DEATHS - 2008
January - June

Previous Death Notices

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    Felicia C. (nee Niemiec) DeMartin, July 11, 2008, 75, of Grand Island, after a long illness. Wife of Everest E. DeMartin; mother of Denise (Al) Ricotta, Thomas (Kathy) and Michael (Karen) DeMartin; sister of the late Frances Vince; also survived by nine grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Respecting her wishes there will be no visitation and services will be cared for privately. Interment at St. Stephens Cemetery Grand Island. If desired memorials to Our Lady of Fatima Shrine or Canine Helpers of WNY are preferred. Arrangements by LABUDA FUNERAL HOME INC., Niagara Falls, NY.

    Catherine Ann Lecksell, formerly of Grand Island, NY and Niagara Falls, NY, July 8, 2008, age 86, mother of Betty Jane (David) Reilly, Richard W. (Georgia) Lecksell, Robert J. Lecksell and Barbara Jean Carroll; sister of Donald Polito, Rose Kaczowski and Florence White; also survived by four grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, three great-great-grandchildren, several nieces, nephews and cousins. No prior visitation. A Memorial Mass will be held Thursday, July 10 at 9 AM from St. Peters RC Church, 600 Center St., Lewiston, NY. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the SPCA of Niagara County. Arrangements by HARDISON FUNERAL HOMES INC., Lewiston.

    Anthony Genova, July 7, 2008, of Grand Island, formerly of Colorado Springs, CO, husband of the late Josephine (Connelli) Genova; father of Ken A. (Wendy) Genova; grandfather of Bianca and Anthony Genova; brother of Florence Urone, Virginia Habenstein and the late Tom Genova; son of the late Joe and Mary Genova. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Friday, July 11, 2008 at 10 AM at St. Stephens Church, Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association. Mr. Genova was a member of Knights of Columbus Council No. 4752 and VFW Grand Island Post No. 9249.

    Nancy E. DeGlopper, 62, suddenly, July 5, 2008, of Grand Island, beloved wife of H. William DeGlopper, Jr.; loving mother of Deborah S. (Kenneth) Robinson, William J. and Brian J. (Alison) DeGlopper; devoted grandmother of Matthew and Heather Robinson, Dylan and Megan DeGlopper; sister of Jack (Raenota) Merrill and Susan (Lewis) Rozelle; daughter of the late Carl and Laura Merrill. Friends may call Tuesday, July 8 from 6-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Memorial Services will be held Wednesday, July 9 at 11:00 AM at Trinity United Methodist Church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to The American Heart Assn. or The Trinity Church Organ Fund. See also Niagara Gazette Notice


    Helen K. Jarosz, July 4, 2008 of Grand Island, NY; formerly of Beckley, WV; daughter of the late Michael and Eva Jarosz; sister of the late Anna Skindell, Mary Relosky and John Jarosz; also survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. Friends may call Sunday, July 6, 2008 from 3-6 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, July 7th at 10:00 AM at St. Stephens Church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to St. Stephens Church for masses.

    Dorothy M. Lane, 86, of Colonial Drive, E., Grand Island, died Wednesday, July 2, 2008 in Niagara Rehab and Nursing Care Center. Wife of the late Oren R. Bud Lane. Mother of Patricia K. (Mark) Weatherston of Grand Island and the late James T. Lane. Sister of the late Marion Ross. Grandmother of three grandchildren, Amanda, Christopher and Jimmy, one great grandson, Gavin James and aunt of six nieces and nephews. Friends may call Monday, July 7th from 11 AM until 1 PM in the LANE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 8622 Buffalo Avenue, where Funeral services will be held at 1 PM with the Rev. Laura Norris - Buisch officiating. Interment will be in Riverdale Cemetery, Lewiston, NY.

    Helen M. (Black) Jarzyniecki, of Grand Island, died June 27, 2008. Beloved wife of the late Ronald Jarzyniecki; cherished mother of Lynn (Jari) Bakkila, David (Tina) Jarzyniecki, Wendy (Rick) Mentecky and the late Ronald Jarzyniecki; adored grandmother of Jessica, Emily, Joshua, Madeline, David Justin, Michelle, Ronald, Daniel and Cassandra; dear sister of William (Cindy) Black and the late Elizabeth Bauer. She will be greatly missed by many nieces, nephews, cousins and wonderful friends and neighbors. Friends may call Monday, June 30, 2008 from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday, July 1 at 10 a.m. at St. Stephen’s Church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.

   Anna Samel, (1922-2008) passed away Thursday, June 26, 2008 in Kenmore Mercy Hospital following a heart attack. Friends may call from 9-11 a.m. Monday, June 30 at Lane Funeral Home, Buffalo Avenue, Niagara Falls. The funeral will follow at 11 a.m. to 12 noon. Mrs. Samel was an immigrant from Slovakia and lived most of her life in the Buffalo area. She had a full and interesting life and was the true matriarch of the family. She is survived by her daughters, Helen Czapla and Susan Hahn, both from Grand Island, and her daughter, Margie Kelly, of Michigan. She has seven grandchildren including Cynthia Czapla, Anna Czarples, Lindsay Hahn, and Nick Hahn, all of Grand Island.

    Dominic A. Bianca, June 25, 2008, of Grand Island; husband of Janet (McCoy) Bianca; father of Mary Ann Bruner of Grand Island and the late Rose Marie (survived by husband Fred) LaRock; grandfather of Kim Marie Syruws, Toni Sue Merante, Christine (James) Malinowski, Richelle Bruner and Richard A. Bruner Jr.; also survived by seven great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews; brother of Sarah DePasquale; predeceased by nine brothers and sisters; son of the late John and Speranza Hope Bianca. Friends may call Sunday, June 29 from 2-7 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to Grand Island Neighbors Foundation, PO Box 155, Grand Island 14072 or St. Stephen’s Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, June 30 at 10 AM.

    Irene E. (nee Agrawal) Witkowski, September 29, 1939 - June 9, 2008, Irene E. Witkowski Agrawal, of Grand Island, NY; passed away Monday morning in the Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center after an accidental fall and a short illness. She was 68. Irene Agrawal was born in Niagara Falls, NY. She is the daughter of the late Dr. & Mrs. John S. Witkowski, MD and Agnes M. (Kubala) of Niagara Falls, NY. Irene graduated from Niagara Falls High School and went on to receive her Bachelors and Masters in Science degrees from State University of New York in Albany in 1962. She was a founding member of DELTA PI EPSILON, a National Honorary Society of Alpha Mu Chapter. Irene started her professional career as a Business Teacher in Niagara Falls High School in 1962 and went to teach in Niagara Falls Community College as Assistant Professor of Secretarial Science in 1967. She moved to Massachusetts with her husband in 1972 and taught at Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts as an Instructor of Clerical Skills. Irene started a computer business with her husband, Prabhakar Agrawal, a Computer Systems Engineer, in Worcester, Massachusetts in 1977. She remained self-employed in her business until 1999 when she decided to retire from it. In 1999, she moved to her house in Grand Island, New York which she had built with her husband in 1996. Irene had a passion for home decorating and organizing. She had exceptional Business Communication skills. She insisted in writing with correct grammar and simple sentences that are clear and easy to read. She was a great organizer of business files. She was the essential part in the success of her business with her husband Prabhakar, who has been continuing to run their business in Worcester, Massachusetts from their home in Grand Island, NY. Irene is survived by her husband Prabhakar; her sister Agnes J. Witkowski of Niagara Falls, New York; and, her brother and his wife Jack S. Witkowski and Linda L. Witkowski of Niskayuna, NY. Burial ceremony was performed on June 13, 2008 in the St. Stanislaus R. C. Cemetery in Cheektowaga, NY by ZAJAC FUNERAL HOME of Niagara Falls, NY. A delayed memorial service will be performed on Monday, June 30, 2008 at 10 AM in Our Lady Help of Christians R.C. Church, at 4125 Union Road, Cheektowaga, NY. Family and friends are all invited to attend and are most welcome.

 Alice Louise Becky Goodwin. There will be a Memorial Service at Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island, on Saturday, June 28, 2008, beginning at 11:30 AM. A long time resident of Grand Island, Becky passed away on April 11, 2008 in New Jersey where she had been living for three years to be close to family members. Son Jerry and daughters Tricia and Thasia will be at the service with their families, and are looking forward to celebrating Becky’s life with her many close friends. A light luncheon for those who attend will follow the service in the Family Room at Trinity. . (Scroll down for previous notice)

    John J. Woodfine, Suddenly June 13, 2008; formerly of Grand Island; father of Colin Mitchell and Garrett Connor Woodfine; son of John H. and Carol A. Woodfine; brother of Chantel Marie Burns. Friends may call Friday 2-4 and 7-8:30 PM followed by funeral services Friday, June 27 at 8:30 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Colin and Garret Woodfine, C/O Chantel Burns, 76 Traymore St., Buffalo, NY 14216.

    Angeline (nee Aloisio) Scalia, - Long time resident of Grand Island, June 19, 2008, age 100, born in Buffalo, she graduated from Buffalo State College and taught for many years in the Buffalo area, at one time she prepared foreigners for their Americanization tests in order to become American citizens, upon her husbands retirement they traveled extensively through Europe, S. America, Canada and Africa, in her spare time she enjoyed doing fancy needlework, baking, fishing and occasionally going to casinos, she was quite proud of the fact that she passed her drivers test when she was close to 70 years of age. She was the wife of the late Leonard Scalia; mother of Paul (Judy) and the late Peter Scalia; sister of Helen Mangone; great-grandmother of Josiah Scalia; also survived by six grandsons, and several nieces and nephews. A memorial mass will be celebrated Saturday, June 28, at 10 AM at St. Stephens Church, 2100 Baseline Rd, Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined.

    Angeline M. (Costello) Amorosi, June 19, 2008, of Grand Island, NY, formerly of Lackawanna, NY, beloved wife of the late Joseph; dearest mother of Joseph (Marilyn), Carl (Jean), Charles (Rachel), Deborah and the late Michael; also survived by four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren; daughter of the late Carl and Mary (nee Tripoli) Costello; sister of Nina (late Antonio) Fatica, Donald (late Marion), Mary Ann Dercole and the late Rose Marie (George) Valuck; also survived by nieces and nephews. Chapel Service from THE COLONIAL MEMORIAL CHAPELS INC., 3003 South Park Ave., Lackawanna, Monday morning, June 23, 2008 at 11. Visitation Sunday, June 22, 2008 only 2-4 and 7-9 PM. .

   David J. Meyer, 46, of Grand Island, NY, June 4, 2008; beloved husband of the late Melia M. (Wiseman) Meyer; son of Mary V. (Thomas) and the late Jerry J. Meyer; brother of Michael T. Meyer (Barbara Perrelli) and Susan M. (Kevin) Fisher; also survived by nieces and nephews. No prior visitation. Family and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Mass in memory of David and Melia at St. Gabriels Church, 5211 Clinton St., Elma, NY, Saturday morning at 9. Arrangements by ERIE COUNTY CREMATION SERVICE, 824-6435.


    Irene W. (Wozniak) Piekarski, June 13, 2008, of Grand Island; wife of the late Henry Piekarski; mother of Arlene (David) Ehde of Grand Island and Michael (Barbara) Piekarski of Clifton Park, NY; grandmother of Mark (Judith), Jeffrey (Mary) and Craig (Dana) Ehde and Adam Piekarski; great-grandmother of Christopher and Matthew Ehde and Alexis Syrell. She was gramma to many; sister of the late Adeline (late Stanley) Korabek and Eleanore (late John C.) Doster. No prior visitation. Memorials may be made to the National Kidney Foundation, or St. Stephens Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 10 AM

    Norman A. Lichtenthal, June 9, 2008 of Grand Island. Beloved husband of the late Anna Jane Lichtenthal; father of Andrew (Adelle), John (Cathy) and Dale (Laurie) Lichtenthal; grandfather of Michael, John Jr., Matthew and Katie Anna Lichtenthal; dear friend of Jean Martin; son of the late Norman and Esther (Heichberger) Lichtenthal. Friends may call Thursday, June 12, 2008 from 2-4 and 7-8:30 PM followed by funeral services at 8:30 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to the American Lung Assn. Mr. Lichtenthal was a WW II veteran and retired after over 30 years with New York Telephone.

    Patrick N. Ryan, May 18, 2008 of Grand Island. Dear friend of the late Jan Hill. Funeral services private. Interment at Whitehaven Cemetery, Grand Island. Arrangements by KAISER FUNERAL HOME.

    Margaret J. (nee Sowa) PeggyMay Osinski, May 26, 2008 of Ormond Beach, FL and Grand Island. Wife of Joseph G. Osinski; mother of Joseph A. II (Tracy), Susan M. and Matthew S. (Heidi) Osinski; grandmother of Gabrielle, Austin, Matthew and Jerrime; daughter of the late Stanley and Rita Sowa. Friends may call Sunday, June 1, 2008 from 3-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, June 2 at 10 AM at St. Stephen’s Church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to the American Red Cross (Niagara Falls Chapter) or the SPCA. Mrs. Osinski was a graduate of the Mercy School of Nursing and was a Registered Nurse at General Motors, Kenmore Mercy Hospital and later was a Certified Occupational Health Nurse at Nabisco and Bell Aerospace.

    John T. “Jack” O’Mara, May 29, 2008, former Grand Island, NY resident died in Florida at age 69; dear father of Kevin (Brenda) Schendel of St. Cloud, FL and Colleen Jackson of Kennewick, WA; grandfather of Jaqueline and Andrew Schendel, and Sydney Jackson; brother of M. Beryl (late Edward) Kinney and the late Raymond J. O'Mara Jr.; uncle of Karen Cadella, Kevin, Keith, Kirk and Kyle Kinney; son of the late Mary K. (O'Donnell) and Raymond J. O'Mara. Friends may call Friday, June 13, 4-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Saturday, June 14 at 10:00 AM at St. Stephens Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to the Grand Island Fire Company.

    James F. “Jim” Atkinson Jr., 73, of Grand Island, formerly of Niagara Falls, May 24, 2008, after a lengthy illness; husband of 54 years of Ermina M. (Blank) Atkinson; father of James (Caryn), Brian (Jill) and Mary Atkinson, all of Grand Island, Timothy (Paula) Atkinson of Winchester, VA and Karen (Nick) Mercorella of Fremont, OH; brother of Tom and Robert (Jeanette) Atkinson and Sandra (Frank) Rowland; also survived by 10 grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Wednesday, May 28 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island where Memorial Services will be held Thursday at 10 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo or Roswell Park Cancer Institute. Mr. Atkinson was a veteran of the Korean War and formerly Executive Director of the Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Contractors of Erie County and New York State.

    Salvatore G. Capizzi: The friends and family of Salvatore G. Capizzi are invited to a graveside service with military honors on Wednesday, May 28, 2008 at 11:00 AM in the Until The Day Dawn Cemetery in Angelica, NY. Sal died on February 23, 2008 in Wellsville and was a former District Attorney for Allegany County. Salvatore G. Capizzi Death Notice



   John J. Larry, of Grand Island, NY Monday, May 19, 2008, beloved husband of Arlene G. (nee Clement) Larry; devoted father of Mark, Christopher and Michael Larry; beloved son of Donald C. Larry and the late Bernadine (nee Slomba) Larry; dearest brother of Linda Larry and Jane (Gregory) Stromecki; also survived by aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and his many friends; brother-in-law of Joseph (Tana) Clement. The family will be present to greet relatives and friends on Sunday, May 25 from7-9 p.m. and Monday, May 26 from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. at the Sabre Funeral Home, 549 Oliver Street, North Tonawnada (692-0271). A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 9:30 a. m. Tuesday in Our Lady of Czestochowa Catholic Church, Oliver Street and Center Avenue, North Tonawanda. Internment at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Flowers graciously decline. For those who wish, the family requests memorial contributions be made in John's memory to Niagara Hospice or St. Joseph Collegiate Institute Athlete Field Complex, 845 Kenmore Ave., Buffalo, 14223. See Complete Buffalo News Obituary.

    Jane E. (nee McKinnis) Maloney, RN, 48, of Grand Island, NY Wednesday, May 21, 2008 at home after a seven-year battle with cancer. Beloved wife of William B. Maloney III; loving mother of William B. IV and Kelly E. Maloney; dearest daughter of Esther and Asa McKinnis of Tonawanda; sister of John (Carol) McKinnis of Irving, NY; daughter-in-law of William and Joan Maloney; sister-in-law of Patricia and Karen Maloney; also survived by several aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Friends received Friday, May 23, 2008 from 4-8 PM at the GRECO FUNERAL HOME, 2909 Elmwood Ave. (near Sheridan Dr.), where funeral services will be held Saturday, May 24 at 11:00 AM. Friends invited. Online register at www.grecofuneral.com

    Barbara E. (nee Sharpe) Clarke, 67, of Wheatfield, NY, formerly of Grand Island, NY, died on Tuesday, May 20, 2008. Born September 21, 1940, the daughter of the late Allen and Martha (Bergey) Sharpe. On September 16, 1961 she married Gary B. Clarke. Survivors include, her beloved husband of forty-six years; three children, Michael (Carol) Clarke of North Tonawanda, NY; Elizabeth (William) York of Niagara Falls, NY; and Jean Marie (Timothy) Crowder of Hickory, NC; one son-in-law, Robert O. Steinjan of Niagara Falls, NY; eight grandchildren, Michael, Marylynn, Megan and Marty Clarke; Hilary and Emily York; and Lauren and Bobby Steinjan; three brothers and two sisters, Dianne (Bob) Leaf of Ft. Lauderdale, FL; James (Gail) Sharpe of Youngstown, NY; Thomas (Marlene) Sharpe of Niagara Falls, NY; Mary (Thomas) James of Wasola, MO; and Richard (Cindy) Sharpe of Youngstown, NY and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. No prior visitation. A Memorial Mass will be held on Thursday, May 22nd at 11:00 a.m. in St. John de LaSalle Church, 8469 Buffalo Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY with Rev. Lynn Shumay. Inturnment will be held in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Lewiston, NY at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to Niagara Hospice, 4675 Sunset Drive, Lockport, NY 14094. Arrangements were entrusted to the OTTO REDANZ FUNERAL HOME, 2215 Military Rd., Niagara Falls, NY (297-9007). Visit www.ottoredanz.com to view full obituary and to sign guest register.

    Patricia Ann (nee Burns) Kopra, May 17, 2008, of Clarence, NY, formerly of Grand Island, NY. Beloved wife of Stephen F. Kopra; loving mother of Stephen W., Edward and John Kopra; dear daughter of John W. and Marian T. (Kowalczyk) Burns of Grand Island, NY; sister of John P. (Sandy) Burns of Grand Island, NY; Nancy (Mike) Wells of Stow, MA; Terry (Jim) Canavan of Safety Harbor, FL; Kim (Bob) Parasiliti of Horseheads, NY; and Casey Burns of Atlanta, GA; also survived by aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. Friends received Tuesday, May 20, 2008 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at SHEPARD BROS. FUNERAL HOME, 10690 Main Street, Clarence, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday, May 21st at 10 a.m. from Our Lady of Peace Church, 10950 Main Street, Clarence. Pat was a 1976 graduate of Grand Island High School and a 1977 graduate of Bryant & Stranton, and worked for several years at Williams Advance Materials in Buffalo.

    Elisabeth (Eichel) Maerz, of Grand Island, died May 14, 2008; beloved wife of 57 years of Konrad Maerz; mother of Siegfried (Susan) Maerz, Gisela (Peter) Weidelich and Frieda Maerz; grandmother of Nathan (Christina) Maerz, Sigrid (Isaac) Chapman, Dianne Maerz, David, Lindsey, Daniel and Michael Weidelich; sister of John (Barbara) Eichel and Katharina Rauch. Friends may call Sunday, May 18, 2008 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral Services will be held Monday at 11 AM at Whitehaven Road Baptist Church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Roswell Park Cancer Institute or Campus Crusade for Christ.


    Scott S. Stuart, 43, former Grand Island resident, of Baltimore, Maryland and Canton, Connecticut passed away peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday, May 7, 2008. Scott was the Director of Alumni Relations at Loyola College since June of 2007. Prior to this position, he was the director of alumni relations for his alma mater, Niagara University. Scott also had over fifteen years of corporate experience as an executive in the banking industry and as a fund-raising director in the non-profit sector. He held the position of vice president, director of marketing for OBA Bank in Washington, D.C. In this post, he formulated corporate growth strategies and directed and identified marketing programs and opportunities, helping to “re-brand” America’s oldest thrift institution. Earlier, he spent several years working for the Boy Scouts of America in Boston, Mass., and Washington, D.C., as district executive, district director, development director, and director of major gifts. After graduating from Niagara University in 1986 with a bachelor’s degree in commerce/marketing, Scott worked his way up the corporate ladder at M&T Bank to assistant the vice president. Scott enjoyed traveling, backpacking, skiing and winter camping. But first and foremost, he loved his family. He was a devoted son and brother and was happiest when he was around them. He had an infectious spirit and love of life and faith. Scott is survived by his mother Anne Stuart of Canton, Conn; three younger siblings, Brian and his wife Yvonne of Boston, Mass; Sean Stuart of Broad Brook, Conn; and Tracy Stuart of New Canaan, Conn. The wake will be held at Ahern Funeral Home in Unionville, Conn. on Monday, May 12th from 4-7pm. Funeral services will take place at St. Patrick’s Church in Farmington, Conn. on Tuesday, May 13th at 1 p.m. Interment will be held afterwards at the Riverside Cemetery in Farmington, Conn. In lieu of flowers, contact Niagara University for donations to the Scott Stuart Memorial Scholarship fund at (716) 286-8772 or donations addressed to Niagara University in care of the Scott Stuart Memorial Scholarship fund at PO BOX 2008, Niagara University, NY 14109. And to continue to keep his memory alive, the family asks that you pass on a good deed to someone in need.

    Robert L. Roy, 89, passed away Tuesday, April 22, 2008 in Seminole, FL (8/28/18-4/22/08). He moved to the area in 1972 from Grand Island, NY. He was a Captain in the Army Air Corps durning WWII, a member of Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Seminole, member of the Tampa Bay Symphony, Past Commodore at the Sandy Beach Yacht Club in Grand Island, NY. Robert was a true sailor at heart. He is survived by his daughter Marcia Wilkie of Largo; grandchildren Nicole Buscemi, Robert Vance, Jason Wilkie; great-grandchildren, Dante Buscemi and Aiden Buscemi. Predeceased by daughter Roberta.
Posted 1/16/09


   Marija Volaric (Gast), born September 16, 1921, died peacefully in the arms of her children on Wednesday, April 16, 2008 in her hometown of Osijek, Croatia. She was the beloved mother of Zdenka (John) Gast, Nevenka Vukocinovic and Bronko Puljiz and cherished grandmother of Michele Gast, Kelly (James) Petrie, Alen Vukocinovic and Vanesa and Andreja Puljiz. Marija spent many years living with her family on Grand Island, NY. She enjoyed taking walks along East River, cooking for friends and family, and spending time with her grandchildren. She was a survivor of a German labor camp during WWII and the more recent Balkan War. A celebration of her life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 31 at Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Road, with a reception to follow.


    Larry E. Harpster, 60, of Grand Island, NY and formerly of the City of Tonawanda, May 3, 2008 of Kenmore Mercy Hospital under the care of Hospice. Born in Altoona, PA, he had been a resident of Tonawanda for 20 years and of Grand Island for the past 30 years. He is the son of Irene Stango of Tonawanda and the late Ira Eugene Harpster and Michael Anthony Stango. Larry was a 1965 graduate of Tonawanda High School where he was an outstanding football player. In 1998 he was inducted as a 1963 undefeated Football Team member, in the Tonawanda High School Athletic Hall of Fame. He also played for the Twin City Gemini Semi-Pro Football Team. A US Navy veteran of the Viet Nam War, he served on the USS Hancock and USS Bon Homme Richard in the South Pacific. Larry had been employed as a Supervisor for Columbus McKinnon Corp. in Tonawanda for 10 years. He owned and operated Allied Vac and Sewing Center in Kenmore for the past 32 years and was also a Team Coordinator for ACN for the past seven years. He was a member of Kenmore Merchants Assn. and the Buffalo Launch Club. Son of Irene Stango and the late Ira Eugene Harpster and the late Michael Anthony Stango; husband of 33 years of Patricia (nee Colosi) Harpster; father of Dana (Paul) White, Nathan (Kimberly) Harpster, Renee and Ryan Harpster; grandfather of P.J. and Mia White and Emma Harpster; brother of Michael and Mark Stango; also several nieces and nephews. Friends may call Tuesday, May 6, 2008 from 2-8 PM at JOHN O. ROTH FUNERAL HOME, INC., 25 William St. (between Morgan & Broad Sts.) in the City of Tonawanda. Funeral Services will be held in Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 1080 Main St. in Buffalo, Wednesday, May 7 at 10:30 AM. Friends invited. Please assemble at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo, 225 Como Park Blvd., Cheektowaga, NY 14227.

    Betty J. Fritz, 83, May 4, 2008, of Grand Island, wife of the late Alfred L. Fritz, Sr.; mother of Sandra L. (Charles) Burrows, Richard W. Fritz, Mary C. (Gary) Yaeger and the late Alfred L. Fritz, Jr. and Sherry A. (survived by husband, Ron) Duchman; also survived by six grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren; sister of Richard (June) Newcomer. Graveside Services will be held Wednesday, May 7, 2008 at 12 Noon at Whitehaven Cemetery, 3099 East River Rd., Grand Island. Memorials may be made to The Alzheimer's Association of WNY.

    Robert J. Elmes, April 29, 2008 of Grand Island; husband of Nancy W. Elmes; father of Patrick R. (Gwen) of Arlington, TX, Gregory W. of Homer, AK and the late Robert J. Elmes, Jr.; grandfather of Brittany (Christopher) Petruska and Danielle Elmes; brother of Alex (Ruth) Elmes. Friends may call Sunday, May 4, 2008 from 2-6 p.m. at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island, a memorial Mass will be celebrated Monday, May 5 at St. Stephen's Church at 10 a.m. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to the Robert J. Elmes, Jr. Memorial Fund c/o Buffalo State College Relations Office, 1300 Elmwood Ave., Buffalo, NY 14222 or Hospice Buffalo, Robert was a retired Professor of Speech and Communications at Buffalo State College.


    Barbara Ann (Brill) "Barbi" Lare, April 25, 2008 of Grand Island, born July 9, 1933; daughter of the late Donald E. and Dorothy Brill; wife of the late Walter H. Lare; mother of Susanne Lare of Rochester, Donald W. Lare of Amherst, Sandra J. Lare (Roger Trettel) of Grand Island and Rebecca A. (Paul) Jordison of Fredonia; grandmother of Kaeden M., Emily Paige and L. Tannin Jordison and Jonathan Walter Trettel; also survived by several close relatives and friends. Friends may call Tuesday, April 29 from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd, Grand Island and Wednesday, April 30th from 10-12 Noon at St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church, 2587 Baseline Rd, Grand Island, where memorial services will be held Wednesday at 12 Noon. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Martin-in-the-Fields Church, Grand Island Golden Age Center, S.P.C.A. (Erie County), Roswell Park Cancer Institute or Hospice Buffalo, Inc.

    Robert S. Roberts, April 20, 2004 of Port Richy, FL, formerly of Grand Island.

    Donna Mae Coyle, April 25, 2008 of Grand Island; mother of Kelly and Shannon (Leasia) Coyle; grandmother of Jessicca, Ryan, Connor and Kelly; sister of William (Karen) Bowen. Friends may call Wednesday, April 30, from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, where funeral service will be held Thursday, May 1 at 10 AM.

   Margaret Hippert, April 27, 2008, formerly of South Buffalo, mother of Robert (Mary) Hippert, Maryann (David) Perez and the late Jerome (survived by wife, Christine) Hippert; also survived by eight grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Friends may call Thursday 2-4 and 6-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to Roswell Park Cancer Institute.

    Constance Dorothy Morris, April 21, 2008, formerly of Grand Island, NY, daughter of the late William and Georgina Morris, born in Kent, England, she worked for the British government in the Fire Brigade during WW II, she also was formerly Executive Secretary at Hooker Chemical in the Corporate Engineering Department and was an accomplished pianist. Memorial services will be held Monday, May 12 at 11 AM at St. Martin-In-The Fields Episcopal Church, 2587 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Assoc. of WNY or St. Martin's-In-The-Fields Church. Constance brought joy to many St. Martin parishioners by organizing many social and cultural events.

    Benjamin J. Cutonilli, 84, April 22, 2008 of Grand Island; beloved husband of Shirley (Coutts) Cutonilli; devoted father of Cheryl (Paul) Roeder and Darlene Cutonilli; dear grandfather of Kelly, Lisa, Shannon and Stacey; cherished great-grandfather of Ashley, Mark, Jed, Mary, Nichalous and Maya; brother of Kay Gaurino, Mary Russell, Eileen Acquiso, Guy Cutonilli and the late Clara Terrana and Vincent Cutonilli; also survived by several nieces and nephews; son of the late Gaetano and Linda Cutonilli. No prior visitation. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, April 25, 2008 at 10:00 AM at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, NY. Flowers gratefully declined.

    Raymond A. Ehlert, 92, April 19, 2008, of Grand Island, beloved husband of 65 years of the late Anna Ehlert; dear father of Lynn (Carlton) Schutt and Lorie (Vince) Wagner; grandfather of Terry (Penny) Yensan, Tracy (Scott) Pufpaff, Katherine and Jeffrey Rebmann; great-grandfather of Amanda Albertsson, Sean and Steven Pufpaff; brother-in-law of Irene (late Frank) Ehlert and Ruth (late Robert) Ehlert Mancuso. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Saturday, May 3 at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church (old church), Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to Hospice Buffalo.


   Alice Louise “Becky” Goodwin, a retired teacher who was active in the Grand Island community, died Friday, April 11, 2008 in East Brunswick, N.J. She was 86. Born in Lincoln, Nebraska, she was a 1943 graduate of the University of Nebraska. She moved to Grand Island in 1946 with her husband, Bill, and three years ago moved to New Jersey to be near one of her daughters. She started teaching third grade at William Kaegebein Elementary School in 1956 and switched to first grade several years later, retiring in 1984. She also taught swimming to children and life saving to adults. Mrs. Goodwin was an active member of the local chapter of her sorority, Alpha Phi, and the PEO (Promoting Educational Opportunities) Sisterhood, a philanthropic educational organization. She was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church. Mrs. Goodwin’s interest in the community came shortly after she moved to Grand Island, when she became active in Grand Island’s centennial celebration in 1952. Her green thumb was developed as a founding member of the Sandy Beach Garden Club. She also was a volunteer for the Red Cross for more than 30 years and was recognized for her service in 1996. She was a volunteer for the American Cancer Society on Daffodil Days and for the Grand Island Historical Society at Riverlea. Survivors include two daughters, Thasia Woodworth and Tricia LaDuca, and a son, W. Jarrard Jr. A memorial service will be scheduled in June in Trinity Church.
See also Niagara Gazette Notice.

    Alfred L. (Gunny) Fritz, of Grand Island, N.Y., passed away Thursday, April 10, 2008. Son of Betty J. Fritz and the late Alfred L Fritz. Beloved brother of Sandra (Fritz) Burrows, Richard Fritz, Mary (Fritz) Yaeger, and the late Sherry (Fritz) Duchman. Father of Brad Fritz. Private funeral services were held at the convenience of the family. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 19, 2008 at 1 p.m., at the Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial VFW Post 9249, 2121 Grand Island Blvd., Grand Island, NY. Arrangements by Kaiser Funeral Home, Grand Island, NY. Alfred served for four years with the US Air Force and was a member of VFW Post 9249.

    Anna O. Ehlert, April 14, 2008, of Grand Island, NY, wife of Raymond A. Ehlert; mother of Lynn (Carlton) Schutt and Lorie (Vince) Wagner; grandmother of Terry (Penny) Yensan, Tracy (Scott) Pufpaff, Katherine and Jeffrey Rebmann; great-grandmother of Amanda Albertsson, Sean and Steven Pufpaff. Friends may call Tuesday, April 15 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Memorial services will be held Wednesday, April 16 at 12:30 PM at Trinity United Methodist Church, Grand Island.

    Ellen Mae Stewart, Retired Director of Operations for the New York State Thruway Authority, passed away April 4, 2008 under hospice care at her home in James Island, South Carolina. As Director of Operations she was responsible for the superhighways' overall highway safety program, toll collection, service areas, roadside emergency service, and liaison with Troop T of the NY State Police. Born in Shippenville, PA on March 30, 1928 to the late Clara Ruth Francisco Cook and Clarence Albert Cook, Mrs. Stewart lived most of her life in the Buffalo and Grand Island area. She was married to Donald Richard Stewart who died in 1982. Mr. Stewart served with the NYS Park Police at Evangola State Park, Niagara Falls, and Beaver Island on Grand Island. Mrs. Stewart is survived by her sister, Louise Dietrich of James Island, SC; four children, Suzanne Ellen Stewart (Gary Graber) of Derby, NY, Deborah Lee ( John) Goss of Grand Island, NY, Joan (Patrick) Appleget of Folly Beach, SC, and Mark Mikel Stewart of James Island, SC; proud grandmother of Brendan (Karen) Fallon of East Aurora, Benjamin (Gina) Goss and Sarah (Todd) Sweeney of Grand Island, Erin Stewart of West Seneca, Melinda (Jim) Green of Wadmalaw Island, SC, Christopher Stewart of Northport FL, Alexander Stewart of Burnt Hills, NY, James Graber of Centerpoint, NY, Jennifer Keenan of Schenectady, NY, Jessica Keenan of Selkirk, NY; and nine great-grandchildren. Mrs. Stewart graduated from South Park High School in Buffalo and studied at Canisius College School of Management and D'Youville College. She was a Girl Scouts of America volunteer and participated in leadership and training courses for the Girl Scouts. She was also a member of the American Management Society. Mrs. Stewart retired to Folly Beach, SC in 1989. She was active in the Lutheran Church wherever she lived, serving as choir member, lay reader, altar guild and council person. She was active in the Folly Beach Senior Coalition. She was a life-long learner and attended many Elderhostel programs around the country. She enjoyed knitting, sewing, crafting, and cooking. She had a generous heart and was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. A funeral service will be held at St. Timothy Lutheran Church, 1453 Staley Road, Grand Island, NY on Tuesday April 15 at 11:00 AM. Family and friends are invited. She will be interred at Hillcrest Cemetery in Hamburg. Mrs. Stewart was a longtime supporter of Alice Lloyd College in Appalachia. Memorials may be made to the college in Pippa Passes, Kentucky, Lutheran Hospice of Charleston, or St. Timothy Lutheran Church.

    Kevin M. Coffta, 28, April 2, 2008; beloved father of Dawson Karl; beloved son of Joseph and Darlene Coffta; dear fiance of Courtney Callahan of Grand Island, NY; dear brother of Melissa Coffta; dear grandson of Leonard and Emma Coffta and Roger and Marion Becker; also survived by several aunts, uncles and cousins. Kevin was a tow truck driver for Marty’s Towing on Grand Island. The family will be present to receive friends on Friday, April 4, from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the (Harris Hill Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 8440 Main St., Clarence. Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, April 5 at 1 PM from the First Baptist Church of Clarence. Friends invited. Flowers gratefully declined. If desired, contributions may be made in a trust fund for Dawson Kinzly to the Bank of Akron or HSBC Bank.

    David G. Petit, 54, April 2, 2008, of Grand Island, NY; beloved husband of Elaine; father of Jessie and Christina; brother of Edward (Jeannie), Daniel (Susan), Russell (Doreen) and Richard (Kathleen) Petit; survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Friday, April 4 from 4-8 p.m. at the LESTER H. WEDEKINDT FUNERAL HOME, 3290 Delaware Ave., where funeral services will be held Saturday morning, April 5 at 11 a.m. Friends invited. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo or Roswell Park Cancer Institute.


    Mary J. Nelson, a Grand Island resident of sixty years passed away peacefully on March 25, 2008. Wife of the late John S. Nelson; mother of Sandra V. Nelson; B. Christine (Michael) Mayne of Anchorage, Alaska; beloved grandmother of Lisa A. Bagley; and Richard Allan Ross (Wasilla, Alaska); great grandmother of Austin K. Ross of Texas; sister of Betty Ann (late Joseph) Wilkie; Jo Ann (late Henry) Bailey; John (Patricia) Svarczkopf; and Richard Svarczkopf, also survived by nieces and nephews. Mary enjoyed the company of others, and touched many people in her life. A memorial mass will be held at St. Stephen Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island on Friday, April 4, 2008 at 10 a.m. Flowers greatly declined, donations may be made to Sisters of Charity Hospital.


   Robert C. Hoag, 79, after a lengthy illness. The former Harvey Road, Grand Island resident was born in Buffalo, NY on Christmas Day 1928, and passed away in Tucson on March 25, 2008. He served in the US Army during World War II and later became a professional truck driver, driving more than two million miles across the US and Canada. He was a former member and assistant chief of the Grand Island Fire Company, a member and Charter Warden of Eggertsville-Grand Island Lodge and was proud to be a Mason for almost 40 years. Bob was married to Joan Gammel for 53 years. Joan passed away in 2002. He was an avid golfer, and spent winters in Arizona. He also enjoyed exploring his creative side with stained glass art and lapidary work. In 2003, Bob and Lou O'Guin (of Tucson) pledged their love and exchanged vows. The last five years were happy ones for them both. Bob is survived by his daughter, Gail Noe, and husband, Patrick, of Royalton, NY; two grandsons, Mitchell and Brian Ide of Grand Island, NY; his brother, Don Hoag and wife Shirley of Estes Park, CO; his sister, Jessie Andrews of Bellingham, WA. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Valor Hospice Care, 1760 E. River Rd. Ste. 230, Tucson, AZ 85718, Phone: 520-615-3996. A memorial service will be held Sunday, March 30, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. in the Catalina Room of the Voyager RV Resort, 8701 S. Kolb. Arrangements by BRING'S BROADWAY CHAPEL, 6910 E. Broadway.

    Grace D. (Hoffman) Sutter, 77, March 26, 2008 of Grand Island; wife of Milton W. Sutter; mother of Kathleen (Terry) Corwine, Sally (Ludwig) Dischner, Daniel (Karen) Sutter and Carol (Brad) Wright; also survived by nine grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and many friends and loved ones; sister of Elaine (Earl) White; daughter of the late Chester and Frances Hoffman. Friends may call Friday, March 28, 2008 from 2-8 p.m. and Saturday, March 29 from 1-4 p.m. followed by Funeral Services Saturday, March 30 at 4:00 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to the Grand Island Memorial Library, where Mrs. Sutter was a volunteer.

See Beverly von Craigh Striebich

    Steven J. Bindics, March 23, 2008, of Grand Island, husband of Cindy (Senn) Bindics; father of Dawn and Paul J. Bindics; stepfather of Jessica (Ken) Gertis, John N. III, Marissa J. and Mark R. (Edith) Barrus; grandfather of Aleasha, Charles, Brian, Brianna, Rhiannon, Kayla and William; son of Katharina Bindics; brother of Kathy Bindics, Joseph (Jessone) Bindics, Anne (Joe) Siccurilla and Rose (Jerry) Zielinski; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Tuesday, March 25 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral Services private. Memorials to The Bible Fellowship Center, 1136 Baseline Rd., Grand Island 14072.

    Robert J. Walf, February 16, 2008 of Grand Island, formerly of Tonawanda. Beloved husband of 54 years of Bette (Gelonek); devoted father of James (late April Ann) Walf, Nancy E. (Randy) Donn, Marian E. (Thomas) Iak and the late William Walf; proud Papa of Alicia Ann, Amber Lynn, and Joseph Walf, Amanda Elizabeth and Michelle Elise Iak, and Jacob Randall Donn; brother of Donald (Dorothy) Walf of Corfu, NY and the late Aileen Lovelace, Richard, Jane Zestrow and Jean Bolfield; also survived by several nieces and nephews. Friends and relatives may join the family and gather at St. Andrew's RC Church, Elmwood Ave. at Sheridan Dr., Saturday 10:30 AM for Robert's Funeral Mass. Visitation Friday 4-8 PM at the BURY & ROBERTS FUNERAL HOME, 3070 Delaware Ave., Kenmore. Burial at Grand View Cemetery, Batavia. A.A. Vitello, Director.

    Mark B. Turner, 58, of Lewiston, March 19, 2008. Son of Elizabeth "Betty" (Burke) Turner of Grand Island and late Raymond Turner; also survived by wife Lucille (Morello) Turner and children Charles (Shannon) Barber of Town of Niagara, Jason Barber of Lewiston, late Todd Barber; grandchildren Matthew and Zachary Barber; brothers Stephen (Karen) Turner of Cheektowaga, Kim Turner of Kenmore; sister Joyce (Michael) George of Grand Island; aunt Barbara Missica of Grand Island and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Visitation Friday, March 21 from 4-8 p.m. at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Rd., Niagara Falls, where services begin Saturday 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. in St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island.

   Roberto D. Zannin, 80, of Grand Island, March 11, 2008. Beloved husband of 52 years of Shirley I. (nee Stehl) Zannin; loving father of Maria L. (Chris) Stenzel, Rosanna D. (Robert) Butler, Adrian G., David M. (Doris), Leonard A. (Stephanie) and Anita G. Zannin; cherished grandfather of seven grandchildren; caring brother of Mirco (Quintina) and Liliana (Silvano Zamboni) Zannin; dear uncle of Elizabetta Zamboni. The family will be present on Saturday, March 15 from 1-3 and 5-7 p.m. at the (Tonawanda Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 2600 Sheridan Dr. (corner of Parker Blvd.), where funeral services will be held at 7 p.m. Friends invited. Memorials may be made in Roberto's name to Roswell Park Alliance Foundation, Mercy Flight Inc., United Memorial Medical Center and UNYTS. Online guest register at www.Amigone.com

    Joseph Calvano, 89, of Grand Island, a decorated World War II veteran and owner of Calvano & Sons Builders for more than 60 years, died Saturday, March 8, 2008 in Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center after a brief illness. Born in Cosenza, Italy, he came to the United States with his family in the early 1920s. He attended Trott Vocational High School in Niagara Falls. Mr. Calvano served in the U.S. Army from 1941 until his honorable discharge in 1945. He was involved in the campaigns of Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes, Central Europe and Normandy and was awarded several medals. With his family, he owned and operated Anthony Calvano & Sons Builders, a construction firm established by his father in 1937. Mr. Calvano was a founding member of the Century Club. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, the former Catherine M. Cutroneo, and a sister, Valentina Valore (late Joe) of Grand Island. He is predeceased by a brother,John (Grace of Grand Island) Calvano, and Julio (Norma of Niagara Falls) Calvano. Mr. Calvano is the brother-in-law of Sarafina Orsini; uncle of Virginia (Savino) Nanula, Laurie McGuirk, Philip A. Valore, Christopher (Pamela) Calvano; great-uncle of James (Priya) Mezhir, John (Jennifer) Mezhir and Philip J. Valore; also survived by two great-great-nieces, several other nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins. Visitation Tuesday, March 11,2008 from 4-8 p.m. at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Rd., Niagara Falls where services begin Wednesday, March 12 at 9:00 a.m., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. in St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. Interment with Military Honors in St. Joseph's Cemetery. Memorials to Niagara Hospice.

   Patricia Zoltoski, 77, formerly of Tiffany Court, Edwardsville, died Tuesday, March 4, 2008 at Guardian Elder Care Center, Nanticoke. A former Grand Island resident, she was born in Buffalo, N.Y., on Nov. 26, 1930, daughter of the late Theodore C. and Alice Clancy Spang. Mrs. Zoltoski was a graduate of Bennett High School in Buffalo and a graduate of Niagara University, where she received her degree in business administration. She was formerly employed by Niagara University and was later employed by Sallie Mae Corp., prior to her retirement. Patricia was an active member of the Island Theater Group, Grand Island, N.Y. She shared her love of the theater with her children. She was preceded in death by her husband, Phillip M. Zoltoski, in 1972. She was also preceded in death by a son, Paul Michael Zoltoski; and by a sister, Marjorie Hoerner. Surviving are her daughters, Margaret Alice Espada and her husband, Alfonso, Wilkes-Barre; Mary Catherine Alaimo and her husband, Joseph, Wilkes-Barre; son, Christopher James Zoltoski and his wife, Amy, Las Vegas, Nev.; five grandchildren, Carlita Espada; Jessica and Alicia Alaimo; Paul and Benjamin Zoltoski; brother, Theodore Spang, Cleveland, Ohio; nieces and nephews. Family and friends are asked to attend a memorial service Friday, March 21, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Little Theatre of Wilkes-Barre, 537 N. Main St., Wilkes-Barre, to celebrate the life of Patricia Zoltoski. Interment will be in St. Stephen's Cemetery, Grand Island, N.Y. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Little Theatre of Wilkes-Barre, P.O. Box 1, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18703. Arrangements are by Nat & Gawlas Funeral Home, 89 Park Ave., Wilkes-Barre.

   Diane Pelosi, 74, March 5, 2008 of Grand Island; wife of the late Nicholas Pelosi; mother of Linda (Edward) McGowan and David (Susan) Pelosi, both of Grand Island; grandmother of Stephanie and Lauren McGowan and Alyssa Pelosi. Friends may call Friday, March 7th from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, where Funeral Services will be held Saturday, March 8th at 10:00 AM, flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo. Mrs. Pelosi was an avid tennis and bridge player.

    Helen (Kasprzak) Burznyski, March 3, 2008, of Grand Island, beloved wife of the late Chester; dear mother of Shirley, Marcia and James (Elaine) Burzynski; loving grandmother of Shayna and Krista; dear sister of the late Aloysius (late Helen), Louis, Stanley (Helen), Frank, Florence (late Joseph) Kasprzyk, Walter (Monica), Leonard (late Theresa) and Dorothy (late John) Budzynski; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends may call at the KOLANO FUNERAL HOME, 396 Amherst St., (near Grant) Tuesday and Wednesday 4-8 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at Assumption Church, 435 Amherst St., Thursday at 9:30 AM. Please assemble at church. Helen was the proprietor of Chet B's Bar with her late husband Chester, for 40 years. Donations to the Assumption Church Preservation Fund are preferred. Interment Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

    Jared E. Caffarella, March 2, 2008, of Grand Island, son of Thomas and Maxine Caffarella; brother of Jason (Catherine) Caffarella; grandson of Thelma and the late LeRoy Caffarella, Raymond and Mable Kelly; uncle of Tobin and Taran Caffarella; also survived by many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Friends may call Wednesday 2-4 and & 7-8:30 PM followed by funeral services at 8:30 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd, Grand Island, a Celebration of Life service will be held March 22 at 11 AM, with a luncheon to follow at Unity Church, 1243 Delaware Ave, Buffalo, in lieu of flowers, memorials to Heritage Oak Foundation, 101 Oak St., Buffalo 14203.

    Peter Helbock, January 2008.

    Salvatore G. Capizzi, a former Allegany County district attorney, died Feb. 23 in Jones Memorial Hospital in Wellsville. He was 92. Born in Wood, Pa., Mr. Capizzi attended Dickenson College in Carlisle, Pa., and Bryant and Stratton Business Institute in Buffalo. He also attended both the University of Buffalo and Brooklyn law schools. During World War II, Mr. Capizzi served in the Army and fought in the African Theater. He began his law practice in Buffalo and lived on Grand Island, where he served as the town attorney and was president of the volunteer fire department. Mr. Capizzi was a member of the Masonic Lodge and was a member of the Rotary Club for over 35 years. Mr. Capizzi moved his law practice to Fillmore in Allegany County in 1969. He often allowed his clients to barter for his services instead of paying cash. The last years of his legal career were spent as both an assistant district attorney and then district attorney for Allegany County. Mr. Capizzi became a gentleman farmer, who also enjoyed deer hunting until he turned 85. He enjoyed big band music and dancing with his wife at the Portageville Hotel. He is survived by his wife of 38 years, the former Jean E. Bassett; a son, Leonard L.; a sister, Teresa Gai; an adopted son, Russell; and an adopted daughter, Joyce Madonia. A memorial service is planned for a future date.

    Catherine (nee Bentivegna) Cipolla, 92 of Grand Island, NY on February 28, 2008. Wife of the late Joseph E. Cipolla; mother of Grace (Gene) Rulli of Niagara Falls, Michael (Barbara) Cipolla of Grand Island; grandmother of David (Christine) Rulli, Janine (Clark) Patrick, Lisa (Kevin) Kohnke, Kevin Cipolla, Brian Cipolla and late Vincent Rulli; also twelve great-grandchildren, three great-great-grandchildren, several nieces, nephews, cousins. Visitation Sunday, March 2, 2008 from 1-3 and 6-8 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Rd., Niagara Falls where services begin Monday, March 3rd at 9:00 AM and at 10 AM in St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd, Grand Island. Interment in St. Stephen's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations to American Heart Association.


Click photo for larger view of Mrs. Thomas and her grandchildren.
   Bonnie L. Thomas, 62 of Kissimmee died in her home on February 15th, 2008. She was born on October 22nd, 1945 in Niagara Falls, New York to the late Joseph and Lois Vincent. Survived by husband, Gary Rothenberg of Kissimmee; son, Robb and wife Nylia Erickson of Orlando; daughter, Jodi Thomas of Winter Park; brother Bobby (Crow) and wife Loueen Vincent of Grand Island, NY; sister Connie Capatosto of Orlando; and two grand-daughters, Marina Erickson and Xoe Leach who were the loves of her life. She was preceded in death by brothers, Harry Vincent of Grand Island, NY; and Jimm Vincent of Orange Park, FL. A Memorial Reception will be held at Disney's Contemporary Resort on Saturday, February 23rd, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM in the Fantasia III Room. The Family hopes to welcome all who loved her to Saturday's memorial, and is sincerely appreciative of the thoughts and prayers of those unable to attend. In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution in Bonnie's memory to The American Diabetes Association.


Leon D. Carr, with his girlfriend, Sarah Gurbacki
    Leon David Carr, February 19, 2008 of Grand Island; son of Susan (Bob Yetter) VanRooy and Gary J. (Mary W.) Carr; brother of Erin F. and Emily A. Carr; grandson of Robert F. and JoAnne P. Carr, John and Ann VanRooy; dear friend of Sarah Gurbacki; uncle of Cheyenne and Brett Carr; also survived by many aunts, uncles and cousins. Friends may call Thursday, February 21, 2008 from 7-9 PM at Trinity UM Church, 2100 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, where a celebration of life will be held Saturday, February 23 at 11 AM. Burial Ceremony will be held Friday, February 22 at 2 PM at Steamburg Cemetery, Steamburg, NY (for info and directions, "www.myspace.com/inmemoryofleoncarr" or inmemoryofleoncarr@gmail.com or call 909-1728).
    Leon D. Carr, 29, a chef at the Village Inn restaurant on Grand Island, passed away Tuesday (February 19, 2008) after a snowboarding accident in Ellicottville. He was much beloved by family, his many friends and the staff at the restaurant on Ferry Road, where he worked with his uncle, Michael Carr, the owner. Leon was born on July 28, 1978, in Arlington, Texas, at home. He is the son of Gary J. Carr (and Mary W.) of South Wales and Susan VanRooy of British Columbia, Canada. He was known by customers and staff not only for his creative and delicious soups and his beautiful preparation and presentation of entrees, but also for his gentle and upbeat disposition. “He never held a grudge,” said co-worker Sherri Robinson-Cooney. “He was very easy going. He was the best. ... He’s really going to be missed.” Carr had worked full time at the restaurant for about five years. Before that, he had done landscaping and had worked as a union tile setter. He graduated from Grand Island High School and earned an associate’s degree with honors at Erie Community College. Starting Monday morning, when word of the accident reached family and friends, the ICU waiting room was crowded with more than 50 people at a time, waiting to hear word on his condition and keeping vigil with his family. Carr’s friends — many in their 20s and many who had worked with him at the restaurant — shared stories and said prayers. His father, Gary Carr of South Wales, said many people came up to the family and said they were his oldest and best friends, a testament to his ability to touch people’s lives in a powerful way. Leon’s friend Chaz Bulera, also of Grand Island, agreed that Carr’s character drew people to him. “I just think that the things we’ll remember the most about Leon is about how much he cared for people and what he taught us about really being ourselves … really understanding what people have to offer. He just innately understood something like that,” “He was very lovable big, huge teddy bear, Bulera said. “He would do anything for you.” He said Carr had a remarkable positive quality. “It changed cynicism in people ... it made people who were happy even happier.” Leon loved spending time, year round, at his grandparents’ cabin in the Southern Tier. He loved the outdoors and was a fine woodsman. He was an expert skier and snowboarder, often organizing groups of friends to go to Holiday Valley. He also could often be seen biking or jogging on the Island. He loved the Sabres and the Bills, and recently enjoyed the Ice Bowl with his girlfriend, Sarah Gurbacki, also a Grand Island High School graduate. While there, she said he made a friend of a Penguins fan who was ready to fight for his team – literally. “Within seconds, he talked to him and they were hugging each other,” Gurbacki said. Carr had recently moved in to help his grandparents, Bob and Joanne Carr, of Grand Island, with their health problems. Growing up close to them, he had learned a lot of cooking tips from his grandmother, an excellent cook who was the original baker for the Village Inn, and a knowledge of the woods and of hunting from his “Grandpa Bob.” He also enjoyed his grandfather’s pancakes and would stop almost every morning to share breakfast with the two of them. His family said that in keeping with his generous spirit, his organs have been donated. Besides his parents, his stepmother, Mary W. Carr, his paternal grandparents, and his dear friend, Sarah, he is survived his brother, Erin F. (Amanda) Carr of the U.S. Marine Corps in California; a sister, Emily R. Carr of South Wales; his maternal grandparents, John and Ann VanRooy; his niece, Cheyenne, and nephew, Brett Carr, both of California; and many aunts, uncles and cousins. Burial will be at 2 p.m. Friday at Steamburg Cemetery, where graveside services will include prayers said in the Baha’i faith. For information and directions to Steamburg, visit the Web site myspace.com/inmemoryofleoncarr or inmemoryof leoncarr@gmail.com, or call 909-1728. A Talking Circle and a Celebration of Life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island. Family and friends are welcome to attend.

    Nannette (Easton) "Nancy" Schmauss, February 19, 2008 of Grand Island; mother of Tami (Robert) Gormady and Gary Schmauss Jr.; grandmother of Jade and Ryan Gormady; sister of James (Carolyn) Easton, Ronald (Kathy) Easton and Debra Easton-Dawson; daughter of the late LaVerne and Margaret Easton; granddaughter of the late Frank and Dorothy Mather, Sam and Florence Easton. Private family services to be announced.

    Thomas L. Woods, Woodbourne, formerly of Grand Island and Niagara Falls, passed away on Tuesday, February 19, 2008 at home. He was 76. The son of the late Edward and Catherine Higgins Woods, he was born on September 16, 1931 in Ithaca, New York. Tom was a chemical engineering honors graduate of Clarkson University; President of Industrial Welding Corp. and GIFCO and proudly served as president of the Niagara Club. He was the beloved husband of the late Theresa Casey Woods. He was a loving father to sons Christian, Keith, Kevin, Terrance and Daniel; a dear brother to Mary K. and the late Edward and Donald and brother-in-law, Sandy; fond brother-in-law to Ann and uncle to Barbara, Tina, and Margaret Kitt. "Tom, you will be missed for your humor and shenanigans. Buddy barks his good-bye." Visitation will be held this evening, Thursday, February 21, 2008 from 7-9 p.m. at Colonial Memorial Funeral Home, 396 State Route 52, Woodbourne, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, February 22, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. at the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Route 42, Woodbourne, NY. A burial of ashes will be held privately at the Calvary Cemetery in Ithaca, New York. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Tom's name to the American Cancer Society, 159 Green Street, Kingston, New York 12401 or to a charity of one's choice. Arrangements are under the supervision of Colonial Memorial Funeral Home, for further info, please visit our website at www.colonialbryantfuneralhome.com or call 845-434-7363

    Deane (Arner) Long, D.C., 89, February 17, 2008 of Grand Island; wife of 67 years to the late Dr. Samuel D. Long, D.C.; mother of Lisa (Francis) Knowlton; also survived by one sister, one brother, nieces, nephews and cousins. Friends may call Thursday, February 21 from 4-7 p.m. at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island.

    Edward M. Miller, February 15, 2008 of Lockport, formerly of Grand Island. Beloved husband of Debbie (Dinsmore) Miller; devoted father of Michele (Philip) Johengen, Kristin (Johnny Ben), Peter and Nicole Miller; loving grandfather of Jakob Johengen; son of the late Howard and Eileen Miller; loving brother of Kathleen (Charles) Ambrose, Barbara (Jeffrey) Townsend, James (Linda) Miller, Sharon Miller and Janice (Jeffrey) Hamm; also survived by aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. Friends may call Monday 7-9 PM and Tuesday 2-4 & 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Private funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family. Memorials may be made to the American Red Cross.

    Elizabeth (Haese) Werth, of Grand Island, NY passed away February 9, 2008. Wife of the late John W. Werth; mother of Lawrence (Judy) Werth, Margaret Tichy; and the late George Charles Werth; ; grandmother of Teresa Stimpson, Lawrence Werth, Jr., Scott Werth, Aurora Onorato, Kirk Daley, Kenneth, Gregory and Jennifer Netto; also survived by 12 great-grandchildren; daughter of the late Elizabeth and William O. Haese, Sr.; sister of the late William O. Haese, Jr.; sister-in-law of Donald (Lorraine) Werth; aunt of Joselyn Szfranski, Rebecca, Albert and William Keopke. Friends may call from 2-5 p.m., Sunday, February 17 at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Memorials may be made to St. Timothy Lutheran Church, Grand Island, where funeral services will be held 10 a.m. Monday, February. Mrs. Werth was a founding member of St. Timothy Lutheran Church, a teacher at the Grand Island Middle School for 25 years and volunteered at St. Mary's Hospital and Artpark.

    Hans F. Kipping M.D., suddenly February 1, 2008, a former Grand Island, NY resident, of Williamsville, NY. Husband of the late Rosemary Kipping (New); father of Susan Kipping-Attea, John (Nancy) and David Kipping; grandfather of Martin C., Randy G., Kevin A. and Michael J. Attea, Travis, Edward, Elizabeth, Christian and Kasey Kipping. The family will be present to receive friends Friday 2-4 & 7-9 PM at BEACH-TUYN FUNERAL HOME, INC., 5541 Main St. (at Cayuga Rd.), Williamsville. A memorial service will be held Saturday morning at 10 O'Clock in Williamsville United Methodist Church (5681 Main St., Williamsville). Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to the Dr. Hans F. Kipping Memorial, University of Buffalo Foundation, PO Box 1232, Buffalo, NY 14240 (School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences) to benefit the department of Dermatology.    See complete Buffalo News Obituary

    Helen Staley, February 11, 2008 of Grand Island, daughter of the late Martha and John Staley; beloved mother of Greg (Joyce) Yensan and the late Terry Lee (survived by wife Susan) Yensan Sr.; sister of Sally Anne (Robert) Dworak and the late Marion Rarick, Mildred Ehrhardt, Leona Brackett, Eileen Schapel, Virginia Hall, Robert and John Staley; grandmother of Terry Lee (Penny) Yensan, Tracy (Scott) Pufpaff, John (Kathy), Jason (Lisa), Jennifer and Kristina Yensan; great-grandmother of Amanda Albertsson, Sean and Steven Pufpaff, Elizabeth, Caitlyn and Taylor Yensan. Memorial services will be held Saturday, February 16, 2008 at 10 a.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island.

    Mary (Graham) Zender Dumas, passed away February 11, 2008, while visiting family in Syracuse, NY; of Grand Island, born in Buffalo in 1920, graduated from Holy Angels High School and magna cum laude from Buffalo State. She was a teacher and administrator for over 30 years in the Kenmore School District. She married Joseph Zender, who died in 1983. She is survived by her husband of 20 years, Leslie Dumas, her stepchildren Suzanne (Paul) Parrott, Andre (Renea) Dumas and Denise (Jerry) Cianfriglia, and six grandchildren, Randall Parrott, Renee Carolin, Robin Groninga, Jason Krohl, Tiffany Dumas and Ashley Cianfriglia; three great-grandchildren, Jacob Groninga, Alex Carolin and Ryleigh Isbell, and beloved nieces and nephews. Friends may call Wednesday only, 4-7 PM, at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to Roswell Park Cancer Institute. She loved playing bridge, boating, golfing, traveling and playing with her grandchildren. She will always be remembered for her wit and ability to make people smile.


Click photo for larger view that includes Mrs. Godfrey's husband, Ernest.
   Edith W. Godfrey, 92, Inverness, Florida, died Thursday, January 3, 2008 at Highland Terrace, Hernando, under the care of Hospice of Citrus County. The former Grand Island, New York resident was born November 17, 1915, in Fallstone, PA to Earl and Nellie Wright. She came to the Inverness, FL area in 1990 from Deerfield Beach. She was the owner and operator, along with her late husband of Bell's IGA Supermarket on Grand Isand and then another IGA store in Lewiston, NY for many years. Her interest in the grocery business staarted when as a child her maternal grandfather built her a little grocery store. From 1958-1968 she was employed as a laboratory technician for Roswell Park Center Hospital in Buffalo, NY. While living in Buffalo, she was a member of the Zonta Club. She was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Inverness for the past 10 years and active in The Elizabeth Circle. She enjoyed playing bridge and golf. She was preceded in death by her husband of 70 years, Ernest Godfrey, Sept. 30, 2007; one grandson, Kevin Wiesinger, and one great grandson, Benjamin Wiesinger. Surviors include two daughters, Carole Wiesinger and husband, Richard of Saranac Lake, NY; and Constance "Connie" Millikan and husband, David, of Inverness; brother, James Godfrey and wife, Sally, of California; sister, Laura Krull and husband, George, of Sun City; five grandchildren; and nine great grandchildren. Chas E. Davis Funeral Home with Crematory, Inverness.


Click photo for larger view that includes Mr. Godfrey's wife, Edith.
   Ernest John Godfrey, 95, Inverness, Florida, died Sunday, September 30, 2007 at Hospice Care Unit at Citrus Memorial Health System, Inverness. The former Grand Island, New York resident was born on July 18, 1912 in Canada and came to the Inverness, FL area in 1990 from Deerfield Beach. Mr. Godfrey was the owner and operator of Bells I.G.A. Supermarkets on Grand Island and Lewiston, NY for 30 years. His enjoyments in life were playing golf, swimming, RV traveling and playing bridge. He was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Inverness. He was preceeded in death by one brother, Alfred Godfrey; one grandchild, Kevin Wiesinger; and one great grandchild, Benjamin Wiesinger. Survivors include his wife of 70 years, Edith (Wright) Godfrey; two daughters, Carole Wiesinger and Constance "Connie" Millikan and husband, David, of Inverness; brother, James Godfrey and wife, Sally, of California; sister, Laura Krull and husband, George, of Sun City; five grandchildren; and nine great grandchildren. Chas E. Davis Funeral Home with Crematory, Inverness.

    Dana Robertson Cadille, of Lake Worth, Florida, formerly of Grand Island, NY, passed away suddenly on Aug 5, 2007. Wife of Carl Cadille. More information will be posted as it becomes available.

   Thomas Joseph Grycel, 60, of Monrovia, CA, passed away January 14, 2008 due to a courageous, but very difficult fight with liver disease. Tommy was a beloved husband, grandfather, father, and son. Thomas Grycel was born on February 13, 1947 in Buffalo, NY. He lived with his family on Grand Island, NY until he was nine years old, and then moved with his family to Canoga Park, CA. He eventually moved to San Gabriel Valley. For the past 33 years, he has proudly resided in Monrovia, CA. He worked for IBM for 24 years. For the past 14 years, he has been co-owner with his wife, Suzanne, of a very successful business called Best Computer Movers. Tommy loved listening to jazz and blues music and was an accomplished musician having played bass fiddle for a number of jazz groups in southern California beginning when he was a college student. His passions included sailing, restoring classic cars, and watching football. He loved spending time and traveling with his family. One of his greatest attributes was his sense of humor; and he always made everyone feel welcome and comfortable. His death is a tremendous loss and he will be dearly missed. Tommy is survived by his father, Felix Grycel; wife, Suzanne Grycel; son, Sean Grycel; daughter, Erin Iler; grandson, Ethan Grycel; siblings, John Grycel, Robert Grycel, Kathy Farmer, Joanne Casey, Anne Marie Packer; many nieces, nephews, and dear friends and family members.The viewing and rosary will be at Douglass and Zook Mortuary, 600 E. Foothill Boulevard, Monrovia on January 21st at 6:30 p.m. The funeral mass will be at Immaculate Conception Church, 740 S. Shamrock, Monrovia on January 22nd at 10:00 a.m.

   Dorothy M. (Hiam) Howard, January 24, 2008 of Grand Island; wife of the late Oliver C. B. Howard; mother of Patricia (Donald) Bachert; grandmother of Sharon Bachert, David Bachert and the late Linda Bachert; great grandmother of Jamie (Kenny) Duncan and Tanya Bachert; sister of Richard (Phyllis) Hiam. Memorial service wil be held Tuesday, February 5, 2008 at 5:00 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, NY.

   Nancy L. ( Berger) Saxbury, 48, of Grand Island, died Tuesday, January 29, 2008. Wife of Mickey J. Saxbury; mother of Jessica and Louie McIntyre, Nicole and Steven Saxbury; grandmother of Anthony Reitler; sister of Eric (Sue) and Dale (Lynn) Berger; aunt of Tori, Kyle, John and April; daughter of the late William and Doris Berger. Friends may call Saturday, February 2nd only from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, where a brief prayer service will be held Saturday at 8:45 PM. Memorials to the S.P.C.A.

   Zygmunt A. Bieniulis, a 15-year resident of Grand Island, NY, passed away January 23, 2008. Born in Warsaw, Poland, he served in the Polish Military during WWII in support of the Allied Forces. He was employed at Bethlehem Steel as an electrical engineer for over 25 years. He was a naturalist and outdoor enthusiast, and was formerly very involved with the Boy Scouts. Mr. Bieniulis was very active at St. Stephen’s Church on Grand Island, where he served as a Lecture. He also did extensive research in anthropology and archeology for the Buffalo Museum of Science. He was the husband of the late Anne Bieniulis. Survivors include his children, Maria (Carmen) Laurendi of Grand Island, Mark (Sue) Bieniulis and Conrad Bieniulis, both of Golden, CO; 10 grandchildren and five great grandchildren. He was the brother of the late Barbara Strynkiewicz and the brother-in-law of Maryna Kryzan. A private funeral mass will be held on Saturday.

   Raymond Zoldowski, 86, January 26, 2008, of Grand Island, husband of the late Fay Zoldowski; father of Kevin Michael (Sandy), of Billings MT and James (Robin) Zoldowski, of Niagara Falls; grandfather of Tyler, Taylor and Jessica; brother of Mel Saile; pre-deceased by nine brothers and sisters. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Saturday, February 9 at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church, Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to SPCA Niagara, 2100 Lockport Rd., Niagara Falls 14304.

    Alice "Jan" Hill, January 23, 2008, of Grand Island; wife of the late Robert Hill; dear friend of Patrick Ryan; mother of Christine (Greg) Luthringer and John (Amy) Hill; also survived by seven grandchildren and four brothers. Memorial services will be held Wednesday, January 30 at 12:30 p.m. at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined.

    William C. Gratto, January 24, 2008, of Grand Island; husband of Marilyn (Lake) Gratto; father of Sabrina Wagner, Lisa Gratto, Amy (Robert) McNaughton, Rebecca Gratto and the late William A. Gratto; also survived by six grandchildren; brother of Tim (Patricia), Tom (Linda), Larry Gratto and Wanda (Dave) Wheelock. Friends may call Sunday, January 27th only 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated Monday, January 28th at 11:30 a.m. at St. Stephen's Church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to Niagara Hospice, 4675 Sunset Dr., Lockport 14094.

    Kelly Rae Voltz of Grand Island, unexpectedly, January 23, 2008. Beloved daughter of Jeffrey J. and the late Teresa Regensdorfer Voltz; dear sister of Danielle, Kaitlin and Jason Voltz; granddaughter of Marybelle (late Les) Getting and Otto and Cathy Regensdorfer; also survived by aunts, uncles and cousins. Friends may call at D. LAWRENCE GINNANE FUNERAL HOME, 3215 Delaware Ave., Kenmore, Saturday, January 26th and Sunday, January 27th from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. All are invited to a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Stephen's R.C. Church, 2100 Baseline Road, (near Whitehaven), Grand Island, Monday at 10:00 a.m. Please assemble at church. Interment Forest Lawn Cemetery..

    Marilyn M. (nee Muetel) Bull, 52, of North Tonawanda, formerly of Grand Island, NY, January 18, 2008 in Hospice Buffalo after a lengthy illness. Marilyn was a former employee of Tuxedo Junction. She was the wife of the late Robert M. Bull, Jr. who died in 2007. Beloved mother of James (Lenee) Bull, Douglas Bull and Robert (Dana Martinelli) Bull all of North Tonawanda; grandmother of Jenna and Justin Bull; sister of Beth (Dave) Salt of Franklinville, NY, Grace (Butch) Henderson of Chandler, AZ and Barbara Olrogge of New Orleans, LA; aunt of several nieces and nephews. Friends may call at the Fretthold Funeral Home Inc. 1241 Oliver St. at Ward Rd. in North Tonawanda on Monday from 7-9 p.m. and on Tuesday from 2-4 and 7-8 p.m. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday at 8 p.m. If so desired, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo. Guest register available at frettholdfuneralhome.com.

    Vera Marie Schram (1925 - 2008), former Grand Island resident, died on Sunday, January 20, 2008 in Grants Pass, OR. She was predeceased by her husband, Warren C. Schram and is survived by sons, Bryan (Carol) Schram of Grants Pass, Gary (Rosa) Schram of Monrovia, CA, and Ronald (Jane) of Valencia, CA. Also survived by eight grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.

    Mathilde Siona Haussmann Nachbaur, 102, formerly of Grand Island, NY (1935-1969) died Saturday, December 29, 2007 in Wilmngton, Delaware. Predeceased by her husband George and great grandson Zachary Zarbo, "Hilde" is survived by her daughters, Trudy (Bob) Wendt of Brandywine, Pennsylvania and Elly (Tom) Zarbo of Grand Island; seven grandchildren, including Mark (Debbie) Zarbo of Grand Island; 12 great grandchildren; three sisters in Germany; and many nieces and nephews.

    Wolcott E. Drake, former Grand Island, NY resident, died January 13, 2008 in San Marcos, California at the home of his daughter. He is survived by his daughter, Tonya (Drake) Robins and son, Thomas Drake; three grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Predeceased by his wife, the late Virginia M. (Gossett) Drake. Services will be held at the Clarence Church of Christ on Friday, January 25, 2008 at 11 a.m.

    Jerome "Jerry" J. Funk, 93, former Grand Island resident, died in Florida on Thursday, January 10, 2008. Survived by his wife of 62 years, Amelia; children, Terry of Grand Island; Tom (Liz) of Denver; Bob (Val) of Grand Island; Donna Schleuss of Freehold, NJ; Cindy Massa fo Port Orange, FL; and Debbie (Steve) Yoakum of Orlando, FL. Also survived by 16 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, eight great great grandchildren and nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his son, David Funk, and by his grandson, Howard Funk. Funeral services were held at Deltona Memorial Funeral Home in Orange City, Florida. Burial in Deltona Memorial Gardens.

   Thomas Grycel, former Grand Island resident, passed away on January 14, 2008 in Monrovia, CA. Complete notice will be posted when available.

    Mary E. Ognibene, January 12, 2008 of Grand Island. Wife of Joseph R. Ognibene and the late Frank H. "Jerry" Heyden; mother of Michael (Heidi), Patrick, Timothy (Rose) and Matthew (Lora) Heyden; also survived by two grandchildren and one great-grandson; stepmother of Roxanne (Thomas) True and J. Randall (Carlin) Ognibene. Mrs. Ognibene was formerly a reporter for the Niagara Gazette for 20 years, retiring in 1982. Friends may call Sunday, January 13, 2007 from 7-9 p.m. and Monday, January 14 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Private funeral services will be held at a later date. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to Niagara Hospice House.
   See complete Buffalo News Obituary


    Regina (Kruzicki) Gicewicz, of Grand Island, NY, entered into rest January 11, 2008; beloved wife of the late Sigmund J. Gicewicz; devoted mother of Marie Whitford, Nancy Gicewicz, and Amy (Cameron) Whitford; cherished grandmother of Brian, Sarah, and Elisabeth; loving daughter of the late Anthony and Stella (nee Kurek) Kruzicki; also survived by relatives and friends. No prior visitation. Private services. Arrangements by LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME, Southtowns Chapel.

    Thomas E. Kuczynski, January 10, 2008 of Grand Island, NY; husband of Mary (Zahm) Kuczynski; father of Alan (Kim) Pearson, Lisa (Michael) Nice, Paul Pearson, Kenneth (late Rhonda) Pearson, Barbara (David) Gladden and the late Adrian (survived by wife Vera) Pearson and Sharon Kubik; also survived by seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; son of the late Marion and Thomas Kuczynski, Sr. Friends may call Monday, January 14 only 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at The KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral Services private.

    Eileen M. (Lennon) Sweeney, 74, January 8, 2008, of Grand Island, formerly of Hartsdale N.Y. Mother of Mary Louise Narvaez, John (Leila) Sweeney, Eileen Melgar and Melissa (Gary) Katz; survived by 13 grandchildren including Shawn, David, Jessica, Ashley, Thomas James and Allissa; sister of Maureen Henry; also survived by nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews. Friends may call Thursday, January 10 and Friday, January 11 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, January 12 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Stephen's Church.


   June Byron, born June 1, 1921 and a long-time resident of Grand Island, NY, entered into eternal life, January 7, 2008. June was the beloved wife of Richard “Dick” Byron, her husband of 60 years; mother of Richard (Gail) Byron and the late Patrick Byron; sister of Julia Pedlow; cherished grandmother of John, Terry and Lynette Byron, Michele Gast and Kelly (James) Petrie; great grandmother of Brianna and Camden Byron and dearest friend of Donna and Skip Oursler and John and Zdenka Gast. She is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews. June dedicated her life to helping those in need, and will be remembered for her selflessness, unyielding faith, generosity, charitable outreach and for always cheering up her friends and family with special cards. Friends are invited to celebrate her life at a memorial mass Saturday, Feb. 2, 2008 at 10 a.m. at St. Stephen's R.C. Catholic Church, 2100 Baseline Road, followed by a luncheon at the Grand Island Fire Hall, 2275 Baseline Road, Grand Island. Memorials may be made in June’s memory to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN 38105.




 July - Dec. 2008 Death Notices
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