Previous Death Notices
Robert E. Bille, December 20, 2011, of Grand Island; beloved husband of the late Debra Gabri, brother of Daniel (Gail) Bille and Joan (John) Cassatta, also survived by nieces and nephews; a celebration of life will be held at the Club House at River Oaks 201 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, Saturday, February 4 from 1-3 PM with a memorial service at 2 PM.
John R. MacNeil, passed away peacefully Thursday January 5, 2012, of Grand Island, beloved husband of the late Margaret MacNeil, loving father of Roderick (Sarah) and Jonathan (Jennifer) MacNeil, loving grandfather of Madison, Aidan, Tyler, Kenna and Ella MacNeil, brother of Lillian (the late James) Leighton, Sarah Cameron, Joseph MacNeil, Ann (John) Tash, Edward (Yvonne) MacNeil and Mary (the late Richard) Rosch, son of the late Joseph A. and Anna A. MacNeil, also survived by many nieces and nephews, friends may call Monday, Jan. 9 from 2-6:30 PM followed by memorial services Monday at 6:30 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, flowers gratefully declined, memorials may be made to Harbor Medical Center, 2950 Elmwood Ave., Kenmore, NY 14217.
Robert Eugene Webb, 1941-2011, passed away in California Friday, December 30, 2011. Burial will be in Newfane, NY. Bob is from a long line of Grand Island Webbs who settled on the Island c. 1845. He was the brother of Ronald (Nancy Langdon), Richard, Michael (Deborah) and Priscilla "Penni" (Hartwig Nicolaus). He was the son of the late Cory (Van Son) and Chet Webb, husband of Ann Maureen Dunne and father of Kimberly Farley (Jeff), Robert Webb (Gina), David Webb (Michelle), Karen Clack and Daniel Webb (Alicia). Visitation will be on Sunday, January 8th from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Rutland Funeral Home, 2670 Main Street Newfane, New York, with a Memorial service at the Rutland Funeral Home, Monday, morning January 9th at 11 a.m. Will notify time at a later date. Following Memorial service Monday will be a luncheon in the Community Room at Newfane Town Hall, TOWN OF NEWFANE Community Room
Town Hall: 2737 Main Street, Newfane, NY
Deborah (nee Kramer) Celler, December 22, 2011, age 59, formerly of Williamsville; wife of John C. Celler; mother of the late Colleen T. Hennon; sister of Douglas (Dawn) Kramer; aunt of Max Kramer and Cory Ansel; daughter of the late Howard and Valerie Kramer. Funeral services private. Mrs. Celler was a former Buffalo school teacher
John I. Vinovrski,, formerly of Grand Island, NY, of North Tonawanda, December 31, 2011, husband of the late Charlotte B. (nee Fessler) Vinovrski; dearest father of Maryann Dirmyer, Marlene Golden, Julia Goodwin, Lillian Killian, Joseph Vinovrski, Karen (Mark) O'Lay, James Vinovrski, Cathleen Latz, Tina (Daniel) Garrett and the late John (Dorothy) Vinovrski; proud grandfather of many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; dear brother of Anna Budinjas and the late Stephen Vinovrski; also survived by nieces and nephews. Family present Tuesday, January 3 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the SABER FUNERAL HOME, 549 Oliver St., N. Tonawanda (692-0271) where prayers will be offered Wednesday, January 4 at 9 AM followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at Our Lady of Czestochowa Church (Oliver St.) at 9:30 AM. John was a Navy veteran of WWII, a member of VFW Post #6245 and a retired employee of Local #210.
Steven M. Majewicz, December 20, 2011, of Grand Island; son of Gregory (Barb) Majewicz of Boca Raton, FL and Teresa Majewicz, brother of Anthony (Wende) Majewicz, also survived by many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. Memorial services will be held Saturday, January 7 at 12 noon at the Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial VFW Post 9249, 2121 Grand Island Blvd., Grand Island, NY.
Linda A. Garlock, December 21, 2011, of Grand Island, formerly of Springville; wife of Joseph W. Borowski; mother of Richard J. "RJ", Todd D. and Rachel E. Wright; grandmother of Elliott, Liberty and Shannon Steel; sister of Robert W. (Deneen) Garlock and Susan (Michael) Drennan; daughter of the late Mary and William Garlock Sr., also survived by the loving Borowski family. Friends may call Friday, December 23, from 4-7 PM followed by funeral services Friday at 7 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island.
Pamela Jane (nee Stock) Murray, December 18, 2011, age 55, of Lynn, MA, formerly of Grand Island, after a battle with cancer, graduate of Kenmore schools, beloved wife of the late Chip; devoted mother of Chris; daughter of Jane (Dave) Hyzy and George (Maria) Stock; sister of Curt (Rose), Becky, Liz (Kim), Heather (George), Vicky (Chris), Amy (Rob), Leslie (Jeff); aunt of Michael (Christina), Jennifer (Adam), Jake, Dan, Jack, Shannon, Aaron, Ben, Caden, Adam, Rachel, Luke and Emma; grandaunt of Brooklyn and Warner; niece of Joan (the late Jiggs), Sandy (George), Gail, Lindy; also survived by many cousins and other relations. The family will be present at the VANDERCHER & DICK FUNERAL HOME, 2549 Main St. to receive relatives and friends from 4-7 PM on Tuesday, December 20, 2011 with a Memorial Service to follow at 7 PM. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Roswell Park Cancer Institute.
Conrad M. Tubin, of Eagan, Minn., passed away on November 16, 2011. He was the son of Conrad and Ann M. (Golanka) Tubin. Born in Niagara Falls, NY on Dec. 12, 1948, Tubin graduated from Niagara Falls High School in 1966 and earned a degree in electrical engineering from the Rochester Institute of Technoocy in 1971. He traveled extensively throughout his career. He enjoyed golfing. Woodworking became his hobby in his retirement. Conrad is survived by his mother, Ann M. Tubin of Grand Island; sisters Constance M. (Duncan) Trott of Canandaigua; and Phyllis A. Baker of Grand Islzand; and his nephew Jeffery R. Baker of Grand Island. Conrad was predeceased by his father in 1999. Interment will be in Holy Trinity Cemetery, Lewiston, at the convenience of the family. Arrangements entrusted to Zajac Funeral Home Inc.
Eleanor (Knighting) Aylor, Grand Island, NY. December 18, 2011, Widow of Earl Aylor. Survived by her children, Gary Aylor, Carolyn (Bill) McKibben, Rick (Tammy) Aylor, a brother, two sisters, four sisters-in-law, grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held at 4:00 Thursday, December 22nd at the Island Presbyterian Church, 1822 Huth Road, Grand Island, to be followed by a light supper in the Church Hall. An additional Memorial Service will be held in April at the Oak Grove United Methodist Church on Aylor Road in Aylor, Virginia prior to her burial. Gifts in lieu of flowers may be sent to the Oak Grove United Methodist Church, 1109 Aylor Road, Madison VA 22727
Thomas A. "Red" Baillie, 82, of Grand Island, NY, died on Thursday, December 15, 2011 in Roswell Park Cancer Institute in Buffalo, NY, following a brief illness. Born on November 25, 1929 in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada, he was the son of the late Fannie Thompson. Days after birth, he was adopted and raised by the late James and Barbara Baillie. Mr. Baillie attended local schools and graduated from the former Trott Vocational High School. Thomas served, as a gunner, during the Korean War, from February 12, 1951, until his honorable discharge on October 8, 1956. On June 28, 1952, he married the former Shirley Cowan in the Church of the Epiphany. For over 30 years, Mr. Baillie worked as a Machinist and Supervisor for Nabisco. Thomas was a member of the Nabisco Retirees and the Knights of Columbus Golf League. He enjoyed golf and bowling and was an avid Buffalo Sabres fan. In addition to his wife, Mr. Baillie is survived by three children, Gary (Kim) Baillie of Niagara Falls, NY, Scott (Susan) Baillie of Nevada and Barbara (Richard) Graff of Grand Island, NY; five grandchildren, Erik Baillie, Jamie Bauer, Gaelan Baillie, Casie Baillie and Heather Graff, and four great-grandchildren. Visitation will be on Sunday from 4-8 PM at the OTTO REDANZ FUNERAL HOME, 2215 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY (297-9007), where a funeral service will be held on Monday, December 19th at 10:00 AM. Entombment, with Military Honors, will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Lewiston, NY. In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to the Roswell Park Alliance Foundation, Elm and Carlton Streets, Buffalo, NY 14263. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting us at www.ottoredanz.com and www.niagara-gazette/obituaries.
Joan A. (nee Meyer) Webb, December 13, 2011; of North Tonawanda, wife of 58 years of the late Lester C. Webb; mother of Mary Beth (Dean) Nyberg, Rebecca (Bill Hewitt) Lucas and the late Susan Marranca; grandmother of Vanessa (Corey) Smyer, Valerie (Mike) Stickney and Patricia (Ken) Oswald; also survived by 4 great- grandchildren; sister of Charles (Alice) Meyer and the late June Webb and Ion Meyer. Friends may call Friday, December 16 from 6-8 PM followed by funeral services Friday at 8 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined, memorials may be made to Kenmore Mercy Pulmonary Rehabilitation.
Sally (nee Tripi) Richard, December 11, 2011, beloved wife of Donald Richard; dear mother of Sally Ann (late Tim) Houck and Mary Ellen (Ronald) Gerst; grandmother of Tim (Laura) Houck, Kristie (Robert) Cluck, Brian (Kerrie) and Kevin (Crystal) Houck; great-grandmother of 10; sister of Rosemary (late Edouard) Koeppel, Dolores (late Park) Forde, Barbara (Edward) Shantler and the late Paul (Dorothy) and Charles (late Dolores) Tripi; also survived by in-laws, nieces and nephews. Family will be present Wednesday, December 14 from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at the DENGLER, ROBERTS, PERNA FUNERAL HOME, 3000 Delaware Ave., Kenmore. Funeral Service will be held Thursday, December 15, 11 AM, at the Whitehaven Road Baptist Church, 1290 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Please assemble at church. Condolences at www.denglerrobertspernafuneralhome.com.
Suzanne E. (nee Gangloff) Lipp, December 12, 2011, formerly of Grand Island, wife of 57 years of Theodore G. Lipp; mother of Pamela (Jerry Jakubczak) Stark, Glyn (Louise), Timothy (Espi), Kevin (Diane) Lipp and Nancy (Gene) Zelawski; also survived by eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Friends may call Wednesday 4-8 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, a memorial Mass will be celebrated Thursday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association.
William W. Click, December 10, 2011, age 86, of Grand Island formerly of Riverside, beloved husband of 65 years of Dorothy (Rousseau) Click; father of Bonnie Kaiser, William (Gail) Click and the late Lynnette Grisanti; also survived by 11 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren; brother of Ida (the late Ralph) Perry and the late Edith (the late Jack) Massing. Friends may call Monday, Dec. 12 from 2-4 and 7-8:30 PM followed by funeral services Monday, Dec. 12 at 8:30 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd, Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo. Mr. Click was a WWII veteran in the US Coast Guard, a retired member of the Carpenters Union and an avid lifelong hunter and fisherman.
Jay R. Martin, of Grand Island; December 4, 2011; husband of 54 years of Martha (McDonald) Martin; father of Bradley (Susan), Craig (Karin) and Kent (Karen) Martin; devoted grandfather to Colin, Kyle, Breanne, Kirstin, Madison and Nathan; brother of Janet Martin, Julia Martin, Jerald (Betty) Martin, Jean (Carl) Dickerson, Jason (Leora) Martin and Joan (Paul) Nolt; also survived by several nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made, in his memory, to the Endowment Fund of Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, where a Memorial Service will be held on Saturday morning at 10:00 AM. See Complete Obituary
Franklin B. Pinzel, entered into rest December 7, 2011. He was a resident of Grand Island and Fort Meyers Beach, FL. Husband of 60 years of the late June S. Pinzel. Father of Terry, Frank, Carl (Linda), Bonnie and Jack Pinzel. Grandfather of James and Mark (Michelle) Pinzell. Great grandfather of Michael, Ryan, Megan and Colin Pinzel. Brother of Dorothy Grant. Also survived by nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held Friday, December 9 from 3-7 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, December 10 at 10:00 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Interment will be in Whitehaven Cemetery. Mr.Pinzel was a long time member of the "Grand Island Lunch Bunch". He was formerly an active member of the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce in the 1950s and 1960s.
Richard N. "Acorns" Halas, of Grand Island, NY; unexpectedly, December 5, 2011; dearest father of Shawna and Rhonda Halas; beloved son of Anne (nee Horbachewski) and the late Nicholas Halas; dear brother of Michael Halas; also survived by a large, loving family and many dear friends. The family will be present to receive friends Thursday, December 8th from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the (Blasdell/Lackawanna Chapel) JOHN J. KACZOR FUNERAL HOME INC., 3450 South Park Ave., where prayers will be said Friday morning, December 9th at 8:45 followed by Church services at St. Stephen's Serbian Orthodox Church, 177 Weber Rd., (corner of Abbott Rd.) Lackawanna, NY at 9:30. Interment at Lakeside Memorial Cemetery. Pomen Services Thursday at 7:30 PM. Rick was an R.I.T. graduate with a P.E. in Electrical Engineering and served as Head Engineer at the New York State Power Authority. He was also Treasurer of the Moose Lodge No. 180 of Grand Island, NY and was instrumental in raising monies for several local charities. Condolences www.kaczorfunerals.com
Renee Melissa (nee Jagiello) Luzi, died December 4, 2011 at age 34 years in the Hospice Inpatient Unit. Renee was the beloved wife of Albert Luzi Jr. and devoted mother of Ryan Joseph Luzi and Aiden Matthew Luzi; cherished daughter of Dianne and Joseph Jagiello and sister of Joseph M. (Angie) Jagiello, Lisa M. (Roy) Cywinski, Christopher M. Jagiello, Lauren M. (Jason) Stang and Jonathan M. Jagiello. She was the loving aunt of five nieces and three nephews. Renee was a graduate of Holy Angels Academy, and Niagara University. She earned her Masters degree in Special Education at Buffalo State College. She taught for 10 years at Sidway School on Grand Island and was a strong advocate for children with special needs. Renee also volunteered for Relay For Life (ACS) and RPCI, Northmore Nursery School and St. John the Baptist School. Family will be present at the C. MERTZ AND SON FUNERAL HOME, INC., 911 Englewood Ave. on Wednesday, December 7 and Thursday, December 8 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM, where funeral services will be held Friday, December 9 at 9 AM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. John the Baptist Church, 1085 Englewood Ave., Kenmore, NY 14223 on Friday at 9:30 AM. Donations in Renee's memory to St. John the Baptist Church or Hospice Foundation of WNY.
Walter T. Lazik, December 3, 2011, of Grand Island, husband of Joanne A. (Dankowski) Lazik; father of Debora Richards, Gary and the late Wendy Lazik; grandfather of Ryan and Lauren Richards; brother of the late Francis and Kathleen Lazik; also survived by nieces and nephews; loving friend of Jody and Adison. Friends may call Tuesday, Dec. 6th from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Wednesday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to The Alzheimer's Association . Mr. Lazik was a retired Supervisor from Saginaw Division of General Motors and was a member of American Legion Post #1041.
Jeffrey J. Lewis, 53, of Marietta, GA, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, November 29, 2011. Jeff was born is Syracuse, NY and was raised in Grand Island, NY. He earned BA Degrees in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering from Clarkson University in Potsdam, NY in 1980 and an MBA from Florida Atlantic University in 1985. Jeff commenced employment with IBM in 1980 in Boca Raton, FL. In 1986, he was transferred to Tokyo, Japan, where he was a Supply Planning Manager in the Far East. In the mid 1990's, he was transferred to Luxembourg as Managing Director and set up ComputerLand Europe and Vanstar Europe. Since 2007, Jeff has served as President and CEO of Closets and More in Marietta, GA. Jeff enjoyed fishing, diving and travelling. Jeff is survived by his wife, Reiko; daughters, Koko and Niki; parents, Myron and Anne of Marietta, GA, formerly of Grand Island, NY; brother, Greg and wife, Maureen of Grand Island, NY. Other family members include nieces, a nephew, aunts, uncles, cousins and family in Japan. He will be remembered for his bright smile, his abundant energy and generosity, and his love of his family and friends. A Memorial Service will be held Monday, December 5, 2011 at 2:00 PM at the Catholic Church of St. Ann, 4905 Roswell Road, Marietta, GA 30062. In lieu of flowers, donations to Koko and Niki's education funds may be made in c/o, Anne Lewis, 4962 Olde Towne Way NE, Marietta, GA 30068. Arrangements by SOUTHCARE CREMATION SOCIETY AND MEMORIAL CENTERS in Marietta, (770) 420-5557.
Maria (Turri) Saskowski, November 22, 2011, of Grand Island, wife of the late Richard Saskowski; sister of Ido (Celina) Turri, Louis (Theresa) Turri and the late Ada (late Raymond) Povinelli; also survived by nieces and nephews; dear friend of Ed Hayes. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Saturday, December 10 at 9 AM at Our Lady Help of Christians Chapel, Cheektowaga. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital .
Ruby A. (Sentman) (nee Griffith) Thompson, November 26, 2011, of the Town of Tonawanda, NY, beloved wife of Raphael H. Thompson and the late J. Richard "Dick" Sentman; loving mother of John (Joanne), Charles (Christine) and Debra (Roy) Sorenson; stepmother of Gloria, Gay and Gayle; grandmother of Michael, Timothy, Christopher, Nicholas and David; great-grandmother of Viera; sister of Louise (Herbert) Alcorn and Dorothy Franklin; sister-in-law of Joanie and Hazel Griffith. Friends may call Tuesday 2-5 and 7-9 at the LESTER H. WEDEKINDT, INC. FUINERAL HOME, 3290 Delaware Ave. Friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service in University Presbyterian Church (Niagara Falls Blvd. & Main St.), Wednesday morning at 11. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Foundation. Ruby was a faculty member in the Sidway Jr. High School in the early 1960s.
Henrietta M. (nee Rydzynski) Hunt, November 25, 2011, of Grand Island, NY, at the age of 103, beloved wife of the late Samuel B. Hunt; dearest mother of Samuel C. (Dorothy) Hunt; cherished grandmother of Samuel D. (Pamela), Guy S. (Rachel) Hunt, three step-great-grandchildren and three step-great-great-grandchildren; sister of Daniel (Helen) Rydzynski, Adeline (late Bronislaus) Lipowski and predeceased by two brothers and seven sisters; also survived by nieces and nephews. Family will be present to receive relatives and friends on Wednesday, November 30th from 4:00-7:30 PM at the MELVIN J. SLIWINSKI FUNERAL HOME, 85 George Urban Blvd. (west of Harlem Rd.) where Funeral Services will follow at 7:30 PM. Interment Acacia Park Cemetery.
Betty P. (nee Purdy) Bull, of Grand Island, entered into rest November 18, 2011. Beloved wife of the late Robert M. Bull Sr.; devoted mother of Lydia (William) Mahardy, Kevin (Ann) and Cynthia Bull and the late Robert (late Marilyn) Bull Jr.; cherished grandmother of 13 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and predeceased by one great-grandchild; loving daughter of the late Cecil and Gwendolyn (nee Wicks) Purdy; dear sister of the late Audrey (late Donald) Govier. No prior visitation. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service at St. Martin in the Fields Episcopal Church, 2587 Baseline Rd., Grand Island on Saturday (December 3rd) at 2 o'clock. Online condolences may be made at www.lombardofuneralhome.com
Bernice (Kaz) Accardi, November 23, 2011, of Grand Island; wife of over 51 years of Frank H. Accardi, sister in law of John Accardi and Florence Seier, also survived by nieces and nephews. A memorial mass will be celebrated Wednesday, November 30 at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.
Colleen Kilpatrick Parks, November 22, 2011 in the Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida. Colleen was a member of the Grand Island High School Class of 1967. Details will be posted as they become available.
Betty Jane (Weigand) Harding, November 20, 2011, of Grand Island; beloved wife of the late Bill Harding; loving mother of Douglas W. (Patricia) Harding and Marcia A. (the late David) Hagerty; cherished grandmother of Daniel (Crystal) Harding and Kari (Daniel) Klos; devoted great grandmother of Chase and Calli Harding and Madison Klos; sister of the late Edward Weigand, Jr. Friends may call Tuesday, Nov. 22 and Wednesday, Nov. 23 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, Nov. 25 at 10:00 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to the Grand Island Fire Co. Mrs. Harding was a member of St. Stephen's Church, St. Stephen's Altar Society, Ladies Of Charity and Grand Island Golden Agers.
Marion The Barber Mancuso, November 15, 2011, of Grand Island, husband of 59 years of Lena (DiCara) Mancuso; father of Arlene (Gillman) Clark; grandfather of Cody (Natalie) and Sam Clark; brother of Mary (Sam) Crea and the late Russell, Augie, Joe, Sam and Carm; son of the late Frank and Bessi Mancuso; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends may call today (Thursday, Nov. 17) from 4-7 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, Nov. 18 at 9:30 AM at St. Stephen's Church.
Casey S. Krzes, born November 25, 1923 in Buffalo, NY, died August 17, 2011 of natural causes in Boulder, CO. Mr. Krzes leaves behind a daughter, Tina (Krzes) Arthur, grandsons Jordan Arthur and Levi Arthur of Boulder, CO, brother Stephen Krzes of Springville, NY, sisters Frances (Krzes) Mierzwa of Blasdell, NY, Theresa (Krzes) Mytnik of Buffalo, NY and Emily (Krzes) and Larry Sverdrup of Libby, along with many nieces and nephews. Mr. Krzes was an Air Force Veteran and a retired electrician of the Local No. 41 Electrical Union. A Memorial Mass will be held Saturday, November 19, 2011 at Assumption Church, 435 Amherst St., Buffalo, NY at 11 AM, with a luncheon following at the American Legion Post No. 1041 at 533 Amherst St.
Francis X. Englert III, November 7, 2011; beloved husband of Judith (Pepe); dear father of Sarah (Michael) Martineck, Jennifer (Dr. Jeffrey) DeRose, Jessica and Francis X. Englert, IV.; cherished grandfather of Nina and Maxwell Martineck, Ella and Anna DeRose; son of the late Francis and Mae (Tynan) Englert; brother of Robert; survived by a large loving family and many devoted friends. A Mass of Christian Burial will be Thursday, November 10 at 11:30 AM in All Saints Church, 205 Esser Ave., Buffalo. (Please assemble at the church.) Fran's lifelong career was in banking with Buffalo Savings Bank, Goldome and M&T Bank. He proudly served in Vietnam and was a lifetime member of VFW Post 9249. Formula I racing was his love along with the Buffalo Bills and St. Bonaventure Basketball. A graduate of St. Joseph's Collegiate Institute, a '61 graduate, he enjoyed his 50th Reunion this past summer. Fran's "Fellows of Riverside", his friends and of course his family were always number one in his life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to Roswell Park or St. Joe's Collegiate Institute.
Richard "Shorty" Vanthoff, 72, lifelong Grand Island resident, Wednesday, November 9, 2011 in Veterans Hospital. Arrangements scheduled at Kaiser Funeral Home on Monday, November 14 from 2-4 p.m. and 6-9 p.m. with a funeral service on Tuesday, November 15 at 10 a.m. Complete notice to follow. Tonawanda News Obituary.
Kevin James Prosser - PORTER CORNERS -- Kevin James Prosser died Monday, Nov. 7, 2011, as the result of an automobile accident. He was 31.
Born on Dec. 15, 1979, in Lewiston, N.Y., he resided on Grand Island where he attended Grand Island High School until moving to Saratoga Springs in 2005. Kevin was active in many winter sports. He particularly loved skiing at Killington and enjoyed mountain biking in the summer. He also enjoyed going to amusements parks throughout the Northeast. Kevin was employed at Quad Graphics in the Finishing Department in Saratoga Springs where he met his fiancee, Erica. He was also employed by Ferguson Electric in Niagara Falls, N.Y., and Andy's Tree Service, North Tonawanda, N.Y.
Survivors include his four-month old daughter, Gianna Jocelyn Prosser; his fiancee, Erica Butler, and her son, Dakota Walker; Kevin‘s parents, Lawrence and Joanne Prosser of Warsaw, N.Y.; his brother Michael (Maureen) Prosser, of Lockport, N.Y.; grandmother, Libbie Akin, of Silver Springs; aunt and uncle Patricia and Walter Putaski, of Rock City Falls, N.Y., his aunt Violet Conley of Perry Center, N.Y., and good friend, Sean Wanser, of Ballston Spa, N.Y. He was predeceased by his loving grandparents, James and Jeanette Prosser, and Nelson Akin; godparents, Jim and Beaty Conley, and Uncle Tom Conley. Kevin was loved for his smile, helpfulness, and love of life and will be missed by many cousins and friends.
Relatives and friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 11, 2011, at William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 N. Broadway, Saratoga Springs (584-5373). A funeral service will be held at 7 p.m. at the funeral home.
A memorial service will also be held in Silver Springs, N.Y. on Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2011, at 7 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church. A celebration of Kevin's life will be held immediately after the service at the church.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Saratoga's Community Federal Credit Union, 23 Division St. Saratoga Springs, NY 12866, for his daughter Gianna Jocelyn Prosser.
See TimesUnion.com
Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.
Joseph M. Samrany, November 8, 2011, age 75, beloved husband of Nancy (nee Scheelar) Samrany; dear father of Cheryl (David) Calire, AnnMarie (Robert) Stewart, Lisa (A. Peter) Podlucky and Paula (Jeffrey) Miller; loving grandfather of 15 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; brother of Patricia (Roger) Waldron, Arlene Conforti and the late Diane Warmus and Gloria Jean Samrany; also survived by nieces and nephews. The family will be present to receive friends Thursday, November 10 from 1-4 and 6-9 PM at the (Tonawanda Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 2600 Sheridan Dr. (Cor. Parker). Friends and relatives are invited to a Mass of Christian Burial celebrated at St. Stephen Church (Grand Island) Friday at 10:00 AM. (Please assemble at church). If desired, memorials may be made, in Mr. Samrany's memory, to Hospice-Buffalo, Inc., 225 Como Park Blvd., Cheektowaga, NY 14227. Share your condolences at www.AMIGONE.com
See Buffalo News Obituary
Sonia F. Steckelberg, of Grand Island, Friday, November 4, 2011. Mother of the late Scott, Jack (Jackie) Steckelberg, Teddie Ann (Michael) Davis, and Joni (Nick) Nicolucci; sister of the late Betty (Paul) Kearns, John (Donna) Daniels; grandmother of 10 and great-grandmother of 10, also surviving are several nieces and nephews. Friends may call Sunday, November 6 from 6-8 P.M. at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island. Funeral Services will be held Monday, November 7 at 10:30 A.M. from Trinity United Methodist, 2100 Whitehaven Rd. Memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.
Myrna P. (Dworak-Bartlett) Boerschig, October 28, 2011, longtime Grand Island resident, wife of Dale W. Boerschig and the late Donald R. Bartlett; mother of Brenda (Leonard) Fike; stepmother of Michael (Scherrie), Gregory (Tracey), Timothy (Stacey) and Peter (Libbi) Boerschig; grandmother of Stephanie (James) Pizzutelli, Jessica (Jeremy) Roberts, Lenny Fike, Jr., Matthew, Tyler, Connor, Sarah, Rachel and Daniel Boerschig and Jordan Haywood; sister of Robert (Sally) Dworak; stepsister of Bobby (Gail) Boerschig, Elaine Lunghino and the late Yvonne (survived by husband Ronald) Hoover; daughter of the late William and Irma Dworak. Memorial Services will be held Tuesday, November 1, 2011 at 10:30 AM at Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island.
Walter J. Orton III, October 23, 2011, age 84, of Grand Island, husband of 61 years of Norma (Shaw) Orton; father of Walter J. (Brenda) Orton IV of Huma, LA, Marsha (Bruce) Leierer of Bel Air, MD, Debbie (Don) Leierer of Dover, PA and Douglas (Donna and Robert) Orton of Lewiston; grandfather of Samantha, Nathan, Jared, Greg, Scott, Kristin and Rachel; great-grandfather of Sienna. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Martin-In-The-Fields Episcopal Church, 2587 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, where Memorial Services will be held Thursday, October 27 at 11 AM. Mr. Orton was a Lieutenant in the US Army in WW II and received the Purple Heart.
Tim Richard Jordan, October 18, 2011, of Grand Island, age 62, husband of Robin (Kranzmann-Scheuing) Jordan; stepfather of Christine (Joseph) Scheuing-Torregrossa and Jessica (Gordon) Scheuing-BlackCloud; grandfather of Mia and Anthony Torregrossa, Alyssa and Alyson BlackCloud; son of Evelyn (Bell) and the late Clement P. Jordan; brother of Ruth (Larry) Day; brother-in-law of Scott Kranzmann; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Friday, October 21 from 7-9 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island where funeral services will be held Saturday, October 22 at 10 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo. Tim was a volunteer fireman at the Lewiston 2 Fire Co. and a life member and volunteer fireman at the Grand Island Fire Co.
Lisa L. (nee Silvestri) Turck, 43, of Grand Island, NY, on October 14, 2011, daughter of Costantino and Ginerva 'Gina' Silvestri of Niagara Falls; beloved wife of John A. Turck; loving mother of Olivia Joyce Turck and Natalie Ginerva Turck; sister of Nancy (Joseph) Gadawski of Grand Island; daughter-in-law of the late John and Joyce Turck; sister-in-law of Susan and Tom Beylo, Linda and Daniel Dunlap, Robert Turck, David Turck, late Jack Turck, late Jody Turck; aunt of Joseph and Daniel Gadawski, Tom, Mike, Rebecca and Lisa Beylo, Miranda, Jenna and Daniel Dunlap, Taylor, Jack and David Turck; also survived by many aunts, uncles and cousins. Visitation Tuesday, October 18, 2011 from 3-8 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Rd., Niagara Falls, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be Wednesday, October 19 at St. Stephen Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island at 10:00 AM. Please assemble at church. Entombment in St. Joseph's Cemetery. Memorials to Roswell Park Cancer Institute. Visit www.mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com.
Jane A. Soares, October 8, 2011, of Grand Island; daughter of Lorene and the late Joseph Soares, Sr.; sister of Susan (Stephen) Taylor, Joanna, Joseph, Jr. and David (Jessica) Soares; aunt of Matthew, Joseph and Katie Soares. Private services were held at the convenience of the family. Memorials may be made to the Roswell Park Cancer Institute or a charity of your choice. The family would like to offer their thanks and appreciation to the physicians, nurses and staff at Roswell Park Cancer Institute for the loving care and support they have provided for Jane during the past 27 years. Their dedication and friendship are greatly appreciated. They would also like to express their gratitude to Jane's many friends who have helped to bring her comfort, joy and hope throughout her long illness. Thank you.
Delphine Garrison, 91, former resident of Grand Island, NY, October 10, 2011, at Maplewood Manor, Village of Ballston Spa, NY, after an extended illness. Born in Buffalo, NY, April 22, 1920, daughter of the late Pasquale and Delphine DeLuna Cimini, she worked at Trico Manufacturing in Buffalo for 15 years until retirement. Previously, she was a cafeteria aide for the Grand Island School District for 20 years. She was an active member of Marigold Senior Citizens of Grand Island, she enjoyed ballroom dancing, and was a communicant of St. Stephen Church of Grand Island. Survivors include her two sons Robert (Gail) Garrison of Saratoga Springs, NY and Gary Garrison of Grand Island; grandchildren: David Garrison of Clifton Park, NY, Kathy (Philip) Carbone of Amsterdam, NY, William and Peter Garrison of Seattle, WA; six great-grandchildren; three sisters Nancy DiPietro of Clarence, NY, Josie Pantano of Buffalo and Maxine Marciano of Encino, CA, along with nieces, nephews and friends. Funeral Services will be private at the convenience of the family. Burial in Mount Calvary Cemetery, Cheektowaga, NY. Memorial contributions may be made to Residents Council, Maplewood Manor, Ballston Spa, NY 12020. DeVito-Salvadore Funeral Home, Mechanicville, NY in charge of arrangements. Visit www.devito-salvadorefh.com to leave condolences.
Jack "Bear" Dempsey, of Grand Island, a long time teacher and coach in the Niagara Falls School System and a member of the University of Buffalo's celebrated 1958 Lambert Cup football team, passed away Saturday, Oct. 8, 2011. Bear was born Dec. 5, 1937 in Buffalo, the son of Donald and Helen Dempsey. He grew up in Eden and graduated in 1955 from Eden High School, where he was an outstanding athlete. He continued on to UB, where he was a member of the Bulls football teams from 1957 through 1959. Bear also served his country as a member of the Army Reserves for five and a half years, including six months of active duty at Fort Dix. Bear graduated from UB in 1960 and began teaching in Niagara Falls schools shortly afterward, eventually spending many years teaching biology at LaSalle Senior High School. He was an assistant football and basketball coach at the former Bishop Duffy High School in Niagara Falls for several years, then an assistant football coach at LaSalle before becoming head coach for several seasons. A rangy tackle, Bear was a standout player on the Bulls' 1958 team, blocking for, among others, halfback Willie Evans, who still holds UB's all-time yards-per-carry record. UB finished with an 8-1 record in 1958, winning the Lambert Cup as the top small college team in the East, but turned down an offer to play Florida State in the Tangerine Bowl because the Orlando High School Athletic Association refused to allow blacks and whites to play football together. The Bulls declined to make the trip without Evans and defensive end Mike Wilson, the other African-American member of the team; the 1958 team gained national attention in 2008, when the Bulls were invited to play in the International Bowl in Toronto, for its refusal a half-century before to play in the Tangerine Bowl. "We weren't heroes," Bear told ESPN.com. "It was just something you did. It was just the right thing." Bear was survived by a multitude of friends, too numerous to mention individually. A loyal and active alumnus of UB, he was a long-time football season ticket holder and philanthropic supporter of Bulls athletics. He was instrumental in keeping the 1958 team together, the "social director" for the close-knit group of players that frequently met at Brunner's, not far from the campus. He and former teammates Joe Oliverio, Charlie Tirone and Evans established the 1958 Lambert Cup Team Football Legacy Scholarship given each year to a football student-athlete who exemplifies the ideals of the 1958 team; as a teacher and coach, Bear was a stern taskmaster, but was a caring mentor and genuine inspiration to scores and scores of his students and players, many of whom went on to success in intercollegiate athletics and professionally. A tough and demanding man with a heart of gold, a dedicated teacher and coach, a loyal alumnus, a giving friend. Bear will be remembered for all those qualities and for "Keeping Court" for many years at his dock at his home on the Niagara River. Friends and former players, teammates, and students are invited to a Memorial Service 7 PM Wednesday, October 19 at KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island. There also will be a Celebration of Bear's Life at 11 AM Friday, October 21 at the team meeting room at UB Stadium. Parking will be available at the stadium lot adjacent to Millersport Highway. Information is available from the UB Office of Athletic Development at 645-6867. Donations in memory of Jack "Bear" Dempsey be can made to The University of Buffalo 1958 Lambert Cup Team Football Legacy Scholarship Endowment, Office of Athletics Development, University at Buffalo, Division of Athletics, 202 Alumni Arena, Buffalo, NY 14260.
Patricia A. (nee Howanietz) Gelz,
October 10, 2011, of Grand Island, NY, beloved wife of Joseph M. Gelz; loving mother of Nikki (Michael) Draganac and Gregory (Karin) Gelz; grandmother of Abigail; sister of Theresa (Edward) Kwiatkowski. Friends may call Tuesday, October 11 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the STEPHAN-BURNS FUNERAL HOME, INC., 266 East St. at Austin, where services will be held Wednesday, October 12 at 9:15 and in All Saints Church (209 Esser Ave.) at 10 AM. Burial Mt. Olivet Cemetery.
William S. Blok, born on August 20, 1933 and passed away on Sunday, June 19, 2011. Formerly of Grand Island, NY, William was a resident of Ellenton, Florida.
Linda Lee Sherman, 68, of Charlotte, NC; died peacefully September 16, 2011. Linda was born June 5, 1943 in Erie County, New York to the late Ward and Margaret McIntyre Hannes. Service of Remembrance will be held today at 4:00 PM with the family receiving friends immediately following the service until 7:00 PM. at HeritageChoice, 16151 Lancaster Hwy., Charlotte, NC. Linda was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend to many. She was married to her best friend, Jim, for the past 26 years and together they loved to spend time at the beach, outdoors and dancing. Linda loved to cook, garden and most importantly spend time with her family, especially her grandchildren. Survivors include her husband Jim Sherman; son Joseph Schuler and wife Cheryl; daughter Melissa Schuler Averi and husband Mark; brother Gary Hannes, grandchildren Jeffrey Schuler, Mary Reimer, Amanda Reimer; three great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Linda's sister Joy Dallessandro predeceased her. Memorials may be made, in Linda's memory, to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation . www.komen.org HERITAGE FUNERAL HOMES is serving the Sherman family.
Christopher H. Farley, Friday, September 30, 2011 - See Obituary
George "Steve" Spratford,
September 21, 2011, of Grand Island, father of Christopher, Kyle and the late Timothy Spratford; brother of Scott (Annie) Spratford of Montauk, Long Island; son of the late George H. and Beatrice Spratford; also survived by nieces and nephews. Graveside services will be held Monday, September 26 at 11:30 AM at Whitehaven Cemetery, 3089 East River Rd, Grand Island. Memorials may be made to the Make A Wish Foundation.
Susan D. Kupiec, September 23, 2011 - Island school teacher - See Buffalo News Obituary
susan-kupiec-9-29-11
Dennis P. Moran, September 24, 2011, formerly of Grand Island. Brother of Diane C., Ronald L. (Nancy) and the late Daniel J. (survived by wife Carol) Moran; also survived by many nieces and nephews; son of the late Ralph and Doris Moran. Funeral services will be private. Interment will be in Assumption Cemetery, Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association .
Lewis "Vince" Phillips, September 22, 2011, of Grand Island, husband of 64 years of Betty (Welfare) Phillips; father of Vince Phillips of Swain, NY, Sue (Jerry Czajkowski) Phillips of Getzville, NY, Amy (Donald) Cripps of Niagara Falls, Ontario and Tim (Pam) Phillips of Grand Island; also survived by seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; son of the late Lewis and Maud Phillips; brother of the late Lucille Ames, Julia Stein and Dorothy Mesmer. Friends may call Sunday, September 25 from 2-4 PM, followed by funeral services at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island at 4 p.m. followed by a friend get-together at 5 p.m. at LaSalle Yacht Club, Niagara Falls. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo Inc.
Orphia C. (nee Pinkoski) Casper,
of Niagara Falls, and long-time resident of Grand Island, entered into rest September 19, 2011. She was the loving wife of the late Richard L. Casper; beloved mother of Gregory R. Casper, David B. Casper, Michelle M. (Alex) Richardson, and Timothy L. (Jeanne) Casper; cherished grandmother of 7; great grandmother of one. Loving daughter of the late Stephen and Marie (nee Bugay) Pinkoski; dearest sister of the late Stephen (late Shirley) Pinkoski Jr. and Nancy Peters; also survived by many nieces and nephews including her beloved Stephen M. Pinkoski and Claudia A. Weaver and many close friends who have shared countless trips, classes, clubs, concerts, and get-togethers that kept Orphia young at heart until the very end. Orphia began her career substitute teaching, became a Kaegebein Elementary School teacher, and after her retirement continued her involvement in the church teaching bible study, singing in the choir, and volunteering in various committees. Although her passing was quick and unexpected, her life was full and active until the end. She was dearly loved and will be missed immensely. A funeral mass will be held Monday, September 26, 2011 at St. Stephen’s Catholic Church at 10:00am, followed by a Bereavement Gathering. Arrangements Kevin Mason Funeral Home.
Lillian (nee Cutonilli) Pagliei,
September 21, 2011, of Grand Island, loving wife of the late Pasquale Pagliei, beloved mother of Mary Ann (Roland) Cervenka and Nadine (John) Bakula, grandmother of Steven Coniglio, Rachel (Duston) Rees, Daniel Coniglio, John, Adam and Benjamin Bakula, great grandmother of Jon and Faith Rees, daughter of the late Alexander and Maria Cutonilli, sister of the late Eralda Courier and Althea Fabi, also survived by loving nieces and nephews, friends may call Friday, September 23 from 3-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, September 24 at 8:30 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to the Parkinsons Assn. of WNY appreciated.
Petra E. (Burns) Avery-Brown,
September 15, 2011 of Oceanside, CA, formerly of Grand Island, beloved wife of Dan Brown; loving mother of Christopher, Alexandria and Michael Avery; stepmother of Amanda M. and the late Patrick P. Brown; daughter of Kenneth and the late Hedwig Burns; sister of Peter (Judy), Kenneth (Cindy) and John (Liane) Burns; also survived by many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. Friends may call Thursday, Sept. 22 from 7-9 PM and Friday, Friday, Sept. 23 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, Sept. 24 at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Petra worked for Life Technologies (GIBCO) on Grand Island for over 30 years.
Richard G. Dunworth Sr., August 27, 2011, of Grand Island formerly of Buffalo; husband of the late Anne (Badame) Dunworth, father of Deborah (Timothy) Blest, Charles (Carol) and Richard G. (Linda) Dunworth Jr., also survived by seven grandchildren, several great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews; brother of Dewreatha (Frank) Worth and the late Charles, Robert and Mildred Dunworth; dearest friend of the late Winifred Sylvia. Memorial services will be held Saturday, September 17, at 11 AM at St. Matthew's Episcopal Church, 1182 Seneca St., Buffalo. Flowers gratefully declined.
Jon A. Cooke, August 25, 2011 - See Jon A. Cooke Obituary
Irene H. (nee Gorky) Lewien, of Tonawanda, NY, suddenly, September 4, 2011, formerly of Grand Island, NY, beloved wife of the late John and companion and best friend of Keith Rohring; dearest mother of Maxine (Roger) Campe, Shirley (William) Reitebach, Sheila (Dave) Wexler, Sharon (Dan) Flanders and John W. (Kim); loving stepmother of Allan and the late Daryll Levien; grandmother of five; great-grandmother of four; daughter of the late George and the late Elizabeth (nee Sears); sister of Ernie Evans and the late Georgina Pollack; also survived by nieces and nephews. Services from THE URBAN BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, INC., 6685 Transit Rd., East Amherst, NY (south of County & North French), Thursday morning, September 8 at 8:45 AM and from St. Christopher's Church at 9:30 AM. Deceased was a member of N.C.H.A., Bridge Hoppers and an avid camper at Niagara Woodlands. In lieu of flowers, memorials to SPCA. Visitation, Wednesday 4-8 PM.
Valerie (nee Buckley) Swain, September 1, 2011; of Grand Island; beloved wife of Terry Swain; loving and caring mother of Julie (Liebe), Jodie (Michael) Rudney, Katie and Kim Swain, cherished Nana of Kaitlyn, Kobe, Ella, Calli and one nuggett on the way; sister of Nancy Valone, Daniel (Patty Rink) and William (Marilyn) Buckley; daughter of the late James and Mary Buckley. Friends may call Saturday, September 3 from 1-4 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, followed by a celebration of life Saturday at 6:00 PM at the Swain family home 1890 Webb Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Miracle League of Grand Island, P.O. Box 833, Grand Island, NY 14072. Val loved to travel and spend time with her grandkids.
June L. (Senn) Abernethy, August 29, 2011 of Tonawanda; formerly of Grand Island; wife of the late Frank L. Abernethy, mother of Kim L. (Debra), Chanda and Keir I. (Mary Kay) Abernethy; also survived by six grandchilren and five great-grandchildren; daughter of the late Bert and Edna Senn; sister of the late Bertram "Buddy" Senn. Friends may call on Wednesday, August 31 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral services private. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Arthritis Foundation.
Darin M. Hughes,
August 24, 2011, devoted father of Zachary M. Hughes; brother of R. Burke (Tiffany) Hughes and Wendy Hughes; survived by nieces and nephews. Friends may call Sunday from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the DIETRICH FUNERAL HOME INC, 2480 Kensington Ave., Amherst. Funeral service will be privately held. Flowers are gratefully declined, memorials may be made to Make-A-Wish Foundation of WNY. Online condolences at www.TheDietrichFuneralHome.com
John Beck,August 22, 2011, of Grand Island; husband of the late Katharina Beck; father of Kathy (Adam) Asbach and Ernest (Maria) Beck; grandfather of Herbert (Heidi) Asbach, Erika (Charles) Basten, David (Kathy) Beck and Anita (Dale) Gruber; great-grandfather of Lauren, Danielle and Adam Asbach, Joshua, Morgen and Jonathan Beck, Victoria and Daniel Gruber. Friends may call Tuesday, August 23 from 7-9 PM at KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island where funeral services will be held Wednesday, August 24 at 10 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Buffalo City Mission.
Casey S. Krzes, of Boulder, CO,
died on August 17, 2011 after having been a Grand Island, NY, resident for 52 years. Loving father of Tina (Krzes) Arthur of Boulder, CO. Grandfather of E. Jordan Arthur and step-grandfather of Levi J. Arthur of Boulder, CO. Mr. Krzes was a Air Force Veteran of WW II and a retired electrician of the Local #41 Electrical Union. A memorial service will be held in Boulder, CO at the Anam Chara Assisted Living Home and a funeral memorial mass will be held Saturday, November 19, 2011 at the Assumption Church at 435 Amherst St., Buffalo, NY, with a luncheon following at the American Legion Post #1041 at 533 Amherst St., Buffalo, NY.
Ruth Hays Baker, August 3, 2011. See Ruth Hays Baker Obituary
Joseph H. "Luke" Lukasiewicz Sr., August 16, 2011; of Grand Island; husband of the late Evelyn Lukasiewicz; son of the late Henry and Mary Lukasiewicz; step-father of Patricia (William) Smith and Steve VanDyke; grandfather of Lyn (Mark) Fotia, Terry Smith, Melissa and Amanda VanDyke; great-grandfather of Vince and John Paul Fotia; retired First Sergeant after 40 years of service, life member of AmVets Medallion Post 13, past governor of LOOM Moose Lodge No. 180 on Grand Island, retired Grand Island Parks Dept.; memorials may be made to Harbor Lights Fellowship 1821 Grand Island Blvd., Grand Island, NY, where a celebration of life will be held Friday, September 2, 2011 at 7:00 PM.
Estelle Barbalato, August 8, 2011. See Estelle Barbalato Obituary
Donald J. Kline, August 14, 2011, of Grand Island, NY; beloved husband of the late Mary Louise (Ryan) Kline; loving father of Kathy (Michael) Hastings, Michael (Cindy) Kline, Linda (Michael) Meagher and Cindy (Gary) Hall; grandfather of Aurora and Mikaela Hastings, Cole Kline, Jessica and Madison Meagher; brother of the late Ann Auchu; uncle of Richard and the late Bobby Auchu. Donald was a Navy Veteran of WW II and a retired employee of Niagara Mohawk Corp.Funeral arrangements private. Arrangements by the STEPHAN-BURNS FUNERAL HOME, 266 East St. at Austin.
Edward A. McCaffery Sr., of East Aurora, formerly a 36-year resident of Grand Island, passed away August 11, 2011, at his residence, after a lengthy illness, at age 79. He was born in Warsaw, NY, the son of Kenneth D. and Agnes (Foster) McCaffery. After a career in Food and Drug Distribution, he formed Team Food Brokers in 1983 and grew it from a one-man operation into a small but successful company with 12 employees. In 1994, McCaffery sold the business and retired to Port Charlotte, FL. He was predeceased by his dear wife and life companion of 55 years, Thelma Clarice (Hance), who passed away February 2, 2009 after a valiant battle with Pulmonary Fibrosis. McCaffery was active in the Buffalo Food Brokers Association, having served as President in 1993. He was a member of the Grand Island Lions for 21 years, a past commander of Bates-Courtney Post American Legion, a current member of East Aurora American Legion Post No. 362, and exempt Volunteer Fireman and past-master of Oakland Masonic Lodge in Castile, NY. He was a veteran of service to his beloved country having served four years in the U.S. Navy during the Korean Conflict. Survivors include his five devoted children, Kenneth Michael, Patti Carole (D. Samuel) LoQuasto, and John Foster (Wendy), all of Grand Island; Edward A. Jr. (Roberta) of North Chili, NY, and Valerie Grace (Gregory) Mis of East Aurora. His surviving eight grandchildren were the joy of his life: Fawn Marie (Joshua) Lundquist, Kenneth Michael, Thomas Dylan, Clarice Mae, Edward Adelbert III, James Carroll McCaffery, Benjamin Edward and Calista Irene Mis and beautiful twin great-granddaughters Amaya Marie and Lillyana Faith Lundquist. Dear friend of Robert W. (Terry) Weaver. He is survived by a sister-in-law, Carolyn McCaffrey of Almagordo, NM, as well as several in-laws, nieces and cousins. He was predeceased by a brother, Maurice K. McCaffery, a brother-in-law Louis Vastola, a sister Jean Vastola and a nephew, Daniel Vastola. A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, August 20 at 10 AM at Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to the Coalition for Pulmonary Fibrosis, 10866 W. Washington Blvd., No. 343, Culver City, CA 90232.
Kenneth C. Hilburger,
August 9, 2011 of Honeoye, NY, formerly of Grand Island. Brother of Dennis Hilburger; brother-in-law of Marjorie Dickman; former husband of Carol Maulucci; uncle of Molly and Dennis Hilburger and Melissa (Mark) Clouden; also survived by several great-nieces and nephews. Friends may call from 2-4 and 7-9 PM on Friday, August 12 only at the HAMP FUNERAL HOME, INC., 37 Adam St. at Seymour, Tonawanda. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 AM Saturday at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 150 Broad St. at Clinton Park, Tonawanda. Friends invited. If desired, memorials to the V.F.W. DeGlopper Post 9240 on Grand Island are preferred. Complete obituary, condolences and directions at www.hampfuneral.com
John P. McGowan,
August 2, 2011; of Grand Island; huband of Patricia L. McGowan; father of Andrew (Katie) and Corey McGowan; grandfather of Madison and Mia McGowan, brother of J. Denny (Wendy) McGowan, Timothy (Debra) McGowan, Sarah (John) Hawker and Cathy (Tom) Asarese; son of the late John and Isabelle McGowan; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Friday, August 5 from 4-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Saturday, August 6 at 10:00 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Memorials to Roswell Park Cancer Institute.
Thomas L. Schuh Sr.,
August 2, 2011, of Grand Island. Husband of the late Martha E. Schuh; father of Thomas L. (Nicole) Schuh Jr., Alicia (John) Garcia, Brendan Speller and Brian (Alison) Speller; grandfather of Alyssa, Liam, Meg and John; brother of Sharon Williams and the late Edward, Charles and William Schuh. Friends may call Friday, August 5 from 2-6 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral services will be private. Memorials may be made to Susan G. Komen for the Cure , P.O. Box 237, Buffalo, NY 14231.
Anneliese (nee Abt) Sasso, July 31, 2011 after a lengthy battle with breast cancer, age 77, of Grand Island; former wife of the late Anthony D. Sasso Sr.; beloved mother of Carmen (Mark) Kelly and Anthony D. (Kelly) Sasso; loving grandmother of Amanda N. (Ryan) McMahon, Marisa A. Kelly, Anthony M. and Garrett M. Sasso; sister of Ruth (John) Ryan; daughter of the late Albert and Lydia Abt. Friends may call Tuesday, August 2 from 6-8 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, August 3 at 10 AM at Whitehaven Road Baptist Church, Grand Island, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.
Margaret "Peggy" (nee Foster) MacNeil,
passed away peacefully Tuesday, July 26, 2011, of Grand Island. Beloved wife of John R. MacNeil; loving mother of Roderick (Sarah) and Jonathan (Jennifer) MacNeil; loving grandmother of Madison, Aidan, Tyler, Kenna and Ella MacNeil; sister of Robert (Nancy) Foster; daughter of the late Laura Foster and Norman Foster; also survived by an extended family of nieces, nephews and cousins. Friends may call Saturday, July 30 from 2-7 PM followed by Memorial Servcies Saturday at 7 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Harbor Medical Center, 2950 Elmwood Ave., Kenmore, NY 14217.
Edward A. Rowe Jr., passed away at home on July 16, 2011. See Edward A. Rowe Jr. Notice
Anthony Felich,
former Grand Island, N.Y. resident Anthony "Tony" Felich went home to be with the Lord on May 16, 2011 at the age of 79 due to heart failure. Tony and his wife (Ginger) of 41 years lived on Grand Island from 1972 till 2006. They moved to Kansas City area to be closer to their loving grandchildren A.J., Nico, Jordan and Willow; he was know as Pepa to them. Tony is also survived by his son Tony Jr. (Shari), a Presbyterian pastor in Overland Park, Kansas and his daughter Tara, an LPN in Orlando, Florida. Tony was number ten of twelve children and is survived by his brothers Steve and Charlie (Mary Ann), both living in Buffalo. He also has many nieces and nephews. Tony served in the United States Army during the Korean War from 1951-53. He worked for the railroad, building houses, The Courier Express and Buffalo News before retiring. Tony was blessed to have a full life in God's grace through Christ, and was wonderfully involved in the lives of his grandchildren and church. If you had a chance to know Tony, then nine times out of ten you know that he could never give a "yes" or "no" answer when a story could be told and a laugh shared instead. Tony trusted in Christ alone and is now with Him in glory.
Richard Yensan Sr., of Peoria, AZ. June 27, 2011. Age 66. Dad of Richard Jr. and the late Shane Yensan. Son of the late David Sr. and Ruth Yensan; brother of Alfred "Bud" (Pat), Michael (Lynn) and Kathleen (fiancé Lyle Dinsmore) Barton and the late David "Nutzy" (Pat); also survived by several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was a Navy Veteran. Funeral Services pending.
Mary M. (nee Hammond) Schnabel, July 6, 2011, of Grand Island; wife of Nelson Schnabel; mother of Robert (Cindy) Schnabel; grandmother of Katie Schnabel; sister of William A. Hammond; daughter of the late Margery and William A. Hammond Sr. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Tuesday at 9:30 AM at St. Joseph Cathedral, 50 Franklin St., Buffalo. Interment will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Cheektowaga. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society . Mrs. Schnabel worked at the Buffalo & Erie County Library for 35 years.
Gordon E. Frasier, July 5, 2011; loving companion of Shirley J. Martin; dearest father of Kim Oddo (Gary Lang) and the late Duane J. Frasier; grandfather to Brandon and Brittney Hartsch; great-grandfather to Lucas Reiss; brother of Theodore (Marsha) Frasier, Betty (Orlow) Ives and the late Arthur (Connie) Frasier, Paul Frasier and Joan Leone; also survived by nieces and nephews. Memorial visitation Friday, July 8 from 4-8 PM at the HILLIARD-CREASEY FUNERAL HOME INC., 147 Delaware St., Tonawanda, NY. Funeral service Saturday, July 9 at 11 AM in the Acacia Park Cemetery Chapel. Family and friends are invited. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Roswell Park Caner Institute. Gordon was very active in the Boy Scouts, was a member of the Queen City Christopher H. Fox #358 Mesonic Lodge and was a lifetime member of the Niagara Hose Company #3 Tonawanda, NY.
Betty Webb Benton, passed away June 20, 2011 in Hospice at Lockport after a lengthy illness. Betty was the mother of Wayne (Kathy) Benton and Dawne (Ron) Webb Thomas. Also survived by four grandchildren, ten great grandchildren and one great great grandchild. She was born and raised on Grand Island, NY where she spent much of her life. Betty attended a one-room school on the Island until the new Sidway School opened in 1937. She lived in Clearwater for 10 years returning to North Tonawanda in July 2011.
Margaret Leone "Peggy" Prentice,
formerly of 40 Wallace Drive, Grand Island, NY, March 27, 2011 in Las Vegas at age 74. She was the sister of
Bruce Prentice,
Duana Susan Prentice Lennert, the late Albert Duane Prentice and Elizabeth Hazel Prentice Suess.
Thaddeus "Ted" Weselak, July 3, 2011, of Grand Island, husband of Rosalyn Weselak; father of Timothy (Lori), Todd (Vicki), Vincent (Rachel) and Andrew (Christa) Weslelak; also survived by nine grandchildren; brother of Daniel Weselak, Elaine (Charles) Berardi and Nancy (Raymond) Zeis. Friends may call Tuesday, July 5 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday, July 6 at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo or caringbridge.org. See Thaddeus "Ted" Weselak Notice
Robert C. MacKellar III, passed away at home on July 2, 2011, after a brief illness. See Robert C. MacKellar Notice
Edward P. Arida, June 28, 2011, of Grand Island. Husband of 59 years of Ruth R. (Young) Arida; father of Thomas (LeeAnn), Raymond (Peggy), Edward (Roseann), Robert (Lois), John (Theresa), Paul (Lisa) and the late David (survived by wfe Judith) Arida; also survived by 18 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren; brother of Peter (late Dorothy) Arida, Dolores (late Henry) Godlewski and the late Joseph (survived by wife Mona) Arida; son of the late Raymond and Rita Arida. Friends may call Thursday, June 30 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, July 1 at 10:00 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Mr. Arida founded "A" Best Roofing and Siding in 1952.
A Memorial Service is being held at 2:15 p.m. Saturday, June 25, 2011 in Maple Grove Cemetery, Stony Point Road, for David (Nutzy) Yensan,
who died December 6, 2011. Luncheon to follow at the Grand Island Rod and Gun Club, 2:30-4:30 p.m. Family and friends welcome. See David Yensan Notice
Berneice Loretta Huff, of Brooksville, FL and Weeki Wachee FL, January 26, 1922 - June 19, 2011, age 89, passed away Sunday, June 19, 2011. She was born in Niagara Falls, NY and was a retired X-Ray Technician. She was a member of the Grand Island NY Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary, Eastern Star, and president of the Bridge Hoppers. She was preceded in death by her husband Neal, her daughter Judith Ann Froman, her brother, Donald Wright and his wife, Evon. Survivors include her daughters, Janet L. (Steve) Summers of Brooksville, Deborah E. (Daniel) Curry of NY; eight grandchildren, sixteen great grandchildren and four great great grandchildren.
A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, June 23, 2011 at 7:30 p.m. at Church in the Wildwood, Weeki Wachee, FL.
A graveside service will be held on Saturday, July 16th at Acacia Park Cemetery - Resthaven Memorial Gardens, 4215 N Tonawanda Creek Road, North Tonawanda NY 14120.
In lieu of flowers, friends who wish may make memorial contributions to HPH Hospice, 12107 Majestic Blvd., Hudson, FL 34667.
Cecilia Rose (nee Kucera) Armenia, June 21, 2011; beloved wife of the late Carmelo S. Armenia, M.D.; dearest mother of John A. (Elizabeth) Armenia, Donald (Marilyn) Armenia, M.D., Linda (Michael) Monaco, David (Susan) Armenia, M.D., Nancy (James) Sokolski, Janet (Steven) Fisher and Cynthia (Peter) Gibson; survived by 22 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews; dear sister of the late Daniel and Emil Kucera, Jean Prelewicz and Alfred Kucera. The family will be present Wednesday, June 22 from 4-8 PM at the GRECO FUNERAL HOME, 2909 Elmwood Ave. (near Sheridan Dr.). Family and friends are invited to celebrate a Memorial Mass Thursday, June 23 at 10:00 AM from St. Stephen Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island (please assemble at church). Flowers gratefully declined. If so desired, donations may be made to Fragile X Foundation, P.O. Box 37, Walnut Creek, CA 94597 or National Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, 6931 Arlington Rd., 2nd Floor, Bethesda, MD 20814. Share condolences online at www.GRECOFUNERAL.com
Jeanne M. Smith-Fallon, June 15, 2011, of Grand Island. Beloved wife of Sean Fallon; loving mother of Brendan (Karen) Fallon, Matthew (Hidemi) Smith and Zachary Smith; proud grandmother of Riley Walsh, Jack Walsh and Jane Fallon; daughter of Janice and the late Edward Fields; sister of Jerold Fields and Christine (John) Jasper. Friends may call Saturday, June 25, 2-7 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral Services will be private
Robert M. Jankowiak, 77, of Cape Coral FL and formerly of Grand Island NY passed away surrounded by his loving family on June 16, 2011. He was born March 17, 1934, the son of Joseph and Mary Jankowiak. He proudly served as a Staff Sergeant in the US Air Force. Prior to retiring in 1985, Bob worked his entire career with Bell Aerospace Textron. After retirement, Bob relocated to Cape Coral to enjoy the Florida weather with Lucy, his best friend and loving wife of 55 years. Bob enjoyed remodeling, home cooking, golf and in his younger years, sailing boats. In addition to his wife, Lucy he is survived by his five loving children, Tim (Mary) Jankowiak, Jeff Jankowiak, Lori Jankowiak, Lisa (Mitchell) Barrineau, and Rob Jankowiak. Bob also is survived by eight grand children, three great-grandchildren, his brother James (Donna) Jankowiak and Marsha (Carl) Pietrzak. He was preceded in death by his sister, Carol (Richard) Pawlica. A private Memorial Mass and Celebration of Life will be held at St. Katherine Drexel Catholic Church.
Cameron J. Syracuse,
of Grand Island, entered into rest to be with the angels June 11, 2011, beloved son of Ashley L. Syracuse (David John); loving grandson of Sandy Syracuse (Robert Menter) and Mike Vandusen; fond great-grandson of Lylyan (late Robert) Syracuse and Kathleen (late Robert) Menter; cherished nephew of Jason Vandusen; also survived by aunts, uncles and cousins. Relatives and friends may visit the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northtowns Chapel), 885 Niagara Falls Blvd. near Eggert/Sheridan Dr. on Tuesday, June 14 from 7-9 PM and Wednesday, June 15 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM. Funeral Service will be held at St. Martin-in-the-Fields Church, 2587 Baseline Rd., Grand Island on Thursday, June 16 morning at 10 o'clock. (Please assemble at church). Interment White Chapel Cemetery. Online condolences may be made at www.lombardofuneralhome.com
Barbara (nee Bailey) Davis, June 2, 2011, of Grand Island, wife of the late Abram Davis; mother of John B. Davis, James W. (Susan) Davis, K. Susan (Brad) Davis-Banks and the late Robert A. Davis; grandmother of J. Robert Davis and T. Shawn Davis-Banks; sister of Toni Martin; daughter of the late John A. and Alice (Wray) Bailey. Memorial Services will be held Saturday, June 25 at 11 AM at Island Presbyterian Church, 1822 Huth Road, Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The American Red Cross. See Barbara Davis Obituary
Harris W. Ennis, June 8, 2011, of Grand Island. Husband of the late Janice M. Ennis; father of Greg Ennis and Dawn (Bob) Janes both of Omaha, NE, Joanne (Ken) Witek of Washington, DC, Joseph (Roz) Vasi of Tonawanda, Jasen Vasi of Grand Island and Melissa (James) Bishop of Monroe, NC; also survived by 17 grandchildren and one great-grandson; brother of John (Nancy), Richard and the late Kenneth (survived by wife Alice) Ennis; son of the late John and Teresa Ennis. Memorial Services will be held Monday, June 13 at 5 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association , Mr. Ennis was a retired supervisor at Dunlop Tire for 33 years.
Edward E. Walgate, June 5, 2011, of Grand Island, formerly of Dunkirk; husband of Patricia Michalske Walgate and the late Joyce (Gugino) Walgate; father of Karen (Kevin) Schenk, Frances Walgate, Judith Walgate, Joyce (Blair) Mann and Elizabeth Walgate; grandfather of Kelly and Kristy Schenk, Megan and Edward Mann; great-grandfather of Devin and Alivia Mann; brother of Lorraine Wilcox Walgate, Daniel (Barbara) Walgate and the late Elmer "Moe" Walgate, Raymond Walgate and Agnes Dlugokinski, son of the late Elmer and Lena Walgate; also survived by several nieces and nephews. Friends may call Wednesday, June 8 from 2-4 & 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday, June 9 at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association or the Grand Island Nieghbors Foundation.
Bryan E. Johnson,
May 6, 2011, of Grand Island, formerly of DeRuyter, NY, husband of Sally D. Johnson; father of Pam, Tina (Robert) Foote, Travis Johnson, Sarah Comfort, Betsy and Chelsea Bergmann; also survived by grandchildren; brother of Charles W. "Johnny" (Joyce) Johnson, Jr., Sharon (Dave) Gaudio, Karen (Robert) Crandall and the late Thomas Johnson and Frances Willitts; son of the late Dorothy and Charles W. Johnson, Sr. Memorial Services will be held Saturday, June 11 at 5 PM at the Johnson Family Home, 1522 Ferry Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Let Them Laugh Out Loud. Donations at www.ltlol.com/inmemoryofbryanjohnson
Herbert W. Sullivan,
of Canton, GA, former Grand Island resident, died June 3, 2011 at the age of 88. Born February 3, 1923 in Lawrence, MA, son of the late Jerimiah J. and Helen L. (Yunggebauer) Sullivan. Survived by Abigail K. (Connor) Sullivan, wife of 64 years; sons, Michael W. Sullivan, the late Paul H. (Judith) Sullivan, Brian J. Sullivan; daughters, Alice H. (Robert) Farrell, Kathleen A. (Derek) Day; six grandchildren, five great- grandchildren; sisters, Helen (Kenneth) Volk, Louise Love; brothers, Richard A. (Dorothy) Sullivan, the late Jeremiah J. Sullivan; numerous nieces and nephews. Dr. Sullivan was a graduate of Lawrence High School 1940, attended State Teacher's College, Salem, MA 1940-1942, United States Army 1942-1946, Graduate of Boston University 1947, M Ed Boston University 1949, D Ed Hofstra University 1972, Hempstead, NY. Taught in Groveland, MA, Warwick, RI, Andover, MA, Huntington, NY, Herricks Long Island, NY. Retired in 1985 as Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction, Grand Island, NY. Past President of Western Zone NY State Retired Teachers Association, President Grand Island Teachers Credit Union, President Samaritan Pastoral Council, Buffalo, NY. An active member of the Roman Catholic Church. Visitation will be Monday, June 6, 2011, from 4:00 - 8:00 PM at SOUTH CANTON FUNERAL HOME, 3147 Marietta Hwy., Canton, GA 30114 (770) 479-3377. Mass of Resurrection will be held 11:00 AM, Tuesday, June 7th at St. Michael the Archangel Church, 490 Arnold Mill Rd., Woodstock, GA 30188. Interment in Georgia National Cemetery, Canton. GA. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.thescfh.com.
Leona E. (nee Bille) McGaffin, of Grand Island, NY, on May 31, 2011 at Warminster, PA, beloved wife of the late Harry
McGaffin; devoted mother of Jean Brennan (the late Martin) of Grand Island and Michael (Judith) McGaffin of Warminster, PA; survived by five grandchildren, nine
great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. Private family service. Donations in her name may be made to AMH Hospice, 2510 Maryland Rd, Suite 250, Willow
Grove, PA 19090. Or to a charity of your choice, Written condolences may be made to: www.deckerfuneralhome.com
James John Skindell,
born in Punxsutawney, PA, June 26, 1932, died peacefully at home, June 2, 2011, of Mesothelioma. Grand Island resident since 1967, formerly of Erie, PA; preceeded in death by his wife of 49 years Marian Wiley; beloved father of Susan (Norman) Bauman and Lori (Douglas) Banker of California; grandfather of Andrew Banker of Alaska, Faith and Wyatt Bauman; brother of Cecilia Wolbert and the late Vincent and Joseph Skindell; survived by many loving nieces and nephews; dear friend of Diane Szpak. Friends may call Sunday, June 5 from 2-4 & 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, June 6 at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo or the Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial VFW Post #9249. Jim was a Korean War Veteran in the US Navy and proudly served on the USS Missouri.
Stanley A. Ziomek, 76, of Wheatfield, formerly of Grand Island, NY, was called to his heavenly home on Sunday, May 29, 2011, while at the V.A. Medical Center in Buffalo. Born in Buffalo, NY, on August 11, 1934 to the late Phillip and Julia (Sobus) Ziomek.
Stan is a U.S. Navy veteran and served during the Korean War. He was employed as a Maintenance Technician with Rural/Metro Ambulance, until his retirement. Stan was a member of the Niagara River Yacht Club and served as a past Commodore, member of the Wheatfield Senior Citizens and an Exempt member of the St. Johnsburg Fire Company and Fire Police, where he served as past secretary and president. He was a boating enthusiast and enjoyed being on the water.
Survivors include his loving wife, MaryJane (Stefanski) Ziomek. They were united in marriage on May 30, 1959; six children, Karen (Jon) Faulkner of Cambria, Jeffrey (Janiese) Ziomek of Cape Coral, FL, Denise (Kris) Hamilton of Grand Island, Thomas (Kelly) Ziomek of Pataskala, OH, Gary (Michelle) Ziomek and Gail (Bob) Connery both of Wheatfield; and twelve grandchildren, Jeremy, Jenna, Brogan, Declan, Joe, Tom, Evan, Aaron, Brendan, Dylan, Zack and Jake.
Friends may call at the DUBOIS FUNERAL HOME, 2436 Niagara Road, (Bergholz) in Wheatfield on Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, June 1st in St. Jude the Apostle Church, 800 Niagara Falls Blvd., North Tonawanda.
Michael Lovetro, 59, formerly of Grand Island, of Belleview, Florida, died May 22, 2011 peacefully in his sleep. Mike (Pugs) was born August 8 1951, in Buffalo, New York, to Sam and Mary Lovetro.
He attended and wrestled for Grand Island High School winning the sectionals in 1968.
He enjoyed sports, gardening and playing with his dog, Emily and was a lifelong, ardent fan of the Buffalo Bills. He was a loving husband to Janet, they were together for 23 years. Mike travelled the country working in the carnival for 25 years and was considered a top agent. He and his wife eventually settled in Florida.
He is survived by his wife Janet of Ocala, FL; mother and father, Mary and Sam Lovetro of Payson, AZ; brothers Pat of Grand Island; Jim of Payson, AZ; Joe of Texas; and sister Donna of Mesa, Az; his children Rachel Lovetro Taylor, Jessica Lovetro, both of Michigan and Tony Lovetro of Scottsdale, AZ; and two grandchildren, Nathan and Kayla Taylor.
Arrangements are with A Direct Cremations of Gainsville, FL.
Robert S. "Hondo" Hondzinski, of Buffalo, May 21, 2011, age 74, beloved husband of Judith A. (nee Harmon) Hondzinski; loving father of Marie A. (Richard) Chiddy and Diane L. (Patrick) Finn; cherished grandfather of Gabrielle, Robert, Megan and Lisa; caring brother of Leonard J. (late Marion), Arthur (Michelle), Mary (late Leonard) Cohen and the late Stephen (Sharon) Hondzinski; also survived by nieces and nephews. The family will be present on Tuesday, May 24 from 7-9 PM and Wednesday, May 25 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the (Tonawanda Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 2600 Sheridan Drive (corner of Parker Blvd.) where prayers will be offered on Thursday, May 26 at 8:15 AM, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial celebrated from St. Amelia Church at 9 AM. Friends invited. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Autism Society of WNY, Summit Educational Services. Share your condolences at www.AMIGONE.com. An officer on the Grand Island Police Department for many years, Robert also patrolled on the day shift on Grand Island for most of his career with the Erie County Sheriff's Department.
Kathleen M. (nee Carey) Cich,
of Grand Island, NY, May 20, 2011. Beloved wife of David Cich Sr; loving mother of Dawn McCarthy, Marty (Melissa) McCarthy; step-mother of Lisa (Steve) Gettings and David M. Cich Jr.; dear sister of Sharon (Thomas) Smith and late Joseph Carey; cherished grandmother of seven. The family will receive friends Sunday, May 22 from 4-8 at the O'CONNELL-MURPHY FUNERAL HOME, 2286 South Park Avenue, where funeral will be held Monday, May 23 at 1 PM. Rev. Kenneth Babcock, officiating. Donations may be made to Hospice of Buffalo, 225 Como Park Blvd., Cheektowaga, NY. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.oconnellfh.net
Emily (nee Mamon) Mroziak,
96, of Grand Island, entered eternal life on May 17, 2011, at 3 PM, the hour of Divine Mercy. Wife of the late Joseph J. Mroziak; mother of the late Thomas Mroziak and MaryAnn Johns. Beloved mother-in-law of Mary-Elizabeth Mroziak, Grand Island and Robert "Scott" Johns, Palmetto, FL; dearest grandmother of Michael (JoAnne) Mroziak and Dr. Melissa (Christopher) Mroziak-Hartwick; great-grandmother of Sarah, Kari and Emma; sister of Julia (Frank) Forys of Cheektowaga; survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins; sister of the late Charles, Edward, John, Joseph and Anthony Mamon; Helen Czyzowski, Josephine Kania and Victoria Jonak. Friends may call on Thursday from 3-7 PM at the LABUDA FUNERAL HOME, INC., 356 Portage Rd, Niagara Falls, NY 14303 (716) 284-1573, where funeral services will be held on Friday, May 20 at 9 AM followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 AM at Divine Mercy Parish, corner of Niagara and 24th Sts, Niagara Falls, with Rev. Jacek P. Mazur, officiating. Interment in Holy Trinity Cemetery, Lewiston. Flowers are gratefully declined. Memorial donations may be made to Heart and Soul Pantry, 939 Ontario Ave, Niagara Falls, NY 14305 or Catholic Charities, 741 Delaware Ave, Buffalo, NY 14209.
Mildred Blumoff, formerly of Grand Island, passed away, peacefully, on Monday, May 16, 2011, at Crestwood Health Care Facility. She was 100 years old. She was born in Brooklyn, NY on July 26, 1910, a daughter of Alexander and Rose (Haas) Foeppel.
Mrs. Blumoff was educated in New York City and moved to the area in the mid 1940’s. She was a secretary at Pacific Avenue School until her retirement in 1971. She enjoyed cooking, reading and was very active in the Temple Beth El Sisterhood.
She is survived by her daughter, Roslyn (Robert) Bartholomay of Grand Island; sister-in-law, Gladys Foeppel; step-granddaughter, Nini (Dan) Silver-MacDonald and her son, Duncan and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband of 39 years, Barnett (1975); her son, Walter Blumoff (1995); four siblings, Vera, Ferdinand and Jerome Foeppel, Helen Howard; and her longtime companion, Saul Goodman.
Friends may call at the LANE FUNERAL HOME INC., 8622 Buffalo Avenue, on Thursday, May 19 from 1 to 5 PM. If desired, donations may be made to Temple Beth El, 720 Ashland Ave., Niagara Falls, NY 14301.
Visit www.LaneFuneralHome.com.
Albert Jircitano, May 11, 2011, of Grand Island, NY, beloved husband of Iris A. (Landeen); dear father of Matthew Jircitano and Aimee (Anthony) Emmi; brother of Grace Vaughan, Ross (Lois) Eracitano, Arthur (Doreen) Jircitano; grandfather of Nicholas, Joshua, Emily, Anthony, Madeline and Paul; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Mass Tuesday, May 17 at 10 a.m. at St Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Niagara Hospice. Arrangements by BUFFALO NIAGARA CREMATION SERVICE, 855-1411.
Gilbert R. Smith Jr., of North Tonawanda, May 8, 2011, age 85, a 32 year resident of Grand Island. Husband of the late Theresa J. Smith; devoted father of Gilbert (Adrianne) Smith, Julie (Jay) Deveso and Kathleen (John) MacClellan; dearest grandfather of nine and great-grandfather of six. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held SATURDAY, May 14 at 10:00 AM from St. Stephen's R.C. Church, Grand Island. Memorials may be made to the Salvation Army. Mr. Smith was a WWII Navy Veteran, he was a retired electrical engineer for Union Carbide. Arrangements by WATTENGEL Funeral Home (692-0440). On line guest registry at www.Wattengel.com
Monica T. (nee Kasprzyk) Kasprzak, May 11, 2011 of Grand Island, NY; beloved wife of the late Walter J. Kasprzak; dearest mother of Rosemarie (Gregory), Joanne (Timothy) Kud, Ronald (Constance) Kasprzak; dear grandmother of Jacquelynn, Derek, Kevin Kud, Jennifer (Melvin) Kirchner, Robert and Krystle Kasprzak; great-grandmother of Joshua and Erica; sister of the late Rev. John Kasprzyk, Mary (Anthony) Lewandowski, Joseph (late Florence) and Bronislaus (late Emily) Kasprzyk; also survived by nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends may call at the BARRON-MILLER FUNERAL HOME INC., 3025 William St. (near Union Rd.) Cheektowaga Friday, May 13 from 4-8 PM. Mass of Christian Burial Saturday at 9:30 AM in St. Stanislaus Church, Peckham and Fillmore. Please assemble at church.
Anne M. Brophy, May 8, 2011, age 63, beloved daughter of the late John W. and Betty (Hall) Brophy; dear mother of John (Suzettte Tulip) D'Aloise, Mary Frances (Kevin) Dell both of Niagara Falls, NY and Jennifer D'Aloise of Lewiston, NY; loving grandmother of Daniel Dinsmore, Krystle D'Aloise, Samantha Dinsmore, Angela D'Aloise, Jacob Dell, Sean Dinsmore, Anthony D'Aloise, Kacie D'Aloise, Zack, Allie and Courtney Dell; great-grandmother of Aiden, Brenna and Andrew; sister of the late Elizabeth McGrath. A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday, May 12 at 10:30 AM at St. Mary of the Cataract Church. 259 Fourth St., Niagara Falls, NY. Friends invited. Entombment will be in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Lewiston. If desired, memorials may be made in Anne's memory to the Shriner's Hospital for Crippled Children, 1645 West 8th St., Erie, PA 16505. Arrangements by SPALLINO-AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, 1300 Pine Ave., Niagara Falls, NY. Share your condolences at www.AMIGONE.com.
Susan (Bobro) Overs,
age 87, of Frederick, MD, formerly a longtime resident of Grand Island, NY, died on Sunday, May 8, 2011, at her home. Wife of the late George Arthur Overs; dear mother of Cameron (Martha) Overs; grandmother of Staff Sgt. Jonathan Overs, USMC, Julia (Josh) Kuipers and Laura Overs; and her lifelong friend, Gloria Towsley. She was preceded in death by five siblings, Paul, Helen, Sabina, Mary and Julia. Friends may call at the LESTER H. WEDEKINDT INC. FUNERAL HOME, 3290 Delaware Ave, on Wednesday, May 11 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM. Services will be at 10 AM on Thursday, May 12 at St. Martins in the Field Episcopal Church. Interment will be in Elmlawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to St. Martins in the Field Episcopal Church, 2587 Baseline Rd, Grand Island, NY 14072.
Barbara M. Householder Russo, 58, of Kennett Square, passed away on Saturday Dec. 2, 2006, at the Chester County Hospital.
Barbara was the wife of John "Jack" J. Russo, with whom she shared 37 years of marriage.
Born in Buffalo, N.Y. she was the daughter of the late James and Bernice Koch Householder.
Barbara was a Teller at the Peoples Bank of Oxford's Longwood branch for the past 10 years.
She was a member of St. Patrick's Church in Kennett Square. She was an avid Phillies and Buffalo Bills fan.
She enjoyed going for walks in Longwood Gardens, spending time with her family and friends, especially spending
time with her grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, Barbara is survived by two sons, Brent J. Russo and his wife, Tracey of Parkesburg,
and Jason J. Russo and his wife Corinne, of Oxford, one sister, Bonnie King, of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and
three grandchildren.
A Mass of Christian burial will be offered at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday 10:00 a.m. Wednesday Dec. 6 at St. Patrick Church,
212 Meredith St., Kennett Square. Burial will be in Longwood Cemetery, Kennett Square.
In memory of Barbara, a contribution may be made to the
American Cancer Society, 1615 West Chester Pike, Suite 102, West Chester, PA 19382.
Donald H. Perry,
May 7, 2011, of Grand Island, NY, beloved husband of Toni (nee Caffarelli) Perry; dearest father of Donald H. Perry III and Scott (Janet) Perry; cherished Pa of Samantha Rose Perry; loving son of Donald and Virginia (nee Will) Perry; dear brother of Richard (Ida) Perry. He is also survived by his loving nieces and nephews. Mr. Perry was a member of the Steamfitters Local # 395 and the former Superintendent of Buildings and Grounds for the Grand Island Central School District. The family will be present on Tuesday, May 10 from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at the GRECO FUNERAL HOME, 2909 Elmwood Ave. in Kenmore. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, May 11 at 10:00 AM at St. Stephen R.C. Church, 2100 Baseline Road on Grand Island. Friends invited. All are asked to assemble at the church. A private interment will be held on Thursday at Mt. Calvary. Share your condolences at www.GRECOfuneral.com.
Timothy Edward Sheehan , 76, an award-winning television advertising director, died April 25, 2011. See Death Notice
Arthur J. Caggiano, April 30, 2011, 90, beloved husband of Doris M. (nee Penaro) Caggiano; dear father of Keith Caggiano and Dennis Caggiano; brother of the late Josephine D'Anna, late Robert Caggiano, late Phyllis Sawicki, late Carmen Caggiano, late Louis Caggiano, late Ralph Caggiano and the late Nick Caggiano; also survived by many nieces and nephews. The family will be present to receive friends Wednesday, May 4 from 3-8 PM at the SPALLINO-AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, 1300 Pine Ave., Niagara Falls, NY where prayers will be said Thursday, May 5 at 9:15 AM and at Holy Family of Jesus, Mary & Joseph Parish at St. Joseph Church at 10:00 AM. Friends invited. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Military Order of the Purple Heart or Niagara University Scholarship Fund for Athletics and Nursing. Share your condolences at www.AMIGONE.com.
Rev. Edwin L.”Ted” Pfohl Jr.
Pastor Ted Pfohl went to be with his Lord on Sunday, May 1, 2011, due to sudden illness. Beloved son of Marcia (nee Cota) Pfohl and the late Edwin L. Pfohl, Sr.; devoted brother of Margaret Sano, Rev. Jeffrey (Lori) Pfohl, Marcia Pfohl, Jun Sano and the late Sgt. Roswell Pfohl III; cherished uncle of Kelsey (Trea) Garza, Lindsey and Leah Pfohl and Roswell Sano; dear nephew of Francis (Maryellen) Pfohl, Margaret (Norman) Bauman and Jane (John) August; dearest cousin of Norman (Sue) Bauman Jr., Dennis Bauman, Laurie Kalman, Amy (Grant) McKnight, Paul Bauman, Matthew (Anna) Bauman, Francis (Kathy) Pfohl Jr., Kathy (Eddie) Ellisor, Michael (Lora) Pfohl, Shoshanah and Ariel August. Ted was a very special man who is greatly loved by many. Using the Internet Ted touched many lives globally through Christian Witness and Counseling. His humility, humor, giving spirit and continual desire to sow love made him an extraordinary role model to all who knew him. Few words can adequately express this loving and giving man who walked this earth for 48 years. He will be greatly missed and remembered with love, respect and gratitude. Relatives and friends may visit the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northtowns Chapel), 885 Niagara Falls Blvd. near Eggert/Sheridan Dr. on Thursday, May 5 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM where the funeral will be held on Friday morning, May 6 at 10:30 o'clock. Memorials may be made to C.B.N. Relief Fund. Online condolences may be made at www. lombardofuneralhome.com
Memories of Dorothy Bascomb
Memorial Service - Self Portrait (scroll down)
A Memoiral Service For Dorothy Bascomb will be held at 5 p.m. Thursday, June 9 in the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Road
by Lenore Tetkowski
Dorothy Bascomb passed away about a month before her 98th birthday on April 29. She seemed to be asleep in her chair that afternoon when her daughter, Betty, realized she had so calmly and quietly passed on. ³I knew it would happen, but it was still a shock,² said Betty. Many of us who knew and loved Dorothy feel the same way.
We had just bought the property on Whitehaven Road when Dorothy crossed the street to welcome us. Soon learned that each family had a two-year-old. That was sixty years ago. So our families were neighbors and close friends as the years brought changes. Nursery school carpools, Little League, barbecues, birthday parties, shared holiday meals joined us closer.
Ours was a dependable deep friendship through power outages and far more serious loss.
At each stage of her life, Dorothy was creative and contributed to
the community. After retiring as librarian at the Campus School at Buffalo
State College, Dorothy became the first director of the Grand Island Golden Age Center.
About twenty years ago, Betty convinced Dorothy to move in with her
family in Dansville. A cozy apartment was made there, and Dorothy joined a
creative writing group. Some of her memoirs of her childhood with a medical doctor father who made home visits in a horse and buggy have been published.
Always generous, she continued to create original greeting cards for her many friends, sometimes incorporating tiny dried flowers.
The lilac bush in front of my house is about to bloom again, an annual gift from Dorothy¹s husband, Larry, to my husband a great many years ago.
The Bascomb family plans a graveside memorial service to be held in Salamanca in early June.
Major Bill F. Jacobs, Jr., USAF Retired, age 68 of San Antonio, Texas passed away on April 23, 2011. He was born to William Francis and Leota Moeller Jacobs on August 29, 1942 in Buffalo, NY and grew up on Grand Island, NY. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Marion Elizabeth Jacobs; his three children Trevor Jacobs, Gary Jacobs, and Elizabeth Ann Jacobs; his daughter-in-law and granddaughter by his son Gary, Julie Chantal Jacobs and Gwendolyn Rose Jacobs; and his two sisters Gail Howe and Nanette Haller and their husbands and children. He received a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering from the University of New York at Buffalo and a Master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of Northern Colorado. He was a Vietnam War veteran and served 20 years in the USAF. He worked for more than 35 years in industrial, civil, and environmental engineering. Prior to joining the USAF, he started his career at Chevrolet-Tonawanda. Following his military retirement, he worked for Modern Technologies Corporation and as an Associate at Booz Allen Hamilton. He was very physically active and at different times enjoyed baseball, basketball, bowling, football, golf, softball and tennis. His hobbies included gardening, where he grew grapefruit trees from seeds, spending time outdoors photographing wildlife and playing Scrabble. He was an avid fan of the San Antonio Spurs, Dallas Cowboys and Buffalo Bills. He passed away at his home after a three-year battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s disease). Graveside services and interment will be held at 9 a.m. on May 2, 2011 at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, with full military honors. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the ALS Association, South Texas Chapter.
Eleanor Zernickel ,
Monday, April 25, 2011, wife of Karl Zernickel, Sr.; mother of Sheila (Craig) Davis, Karl (Lisa) Jr., Lilli Ann (Patrick McCauley) Zernickel; sister of Jeannie (Marc) LaBarre, the late Josephine Frost; also surviving are six grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Friends may call Wednesday from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd, Grand Island. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday at 10 AM from St. Stephen Roman Catholic Church, Grand Island, New York 14072-2059. Memorials may be made to Roswell Park Cancer Institute.
Georgena E. (nee Pitts) Shores ,
of Grand Island, entered into rest, April 25, 2011. Beloved wife of Victor Shores; devoted mother of Lisa (Alan) Carey, Gena Heusinger, Dona (Charles) Trautwein and Jennifer (Ed) Fairbairn; fond step-mother of Victor Jr. (Pat), Christopher (Kimberly) and Vincent (Jamie) Shores; cherished grandmother of 21 grandchildren and one great-grandchild; loving daughter of the late Elmer and Magdeline (nee Popp) Pitts; dear sister of the late Elmer and Leroy Pitts; also survived by several nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends may visit the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northtowns Chapel), 885 Niagara Falls Blvd. near Eggert/Sheridan Dr. on Wednesday, April 27 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM. Funeral service will be held at First Trinity Lutheran Church, 1570 Niagara Falls Blvd., Tonawanda on Thursday morning at 10 o'clock (Please assemble at church). Interment Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Online condolences may be made at www. lombardofuneralhome.com
Robert E. Kindred, April 25, 2011, son of the late Edward and Ruth Kindred; loving brother of Dale C. (late Betty) Kindred; fond uncle of many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. Friends received on Wednesday from 4-8 PM and on Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at the NIGHTENGALE FUNERAL HOME, 1884 South Park Ave (near Tifft), where services will be held on Friday at 10:30 AM. Friends invited. Bob was a longtime member of West Seneca Lodge No. 1111 F&AM, under whose auspices a service will be held on Thursday at 7:30 PM, 32nd Degree Mason Valley of Buffalo, Ismailia Shrine. Flowers gratefully declined. If desired, contributions may be made to Ismailia Shrine Children's Travel Fund, c/o 1600 Southwestern Blvd, West Seneca 14224.
Alice E. (Roy) Symonds, April 14, 2011. Wife of the late John P. Symonds Sr.; loving mother of Robert (Nancy), Roland (Mary) Powers, Diane (Kenneth) Biggie, Richard (Sandy), Roy (Judy) Powers, Kelly O'Keefe, Linda (Mike) Lichtenthal, Diane (David) Holm, Mary (Norman) Christiansen, Dana (Denise) Symonds, Eleanor (Charles) Tyler and the late Timothy (Deborah) O'Keefe; survived by 19 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild; sister of the late Robert Roy, Harold Rogers and John Carroll. Friends may call Monday 4-8 PM at the DENGLER, ROBERTS, PERNA FUNERAL HOME, 3000 Delaware Ave., Kenmore. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered Tuesday, 9:30 AM at St. Christopher's Church. Memorials to SPCA serving Erie County. www.denglerrobertspernafuneral.com
Bret M. Lynch, April 22, 2011, beloved husband of Tracey (nee Ross) Lynch; loving son of Marice B. Lynch and Earl M. (Ruth) Lynch; dearest brother of Kelle (Donn) McMahon and Jessica (Anthony) Gray; devoted grandson of Otha (Nana) Flood and Lydia Lynch; brother-in-law of Desiree Ross Paige; also survived by 10 nieces and nephews. Friends may call on Wednesday, April 27 from 2-4 PM, and the family will be present 6-8 PM and on Thursday, April 28 from 11:00 AM to Noon at the (Delaware Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 1132 Delaware Ave. (near West Ferry) where Funeral Services will follow at Noon. Flowers are gratefully declined. If desired, memorials may be made to Autism Speaks http://events.autismspeaks.org/tributes/bretlynch.
Buffalo News
November 3, 1964 - April 22, 2011
Bret M. Lynch, a corrections officer and a leader in the Grand Island Fire Company, died last Friday in Millard Fillmore Hospital. He was 46.
A Buffalo native, Mr. Lynch graduated from Grand Island High School, where he played football and was a member of the Student Council and debate teams. He studied political science at Canisius College.
For 23 years, Mr. Lynch was employed as a state corrections officer.
A certified emergency medical technician, he served as vice president and president of Grand Island Volunteer Fire Company, where he was a member for 27 years.
He also was a Democratic Party committeeman on Grand Island and was active in youth organizations and college preparatory programs.
Survivors include his wife, the former Tracey Ross; his parents, Marice B. and Earl M.; two sisters, Kelle McMahon and Jessica Gray; and grandparents Otha Flood and Lydia Lynch.
Services were Thursday (April 28, 2011).
Anthony LaChiusa, of Grand Island, entered into rest, April 18, 2011. Beloved husband of the late Mary (nee Ferrara) LaChiusa; devoted father of Charles A. (Nancy) LaChiusa and Eleanor (James) McCarthy; cherished grandfather of Nicole (David) Stewart, Elise (Daniel) McVeigh and James (Diane) McCarthy; fond great-grandfather of seven great-grandchildren; loving son of the late Charles and Eleanora LaChiusa; pre-deceased by two brothers and one sister; survived by relatives and friends. No prior visitation. Private service. Entombment Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Arrangements by the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME. Online condolences may be made at www.lombardo funeralhome.com
Alice Lorraine Harper, 84, of Ransomville, died Monday, April 11, 2011 in Buffalo General Hospital.
Alice was born May 24, 1926 in Petersburg, VA, the daughter of the late Andrew Leigh and Alice Lorraine (McFadden) Parham. She married Owsley D. Harper on April 6, 1979 and moved to Ransomville from Grand Island in 1969. Owsley predeceased her in 1979. Alice enjoyed gardening and spending time with her grandchildren.
She is survived by her children, Leigh Harper, Teresa Robelo and Shelley Andrews; her grandchildren, Laura and Kathryn Harper, Benjamin, David and Katia Robelo, Ian and Dillon Andrews. She was predeceased by a son, Steven G. Harper.
Friends may call at HARDISON FUNERAL HOME, 3648 Ransomville Road, Ransomville on Wednesday, April 13 from 5-8 PM. Services and interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Ransomville Vol. Fire Co. Ambulance Fund, PO Box 239, Ransomville, NY 14131.
Rosalyn “Roz” Butler, of Grand Island, NY, died on Wednesday, February 16, 2011 in Kenmore Mercy Hospital. She was 86. She was born in Piercefield, NY, the daughter of the late Clinton and Helen (McSween) Webber. The family moved to Niagara Falls in 1933, where she resided until moving to Grand Island with her late husband, Henry J. Butler.
Rosalyn and her late husband were both graduates of the former LaSalle Jr./Sr. High School. They had enjoyed attending all of their class reunions, especially the classes of the World War II years, celebrating the anniversary of Pearl Harbor each year. Rosalyn worked at Bell Aircraft during the WW II years as an assembler on the production line, later working at the former International Paper Company in the Finishing Room until 1958. She was a life time member of the DAV Auxiliary.
She was an active member of the Bishop Duffy High School Mother's Club, St. John de LaSalle R.C. Church, its Rosary/Altar Society and participated in the Martha's organization since its inception. Rosalyn was a Communicant of St. Stephen's Church, Grand Island. She served as a volunteer on the church building fund mailings and for the annual Catholic Charities Appeal. Numerous charitable organizations benefited from her generosity.
Survivors include her son, Patrick (Patricia) Butler of Williamsville; her grandson, Christian (Nicole) Butler of Tonawanda, NY; step-granddaughters, Rebecca (Donny) Ferenz of Connecticut, Carolyn Pokorski of Cheektowaga; her great-grandchildren, Isabelle Butler and Eden Schwanke will sorely miss her along with her numerous nieces and nephews, especially niece, Lisa Smith of Niagara Falls. She is also survived by her siblings, Roland Webber, Harley Webber, Colyn Webber and Neila Smith. In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by her sister, Jocyline Woodcock.
Rosalyn valued all her family and friends through the many years of her life. Her sense of humor, generosity, good will and positive attitude were the gifts she gave the world. She will brighten heaven with her effervescent personality.
There will be no prior visitation. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday at 10 AM in St. John de LaSalle RC Church, 8477 Buffalo Avenue, Niagara Falls. The interment will be private in Holy Name Cemetery, Tupper Lake, NY. If desired, memorials may be made to Buffalo Hospice, 225 Como Park Blvd., PO Box 590, Buffalo, NY 14240; St. John’s Fund, 8469 Buffalo Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY 14304, or St. Stephen's Fund, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island, NY. Arrangements by LANE FUNERAL HOME, INC.
Geraldine A. Schutt, April 13, 2011, formerly of Grand Island; wife of the late Raymond Schutt; sister of Violet (late Charles) Lawrence, Edward (Marcia) Schutt, Carlton (Lynn) Schutt and the late Ronald Schutt, Edna Mae (late Joseph) Delaney and Clarence Schutt; daughter of the late Clarence and Alvina Schutt; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Wednesday, April 20 from 4-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral services will be held Thursday, April 21 at 10 AM at Trinity United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.
Edward G. Weiser Jr.,
April 9, 2011, of Grand Island, husband of 62 years of Mildred A. Weiser; father of Milanne (Tom) Buchholz, Melisse and Edward G. (Bonnie) Weiser III; grandfather of Tim (Anna Nummelin) Buchholz, Kimberly (Nick) Pressley, Edward G. IV and Ashley Weiser; also survived by four great- grandchildren; son of the late Catherine and Edward G. Weiser, Sr.; brother of the late Hazel Nailor. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Saturday, April 16 at 12 Noon at St. Stephen's Church, Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Heritage Christian Services, 349 West Commercial St., East Rochester, NY 14445. Mr. Weiser was a WW II veteran who served in the Pacific. He worked at Bell Aerospace for 30 years. He was a 3rd Degree Knight of Columbus and enjoyed family, friends, gardening, biking, skiing, wine making, golfing, fishing and had a terrific sense of humor.
Janice M. Ennis, April 9, 2011, of Grand Island, wife of Harry W. Ennis; mother of Greg Ennis, Joanne (Ken) Witek, Dawn (Bob) Janes, Joe (Roz) Vasi, Jasen Vasi and Melissa (Jim) Bishop; also survived by 17 grandchildren and one great-grandson; sister of Joanne Buell and the late Stephen Powroznik. Memorial Services will be held Tuesday, April 12 at 4 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island.
Joseph Raymond Zoeckler,
died in Albuquerque, New Mexico (formerly of Grand Island, NY) on Saturday March 26th, 2011, 2 days before his 54th birthday. He is survived by his son Leo Zucker Zoeckler, his mother Catherine Brogan Zoeckler, his brothers Bob, Michael and John Zoeckler, his sister Barbara Gregoire, and many loving friends including his former wife Joan Zucker, his sister-in-law Lisa Crowe, Anthony Templeton and Roger and Sandy Deale.Joe was born in Niagara Falls, N.Y, the son of Catherine and Donald Zoeckler. He grew up in Grand Island, New York and graduated from Grand Island High School. He attended the State University of New York at Buffalo and received his BA in Political Science while also pursuing his violin studies. Soon after graduating, he traveled to Venezuela to perform as a violinist in the Filarmonica de Caracas and later as Associate Concertmaster of the Filarmonica de Merida. Joe played violin in many other orchestras and festivals throughout the United States, including the Jacksonville Symphony, the Orchestra of Santa Fe, and as Concertmaster of the Santa Fe Desert Chorale. He moved to New Mexico in 1983, and helped establish the Santa Fe Symphony. He joined the New Mexico Symphony Orchestra in 1983 and was Assistant Concertmaster of the NMSO from 1989 until his death. During his NMSO tenure Joe charmed many second and third graders while leading NMSO String Quintet performances at dozens of Albuquerque elementary schools. Joe was also an extremely talented private violin teacher. Sadly, health problems prevented him from the active pursuit of his musical passion during the last few years of his life. Joe loved to travel. He especially enjoyed the out-of-doors, whether skiing, swimming or gardening. An avid hiker and backpacker, he and Joan tackled trails from the Andes to the Himalayas and from China to Belize, in addition to many mountain ranges in the U.S. He also enjoyed hiking and camping trips with his siblings and parents. Joe adored children and was a loving and playful father and uncle. His family and friends will always remember him as a talented, cheerful and above all kind man, with a marvelous sense of humor and a ready smile. He will be sorely missed.
Robert G. Cortright,
87, of East Aurora (formerly of Grand Island, NY) passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 5, 2011 in Mercy Hospital surrounded by his loving family. Born September 12, 1923 in Buffalo, he was the son of the late Robert H. and Louise (Wheeler) Cortright. Robert served his country during WWII in the Army Air Force; the (USAAF) were the military aviation arm of the United States of America during and immediately after World War II. Robert worked as a Millwright for Western Electric in Tonawanda for over 32 years until his retirement. After he retired, Robert became a self-taught Locksmith to help pass the days of retirement. Robert loved to ride bicycles, especially with his Brother Richard who had the great honor to ride for the U.S. Olympic team. He was a gifted builder and handyman and was always available to assist his family with any task, none too big. Robert also loved to hunt and fish. Most of all he loved to make people laugh with his jokes and witty sense of humor. Robert was a member of the VFW Post 416 in Amherst, NRA and CWA. Besides his parents Robert is predeceased by his Son Robert H. Cortright and his Brother Richard Cortright. Survivors include his loving wife of 37 years Joanne (Brown) Cortright whom he married June 8, 1974; one Daughter Christy L. (Richard) Dybalski; three grandchildren Denise Phelph, Deborah Steel and Deanna Lightcap and two great-grandchildren Dalen and Destiny. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews. As per Robert's wishes there will be no services. Contributions can be made in Robert's memory to Hospice of Buffalo or to a charity of one's choice. Arrangements have been entrusted to KENNETH HOWE FUNERAL HOME, East Aurora. Online condolences are available www.howefuneralhome.com.
Katherina Elizabeth Dudley Feyerabend , November 17, 1934 to April 4, 2011; Age 76; of Grand Island; loved by: her treasured husband Gerald Feyerabend (deceased); her Children and Step-children John Dudley, Laurie Dudley (deceased), Paul (Lana) Dudley, Michael (Lisa) Dudley, Judy (Ron) Fachko, Janet Reyes; her grandchildren Christine, Jonathon, Adrienne, Nicholas, Michael, Kara, Eric, Amber, Alyssa, Amanda, Carla, and her Great-grandchildren; Gianni and Arabella. Family will be present Saturday, April 9 from 1-2 PM followed by memorial service at 2:00 PM at Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Family members request that in lieu of flowers, donations be made, in her name, to the American Cancer Society , Hospice Buffalo or the Muscular Dystrophy Assn.
Martha "Dolly" Dilliot ,
April 3, 2011, of Grand Island; wife of the late Arnold Dilliot; mother of Tammy (Mark) DeBole and Kevin (Lisa) Dilliot; grandmother of Cori and Jason Sexton, Joshua DeBole, Amanda, Heather and Rebecca Dilliot; sister of Skip (Linda) Uonites, Floydette (Bob) Gannon and Paula Jean Tickner; also survived by many adored nieces and nephews. Friends may call Wednesday, April 6 from 10 AM - 1 PM followed by memorial services Wednesday at 1 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Memorials may be made to the Grand Island Fire Co.
Virginia J. Hanley, 74, of Delevan, NY, died Tuesday, March 29, 2011 at the Pines Health Care Center in Machias, NY, former Grand Island, NY resident. Born in Niagara Falls, NY on March 20, 1937, she was a daughter of Jeanette (Wodo) and Theodore Niemiec. Virginia was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Theodore Niemiec, Jr. Virginia is survived by six children, Sharon Hanley of Hagerstown, MD, Darlene (Joe) Towsley of Kansas City, MO, James Hanley of Arcade, NY, Laurie (George) Sasse of Virginia Beach, VA, Thomas Hanley of Boston, NY and Susanne Hanley of Bliss, NY; 13 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Virginia will be greatly missed by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and her many friends. She was a homemaker, mother and a long-time employee at Value Home Center in Hamburg, NY. Virginia also enjoyed working at the Red Barrel Cider Mill in Boston, NY. There will be no memorial services as requested by Virginia. Donations to the Pines Health Care Center in Virginia's name would be gladly accepted and appreciated.
Edna P. (nee Venator) Hardison, March 31, 2011. Beloved wife of the late Edward W. Hardison; devoted mother of Katherine (Dennis) Jedd, Patricia (Clarence "Butch") Carrick, Joan (Douglas) Gregory, Michael (Patricia) Hardison, late Edward R. and the late Donald Hardison; loving grandmother of many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; step-sister of Ramona (Robert) Burdick and Patricia Venator. Visitation at the BUSZKA FUNERAL HOME INC., 2005 Clinton St., (corner S. Ogden) Sunday, April 3 from 4-7 PM at which time Funeral Services will be held. Pastor George Walsh officiating.
Thomas Robert McCauley, 48, of Spring, TX passed away on March 22, 2011 in Spring, TX. Tom was born on March 5, 1963 in the Town of Tonawanda, New York to Robert Thomas and Rosemary McCauley. He was preceded in death by his dear mother, Rosemary. He is survived by his loving family: father, Robert T. McCauley; sister, Joanne March; brother, Patrick McCauley; and Lilly Zernickel; cousins, Tina March, Donald March and Kayla McCauley. Tom was born and raised in New York and graduated from Grand Island High School in NY. He later moved to the Houston area where he worked in the restaurant industry as a Chef. Some of Tom's special interests in his life were watching sports, landscaping his garden and cooking for family and friends. He was a loving and caring son, brother and friend who will be dearly missed. The family will receive friends at Conroe Funeral Directors on Friday March 25, 2011 from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. At 5 p.m. a special observance will be conducted by The Rev. Gerald Manchester honoring Tom's life.
Kevin Patrick Dobson Sr.,
NY State Trooper March 26, 2011, age 43, of Grand Island, NY. Beloved son of Richard E. and the late Donna J. (nee Fijas) Dobson Sr.; loving life partner of Bridgett M. Hastings; cherished father of Kevin Patrick Jr., Jamie Kathleen, Brooke Lauren Dobson and step-son Andrew Hastings; caring brother of Richard E. (Melissa) Dobson Jr.; also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins and dear friends. The family will be present on Wednesday and Thursday, March 31 from 4-8 PM at the (Amherst Chapel), AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME INC., 5200 Sheridan Drive, (corner of Hopkins Road). Funeral Services will be held on Friday, April 1 from the Eastern Hills Wesleyan Church, 8445 Greiner Road, Williamsville at 11 AM. Friends invited. Please assemble at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the New York State Troopers PBA, Signal 30 Fund, 120 State Street, Albany, NY 12207. Share your condolences at www.AMIGONE.com.
Betty A. (nee Watters) Martin,
March 26, 2011. Beloved wife of Howard L. Martin for 63 years and the late William B. Stewart; devoted mother of James E. (Mary Ellen) Stewart, Kathleen A. (William) Gray, Howard R. (Charlene) Martin, Virgil S. (Linda) Martin and Gloria A. (George) Bloom; loving grandmother of 13 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren; dear sister of the late Jane Kuhnel and Mary Watters; also survived by nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends at the C. MERTZ AND SON FUNERAL HOME, INC., 911 Englewood Ave., for memorial visitations Tuesday, March 29 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM. All are invited to attend a Memorial Mass at St. John the Baptist Church (Englewood Ave.) Wednesday, March 30 at 9:30 AM. Memorials in her memory to Hospice Foundation, Inc. of WNY.
Adam P. Hans,
March 26, 2011, of Grand Island; loving husband of 59 years of Virginia Hans; devoted father of Richard (Susan) Hans, Diane (Charles) Beam, Karen (Peter) Ernst and James Hans; proud grandfather of Michael, Kimberly, Anthony, Nicholas, Christopher and Sarah; great-grandfather of Alexis, Madeline, Isabella and Emma; brother of Evelyn (late Joseph) May. Friends may call Monday, March 28 from 2-7 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday, March 29 at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church.
Stuart Z. Becker,
March 25, 2011, husband of Agnes Stine Becker; father of Michelle (Etay) Eitan of Israel and Lisa (Jay) Wallens; brother of Lynda (John) Cerami; grandfather of Shia, Maysh, Baruch Dovid and Rochel Eitan, Nathan and Rayna Wallens; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Stuart was a longtime member of the Buffalo Launch Club and the Amigos of Buffalo. Funeral Services will be held Sunday, March 27 at 11 AM at MESNEKOFF FUNERAL HOME, 8630 Transit Rd., East Amherst, (639-8890). In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo Inc. A period of mourning will be observed at the family's residence on Grand Island Sunday-Thursday evening. For on-line tributes, visit www.mesnekoff.com.
Thomas P. Collins, 19, of Grand Island, unexpectedly March 24, 2011. Beloved son of Darlene L. (nee Socko) (Donald) Hoover of Grand Island and Thomas R. Collins III of Niagara Falls, beloved brother of Delene (Robert) Kendrick of Great Falls, MT and Renee Collins (David) of Brockport, step-brother of Benjamin R. Hoover and Justin D. Hoover, Grandson of James and SueAnn Socko of Grand Island, Thomas R. (Betta) Collins, Jr. of Arizona, and Ralph D. Hoover of Grand Island, Uncle to Cassidy Kendrick, also survived by several Aunts, Uncles, Cousins and Friends. Predeceased by Grandmothers Joan Collins and Jean Hoover and Uncle James Socko. Tommy was an amazing bass guitarist, writer and poet. The family will be present to receive friends on Sunday, March 27, 2011 at the Kaiser Funeral Home 1950 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island from 2:00–5:00 p.m., where services will immediately follow at 5:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in Tommy’s name online at musicisart.org or sent to Music is Art, 121 Humboldt Pkwy., Buffalo, NY 14214.
William J. Morrisey Sr., March 2, 2011. Husband of the late Patricia (Boyle); father of William (Kathy) Jr., Michael P., Kevin B., Timothy J., and Maureen (Timothy) Kenney; survived by five grandchildren; brother of Mary (late Dennis) Brinkworth and John Morrissey; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Fridaym March 4 from 4-8 PM at the JOHN E. ROBERTS FUNERAL HOME, (West Chapel), 1357 Hertel Ave., near Colvin, Buffalo. A funeral service was held Saturday, March 5 at 10:00 AM.
Karl P. Offermann, the son of former Erie County Sheriff and Buffalo Bison Baseball owner Frank J. Offermann and Isabel M. Offermann, died in Lakeland, FL on December 20, 2010, following a long battle with Parkinson's disease. He would have turned 80 on St. Patrick's Day. Born in Buffalo, Mr. Offermann graduated from St. Joseph's Collegiate Institute and began his printing career in his family's business, F.J. Offermann Art Works on Broadway. He began his own company, Offermann Press, in the 1960's before moving in 1972 to Lakeland, where he founded Artcraft Printers. His wife of 42 years, the former Elizabeth (Betty) Ekiss, died in 1991. He was also preceded in death by son Karl Jr. and a daughter, Gretchen de Stafano. He is survived by sons, Michael of Sarasota, Kevin (Kelly) of Lakeland, Mark (Robin) of Texas and Erich (Margie) of Lakeland; daughters, Diane Krueger of Oklahoma, Lisa Latham of Lakeland, Kristen (Steve) Schaller of Colorado and Katrin (Willie) Lunsford of Arkansas; sister Jeanne Lawless of Big Flats, NY; brothers Frank Jr. and Paul, both of Buffalo. 26 grand and 25 great-grandchildren also survive.
David John "Peepa" Wozniak,
March 13, 2011, of Grand Island, formerly of Lewiston, loving husband of 43 years to Mary Carol (nee Knapp) Wozniak; devoted father of David Jr. (Renee) of Omaha, NE, Jonathan (Lisa), Jennifer, Michelle and the late Christopher; cherished grandfather of Cody, Bobby and Nicole; also beloved grandfather or "Peepa" to Jonathan and Joshua Wozniak; great-grandfather of Marissa and Mekhi; dear brother of Irene Hummel and Donna Robinson; also survived by many in-laws, nieces and nephews. Served in the Army National Guard from 1969-1973. Played drums in the Kenmore-Tonawanda Symphony Orchestra and sung in the Chopin Singing Society. Former employee of Dresser-Rand Corporation, Ernst Steel of Cheektowaga, Burns Copy Products of Buffalo and M&T Bank. Family will be present Thursday, March 17 from 6-8 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral Service 10 AM Friday, March 18 at Whitehaven Road Baptist Church, Grand Island. Interment in Maple Grove Cemetery.
Michael T. Safee ,
of Ransomville, NY formerly of Grand Island, NN; March 11, 2011; age 50 in Roswell Park Cancer Institute in Buffalo, after an extended illness; husband of Mary Beth (Volpe) Safee; father of Taylor, Anthony J., Kimberly Safee and Terra Launcher; step-father of Andrew and Andrea Hailey; brother of Maria Lewis, Edward Safee and the late John Safee; uncle of James Lewis, Michael and Jacob Safee and Shelby Safee; son of the late Edward J. and Martha (Macris) Safee. Michael was employed by Northeast Battery in Buffalo and was affectionately known by many as Battery Mike. Friends may call at the HARDISON FUNERAL HOMES INC., 3648 Ransomville Rd., Ransomville Monday, March 14 from 4-8 PM. Memorial service will be held Tuesday morning, March 15 at 11:00 AM from the Ransomville Free Methodist Church, 3924 Ransomville Rd., Ransomville. Please visit www.hardisonfuneralhomes.inc for online registry.
Michael was born September 26, 1960 in Buffalo, NY, the son of the late Edward J. and Martha (Macris) Safee. He was raised on Grand Island and was a graduate of Grand Island High School. A Veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, Michael served from 1983 to his honorable discharge in 1985. For most of his life Michael worked in sales. He was employed for a time by Northeast Battery in Buffalo.
Michael was a member of the Ransomville Free Methodist Church. He was an avid motorcyclist and was affectionately known by many as 'Battery Mike". Michael loved animals, especially his dog Emily. On December 25, 2010 he married Mary Beth (Volpe) Safee.
Bobby Floyd Dannels ,
March 7, 2011, of Grand Island, husband of the late Joyce Dannels; father of Bruce (Carla) Dannels, Betsy (Clyde) Payn and Lisa (Albert) Osborn; also survived by his
cherished grandchildren, Chris, Jason, Kelsey, Tamara Deyle (Eric), Brittany McGinley (Conor), Erik, James and Colin; and his dear companion Carolyn Rice; brother of Margaret Wilson, Joann Carbone and Andrew Dannels. Family and friends are invited to visit Sunday, March 20, 3-6 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950
Whitehaven Road, Grand Island. Funeral Services will be held Monday, March 21 at 10:30 AM at St. Timothy Lutheran Church, 1453 Staley Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, donations in Bobby's name may be sent to Lewy Body Dementia Assoc. Inc. Online donation: www lbda.org or Doylestown Hospital Hospice, 595 State St.,
Doylestown, PA 18901.
Nancy M. Sandford, March 12, 2011; of Grand Island, NY; daughter of the late Vernon and Marcella Sandford; sister of the late Theodore and John (survived by wife Eleanor) Sandford; aunt of James, Kenneth (Kari) and Andrew (Kimberly) Sandford and the late Catherine (survived by husband
Harold) Kopp; also survived by great-nieces, great-nephews, many loving friends and her beloved dog Teddy. Friends may call Saturday, March 19 from 3-6 PM followed by
memorial services Saturday at 6:00 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, NY. Memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.
Richard C. Owens, 90, of Troy, MI, formerly a long time Grand Island resident, passed away March 5, 2011. He married the late Carlotta Tompkins in 1942. He served in the Army Air Corps during WWII. Dick and Carlotta moved to Huth Road in 1946. In 1952 they moved to East River Road where they raised their three children. Dick worked at Hooker Chemical/Oxy Petroleum for over 42 years. He retired in 1980 but kept active as an avid golfer and as an antique dealer. In 1986 they moved to Dublin, VA, then in 2007 Dick moved to Troy, MI. Survived by children: Richard T. Owens (late Dinah) of Langhorne Manor, PA; Ruth Owens Lougen (Martin) of Troy, MI; and J. Marcus Owens (Cindy) of Radford, VA. Grandchildren: Martin T. Lougen Jr. MD (Jennifer Leino MD); Greg M. Lougen (Dale Nicole); Damon M. Owens (Stacey); and Emily E. Owens. Great grandchildren: Martin T. R. Lougen; Anastasia Lougen; Jackson Lougen; Gabrielle Lougen and Lola Lougen.
There will be a family memorial service at a later date in Radford, VA.
Rev. Reba J. Edwards,
Went home to be with the Lord, March 7, 2011, of Grand Island. Wife of 62 years of the late Robert F. Edwards; mother of Robert A. (Geri Wilson), Judy A. (William R. Weaver), Mark B. (Carla), David R. (Sandra) Edwards, Janet (Gary) Prange, Shawn P. (Angela) and the late Ralph S. Edwards; grandmother of Aaron, Matthew, Charity, Lucas, Hannah, Rachel, Reba, Joshua and Caiden Edwards, Justin and Brett Weaver, Robert and Adam Prange; great grandmother of Mikhayla and Adriana Edwards; daughter of the late Clarence and Bessie Dillon. Friends may call Friday, March 11 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral Services will be held Saturday, March 12 at 10 AM at the Greater Niagara Falls Church Of God, 2334 Lockport Rd., Sanborn, NY.
Elisabeth Ochs,
March 5, 2011, in Dallas, TX, of Grand Island, the widow of John Ochs Sr. She was born in Belecska, Hungary on December 12, 1914, mother of Elizabeth (late Alex) Szur, John (Sandra) Ochs Jr., Henry (Elisabeth) Ochs and Anne (Horst) Pedde of Dallas, Texas, also survived by seven grandchildren, two great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews in Germany, Mrs. Ochs was a long time member of Whitehaven Road Baptist Church. Friends may call Friday, March 11 from 6-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island where funeral services will be held Saturday at 1 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo or Whitehaven Road Baptist Church.
Mary M. (Daigler) Henshaw,
March 5, 2011, of Grand Island, wife of the late John B. Henshaw; mother of Jacquelyn M. (Michael) Hogan of Clarence and John E. Henshaw of Grand Island; grandmother of Susan (Peter) Morrissey, Lynda (Matthew) Carver and Kelly M. Hogan; great-grandmother of Ryan, Connor and Erin Morrissey, Mary Claire, Matthew and Meghan Carver; sister of Cecilia (late William) Poulsen, Eleanor (late John) Fermoil and the late Vincent Daigler; daughter of the late Edward and Elizabeth Daigler. Friends may call Tuesday, March 8 from 7-9 PM and Wednesday, March 9 from 4-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday, March 10 at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Memorials may be made to St. Christopher's Outreach, 2616 Niagara Falls Blvd., Tonawanda, NY 14150.
Kandace L. (nee Kramer) Carter, March 5, 2011, beloved wife of Harry
N. Carter; dearest sister of Karyn L.(Joseph) Porempski; loving aunt of Tracy (Glenn) Breymeier, Holly (David)
Smyczynski and Adam Carter; dear great-aunt of Rebecca, Jared and Jenna; loving daughter-in-law of Lillian
Carter; sister-in-law of Ben (Nancy) Carter. Friends may call Tuesday, March 8 from 7-9 PM and Wednesday, March 9 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at
the DENGLER, ROBERTS, PERNA FUNERAL HOME, 3000 Delaware Ave., Kenmore where Funeral Services will be held Thursday, March 10 at 10 AM.
Kandace was a member of Kensington American Legion Auxiliary Unit #708 under whose auspices a service will be held
Wednesday at 7 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorials to The Alzheimer’s Association of WNY.
Mary K. (nee Scott) Downs,
February 26, 2011, at age 91, beloved wife of the late George W. Downs; devoted mother of Kathleen (Richard) Dulniak, Linda Downs and George H. Downs; loving grandmother of Danielle (Patrick) Foster and Claudia Downs; great-grandmother of Maggie, Emma, Lauren and Olivia Foster; dear sister of Benjamin (Doris) Scott; aunt of Donald (Marcia) and Douglas (Grace) Scott. The family will be present on Wednesday, March 2 from 4:00-8:00 PM at the (Amherst Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 5200 Sheridan Drive (corner of Hopkins Rd.). A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, March 3 at 10:00 AM from Kenmore Baptist Church, 10 Wardman Rd., Kenmore, NY. Friends invited. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Kenmore Baptist Church or Hospice-Buffalo, Inc. Share condolences at www.AMIGONE.com
Imelda M. "Melly" (Holler) McDonnell, February 26, 2011, of Grand Island; wife of the late Robert C. McDonnell; mother of Christine Stedman, Robert, Patricia (Russell) Colosi, Michael (Kim), Terrence (Sharon), Maureen (Bob) Utz, James (Paula) and Mary McDonnell; also survived by 27 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews and cousins; sister of Sr. Mary Wilma Holler, Blake (late Lillian) Holler, Betty (late Ben) Ford, Doris (late Clark) Murray, Virginia (Albert) Wullen, Kenneth (Judith) Holler and the late Jack (survived by wife Lucille), Eugene (survived by wife Barbara) and Richard (survived by wife Marilyn) Holler; daughter of the late Wilbert and Bertha Holler. Friends may call Monday, February 28 from 4-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday, March 1 at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.
William R. Morrish,
February 21, 2011, of Grand Island. Husband of Ruth Morrish; father of Craig (Jill) Morrish and Nancy (Mark) Miller; grandfather of Benjamin, Owen, Lauren, Ryan and Addison; brother of Nancy (Richard) Sanders and Dorothy (Ralph) Tetro; also survived by nieces and nephews. Friends may call Thursday, February 24 from 4-8 PM at KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral services will be held Friday, February 25 at 9:30 AM at Forest Lawn Cemetery, 1411 Delaware Ave, Buffalo.
Richard E. Hinkle,
February 21, 2011, of Grand Island, husband of Mary G. (DeMarco) Hinkle; father of Richard E. Jr. (Jenny) and Mark J. (Mary E.) Hinkle; stepfather of Robert M. Bennett; grandfather of First Sergeant Richard E. (Chariz) Hinkle, Jennifer (Jeremy) Mixon, Joseph (Dana) Hinkle, Stephen (Jayme) Hinkle, Jason and Ashley Bleistein; also survived by eight great-grandchildren and several nieces, nephews and cousins; former husband of Lucy Hinkle; son of the late Roscoe and Mabel Hinkle; brother of the late Gertrude Eardley. Friends may call Wednesday, February 23 from 4-7 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo or Amherst Community Church, 77 Washington Highway, Amherst, where memorial services will be held Friday at 11 AM.
Donald W. (Digital Don) Wilkinson, February 14, 2011 of Grand Island, N.Y. Beloved Husband of Joan (Peters), Dear Father of Timothy (Isabel), Jennifer (John) Chin, and Rachel Wilkinson. Grandfather of Emma and Matthew Chin, Jenna Wilkinson. Brother of David E. (Texas), and the late Peter Wilkinson. Son of the late Dr. Howard and Emma Wilkinson. Don was a member of the Audio Engineer Society; Antique & Classic Boat Society and an active member of Tea Party. He attained His Coast Guard Captain rating in 2010. Donald was an anatmical donor to SUNY Buffalo. A Memorial Service will be held at The Buffalo Launch Club, Saturday, March 26, 2011 at 10:30 AM.
Edward A. "Eddie" Radecki,
February 19, 2011, of Grand Island, Edward leaves behind his loving wife of 54 years Madonna (Mescall); his daughters who will sorely miss him, Michelle (David) Fix, Kathleen (Paul) Ammermuller and Mary Radecki; his grandchildren Heather and Michael Ammermuller, Caitlin Radecki and Andrew Fix. He leaves behind his last living sibling Stephania (late Stephen) Kiebzak and late siblings Andrew, Stanley (late Helen) and Mildred Radecki, Eugenia (late Donald) Sutz and Josephine (late Chuck) Hull; son of the late Albert and Mary (Guzik) Radecki. Friends may call Monday, February 21 and Tuesday, February 21 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, where funeral services will be held Wednesday, February 23 at 10 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Parkinson's Association of WNY or PAWNY. See http://www.buffalonews.com/city/communities/grand-island/article348321.ece
Thomas E. Hirsche,
of Grand Island, formerly of Bavaria-Thierstein, Germany, entered into rest suddenly, January 19, 2011. Beloved son of Willi and Brunhilde (nee Gebelein) Hirsche; devoted brother of Willi (Manuela) Theeg, Florian and Karin, all of Germany; fond uncle of Anna Lena; special friend and companion to Ann J. Enger; also survived by relatives and many friends. No prior visitation. Private service. Thomas came to America from Bavaria as a teenager and had a great appreciation for nature, language, computers, dogs, boating, keeping an aquarium, planting fruit trees, and his homeland of Germany. Arrangements by the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northtowns Chapel). Online condolences may be made at www.lombardofuneralhome.com
Dolores C. Albertsson,
February 17, 2011, of Grand Island; wife of 42 years of the late Jon G. Albertsson who passed away in April 1998; mother of Candice K., Karolina and Jon G. (Laurie) Albertsson Jr.; grandmother of Amanda N. Albertsson, Christopher and Kristy Pace; great grandmother of Alteriadawn Pace; daughter of the late Moritz and Berta Allgaier. Friends may call Monday, February 21 from 4-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday, February 22 at 10 AM at Stephen's Church (old church). Mrs. Albertsson was raised in Cheektowaga by German immigrant parents. She spent summer months on Grand View Bay in Angola and graduated from Amherst Central High School. She worked closely with her father in the family commercial construction company that built many schools, churches and commercial properties in WNY. She met belated husband Jon, an Icelandic national, by chance on Memorial Day weekend in 1954. They married in July 1955 and moved to East Lansing, MI while her husband complete his Mechanical Engineering degree at Michigan State University. They moved to Akureyri, Iceland in 1957 and returned to the States in October 1962 and settled on Grand Island to raise three children. Dolores was active in PTA and Girl Scouts and enrolled in many art classes. She was an avid golfer and a member of the Niagara Falls Country Club for 28 years. She loved international travel and spoke three languages.
Jane E. (Mollnow) Cook,
81, passed away Thursday morning, February 17 in the comfort of her home after a brief illness. She is survived by her loving husband of 65 years Edmund F. Cook of Sanborn; loving mother of Wade (Michelle) Cook of Lewiston, Randy (late Brenda) Cook of Grand Island, Mark Cook (Shirley Lewis) of North Carolina, late Paul Cook and Bonnie (Jim) Pluff of Sanborn; grandmother of six; great-grandmother of ten. A memorial service will be arranged at a future date at the convenience of the family. Memorials in her name may be made to Niagara Hospice or the March of Dimes.
Rosalyn "Roz" Butler,
of Grand Island, Wednesday February 16, 2011. Wife of the late Henry J. Butler; mother of Patrick Butler (Patricia) of Williamsville; sister of Roland, Harley and Colyn Webber and Neila Smith and the late Jocyline Woodcock; grandmother of Christian Butler (Nicole) of Tonawanda; step grandmother of Rebecca Ferenz (Donny) of Connecticut; Carolyn Pokorski of Cheektowaga; great-grandchildren, Isabelle Butler and Eden Schwanke; aunt of Lisa Smith, Niagara Falls; also survived by several nieces and nephews. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Saturday 10 AM in St. John de LaSalle RC Church, 8469 Buffalo Ave, Niagara Falls. Memorials may be made to Buffalo Hospice, St. John de LaSalle Church or St. Stephen's Fund. The LANE FUNERAL HOME, INC., is handling the funeral arrangements.
Ruth F. Noble,
February 15, 2011, 99, of Grand Island, formerly of North Tonawanda, after a long illness, wife of the late Robert J. Noble Sr.; mother of Robert (Linda) Noble Jr., Albert (Judy) Noble and Candy (late Eugene Jr.) Konczakowski; sister of Betty (Henry) Wheeler and the late Kathryn Grile; also survived by eight grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews. No visitation. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated today, Thursday. February 17 at 1 PM at St. Francis Chapel, 71 Adam St., Tonawanda. Friends invited. If desired, memorials to Riverwood Health Care Facility are preferred. Complete obituary and condolences may be found at www.hampfuneral.com.
Yvonne (Ashley) Martin, resident of Grand Island, born in Norwich,Vermont, passed away peacefully in her daughter’s Grand Island home under the care of Hospice on January 25, 2011. Earned her degree at Buffalo State Teachers College and her Masters degree at Columbia University. During her Professional Career she taught as a Home Economics Teacher at Grand Island, Long Island, Lewiston and in the Adirondacks. She continued in the teaching field as a substitute teacher and was active at Emmanuel Methodist Church and Grand Island Golden Age Center. Yvonne was the daughter of the late Colonel Heber Ashley, Sr. and Beatrice (Lapiere), sister of the late Heber Ashley, Jr. and Emery Ashley. Wife of the late Chester J. Martin. Yvonne is survived by three daughters, Beatrice (Nealis), Ellen (Staniszewski) and Phyllis (Didion), as well as grand, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. In the spirit of the Educator that Yvonne was, she donated her body to the University of Buffalo Medical School, as she continues to teach. Yvonne will be intern at Arlington National Cemetery.
Elizabeth (Ashley) Fancher passed away on February 13, 2011 in Columbia, MO. She was a long time Island resident who attended the Island schools and graduated from LaSalle Sr. High in Niagara Falls. She also attended Orange Coast Community College in California. The wife of Richard M. (Dick) Fancher, she is the mother of Mick and Jerre (Theresa) Fancher of Grand Island, Joshua and Megan Fancher of Columbia, MO and is also survived by her mother, Betty Ashley, three brothers, two sisters and many nieces and nephews. Donations may be made to the local Hospice or the Cancer Society.
Sandra A. (nee Biondolillo) Kujawa of Grand Island, February 11, 2011, wife of Eugene K. Kujawa; dear mother of Andrew (Rachelle) and Robert J. Kujawa; loving grandmother of Tyler James Kujawa; daughter of Josephine Coniglio Biondolillo and the late Russell Biondolillo, Sr.; sister of Russell (Janet) Biondolillo and Mary (George) Topczij; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends will be received at Polish Falcons of America Nest #6, 3171 Broadway near Union Rd., Cheektowaga, Friday, February 18 from 5-9 PM. All are invited to a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Stephen's R.C. Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, Saturday, February 19 at 10 AM. Memorials to Hospice Foundation of WNY, 225 Como Park Blvd., Buffalo 14240 are preferred. Arrangements by D. LAWRENCE GINNANE FUNERAL HOME. www.ginnanefuneralhome.com
Edward Richard L. Rebmann Sr., of Grand Island, NY, February 12, 2011, beloved husband of the late Alice C. (Beiger) Rebmann; dearest father of Joy A. (Gregory) Handgis, Richard L. Jr. (Wendy), Stephen J. (Kim) Rebmann, Pamela A. (Robert) Shoemaker and Barbara L. (Michael) McAlister; grandfather of Jennifer, Robert, Katherine, Jeffrey, Kirsten, Christopher, Christin and Michael; son of the late Louis and Maybell (Smith) Rebmann; predeceased by two sisters; also survived by nieces and nephews. No prior visitation. Family and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service at Forest Lawn Cemetery Chapel, 1411 Delaware Ave., Buffalo, Wednesday morning, February 16 at 10. (Please assemble at chapel). Memorials to Hospice Buffalo, Inc. Arrangements by ERIE COUNTY CREMATION SERVICE, 824-6435
Edward R. "Bob" Hardison,
passed away suddenly on February 4, 2011 at his home in Niagara Falls, Ontario. Formerly of Grand Island, NY. Beloved partner of the late Bruce W. Essex; cherished son of Edna and the late Edward W. Hardison; loving brother of Katherine (Dennis) Jedd, Patricia (Butch) Carrick, Joan (Doug) Gregory and Michael (Patty) Hardison; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Mr. Hardison retired as Project Engineer for Niagara Blower in 1994 after 30 years and also served in the US Army Security Agency. Friends and relatives will gather to celebrate Bob's life at the PATTERSON FUNERAL HOME, 6062 Main St, Niagara Falls, Ontario visiting Saturday, February 12 from 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM. A Funeral Service in celebration of his life will follow visitation at 12:30 PM. Interment will follow at Lundy's Lane Cemetery. In memory of Mr. Hardison donations to Tender Wishes, Niagara Falls, Ontario would be appreciated by his family. On-line condolences at www.pattersonfuneralhome.com.
Daniel J. "Muscles" Moran,February 8, 2011, of Grand Island. Husband of Carol Moran; father of Jacqueline (Christopher) McBride, Jay (Rachele), Joel (Kati), Jonathan, Janine Moran and Jessica (John) Balling; grandfather of Allison, Sydney, Lexia, Quinn, Mia, Bridget, Brady, Avarey, Caden and Maxwell; brother of Diane, Dennis and Ronald (Nancy) Moran; son of the late Ralph and Doris Moran. Friends may call Friday, February 11 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, February 12 at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. in lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the National Kidney Foundation .
Edwin M. Webb, 72, a retired U.S. Air Force Tech sergeant, died Friday, February 4, 2011, at Brooks Memorial Hospital in Dunkirk, N.Y.
He was born July 31, 1938, in Buffalo, N.Y., the son of the late Edwin and Virginia (Staley) Webb.
He served a 20-year career in the United States Air Force during the Korean Conflict having attained the rank of tech sergeant, enlisting on August 8, 1956, and was discharged on October 31, 1976, and was stationed in South Carolina, Florida, Okinawa, Germany, California, Thailand, Alaska and Virginia.
He was a member of the Villenova Grange, the Randolph American Legion, VFW of Grand Island and a lifetime member of the Silver Creek AMVETS. Edwin will be remembered for his love of cooking, tractors and life in Alaska.
He is survived by his wife Diane Emke-Webb of South Dayton, N.Y., whom he married on February 9, 2003, in Hamlet, a brother, John Webb of Warsaw, and 11 stepchildren: Dennis (Lorrie) Emke of Cherry Creek, Dwayne (Kathy) Emke of Forestville, Daryl (Lisa) Emke of South Dayton, Debra (Richard) Walker of Cherry Creek, David Emke of South Dayton, Doris (James) Treusch of South Dayton, Robert (Bonnie) Stewart of Cherry Creek, Joyce (Ron) Towers of Kennedy, Marti Sue (Mike) Telford of Kennedy, Perry Whipple of Jamestown, Allison (Steve) Schrader of Logan, Ohio, 40 stepgrandchildren and 25 stepgreatgrandchildren.
Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his stepparents, Bob and Margaret Emke, his second wife, Marie Webb, two sisters: Eileen Proctor and Beverly Wetzel, and his stepson Andrew Stewart.
Visitation will be held at Hills Funeral Chapel 478 Balcom Corners, South Dayton, N.Y., on Monday, February 7, 2011, from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday, February 8, 2011, at 1 p.m. from the funeral chapel. The Rev. Bethany Ruane of Hamlet United Methodist Church will be officiating. Burial will be in the Randolph Cemetery in Randolph, N.Y.
Family suggests memorials to South Dayton Fire Department, Box 88, South Dayton, NY 14138.
Harold F. Mills Jr.,
55, of Grand Island, NY, unexpectedly January 31, 2011. Harold was employed by M&T Bank. He was the husband of the late Kathy Mills; beloved son of Shirley Piersons of Savona, NY and the late Harold F. Mills; brother of Pam (George) Nichols of Savona, NY and Karen (Dennis) Smith of Campbell, NY; stepson of Elonda Mills and stepbrother of Jeff Mills; he is also survived by nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. Friends may call at the Savona Federated Church, 20 Church St. in Savona, NY on Tuesday from 1 PM-3 PM. A funeral service will begin at 3 P.M. Online register available at frettholdfuneralhome.com.
Carol K. Harris, formerly of Grand Island, February 2, 2011. She was predeceased by her husband Donald F. Harris Sr. in 2009 and a brother Myron King. She's survived by a son Donald F. (Marcia) Harris Jr. and two daughters Kathy Sennott and Janice (Jerold) Hoffman and six grandchildren, Michelle, Carol, Jamie Lynn (Robert), Jeremy (Elena), Stephen (Sasha and Jennifer (Eddy) and 10 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.. A memorial services will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to Homecare and Hospice in Little Valley, NY. Arrangements are under the direction of MENTLEY FUNERAL HOME INC., 411 Rock City St. in Little Valley.
Jane E. (Glover) Cutting,
January 29, 2011, of Grand Island, beloved wife of the late Michael M. Cutting; beloved mother of Robert J. (Karen) of North Tonawanda, James M. (Barbara) of Stratham, NH and John W. (Candace) Cutting of Grand Island; beloved grandmother of Spencer, Jordan, Alley and Caleb Cutting, Chris and Conor Carrier; daughter of the late William and Louise Glover. Friends may call Tuesday, February 1 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, February 2 at 10 AM at St. Martin-In-The-Fields Episcopal Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials many be made to the Hospice Buffalo. Mrs. Cutting was a gourmet cook and an exceptional homemaker.
Franklin A. "Bob" Mesmer, 88, loving husband and father, January 21, 2011, in Myrtle Beach, SC, where he and his wife, Jean, of 21 years, resided for the last 20 years. Bob was a successful businessman and long-time resident of Grand Island. He was predeceased by Dorothy E. (Phillips) Mesmer to whom he was married for 39 years. They had four children Robert (Joy), William (Eileen), Terry (Cindy) Mesmer and Debbie (Ken) Huttmaier. Stepfather of Leonard (Brenda), Debbie (Jim), Charlene, Dean, Karen, and Don; also survived by many nieces, nephews and grandchildren. Memorial Services will be held at St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church, 2587 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, on Saturday, January 29 at 11 AM, with a luncheon to follow in the church social room. Friends and relatives are invited.
George B. Walk,
Buffalo News - buffalonews.com
Feb. 19, 1940-Jan. 21, 2011
Updated: January 24, 2011, 6:29 AM
George B. Walk, Winter Olympics ad designer
George Bruce Walk, a graphics designer whose work included an advertising package for the 1980 Lake Placid Winter Olympics, died Friday at his Grand Island home. He was 70. A native of Phillipsburg., Pa., he moved to Buffalo in 1942, graduating from Hutchinson- Central Technical High School and the University of Buffalo. He and his wife, Betty Burnett, later moved to New York City, where he joined the advertising firm of Sudler and Hennessey, working his way up to become its creative director. He left the firm in 1975 to create his own firm, Bruce Walk Design, and developed a list of high-profile clients and advertising packages that included the 1980 Lake Placid Olympic Games, the Colgate-Palmolive Tennis Tournament, the Volvo Classic Tennis Tournament and the Equitable Life Insurance Amateur Tennis and Ski tournaments. He later modernized his image and changed the name of his firm to Q and A Solutions to develop programs for computer graphics and animations. He and his wife returned to the area in 2009 in retirement and moved to Grand Island. He was a passionate mountain biker, and when one of his daughters was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, he formed a team, "The Walk Riders," to raise money for MS research. Mr. Walk sang with The Voices of Buffalo and many church and community choirs. As a member of the Community Church of Smoke Rise, Kinnelon, N. J., he sang at Notre Dame in Paris and in Bethlehem, Israel, on Christmas Eve. More recently, he sang with the Grand Island Community Chorus. In addition to his wife, he is survived by two daughters, Louise Ellen and Jennifer Anne; a son, Bruce Burnett; two sisters, Jeannette Pease and Louise Carlson; and a brother, Paul. A funeral service will be private.
Lawrence H. Gill,
of Grand Island, January 24, 2011. Husband of Barbara A. Gill; father of Andrew, Christopher and Daniel (Colleen) Gill; step father of Robert (Kim) Willer and Jean (Eric) Pecoraro; grandfather of Andrew, Evan, Nigel, Ryan, Brooke, Maya and Cameron. Friends may call Thursday, January 27 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, where funeral services will be held Friday, January 28 at 10 AM. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.
Carol (nee Wilson) Keenan,
suddenly at St. Catharines General Hospital on Saturday, January 22 after a long illness. She was 63. Carol lived in Grand Island, NY for 13 years. She leaves a son, Brett Wood, his wife Teri and two grandchildren Maci and Tucker in Stevensville, step-sons Matthew and Greg Keenan and a sister, Lynda Wilson in St. Catharines. The family wishes to thank all who supported her: Fred and Jean Waterer, Neil and Bob Savoy, Bob Chassie, Lisa Bryant, James Dyck, Kevin Vincent, Pat Creighton, Dorothy Burton, Kathy and Maria. We also wish to thank the wonderful nurses in Emergency at the hospital. There will be no service. Any donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society. Carol will be forever in the hearts of her family and friends.
Richard W. Meyer,
January 18, 2011. Beloved husband of Helen A. Meyer (nee Skraly); loving father of Margaret (Thomas Kelly) and Norman (Lori); dear grandfather of Spencer and Griffin; brother of Mike (Dodie) Meyer; also survived by six nieces and a nephew. Richard was born in Niagara Falls on July 21, 1929. He lived on Grand Island and in Tonawanda and most recently, Huntington Beach, CA. Memorial Services will be held January 28 at SS. Simon and Jude Catholic Church in Huntington Beach.
Robert Leif Jensen,
born on May 14, 1931, Staten Island, NY Bob Jensen, an incredible and loving husband, father, brother, and friend to all, passed away Saturday morning, January 15, 2011, following a motorcycle accident in San Diego. Bob is survived by his beloved wife Fran, a Realtor with Keller-Williams Realty North County, and his daughters, Cindy Jensen and Karen Lindstrom, both of San Diego. Bob is also survived by his sisters, Dorothy Myhre-Donahue, Staten Island, NY, and Mary Jane Muller, Orlando, FL. Always a kind and generous man, Bob was an organ donor; he will be cremated. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, January 29, 2011, at 11:00 a.m. at Faith Lutheran Church, 700 E. Bobier Drive, Vista, CA 92084. Reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that any donations be made to: SCRIPPS CENTER FOR INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE, c/o Dr. Mimi Guarneri, 10820 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037. Please visit: www.forevermissed.com/bobjensen/#about
Connie Ford Gibbons,
a talented designer and loving wife and mother, died peacefully on January 18, 2011, after a courageous battle with lymphoma. Connie grew up on Grand Island and graduated from Grand Island High School in 1979. Connie lived her dream and was a successful floral and interior designer in Southern California. She will always be remembered for her generous, loving spirit, her enormous design talents, her great sense of humor, and her deep and abiding love for Patrick and Christopher. Connie is survived by her loving husband, Patrick; her son, Christopher; her parents, Dan and Nancy; brother Gary; sister Carole; as well as a niece, nephew, grand-niece and grand-nephew and untold devoted friends. A memorial service will be held at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 4800 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine, California, on Saturday, January 29, 2011 at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers, Connie would prefer that donations be made to a fund for the benefit of her "beautiful blue eyed boy," 5-yearold Christopher. That fund has been set up in the name of Christopher R. Gibbons at Wells Fargo Bank. For further information regarding donations, please contact Betsy at ejginla@aol.com
Patricia (nee Murphy) Less,
January 20, 2011, of Grand Island, age 71, born March 17, 1939 in Tonawanda, wife of Donald J. Less; mother of Debra (Kenneth) Brodie and Joseph (Sandra) Less; also survived by five grandchildren; sister of Mary Ellen (late Richard) Kinzly, Eugene (Marge) Murphy and the late Linda (survived by husband William) Bruns; daughter of the late Joseph and Mary (Dryer) Murphy. Friends may call Sunday, January 23 from 3-7 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd, Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, January 24 at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. A reception will follow the cemetery at the Buffalo Launch Club. Memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo. Mrs. Less received a Masters in education form Lemoyne College and was a member of Grand Island Ladies Club, River Oaks and Beaver Island Golf Clubs; "May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face. May the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again, May the Lord hold you in the palm of His hand."
George E. Bowman III,
of Grand Island, Age 74 died Monday, January 17, 2011. Beloved husband of 57 years to Patricia(Grieco)Bowman, devoted father of Linda Bowman; Kim Bowman; Audene (Chris) Affuso; and Brad Bowman all of Grand Island. Loving grandfather of Stephanie Affuso; Melissa (Joshua) Strange; Kaitlyn Affuso; and Liza Bowman. Loving son of the late George E. Jr. and Veronica (Dwyer) Bowman. Brother of Thomas (Elizabeth Rodak) Bowman, of Florida; James (Eloise Cantara) Bowman of South Carolina; and John Bowman of Tonawanda. Also survived by several relatives and friends. Private memorial service will be held for the family. Donations may be made to the American Lung Association or the Grand Island Volunteer Fire Company.
Eva M. (nee Altmeyer) Ognibene, of Bradenton, FL., formerly of Buffalo, entered into rest, January 16, 2011. Beloved wife of the late Angelo B. Ognibene for 51 years. Devoted mother of Evangela Ognibene and the late Angelo L. Ognibene; loving daughter of the late Frank and Anna Altmeyer; dear sister of Anne Cramer; pre-deceased by nine siblings; cherished aunt of many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews and great-great-nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends may visit the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northtowns Chapel), 885 Niagara Falls Blvd. near Eggert/Sheridan Dr. on Friday, January 21 from 4-8 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Peter & Paul Church, 5480 Main St., Williamsville on Saturday morning at 9:30 o'clock (Please assemble at church). Interment Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Online condolences may be made at www.lombardofuneralhome.com
Jean L. Hoover , 80 of Grand Island passed away Wednesday, January 19, 2011 surrounded by loving family members. Jean was born and raised in Buffalo. She was the kind of woman who never met a stranger and always had kind words to say about everyone. Jean retired from the Grand Island School District after 35 years, taught at Sheridan Parkside Community Center, and was a past Deacon at Faith United Presbyterian Church. Jean and her husband, Ralph, wintered in Florida for the past 15 years. She was also a member of the Red Hat Society and volunteered for Meals on Wheels. She was committed to her family and took pride in being a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and friend. She has left a Godly legacy to her husband Ralph; children Kathleen Applegate (Harold), Donald Hoover (Darlene), Kenneth Hoover (Babette), and Nancy Anderson; grandchildren Danielle, Kate, Sarah, Tim, Ben, Shaun, Justin, Delene, Aimee, Renee, David and Tommy; great-grandchildren Morgan, Ava, Corban, Tessa, Cassidy and Teagan. Also her brothers Irving (Mary), Robert (Marlys), and her sister and best friend, Diana (Fred) along with many nieces and nephews, extended family and friends. Viewing at Kaiser Funeral Home will be held on Thursday, Jan. 20 and Friday, Jan. 21 from 4:00 to 8 p.m. Funeral services will take place on Saturday morning, January 22 at 10:30 a.m. at Faith United Presbyterian Church, 3150 Elmwood Ave., Tonawanda, NY.
Ronald C. Meyer, January 18, 2011; of Grand Island; husband of Kathleen Meyer, father of Deborah (Jeffrey) Szewczyk, Richard (Wendy) Meyer and Colleen (Todd) Endres; grandfather of Anthony and Daniel Szewczyk, Charlene, Kyle, Tyler, Caleb and Caylee Meyer; brother of Gary, Marc (Gloria) and Kevin (Kathy) Meyer. Memorial services will be held Saturday, January 22 at 1:00 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island.
Eric J. Roloff , January 16, 2011, formerly of Grand Island. Beloved son of Dawn (Randy) Willis and Mark (Rebecca) Roloff; loving brother of Brian and Jill Roloff; also survived by grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and many friends. Friends may call Wednesday, Januaary 19 from 2-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral services will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo or Roswell Park Cancer Institute.
Barbara H. (Attridge) VanTassell , January 16, 2011, of Grand Island, wife of William VanTassell; mother of Kathleen Felser, David (Lisa) and Thomas (Tracy) Arch; grandmother of Jesse and Robert Arch; stepmother of Peter VanTassell, Martha (Al) Walter and Edward (Anna) VanTassell; sister of Donald and Dean (Marjorie) Attridge, and Diane (Stephen) Deck; daughter of the late Helen Maynard. Friends may call Tuesday, January 18 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island and Wednesday, January 19 from 10-10:45 AM at the Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter Day Saints, 754 Scovell Dr., Lewiston where Funeral Services will be held Wednesday at 11 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association .
Honor (nee Hallatt) McCrone ,
January 6, 2011, age 89, of Kenmore, formerly of Grand Island, after a brief illness, wife of the late Robert McCrone; mother of Anne (Lawrence) Dombrowski and Judith (Dennis) Castiglia; sister of William (Mary Lou) Hallatt; grandmother of Kara (William) VanWie, Robert (Susan) and Brian Dombrowski, David (Stephanie) Castiglia and Julie (Joseph) DeLoreto; also survived by six great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews. Friends may call Sunday, January 9 only 2-6 PM at the HAMP FUNERAL HOME INC., 37 Adam St., at Seymour, Tonawanda. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday at 10 AM at St. Stephen RC Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. Friends invited. If desired, memorials to the American Cancer Society are preferred. Complete obituary, condolences and directions at www.hampfuneral.com.
Charles Lopresti ,
January 5, 2011, of Grand Island, husband of the late Carmella LoPresti; also survived by six children, seven brothers and sisters, many grandchildren and great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Private funeral services were held at the convenience of the family. Memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.
Isabel S. (Nicholson) Allen,
of Grand Island, entered into rest January 8, 2011 at age 88.
Beloved wife of John E. "Jack" Allen, long time Courier Express columnist, beloved mother to her children Scott Allen, Bruce (Sarah) Allen and Meg (Stan) Pietras; beloved Nana to her grandchildren Brett Pietras, Noelle Pietras and Jack Allen. Born in Niagara Falls to the late Charles and Isabelle Nicholson, she was the beloved sister of the late Jean Sanford, Donald Nicholson Sr. and Dr. Ellen Nicholson.
During WW II, Isabel worked building fighter planes and bombers for Bell Aircraft. She earned a BS in Early Children Education from UB. After marrying her husband, Jack, and moving to the Island, she became teacher/director at the Grand Island Co-operative Nursery School, where she taught for 25 years.
Isabel loved children, animals, music, sunsets on the Niagara River, and caring for others. She was a joy and a treasure to all who knew her. She died as she lived, in peace and surrounded by those she taught so well that Love is everything.
Memorial services will be held Saturday, January 15, at 11 AM at Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island; in lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Buffalo City Mission or the Erie County SPCA.
Arrangements by Kaiser Funeral Home.
Shirley A. Brick ,
January 6, 2011, of Grand Island; wife of Robert Brick, mother of Daniel (Colleen) Brick; grandmother of Rielly and Quinn Brick; sister of Samuel (Nancy) Matikosh, William Matikosh, Jackie (Walter) Diermyer, Barbara (late Robert) Snider and the late Phyllis Matikosh; daughter of the late Samuel and Leota Matikosh; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Sunday, January 9 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral services will be held Monday, January 10 at 11 AM at Whitehaven Road Baptist Church, Mrs. Brick was a former teacher for 42 years at the Ohio School in North Tonawanda, and was very active in Grand Island Little League and Grand Island Junior Football.
Daneen L. Hollfelder,
December 30, 2010, former Grand Island resident. Loving daughter of Donald M. and the late Marjorie A. (nee Weast) Hollfelder; dear sister of Donald L. (Lynne), Dennis C. (Karen) and the late Diane Williams; also survived by nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends at the C. MERTZ AND SON FUNERAL HOME, INC., 911 Englewood Ave. for Memorial Visitations Tuesday, Jan. 4 from 6-8 PM.
Robert F. Edwards,
went home to be with the Lord January 4, 2011, of Grand Island. Husband of Reba Edwards; father of Robert A. (Geri Wilson), Judy A. (William R. Weaver), Mark B. (Carla), David R. (Sandra) Edwards, Janet (Gary) Prange, Shawn P. (Angela) and the late Ralph S. Edwards; grandfather of Aaron, Matthew, Charity, Lucas, Hannah, Rachel, Reba, Joshua and Caiden Edwards, Justin and Brett Weaver, Robert and Adam Prange; great-grandfather of Mikhayla and Adriana Edwards; brother of Iowa Bowman, Henry (Pamela) Edwards and Ethel Dickey; predeceased by eight brothers and sisters. Friends may call Friday, January 7 from 2-4 & 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral services will be held Saturday, January 8 at 10 AM at the Greater Niagara Falls Church Of God, 2334 Lockport Rd., Sanborn, NY.
