loving family and many dear friends. Family will be present to receive friends Thursday, 2-8 PM, at the (Hamburg Chapel) JOHN J. KACZOR FUNERAL HOME, INC., 5453 Southwestern Blvd. (corner of Rogers Rd. 716-646-5555). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday morning at 10:30 AM, at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 4263 St. Francis Dr., Hamburg, NY 14075. (Please assemble at Church). In lieu of flowers and in honor of Rich's giving heart, please make a donation to your favorite charity in Rich's memory. Share condolences at www.kaczorfunerals.com.
Richard B. Johnson - Of Grand Island, entered into rest January 18, 2022. Beloved husband of JoAnn (nee Gullo) Johnson; devoted father of Joseph Beasley, Scott Hemperly, Tracey (late William) Crouse and Doris Beasley; cherished grandfather of Russell, Matthew, Brandon, Kayla, Wesley, Vanessa, Celeste and great-grandfather of Ethan, Alex, Noah, Roman, Jaxson and Jonah Richard; loving son of the late Carl and Jane Johnson; dear brother of Cheryl (Paul) Moss and the late Eric (Jackie) Johnson, Kenneth (Sharon) Johnson and Karen (Gerald) Hilfiker; adored brother-in-law of Bob (Debbie) Keen; also survived by nieces, nephews and his furry friends. Relatives and friends may visit the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northtowns Chapel), 885 Niagara Falls Blvd., near Eggert/Sheridan Dr., on Wednesday (January 26th), from 4-8 PM. Online condolences may be made at www.lombardofuneralhome.com.
Mary A. Quinn - mother of Mary Pierre (Gene) Quinn-Stanbro, Frank (late Jolynn) Quinn, Kim (Steve) Rebmann, Faith (Mark) Lemke, Ken Quinn, Joe (Jeni) Quinn, John (Lindsay) Quinn, Christian Quinn, Mary Grace (Jim) Battaglia, and Kelly (John) Arnone; cherished grandmother of 18 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren; dear sister of Joe (late Laurene) Lipiec, Andrea (John) Thiele, Kathy (Lew) Kane, Stan (Lisa) Lipiec, Ken (Pat) Lipiec, Donna (late Mel) Riches and the late Pat Mohr and Andrew Lipiec; also survived by loving family and friends. The family will be present Wednesday, January 26, from 4-8 PM, at KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island. Family and friends are invited to assemble Thursday, January 27, at 9:30 AM, at St. Stephen Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Grand Island Golden Age Center. Share condolences at www.kaiserfuneral.com.
James L. Fire Jr. - January 15, 2022, of Grand Island. Father of Selena Marie Fire. Love of his life, Mallery Fire. Son of Judith (nee Litten) and Donald Kezar, of Grand Island. Stepbrother of Christopher (Cathy) Kezar, of Virginia. Also survived by aunts, uncles, and cousins. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family. Memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo. Share condolences at www.kaiserfuneral.com.
Ronald August Stanke - Entered eternal rest on January 15, 2022, after being hospitalized at Mercy Hospital, Buffalo, for a brief illness. Ron, born on November 9, 1940, in Buffalo, was predeceased by his parents, Angeline (Mroz) and August Frederick Stanke. Ron served with the US Navy on the USS Mt. McKinley and was an avid boater. Upon discharge from the Navy, he began employment with Trico in Buffalo. In 1991, Ron founded Grand Island Enterprises. He was a retired, long-standing resident of Grand Island. As a Philanthropist whose generosity reached many Grand Island and Western New York community service organizations, Ron played a significant role in the development and support of the Miracle League WNY and the Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial Expansion. He was a long-standing member of the Rotary Club of Grand Island. Additionally, he assisted the Neighbors Foundation, the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo, the Zonta Foundation, and many other charities. Above all, one of Ron's most notable traits was his deep loyalty to his friends and the community. Flowers are graciously declined. Those who wish to remember Ron in a particular way are invited to make gifts in his memory to any of the groups named above. Visitation will be at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, on Saturday, January 22, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. A memorial service will begin immediately following visitation at 5 p.m. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Jacqueline Marie Nowakowski - age 78, peacefully joined her heavenly Father on Sunday, January 9, 2022. Jackie, as she was known to family and friends, was born in Buffalo, New York to Jack A. and Ethel N. (Arcangel) Kelleher on July 17, 1943. On August 14, 1965, she married Anthony J. Nowakowski in Kenmore, NY.
Jackie was a wonderfully loving and generous wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, friend, and servant of God. She taught fifth grade for three years, then resigned her position to love and serve her family. In the late 1970’s she dedicated her life to the Lord and from that point on, it was her life’s mission to serve Him and be the hands and feet of Jesus. She ministered to family and friends, those with addictions, and those in prison. It was her desire to carry out God’s will. Jackie truly loved the Lord, her family, people, animals, and sitting by the river.
Anyone who knew her, loved her, was loved by her, and their lives were forever changed for the better. We know she is at home with Jesus worshipping at His feet. She will be dearly missed by all, but never forgotten.
In addition to her devoted husband of 56 years, Anthony, Jackie is survived by two children, Nicole (Bob) Oursler and Erik (Debbie) Nowakowski; four grandsons, Kyle (Jamie) Oursler, Sam Oursler, Ryan Nowakowski, and Jason Nowakowski; two great-grandsons Connor and Landon Oursler; and her sister Colleen (David) Spencer. She is also survived by many nephews, nieces, and cousins.
Private funeral services and interment in Whitehaven Cemetery, Grand Island, NY, were held for the immediate family. Friends and family are invited to a future Celebration of Life on Saturday, June 11 at 1:00 PM at First Assembly of God, 9750 Niagara Falls Boulevard, Niagara Falls, NY 14304. Arrangements by M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.
Robert Priest - January 12, 2022, of the City of Tonawanda, formerly of Grand Island. Husband of Sharon (nee Scaccia) Priest; father of Adam and Mark Priest and Lauren (Donald) Pionessa; also survived by five grandchildren; brother of Diane DiLucca, James (Patti) and Bridgette Priest. Friends may call Friday 3-7 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday at 9:30 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
David B. Crockett - Age 79, of Grand Island and formerly of the City of Tonawanda, January 10, 2022. Husband of 49 years to Patricia J. (nee Kennedy) Crockett; father of Timothy (Jennifer) Crockett and Melissa Crockett Simpson; papa of Evan and Taylor; son of the late Voris and Bonetta Crockett and brother of Nancy Cole-Neiswonger and the late Keith Crockett. Also survived by nieces and nephews. David was a 1960 graduate of Tonawanda High School where he excelled in football and baseball. He was a life member of the Niagara Hose Volunteer Fire Co. and the Gastown Sportsmen Club. Dave was also an avid hunter and instructed the NYS Hunters Safety Course for many years. The family will receive relatives and friends on Friday, January 14th, from 2:30 PM until 5:30 PM, at JOHN O. ROTH FUNERAL HOME, INC., 25 William St. (between Morgan and Broad Sts), in Tonawanda, where a Memorial Service will be held on Friday, at 5:30 PM, following the visitation. Everyone welcome to attend. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in memory of David may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or to the charity of your choice. Condolences may be shared at www.ROTHFUNERAL.com.
James P. Mitchell - January 5, 2022, of Grand Island. Husband of the late Alma Mitchell. Father of Pamela and John (Barbara) Mitchell. Brother of John G. Mitchell. Son of the late John and Ora (nee Sarmanote) Mitchell. Funeral Services will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Schoellkopf Health Center, 621 10th St., Niagara Falls, NY 14301. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Russell R. Galbo, Jr. - January 5, 2022; of Grand Island. Husband of Jackie (nee Williams) Galbo. Father of Jennifer A. Galbo. Grandfather of Nicholas, Daniel and Alexander Przybylski. Brother of Deborah (Michael) Klodzinski and the late Mary (the late Frank) Sturniolo and JoAnn (the late Anthony) Sturniolo. Son of the late Loretta and Russell R. Galbo, Sr. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be private. Share online condolences at: www.kaiserfuneral.com.
Frank J. Spinner - November 29, 2021, of Grand Island. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Saturday, January 15, at 11:00 AM, at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island.
Frank J. Spinner went home to rest peacefully on 11/29/2021. He left behind his loving wife of 70 years, Joanne L Spinner, his four children, Frank, Michael, (Edith) Suzanne and Richard, grand children, John Michael, Sara, Hillary, ( Jeremy Gohranson), three great grandchildren, Hayden, Sebastian and Greyson. Loving brother in law Ronald and sister in-law Sharon Louchren. Frank was a very proud Marine an active veteran in all affairs. An active member in the alumni Association of State Teachers College and Nights of Columbus. He volunteered with Meals on Wheels and Excalibur for over 30 years. He was an avid bowler, ( his immense passion). He retired from the Niagara Falls School System. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Buffalo News Obituary by Dale Anderson
Feb. 27, 1928 – Nov. 29, 2021
Frank J. Spinner did not sit still after he retired from teaching. For more than 30 years, he was a volunteer driver for Meals on Wheels, plowing through snowstorms if necessary to make deliveries to the homebound. A gardener himself, he was a judge for Buffalo in Bloom, inspecting gardens and recommending them for awards. With his wife, he ushered at Shea’s Performing Arts Center. He also volunteered for Excalibur, which provides adoptive boating and fishing for people with disabilities. He manned Excalibur’s booth every summer at the Erie County Fair. A history buff, he collected coins, stamps and medals, visiting trade shows and conventions. He maintained a complete woodworking shop in his basement, producing furniture and creating mantlepieces. He also competed three times a week as a league bowler. He died Nov. 29 under hospice care in his Grand Island home. He was 93.
Born in Buffalo, he was the only child of German immigrants and spoke German at home. He was an Eagle Scout and a 1948 graduate of East High School. While earning a bachelor’s degree from Buffalo State Teachers College, he worked as a drapery specialist at Hengerer’s department store in downtown Buffalo. He went on to complete two master’s degrees at Buffalo State.
He married a Buffalo State classmate, Joanne Louchren in 1952, and enlisted in the Marine Corps. He became an officer and served stateside at Camp Lejune, N.C. Mr. Spinner returned to Buffalo, worked as a manager at F. N. Burt Co., then taught woodworking shop and other trade-related classes for 24 years in Niagara Falls, first at LaSalle High School and then at Trott Vocational High School, where he employed his passion for photography as faculty adviser for the yearbook. He retired in 1988. He had a home built on Grand Island in the 1950s, helped establish Little League baseball there and coached for many years. After moving to a home across from Delaware Park in the 1970s, he volunteered at the Buffalo Psychiatric Center and was active in the Erie County Historical Society. He moved back to Grand Island about 20 years ago.
A longtime parishioner at St. Stephen’s Catholic Church, he volunteered on maintenance projects. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Buffalo State College Alumni Association. In addition to his wife, a retired Buffalo special education teacher; survivors include three sons, Frank, Michael and Richard; a daughter, Suzanne Spinner; three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. A Memorial Mass with military honors will be offered at 11 a.m. Saturday in St. Stephen’s Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island
Audrey (nee Dizillo) Ungaro - January 4, 2022, of Grand Island. Wife of 59 years of the late Sebastian Richard Ungaro; mother of Deborah (Donald) Fabian, Richard (Kim), Michael (Michele) and David (Mary) Ungaro; also survived by 10 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren; sister of Rosalie "Rolly" (Patrick) Dinan and Joseph (the late Theresa "Chickie") DiZillo; daughter of the late John and Lena DiZillo. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, January 7th, at 11 AM at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island (live streaming at ststephenswny.com). In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com
