Previous Death Notices
James E. Moss December 30, 2012 at age 95. Beloved husband of the late Elizabeth Szuck Moss; dear father of Sandra (Raymond) Adams, Christine (Samuel Nelson) Moss, Janice (Gary) Kapps and the late Elizabeth (Jeffrey) Inman, as well as a cherished grandfather and great-grandfather. Mr. Moss was a Navy veteran of WWII, a longtime employee of Bethlehem Steel Corp., as well as a lifelong member of the West Side Rowing Club. He was a longtime resident of Grand Island and a devoted parishioner of St. Stephen's R.C. Church. According to his wishes, Mr. Moss' remains were donated to the University of Buffalo Medical School. A memorial service will be held at St. Stephen's at a future date in the spring.
Walter J. Hastrich , May 19, 1929 - Dec. 23, 2012 Son of the late Walter G. and Bernice H. Hastrich (Koch), Walt was proceeded in death by his wife of 32 years, Mary Angela (Thornbury). Warrant Officer in NYS National Guard until 1954, Corporate Executive until retirement and long time resident of Grand Island, NY, prior to moving to Florida. Walter leaves behind three children, Carol (Strachan) Hastrich, Duane (Janet), Richard (Mary Frances), and Dea Albertson; his grandsons, Matthew, Christopher, and Duane; great-grandchildren, Aiden & Olivia & numerous nephews & nieces. Viewing Friday, Dec. 28th, 3-5 pm at, Dobies FH-7Springs Chapel, 8825 Old County Road 54, New Port Richey with services there on Saturday, Dec. 29th at 10 am. Graveside services immediately following at Grace Memorial Gardens.
William C. Sciuk , December 24, 2012, age 95, in Boca Raton, FL, formerly of Niagara Falls, NY, beloved husband of Virginia M. (Ippolito); dearest father of Elizabeth Stoklosa, David and Paula (Kenneth) Sciog; loving grandfather of Robyn Muehlbauer and three great-grandchildren; son of the late Lawrence P. and the late Julia A. (Olszowy); predeceased by siblings Joseph, Genevieve, Frank and Emily; also survived by nieces, nephews and cousins. Mr. Sciuk was a WWII veteran and Chevy Tonawanda retiree. Private memorial to be held at a later date.
Michael E. Heftka, December 19, 2012, of Grand Island; entered into rest December 19, 2012. He was a resident of Grand Island. Husband of Nancy (Orlowski) Heftka. Father of Craig (Kellie), Jaime (Miguel) Santiago, Christopher "Scooter", Nicholas, Michael, Amanda and Adam Heftka. Grandfather of Collin and Katelyn Heftka. Son of Mary and the late Eugene Heftka. Brother of Robert (Margaret) and Brooks (Michelle) Heftka. Also survived by nieces and a nephew. Friends may call Friday 1-8 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Roswell Park Cancer Institute. Mr. Heftka was the Executive Director for the Wyoming County IDA. He served as Councilman on Grand Island from 1998 - 2001. He also taught CCD at St. Stephen's Church and helped start and run KidBiz on Grand Island.
Thomas R. Dworak Jr., December 17, 2012, age 86, of Grand Island, NY, father of Thomas Dworak, Patrick (Tracy) Dworak and Richard (Phyllis) Dworak, all of Grand Island, NY, Lesha Tiedemann, Williamsville, NY; nine grandchildren; several nieces and nephews. Friends may call Thursday 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at ZAJAC FUNERAL HOME INC., 319 24th. St., corner of Welch Ave., Niagara Falls, NY. Mass of Christian Burial Friday, December 21 at 10:00 AM St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island (EVERYONE PLEASE ASSEMBLE AT CHURCH). Burial with Military Honors in Holy Trinity Cemetery, Lewiston, NY. Donations in his memory may be made to Disabled American Veterans Memorial Program, P.O. Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH 45250-0301. Visit zajacfuneralhomeinc.com for online condolences.
Lee Frank Thomas, Jan. 7, 1939 - December 15, 2012, age 73, of North Tonawanda, died peacefully December 15, 2012 in Niagara Hospice House. He was a resident of Grand Island, NY from 1941-1961 and attended Charlotte Sidway School. Parents were Mae and Charles. Lee was a U. S. Navy veteran. He was the owner and operator of Western Snacks for 50 years. He was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Aerie #1411, Amvets Post #26, the Loyal Order of Moose and the Park Athletic Club. Beloved father of Timothy Thomas of Hummelstown, PA; Randy Thomas of Clearwater, FL; and the late Linda Thomas. Grandfather of Chandler, Chelsea and and Kaylee. Brother of Jerry (Nancy) Thomas of Salisbury, CT, uncle of several nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his loving companion, Gail Burns. Friends may call at the Fretthold Funeral Home Inc., 1241 Oliver St. at Ward Rd. in North Tonawanda on Wednesday, December 19, 2012 from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home on Thursday at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memories may be made to Roswell Park Cancer Institute or Niagara Hospice. Guest register available at frettholdfuneralhome.com
Robert E. Eldredge, December 15, 2012, of Grand Island, husband of the late Ruth (Olsen) Eldredge; father of Karen (Thomas) Martin, Susan (Lenny) Ostrowski and Nancy-Jill (Joseph) Roberts; grandfather of Michael, Christian, Karrie, Chantel, Amy, Camilla and James; also survived by 11 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild; brother of James (Martha), John (Sarah) and the late Richard (late Maryann) Eldredge. Friends may call Tuesday, December 18, 2012 from 4-7 PM followed by Memorial Services, Tuesday at 7 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The American Cancer Society . Mr. Eldredge was a WW II US Army veteran.
Linda Lee (Brune) Millar, December 14, 2012; of Grand Island; mother of Nichole (Clifton) King, Jeffrey (Erin) Millar, Amy (Andrew) Snyder and Kristin Millar, grandmother of Kaitlin and Keegen King, Caroline Millar, Logan, Luke, Levi and Lorelai Snyder, sister of William (Stephanie) Brune, friend of Dale Millar; friends may call Saturday and Sunday 2-4 & 7-9 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island; funeral services will be held Monday at 10 AM at St. Timothy Lutheran Church; Â in lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society; Linda was an employee at Frontier Science Technology.
Ronald R. Norman , December 13, 2012, age 79, of Grand Island, NY and Del Ray Beach, FL, loving father of Deborah Norman-Lane, Michael Allen Norman, Lisa M. Norman and David J. Jarvis; grandfather of Michael Anthony, Airman 1st class Eric R. Norman, Trevor and Taylor Norman and Blake, Drew, Avery and Caton Jarvis; soulmate of 24 years to Lee E. Malone. The family will be present on Wednesday, Dec. 19, 2012 and Thursday, Dec. 20 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the (Amherst Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 5200 Sheridan Dr. (corner of Hopkins Road). Family and friends are invited to attend a Funeral Service, Friday, Dec. 21 at 10 AM in the Resurrection Life Fellowship, 2145 Old Union Road, Cheektowaga, NY 14227. Please assemble at church. Donations may be made to NYSBA Build PAC, 90 Sylvan Pkwy., West Amherst, NY 14228.Please share your condolences at www.AMIGONE.com
James E. Stewart, December 10, 2012, of Grand Island, NY. Husband of Mary Ellen (Klingel), father of James E. Jr. (Jacqueline), Theodore William (Cyndi) and William Bruce (Heather). Also survived by nine grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Jim was the son of the late William Bruce Stewart and Betty Ann Martin, stepson of Howard L. Martin, brother of Kathleen (William) Gray, Gloria {George} Bloom and stepbrother of Virgil (Linda) Martin and Howard R.(Charlene) Martin. He was a retiree and member of Union Local #41, I. B. E. W and served four years in the United States Navy. A memorial service will be held Saturday, December 29, 2012, at the Holiday Inn, Grand Island at noon. Donations in Jim's memory may be made to Roswell Cancer Institute, Hospice or the University of Buffalo Anatomical Gift Program.
Robert D. Beach Sr., Grand Island, New York businessman and Commercial pilot died on Sunday December 9, 2012. Bob was a commercial pilot and businessman who, with his wife, Elizabeth, was instrumental in establishing several active business in Western New York. Together they established and operated Niagara Falls Aviation, Inc. which was a passenger and freight charter aviation company in Niagara Falls. Those who wish to receive a memorial card can email rdb.memorial@bmca.com
Ernest R. Gasbarro, December 8, 2012, of Grand Island, husband of 62 years of Elsie O. Gasbarro; father of Ronald, Dennis (Colleen) and David Gasbarro; grandfather of Jesse (Sarah), Eric (late Jamie) Gasbarro, Miranda (Mark) Giglio and Valerie Gasbarro; brother of Dominic Gasbarro and the late Amelia, Adam, Sue, Mary, Velma, Ida, Teddy and Liz; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Monday, December 10 from 9- 10 AM with a Prayer Service, Monday at 9:30 AM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Mr. Gasbarro served in the Coast Guard during WW II, worked at Kimberly Clark in Niagara Falls and then at Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center before retiring.
Kenneth A. Killian , - November 30, 2012, age 98, of The Villages, FL, formerly of Grand Island, husband of 51 years of Dorothy Killian and the late Viola (Martin) Killian; father of Richard and James Killian, Dorolynn Hawks and Christine Phillips; also survived by seven grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren; brother of Catherine Long of Grand Island, Raymond of Buffalo, Walter of Rochester and the late Donald Killian. A memorial service will be held on Grand Island in the spring at a time to be announced. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Villagers for Hospice, 601 Casa Bella, The Villages, Fl 32162.
Gertrude (nee Schillke) Reimann, December 8, 2012, of Grand Island, wife of the late Howard Reimann; mother of Trudy (James) O'Connor, Eric (Elizabeth) Reimann, Claire (Stephen) Royce and Timothy (Aliene) Reimann; also survived by ten grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren; sister of the late Alfred Schillke, Charlotte Lascari, Margaret Williams and Ella Kellogg. A Memorial Service will be held in the spring at a time to be announced. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Habitat For Humanity, 995 Kensington Ave., Buffalo, NY 14215.
Mildred A. Weiser, died peacefully December 6, 2012 at the age of 92 under the care of Niagara Hospice. She attended Catholic schools in Buffalo, then graduated from Bryant & Stratton Business School and got a job with the War Department. She married her late husband Edward G. Weiser, Jr. in 1948 and moved to Grand Island where she resided for the rest of her life. Mildred had three children, Milanne M. (Thomas) Buchholz of Stevens Point, WI, Melisse A. Weiser of North Tonawanda and Edward G. (Bonnie) Weiser III of Grand Island. She also leaves four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces and nephews. Mildred enjoyed many eclectic pastimes during her life. She was a member of the Bridgeview Garden Club, Bell Ski Club, and exercised, and took Adult Ed classes at Grand Island High School. Millie was also an avid reader and a rabid armchair quarterback. She loved golf, the challenge of complex knitting, playing bridge, working daily crossword puzzles and cleaned like nobody else, you could ask her. After many years of riding a standard bike, she got her first ten speed at the age of 65, and traveled to France to ride with her husband and the Bell Ski Club. She traveled to many places including Mexico, Canada, Europe, and extensively in the United States. A memorial Mass will be celebrated Saturday, December 15, 2012 at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church, Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Heritage Christian Services 349 West Commercial St. Suite 2795, East Rochester, NY 14445 or Niagara Hospice House.
Christopher Schorb, December 1, 2012, at the age of 42, beloved husband and soulmate of Heather Thomson; cherished son of Judith (nee Christopher) and Brian Schorb; dearest brother of Jodi (Danielle DeMuth) Schorb; loving son-in-law of Sandra Menno; dear brother-in-law of Scott Thomson; Friends may call on Saturday, December 8, 2012 from 3-7 PM at the (Delaware Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC. 1132 Delaware Ave. (near West Ferry St.), Buffalo, NY 14209. A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, December 21st at 6 PM at the Ukrainian Cultural Center Dnipro, 562 Genesee St., Buffalo, NY 14204 (between Davis St. and Jefferson Ave.) with a Celebration of Life Party to follow. Please share condolences at www.AMIGONE.com
Mary L. (nee Marcilliott) Oddo, November 28, 2012. Wife of the late Bart J. Oddo; mother of Richard Oddo and Sylvia (Glenn) Schultz; grandmother of Lorrie Morris and Paul Oddo and the late William Schultz; great-grandmother of Brian Schultz and Rachelle Inan; great aunt of Linda (Dennis) Horan. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a graveside service at Maple Grove Cemetery, Grand Island at future day and time to be announced. Arrangements by the CARLTON A. ULLRICH FUNERAL HOME, INC
June Marie (nee Franson) Wakeley, November 21, 2012, of Grand Island, beloved wife of 57 years of John F. Wakeley; loving mother of Gail (Steven) Dixon, Barbara (Henry) Starzynski, Frank (Judith) and Donna Wakeley; cherished grandmother of Michael and Jennifer Dixon, Henry Starzynski, Jillian, Jonathan and Jaclyn Wakeley; sister of Dorothy Nelson, David (Margaret) and the late Paul Franson; daughter of the late Einar and Edith Franson; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Saturday, November 24, 2012 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral Services will be held Sunday, November 25 at 1 PM at St. Martin-In-The-Fields Episcopal Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Myelodyplastic Syndrome Foundation, 4573 S. Broad St., Suite 150, Yardville, NJ 08620.
Edward William Falsetti 61 of JERSEY CITY, NJ, passed away, peacefully, in his sleep at his apartment in Jersey City, NJ on November 6, 2012. Born in Niagara Falls, NY, he was the son of Edward S. Falsetti and the late Barbara Ann Loncto Falsetti. Ed briefly attended Calasanctius School in Buffalo, NY, and graduated from Grand Island High School. He received a BS degree in mechanical engineering at the State University of New York at Buffalo in 1980. Ed, a Professional Engineer in NYS and several other states, worked as the HVAC Discipline Manager and lead mechanical design engineer at CSA Group, Architects and Engineers in the New York City office. Projects include the High Line Maintenance & Operations Building; WWE Studios, WCBS Studios; 1440 Broadway conversion to Con Edison steam service. He was secretary of the ASHRAE-New York City Chapter and a Senior Board member. Previous to that assignment he worked as an associate mechanical engineer at Buro Happold in New York City. He was Engineer of Record for the MEP design of the World Trade Center Museum Pavilion. He also worked as a senior project manager at Dagher Engineering. Key projects include the NYC School Construction Authority Reconstruction projects. Prior to his move to New York City in 2004, Ed developed his engineering skills at Mesch Engineering, Architects and Engineers, Lockport, NY. In his 30 years at Mesch, he advanced from drafting tech to the position of president. He was the project manager and principal engineer for the design of the new Niagara County Jail and upgrades for the old jail. He also was principal engineer for the design and construction of the Erie County youth detention center. Ed had a love for sailing and belonged to the Olcott Yacht Club and served briefly as Fleet Captain. He took supreme joy in sailing one class boats like the racing 2 man dinghy 5-0-5, Shark and J-24s. He was always ready to serve as crew for others. In addition to his father, Ed is survived by three brothers, John J. Falsetti, Guy T. Falsetti (Jill) of Lockport, NY; James S. Falsetti (Nanette), of New Fairfield, CT; and one sister, Susan C. Breloff of Lockport, NY. Ed is also survived by a stepson, Scott McIntosh of Buffalo, NY; aunts, uncles and a host of nieces and nephews; many cousins and his dear friend, Sandy Nelson. There will be no prior visitation. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a memorial mass on Monday, November 19th, at 10:00 AM at St. Vincent de Paul Parish at St. Leo Church, 2748 Military Rd., Niagara Falls, NY. Inurnment will be at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial tributes may be made to the American Heart Association or to your favorite charity. Arrangements by the M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Road, Niagara Falls. Obituary Courtesy of Lockport Union-Sun Journal
Barry Vanderbrook, 56, of Grand Island, November 11, 2012. Husband of Lisa (Pirrone) Vanderbrook; father of Nicole (Galen) Dell, Justin, and Shawn Vanderbrook; son of Richard and Ruth Vanderbrook; brother of Alan (Beth), Karen, Donna (Chris) Antholzner, Brian (Cindy), and Jeff (Elaine) Vanderbrook; also surviving are several nieces and nephews. Friends may call Thursday and Friday from 2-4 and 6-8 P.M. at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, INC., 1950 Whitehaven Rd, Grand Island. Mass of Christian burial will be held Saturday at 10 A.M. from St. Stephen R.C. Parish, Grand Island.
Harold E. "Bud" Anderson of Grand Island, November 12, 2012, husband of the late Anita Ackerman Anderson; son of the late Harold and Mildred Brown Anderson; dear brother of Joyce (late Robert) Chapman, Layton (Viola), Alfred "Al" (Anita) and Gaylord (late Lovisa) Anderson; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends may call at D. LAWRENCE GINNANE FUNERAL HOME, 3215 Delaware Ave., Kenmore, Friday from 4-7 PM. All are invited to a funeral service at Knox United Presbyterian Church, 2595 Elmwood Ave. at Kinsey Ave., Kenmore, Saturday at 11 AM. Please assemble at church. Final resting place in Elmlawn Cemetery. Buffalo News Obituary
George B. Pollock, 91, of Largo, FL passed away on Sunday, November 11, 2012 in the Tierre Pines Center. George was born on October 8, 1921 in Lewiston, New York and moved to this area in 1987 coming from Grand Island, NY. He retired from the Plumbing Business and was a member of the Plumber & Steam Fitter, Local Union # 22 in Niagara Falls, NY. George served in the US Marines during WWII. He was a member of the American Legion Post 119, VFW Post 10094 both of Largo, FL, a Life Member of the DAV Post #91 in Pinellas Park, the Lockport Lodge No. 73 F & AM, the Bicentennial J's Lockport No. 73, Niagara Orleans District, Fred's 1986 Liberty Masters, Niagara Frontier #132 F & AM, Buffalo Consistory A.A. Scottish Rite and the Shriners Lodge in Buffalo, NY. George is survived by his loving wife of 25 years Loretta J. Howard of Largo, FL, three daughters, Donna (Douglas) Johnson of WA, Colleen Yates of TN, Tamie (Jeff) Matthews of NY, an adopted daughter, Kimberly (Henry) Musgrove of NY, a stepdaughter, Shelly (Tom) Reidy of NY, three stepsons, Paul (Kim) Grande , Jon (Sue) Grande and Don (Alyson) Grande all of NY, 21 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren and 3 great great grandchildren and a sister, Helen McCollum of NY. Memorial contributions may be offered to the Alzheimer's Association , 9365 US 19 North, Suite B, Pinellas Park, FL 33782. Memorial Services will be held on Saturday, December 1, 2012 at 10 am at the Moss Feaster Funeral Home, 13401 Indian Rocks Road, Largo, FL 33774, Ph# 727-562-2080. Military Honors will follow services in Serenity Gardens Memorial Park. Condolences may be offered at www.mossfeasterlargo.com.
Thomas P. Boyle Jr. of Grand Island, November 10, 2012, husband of Ann L. (Teschemacher) Boyle; father of Shawn (Joelle), Scott, and Brian (Tami) Boyle; grandfather of Isabella, Alayna, Easton, Brockton, Kaylee, Bryson and Brayden. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, November 15 at 10 AM from St. Stephen R. C. Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. If desired, memorials may be made to Roswell Park Cancer Institute.
Frances L. Bonda, - of Grand Island, November 6, 2012, wife of the late Michael J. Bonda; mother of Mary (Richard) Smyth, Phyllis (Stanley) Kokoszka, Charlene (Philip) Wicinski, Michele (Dennis) Bosinski, Dawn (Jerry) Magoffin; sister of the late Joseph Terrose, Teresa Menza, and Sarah Sorrento; grandmother of Susan, Shani, Ben, Michele, Christopher, Wendy, Tim, Jason, Kelly, Michael, the late Kevin and Allison. Friends may call Thursday, November 8 from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, INC., 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, November 9 at 10 AM from St. Stephen R.C. Church. Interment in Forest Lawn Cemetery.
Jacqueline E. (nee Parisi) Lamancuso, November 4, 2012, of Grand Island, beloved wife of 62 years of Carl Lamancuso; loving mother of Carol (Frank) Vacanti, Maria (James) Benson and Michelle Fiels; also survived by eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; dear sister of Maria (Joseph) Bueme, Norman (Mary) Parisi, Stephen (Becky) Parisi and the late Phyllis (survived by husband Pete) Cisero; daughter of the late Stephen and Mary Parisi. No prior visitation. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday, November 7 at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island.
Roger W. Ohnsorg, of Grand Island, October 22, 2012 at Roswell Park Cancer Institute. Roger was born on Staten Island, NY, in 1937, the son of William F. and Ruth Ohnsorg. After graduating from Alfred University in 1959 with a degree in Ceramic Engineering and a tour in the U.S. Army, Roger took a position with Carborundum Corporation in Keasbey, NJ and was later transferred to Niagara Falls, earning an MBA, and finishing his career at Carborundum. His research led to several patents and to his participation in international conferences. Throughout his life, Roger was an accomplished tennis and racquetball amateur, winning numerous tournaments and holding regional titles in both sports. He was also an avid gardener, volunteering with a local garden club, with his own gardens sometimes featured on the club's garden tours. Roger attended Trinity United Methodist Church on Grand Island, teaching adult classes and assisting with the church's bookkeeping tasks. Most recently, he dedicated himself to working with Congolese refugee families through the Journey's End organization, becoming much beloved by his fellow volunteers and the families he assisted in their resettlement. Roger developed a deep love and appreciation of the Niagara Falls area and its history. He authored two books, "The Bridges of Goat Island", and "Robert Lindley Murray - The Reluctant U.S. Tennis Champion", the latter book combining his interest in local history with his love for the game of tennis. Roger was pre-deceased by his parents and his sister Lee. He is survived by a brother William and his wife Deborah of Scotch Plains NJ, their two grown children and their four grandchildren. A memorial service will be held on Friday, December 7, 2012 at 10 AM at Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Contributions in Roger's memory can be made to Journey's End Refugee Services of Buffalo (www.jersbuffalo.org) or to the Refugee Fund of Trinity United Methodist Church.
Michael T. Rogan, October 29, 2012, of Grand Island, brother of James P. (Shirley) Rogan, Sr.; long time companion of Debbie Heffernan; uncle of Patricia (Guido) Burridge, Colleen Milette, James (Elizabeth) Rogan, Jr., Barbara (Robert) Moscati, Jeffrey (Ilona) Rogan and Karen (Keith) Call; also survived by 17 great-nieces and great-nephews; son of the late James and Margaret Rogan. Friends may call Thursday, November 1 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, November 2, 2012 at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or Charles DeGlopper Memorial VFW Post 9249.
Leroy Anthony Pastore, 87, of Grand Island, NY on October 29, 2012, beloved husband of Dolores N. (Costanzo) Pastore; loving father of, Joanne (Franklin) Frisina of New City, NY, Gregory S. (Patricia) Pastore of Grand Island, and late Donna Marie Pastore. He is also survived by 9 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Visitation will be Thursday, November 1 from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Rd, Niagara Falls, where funeral services begin on Friday, November 2 at 8:45 AM, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 AM in Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph Parish at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, 27th St. and Independence Ave, Niagara Falls. Interment with Military Honors in St. Joseph Cemetery. Memorial offerings to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital . Visit www.mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for guest register.
Thomas R. Collins Jr., , September 30, 2012 in Mesa, Arizona. Born February 21, 1933 in Buffalo, NY. Husband of the late Joan (Ponivas). Father of Thomas R. III, Collins, Cynthia (Timothy) Konrath, Timothy (Connie) Collins, Kelly Murphy. Grandfather of nine grandchildren, predeceased by Thomas P. Collins. Also Survived by three Great-grandchildren. Brother of Marian (Bernard) Steinbach, Bernadette (late Charles) Mussen, and the late Rita (late Jerry) Deuser, also many nieces and nephews. Mr. Collins served in the Korean War, was a past Commander of the VFW Post 9249 of Grand Island, a member of Knights of Columbus in Arizona, also a former Superintendent of the Erie County SPCA. A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Christopher's Church, 2660 Niagara Falls Blvd. on Saturday, November 3, 2012 at 11:30am.
Paula L. Diefenbach Grimm, 54 of Radcliff, Kentucky died Tuesday, October 16, 2012 at her home. She was a native of Grand Island, NY and was a retired Montessori Aide at Van Voorhis Elementary School. She was involved with Relay for Life, where she had her own team. She enjoyed volunteering, was a band mom and a youth basketball coach. She was preceded in death by her father, William F. Diefenbach. She is survived by her husband, Charles Grimm; one son, Jason (Amber) Grimm of Elizabethtown; one daughter, Sarah Grimm of Radcliff; her mother, Margaret Diefenbach of Elizabethtown; one brother, William (Susan) Diefenbach of Grand Island, NY; one sister, Julie (Robert) Meyer of Grand Island, NY and six grandchildren, Ethan, Erin, Kira, Emma, Eli and Kennedy. A Memorial Service will be Saturday at 3 p.m. at Brown Funeral Home with Rev. Roger Jasper officiating. Visitation will be from 12 to 3 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home. Graveside services will be Monday at 12 noon at the Kentucky Veterans Cemetery Central in Radcliff. Condolences may be expressed online at www.brownfuneral.com.
Daniel J. Carroll, September 20, 2012, in Raeford, NC, formerly of Grand Island, NY; beloved father of Aileen and Maureen; beloved son of the late Patrick and Jeane Carroll; beloved brother of Patrick, William, Sharon, Colleen, Kathleen and James; cousin to Donna Carroll. Dan was a former teacher and served 15 years with distinction in the U.S. Army. A Mass of Christian Burial and interment to be held at St. Stephen's, Grand Island, October 20 at 10 AM.
Carlton A. Porter, 74, of Grand Island passed away September 27, 2012; son of Ernest and Frances (Yontz) Porter; brother of Eugenia Witmer (Walter); husband of Joan; father of Jennifer (Carl) Bradsher, Dawn (Kevin) McGuire and Julie (Brad) Hetrick; poppa of eleven grandkids. Service at Fort Hill Cemetery in Auburn, NY on September 30, 2012 at 12:30. Donations can be made to the Leukemia Society.
Alice M. (nee LaFaver) Beauchamp, October 11, 2012, age 93, beloved wife of the late W. Michael Beauchamp, Sr.; devoted mother of W. Michael (Sandra) Beauchamp, Jr., Patrick (Karen) Beauchamp and Linda (late George) Guenther; loving grandmother of eight grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren; dear sister of Elda Mary Mackey, Carol Jean Spring, Dorothy Murphy and Marlene Scruton, all of Michigan; dear friend of Lorraine Williams; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Alice graduated from St. Mary's School of Nursing in Detroit and was a Registered Nurse. The family will be present Monday, October 15 from 4-8 PM at the GRECO FUNERAL HOME, 2909 Elmwood Ave., (near Sheridan Dr.). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 16 at 10:00 AM from St. Stephen's RC Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. Please assemble at church. Interment will follow in Elmlawn Cemetery. The family wishes to thank the staff of ElderWood at Riverwood for their loving care. Share condolences at www.GRECOFUNERAL.com
Reginald A. Pike, October 11, 2012, of Grand Island, husband of 61 years of Gretchen S. Pike; father of Robert and Douglas (Joan) Pike; grandfather of Erica (Jordan) Safan and Justin Pike. The Pike family will receive friends Saturday, October 13, 2012, 2-5 PM at their home at 5740 East River Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials my be made to Hospice Buffalo. Mr. Pike was a former employee at Praxair in Tonawanda.
Wayne Vincent Miller, 56, of Las Vegas, Nevada, formerly of Grand Island, NY passed away on September 9, 2012. He was born on January 29, 1956 in Buffalo, New York to Ward and Dorcas Brady Miller. After High School Wayne joined the Air Force and worked on Jet Engines. While serving in the Air Force he married Georgie Greene on January 11, 1979 in Germany. They moved to the Las Vegas Area in 1980. Wayne was a member of the Knight Riders MC. He loved to ride motorcycles. He is survived by his wife Georgie Miller of Las Vegas, NV; three children Tamara (Anthony) Miller of Las Vegas, NV, Loni (Chris) Lybbert of Rainer, WA, Wade Miller of Las Vegas, NV; five grandchildren Katrina Miller, Derek Miller, Nicholas Cohen, Ryan, Cohen, Jason Cohen; a brother Gary Miller; a sister Daryl Miller. Wayne was cremated and he will be laid to rest at the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery on Monday, September 24, 2012 at 12:40 am. The family invites you to sign an online memorial guestbook at www.bouldercityfamilymortuary.com
Eunice W. (nee Kimball) Gibney, October 5, 2012, of Grand Island, wife of the late John F. Gibney; mother of John D. (Elaine), Tim J. and Christopher E. (Michele) Gibney; grandmother of Stacy (Jeff) Green, Kelly (Mike) Kwiatkowski, Christy (Matt) Williams, Christopher J. and Brianna Gibney; great- grandmother of Hailey, Karissa and Aidan Green, Carson and Mackenna Kwiatkowski and up coming bundle of joy Williams; daughter of the late David and Florence Kimball; also survived by many dear friends. Friends may call Monday, October 8 and Tuesday, October 9 from 4-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Memorial services will be held Wednesday, October 10 at 11 AM at St. Timothy Lutheran Church. Memorials may be made Hospice Buffalo or the Special Olympics.
William F. Diefenbach, 83, of Elizabethtown, died Tuesday, October 2, 2012 at Jewish Hospital in Louisville. He was a native of Buffalo, NY, a Korean War U.S. Marine Corps veteran and a life member of V.F.W., The Chosen Few, American Legion and the Korean War Veterans Association. He also was a deputy for the Erie County Sheriff's Department and was a member of the Fraternal Order of Police. He was preceded in death by his parents, William Charles and Edith L. Storm Diefenbach. He is survived by his wife, Margaret Shoemaker Diefenbach; two daughters, Julie (Robert) Meyer of Grand Island, NY and Paula (Charles) Grimm of Radcliff; one son, William (Susan) Diefenbach of Grand Island; six grandchildren, Robert Meyer, Steven Meyer, Jason Grimm, Sarah Grimm, William Diefenbach and Katherine Diefenbach; and seven great grandchildren. Visitation is from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, October 5, 2012 at Brown Funeral Home in Elizabethtown. Condolences may be expressed at www.brownfuneral.com
Bernice T. (nee Szostak) Maras, October 1, 2012, of Grand Island formerly of Cheektowaga; wife of the late Stanley W. Maras; mother of Ronald (Nancy) Maras and Cynthia (Joseph) Gioia; grandmother of Anita (Brian) Re, Kevin (Heather) Maras and Karen Gioia; great-grandmother of Alexander and Zachary Re, Sierra and Ashley Maras. Friends may call Wednesday, October 3, 2012 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 Thursday, October 4 at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church, Grand Island. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital .
Janet M. Weyland entered into rest September 29, 2012. Resident of Grand Island. Dear sister of Patricia (the late Paul) Barraclough and Christine Weyland. Also survived by several nieces and nephews. Beloved daughter of the late Elmer and Vera Weyland. Friends may call Tuesday, October 2 from 7 - 8:30 PM followed by funeral services at 8:30 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo or Roswell Park Cancer Institute.
Kali J. (Mordaunt) Korzelius, September 26, 2012, a resident of Grand Island. Beloved wife of Matthew J. Korzelius. Â cherished daughter of Jacqueline Pritchard and Timothy Mordaunt. Loving sister of Victoria Mordaunt, Scott Brewer and the late Keith Brewer. Granddaughter of Elsie and the late Bud Pritchard, James and the late Dorothy Mordaunt. Daughter-in-law of Diana Villalobos and Mark Korzelius. Services will be held at the convenience of the family. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Roswell Park Alliance Adolescent Young Adult Program.
Robert K. Kaiser Sr., formerly of Grand Island, passed away September 23, 2012 at his home in New Port Richey, Fl. He was being cared for by his wife, Lois and hospice. Bob was a charter member of Post 1376, American Legion on Grand Island. He was a paid member for over 66 yrs. Bob was also a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Bob served as tax receiver/collector on Grand Island for 40 years with his wife. They collected taxes in their home for many years, moving to the new town hall in 1981 . Bob was a charter member of the Grand Island Memorial Library and served as President for 5 years. Bob was instrumental, along with many other dedicated island residents, in moving the library from the basement of the original town hall to the new town hall. His mother served as librian for over 30 years.
Leonard J. "Andy" Anderson, September 27, 2012, of Grand Island, husband of 65 years of Violet M. Anderson; father of Richard (Bridget) Anderson, Judy Weston and the late Robert Anderson; grandfather of Tracey (Bill) Shickluna, Teresa Weston-Scherer, Jill Anderson, Rose Weston and Mark Anderson; great-grandfather of Cassie, Megan and Brett Shickluna; brother of Agnes Cook and the late Margaret Hillman, Melvin Anderson and Elizabeth Place; son of the late Helen and Wilbert Anderson. Friends may call Sunday, September 30 from 2-4 & 7-9 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Bible Fellowship Center, 1136 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, where funeral services will be held Monday, October 1 at 10 AM.
Nellie (Kasprzak) Czapla, 93, passed away on September 26, 2012, at Buffalo General Hospital. She was born in Niagara Falls, the daughter of the late John and Tekla (Godzisz) Kasprzak. Mrs. Czapla is survived by her daughters, Maryanne (Paul) DelMonte of Largo, FL and Dorothy (John) White of Niagara Falls, and her son, James (Helen) Czapla of Grand Island. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren, Dr. Christine (Dr. Gregory) Gan, Anthony White, Joanne White, Anna (Tom) Czarples, Cynthia Czapla, Nicole, Dominic and Michael DelMonte. She was predeceased by her husband, John Czapla, who passed away on November 16, 2007; and her brother, Joseph Kasprzak. THERE IS NO PRIOR VISITATION. Friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Friday, at 10:00 AM at Divine Mercy Parish, corner of Niagara and 24th Streets, with Rev. Jacek P. Mazur officiating. PLEASE ASSEMBLE AT CHURCH. Mass donations will be greatly appreciated, or memorial donations may be made to Divine Mercy Parish or the Historic Holy Trinity Church. Interment in Holy Trinity Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to LABUDA FUNERAL HOME, INC.
Albert Payne Jr., of Grand Island, survived by his wife Gerarda (Ada) Payne of 40 years. He is also survived by his 3 daughters, Miranda Payne Pachan (Michael Pachan, Lockport), Maryke Payne (Grand Island) and Marina Payne (Grand Island). Burt also had 3 grandchildren; Natalia, Anthony and Lucas. Burt had many siblings, nieces and nephews in various areas including Niagara Falls and Atlanta Georgia. Burt was actively involved in the community and was a member of the Grand Island VFW 9249. He was also a member of the Grand Island Rod and Gun Club, The Knights of Columbus and The Lions Club. Burt lost his three-year long battle with Multiple Myeloma on Tuesday, September 25, 2012 after several treatments had failed. Albert and Ada were married at St. Timothy's Lutheran Church on Grand Island in 1972. Soon after they met, Burt was deployed in the U.S. Army and they kept together through mail correspondence. After they married, they resided on Grand Island and raised their family there. Burt was also a Dunlop retiree. A church service will be held Friday, September 28 at 10 a.m. at St. Timothy Lutheran Church, Grand Island and all are welcome to attend. If you would like to get involved, contact Roswell Park Cancer Institute (www.Roswellpark.org) to donate platelets or blood. Arrangements by LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME, (Northtowns Chapel). Online condolences may be made at www.lombardofuneralhome.com
Joseph D'Ingillo, entered into rest September 25, 2012. Â resident of Grand Island, he was the loving husband of 64 years of Colleen (Kelly) D'Ingillo. Â devoted father of Cristine (John) Amtsberg, James (Karen), Jonathan A. and the late Joseph M. D'Ingillo. Âlso survived by 8 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Â brother of the late Guy (late Charlotte) D'Ingillo. Friends may call Friday (September 28) 2-4 & 7-9 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home where funeral services will be held Saturday at 11 AM. Interment will be in Whitehaven Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Soc. Mr. D'Ingillo was a World War II Veteran. In 1943 he trained in Skagway, Alaska, then was deployed to Calcutta, India in the China Burma India Theater in the 286th Port Company of the 508th Port Battalion-Transportation Corps from 1944-1946. He was employed as an Analytical Chemist for 20 years at E.I DuPont and 20 years at Pierce & Stevens Chemical Company.
Karen Ranum, 68, former Grand Island resident, of Grand Marais, MN. She leaves behind her husband of 45 years, Peter Ranum; a daughter, Amie; sister, Pat Pannek; brother Ed McNiece; and grandsons Toby and Cole Slater.
James K. Fuller, retired from retail sales
March 1, 1935 - Aug. 28, 2012
James K. Fuller of Buffalo, a retired retail sales worker, died Aug. 28 in Kenmore Mercy Hospital, Town of Tonawanda. He was 77. Born in Buffalo, he grew up on Grand Island and was a graduate of Tonawanda High School. Mr. Fuller worked for several different retail stores from 1953 until his retirement in 2007, and in a variety of different positions, including as a cashier, sales associate, displaying store merchandise, training new employees and as an assistant manager. His longest term of employment was with Kmart, which was for 13 years. He received numerous awards for customer service at Kmart. He also was employed at Sears and most recently at Home Depot. He had worked for retail establishments, not only in the Buffalo area, but in Jamestown and Rochester, where he resided from the early 1950s until 1969, and in Wilmington, N.C., where he lived from 1980 to 1986. After his retirement, Mr. Fuller volunteered as a docent at the Buffalo & Erie County Naval and Military Park, where he portrayed a Navy man and gave tours of the ships, something he called the best part of his retirement. He was a Civil War buff and avid reader who collected many books. He also played the guitar and composed music. He is survived by a daughter, Alison Davis; a son, Steven; a sister, Joyce White; a brother, Richard; and two ex-wives, Marian and Shirley. A memorial service will be scheduled.
Priscille Rose Mitchell Burket, entered into rest September 15, 2012. She was a resident of Grand Island. She was the wife of Frank Burket and the late Ted Mitchell. Mother of Richard "Jim" (Janet) Mitchell and Steve Mitchell. Step mother of Richard Burket. Grandmother of Brandy Lanman, Micaela A. Mitchell and Elizabeth R. Mitchell. Great grandmother of Brice and Logan. Sister of Andrew (Joan) Beauchesne. Aunt of Michael Beauchesne. Private services were held at the convenience of the family. Interment was in Whitehaven Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society. Arrangements by Kaiser Funeral Home.
Robert J. Riordan, of Grand Island, entered into rest suddenly September 9, 2012. Beloved husband of Christine A. (nee Schieble); devoted father of Robert J. (Linda) Riordan Jr., Susan (EJ) Flynn, Wendy (Mark) Begovich, Tracie (Gene Gregoric) Riordan, Sean Riordan and the late Cindy A. Miller Riordan; cherished grandfather of 15 grandchildren and one great-grandchild; loving son of the late John J. and Edna M. (nee McFarland) Riordan; dear brother of John J. Jr. (Patricia) Riordan and Francis P. (Dianne) Riordan; dearest friend of Patricia (Richard) Mallon; also survived by many relatives and friends. Relatives and friends may visit the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northtowns Chapel) 885 Niagara Falls Blvd. near Eggert/Sheridan Dr. on Friday, September 14 from 4-7 PM. A funeral service will immediately follow. Online condolences may be made at www.lombardofuneralhome.com
Clara (nee Korpan) Brown, August 28, 2012, of Grand Island, wife of the late James Brown; devoted mother of James (Judy) Brown and Colleen (Larry) Furnia; beloved grandmother of D.J. (Tracy) Rinker, Lauren (Keith) Roach and Katie Collins; cherished great-grandmother of Cameron Roach, Abbey Collins, Dylan and Logan Rinker. Friends may call Friday, August 31 from 3-7 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, September 1 at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.
C Roy Gerard, August 28, 2012, of Grand Island, husband of 61 years of Roslyn (Faust) Gerard; father of Laura (Michael) Hassan, Vivian, Alice and Diane Gerard; grandfather of Devin (Chrisha) Dilley and James Thompson; great-grandfather of Claire Elisabeth Dilley; brother of the late Fred Clarke and Eva Simons. Graveside services will be held Friday, August 31 at 11 AM at Whitehaven Cemetery, 3089 East River Rd., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined.
Ardys J. (nee Miller) Hamm, August 26, 2012, age 88, of Grand Island, after a long illness. Wife of the late Frederick K. Hamm; mother of Nancy (Donald) Hamm-Johnson, Merle (Marinna), Frederick (Gail), Jeffrey (Janice) and the late Roger F. Hamm; sister of Melva Budnik, Joyce Wankasky, Nina, Betty, Rolland, Michael and Ronald Miller and the late Carol Eberle, Richard, Donald and Merle Miller; grandmother of the late Eric F. Hamm-Johnson; also surviving are ten grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, three great-great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews. Friends may call from 2-4 and 6-8 PM on Thursday, August 30 at the HAMP FUNERAL HOME, INC., 37 Adam St. at Seymour, Tonawanda, where services will be held at 10 AM Friday, August 31. Friends invited. Complete obituary, condolences and directions at www.hampfuneral.com
Elaine Belstraz, August 28, 2012, of Grand Island; wife of 52 years of Eugene Belstraz, mother of Leloni (Nick) Cordilione of Endicott, NY, Henry (Valerie) Lundy of Los Angeles, CA, Lance (Gayle) Lundy of Tuscon, AZ, and Cindy Nagler of Niagara Falls; grandmother of Ryan Cordilione, Kayla (Chris) Hammond, Alyssa, Bradford and Alex (Tiffany) Lundy, Leah and Melanie Nagler, also survived by four great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews, sister of the late Curtis Lewis Jr. Friends may call Friday, August 31 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, September 1 at 11:30 AM at St. Stephen's Church, in lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the National Kidney Foundation (kidney.org). Being a long time Grand Islander, Elaine was an avid water sports enthusiast and also enjoyed bowling and golf for many years. She shared these interests with her children and grandchildren as they vacationed each summer at her river front home. She also loved to read and was a member of the book club at the Golden Age Center of Grand Island.
Tom Hayes, May 13, 2012. Friends are invited to join with the family of Tom Hayes in a celebration of his life, Sunday, September 2 from 2-4 PM at 124 Clinton St., Tonawanda, NY. A death notice may be found below.
Shirley A. (nee Kramer) Gerspach, August 14, 2012, of Grand Island. Beloved wife of the late Richard A. Gerspach; dear mother of Glen Gerspach of Buffalo, Darcy (Richard) Swenson of Homer, AK and Paul (Pamela) Gerspach of Lewiston; cool grandmother of Noah, Ryan, Isaac, Natalie, Adam and Dillon; beloved sister of Linda (Andy) Owen, Donna Michaels and Clay Hubert Jr. Private services were held at the convenience of the family. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.
Valerie Watts Bush, July 12, 2012, age 47, of Lakeview, OR, formerly of Grand Island, NY, daughter of Edward "Dewey" (Linda) and the late Judith (nee Mohr) Bush; mother of Jonathan, Melissa and Taylor Watts; sister of Vicky Bush-Muschaweck; grandmother of Kaydance Watts. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday, August 22 at 10 AM at St. Stephen RC Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. Friends invited. If desired, memorials to St. Stephen Church are preferred by the family. Complete obituary and condolences at www.hampfuneral.com.
Jack W. Senn Jr., formerly of Grand Island, NY, died suddenly of heart failure on August 11, 2012, husband of Terri; father of Jennifer Senn, Jack Robert (Alicia); grandfather of Jack Thomas and the late Grace Elizabeth; son of Alma and the late Jack Senn Sr.; brother of Cindy Bindics, Diane Pembleton (Chuck), Bruce Senn, Debra Rinio (Sieg) and Nancy McCallister (Marty); also survived by many nieces and nephews. A Memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, September 22 at Bible Fellowship Church, 1136 Baseline Road (note change of time)
Lloyd J. Long, Island native, August 3, 2012. See Buffalo News Obituary.
J. David McGraw, July 31, 2012, of Grand Island, beloved husband of Mary A. McGraw; loving father of Kathleen (Michael) Janus, Joan (Calvin) VanderMey and Tim (Kristen) McGraw; adored grandfather of Alex, Nathan, John, Joy, Grace, Megan and Lily; dear brother of Grace (Jack) McCormack, James P. (Mary) McGraw II and Edward McGraw. friends may call Friday, August 3 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, August 4 at 8:45 AM at St. Stephen's Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society .
Doris R. (nee Hansler) Pettitt, July 25, 2012, of Grand Island; former wife of Claude "Bob" Pettitt; mother of Pamela (Bruce) Paschen of Florida, Robert (Linda) Pettitt, Brian (Barb) Pettitt, both of Grand Island and Jeffrey (Deborah) Pettitt of Florida; grandmother of Shawna (Michael) Mann, Michelle (Jeremy) Cox, Robert and Marie Pettitt; great-grandmother of Ashleigh and Austin Mann. Friends may call Saturday, September 29, 2-5 PM followed by memorial services Saturday at 5 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to the Grand Island Golden Age Center 3278 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, NY 14072.
William Gebrian of Grand Island entered into rest July 19, 2012. Survived by his wife Eilene D. Gebrian, a daughter Amy H. Gebrian, and sister Anne (late Kenneth) Rhodes. Predeceased by his brothers George (late Lee), John (late Eileen), Peter (survived by wife Nina) and Michaael Gebrian, and his sisters Helen (late Walter) Ashcraft, Mary (late Stanley) Hojnowski, Paula (late Bill Robinson) and Margaret (late Jerry) Goode. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends my call Saturday, August 4 from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. followed by memorial services at 1:30 p.m. at St. Timothy Lutheran Church, 1453 Staley Road. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Niaqara Hospice or the Erie County SPCA. Arrangemaents by the Kaiser Funeral Home.
John J. Turley, July 21, 2012; father of Dale and Jaclyn Turley; grandfather of Brandon Parks; son of Patricia and the late Rusell Turley; brother of Paul (Diane) and Debra (Donald) Kamman; also survived by nieces and nephews. A Memorial Service will be held at C. MERTZ AND SON FUNERAL HOME, INC., 911 Englewood Ave on Tuesday, July 31st at 11 AM. Memorials in his memory to Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center, 1080 Military Road, Buffalo, NY 14217. Share condolences at mertzfh.com
Richard L. Webb, of Burt, NY, formerly of California, entered into rest suddenly July 16, 2012. Richard, who grew up on Grand Island, NY, was born in Buffalo, NY, March 11, 1944, the son of the late Chester and Cornelia VanSon Webb. Richard was an avid bicyclist, which included several “The Ride For Roswell” events around Grand Island, NY. Father of Tara Webb (Ray Lagas) of Hamlin, NY, Kelly (Andres) Guadardo of St. Petersburg, FL and Debra Webb of Elcentro, California. Brother of Ronald (Nancy) Webb of Olcott, NY, Priscilla (Hartwig) Nicolaus of Conesus, NY, Michael (Deborah) Webb of Phoenix, AZ and the late Robert Webb. Brother-in-law of Ann Webb of Burt, NY. Also survived by seven grandchildren: Raymond Mark, Kaitlyn Marie and Anthony Michael Lagas, Alisha Leigh, Ashley Ann and Jonathan Leigh Gray and Michael Anthony Dwire. Also several nieces and nephews. No prior visitation. A Celebration of Life will held at the convenience of the family. Memorial Service and burial will be in Elmlawn Cemetery, Tonawanda, NY on Friday, August 17, 2012 at noon. Friends invited. Memorials to Roswell Park Cancer Institute in Richard's honor would be appreciated by the family. Please visit www.rutland-corwin.com to send a condolence to the family. Please visit www.rutland-corwin.com to send a condolence to the family.
Michael F. Ford, 76, passed away Sunday, July 8, 2012. Preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Ford and Edith Landreville Ford, and a sister, Patricia Sudore Fisher. Also survived by his wife, Barbara; his former wife, Bonnie; sons, Chris Ford of Virginia; Doug Ford of North Carolina; and Greg Ford of New York; Gregory Watroba of California; Thomas Watroba of New York; and daughter, Diane Broeker of LaVaergne, TN; 15 grandchildren and his brother, Thomas Ford of New Jersey. Funeral services were held July 13, 2012 at Miracle Baptist Church of LaVergne, TN.
Brenda K. V. (nee Minns) Young, July 15, 2012 of Grand Island. Wife of the late Edward B. Young Sr.; mother of Edward B. Young Jr. of Geneseo, NY, Margaret B. (Charles) Kownaski of Grand Island, Elizabeth A. Rivers of Glendale, AZ and the late William T. Young and Diane F. Martini; also survived by 6 grandchildren and 1 greatgranddaughter; daughter of the late William and Emma Minns;, sister of the late Colin Minns, Gwen Hall and Phyllis Lenton; friends may call Tuesday, July 17 from 6-8 PM followed by prayers at 8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Hospice Buffalo.
Lewis D. Rindone, a long time resident of Grand Island in the 1920s-1940s, passed away on Sept. 1, 2010. Son of the late Rocco and Bertha Rindone and father of David L. Rindone. Also survived by a brother, Guy E. Rindone. Brother of the late Mary (Rindone) Fontana, Blaise Rindone, Lib Rindone, Marietta (Rindone) Ferro, and Genevieve (Rindone) George. Also brother-in-law of Joseph Ferro and Dr. John Fontana.
Raymond A. Wilson, July 4, 2012, of Grand Island, husband of Ellen Wilson; father of David (Kathy) Wilson of Seattle, WA and Robert Wilson of Williamsburg, VA; grandfather of Daniel, Monica, Theresa, Tony and Mike; brother of Russell Wilson. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Canine Helpers for the Handicapped, 5699 Ridge Rd., Lockport 14094 or Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island 14072, where Memorial Services will be held Tuesday, July 10 at 11 AM.
Rev. Msgr. Rupert Wright, Pastor Emeritus of St. Gregory the Great Church, July 3, 2012, age 82, beloved son of the late Catherine M. (nee Barrett) and Rupert A. Wright, Sr.; dear brother of Richard M. (Carolyn) Wright, DDS of Fredonia, NY and the late Julian B. Wright. Msgr. Wright will lie in state on Thursday, July 5 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM and Friday, July 6 from 2-4 and 7:30-9 PM at St. Gregory the Great Church, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be concelebrated Friday at 10:00 AM. Most Rev. Edward M. Grosz, D.D. V.G., Auxiliary Bishop of Buffalo, will be Principal Celebrant. Interment will be in Holy Cross Cemetery, Jamestown, NY. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Rev. Msgr. Rupert A. Wright Catholic Education Fund c/o St. Gregory the Great School, 200 St. Gregory Ct., Williamsville, NY 14221 or Brothers of Mercy, 10570 Bergtold Rd., Clarence, NY 14031. Arrangements by the AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC. (716) 836-6500. Share your condolences at www.AMIGONE.com
Memorial Service for Marion A. Pinkow
A service to celebrate and remember the life of Marion Pinkow will be held Sunday, July 15th at 1 p.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island. Marion passed away on January 13, 2012. Friends and family are invited to attend.
Frederick P. Zajdowicz, - June 30, 2012, of Grand Island, beloved husband of 50 years of Beverly M. (Reckahn) Zajdowicz; devoted father of Philip F. (Tammy) Zajdowicz and Robyn L. (Dr. E. Thomas) Thomas; father-in-law of the late Donald J. Young; adoring grandfather of Drew J. Young, Taylor and Lindsey Zajdowicz; brother of Lottie Ide; predeceased by six brothers and sisters; son of the late Catherine Wanak. Friends may call Monday, July 2 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island where Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, July 3 at 10 AM. Rev. Richard George, officiating. Mr. Zajdowicz was an Arson Fire Investigator with the Buffalo Fire Dept. for 30 years and was a veteran of the US Army.
Lawrence J. Desemone, June 24, 2012, age 86, survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Rita (nee Lewandowski); father of James (Graciela), John (Lisa) Desemone and Cynthia (Stephan) Kovacs; also survived by five granddaughters; brother of Jose (Linda) Yguado, Alex (Patricia) Yguado, the late Mary (late Adolfo) Salas and the late Manual (Gloria) Yguado. Friends may call Tuesday, June 26 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday, June 27 at 10:00 AM at St. Stephen's Church, Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, St. Stephen's Church Fund, or to a charity of your choice.
Jennifer Dawn (nee Story) Jaegers June 18, 2012, of Grand Island, wife of Joseph P. Jaegers; mother of Jennifer (Keith) Flick, Joseph P. (Stephanie) Jaegers Jr. and Patricia (Keith) Hale; grandmother of Carisa, Erika, Jared, Jose, Megan, Marcel, Julianna, Katie and Johnny; daughter of Joan Renner; sister of Alan and Sherrill; also survived by loving nieces and nephews. Friends may call Tuesday, June 19 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral Services will be held Wednesday at 8 PM at New Apostolic Church, 314 Pine Ridge Rd., Cheektowaga.
Ronald Paul Kemsley, June 18, 2012, of Grand Island, husband of the late Ida L. Kemsley; devoted father of Debbie (Bernard) Ferroni, Mark Kemsley, Sharon (Frank) D'Agostino, Roy (Kimberley) Kemsley, David (Dana) Kemsley, Laurie (Ray) Szczepanowski, Amy (William) Price and the late Donna (survived by husband Gary) Kozakiewicz; devoted grandmother of Eric Kozakiewicz, Amanda (Eric) Richardson, Katherine Ferroni, Mark (Kristin) and Michael (Katie) Pawlak, Jenna and Matthew D'Agostino, Paul Kemsley, Kimberly Cappola, Marissa and Debbie Szczepanowski, Felicia and Mason Price; also survived by nine great-grandchildren; brother of Robert (late Eva) and Jared (Martha) Kemsley. Friends may call Wednesday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand island. Funeral services will be held Thursday at 10 AM at St. Martin-In-The-Fields Episcopal Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.
Cynthia Ann (Riordan) Miller, Suddenly June 17, 2012; loving mother of Christie Lynne, Karianne, Kreig Jr., Cody and Kennith; daughter of Patricia Mallon and Robert Riordan Sr.; sister of Robert Riordan Jr, Susan Flynn, Wendy Begovich, Tracie Riordan and Sean Riordan. No prior visitation. Friends are invited to attend a memorial service from the Harbor Lights Fellowship Church, 1821 Grand Island Blvd., Thursday, June 21 at 10 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the National Assoc. for Children of Alcoholics, 10920 Connecticut Ave, Suite 100, Kensington, MD 20895 or visit www.NACoA.org. Condolences to www.denglerrobertspernafuneral.com
Beverly J. Kroetsch, - June 10, 2012, of Grand Island. Wife of the late George L. Kroetsch; mother of Glenn Kroetsch, Denise Gibson, George Kroetsch Jr. and Thomas (Vinette) Kroetsch; grandmother of Eve Truhune, Hans Kroetsch, Ashley Kroetsch and Sabrina; sister of the late Thomas Burford. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Wednesday, June 20, at 10:15 AM at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the SPCA.
George C. Reid, June 13, 2012, age 88, of Grand Island, NY, beloved husband of Dorothy (nee Peterson); beloved father of Francis (Deborah), Felicia (James) Kreuzer, Thomas (Sue), Cecilia (Kevin) Driscoll, Teresa (late Peter) Becker, Elizabeth (Thomas) Murphy, Rosetta (Patrick) Railey and the late Mary Rose Reid; also survived by 14 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. George grew up in Minnesota and lived in Western New York for over 50 years. Employed as a research chemist with Spencer Kellogg Industries until his retirement. Active in church organizations, including the Legion of Mary and Franciscan Third Order. George was an avid reader and writer, completing a memoir describing his childhood on a farm during the Depression years. He also loved classical music and enjoyed poetry and learning new languages. Nature walks and photography were other favorite hobbies. Friends may call Friday, June 15 from 4 - 8 PM at the SINICKI FUNERAL HOME, 250 Orchard Park Road, West Seneca, 892-8160 (same location as Sieck & Mast Funeral Home). A Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, June 16 at 9 AM at St. Andrew's Church, Crocker and Reiman Street, Sloan (Please assemble at church). Interment in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.
Jan Matthews, 67, of Grand Island, NY passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, June 10. He was the second of 5 children, born in Rochester, NY in 1945, the son of the late Robert E. and Dorothy J. (Martin) Matthews.
While finishing high school in Painted Post, NY he was appointed to the U.S. Naval Academy where he began in June 1962 and upon graduation with a B.S. in Naval Engineering married his beloved wife Mary (Barron) Matthews and was immediately stationed at Pensacola, FL where he was trained as a naval aviator. He continued his service for an additional 8 years flying Sikorsky helicopters and instructing new flight trainees in instrument flight. Jan had many wonderful stories about his time in the Navy and aboard multiple ships including the famed USS Forestall aircraft carrier. He was popular with people of all ranks, often bartering helicopter rides with enlisted men and officers alike, facilitating an environment where all were respected regardless of their rank. Although his near-perfect vision had declined slightly with age, it was a cherished inheritance by those of his children who also were blessed with it.
After an honorable discharge from the Navy, Jan entered the field of marketing and applications engineering of technical products, with a position at Texas Instruments where he thrived and was always in tune with the latest technical products, which at the time were digital watches and calculators. As a people person, he was very successful in marketing and soon moved on to marketing transducers and other sensing devices where he held numerous marketing manager and vice president positions at several companies including ViaTran, Schlumberger, Sensotron, and GE Druck, which enabled him to become a world renowned expert on pressure instrumentation, constantly innovating new applications and products across a multitude of emerging technologies ranging from products used on the Stealth aircraft to submersible wireless oil field operations and waste water treatment applications.
In retirement he started a consulting business called US Pressure, giving advice on transducer applications, and enjoyed volunteering at the Stage theater in Warsaw, NY and learning new skills renovating a house.
Jan made friends instantly wherever he went, generously giving freely of himself and his resources. He was a world traveler, often bringing his wife and children on trips during their youth such that they experienced a love of travel and an ability to pack up and leave for an adventure on a moment’s notice whether it by car or plane. He and his wife Mary during much of their lives had multiple residences across the country and were often known to drop everything and drive alone from New York to California to see one another and visit children and relatives along the way. He had unique and fun hobbies throughout his life, such as flying helicopters over Niagara Falls during the tourist seasons shortly after he and his family moved to Grand Island, NY in 1978.
From his youth, Jan taught himself to play the guitar and had a love of folk music. All family events involved sing-alongs where he and others played a multitude of musical instruments. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and fondly recalled summers with his relatives at Silver Lake, NY where he had recently reconnected with long lost friends.
Jan loved mentoring children of all ages, and was particularly interested in helping children excel in music, math, and reading. He often expressed enthusiasm in talking with children, not only about their studies, but about knowing them as people with respect to their individual personalities and strengths and talents. He cherished the time he spent with grandchildren Britny, CJ, David, Alex, Mitchell, Summer, and Skye as well as children of other close relatives and family friends.
Jan is survived by two daughters: Suzanne (Keith Hill) Matthews of Horseheads, NY, and Nancy (Russell) Blondin of Minneapolis, MN; two sons: Jeffrey (Tamie) Matthews of Grand Island, NY, and Michael (Patti) Matthews of Phoenix, AZ; the 6 grandchildren named above; brothers Gary (Sally) Matthews and Stephen (Sandi) Matthews; a sister Andrea (Tom Toleno) Matthews, and several nieces and nephews.
Jan was predeceased by his wife Mary Barron Matthews on September 12, 2010, his brother Robert E Matthews II, as well as by his parents.
Friends and family may call Saturday June 16, 2012 from 12:00pm to 2:00pm at Phillips Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 17 W. Pulteney St., Corning, NY, with a funeral service at 2:00pm. Reverend Richard Hubbard will officiate, and immediately following a reception celebrating his life will be held at the residence of Gary Hamilton at 492 N. Hamilton Street in Painted Post, NY.
He will be buried with military honors next to his beloved wife on their 46th wedding anniversary on Monday June 18 at 12:00pm at Maple Grove Cemetery in Friendship, NY.
Paschal "Patsy" Giancola, 90, of Grand Island, formerly of Niagara Falls, June 8, 2012, husband of the late Eugenia (Evangelist) Giancola and Adeline (Milburn) Giancola of Grand Island; beloved father of Rosanne (Patrick) Inserra of Phoenix, AZ, Patricia (Dennis) Sobotka of East Amherst, Gary (Ann) Giancola of Grand Island, Marianne (Patric) Giancola Lewis of Wheatfield; also survived by 10 grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, brothers Vince Giancola of Pennsylvania, Francis Giancola of Las Vegas, late Santo Giancola, several nieces, nephews, cousins. Visitation Wednesday 4-8 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Rd., Niagara Falls, where Funeral Services begin Thursday, June 14 at 12:15 PM and at 1 PM at St. John De LaSalle Church, 8469 Buffalo Ave., Niagara Falls. Interment in St. Joseph Cemetery. Memorials to Disabled American Veterans. Visit us at www.mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com.
Timothy Michael Durgin, also known as "Bicycle Timmy", who loved riding his bicycle and an avid Saints Fan and outdoorsman entered into eternal rest on Thursday, June 7, 2012 at the age of 33. Beloved and loving son of Alvin Durgin, III and Catherine Durgin. Brother of Steven Durgin (wife Zoe). Uncle of Julia Durgin. Grandson of Dora E. Durgin and the late Capt. Alvin Durgin, Jr., Flora Arnst and James Budwey. Step grandson of the late Edward Arnst. Godson of Gwendolyn Davis and the late James Janson. He was a pure delightful young man who absolutely had a big compassionate heart and for that, he will be missed by all. The family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to the members and staff of St. Michael's Special School in New Orleans for their love and care given to Timothy. The family is also asking in lieu of flowers, please consider making donations to St. Michael's Special School in memory of Timothy. In his earlier years, he worked at Delchamps, Albertson's and Walmart stores. He was a hard worker at the stores and for that he gained the utmost love and respect not only from the customers, but from his co-workers as well. He was a patron of Murphy's Bar located on Gretna Blvd. in Gretna, LA. Relatives and friends and all of Timothy's friends are invited to attend the visitation at MOTHE FUNERAL HOME, 2100 Westbank Expressway, Harvey, LA on Tuesday, June 12, 2012 from 9AM until 1PM. A Funeral Mass will be held in the Chapel on Tuesday at 1PM. Interment will be in McDonogh Cemetery, Gretna, LA. Family and friends may view and sign the online guestbook at www.mothefunerals.com. Information: 504-366-4343.
Richard P. Fox, June 4, 2012, a longtime resident of Grand Island, Class of 1976, beloved father of Rachel and Samantha Fox; son of Doris K. Fox and the late Paul Fox, brother to Kimberly (Jim) Piatek, Terry Fox, Daniel (Maria) Fox, Sharon Fox and Brian Fox. Rick was the uncle of Jeremy, Matthew, Steven , Michelle, Everett, Jena, Eric, Christina, Andrew, Paul and Joseph. Friends may call Saturday, June 16th at Dengler and Roberts Funeral Home, 3000 Delaware Ave. in Kenmore, NY from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. A memorial service will follow from 3 p.m. until 4 p.m.
Jostein J. “Joe” Vadla, a retired metallurgical engineer with Union Carbide, died May 18 in the Niagara Hospice Home. He was 89. Born in Ardal, Norway, the fifth of 10 children of a school headmaster, he came to the U.S. in 1947 and joined an uncle in Iowa. He earned a degree in chemical engineering from Iowa State University in 1952. After graduation, he accepted a job with Union Carbide, which assigned him to its Niagara Falls plant. He purchased a home on Grand Island and became a U.S. citizen in 1955. In 1964, he moved to Parma, Ohio, when Union Carbide transferred him to its Cleveland office, and he shuttled between there and Niagara Falls for the rest of his 30-year career with the company. He published numerous technical papers, earned several patents and traveled around the world to share his expertise. Mr. Vadla continued to travel extensively in retirement and helped his wife sell her pottery and weaving at art shows. They were annual exhibitors at the Lewiston Art Festival and, in Ohio, the Lakewood Art Festival, the Yankee Peddler Festival and the Bay Village Renaissance Festival. At age 78, he started using a Concept 2 rowing machine and was a top rowing competitor on the Internet, holding top position in the senior class for several years. He also was known for his baking. Having worked his way through college in a bakery, he regularly made Danish pastries, bread and rolls, which he shared with family, friends and neighbors through January. Surviving are his wife of 36 years, the former Reinhild Roenspiess; a son, Eric; a daughter, Karen; a stepson, Olaf; and four brothers and sisters in Norway. A memorial service will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 9 in First Unitarian Universalist Church, 639 Main St., Niagara Falls.
Ellen L. Strickland, June 6, 2012, of Grand Island, NY, loving wife, for 51 years, to Lee; mother of David (Tracie) and Terry (Clint) Martina; grandmother of Jessica, Kenny, Clint Jr. and Ben; great-grandmother of Hayden; sister of Claire and Elizabeth. Friends may call Sunday, June 10 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the LESTER H. WEDEKINDT, INC. FUNERAL HOME, 3290 Delaware Ave., where funeral services will be held Monday morning, June 11 at 11:00. Friends invited.
Martha R. Lewis, June 5, 2012, of Grand Island, wife of the late Robert B. Lewis; mother of Dwight A. (Sandy), R. Douglas (Debby), Mark D., Jonathan B. (Diane) Lewis and Christine L. (Mark) Hy; also survived by 21 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; daughter of the late Rufus and Ruby Reisdorph. Funeral services will be held Friday, June 8 at 11 AM at Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Interment will be in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, Houghton, NY.
Kenneth D. Lenz, June 1, 2012, of Grand Island, husband of Lori (Wagner) Lenz; father of Phillip, Matthew, Alexander, Zachary and Nicholas Lenz; brother of Susan (Yves) Pelletier of Rockville, MD and Paul (Susan) Lenz of Richmond, VA; also survived by several nieces and nephews; son of the late Kenneth O. and Genevieve Lenz; son in law of Gilberta and the late August Wagner. A memorial Mass will be celebrated Tuesday, June 5 at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand island. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to www.kenlenzbenefitfund.com. Coach Ken coached baseball, hockey, swimming and most importantly he was a coach in life for many children that played for him. He influenced and inspired many people to become a better person, and he has done so much more. Coach you will be missed greatly by everybody.
Richard "Dick" Byron, a long-time resident of Grand Island, NY, and of Lake Placid, Florida in recent years, entered into eternal life May 19, 2012. Dick was the beloved husband of the late June Byron, his wife of 60 years; father of Richard (Gail) Byron and the late Patrick Byron; grandfather of John, Terry and Lynette Byron, Michele Gast and Kelly (James) Petrie; great grandfather of Brianna and Camden Byron and dearest friend of Donna and the late Skip Oursler and John and Zdenka Gast. Dick dedicated his life to serving the community. He was a distinguished member of the U. S. Army/Air Force during WWII and earned several honors for his role as a tail gunner in a B17 during the war. He served as a member of the Grand Island Fire Company for over 50 years, having received numerous awards for his contributions. Dick was an avid hunter and proudly worked for Chevrolet until his retirement.
Joseph L. Muranyi, May 26, 2012, of Grand Island, husband of 63 years of Lois E. (Wanzer) Muranyi; father of Susan L. (Michael) Stark and Mark J. (Karen) Muranyi; grandfather of Mark J. Jr. and Christopher S. Muranyi; brother of Elizabeth (Dr. Robert) Frankenfeld, Nancy (James) Rohlfs, both of California and the late Edward (survived by wife Lorraine) Muranyi; son of the late Sophie and Joseph Muranyi, Sr. Friends may call Tuesday, May 29 FROM 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A memorial brunch will be held Wednesday, May 30 at 12 noon at River Oaks Golf Club, 100 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.
Edward J. O’Keefe, May 25, 2012, of Grand Island, husband of Mary (Lee) O'Keefe; father of J.R. (Meagan), Steven and Joseph O'Keefe, grandfather of Caitlin and Elizabeth; brother of Cecilia (James) Shanahan, Madonna (Philip) Long, Eugene (Nancy) O'Keefe, Dennis (Gail) O'Keefe, Trapper (Maryann) Pershyn, Donald (Karen) Pershyn, Dale (Dianne) Pershyn and the late Bill Pershyn; son of the late Marie and Edward O'Keefe, Sr.; lifelong friend of Ruthie and Gary Ennis; also survived by many nieces, nephews and friends. Friends may call Wednesday, May 30 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Thursday, May 31 at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Flowers gratefully declined. The O'Keefe family would like everyone to consider organ donation.
Mary A. (nee Burke) Bloom, May 22, 2012, of Tonawanda, NY. Beloved wife of the late William L. Bloom; loving mother of Karen (Timothy) McQuade, Jane (Tenso) Japadjief, Marcia (Paul) Fritschi, Lois (Donald) Keller; grandmother of Colleen, Theresa, Diane, Daniel, Brian, Jennifer and Carlos; great-grandmother of Alexis, Dominic and Jonathan; sister of Patricia (late W. Robert) Colley and Daniel (Maureen) Burke; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Thursday, May 24 from 7-9 and Friday, May 25 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the LESTER H. WEDEKINDT INC., FUNERAL HOME, 3290 Delaware Ave. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Andrew's Church, Saturday, May 26 at 9:15 AM. Mrs. Bloom was a member of the Ladies' Auxiliary of the K of C, Mary Star of the Sea Council, Grand Island, NY.
Carol A. (nee Grochowski) Woodfine, May 20, 2012, formerly of Grand Island, wife of John H. Woodfine; mother of Chantel Burns and the late John J. Woodfine; grandmother of Garrett and Colin Woodfine; daughter of the late Stanley and Anna Grochowski. Friends may call Thursday, May 24 from 2-4 and 7-8:30 PM followed by funeral services Thursday at 8:30 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined.
Mary Margaret (nee Stout) Hipp, 92, of Grand Island, May 14, 2012, wife of the late George W. Hipp; mother of Christian (Anne) of Grand Island, Robert (Judy) of Pflugerville, TX and Mary Jo of Woodbury, MN, grandmother of Adriane, Mark, Michael, Matthew, and Jennifer; great-grandmother of Elena, Maria, Peter, Christian, Lauren, Daniela and Brynn. A memorial service is planned for Saturday, August 4th at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island at 11:30 AM, calling Saturday before memorial service starting at 11 AM.
Barbara A. (nee Brunner) Haefner, 76, of Naples, FL and Grand Island, NY, January 13, 2012, survived by her husband of 54 years, Ralph, her daughters Kathleen (Joseph), Betty (Greg) and Nancy (Philip) and four grandchildren. A Memorial Service will be held Friday, May 25 at 9:15 AM at St. Andrew's RC Church, 1525 Sheridan Dr., Kenmore, NY.
Floydette (nee Uonites) Gannon, 68, of Pinellas Park, FL, formerly of Grand Island, NY, passed away on Sunday, May 13, 2012 after a battle with Lymphoma. Born on October 6, 1943, she was a longtime resident of Grand Island. She was the Daughter of the late Floyd Paul Uonites, and the Late Martha (nee Parker) Uonites. Flo as she was called by many attended Charlotte Sidway Elementary school. Flo worked for many Grand Island businesses including Charlie R’s and the former Bells Supermarket. In addition to her husband of thirty years, Robert Gannon, Flo was a loving mother to Karen (nee Fahrer) Geng, Peter (Judy) Fahrer, Teresa (Dan) Gormady, Donna Claus, and Fred (Kelly) Claus, all of Grand Island. Sister to Paula Jean (Ron) Tickner, Floyd “Skip” (Linda) Uonites, and the late Martha “Dolly” (Arnie) Dilliot. She was also step-mother to Joey Gannon, and Billy Gannon. In addition, Flo is survived by 17 grandchildren, two great grandchildren, and one more on the way, as well as many nieces and nephews. Memorial services will be held at Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island, NY 14072 on Saturday June 2, 2012 at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations in Flo’s name may be made to your local Hospice, or your local Relay for Life campaign, or online at www.Relayforlife.org.
Elizabeth (nee Burke) Turner, 85, of Grand Island, May 14, 2012, wife of the late Raymond F. Turner; mother of the late Mark (Lucielle) Turner, Stephen (Karen), Kim Turner and Joyce (Michael) George; sister of Barbara (the late Rocky) Missica and the late Beverley Derner; grandmother of Maria, Angela, Stephen, Nicholas, Jessica, Amanda, Colleen, Bridget and Mary; great-grandmother of three; also surviving are several nieces and nephews. Friends may call Thursday, May 17 from 4-8 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Mass of Christian burial will be offered Friday at 10 AM from St. Stephen's Parish, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. Mrs. Turner was a active member at St. Stephen's parish and the Golden Age Center.
Thomas James Hayes II - 79, of Boynton Beach, FL, formerly of Grand Island, NY, passed away on Sunday, May 13, 2012 in Bethesda Hospital. Born on November 2, 1932 in Tonawanda, NY, he was the son of the late Dr. Thomas James and Marion (Ackerman) Hayes. Tom graduated from Tonawanda High School and from Colgate University with a B.A. in Economics. He was captain of his high school swim team and also swam at Colgate and while serving in the Navy. He started his business career as Sales Manager of Tondisco Inc. He was retired from Taylor Hayes Inc. as a partner and had been owner/co-owner in numerous business ventures including Pool Town, Inc., Cannon International, Buffalo Boat and Motor, the Showboat Restaurant and Helf's Hot Dog Stand. Tom was a member of Anerald Boat Club of Tonawanda and the Tonawanda Elk's Club. Tom made the national news when he was eight years old for swimming across the Niagara River from the Ferry Landing at Ferry St. in Buffalo to the Bedell House on Grand Island. In addition to his beloved life partner of thirty-five years, Janice Becker, Mr. Hayes is survived by children, Lisa (Jeffrey) Taylor, Mark Hayes, Laura (Arthur) Gasser, Thomas J. Hayes III (T.J.) all of the Florida Keys, Bernard Becker of Calabasas, CA, Michael (Donna) Becker of Lancaster, NY and Michelle Ventress of Chicago, IL. He is also survived by grandchildren Sarah and Maclen Taylor, Nicholas, Nathan and Paris Gasser, Kara, Melissa, Lacey, David and Alana Becker and Zachary and Taylor Ventress. Brother Peter (Michelle) of Boynton Beach, FL and sister Mary Ann Hayes Stone of Grand Island and former wife Carole Hayes of Tavernier, FL. Memorial services will be held in Islamorada, FL on May 19, 2012 and in Tonawanda, NY on September 2, 2012. Memorial offerings may be made to Palm Beach County Hospice, 5300 East Avenue, West Palm Beach, FL 33407, or your local Hospice.
Clayton W. Clark - May 11, 2012, age 72 of Grand Island, NY, husband of Elaine (Insana) Clark; father of Linda (Edward) Foglia, Michael Clark, Karen Clark and Kathleen Kwiecinski; brother of Patricia (the late Ralph) Leach and Robert (Anne) Clark; grandfather of Jenna, Emily and Michael; also survived by several nieces and nephews. A Memorial Service will be held Wednesday at 10:00 AM from St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. If desired, memorials may be made to Wings Flight of Hope in memory of Clayton's name. Clayton was a member of the Grand Island Volunteer Fire Co. for 36 years. Arrangements by KAISER FUNERAL HOME.
Charlotte (nee Smith) Mrkall, - Passed away Monday, May 7, 2012 and went to her heavenly home. She was the most beautiful, loving and devoted wife of fifty-two years and the best friend of Norman J. Mrkall. She was the most adored, cherished and dearest mother of Brenda (Jennifer), Norman II (Lisa) and Cynthia Ann. She absolutely loved and adored her beautiful granddaughters, Maisie Ann and Marissa Ann, Jennifer Jr. and Alexis (who fondly referred to her as Grandma "Yikes"). This was a beautiful marriage and a wonderful family. Charlotte retired from M&T Bank, having worked there in the late 1950s and early 1960s. She then was a stay-at-home mom for eighteen years to raise three children. She returned to M&T in 1980 and retired in 1991. Charlotte was also a former member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Grand Island Fire Company. Her husband, Norm, says she was the rock of patience and tolerance, while the fire company advanced and grew. She was the daughter of the late Gladys D. Smith, a founder and first director of the Grand Island Senior Citizen Center. Gladys was also instrumental in getting the first senior citizen housing on Grand Island. Charlotte was also the sister of Nelson (Chris), Georgia, Gene (Cindy) and the late Lawrence Smith. She was the sister-in-law to Geraldine Mrkall Serba and aunt to many nieces and nephews. Friends and relatives are invited to attend a Memorial Mass at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island Saturday, May 12 at 10 AM. In lieu of flowers memorials in Charlotte's memory can be made to Hospice Buffalo.
Mary Agnes (nee Dolan) Farrell, - May 6, 2012, age 86, beloved wife of the late James D. Farrell; dear mother of Mary Margaret (Donald) Gilbert, Eileen (Gary) Kelchlin, Paul (Elaine), James (Luisa), Peter Farrell and Patricia (Thomas) Blakey; dear grandmother of Todd (Vanessa), Alanna, Elise, Mireia (James), Amanda, Samantha, Paige, Peter Jr. and Matthew; great-grandmother of Colton James; sister of Margaret Dolan; twin sister of the late Gerard (Sylvia), John, William, Thomas (Ruth) Dolan and Patricia Kelly; also survived by many nieces and nephews. There will be no prior visitation. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, May 12 at 11:30 AM at St. Stephen's RC Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. Friends invited. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Mrs. Farrell's memory to Beechwood Continuing Care, 2235 Millersport Hwy., Getzville, NY 14068. Share your condolences at www.AMIGONE.com
William "Bill" Barto, - 70, of Grand Island, NY, passed away on Monday, May 7, 2012, in Sister's of Charity Hospital. Born on July 14, 1941 in Irvona, PA, he was the son of the late James Edward and Elizabeth (Bungo) Barto. On May 13, 1967, Mr. Barto married the former Joan Stenton in Niagara Falls, NY. For thirty-four years, Bill was employed by Robert-James Sales, Inc. in Buffalo, NY and retired as Executive Vice President in the end of 2007. Mr. Barto was an avid hunter and enjoyed shooting sporting clays and skeet every Sunday at the North Forest Rod and Gun Club. In addition to his beloved wife of over forty-four years, Mr. Barto is survived by two children, Bill (Allison) Barto of Clarence Center, NY and Jen (Joe) Casullo of Pendleton, NY; four grandchildren, Billy, Ella, Skylar and Brooke; one brother, James Edward (Peggy Jean) Barto, II of Texas; one aunt and many nieces, nephews and cousins. The family will be present to receive friends on Thursday, May 10 from 3-8 PM in the Chapel of OTTO REDANZ FUNERAL HOME, 2215 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY (297-9007) where a funeral service will be held on Friday, May 11th at 10 AM. Entombment will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Lewiston, NY. If desired, memorial offerings may be made to the American Diabetes Association , P.O. Box 11454, Alexandria, VA 22312. To leave a personal message for the family, please visit www.ottoredanz.com
Richard J. Rich Arsenault, - lost his life-long battle with Cystic Fibrosis April 12, 2012 in Tucson, Arizona. Survived by parents, Robert J. and Mary Ann; brother Ross (Rhonda); nephews Robert and Ryan Arsenault; also survived by fiancee' Paula Mosher (son, Evan Mosher). Interment will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery on Saturday, May 19, 2012. Relatives and friends are invited. Please meet at the parking lot of The Mt. Olivet Office, 4000 Elmwood Ave., Kenmore, NY at 10:45 AM.
Marie S. (nee Krezmien) McIntosh - May 4, 2012 of Springville, NY formerly of Grand Island, NY, wife of Lloyd McIntosh; mother of Francis (Debbie) McIntosh, Ann Marie (Donald) Galusha and Mark McIntosh; also survived by six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; sister of Mark (late Norma) and the late Stanley, Lawrence, Francis, Charles and Thomas Krezmien; sister-in-law of Betty, Joan, Jean, Sue and the late Roseanne Krezmien. Friends may call Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at the SMITH-WEISMANTEL FUNERAL HOME, 271 E. Main St., Springville, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday at 11:00 o'clock from St. Aloysius Church, Springville, NY. Online register: www.smithweismantelfuneralhome.com
Joan D. (nee Wagonblott) Pirson, - of Grand Island, entered into rest May 2, 2012, devoted mother of Deborah, Timothy and Rodney Pirson; loving daughter of the late Clarence and Alma (nee Steege) Wagonblott; dear sister of Norbert (late Doris) Wagonblott, Norma Altman, Alma (late Kenneth, late Budd) Bodden, Clarence "Butch" (Margaret) Wagonblott and the late Robert, Donald, Allen, Raymond and Ralph Wagonblott; also survived by family and friends. Relatives and friends may visit the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northtowns Chapel), 885 Niagara Falls Blvd., near Eggert/Sheridan Dr., on Tuesday, May 8 from 3-5 PM for a gathering in Joan's memory. Online condolences may be made at www.lombardofuneralhome.com
Jerry Russo, April 29, 2012, age 55, of Grand Island, NY, passed away suddenly at his home Sunday morning. Jerry was born on September 8, 1956 in Caivano, Italy and came to live in the United States after the death of his mother, Anna. He settled with his family in Liverpool, NY where he graduated from Liverpool High School in 1976. Jerry worked at Syracuse China as well as Hughes Aircraft in California before going to work at GM Powertrain in Tonawanda, NY, where he was employed for over 28 years. A dedicated family man, fun-loving and thoughtful, Jerry was an avid sportsman, gun collector as well as a proud member of the NRA. In his spare time he could be found with his family, enjoying a ride on his motorcycle, or in the company of his beloved dogs, Rex and Mickey. His kind nature and sense of humor will be greatly missed. Jerry is preceded in death by his parents, Anna Schiancata Russo and Isacco Russo; step-mother, Margaret Tassone-Russo; step-brother, Sam Tassone; nephew, Issaco Russo; and niece, Anna Young. He is survived by his wife, Anna (D'Elia) of Trento, Italy; his children, Stephanie, Anna, and Anthony, all of Grand Island, NY; brothers and sisters, Antonio (Guiseppina), Carmine (Melina), Raffaella (Sossio) Mazzarella, and Fortunato, all of Syracuse; John, Antoinietta (Nicola) Affinito of Liverpool, Mario (Jill) Russo of Baldwinsville; step-sisters, Rose (George) Augustinos and Mary (Jerry) Connock, both of Liverpool; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Funeral services will be conducted Saturday, May 5 at 11:15 A.M. at FARONE & SON FUNERAL HOME and 12 Noon at Our Lady of Pompei/St. Peter Church where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Entombment will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery Mausoleum. Calling hours will be held on Friday, May 4 from 4-7 PM at the funeral home, 1500 Park Street, Syracuse. Condolences may be offered at www.faroneandson.com.
Jean Jerge, 86, of Grand Island, died May 1, 2012, in the company of loved ones. He was a proud WWII Navy veteran. He is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Mary Lou (Rohrback) Jerge; his son, Jon (Denise) Jerge; his daughter, Jeanne (Michael) Percival; his four grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Visitation is 3 - 8 pm on Friday, May 4 at Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A memorial service will be held at 10 AM on Saturday, May 5 at St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church, Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to Hospice Buffalo, 225 Como Park Blvd, Cheektowaga, NY 14227.
Valentina M. "Val" (nee Calvano) Valore, 92, of Grand Island, formerly of Niagara Falls, Monday April 23, 2012, daughter of the late Anthony and Virginia (Curcio) Calvano; beloved wife of the late Joseph Valore; loving mother of Philip A. (fiance; Cheryl Agnello) Valore of Grand Island; beloved grandmother of Philip J. Valore and late infant Jason Alan Valore; loving sister of the late Joseph (late Catherine) Calvano, late John (Grace of Grand Island) Calvano, late Julio (Norma of Niagara Falls) Calvano; aunt of Virginia (Savino) Nanula of Grand Island, Laurie (Calvano) McGuirk of Michigan, Christopher (Pamela) Calvano, Nikki Valore, Philip Marra all of Niagara Falls, late Peter Marra; great-aunt of Dr. James (Elizabeth) Mezhir of Iowa, John (Jennifer) Mezhir of Grand Island, Caitlin Lynas of Virginia, Carmen Marra of Niagara Falls, NY; also survived by several other nieces, nephews and cousins. Visitation Friday, April 27 from 3-7 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY, where services begin Saturday, April 28 at 11:15 AM and at 12 Noon at Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph Parish at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, 27th St. and Independence Ave, Niagara Falls. Entombment in St. Joseph Cemetery, Niagara Falls. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Wings Flights of Hope, Inc., PO Box 872, Orchard Park, NY 14127 or www.wingsflight.org Online guest register www.mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com
Marcella S. (nee Schuppenhauer) Williams, - April 24, 2012, of Grand Island, wife of 68 years of Gordon A. Williams; mother of Jacqueline (Russell) Galbo, Sharon (Douglas) Lumb and Cynthia Williams; grandmother of Jennifer (Mark) Przybylski, Steven (Missy) Lumb and Megan (Edgar) Tuero; great-grandmother of Nichaols, Daniel and Alexander Przybylski and William Lumb; sister of Harry (Patricia) Schuppenhauer. Funeral services will be private. Mrs. Williams was a "Rosie The Riveter" at the Bell Plant in Buffalo during WW II while her husband was a prisoner of war in Germany. She will be sorely missed by all her family.
Ann R. Georgeson, - April 19, 2012, of Grand Island, wife of the late James P. Georgeson; mother of Van P. Georgeson and Andrea (Darryl) Krupczyk, both of Grand Island and James L. (Michele) Georgeson of Apex, NC; grandmother of Erin L., James M. and Alexis R. Georgeson. Friends may call Monday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday, April 24 at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church, Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Alzheimer's Association of WNY or St. Stephen's Church.
Gary Gene Glasgow, 66, of Palmetto, died April 10, 2012. He is survived by his wife, Susan; daughters, Deanna (Mike) Sabatino, Melanee (John) Barber; brother; Lloyd (Butch); grandchildren, Sheryl (Tyler) Luff, Sammy Diaz, Gary Barringer, Sean Barber, Michaelena and Dean Sabatino. Also survived by great grandchildren; Emma Luff and Tobias Diaz, several nieces and nephews and many, many friends. Visitation will take place at Groover Funeral Home at Mansion Memorial Park 2 p.m. Saturday, April 14, 2012, with a celebration of life service to follow at 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations to Ellenton Hos-pice will be greatly appreciated. Read more here: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/bradenton/obituary.aspx?n=gary-gene-glasgow&pid=156954648&fhid=8462#storylink=cpy
Adam N. Fischer, of Grand Island, NY, entered into eternal rest April 17, 2012, father of Barbara (Brett) Blose, Peggy Molnar, Thomas and Erich (Lindy) Fischer; grandfather of nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Friends may call Thursday, April 19 from from 4-8 PM at the STEPHAN-BURNS FUNERAL HOME INC., 266 East St. at Austin, where services will be held Friday at 11 AM. Burial Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to the Hospice Foundation of Buffalo.
Helmut R. Stinner, April 17, 2012, of Grand Island, husband of Kathi (Stickl) Stinner; father of Stephan (Deanna) Stinner, Lisa (Jon) Wozniak and Paulette (Jason) Wolski; grandfather of Emilie Stinner, Jonathan and Joshua Wozniak, Thomas and Matilyn Wolski; brother of Theodor (Martha) Stinner and Elizabeth (Henry) Ochs. Friends may call Thursday, April 19 from 6-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, where funeral services will be held Friday at 11 AM.
Everett C. Reinauer, April 13, 2012, of Grand Island, husband of the late Laura Jane Reinauer; father of Karyl (Joanne) and Ronald (Melina) Reinauer; grandfather of Jessica Reinauer, Aliza Adanza and Mark Reinauer; great-grandfather of Henry Owen; brother of Lawrence Reinauer. Funeral Services will be private, Mr. Reinauer was a veteran of the US Army Air Force serving during WW II, in the Air Force Reserves from 1958 to 1977 and worked with the 914th Air Reserve Group in Niagara Falls until 1977.
Dorothy J. Borden, April 12, 2012, of Grand Island, age 78, beloved wife of the late Paul Borden; devoted mother of Ed (Sue) Borden of Atlanta, Bert (Carol) Borden and Beth (Patrick) Neary, both of Grand Island, and the late Ron Borden; loving grandmother of Stephen, Corey, Robert and Christina Borden, Kevin and Robin Neary. Family will be present Sunday, April 15 from 6-8 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral Services and burial will be in Reynoldsville, PA. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo, 225 Como Park Blvd., Cheektowaga 14227.
Mary E. (Wolfe) Carminati, 90, of Grand Island, April 11, 2012, born November 3, 1921 in Brooklyn, NY; daughter of the late William and Mavis Wolfe Campbell; mother of Bernadette (LeRoy) Franklin of Chandler, AZ, Patricia (late William) Weeks of Tampa FL and W. David (Wendy Truesdale) Carminati Jr. of Grand Island; also survived by seven grandchildren and two great- grandchildren. A Memorial mass and celebration of her life will be held, in her memory, for friends and family at a later date. Donations may be made to Hospice Buffalo or St. Stephen's Church, Grand Island. She will be dearly missed and loved forever.
Catherine Leta Weiss, was born February 7, 1952 in Canada to William and Mary Gibson and passed away on April 8, 2012 in Conroe, Texas. She was a teacher in Willis Independent School District for 20 years and was a teacher mentor. Catherine is survived by her loving husband of 37 years, Lee Weiss of Conroe; daughter, Shelby Lackey and husband Tim of Conroe; son, Lee Weiss, II and Stephanie Robinson of Conroe; mother, Mary Gibson of Kenmore, New York; sisters, Marjorie McCauley and Quinten Cooper of Spring, Mary Lynn Martin and husband Bill and Carol McCredy and husband Dale all of Grand Island, NY; William Gibson and wife Cindy of Grand Island, NY; grandchildren, Kassidy and Alec Lackey. Numerous other relatives and friends also survive. You are invited to leave written messages and condolences for the family on our website at www.cashnerconroe.com.
Jacquelyn Marie Pauley, June 15, 1938-March 29, 2012, age 74. Jackie, once a longtime Grand Island resident, passed away suddenly in the Village of Kenmore, N.Y. Jackie volunteered extensively with the Buffalo Chapter of NAMI. It was there that she received The Overcomers Achievement Award. Jackie enjoyed shopping, bingo and spending time with her grandchildren. She is survived by her four children: Raymond W. Pauley Jr., Scott E. Pauley, Lisa J. McLeod (Donald), Jill H. Proctor (Thomas). Also survived by grandchildren Chancellor and Jessica Pauley, Kevin Pauley and Michelle Bates, Andrew, Jennifer, Sarah and Kimberly McLeod, Ryan and Lindsay Proctor, and a great grandchild, Carter Pauley (Kevin Pauley). Jackie is also survived by her two sisters, Nancy Ingram and Carole Marks and is preeceased by a brother, the late Jerry Waters.
A service to honor her memory will be held at Island United Presbyterian Church of Grand Island on April 14th at 2 p.m..
Marjorie (nee Riedel) Tetreault, April 1, 2012, born June 16, 1934, of Grand Island, devoted wife, mother, sister, friend, teacher, caregiver. Survivors include her husband Tom, daughter Lynn (Duane) Eich, son Scott (Kim), sister Betty Raepple, and five grandsons. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, April 7th at 11AM at Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Trinity United Methodist (Grand Island) Memorial Fund or Niagara Hospice (http://www.niagarahospice.org/). Mrs. Tetreault graduated from Kenmore West High School and State University College at Buffalo with a Master's Degree in Education. She was a Home Economics teacher at Grand Island High and Middle Schools, 1970s - 1990s.
Gwendolyn (nee Rindfleisch) Sommer, March 31, 2012, of Grand Island, beloved wife of the late Raymond Richard Sommer Sr.; devoted mother of Raymond (Patrice), Paul (Adele) Sommer and Karen (James) Schwindler; loving grandmother of Lauren, Jennifer, Peter, Nicole, Matthew, Luke and Raymond; great-grandmother of Haley, Daniel, Katlyn, Robert, Claire, Tiffany, Michael and Zoey; also survived by many sisters, nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Timothy Lutheran Church, 1453 Staley Rd., Grand Island, NY 14072 where funeral services will be held Monday, April 2 at 10:30 AM.
Joseph P. Falbo, 84, passed away on Saturday, March 24, 2012. Joe was predeceased by his wife of 51 years, Catherine "Kay" Miller. Joe leaves daughters, Patricia Falbo-Williams (Mr. Lynn Williams) of Grand Island, Betty of Niagara Falls and son, James (Susan Dunlap) of Pottstown, PA. He was a devoted grandfather to Dominic (Rachel Buckmaster) of Dallas, Kristie of Harrisburg, PA and Nathaniel of Houston. He also leaves sister-in-law, Delphine Falbo and nieces, Laura Briggs, Nancy Dunlap and Danielle (Scott) Thomas, all of Niagara Falls; and friends, Frank Jacobs and family (North Tonawanda), Ron Ritter and family (Friendship) and Jack Still (Kenmore). Joe was the son of Joseph J. and Myrtle Barr Falbo, both of whom passed away in 1998, and was also predeceased by brothers, Vincent and Martin. The family will be present to receive friends on Thursday, March 29 from 4-6 PM in the Chapel of OTTO REDANZ FUNERAL HOME, 2215 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY (297-9007) where a Memorial Service will follow visitation at 6:00 PM. Donations may be made in Joe's name to the American Heart Association , 20 Northpointe Pkwy. #130, Amherst, NY 14228 or the American Cancer Society , 197 Summer Street, Buffalo, NY 14222. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting us at www.ottoredanz.com
Joseph S. Edel, Jr. March 16, 2012, of Grand Island, husband of Tina L. (Ferguson) Edel; father of Joseph D., Maria C. and Daniel S. Edel; son of Joseph and Nancy Edel, Sr.; brother of Jeffrey Edel; son-in-law of Catherine Ferguson; brother-in-law of Scott (Laurene) Ferguson; uncle of Joseph, John, Stephen and Robert. Friends may call Sunday from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, March 19 at 10 AM from St. Stephen's R.C. Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island.
Joanne McKnight Hartman, of Haines City Florida, age 81, passed away February 29, 2012 of heart failure, after a long illness. Born March 9, 1930 in Buffalo, NY, she was a Florida resident for 10 years and a Grand Island, NY resident for 35 years. She was a member of Grand Island's St. Stephen's Catholic Church, a choir member, lector and Eucharist Minister. Volunteering for many years at the Grand Island Public Library, Joanne also volunteered as a "Pink Lady" twice a week for 10 years at Kenmore Mercy Hospital. Mrs. Hartman taught 4th grade for the Diocese of Buffalo. A talented sticher and knitter, she was a 25-year member of The Embroiderers' Guild of America, winning many ribbons for her needlework at the Erie County Fair, New York State Fair and Florida State Fair. Retired as librarian in the City of Eagle Lake, Florida at the age of 76; member of St. Ann's Catholic Church, Haines City, Florida. She was also an avid bridge player. Mrs. Hartman is survived by her devoted husband of more than 61 years, Richard H. Hartman; children Linda Hartman, Rick Hartman, Mary (Mer) Money and Robert Hartman; 9 grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren and many loving friends. A memorial service will be held at the 10:00am Mass in St. Ann's Catholic Church, 1311 Robinson Dr. Haines City on Sunday March 4. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to assist funeral arrangements.
Elizabeth A. "Betty" (nee Anderson) Brinda, March 7, 2012 at age 85. Betty died peacefully and has joined her beloved husband, the late John E. Brinda. Devoted mother of James Sharpe (Cindy), Beverly Kinney, John Sharpe (Debbie), Michael Sharpe, Raymond Sharpe (Catherine), Lori Brinda (Max Miller), Sean Brinda (Alisa) and the late Joanna Sharpe. Loving Grandmother of Wayne Earle Kinney, John Paul Sharpe, Derek Sharpe, Eric Sharpe, Briana Sharpe, Josh Miller, Savannah Miller; two great-grandchildren, Sebastian Kinney & Grant Kinney; and adored kitty, Ziva. Family will be present Monday, March 12 from 4-8 PM at KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, where funeral services will be held Tuesday, March 13 at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, donations to PROI Foundation for cancer research (3915 West River Rd. G.I. 14072) or the American Lung Association , contact www.lung.org in Betty Brinda's name.
Harry F. Gibbs Sr., - March 10, 2012, of Grand Island, husband of Judith (Mallette) Gibbs; father of Harry F. Gibbs Jr., Michael (Sally) Gibbs and Melissa (Tom) Makowski; also survived by two grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Friends may call Wednesday, March 14 from 4-8 PM followed by memorial services Wednesday at 8 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd, Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined.
Everett P. McQuaid, March 3, 2012, of Grand Island, survived by his children Joan (Frank) Faria, Dana (Marian) McQuaid, Paul McQuaid and Barbara (David) Wynkoop; also survived by his brother, Robert, 12 grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and special friends Alma and Charlie. Friends may call Saturday, March 10 from 3-4 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, followed by memorial services Saturday at 4 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association.
Paula E. (nee Van-Den-Weygaert) Amand, March 5, 2012; of Grand island; wife of the late Adolphe Amand; mother of Ronald Amand and Monique (Thomas) Corrao; grandmother of Nicolette, Tommy, Jenna and Jacob Corrao; sister of Jenny (the late Gene) VanDaele and Marie-Louise (Tony) Vota; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Friday, March 9 from 4-7 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, March 10 at 11:30 AM at St. Stephen's Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.
Charles M. Lalloz Jr., of Tonawanda. Entered into rest February 29, 2012; beloved husband of Charlotte M. (nee Benns) Lalloz; devoted father of Michele (Mike) Garbowski and Nicole Quinn; cherished grandfather of three grandchildren; loving son of the late Charles and Della (nee LaDuca) Lalloz, Sr.; dear brother of Yvonne (James) Brady; also survived by relatives and friends. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a memorial service at Nash Road Free Methodist Church, 958 Nash Rd., North Tonawanda on Saturday, March 3 at 2:00 PM. Online condolences may be made at www.lombardofuneralhome.com
June A. Marble, March 2, 2012, of Grand Island; wife of the late Harold O. Marble; mother of Gail (Jeffrey) Morgan, Robert (Carolyn) and David (Janet) Marble; also survived by four grandchildren, three stepgrandchildren and three great-grandsons; dear friend of Edward Maselli; sister of the late Edward Murphy, Catherine Harrison, Rose Eddy and Shirley Clark. Friends may call Sunday, March 4 from 2-5 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd, Grand Island where funeral services will be held Monday, March 5 at 10:15 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Grand Island Golden Age Center.
Susan Beth (Williams) Jackson, 68, formerly of Syracuse, Grand Island and Endicott, New York, beloved wife and mother, died unexpectedly in Davenport, Florida on February 15, 2012. She was predeceased by her parents, J. Sheldon and Helen Williams of Syracuse, her father-in-law, Harry L. Jackson of Endwell. Susan is survived by her devoted husband of 47 years, Richard "Rick" Jackson, her loving daughter, Amanda Jackson, both of Davenport; mother-in-law Betty (Jackson) Harrington of Maine, NY; sisters-in-law, Lisa Collins (Douglas) Amherst, NY; Vickie Maxon, Endwell; brother-in-law, Gary Jackson (Colleen) llion, NY; nephews, a niece and cousins. Sue was an employee of St. Timothy's Lutheran Church Childcare (Grand Island) and a former member of St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church (Grand Island) where she was an active participant in its ministries, especially the women's fellowship. Memorial services are pending. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to www.autismgym.org
Gary R. Burnworth, of Sandy Lake, PA was taken home to his Savior, Jesus on Wednesday, Feb 8, 2012. He is survived by his wife Karen Burnworth. Also surviving are his beloved daughters, Kimberly Walker-Goncalves wife of Zan Goncalves, children M. Stephen Walker and Serafina Walker of Greenfield, Mass. and Lisa Daniels, children Gareth Solbeck, Eira Solbeck, and Rayna Solbeck, of New Hampshire. Gary was a son of Charles R. Burnworth, who is now deceased and Hazel M. Burnworth, of Houston Texas. His sibling are Charlotte wife of Rob McQuown, Sara Jones , and Dorris Burnworth of Houston. Cynthia wife of Robert Hillock Grand Island, N.Y. Christopher Burnworth husband of Susan, Saucier, Miss. He is also survived by nephews and nieces, Robert, Walter, Karen, Chelsea and Michael Hillock all New York.. Jennifer Jones Slamin and son Michael, Maine. Kerry, Michael McQuown, Kim Dunaway, and Jared Duhon all Houston Tx.. Gregg husband of Tracey Trew children Bryan and Emily Penna. He was the former director of Valley Ambulance and Quaker Valley Ambulance services. Gary was an active member of New Lebanon Community Church. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions be made to New Lebanon Community Church "Burnworth Ministry Center" Building Fund, in care of New Lebanon Community Church, 4166 Mercer St. Sandy Lake, Pa 16145
Charles H. Warner, of Grand Island, February 26, 2012, former husband of Joan Babin Warner; dear father of Ronald (Francine) Warner and the late Michael C. Warner; loving grandfather of Christina and Ronald Warner Jr.; brother of Mary Warner; also survived by nieces and nephews; close friend of George and Loretta Troester along with Four Score Members (Charlie's Angels) of Lancaster Speedway. Friends may call at D. LAWRENCE GINNANE FUNERAL HOME, 3215 Delaware Ave., Kenmore, Thursday, March 1 from 3-7 PM, when Funeral Service will commence. Interment at 1 p.m. Monday, March 5 in Acacia Park Cemetery. Memorials to Erie County SPCA, 205 Ensminger Rd., Tonawanda, NY 14150, where he was avid volunteer, are preferred. Charles was a retired Buffalo Fireman and member of Grand Island Moose Lodge No. 180. www.ginnanefuneralhome.com.
Richard C. Schenk, 66, of Grand Island, NY, Wednesday, February 22, 2012, husband of Karen J. (nee Young) Schenk; father of Laura (Carmen) Pace, and Jeffrey Schenk; stepfather of Shawn Husvar, grandfather of Nicholas and Madalyn Pace; brother of the late Robert Schenk; brother-in-law of Marianne (late Robert) Schenk; son of the late Edward P. and Mary C. (Leining) Schenk, Jr.; also survived by nieces and nephews. Family will be present on Friday, Feb. 24th only from 6-8 PM at JOHN O. ROTH FUNERAL HOME, INC., 25 William St. (Between Morgan and Broad Sts), City of Tonawanda, where a Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, February 25, at 10 AM. Private burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association , 2805 Wehrle Dr., Ste 6, Buffalo, NY 14221.
Michael G. Kargatis Sr., of Grand Island, NY, transitioned into eternal life on Wednesday, February 22, 2012. Michael was 71 years old. He is survived by his life-long love and beloved wife of over 50 years, Rose Ann (Curtis) Kargatis; one son, Michael (Sharon) Kargatis, Jr.; two daughters, Lisa (William) Scalzo and Kelly (James) Pullano; one brother, Steven (Marsha) Kargatis and one sister, Karen (late Michael) Gigliotti. Michael is also survived by nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his parents, Emanuel and Irene Kargatis; one sister, Catherine and one brother, Emanuel, Jr. The family will be present to receive friends on Thursday, February 23 from 7-9 PM and on Friday, February 24 from 2-4 and 6-8 PM in St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church, 1073 Saunders Settlement Road, Niagara Falls, NY, where a funeral service will be held on Saturday, February 25th at 10:00 AM with the Very Rev. Paul Solberg officiating. Interment will follow in Riverdale Cemetery, Lewiston, NY. A Trisagion Prayer Service will be held in the church on Thursday at 8:00 PM and on Friday at 7:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church, 1073 Saunders Settlement Road, Niagara Falls, NY 14305. Arrangements are under the direction of the OTTO REDANZ FUNERAL HOME, 2215 Military Rd., Niagara Falls, NY (297-9007). Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting us at www.ottoredanz.com
James W. Ritzenthaler, of Grand Island, February 17, 2012. Beloved husband of 39 years to Katherine Tubbs Ritzenthaler; dear father of Jessica M. and Rachel L. Ritzenthaler; loving grandfather of Cameron Mattice; brother of Patricia (late Louis) Wunsch, Judith (Joseph) Atherton; also survived by nieces and nephews. Friends may call at D. LAWRENCE GINNANE FUNERAL HOME 3215 Delaware Ave. Kenmore Monday, February 20 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM for a time of remembrance. Funeral service for the family is private. Online condolences to www.ginnanefuneralhome.com
Marilyn H. (Radder-Livingston) Sprague (71) of Garwoods, NY went home to be with the Lord on February 14, 2012 at her home, following a lengthy battle with cancer. She was raised on Grand Island, the daughter of the late Rollie G. Radder and Helen B. (Hy) Radder of Franklin, NC, who survives. She is survived by her sisters; Carole S. Murphy of Franklin, NC, Janet B. (Fred) Mumm of Grand Island, NY and Susan J. Radder also of Franklin, NC. In addition she is survived by her children; Julie (Greg) Swain, Jay (Noel) Livingston, Jeff (Pam) Livingston all of Canaseraga, NY and Jody Schue of Houghton, NY. She dearly loved her grandchildren; Jeremy (Angela) Swain, Amber (Paul) Kehoe, Eric Swain, Dillon Swain, Jared (Laura) Pierce, Chad Pierce, Aaron Schue, Kristen Livingston, Caleb Livingston and 6 great-grandsons. Marilyn was very active in her church. She enjoyed reading, bird watching, and campfires with her family. She retired from Pioneer Central High School after many years as a teacher’s aide in the Special Education Dept. A celebration of her life will be held at Birdsall Community Church, County Rd. 16, Birdsall NY at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday Feb. 25, 2012 followed by an Open House at her home. Donations may be made to Nicholas H. Noyes Memorial Hospital Infusion Center, Dansville, NY or to Birdsall Community Church c/o Jay Livingston, 9647 Co. Rd. 15B, Canaseraga, NY 14822.
LOCKPORT James H. Pax, passed away on February 14, 2012 in Millard Fillmore Gates Circle, Buffalo. Born on October 24, 1937 in Buffalo, he was the son of John and Beatrice (Young) Pax. James graduated from Buffalo State College and served in the Navy and Coast Guard and was a reservist. He worked as a sales engineer for Armco Steel. James was a Town Councilman for the Town of Grand Island from 1972 to 1991. He was then elected as the Supervisor Town of Grand Island from 1992 to 1997. He was awarded the Citizen of the Year for Government in 1986. James was also a member of the Grand Island Republican Committee, coached baseball and was very active in scouting, earning his Eagle Scout and remained active as an adult. He was a member of St. Stephens Church on Grand Island where he was the head usher and took care of Catholic Charities before moving to Lockport in 2001, where he was a member of St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church. James enjoyed skiing, boating, fishing, traveling, carpentry and was an avid Bills fan. James is survived by his wife of ten years, Susan (Pless) Pax of Lockport; father of James (Karen) Pax, Jeffrey (Sherly), Jacqueline (Joseph) Valente, and Jason (Lori) Pax; step-father of Brenda Angelucci, Anita (Brian) Humphreys, and Alycia (Michael) Tomaino; grandfather of nine; brother of John (Nancy) Pax; several nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends may call on Saturday, February 18 from 2-5 PM and on Sunday, February 19 from 2-6 PM in Prudden & Kandt Funeral Home, 242 Genesee St., Lockport. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, February 19 at 10 AM in St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church, 5 Saxton St., Lockport. See Buffalo News Obituary.
Robert W. Sieben, February 15, 2012, of Grand Island; dearest friend of Joan Raab and family, Robert and Darlene O'Keeffe and family; son of the late William and Rose Sieben. Friends may call Friday 2-4 & 7-8:30 PM followed by funeral services Friday at 8:30 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Graveside services will be held Saturday, Feb. 18 at 10 AM at Resurrection Chapel Mausoleum, Mount Olivet Cemetery, Tonawanda. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Riviera Theatre Organ Fund, 67 Webster St., North Tonawanda, NY 14120. Mr. Sieben was a volunteer at the Riviera Theatre, a founding member of the Allegheny State Park Historical Society, an avid RC modeler and member of the Niagara Sunday Flyers, the Flying Aces and the Buffalo Model Boat Club.
Betsy Morris Waters, 81 of Gothenburg, NE, formerly of Grand Island, NY; died on Feb. 11, 2012 of lung Cancer at Great Plains Regional Medical Center in North Platte, NE. Mrs. Waters was born in Parkersburg, WV and leaves a son, William Kent of Winchester, ID; two daughters, Susan Leigh Seiler of Hollywood, FL; and Mary Elizabeth “Becky” Cudzilo of Brady, NE; and two granddaughters, Savannah Irene Cudzilo and Piper C'Aria Dawn Cudzilo, also of Brady, NE. Services will be private. Donations may be sent to the Building Fund of Estero United Methodist Church, P0 Box 68, Estero, FL 33928 or to the Endowment Fund of Trinity United Methodist Church, P0 Box 38, Grand Island, NY 14072
Michael J. Fahey, February 8, 2012, of Grand Island, a retired Buffalo police officer. See Buffalo News Obituary.
Joan M. "Pinky" (nee Anderson) Dekdebrun, of Kenmore, entered into rest February 6, 2012; beloved wife of William A. Dekdebrun; devoted mother of Judith (Charles) Reed and William (Tracy) Dekdebrun; cherished grandmother of Danielle, Katie, Kerri, Hannah, Tripp and Joshua; fond great-grandmother of Brody; loving daughter of the late Harry and Lavina (Trautman) Anderson; dear sister of Karen (Donald) Webb and the late Norma Kenny, Buzz Anderson, Gloria Pagels and Russell Anderson; 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 Thursday from 2-4 and 7-9 PM, where funeral service will be held on Friday morning at 9 o'clock. Interment White Chapel Memorial Park. Online condolences may be made at www.lombardofuneralhome.com.
Norman "Mike" Meyer, January 29, 2012, of Tonawanda, husband of Doris "Dodie" (Dekdebrun) Meyer; father of Michael (Nancy) Meyer, Diane (Donald) Schwartz and Susan (Donald) Gallagher; grandfather of Kelli Schwartz, Traci (Joe) Leaver, Heather (Eric) Fraser, Brett Meyer, Corey (Sadie) and Baylee Gallagher; great-grandfather of Andrew Fraser, Chase Leaver and Emilia Norton; brother of the late Willard and Richard Meyer. Friends may call Thursday, Feb. 2 from 3-8 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Memorial services will be held Friday, Feb. 3 at 10 AM at Trinity United Methodist Church, Grand Island. Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association or Hospice Buffalo. See Complete Obituary
Constance (nee Higgs) Reitmulder, 79, of the Town of Tonawanda, died Thursday, January 26, 2012 at home, after a long illness. Born in London, England, she was the daughter of the late Frederick and Hilda (nee Flexon) Higgs and had been a resident of Grand Island for the greater part of her life before residing in the Town of Niagara from 1989 until 2007. She was an accomplished seamstress and enjoyed making clothing. Mrs. Reitmulder enjoyed the companionship and activities of the Niagara Falls Senior Citizens group and traveling with her late husband and the Niagara Falls Senior Citizens. She was the wife of the late Eugene Reitmulder, who died in 1996, and sister of the late Dennis Higgs. She is survived by her three daughters, Yvonne (Michael) Oliver of the Town of Tonawanda, Linda (Mark) Wyno of Niagara Falls, NY, and Terry (Lenny) Hill of Bovey, Minnesota; a sister, Margaret Smith of Niagara Falls, NY; and a brother, John Higgs of England. Also surviving are 6 grandchildren, Kaylee Oliver, Krista Ackerson, Jill Katechis, Richard Ackerson, Gabe Hill, and Colton Hill; 7 great-grandchildren, Haley Glenn, Desiree Farley, Victoria Martin, Anastasia Ackerson, Maria Katechis, Viki Katechis, and Dominic Hill; and many nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends from Noon - 3 PM on Sunday (Jan. 29) only at the Hamp Funeral Home, Inc., 37 Adam Street at Seymour, Tonawanda, where memorial services will be held at 3 PM on Sunday; the Rev. Robert Fink officiating. Friends invited. If desired, memorials to Hospice Buffalo, 225 Como Park Blvd., Cheektowaga, NY 14227, or the SPCA, 205 Ensminger Road, Tonawanda, NY 14150, are preferred by the family. Complete obituary, condolences and directions at www.hampfuneral.com.
Jamie Spanton-Gasbarro, January 28, 2012, 34, of Grand Island, died peacefully at home after a courageous battle with cancer; beloved wife of Eric Gasbarro married November 5, 2011; loving daughter of David and Mary Spanton; dear sister of Rochelle (Todd) Ferguson and Traci Fissler and nieces, Alexis and Ruby; loving granddaughter of the late Catherine and Charles Beyer and the late Vernelia and Howard Stanton; cherished daughter-in-law of Dennis and Colleen Gasbarro; much-loved sister-in-law of Jesse (Sarah) Gasbarro, Miranda (Mark) Giglio and Valerie Gasbarro. Family and friends welcomed Monday, January 30 from 9:30 - 10:30 AM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island followed by Memorial Services, Monday at 10:30 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Roswell Park Cancer Institute or Hospice Buffalo. Jamie worked at Springleaf Financial Services in Lockport. Her co-workers and doctors and nurses who cared for her will be remembered with great fondness for their compassion, understanding and loving care. Jamie's greatest joy was family, fashion, interior decorating and her beloved cats.
Janet (nee Pack) Brady, January 23, 2012, after a short illness, of Grand Island, wife of the late James E. Brady; dearest mother of Norman E. (Deborah) and Kevin S. (Amanda) Brady; loved grandmother of Megan and Patrick J. (Tori) Brady, Matthew J. and Kathleen Brady; sister-in-law of Robert (Amelia) Brady and the late Ruby (late Robert) Luick; sister of the late Llewellan J. (late Lorraine) Pack; also survived by loving nieces and nephews. Memorial services will be held Saturday, January 28 at 10 AM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to the Erie County SPCA.
Barbara (nee Brunner) Haefner, of Naples, Florida and formally of Grand Island, New York, passed away peacefully on January 13, 2012. She is survived by her husband Ralph; three daughters, Kathleen (Joseph) Gerretsen, Betty (Greg) Smith, Nancy (Philip) Gerretsen; and four grandchildren, Philip Jr. and Sarah Gerretsen and Ryan and Travis Smith. Services will be held at a later date. Memorial Contributions may be made to Mofitt Cancer Center Foundation, 12902 Magnokia Dr., Tampa, Fl.
William R. Luff, of Grand Island, New York, passed January 16, 2012, beloved husband of Josephine Barone-Luff; brother of Howard (Shirley) Luff; father of Deborah (Michael) Castle, Kim (late James) Hurd, Robert (Patricia) Luff, Richard (Christine) Luff, Mary Kay (Michael) Berhalter, Tracy (Robert) Forquer, and stepchildren James (Cheryl) Beauregard, Maria (Mark) Seibert and the late Robert P. Beauregard; proud grandfather to Jack, Sean and Alison Castle, Eric Hurd, Kathryn (Michael Jr.) Kessler, Karly Hartz, Lindsay (Fernando) Orozco, Andrew, Ethan, Colin, Tristen and William F.H. Luff, Alexander and Lauren Berhalter, Riley, Joshua and Owen Forquer, and step-grandchildren Alexandra and Mark Seibert, Erin Kreager and Jamie Beauregard; adoring great grand-father to Zofia Castle, Sophie Grace Bootes and Eva Luff. He was the co-founder of Gasport Wood Products and retired as a skilled trade carpenter from "Generous Motors" (as he called it), in 1996. Memorial services will be held on Friday, January 20 at 10 AM at Whitehaven Rd. Baptist Church, 1290 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Salvation Army or St. Jude's Hospital for Children. Visit www.pruddenandkandt.com
Long-time Buffalo and Grand Island resident, Marion Alt Pinkow, passed away on January 13, 2012. Born on May 18, 1914 in Buffalo, Marion Pinkow attended School #60 in Buffalo, receiving the Jesse Ketchum silver medal for academic excellence in both eighth and ninth grades. Mrs. Pinkow graduated from Riverside High School in 1932 and attended the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY, where she played the ‘cello and earned a degree in Music Education. After teaching music in the Buffalo schools for a brief period in the late 1930s, and beginning a family of three children, Marion and her husband, William Pinkow, moved to Grand Island, residing for many years on Westwood Dr. and also on East River Rd. The second daughter of Charles and Emma Alt, Marion grew up on Laird Avenue in Buffalo, spending many summers in the early 1920s living in the boathouse of the old Pierce Farm (on the West River near Long Road). Through her parents, Emma Duchscherer Alt of Buffalo and Charles S. Alt, a native of Grand Island, she was related to many of the early Grand Island families—Alts, Houcks and Longs.
Mrs. Pinkow was deeply involved in the community through her activities as a choral and general music teacher in the Buffalo and Grand Island Schools, through extensive involvement with Erie County and New York State School Music Teachers’ Organizations, as choir director and congregational member at Trinity United Methodist Church, as a member of the East Park Garden Club, and as a ‘cellist with the Amherst Symphony and Niagara Falls Philharmonic. In 1956, Marion Pinkow and her husband William were honored by the Grand Island Kiwanis Club as “Outstanding Citizens of Grand Island.” A decade later, Marion Pinkow was named by the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce as “Outstanding Citizen of the Year (education) for 1967.”
During the mid-1960s Mrs. Pinkow served as musical director of the Island Theater Group with presentations of The King and I (1963), South Pacific (1966), Oklahoma (1968), Plain and Fancy, and others. Other community activities pursued by Marion Pinkow include participation in the Grand Island Community Chorus, chairman of the Buffalo Philharmonic’s Grand Island fund drives, chairman of the PTA’s Music Committee, music consultant for the Girl Scouts, Superintendent of Trinity Church’s Vacation Bible School (1953-56), and chairman of the Grand Island Community Band’s uniform fundraising committee (1957).
For a time Marion Pinkow and her late husband, “Bill,” became “snow birds” living part-time in Northport, FL, a community adopted by at least a dozen other Grand Island couples. There during the winters in Northport, she and Bill continued their passion for music through joint leadership of the Northport Chorale and participation in the Charlotte Chamber Orchestra and Northport Symphony. In 2000, owing to Bill’s death and her deteriorating health, Mrs. Pinkow began living full-time with her daughter and son-in-law (Christine and Paul Sipson) on Grand Island. For the past six years she had been a resident at the Riverwood Health Care Center on Grand Island Blvd.
Mrs. Pinkow was predeceased by her husband William Pinkow and sisters Elizabeth Laidman Hill and Catherine Schultz. She is survived by her three children, Charles of Churchville, PA (m. Kathleen Neissel Pinkow [deceased]); David of Boulder, CO (m. Louise Dickey Pinkow); and Christine of Grand Island (m. Paul Sipson); six grandchildren; and six great grandchildren.
A memorial service for Marion Pinkow is being planned for July 15, 2012 at Trinity United Methodist Church (2100 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island).
Caroline Sadowsky, 39, of Grand Island, NY, December 30, 2011, loving daughter of the late Chikako (nee Sato) and Elwood "Butch"; sister of Elwood; countless friends and loved ones. Memorial service January 18 at 12:30 PM at the Sacred Heart Chapel, Koessler Administration Building, D'Youville College campus, 320 Porter Ave. Flowers gratefully declined. Donations to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.
John N. "Jack" Brown, of Grand Island, formerly of Youngstown, Buffalo and East Aurora; January 12, 2012, age 91; husband of the late Norma (Bowers) Brown and the late Jean (Elwood) Graham Brown; father of Carolyn A. "Carrie" (Jim) Anderson and Joanne M. (Nicholas) Buccieri; step-father of Kevin (Jan) Graham and Alison (Frank) Bussman; grandfather of Tiffany (Lorne) Aschendorf, Jason (Dr. Anne) Anderson, Nathan, Trevor (Laura) and Tyler (Kacie) Buccieri; brother of the late Marion Rohrer and Norma Ayres. Also survived by four great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held Sunday, January 15 at 1 PM at St. Nicholas Anglican Church, 2784 Seneca St., West Seneca, NY. No prior visitation. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to Buffalo Hospice, 225 Como Park Blvd., Cheektowaga, NY 14227. Arrangements by THE HARDISON FUNERAL HOMES, INC. Lewiston. Please visit www.hardisonfuneralhomes.com for online registry.
Margaret E. "Peg" Malican, January 9, 2012, of Grand Island; daughter of the late William V. and Jeanne (Miller) Malican; sister of William V. II (the late Kathleen), Edward C. (Patricia) and the late Charles M. Malican; fondly remembered by nieces, nephews and many grand nieces and grand nephews. A memorial Mass will be celebrated Friday, January 13 at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. Memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo. Peg began her teaching career at St. Mary's School for the Deaf in Buffalo; she continued teaching and later became Principal at an elementary school for the Frontier Central School System. She was an avid boating enthusiast, she will be remembered as the Captain of "The Old Goat".
Cecilia Agnes Stack, January 5, 2012, born and raised on Grand Island; wife of the late CMSGT Stanley Hohenstein; beloved and admired mother of Raymond F. (Christina) Moran Jr., Kelly (Rick) Rowe, Timothy (Jill Forsyth), Matthew, Sean P. (Becky) and Kevin (Nicole) Moran, Mary (Greg) Reger and the late Roger J. Moran; beloved grandmother of Fiona (Don) Stevison, Catherine (Dave) Broom, Matthew, Michael D., Laura, Sarah, Walter P. and Brooke Moran, Rachel, Rebecca, Hannah, Sarah, Leah and Elizabeth Reger and the lare Tina Shaeffer and Kevin Conor Moran; beloved great-grandmother of Cassandra Landon, Shanelle and Joseph Shaeffer and Claire Jane Brown; beloved great-great-grandmother of Baylee, Breanna, Breagen and Briley; sister of Bernice Dinsmore, Francis and Paul Stack and the late Elizabeth Blackstock, Edward, John, James, Eugene, Charles and Patrick Stack. Friends may call Monday, January 9 from 9:30-11:00 AM at St. Stephen's Church (Old Church) 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Stephen's Church at 11 AM, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.
Shannon Peters, 28, of Grand Island, NY passed away unexpectedly Monday, January 2, 2012 at Kenmore Mercy Hospital in Town of Tonawanda, NY. Born in North Tonawanda, NY she was the daughter of Sherry (Barr) Peters of Grand Island, NY and Daniel Peters of Kenmore, NY. Shannon was a graduate of SUNY Fredonia where she received her Bachelor Degree in Music. She was also a graduate of Medaille College in Buffalo, NY where she earned her Master’s Degree in Elementary Education, and was planning to enroll for her Master’s in Special Education. She loved to work with children and enjoyed teaching. While attending college she worked as a catering manager for Famous Dave’s Barbeque in Cheektowaga, NY. Shannon was also a talented musician and was honored to play taps at local Veteran services. She also loved animals and her love of her life was her puppy, “Delilah”. In addition to her parents, Shannon is survived by her sister, Alexandra Peters of Grand Island, NY; grandparents John and Mary Barr of Town of Niagara and her best friend Susan Massena of Geneseo, NY. Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 7th from 1 – 3PM at the M.J.COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL 2730 MILITARY RD NIAGARA FALLS, NY where a Memorial Service will immediately follow at 3:00PM with Rev. Patrick Fleming officiating. Burial will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the SPCA Serving Erie County, 205 Ensminger Rd. Tonawanda, NY 14150 or the Shannon Mary Peters Memorial Scholarship Fund at any First Niagara Branch.
Barbara A. (Kaiser) Spaulding, 64, of Lyndon, VT, died peacefully at her home Monday morning Nov. 22, 2010, with her loving family at her side.She was born July 27, 1946 in Buffalo, N.Y., the daughter of Randal and Doris (Webb) Kaiser. After her graduation from high school in 1964, Barbara married Bob Benton. He predeceased her in 1983. Later that year she married Bruce Spaulding. He predeceased her in 2005. Barbara was a staunch Dale Earnhardt Sr. and Jr. NASCAR race fan. She kept several huge flower and vegetable gardens and hosted many cookouts for her family and friends. Recently she enjoyed traveling to the West Coast with two of her grandchildren, Dominique and Ti'ana. She also enjoyed shopping trips with friends, yoga, restoring her home and a good bottle of wine. Survivors include her mother, Doris Kaiser of Grand Island, N.Y.; two sons, Robert Benton and wife Jan Tate of Dover, N.H., and Gene Benton and wife Kristin of Sutton; her step-daughter Holly (Spaulding) McKeon and husband Kevin of Newark; nine grandchildren, Dominique, Justin, Felix, Ti'ana, Shelby, Kiele, Aiden, Mason and Alexis; and her brother, Jim Kaiser and wife Myra of Grand Island, N.Y. She was predeceased by her two husbands and her father. Barb's family would like to give a special thank-you to Cheryl Bona for "Being Our Rock" through this journey.
Harold Ronald Mueller, January 4, 2012, of Grand Island, husband of Beverly J. Mueller; father of Cynthia J. (Anthony) Paris and Ronald H. (Jennifer P.) Mueller; grandfather of Valerie and Anthony Paris III, Jocelyn Page and Jaden R. Mueller; brother of Lorraine (the late William) Michaels and the late Gary Mueller; son of the late Otto and Lorraine Mueller; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Wednesday, January 11 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd, Grand Island where funeral services will be held Thursday, January 12 at 11 AM.
Kenneth W. Tollner, January 5, 2012, of Grand Island, husband of the late Judy Tollner; companion of Alex Kahn; father of Mark and Todd (Rhonda) Tollner; grandfather of Alex, Matt, Wyatt and Morgan, brother of Gary (Angie) Tollner. Friends may call Monday, January 9 from 7-9 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, where memorial services will be held Tuesday, January 10 at 10 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Our Lady of Fatima Shrine, Youngstown, NY. Mr. Tollner was a retired member of the Marine Division of the Erie County Sheriffs Dept. and a former teacher at Ken-Ton Boces.
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.
Marjorie R. (nee Simmons) Costello, January 1, 2012, of Grand Island, wife of the late William J. Costello; mother of Linda (John) Braddell, William J. Costello II, Patricia (Dan Buckley) Rink, Penny (Michael) Linenfelser and Michael (Barbara) Costello; grandmother of John Jr. (Rachel), Michael (Heather) and Mark Braddell, Rita and Adrian Costello, Jon Calabro, Maxwell Costello, Stephanie and Chris (Laura) Rink, Lisa Linenfelser, Anne (Oliver II) Stuardi, Nathan, Maria (Justin Hays), Peter and Matthew Costello; great-grandmother of Ashley, Samantha, Zachery, Julia, John R. III and Jayce Braddell, Gianluca Calabro, Oliver Stuardi III and Vincent Costello; sister of Richard, Raymond, Gerald (Kathy) and the late David Simmons; cousin of Suzanne (Patrick) Duggan; also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. Friends may call Thursday, January 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 Friday, January 6 at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.
Robert M. Goulah, January 1, 2012, beloved husband of Stephanie M. (nee Skura) Goulah; survived by his beloved companion Tacoma; dearest son of Richard (Angela) Goulah and JoAnn (Lawrence) Taylor; brother of James, Jennifer (Robert) Barr, Carrie (Neil) Gerspach, Angela (Brandon) Brayley, and JoAnna Goulah; son-in-law of James S. (Clare A.) Skura; brother-in-law of Jessica (Sean) Jensen and James D. Skura; also survived by seven nephews, and his grandparents Eileen (Al) Acquisto, Lawrence (Shirley) Goulah, and Daniel Ceranski. The family will be present on Thursday, January 5 from 4-8 PM at the (Tonawanda Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 2600 Sheridan Drive (corner Parker Blvd.) where Funeral Services will follow at 8 PM. If so desired, donations may be made to The SPCA of WNY. Please share condolences online at www.AMIGONE.com
Bernard "Ben" Vanderbles, January 2, 2012, of Grand Island, devoted husband of 66 years of Margaret (Gramlich) Vanderbles; beloved father of Donna (Philip) Millar, Timothy (the late Paulette) Vanderbles, Linda (Donald) Hammond and Maryann (John) Blest; proud grandfather of Timothy Jr., Mary Jane and Lisa Vanderbles, Christopher, Matthew and Leah Hammond, Benjamin Purrington, Erin and Erica Blest; proud great-grandfather of Tylyr Vanderbles, Rylee Baker and Griffin Spaulding; son of the late Emma and Bernard Vanderbles, Sr.; brother of the late John Sr. and Fredrick Vanderbles and Aiice Olrogge; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Wednesday, January 4 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 Thursday, January 5 at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo or The American Parkinsons Disease Assn. Mr. Vanderbles was a WW II veteran and a member of American Legion Post #1280 in Cassadaga, NY.
