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Previous Death Notices
Gillman P. Clarke - Of Grand Island. After 68 fun-filled years, Gillman Patrick Clarke passed away peacefully December 31, 2021, with his family holding his hands. During his life, full of good times, he hitchhiked across the country, owned his own roofing company, represented the Grand Island AFSCME Union, as President, and most importantly built a home for his family that included his high school sweetheart of 52 years, Arlene (Mancuso) and his two boys, Sam Carson and Gillman Cody (Natalie) and two grandchildren, Jackson and Rosalie. He also leaves behind his sister, Jo Ann (Dan) Linenfelser, numerous nieces and nephews and many lifelong friends. Gillman looks forward to joining his parents, Francis and Gillman Henry Clarke, who will have a cold beer and shot waiting for him. A Memorial Mass will be held Wednesday, January 5th, at 9:30 AM at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island and a Celebration of his Life will be held at a future date. Flowers are gratefully declined and the family asks donations be made to Hospice Buffalo. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Margaret D. (nee Pollock) Lebrenz - Age 89, of Grand Island, her beautiful soul entered eternal peace on December 29, 2021. Loved by so many, wife of the late Charles E. Lebrenz; mother of Roxanne (Matthew) Walter, Kevin (Linda) Lebrenz, Brian (Tracy) Lebrenz and Jody (Patty) Lebenz; also survived by several grandchildren, great-grandchildren and three spoiled grand-puppies. Margaret volunteered many years for the Tonawanda City School District in her daughter's classroom, as well as at DeGraff Hospital and was a very proud member of the Grand Island Golden Age Center. She will always be remembered for her kindness, laughter and smile that touched so many peoples' hearts. A private service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made in Margaret's name to the Grand Island Golden Age Center. Condolences may be shared online at www.ROTHFUNERAL.com.
James G. Ray, Jr. - December 29, 2021, age 93, of Grand Island, NY. Beloved husband of the late Jeannette (nee Swannie) Ray; son of the late J. Gordon and Eva (Saltsman) Ray; father of James G. (Diane) Ray III; Richard D. Ray, Susan L. (George) Moots; cherished grandfather of five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. At James' request, his body was donated to the UB Anatomical Gift Program for the advancement of science. A private Memorial Service is planned for the family. Memorial donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Association, in honor of James.
Richard B. Graczyk - Age 76, of Buffalo, passed away at home on December 22, 2021, in Syracuse, NY. Born in Buffalo on April 6, 1945, to the late Richard and Virginia Graczyk. After high school he attended U.B., where he earned his B.A. in Biology. Rich continued his education at Canisius College, where he received is M.S. in Education. Upon completion of his education he enlisted in the Air Force and was a Vietnam Veteran. He took great pride in serving his country and was proud of helping to create the CCAF (Community College of the Air Force). Rich was also extremely proud of all his grandkids and all their accomplishments. After his service he went on to teaching and spent 28 years at Grand Island Central as a Science Teacher where he was awarded numerous awards for his efforts over the years. Rich was also a member of the American Legion Post 0264, Tonawanda; predeceased by his parents and his beloved wife of 31 years Patricia. Rich is survived by his daughter, Ginny (Eric), a son, Joseph, grandchildren, Mason, Lukas, Marek, Madelyn and Olivia, a sister, Linda (Henry) Wymbs and numerous cousins. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, January 3, 2022 at 10am at St. Francis of Assisi, 73 Adam St., Tonawanda, NY 14150. Burial will be in St. Stanislaus Cemetery, Cheektowaga. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to, Hospice & Palliative Care Buffalo, 225 Como Park Blvd., Buffalo, NY 14227.
Arliss I. Lantz - 88, of Greer, passed away Saturday, December 25, 2021. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Tuesday, December 28, Batatesburg-Leesville Presbyterian Church with interment in Ridge Crest Memorial Park. Born in Auburn, Indiana, she was the daughter of the late Frank and Gladys Rastenburg. She was a member of Batesburg-Leesville Presbyterian Church and she belonged to Eastern Star and the Order of Amaranth. She enjoyed reading, jigsaw puzzles, and spending time with her family. She was the loving wife of the late David McDonald Lantz; mother of the late Judy Lantz, Betty Lantz, Amy Lantz, Patty Roberts; sons-in-law, Mike Shealy, Dale Roberts; and best friend and granddaughter, Kelly Roberts. The family would like to thank the staff of Brookdale Brushy Creek in Greer for their loving care of our Mom.
Russell S. Capizzi - December 24, 2021; age 88. Beloved husband of 56 years to the late Philomenia "Phyllis" (nee Montemarano) Capizzi; devoted father of Maria (late Fred) Korhummel, Salvatore Capizzi, Russell (Gina) Capizzi and Phyllis (Rich) Dworak; loving popsie of Fred (Stephanie) Korhummel, Salvatore, Julianna, Nicoletta Capizzi, Dominique (Tim) Koch, Nicholas (Karli) Capizzi, Thomas and Tyler Dworak; great-grandfather of Milania and Kash; dear brother of Joyce Madonia; also survived by nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends on Wednesday from 4-8 PM at the (Tonawanda Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC. 2600 Sheridan Drive (at Parker Blvd.). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday at 9:30 AM, from St. Stephen R.C. Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. (Please assemble at church). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to WNY Heroes. Share online condolences at www.AMIGONE.com.
Robert W. Click - December 19, 2021, of Grand Island. Husband of Angela Click. Father of Jagger and Kaylee Click. Stepfather of Natosha, Vincent, Anthony and Alex. Grandfather of Mason, Mikayla, Mya and Theo. Son of Gail (nee Luther) and the late William E. Click. Brother of William J. (Danielle) Click. Grandson of Shirley and the late Bunny Luther, and Dorothy and the late William W. Click; also survived by several nephews and cousins. Memorial Services will be held Tuesday, December 28, at 6 PM, at Bible Fellowship Center, 1136 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or the SPCA. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Gladys Elizabeth Hall - December 16, 2021, of Grand Island, NY. Beloved wife of 72 years to the late Lester "Bill" Hall; dearest mother of Timothy (Sue), Gary (Cynthia) and the late Terrence Hall; also survived by Pamela (late Timothy) Klein, Linda (Donald) Lembke, William (Mary Ann) and Richard (Barbara) Wilsman; loving grandmother of Fonthip and Tira; dearest sister of the late Edwin (Betty) Wilsman and survived by loving nieces and nephews. Gladys and Bill operated their own manufacturing business in Buffalo, NY. After retirement in Florida, they moved back to Buffalo. A private Memorial will be held by the family. Flowers gratefully declined. Arrangements by JAMES E. GRACE FUNERAL HOME, INC.
John G. Ziehm - Originally of Grand Island, currently of West Seneca, NY went to Heaven on December 13, 2021 after a battle with COVID-19. Devoted husband of Paula Fleming-Ziehm (nee Stanton); beloved father of Andrew (Amie) Ziehm and Nathan (Jaylene) Ziehm; loving grandfather of Owen Ziehm, late Noah Ziehm, and one grandson on the way; caring brother of the late David Ziehm, Marion (Douglas) Wendt, and William (Lucille) Ziehm; also survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Friends and family will be received Saturday, December 18th, 10-11 AM at LAKESIDE MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME, INC., 1340 Union Rd., West Seneca, NY 14224, 716-674-5776. A Memorial Service to follow at the funeral home. Flowers gratefully accepted. Online condolences may be made at www.LakesideFuneralHome.com.
Margaret M. (nee Leiser) Schwartz - December 6, 2021, of Grand Island. Wife of the late Jerome "Jerry" Schwartz; mother of Paul (Wanda) Schwartz, Margaret (Jan) Swistowski, Carolyn (Donnie) Scheidel and Linda (Mike) Pauly; also survived by nine grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews; sister of the late Mary (late Dom) Crupe, Dorothy (late Jim) Pezzimenti and Thomas (late Lorraine) Leiser. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Saturday, December 18th, at 9:30 AM at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
William E. "Lee" Smith - December 1, 2021, lifelong resident of Grand Island. Husband of 55 years of the late Patricia (nee VanDyke) Smith. Father of Lynn (Mark) Fotia and Terri (Dennis) Szafranski. Grandfather of Vince and John Fotia. Brother of Colin (Susan) Smith, Leslie (Judy) Smith and Valerie (Robert) Funk. Son of the late Clarence "Bud" and Mary (nee Hardy) Smith. Lee was an avid golfer, worked at the Grand Island Post Office for 30 years and at the Beaver Island Golf Course. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Tuesday, December 21st, at 9:30 AM at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation (app.mobilecause.com/vf/PFFTribute/WilliamLeeSmith) or Hospice Buffalo. Please share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Richard Spence Downing - 1935 - 2021 -86, of Grand Island, NY, passed away on December 6th, 2021. He was born March 13, 1935 and was a resident of Dover, NH for 39 years, attending Dover schools and graduating from UNH with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering. He retired from the USAF Reserve as a Lt. Colonel after a combined 23 years of active duty and reserve services. After 37 years he retired from Moore Business Forms (R.R.Donnelly) having served in various engineering/mgmt positions in Dover, NH; Niagara Falls and Grand Island, NY. He was a Registered Professional Engineer, private pilot, and businessman. A born-again Christian, he was a member of the Dover NH Baptist Church, and the Cleveland Hill United Methodist Church of Buffalo, NY. An outdoorsman, he enjoyed fishing, boating, hiking, golf, skiing, photography, gardening, and scuba diving. As an avid traveler, he made over 30 trips to six continents. He is survived by his wife Sharon Stevens Downing, daughter Susan (Steven) Downing Nielsen, son Daniel (Cori) Paris Downing, three stepsons Jason (Jennifer), Jeffrey (Monica) and Jonathan Stevens and his 12 grandchildren. Private services will be held by the family. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Trout Unlimited, PO Box 7400, Woolly Bugger, WV 25438 in memory of Lt. Colonel Richard Downing (Captain Dick).
Diane Hughes - December 10, 2021, formerly of Grand Island. Mother of Anthony (Ashley) Hughes. Daughter of the late William and Margaret Woodman. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Daniel Paul Peters - Age 41, of Duluth, Minnesota, formerly of Grand Island, suddenly, on November 25, 2021. Cherished son of Paul and Wendy Peters; beloved brother of Shawn (Colin Chavel) and Nick (Sara) Peters. Memorial gathering at Brickyard Brewery and Pub, Lewiston, Saturday, December 18, 12-4 PM.
Reverend Sue K. Kaiser - December 3, 2021, of Williamsville and Grand Island. Survived by devoted husband of 63 years, Robert Kaiser; mother of Mark Kaiser and Stacy (Thomas) Gilmour; grandmother of Genevieve, Chyris, Briana, Joel and Brandon; great-grandmother of Jackson, Elysium and Maisy; sister of Sharon (Vincent) Papa and Maralee Wienert; also survived by many cherished nieces and nephews. Sue worked as a dental hygienist early in her career. In midlife, she earned a bachelor's degree in Geriatrics, and later a Master of Divinity degree. During her career as one of the earlier female ministers, she served six United Methodist churches in Western New York. Pastor Sue was known and respected for her loving, caring, welcoming and determined nature. Sue cherished her many friends and extended family members near and far, and often expressed her deep gratitude for the help of her loving husband Bob. Her close connection with these loved ones was among her greatest blessings, and she faithfully sent handwritten notes and cards for every occasion. Her care extended to the greater community in many forms, including her dedicated support of Somalian refugees. In addition to her many ministries, Sue found joy in the harmonies of singing, gardening and creative endeavors. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved her on earth. Friends may call Tuesday 9-10:30 AM at KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island and Funeral Services will follow at 11 AM at Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Trinity UMC.
Thomas James Gascoigne - Age 78, December 2, 2021, of Grand Island, NY. Beloved husband of Patricia (nee Battaglia) Gascoigne; devoted son of the late Harold and Hazel Gascoigne; dear brother-in-law of Frank Battaglia; also survived by several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Private services. Thomas was the founder of Buffalo Creek Graphics which produced model train cars. He was an avid toy train collector and well-known for his expertise in all things railroads and train memorabilia. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.lesterwedekindtfuneralhome.com.
James R. Caprio - 82, of Grand Island, NY, and formerly of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away on Monday, November 22, 2021, at N.F. Memorial Medical Center. Born on April 8, 1939, he was the son of the late Rocco J. and Josephine (Gruppo) Caprio; and the beloved husband of his high school sweetheart, Jean Marie (Saraceni) Caprio, who he married in 1958. They were blessed with four wonderful children. The loss of his daughter, Valerie Jean, in 2015 caused him tremendous sorrow. In addition to his wife, Mr. Caprio is survived by his children, Linda Morinello, Cheryl Caprio and Jim (Colleen) Caprio, and was predeceased by his daughter, Valerie J. Caprio. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren, Angelo, Christen, Michaelina, Maria (Adam) Hayden, Lisa, Teresa, Jacinta, Joseph, and Gianna Morinello, and Juliette, Joseph and Gianna Caprio; also 11 great-grandchildren, Vincenzo, Christian, Santino, Romeo, Adriana, Giuliana, Atticus, Arabella, Gabriella, and twins, Michael and Francis; his siblings, Lucy (late Silvio) Martelli and Richard D. (Jollie A.) Caprio, as well as his uncle Neil Gruppo, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Jim gave the ultimate gift of himself by donating his body to the UB Anatomical Gift Program. A Memorial Mass for James will be celebrated on Saturday, December 4 at 12 Noon in Holy Family Parish at St. Joseph Church, 1413 Pine Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY. The family will be present at 11:15 AM, and will also greet friends and family following Mass. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Infant Jesus Shrine (3452 Niagara Falls Blvd., North Tonawanda, NY 14120), or the Niagara Arts and Cultural Center (1201 Pine Avenue Niagara Falls, NY 14301). Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for full obituary and online condolences.
Allen Cowart, Sr. - entered into eternal rest on November 24, 2021. He was the Loving husband of Stephanie Williams Cowart; devoted father of Schurron and Allen Q. (Fredia) Cowart, Jr. ; cherished grandfather to Amayah and Allen Q. III. The family will receive friends on Thursday, December 2, 2021, 4PM-6PM and Friday, December 3, 2021, 11AM- 12 noon at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 1334 Calumet Avenue, Niagara Falls, New York where a Celebration of Life will be conducted Friday at 12 Noon. Interment Oakwood Cemetery. Arrangements by Williamson Funeral Home.
Ronald H. Livingston - age 83, of Grand Island, NY, died peacefully on November 22, 2021, at his daughter’s home in Dalton, NY. He was born the son of Martin and Esther (Jepson) Livingston on December 12, 1937, on Grand Island, NY and was a lifelong resident of the Island. He served in the Navy from 1955-1963. He was a well-known contractor and developer on Grand Island and in Swain NY. He was the President of Grand Island Builders Association, a Freemason and member of Trinity Church. To his friends and those who loved him he was known as “Captain Ron, Uncle Fun” and “Poppy”. He is survived by his 4 children, Rhonda (Todd) Tollner of Grand Island, Robin (James Crawford) Livingston of Dalton, Kevin (Lori) Livingston of Ballston Spa and Kimberly (Allan) Glessner of Tennessee, 8 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren, Sister, Joan (Skip) Bidell-Fred of Grand Island, many nieces, nephews, and loving friends. He was predeceased by his brothers Charles, Martin and Jerry and granddaughter Ashly Gambino. A luncheon will be held December 4, 2021 12-4 pm for family and friends at the Moose Lodge on Grand Island Blvd. Memorials may be made to Tunnels to Towers, 2361 Hyland Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10306 or the Wounded Warriors, PO Box 758513, Topeka Kansas, 66675-8516. Arrangements by the John W. Martin Funeral Home, 37 Chapel Street, Mount Morris. Sign the online registry at www.johnwmartinfuneralhome.com.
Mary Lou (nee Mcnamara) Menna - Of Grand Island, entered into rest November 26, 2021. Wife of 56 years to James A. Menna; mother of James (Ellen) Menna, John Menna and Joseph Menna; grandmother of Isabel and Caroline; daughter of the late Leonard and Frances McNamara; sister of the late James (Madelyn) McNamara. Relatives and friends may visit the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME, (Northtowns Chapel) 885 Niagara Falls Blvd., near Eggert/Sheridan Dr., on Friday from 4-6PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Stephen Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island on Saturday morning, December 4th at 9:30. (Please assemble at church). Interment St. Stephen Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Mary Lou's name to the charity of your choice are preferred. Condolences may be made online at www.lombardofuneralhome.com.
Martha A. (nee Howe) Bojarski - Of Grand Island, NY, November 18, 2021. Dearest mother of Robert A., Fr. Mitchell T. (Beth) and Mark R. Bojarski; grandmother of Eliot and James Bojarski; daughter of the late George T. and Margaret J. (Anderson) Howe; sister of William "Bill" T. (Katherine) Howe; also survived by nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends. The family will be present Friday, December 3, 2021 from 5-8 PM, for a Celebration of Life Gathering at St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church, 2597 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, NY, where a Memorial Service will be held Saturday, December 4, 2021 at 11 AM. Arrangements by: ERIE COUNTY CREMATION SERVICE, 824-6435. Please share your condolences at: www.eriecountycremationservice.com.
Wendy N. (nee Clark) Slowe, DVM - Of Grand Island, NY, November 17, 2021. Born in California in 1942 and raised in Toronto, Ontario, daughter of the late Cecil and Iris (Reese) Lesmond, wife of the late Thomas Slowe. Graduate of the University of Guelph School of Veterinary Medicine, she specialized in emergency and critical care with Buffalo Veterinary Group, Ford Veterinary Associates and her former practice: Suburban Veterinary Hospital in Williamsville, NY. In her youth, she rode for exercise, racing Thoroughbreds at the Woodbine course in Canada and never lost her love for the racing game. Wendy was an avid gardener and created a blooming masterpiece to surround her home. But of all her interests, she will always be best remembered and respected for her dedication to Standard Poodles which she bred at her Trelarken kennel. Her beloved "Bama," AM/CAN Ch. Trelarken Turn Back Time, TP was a major contributor to the lineage of many winning Standards exhibited in the Ring today. She is greatly missed by friends, colleagues and so many that she influenced throughout the years and most especially by her dogs that she preceded to the Bridge. Memorial to be held Saturday December 4, 2021 1-4 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island.
Allene Jeanette (nee Holt) Jansen - Of Grand Island, NY, age 94, entered into rest on November 21, 2021, after a long and joyful life. She was born in North Tonawanda, NY, and is the daughter of the late William John Holt and Ester Matilda Roth Holt. She is the sister of the late John "Jack" Edward Holt. Allene graduated from North Tonawanda High School in 1944 where she was a drum majorette and an active member of the Sigma Theta Sorority. Allene was the beloved wife of the late Norman M. Jansen. She was a loving mother to five children, Michael (Cheryl) Walker, Jeffery (Shelia) Walker, Jay Jansen, Kit (Melissa) Jansen and Kim (Bob) Willer. She was the cherished grandmother to Ian, Kayla, Sarina, Kara, Joshua, Danielle, Corey, Caiti, Kyra, Brooke and Cameron. She was a great-grandmother to seven great-grandchildren and the future great-grandmother to Wrenly. She will be fondly remembered by the members of the Grand Island Senior Center and the employees at Tops Friendly Market where she loved to shop. She will be deeply missed by her family and remembered as a wonderful mother, wife and friend to all. Private services to be held by the family at a future date in Florida. In lieu of flowers or cards, donations may be made to: www.hospicebuffalo.com. The family would like to say thank you to Hospice for their exceptional care. Arrangements by: ERIE COUNTY CREMATION SERVICE, 824-6435. Please share your condolences at: www.eriecountycremationservice.com.
Elizabeth A. (nee Campbell) Pascoe - Age 80, November 14, 2021, of Grand Island, NY. Beloved wife of the late Vincent Pascoe; devoted mother of Vinette (Tom) Kroetsch, Ann (David) Nuzzo, Patrick (Jolleen) Pascoe, Vincent (Cheri) Pascoe; adored grandmother of Christina, Evamarie, Katelyn, Chloe, Elizabeth, Dominic, Daniel, and Sabrina; dear sister of Michael (late Caroline) Campbell, Thomas (Toni) Campbell, Robert (Marilyn) Campbell, predeceased by sisters Mary Catherine D'Amico and Sarah Jane Campbell; also survived by cousins, nieces, and nephews. Liz was a 40+ year member of the Mothers of Twins Club, 25+ year plasma donor for RhoGAM, and long time member of the Grand Island Garden Club. Friends may call Friday, November 26th, 4-8 PM, at the LESTER H. WEDEKINDT INC. FUNERAL HOME, 3290 Delaware Ave., Kenmore, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, at 9:30 AM, in St. Stephen RC Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, NY, 14072. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in memory of Elizabeth to 10th Chance Animal Rescue, PO Box 392, Lockport, NY 14095. Condolences may be made at www.lesterwedekindtfuneralhome.com.
Mary Elizabeth “Betty” Baldwin - July 31, 1935-October 25, 2021. Mom lived on Grand Island from 1960-2012. She was mother to Linda and Edward and wife to Richard, and lived in the same house in Sandy Beach, at the corner of Wallace Drive and Middle Road, the whole time. Mom worked for the election board and the Brownies, as well as the diner that used to be in the Grand Island Plaza. She attended the Baptist church at Whitehaven, St. Stephens Catholic church, and the Maranatha Coffee House. She answered the prayer lines for Pat Robertson’s 700 Club show at channel 29 studio. Mom loved her kids and her dogs Nosey, Frisker, and Happy, and when her sister Judy came to visit for Thanksgiving with cousins Kathy and Diane, the house was filled with laughter and songs. Her favorite movie was Jaws and she loved egg McMuffins. She was a sweet soul and will be missed by all who knew and loved her.
Gail P. (nee Schasre) Giambra - Of Grand Island, was called to heaven peacefully, surrounded by her loved ones on November 13th, 2021. Beloved mother of Jay (Carol) Giambra, John (Deanne) Giambra, and Jim (Melissa) Giambra; loving grandmother of Ashley, Katelyn, Jordyn, Jenna, Dominic (Tatianna), and Ryan Giambra; predeceased and dearest daughter of the late Harold A. and Helen A. Schasre. Family will be present to receive relatives and friends on Thursday, November 18th, 4-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd, Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Niagara Hospice Foundation. Online condolences at www.kaiserfuneral.com.
Matthew Moran - of Niagara Falls, formerly of Grand Island, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on October 29, 2021 at the age of 62. He was born January 14, 1959. He was born and raised on Grand Island. He is the son of the late Cecilia A. Stack and Raymond F. Moran. He is survived by his siblings, Raymond (Christine) Moran of Dover, Delaware, Kelly (Mark) Lorenzo of West Seneca, Timothy (Jill) Moran of Grapevine, Texas, Sean (Becky) Moran of Landenberg, Pennsylvania, Kevin (Nicole) Moran of Destin, Florida and Mary (Greg) Reger of Chaffee, New York. Also survived by several nieces and nephews. Matt owned his own tree care business and worked very hard right up to the fall of 2021, when he fell sick to an aggressive cancer. He was a man of deep faith, always kind, loving and caring. He enjoyed people and stimulating conversations. He will be missed dearly by his family and all those who loved him. There will be a memorial service held Saturday, November 20 at 11:00 AM at the Kaiser Funeral Home 1950 Whitehaven Rd, Grand Island. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Anthony D’Orazio, Jr. - 86, of Grand Island, NY, passed away on November 5, 2021 after a short illness. Born in Boston, MA, he was the son of the late Anthony and Angeline M. (Penque) D’Orazio.
Tony came to the area in the late 1940s with his family, and graduated from Tonawanda High School. He married Delilah A. “Dolly” (McWilliams) D’Orazio in New Jersey. Dolly predeceased him on March 2, 2020. Tony was employed as a Driver Safety Trainer for Union Carbide in Suffield, CT, California, and New Jersey for 30 years, retiring in 1991. Most recently, he was employed as a Butcher at Tops Market on Grand Island, retiring in 2016. Tony was an Honorary Member of RBMC Motorcycle Club. He ran as the Independence Party Nominee for Erie County Comptroller in 2013, and was a past candidate for Grand Island Town Council. Tony enjoyed golfing, tinkering with cars and bikes, mowing the lawn, and walking his dog, Poe. In addition, he enjoyed playing cards, especially Euchre and Solitare, and petting his cat Reilly while watching TV. He was also an extra in the Paul Newman and Anthony Perkins movie, WUSA.
Tony is survived by his children, Dawn D’Orazio, Anthony (Lisa) D’Orazio, III, Scott (Dena) D’Orazio, Lisa (Gary) Eckis, and Kim (Brian) Yohe; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren; his sister, Ida (late Edwin) Veihdeffer, as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins. In addition to his wife of 42 years, Tony was predeceased by his son David (Leesa) D’Orazio, his grandson, Vincent (Jaime) D’Orazio, and his brothers, Albert (Dorothy) D’Orazio and Luigi (late Reta) D’Orazio.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 16 from 3 -7 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY 14304, where funeral services will be held at 7 PM. If desired, memorial offerings may be made to a charity of one’s choice. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.
David Brian Anderson - Of Grand Island, NY lost his fight with cancer on Friday, November 5, 2021 at the age of 59. Survived by his wife of 30 years Eileen (Simmons) Anderson. Also survived by his children Aimee (Jasen) Cooper, David B. Anderson II and step-daughter Carrie Freed. Son to deceased parents Russell J Anderson and Judith (Gallery) Milley. Brother to Russell (Jill), Johnny (Laura), Jennifer, Tammy (Dave). Survived by several aunts, uncle's, nieces, nephews and grandchildren. Dave was a man of great wisdom, endless wit and deep spirit. His Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.
Daniel J. Stack - Of Grand Island, NY, November 6, 2021 at the age of 61. Son of the late Charlie & Phyllis Stack. Brother to Deborah Stack, the late Richard Stack, Denise (Thomas) Dewey & Sam (Al) Mathews. Memorial Mass on Tuesday, November 16th at St. Stephens RC Church, 2100 Baseline Road at 9:30 a.m. Flowers gratefully declined.
Helen C. (nee Sitarek) Vickers - Formerly of Grand Island, passed on September 10, 2021 in North Carolina. Helen was the wife of the late Thomas E. Vickers; mother of Lisa (Brad) Burton (nee Vickers); grandmother of Cody and Kyle Burton; sister of Mary Ward, Catherine Sitarek and the late Vivian Wentland; daughter of the late Stanley and Catherine (nee Kondziela) Sitarek. Helen was a retiree of the Telephone Pioneers of America. A private ceremony will be held at Acacia Park Cemetery, Pendleton. Please share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Kenneth C. Chapin - Of Grand Island, NY, October 28, 2021, at age 88. Loving companion of the late Margaret Gajewski (Peffer); beloved husband of the late Leona (Grabowski); dearest father of Brian (Barbara) and Darryl Chapin; devoted grandfather of Krystal (Bryan) Daniels, Kaitlyn and Connor Chapin; dear brother of Arthur and the late Albert (Eileen) Chapin; fond uncle of Michael and Mark Chapin. Visitation at the KOLANO FUNERAL HOME, 396 Amherst St. (near Grant) Sunday 4-8PM, where prayers will be held Monday at 9 AM followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at Assumption Church at 9:30AM. Interment Elmlawn Cemetery. Please share online condolences at www.KOLANOFUNERALHOME.com.
Paul N. Frauenhofer - Of Grand Island, entered into rest October 20, 2021. Beloved husband of Mary Jo (nee Harrington) Frauenhofer; dear brother of Chris (late Shirley) Frauenhofer, Tom Frauenhofer (Dawn Lambrix) and the late Don (Thelma) Frauenhofer; also survived by many wonderful nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends may visit the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northowns Chapel), 885 Niagara Falls Blvd., near Eggert/Sheridan Dr., on Friday (October 29), from 3-7 PM, where a Funeral Service will be held on Saturday morning at 10 AM. Flowers gratefully declined. Online condolences at www.lombardofuneralhome.com.
Marian C. (nee Ferraro ) Ianni - October 20, 2021, formerly of Niagara Falls and Grand Island, NY. Wife of the late Paul A. Ianni; dear mother of Barabar (Bud) Osborne and Lucille (late Richard ) Wozniak; also survived by five grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews; predeceased by two sisters and one brother. The family will be receiving relatives and friends Friday from 3-7 PM at the SIECK, MAST & LESLIE FUNERAL HOME, 250 Orchard Park Rd., West Seneca, NY, 716-825-5205 (between Seneca St. and Potter's Rd.), where a Prayer Service will follow at 7 PM. Flowers gratefully declined. Entombment in St. Joseph's Cemetery, Niagara Falls, NY will be held Saturday at 10 AM. Please share condolences at www.sieckandmastfuneralhome.com.
Mary Jane (nee Cook) Sitarski - Of Grand Island, passed away October 17, 2021, surrounded by family. Beloved wife of Gerald Sitarski; dear sister of Arlene (James) Yaksich and the late Joyce (late James) Kocot; loving mom #2 to Katherine (Aaron) Keeler and Stephen Yaksich; awesome great-aunt to Gavin Keeler, Lillian Keeler and Raeven Yaksich; also survived by many special nieces and nephews; cherished sister-in-law of David (Patricia), Robert (Katharina), Edward and Cheryl Sitarski; devoted daughter of the late Joseph Cook and Katherine (Joseph) Stefaniak. Relatives and friends may visit the Lombardo Funeral Home (Northtowns Chapel), 885 Niagara Falls Blvd. near Eggert/Sheridan Dr., on Sunday from 1-4 PM. A Funeral Service will immediately follow. A private interment will be held for the family at Mount Olivet Cemetery. Mary was an avid gardener and member of the St. Jude Crochet Club. She was always singing and whistling, expressing her love of family, people and life. If you met Mary, you immediately liked her. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to DeGlopper Memorial VFW Post #9249 or American Cancer Society. Condolences online may be made at www.lombardofuneralhome.com.
Laurie L. (nee Bauman) Kalman - October 16, 2021, of Grand Island. Mother of Thomas (Nicole) and Kristin Kalman. Grandmother of Kyleigh, Lucas and Bryson. Daughter of Margaret and the late Norman Bauman. Sister of Norman (Sue) Bauman III, Dennis Bauman, Aimee McKnight, Paul Bauman and Matthew (Ania) Bauman. Also survived by loving companion Michael Flavin and many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Thursday, October 21, 1-4 PM and 6-9 PM, at KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, 9:30 AM, at St. Stephen's Church. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Andrea (Rohring) Perfetti - age 32 of Tonawanda, entered into rest October 13, 2021. Devoted mother of Michael Perfetti and Jaxson Kozak. Loving daughter of Bill (Joy) Rohring and Kathryn (John) Roth. Dear sister of Jamie (Joe) Grupp, Megan (Ben) Cooper and Cassie Saleh. Adored step-granddaughter of Michael (Lorraine) Budowski. Andrea is also survived by many loving relatives and friends.
Andrea attended St. Paul Lutheran School (N-2) on Old Falls Blvd. before her family moved from North Tonawanda to Grand Island. She attended Huth Rd School and the GI Middle School until grade 6. After her dad remarried and left GI, she attended Sweet Home Schools until her Graduation in January of 2006. She excelled in softball, beginning with GI Rec and continuing with the Mel Ott Little League as well as travel teams for Mel Ott, Lou Gehrig and Sweet Home HS. Andrea learned to bowl at Mallwitz Lanes and was a Varsity Bowler for 6 years at Sweet Home and won numerous tournaments and championships. After graduation, Andrea worked at several local restaurants through the years, most recently at The Brick Oven.
No prior visitation. A Memorial Service will be celebrated Thursday evening (October 21st) at 7 o’clock at the Amherst Baptist Church, 100 Willow Ridge Drive, Amherst, NY. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Buffalo Adult and Teen Challenge, Lighthouse Women and Children Center and the Tabby Town Cat Adoption Center. Arrangements by the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northtowns Chapel).
John Allen - 90 years old, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 6, 2021 with his partner of 30 years, Cynthia L. Stewart by his side. He was a longtime resident of Grand Island. Born on August 31, 1931 in Fulton, New York to parents George W. and Grace (Hammond) Allen. He attended school and went on to join the Army at the age of 17 where he served his country proudly for 4 years before receiving an honorable discharge. He then went on to attend The University of Buffalo where he received his Masters Degree in Industrial Arts. After graduating he became a well respected Professor at Buffalo State College for the next 32 years. He had many interests including hunting, fishing and outdoors. He is survived by two children: Lorraine S. Wilcox and John H. (Denise) Allen; five grandchildren: Christina, Samantha, Jennifer, Chelsea, Geraldine and Daniel; as well as several great-grandchildren and a very soon to be born great grandson who will be named John. In addition to his parents he was predeceased by his daughter Kathleen Peachee and his nine siblings. There will be no visitation and a burial will be held at Mount Adnah Cemetery in Fulton, New York in the near future.
Robert Howard Miller - "Bob" was born April 27, 1927, to Howard G. and Elizabeth Kocsy Miller, in Riverside, New York. He received his early education there, and was a 1945 graduate of Buffalo Tech High School, Engineering College Preparatory Course of Study, becoming skilled in mechanical drafting and design. Soon after, he enlisted in the US Air Force, and was assigned to work on Link Trainers at Chanute Field, Salina, Kansas. After discharge in 1947, he attended Muskingum College, New Concord, Ohio, and SUNY at Buffalo Medical School. He completed a rotating internship at Deaconess Hospital along with a year of OBGYN residency training, also at Deaconess of Buffalo. He received certification of Nuclear Medicine from the Mayo Clinic, and began his working career in 1954 in occupational medicine at the Black Rock Industrial Clinic.
Robert was a child of the depression, and grew up with the highest regard for honesty and hard work. He was always amazed at how good fortune allowed him to become a physician. In 1954, he borrowed $1000 to buy land on Grand Island, and built his first office and home at the corner of Stony Point and Love Roads. In 1955, he began to care for his neighbors and became involved in the community. He was the first Medical Director of the Grand Island Manor Nursing Home, became Grand Island School Physician, and was the founding chairman of the Narcotics Guidance Council. He was named Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year, and was the last surviving founding member of the Grand Island Rotary Club, having served as President of the Club, and twice being named a Paul Harris Fellow. He was twice selected as Grand Island Citizen of the Year. He and his partner, Dr. Ted Rayhill, were instrumental in the beginning of the Grand Island Rescue Squad.
Robert was a board certified member of the American Academy of Family Practice from 1974-2000, and a Professor Emeritus at the University of Buffalo Medical School. He was awarded the Golden Stethoscope Award by The Erie County Chapter of the New York State Academy of Family Physicians, for exceptional level of professionalism, integrity and teamwork in caring for patient’s and families and collegiality with hospital staff members and other physicians. His interest as a licensed pilot enabled him to be a certified FAA Flight Examiner.
He counted his partners, Dr. Ted Rayhill and Dr. Tom Sheehan as dear friends and family of choice, and after nearly 50 years in the practice of medicine, he often said his career choice did not disappoint. He felt honored to be invited in people’s lives, not only in the mundane or happy times, but most importantly he wanted to be present with them in the most difficult times. He practiced a quiet, deep faith and was a 50 year member at St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church on Grand Island. He was steady and loving and loyal, and his well considered perspective added value to countless conversations and people’s lives. Robert enjoyed golfing and skiing, and had a lifelong passion for reading. He particularly loved fishing the Niagara River with his close friend, Ron Case. Neither of them was ever able to count the hours they spent together in the boat, winter or summer, needing few words to communicate.
Dr. Miller died peacefully, at his home on Grand Island, on October 3, 2021. He is survived by his wife, Shari, of Grand Island, his son, Jim (Kristin) Miller, of Orchard Park, his daughter, Jordan (Adam) Miller-Stubbendick of Kenmore, grandchildren Jake, Carson and Grace Miller, Julian and Ari Miller-Stubbendick. Additional family members include his brother, Jerry (Margaret) Franklin, sister-in-law, Jann Fisher, brother-in-law, Mark Brakke, and nephews and nieces. His Memorial Service will be held at St. Timothy Lutheran Church, 1453 Staley Road on Grand Island on October 16, 2021, at 10 AM. With respect for his 50 years of providing care, and the continued challenges of Covid, masks will be necessary during the service. Share condolences at kaiserfuneal.com.
Diane May (nee Davis ) Stiner - September 28, 2021, of Grand Island. Wife of 48 years of Jack Stiner; mother of the late Jason Stiner; grandmother of Elizabeth Clabeaux; sister of Patty (Pat) Marinaccio, Mike (Michele) and Joe (Mary) Giangrosso. Memorial Services will be held Saturday, October 9th, at 1 PM, followed by visitation until 3 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Daniel A. Tracy Jr. - September 29, 2021 after a long, brave and courageous battle with ALS, of Grand Island. Son of Daniel A. Tracy Sr. and Frances G. (nee Turnwall) Tracy. Brother of Jason J. (Sherrie) Tracy. Uncle of Cooper and Haley Tracy. Also survived by aunts, uncles, cousins and many friends. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date to be announced. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the ALS Association. Danny was a chef for many years at many Western New York restaurants and was the founder of "The Iron Event" which was a fundraiser for the ALS Assoc. with the finest Western New York Restaurants. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Stephen James Adams - Age 70, of Grand Island, NY, formerly employed in the Real Estate Division of the New York State Department of Transportation and US Army Veteran, passed away at home on Friday, September 24, 2021. Born in Niagara Falls, NY, he was the son of the late Betty (Terryberry) and James Adams. Stephen is survived by his beloved wife of 44 years, Lisbeth (Leone) Adams and his loving son, Zachary Stephen Adams of Billings, Montana. He is also survived by a sister, Sharon (Robert) Lavelle of Springfield, VA and brother, Christopher (Mary) Adams of Indianapolis, IN as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins and numerous friends. Steve also leaves two special sisters-in-law and a brother-in-law, Lynette Leone and Lesley and Ira Lapidus. Family and friends are invited to call Sunday, October 3, 2021, from 3 PM-7 PM, at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Rd., Niagara Falls, NY 14304. Steve's Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Stephen's R.C. Church at 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island, NY, on Monday, October 4, 2021 at 10 AM. Please assemble at church. Burial and Military Honors to follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the charity of your choice. THE FAMILY REQUESTS EVERYONE WEAR MASKS AT ALL TIMES, REGARDLESS OF VACCINATION STATUS. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.
Dario A. "Doc" Violanti - Age 83, former Head Engineer for the New York State Parks in Niagara Falls, NY, formerly of Grand Island, NY, passed away on September 23, 2021, at Fox Run at Orchard Park, NY. Born in Lackawanna, NY, he was the son of the late Luigi and Maria (Claroni) Violanti. He was predeceased by his wife, Lana (Haas) Violanti, in 2008. Dario is survived by his grandchildren, Donald (Cara) Silversmith, Jr., Tanya Violanti, Matt Violanti, Melissa Violanti and Joseph Strange; his great-granddaughter, Izadora Sky Violanti; his siblings, Louis "Lou" (late Joan) Violanti, Anthony (Ann) Violanti, as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins; he was predeceased by his children, Thomas Violanti and Debra Violanti; his brother, Armand "Arm" (late Shirley) Violanti and his loving companion, Donna Anderson. Visitation will be on Friday, October 1st, from 1-4 PM and 6-8 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Rd., Niagara Falls, NY 14304. Dario's Funeral Services will be on Saturday, October 2nd at 11 AM at St. Stephen's R.C. Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, NY 14072, concluding with Military Honors. Please assemble at church. Private interment at St. Stephen's Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Hospice of Buffalo. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.
William D. "Bill" Palumbo - Age 50, of Grand Island, NY, passed away peacefully on September 24, 2021, after a courageous battle with cancer. Bill was the beloved husband of Amy (Burns) Palumbo; loving father of William Jr., Kelsey (Anthony Silva), Connor, Declan and Delany; son of William J. and the late Constance Palumbo; brother of John (Amy Morford) and Robert Palumbo. Bill is also survived by his mother-in-law, Maryellen Burns, as well as many nieces, nephews and countless friends. Bill was raised in Niagara Falls, NY, prior to moving to Grand Island, NY. He was a 1989 graduate of Grand Island Senior High School and earned his Bachelor's degree in Business Management from the University at Buffalo. He worked in Government services for over 27 years and was currently employed by the United States Department of the Treasury. Bill enjoyed swimming in his younger years, tending to his garden and going to the casino. Above all, he loved spending time with his cherished family who will miss him dearly. Visitation will be on Tuesday, September 28th, from 3-8 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Rd., Niagara Falls, NY. William's Mass of Christian Burial will be on Wednesday at 10:30 AM at St. Joseph's Church, 1413 Pine Ave., Niagara Falls, NY. Please assemble at church. Interment in St. Joseph's Cemetery. Memorial offerings may be made to Roswell Park Cancer Institute. Please visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.
Richard M. Paonessa - 72 years old, of Grand Island, NY, entered into rest, suddenly, on September 3rd, 2021. Richard was the son of the late Richard P. Paonessa and Josephine Paonessa and he was the brother of Janet Paonessa; he was also uncle to the late Micheal A. Paonessa Darnley and great-uncle to Michael A. Paonessa Darnley II, Dominic R. Paonessa Darnley and Madeline J. Paonessa. He was also a great-great-uncle to Dominic R. Paonessa Darnley II. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Stephens Church in Grand Island, NY, at 9:30 AM on October 1st, 2021.
Ann M. Hegarty - January 11, 2021. A Celebration of Life Mass will be held Saturday, September 25, at 9:30 AM, at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island.
Robert D. "Bob" Schmidt - September 9, 2021, at age 75, of Grand Island. Devoted husband of Judy Schmidt (nee Lexo); beloved father of Jennifer (Peter) Peresie, Laura (Johnny) Anderson, Thomas (Stephanie) Schmidt and the late Daniel Schmidt; cherished grandfather of David Fonzi, Melanie Anderson, Jacob Schmidt, Tyler Anderson, Kayla Schmidt, Aaron Noyes, Chelsea Schmidt, Zachary Peresie, Veronika Schmidt, Ashley Peresie, Hunter Schmidt; adored by loving brother James Schmidt; brother-in-law John Lexo; sister-in-law Nancy Lexo; and nephew Deven Bonvissuto; along with several great-grandchildren; son of the late James Schmidt and late Lorraine (Gellethien) Mathews.
Bob was a 1969 graduate of the University at Buffalo with a B.S. in Mathematics, and before retirement, was employed by Praxair as a Senior Programmer Analyst for nearly 30 years. An avid outdoorsman, and a life member of the Grand Island Rod and Gun club. Bob enjoyed fishing, hunting, and traveling across the country with his wife of 56 years, Judy. Near and far, Bob cared and connected with the individuals he met through his journey. Being in his presence brought wisdom and laughter. Those who knew him, considered themselves blessed. He will be deeply missed. Family and friends may call Wednesday, September 15th, 4-7 PM at The Falconwood Club, Beaver Island State Park, Grand Island, NY. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Boone and Crockett Club. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Joseph M. Sheehan - August 31, 2021. Son of the late Edward and Margaret Sheehan of Grand Island; loving partner of Elaine Martynkiewicz; devoted father to Claire and Bridget (Roman) Sheehan; dearest brother of the late Patricia (late Richard) Evans, late Timothy (Marion), Dr. Thomas (late Janet) and Brian (Sandi) Sheehan; also survived by many loving nieces, nephews and cousins; previously married to Dolores Sheehan. Joe was an avid fan of the NY Yankees, Buffalo Bills and the Cleveland Browns. He was a graduate of Canisius High School and the University of Buffalo. Joe was the owner of Valentine's Restaurant in downtown Buffalo from 1976 to 1990. He then taught as a Culinary Arts Instructor for 25 years in the Buffalo Public Schools. The family will be present Tuesday, September 7, 2021 from 4 to 7 PM at the (Delaware Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 1132 Delaware Avenue (near W. Ferry Street), where a Funeral Service will follow at 7 PM. Memorials may be made to the Meals on Wheels Foundation of WNY. Share condolences online at www.AMIGONE.com.
David Paul Wolgast - Age 79, Jonesborough, TN, passed away Monday, August 16, 2021, at Johnson City Medical Center. Mr. Wolgast was born in North Tonawanda, NY and the son of the late Paul and Mildred Bliss Wolgast. He was a United States Marine Corps Veteran. He was a member of the VFW and Tri-Cities Marine Corps League. Mr. Wolgast was an Insurance Underwriter for Travelers and Kemper Insurance Companies. He was also a Teaching Assistant at Tonawanda High School. He was a longtime board member of Buffalo and WNY Junior Soccer League. He coached soccer in Grand Island, Tonawanda, Cardinal O'Hara High School and Mount St. Mary's in New York and in Tennessee at Daniel Boone High School. He was also a referee for US Soccer and WNY and TN and was a life member of Western New York State Referee Association. Survivors include his wife, Janis Luther Wolgast; chil-dren, David, Jr. (Michelle) and Dustin (Karen); grandchildren, Madison, Sarah, Allyson, Samantha, Bekah and Johnna; and a brother, Tim (Roberta). In lieu of flowers, please consider a making a donation to Daniel Boone HS Marine Corps JROTC at 1440 Suncrest Dr., Gray, TN 37615, or Washington County Humane Society at https://wcjcanimalshelter.org or mail, 3411 N. Roan St., Johnson City, TN 37601. The family hosted a small gathering to celebrate David's life on Wednesday, August 25, 2021, at Dillow-Taylor Funeral Home. Condolences may be sent to the Wolgast family online at www.dillow-taylor.com. Dillow-Taylor Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Jonesborough, TN, 423-753-3821.
Vincent J. DiCarlo - August 22, 2021, of Grand Island, NY; loving husband of the late Jane (Warren) DiCarlo and the late Harriett (Rocconi) DiCarlo; dear father of Lucia (David) Holnbeck and Vincent J. (Karen) DiCarlo II ; stepfather of (late) Eve (late James) Hanny, Donna (Mark) Bennett, Lisa Henley and Carla (late Leon) Trzewiecynski; caring grandfather of Tammy, Joshua, Angelina; Annaliese, Eve, Kayleen and Mariella; Christopher, Shae, Ryan, Miles, Justin, Jason and Ariel; 13 great-grandchildren also survive; brother of (late) Concetta (late Donald) Evans and Frances (late Joseph) Fliss and Joe (Valerie) DiCarlo; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Wednesday, August 25th from 5-8:00 PM at the LESTER H. WEDEKINDT, Inc. FUNERAL HOME, 3290 Delaware Ave. and are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Timothy's RC Church on Thursday morning at 11:00. Mr. DiCarlo had been Regional Manager of Pinkerton Detective Agency, a member of the Erie County Sheriff Scientific Bureau, and was an avid outdoorsman. Please share memories online at www.lesterwedekindtfuneralhome.com.
Richard Charles Keller - Of Harding Township, NJ, and formerly of Grand Island and Buffalo, NY, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, May 4, 2020, after a long illness. He was 83 years old. Due to Covid restrictions, only a private viewing for the immediate family was held last year. Born in Buffalo, NY, on April 12, 1937, Richard was the beloved son of Walter F. Keller and Katherine D. Keller. As a young man, he attended high school at St. Joseph's Collegiate Institute, and was a competitive figure skater with the Buffalo Skating Club. He later enlisted in the Air National Guard and was stationed at Niagara Falls Air Force Base. Richard had a long and successful career with Marine Midland Bank (later HSBC), from where he retired as Executive Director in 1990. Richard is survived by his wife Diane; son Franz Keller and wife Christine; son Erik Keller and wife Gretchen; sister Mary Kay Schaab and husband William; sister Joan Fischer and husband Denis; and brother Bryan Keller and wife Ann. He is also survived by five grandsons, Benjamin, Ryan, Travis, Wyatt and Matthew. He is preceded in death by his parents Walter and Katherine Keller; brother Walter Keller, Jr.; and sister Patricia Martin. A Celebration of Life and Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 9:30 am on Saturday, August 28, 2021 at St. Stephen Roman Catholic Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, NY.
Raymond W. Pauley Sr. - August 17, 2021 of Grand Island. Husband of Garnet "Sam" Pauley. Father of Raymond (Karen) Pauley Jr., Scott Pauley, Lisa (Donald) McLeod and Jill (Tom) Proctor. Stepfather of Shawn (Tabitha) Senger and Kelly (Mark) Palamuso. Also survived by 14 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Brother of Joan Pauley and Glenn Pauley. Friends may call Thursday, August 19, 4-8 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, where funeral services will be held Friday at 11 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Grand Island Fire Company.
Buffalo News Obituary
Lorraine (nee Taboni) Schmidt - Of Grand Island, entered into rest August 16, 2021. Devoted mother of Andrew R. Schmidt, Jr., Christopher (Amanda) Schmidt and Amanda R. (Jim) Schmidt-Zirkle. Cherished grandmother of 11 grandchildren. Loving daughter of the late Peter Taboni, Sr. and Sharon Chipman. Dear sister of Marie (James) Janisch, Paul Taboni, Barbara Taboni, Rebecca (Louis) Taboni, Joseph (Amanda) Taboni and the late Peter (late Dawn) Taboni, Jr. Longtime companion of Alvin Foigelman. Also survived by nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends may visit the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Southtowns Chapel), 3060 Abbott Rd., near Lake Ave., on Friday, August 20th from 3-7 PM where a funeral service will immediately follow. Interment Holy Cross Lutheran Cemetery, Angola on Saturday at 9 o'clock. Share condolences online at www.lombardofuneralhome.com.
Luigi "Lou" D'Orazio - April 1, 2020, of Grand Island. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, August 21, at 2 PM at the Grand Island Fire Hall, 2275 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, with a reception to follow. The family requests that everyone attending wear a face covering.
Shirley M. (nee Simmance) Howard - Of Grand Island, NY. August 4, 2021, after a brief illness. Beloved wife of the late Roy Howard, Jr. Loving mother of Kelly (Christopher) Roulley, Roy III (Lisa) Howard and Allison (Tim) Papin; cherished gramma of Brendan Roulley, Owen, Aidan, and Nathan Howard. Caring sister of Wendy (Thomas) Thompson and Martin (Kathy Gottfried) Simmance. Also survived by several nieces and nephews. Survived by loving companions Jaxx and Jacy. A Memorial Picnic will be held at a later date. Please share condolences online at www.jerfh.com.
Albert L. Strasburg - a longtime resident of Niagara Falls & Grand Island, died August 2, 2021 in Winter Haven, FL at the age of 88. He was born to Albert F. Strasburg and Clara A. (Schultz) in the LaSalle section of the city. Albert graduated from LaSalle Senior High School and served a total of 7 years in two different branches of the military, first as an infantryman with Company A, 1st Battalion, 174th Infantry Regiment, NY National Guard and then as a damage controlman aboard the U.S. Navy's USS Burdo (APD-133) and USS Minos (ARL-14). His fondest memories were the Mediterranean cruises aboard Burdo where he & the crew trained Naval Academy midshipmen and French Foreign Legion commandos.
Albert was employed at Industrial Welding on Buffalo Ave. for over 20 years and then opened his own welding & fabricating business in the early 1970s located first on Packard Rd., then later Niagara Falls Blvd. Albert was an avid golfer and bowler. His business, Strasburg Welding & Fabricating, sponsored a Friday night bowling league for many years at the old Beverley Lanes on Military Road. He was active in veterans' organizations including the AMVETS and American Legion. His association with the Legion spanned over 70 years where he served in a variety of leadership positions at Post 1451 in Niagara Wheatfield including as post commander.
Albert was a member of Zion Evangelical & Grace Lutheran churches in LaSalle, and Grace Lutheran Church in Winter Haven, FL. He is predeceased by his parents; wives Donna Marie (Carli) & Sharon (Blake); seven siblings Charles, Robert, Donald, William, Richard, John "Jack," & Joanne Milleville; and step-daughters Wendy Foster & Christine Palmatier. Surviving are daughters Marla (Richard) Crawford of Grand Island & Janine (John) Nymann of Young, AZ; sons Albert of Tonto Basin, AZ, Donald of Winter Haven, FL; and John (Luisa) of Naples, FL; step-daughters Sherry (Ken) Snyder of Hamburg and Deanna Palmatier of Winter Haven, FL; grandchildren Donna Strasburg of Charleston, SC; Marissa (Brendan) Neill of Buffalo; Ian Shepard & Isaac Snyder both of Hamburg; and many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Monday, August 9th, 5-8 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island where funeral services will be held Tuesday at 10 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Lung Assoc. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Kathy (nee Robinson) Houck - November 8, 1957 - July 25, 2021. A classically trained ballerina who enlisted in the Marine Corps, Kathleen Houck nursed Kerr County Texas for over 20 years. Her time was spent playing with her grandchildren, riding her Harley, and visiting her friends. Kathy passed away in her sleep on Sunday, July 25, 2021. Kathy is survived by her sons, Justin and Micah; sisters, Dorthy, Donna, and Jennifer; brothers, John and Thomas; and four grandchildren. Her legacy is honored by those who knew her. She will forever be The Princess. Honor Guard and memorial will be held 2:30 PM, July 31, 2021 at 119 7th Street in Ingram, TX.
Dean Jason Nowak - July 14, 1966- July 22, 2021 Niagara Falls NY. Survived by a countless number of close friends, and loved by all of them. A memorial will take place at 100 Whitehaven Road, the Radisson Hotel at a later date. Friends will be notified when the memorial date is set.
Patricia Darlene (nee Vandyke) Smith - November 20, 2020, resident of Grand Island for over 60 years, moved here from Terre Haute, Indiana, and was a resident of Garden Gate Skilled Nursing in Cheektowaga since 2018. Wife of 55 years of William "Lee" Smith; mother of Lynn (Mark) Fotia and Terri (Dennis) Szafranski; grandmother of Vince and John Fotia; daughter of the late James VanDyke and Evelyn (late Joe "Luke") Lukasiewiez; sister of the late Steve VanDyke. A Private Memorial Mass will be held at St. Stephen Catholic Church, Grand Island on Saturday, July 31st at 9:30 a.m. The Mass will be live-streamed on the Churchwebsite https://www.ststephenswny.com/.
Roxie L. Gillespie - Of Big Pine Key, FL, July 7, 2021. Loving father of Jess (Marie) and Erin; grandfather of Luke; brother of Randie, Robbie, Penney (Glenn) Cipriano, Kristy (Michael) Musilli and Beth Ann Kendrick; son of the late Phyllis and John Smith and the late William Gillespie; also survived by many nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Roxie's Life was held at Keys Community Church, Big Pine Key, FL, on July 11, 2021. Donations can be made to Keys Community Church, 30572 Overseas Highway, Big Pine Key, FL 33043.
George F. Crowe Col. US Army Ret. - July 24, 2021, of Grand Island. Devoted husband of 64 years of Mary Ann (nee Kumro) Crowe. Loving father of Kate Olin, Peg (Randy) White, Daniel G. Crowe, Molly B. Grace and the late LTC Terrence K. Crowe. Dedicated grandfather of Jeremiah J. and Clara L. Crowe, Abigail C. and Kam Olin, Ryan D. (Mary), Patrick M., Margaret Mary, Kathleen Grace and Brigid H. White, Shannon and Casey Grace, and Sydney and Allison Crowe. Son of the late Joseph J. and Elsie Crowe. Brother of Elizabeth (Louis) Fetto. Friends may call Thursday, July 29th, 4-7 PM, at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, July 30th, at 9:30 AM, at St. Stephen's Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the George and Mary Ann Crowe Nursing Scholarship at Niagara University. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
William Andrew “Andy” Dannels - formerly of Grand Island, passed away on January 15, 2021 at the age of 92 in St. Petersburg, FL. Husband of the late Arline Dannels (who predeceased him in 1997), father of nine children, and beloved companion of Joan Heine, Andy was respected in the community and much loved by his family. A Memorial Mass will be held at 10am on Monday, August 2, at St. Peter’s RC Church, 620 Center Street, Lewiston, NY. Outdoor reception to follow later in the day, from 3:30 to 7:00 on Grand Island. Contact the family for details at 773-6250.
Steven James Sander - July 19, 2021, of Grand Island. Son of Marcy Sander-Acker. Brother of Richard (Audrey) Sander, Marie (Brian) Heisler and Cathy (Fred) Ruppel. Predeceased by his father James C. Sander, stepdad Albert Acker and brother James J. Sander. Survived by nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, one great-great-niece and his best friend Chris Beyer. He was the former owner of S.J. Sander Plumbing & Heating, and was the former President of Plumbing Contractors Association and Riverside Business Men's Association. Steve was a great lover of the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. Friends may call Friday, July 23rd 3-7 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Saturday, at 9:30 AM, at St. Stephen's Church. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Ronald Leonard "Ron" Gramza - Suddenly on July 18, 2021. Born on July 14, 1941 in Buffalo. Son of the late Leonard and Catherine (Hoffman) Gramza. He raised a family on Grand Island and lived his final years at the "Country Home" in Cattaraugus, NY. Husband of 52 years of Anna Maria (DiPasquale) Gramza. Brother of Patricia (Gramza) Vanderwalker, Michael Gramza and the late Albert Gramza. Father of Jeanne (Edward) (Heim) Goudreau, Dennis (Elena) Heim, Ronald (Lisa) Gramza and Amy (Joseph) Verost. Doting grandfather to Patricia Philpot, Christina (Heim) Leshney, AmyJo Verost, Emily Heim, Dominic Gramza, Robert Heim and Grace Gramza as well as to three great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind numerous friends at Lazy Acres Campground in Otto, NY. Ron proudly served his country in the Navy in the early 60's. He worked in carpentry and cabinetry for most of his life and spent his retirement years in his wood shop fashioning countless gifts for the people he loved. In his spare time he enjoyed visiting with friends and family. Friends may call Thursday 4-8 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Friday at 9:30 AM at St. Stephen's Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Frederick W. Halt - Of Grand Island, entered into rest July 14, 2021. Beloved husband of Patricia A (nee Mack) Halt. Devoted father of Hans (Tisa) Halt, Peter, MD (Rebecca Dyson, MD) Halt, Heidi (Sergio) Neglia and step-father of Patrick (Charlene) Pettit. Cherished grandfather of Nico, Elisabeta, Charlie, Clara, James, Jack and Natasha. Loving son of the late Irey and Clara Halt. Dear brother of the late Warren and Ray Halt. Also survived by nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends may visit the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME, (Northtowns Chapel) 885 Niagara Falls Blvd., near Eggert/Sheridan Dr., on Wednesday from 4-7 PM, where military honors and a funeral service will immediately follow. Frederick was an Air Force veteran serving during the Korean War, a retired musician with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra and a member of ISCOM and A.O.P.A. Flowers gratefully declined. If desired, contributions may be made to Hospice Buffalo, Inc., 225 Como Park Blvd., Cheektowaga, NY 14227. Condolences at www.lombardofuneralhome.com.
Wallace J. Gawoski - July 13, 2021, of Grand Island. Husband of Geraldine Gawoski. Father of Michael (Jules), Douglas (Dierdre) and Catherine Gawoski. Grandfather to Andrew and Aidan. Friends may call Friday 5-8 PM at Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Memorial Mass will be held Saturday at 9:30 AM at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island.
Phyllis Ann (nee Handley) Pierce - January 2, 2021, of Grand Island. A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, July 17, at 11:00 am ,at Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island. Immediately following the service, a luncheon reception will be held in the church family room. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a charity of your choice in Phyllis's name. Streaming of the Celebration of Life will be available at https://youtu.be/psajVM7L1Vo.
William L. and Olive O. Burch - William L., May 11, 2020, age 100. Olive O. (nee Lightfoot), February 17, 2021, age 99. Loving parents of Charles Burch, Lawrence (Joan) Burch and Roger (Deborah) Burch; cherished grandparents of Kelsey (Ronald) Reynolds and Colleen (Jonathan) Septor; adored great-grandparents of Oresta; also survived by nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life will be held on July 14, 2021, at 7 PM, at Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island Friends invited. Live Streaming of the Celebration of Life is available at: https://youtube/PjsgdVx1JSQ. Please share condolences online at www.GRECOFUNERAL.com.
John E. Karl - June 25, 2021, of Grand Island. Son of Gertrude M. and the late Bernard H. Karl; brother of Patricia A. Karl. Funeral services will be private. Arrangements by KAISER FUNERAL HOME.
Gloria F. (nee Sacco) Carlisi - June 24, 2021, beloved wife of 58 years to husband Roy J. Carlisi, Jr.: daughter of the late Frank and Josephine Sacco; sister of the late John Sacco, Patricia Cerruti and Frank (Anna Maria) Sacco Jr.: sister-in-law of the late Charles and Joseph (Roberta) Carlisi; loving mother of Dawn (Michael) Iacono, Robin Carlisi, Victoria (Frank) Widmoser, Roy (Jenne) Carlisi; devoted grandmother of Michael Jr., Joseph, Anthony, Nicholas, Julia, Anthony, Tessa, Carmella, Marina, Lucianna, Gina, Christina, Roy Jr. and Joseph; aunt to Frankie and Giovanni Sacco, Mel, Shawn and Michael Cerruti, David (Marietta) Carlisi, Cathy (Joseph) Carlisi-Popracki. Gloria, a former Buffalo and Grand Island resident, resided in Palm Coast, FL. A Memorial Mass will be offered at St. Stephen's Catholic Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island on Saturday, July 31st, at 11 AM. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Luke's Mission of Mercy, PO Box 448, Buffalo, NY 14215.
Constance S. "Connie" Hodick - Of Grand Island, NY, passed away on Tuesday, June 22, 2021, at her residence. She was born in Niagara Falls, NY, on November 29, 1947, the daughter of the late Chester F. and Mary (Capitan) Stepien. Mrs. Hodick graduated from Lewiston Porter High School and the Katharine Gibbs College in Boston. She was an administrative assistant with Moore Business Forms for over 25 years and later was employed by The Display Company in Amherst for many years.Mrs. Hodick was a member of the National Association of Secretaries of State. She loved spending time with her family, traveling, especially to Cape Cod and Bermuda and enjoyed gardening and cooking. Mrs. Hodick is survived by her husband of 47 years, Thomas A. Hodick; one brother Steven Stepien, two sisters Patricia (John) Clark and Mary (Kevin) Gilman; a brother-in-law John Ruffino; also numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and dear friends. She was the sister of the late Joseph Stepien and Carolyn Ruffino. Her family will be present on Tuesday, from 4-8 PM, at the RHONEY FUNERAL HOME, 901 Cayuga Street, LEWISTON, NY. Friends are invited to attend her Mass of Christian Burial on Wednesday, at 9:30 AM, at St. Stephen Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island, NY. Flowers are gratefully declined. Memorials may be made in her name to the Kidney Care at ECMC, 462 Grider Street, Buffalo, NY 14215.Visit www.rhoneyfuneralhome.com, for guest register.
Rolland Ross Miller - June 19, 2021, of Grand Island. Loving husband of the late Nida Smith Miller, father of Donna (Peter) Alway, David (Debby) and Tina (Nicole) Miller; grandfather of Philip and Garrett Alway, John Summer, Jacqueline Miller Pico, Richard, Lauren and Mary Corinne Miller, Ashley Brenton and Cole Fischer; and survived by numerous great grandchildren. Rolland grew up in Tonawanda, the son of Archie and Ina Miller; brother of eight siblings; and graduated from Tonawanda High School. He served in WWII commencing in 1942 and was commissioned in the USNR as a Naval Aviator and Officer. He saw service as a pilot in the Pacific from 1944-45 and was separated from active duty in December 1945. He thereafter served periodically in the Naval Reserves, including tours to France, Spain and Morocco, Africa and was Honorably Discharged as LTJG in December, 1959. He graduated from Morrisville Technical College, in 1949 with a degree in Horology and then operated Rolland's Jewelers in Tonawanda, into the 1980's. He later resumed a prior occupation as a machinist with Taylor Devices in Tonawanda, until his retirement. An avid recreational sailor, hunter, and fisherman, Rol loved the outdoors and boating. He particularly enjoyed black powder competition shooting, and participated actively into his 98th year. A Memorial Service will be conducted on Saturday, July 17, 2021 at 2:30 PM, at Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, with a reception to follow. Please share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Salvatore A. "Sam" Palmiere - Age 82, of Ft. Lauderdale, FL, passed away on May 29, 2021, the day after his 82nd birthday. Sam was born in Buffalo, NY, on May 28, 1939. He graduated from Kenmore High School, and grew up in Riverside, NY. At the age of 24, he married Patricia "Pat" (Ferri) on July 15,1963, and they were married for just shy of 58 years. They lived on the West Side in Buffalo, where they had two daughters, and later moved to Grand Island, where they lived for 25 years until they retired. Sam worked for Bethlehem Steel, and then spent 30 years working for General Motors in Tonawanda, NY, before he and Pat retired to Fort Lauderdale in 2000. He enjoyed horse racing, good food, music and dancing, and spending time with family and friends. He had a larger-than-life personality, and was an icon in the family. Sam is survived by his wife, Pat, his daughters Roslyn (Richard) Harris and Cheryl (William) Morgan, his sister Anna Holt, his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces and nephews who have many fond memories of great times together. Sam is preceded in passing by his parents, Michael and Phyllis (Pierro) Palmiere, as well as his sister, Josephine Franklin. The family has compiled a tribute filled with memories of Sam that can be viewed at https://bit.ly/3zu7MIh.
Adam P. Riley - Of Grand Island, NY suddenly June 14, 2021. Beloved son of Lawrence J. Riley. Devoted father of Samantha (David) Kennedy and Miranda Riley; proud grandfather of three grandchildren; loving brother of Lawrence J. Riley Jr.; survived by his loving extended family of Linda Benns, Sharon (Robert) Kish, David (Lynn) Riley, Patricia (Frank) Pfonner and John (Amanda) Riley. Cousins, John Jr. and Chris Sr. Benns who he grew up with. Also survived by other numerous cousins, nieces and nephews; predeceased by his loving custodial grandparents Mary and Clinton Riley and uncle James Riley. Relatives and friends may call Monday June 21st, 5-7 PM at the Lester H. Wedekindt, Inc., Funeral Home, 3290 Delaware Ave., where a funeral service will be held at 6:30 PM. Please share your condolences online at www.lesterwedekindtfuneralhome.com REST IN PEACE, WE LOVE AND MISS YOU.
Konrad Maerz - June 17, 2021, of Grand Island. Husband of 57 years of the late Elisabeth Maerz; father of Siegfried (Susan) Maerz, Gisela (Peter) Weidelich and Frieda Maerz; grandfather of Nathan (Christina) Maerz, Sigrid (Isaac) Chapman, Dianne (Scott) Brooks, David (Andrea) Weidelich, Lindsey (Kevin) Baker, Daniel and Michael (Mayoli) Weidelich; also survived by 17 great-grandchildren, a sister Barbara Eichel and five siblings in Germany. Friends may call Monday, June 21, 5-8 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral Services will be held Tuesday at 11 AM at Cornerstone Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo or CRU (Campus Crusade for Christ). Share condolences at to kaiserfuneral.com.
June A. Valenzuela (December 6) & Luis A. Valenzuela M.D. (December 23) - of Grand Island. After months of grieving and careful adherence to Covid protocols, the children of June and Luis Valenzuela now invite friends to a Celebration of Life to be held on Thursday, July 8, 2021 at 10 AM at Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Rd, Grand Island, NY 14072. A reception will immediately follow. Please bring your fondest memories of Luis and June to share with family and friends. Lisa (Mark) Moore, Sara Calabrese, Michael (Laurie) Valenzuela, David Valenzuela and Marta (Stephen) Rodin.
Bruce H. Gentz - Of Grand Island, passed from this earthly life to enter eternal life with our Lord on May 23, 2021. He was 89. He was the loving husband of Carolyn Gentz (nee Webb) and father of David Gentz of Grand Island and John Gentz, who predeceased him. He was the proud grandfather of Kathryn and Philip Gentz and enjoyed many loving nieces and nephews. He worked for many years in auto repair and owned Grand Island Automotive, Inc. He was well known for his photographic skills and won awards as a member of Twin Cities Camera Club. Bruce was a past President of Rotary Club of Grand Island. He enjoyed the family cottage, camping and being outdoors. He served in the US Navy aboard the aircraft carrier Midway during the Korean War. Bruce was an active member of Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, where services will be held Saturday, June 26th, at 2 PM. Live streaming of the service available online https://youtu.be/uX8J5zuXJIQ. The family wishes to thank Trinity United Methodist Church, the Grand Island Fire Co. Rescue Squad, his devoted aides and Hospice Buffalo for their support. Memorial gifts may be made in lieu of flowers. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Louis A. Macro - June 8, 2021, of Grand Island. Beloved husband of Cheryl Macro (nee Klocke) and the late Gay Macro (nee Walker). Loving father of Lee Ann Obenauer, David (Katherine) Macro Sr. and Amy (James) Mount. Caring stepfather to Marie (Joseph) McGuigan and Mark Klocke. Attentive and loving grandfather to Michelle, David Jr., Grace, Jackson and Sophia. Son of the late Anthony and Mary (nee Cirillo) Macro and cherished brother of Dennis C. (Mary Jo) Macro, Larry (Marsha) Macro, Anthony P. (Mary) Macro, Jr. Louis was the owner of Grand Island Optical for over 40 years. He's a former Grand Island Citizen Of The Year and a member of the Lion's Club for many years. He will be fondly missed by family, friends, and the many patients he cared for over the years. The family will greet visitors following a Memorial Mass to be held at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, on Friday, June 18th at 9:30 AM. A live stream will be available at https://www.ststephenswny.com/. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo, Inc. Please share condolences at Kaiserfuneral.com.
Robert C. Hefner - Of Grand Island, NY, entered into rest on June 10, 2021 after a lengthy illness at age 72. Beloved husband of Peggy J. (Lesaar) Hefner; dearest father of Robert W. and William H. (Celina) Hefner; son of the late William A. and Ruth A. E. (Kidell) Hefner; brother of William A. (Patricia) Hefner; uncle of Michelle (Scott) Smith. No prior visitation. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions may be made to the Grand Island Fire Company. Arrangements made by: ERIE COUNTY CREMATION SERVICE, 824-6435. Please share your condolences online at: www.eriecountycremationservice.com.
William "Kester" Bleich - April 10, 2020, of Grand Island. Husband of 65 years of Jean (Webb) Bleich; father of Wayne (Tricia), Debbie, Bryan (Audrey) and Cindy Bleich; grandfather of Justin Bleich, Ashley (Jason) Koelle, Alexandria (Joey) Shanor, Kristin and Nicholas Bleich, George (Laura) and Joseph (Valerie) Abraham; predeceased by one sister and one brother. A celebration of life will be held Friday, June 18th at 6:00 p.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Rd, Grand Island. Memorials may be made to the Charles DeGlopper Memorial Expansion Fund c/o VFW Post 9249.
William Michael Tompkins - 23, of Grand Island, NY, passed away on June 5, 2021 as a result of a motorcycle accident. Born in Grand Island, NY, he was the son of William C. and DeeAnn (DiMeo) Tompkins. In addition to his loving parents, William is survived by his sister, Gracie Jean Tompkins; his maternal grandparents, Virginia DiMeo and Francis P. (Virginia Ackerman) DiMeo, and paternal grandparents Kenneth C. (Charlotte) Tompkins; his loving companion, Alyssa Gowe; his maternal uncle, Michael A. DiMeo, and paternal aunts and uncles, Mary (David) McCormick, Christopher (Sue) Tompkins, Kenny (Terry) Tompkins, Anne Marie (Bob) Algier, Daniel (Lynne) Tompkins, Joseph (Angel) Tompkins; 16 cousins, as well as several great-aunts and uncles. He was predeceased by his uncle, Frank M. DiMeo. Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 10, from 2-7 PM, at M.J COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY 14304. William's Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, at 10:30 AM, at St. Joseph's Church, 1413 Pine Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY 14301. Interment in Riverdale Cemetery, Lewiston, NY. If desired, memorial offerings may be made to Canisius High School, 1180 Delaware Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14209, or to a charity of one's choice. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.
Korey Michael DiMatteo - On Wednesday, June 2, 2021, Korey Michael loving son, brother, uncle, and friend went home to be with Jesus at the age of 29. Korey was born September 25, 1991 in Syracuse, NY, the youngest son of Louis and Karen (Kincaid) DiMatteo. Korey was predeceased by his grandparents, Philip and Josephine DiMatteo and Lawrence and Janice Kincaid. He leaves behind parents, Louis and Karen, who love him more than words can express. He is also survived by his siblings, James, Tiffany, Louis, Nicholas (Laura), and Shayna (Ryan) Clarke. He was the cherished, fun Uncle Korey to Kasey, Natalie, JT, Grayson, Kenley, Gavin, Scottlyn and Charlie Marie. He is also survived by his Godparents, Robert and Karol Sanguine, and many aunts, uncles and cousins. Korey lived a life full of love -- love for his family and love for his friends. No amount of words could express his generosity toward others, oftentimes exceeding his means. He cared deeply about everyone who came into his life and always helped those in need. He will be remembered for his deep-rooted passion for music, his desire to rescue any animal in need and hitting "big bombs" on the golf course. Calling hours will be held from 4-8 PM Wednesday, June 9 at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral services will be held at 11 AM Thursday, June 10 at the Chapel at Crosspoint in Getzville, NY. Share condolences at www.kaiserfuneral.com.
Roxanna M. (nee Angelo) Russell - Born January 18, 1936 Waverly NY, born to Eternal life May 18, 2021. Devoted wife of David W. Russell. Loving Mother of Rosanna M. Russell (together in Heaven), Theresa G. Giambra, David R. (Kellie) Russell. Doting Grandmother of Anthony, Rosalie, Michael, Grace, Joseph, Max, Tyler. Great grandmother of Luciana M. Russell. Her home and family raised on Grand Island, Roxanna was foster Mother to nine children, religious education teacher at St. Stephen's RC Parish, and school bus driver for Grand Island Central School District until her retirement. A Mass to celebrate her precious time here will be held Saturday, June 12 at 11 AM at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Richard A. Lozo - June 3, 2021, of Grand Island. Husband of Joanne (nee Trautman) Lozo; father of Richard (Amber Gilmer) Lozo Jr., Lisa Lozo and Christine (Dana) Iser; grandfather of Kaitlyn Lozo, Eric Sander and Robert Arch; brother of Linda (Bill Derwin) Lozo and JoAnn (Mark) Hassan; son of the late Clifford and Esther Lozo. Friends may call Sunday 2-6 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island where funeral services will be held Monday at 10:30 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Parkinson's Foundation or the DeGlopper Memorial. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Richard "Rick" Karnath - of Grand Island, NY sank his final putt on June 1, 2021. He was the dedicated son of Edward and Becky Karnath of Elma, NY; beloved husband of 43 years to Denise (Bertoia); cherished father of Michael (Cassie) and Christian; adored grandpa of Nicholas and Gianna. He is survived by loving siblings Stephen (Lilliam), James (Kathleen), Edward (Susan), Jonathan, Joseph (Brenda), and Mary (Scott) Weltjen; dear brother-in-law of Ronald and Lynda Bertoia; also survived by an aunt, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. Friends are welcome on Tuesday, June 8 4-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Celebration of his Life will be held at St. Stephen's Church, Grand Island on Wednesday, June 9 at 9:30AM. Donations to the National Kidney Foundation, 1344 University Avenue, Suite 270, Rochester, NY 14607, may be made in Rick's loving memory. GO BILLS! Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
William A. Crouse - Of Grand Island, entered into rest suddenly May 29, 2021. Beloved husband of Tracey L. (nee Hemperly) Crouse; devoted father of Jessyca Baker, Wesley Haynie, Vanessa Haynie and Celeste Haynie; cherished grandfather "Pa" of Jaxson William and Joanah Richard Ciccarelli; loving son of William Crouse and Sandra LoVallo; adored son-in-law of Richard and Joann Johnson; dear brother of Brian Joseph, Michelle Lynn, Shane, Joel and Eric Crouse; also survived by his beloved dog, Bruno "Buddy-Buddy," his cool cat Uno "Meow-Meow" many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Relatives and friends may visit the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northtowns Chapel), 885 Niagara Falls Blvd., near Eggert/Sheridan Dr., on Saturday from 8 AM-10 AM, where a Funeral Service will immediately follow. Interment Elmlawn Cemetery. Please share your condolences and memories at www.lombardofuneralhome.com.
Susan C. (nee Fleischman) Morningstar - of Niagara Falls, NY formerly of Grand Island passed away on May 22, 2021. She is the daughter of Marilynn (David) Strong of Eustis, FL and the late Burton Fleischman. Beloved Mother to Jeffrey (Amy) Morningstar, Keith Morningstar, and Jeremy Forbes. Dear sister of Karen (Bob) Mogge, James (Chad) Fleischman, and the late Sandra Fleischman (Mark Hawes). Proud Grandmother to Emily, Abigail, and Megan Morningstar. Susan enjoyed listening to music (Frank Zappa, Genesis, Pink Floyd etc), boating, camping, spending time with family and friends. She will be missed dearly.
Beth Ann (Kavanaugh) Trifiletti - 63, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2021, at her home in Eagan, Minnesota, under hospice care. Beth was born October 8, 1957, in Niagara Falls, New York, to Paul and Margret (McQuillan) Kavanaugh. She was the loving Mother of Anthony James Trifiletti. Stepmother to Paul Jr. (Nancy), Nicole, Michael (Corey) Trifiletti, and five grandchildren. She is also survived by her Best Friend, Paul Trifiletti, her mother-in-law Mrs. G. Trifiletti, her six siblings, Rick (Rose) Kavanaugh, Pete (Michelle) Kavanaugh, James, Gail, and Patricia Kavanaugh, and Joan Piasecki, several nieces and nephews, and great-nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Beth is predeceased by her beloved grandmother Nana, her siblings, Linda Foster, John, and Gary Kavanaugh. Services will be private, at the convenience of the family. Donations in Beth’s honor can be made to Hospice of the Midwest 7616 Currell Blvd, Suite 175, Woodbury, MN, 55125.
Albert E. Knab - combat veteran and Grand Island businessman died peacefully May 24th after a brief illness. Albert was the son of the late Frank and Agnes (Lavocat) Knab and predeceased by brothers William, Eugene, Rev. Frank, Edward, and Anthony and sister Mary (Paul) Snyder. He is survived by sisters Elizabeth (William) Eichorn and Dolores (Andrew) Adam and Theresa (Jack) Brennan. Beloved father to sons Edward (Sophie), William (Ines), Richard (Sheryl), Joseph (Sandra) of Grand Island and daughters Janet Biddlecomb of Medina, Ohio, Judy Knab (Peter Fahrer) of Tonawanda and the late Carol (James) Chretien of California. Also survived by cherished grandchildren and great grandchildren.
In 1943, during World War II, at age 18, Albert enlisted in the United States 8th Air Force and trained for aerial combat with B-17's as a ball turret gunner. He was assigned to the 447th Bomb Group B-17 Flying Fortresses on strategic bombardment missions out of Rattlesden, Suffolk, England. Their main focus was hitting sites that would weaken enemy forces by attacking ports, airfields and marshaling yards. He took part in the battles and campaigns in Ardennes, Rhineland and Central Europe. His service to his country was among Albert's proudest achievements.
In October of 2012, Albert participated in Honor Flight Buffalo to visit the World War II memorial that was built in honor of the soldiers and veterans of World War II. He said the experience was one of the best moments of his life.
Upon honorable discharge, Albert came home, began working in the excavation business until he started his own company in 1948 with his younger brother Edward called Knab Brothers. He was a member of International Union of Operating Engineers Local 17 working on various sites in Lewiston, North Tonawanda and the city of Tonawanda where he took on one of his toughest jobs completing a 200 ft. bore under double Conrail tracks. Knab Brothers was also active in clearing land and preparing for numerous subdivisions on Grand Island. His sons, William, Richard and Joseph joined him in the business and continue the work begun by their father.
When not working, Albert enjoyed getting together with family and friends, enjoyed hunting and fishing, was an avid golfer, water and snow skier, and biked well into his 80's. Visitation will take place at Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd. Grand Island, on Thursday from 4pm to 8pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Stephen's Church Friday at 9:30 am. Flowers are gratefully declined. Please share condolences at Kaiserfuneral.com.
Myron E. Lewis, Ed.D. - Of Grand Island, NY, May 17, 2021. Husband of Anne (Conn) Lewis. Father of Gregory J. (Maureen) Lewis and late Jeffrey J. Lewis. Father-in-law of Reiko Lewis. Grandfather of Catherine, Timothy, Koko and Niki. Myron was the founder and chairman of the Department of Technology at Buffalo State College, was a past member of the Grand Island School Board and a Korean War Veteran. A Mass will be held at the family's convenience. Memorials may be made to the National MS Society. Words of sympathy may be shared at www.LaingFuneralHome.com.
Patrick M. Ignatius, MD - May 15, 2021, of Grand Island. Husband of the late Susan (nee Tutuska) Ignatius. Father of Christopher (Kimberly) and Catherine Ignatius. Grandfather of Ella and Harrison Ignatius. Predeceased by five siblings. Friends may call Wednesday, 4-8 PM, at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday at 9:30 AM, at St. Stephen's Church. Dr. Ignatius was known to his colleagues, patients, friends and family as a compassionate, caring person. People loved speaking with him because of his knowledge and intellect. He held a private practice at Niagara Falls Memorial Hospital where he practiced cardiology for 47 years. He loved playing golf, watching movies, traveling and talking about history. He will be dearly missed. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
James Purpora - Of Grand Island, entered into rest on May 8, 2021. Beloved husband of Donna (nee Abbatoy) Purpora; devoted, loving and selfless father of Jim (Trena), Kathy (Mark) and Steven (Samantha); cherished grandfather of Garidon, Alexis, Dominic, Steven, Julia, Francesca and Alexandra; loving and supportive brother to Joann (Bill) and Janet (Wayne); brother-in-law to Dan (Charlene) and Dave (Cynthia), former wife Rita; also survived by aunts, uncle, nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island on Saturday (May 22nd) at 9:30 AM. In lieu of flowers, donations requested for a memorial stone in his name. Please send donations to Hospice of Buffalo, 225 Como Park Blvd., 14223. Arrangements by LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northtowns Chapel). Condolences may be offered online at www.lombardofuneralhome.com.
Carolyn M. (nee Maranto) Mazzara - Of Grand Island, NY, entered into rest May 13, 2021. Beloved wife of the late Martin J. Mazzara; devoted mother of Maria, Martin (Lorry), Michael (Linda) and Salvatore (Gina) Mazzara; adored grandmother of Anthony (Brooke), Martin, Gabrielle, Joseph, Michael Jr., Ella, Victor, Lucia and Adriana; cherished great-grandmother of Valentino and Luca; loving daughter of the late Carl and Marie Maranto; dear sister of Carl (Paula) and Jacquelyn Maranto. Friends and relatives visit the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Snyder Chapel), 4614 Main St., near Harlem Rd., on Sunday 3-7 PM, where prayers will be said Monday morning at 8 o'clock. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday at St. Michael's Church, 651 Washington St., Buffalo, NY, at 10 o'clock. Interment Forest Lawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice Buffalo, Inc. PURSUANT TO NYS COVID-19 GUIDELINES, FACE COVERINGS ARE REQUIRED. Please share your condolences and memories at www.lombardofuneralhome.com.
Linda L. (nee Kramer) Strough - Age 70 of North Tonawanda and formerly of the City of Tonawanda and Grand Island, May 5, 2021. Wife of 50 years to Robert G. Strough, Jr., daughter of the late LeGrand and Jacqueline Kramer and sister of Richard (Linda) Kramer and Suzanne (late Bob) Hoy. Also survived by many close special nieces and nephews. Linda was a 1968 graduate of Tonawanda High School and a graduate of Trocaire College with her Bachelors Degree in Nursing. Linda had been employed by the American Red Cross for more than 30 years and was a member of Salem United Church of Christ. The family will receive relatives and friends on Thursday May 13th from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at JOHN 0. ROTH FUNERAL HOME, INC., 25 William St. (cor. of Morgan and Broad Sts.) in Tonawanda, where a Memorial Service will be conducted at 8:00 PM following the visitation. Everyone welcome. Please be mindful that face coverings and social distancing will be required. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Salem United Church of Christ, 114 Morgan St., Tonawanda, NY 14150. Condolences may be shared at www.ROTHFUNERAL.com.
Memorial Service - There will be a memorial service for our mother, Susan Chadwick Robinson who passed away December 30, 2020. A celebration of this amazing life will be held on Friday May 28, 2021 at 11am at St Stephens RC Church on Grand Island. An upbeat reception with food and drinks will immediately follow at Sandy Beach Yacht Club. Bring your favorite stories about Sue and come prepared to laugh and gather among friends and family as we celebrate this remarkable woman.
James Grant Chapman - Age 72, of Grand Island, unexpectedly May 1st, 2021. Father of Michelle (Tony) Cioppa, Jill (Shane) Baes and James R. Chapman; grandfather of Ian, Aidan, Nathan, Owen, Xion, Kyrah, Savina and Miura, their grandmother Maureen Janik, son of the late James H. and Betty Chapman; brother of William Chapman and the late Nancy Jero; also survived by many nieces, nephews, God children and close friends. James was a Harley enthusiast and enjoyed his retirement chauffeuring wine tours and many other events. He also enjoyed spending time with his loving cats Newton and Scout. The family will receive relatives and friends on Thursday, May 6th, from 4-8 PM, including a Prayer Service at 8 PM, following the visitation at JOHN O. ROTH FUNERAL HOME, INC., 25 William St. (between Morgan and Broad Sts.), in Tonawanda. Please be mindful that face coverings and social distancing will be required. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in memory of James may be made to Ten Lives Foundation.org. Online condolences may be shared at www.ROTHFUNERAL.com.
Joseph W. Lawrence - Entered into God's loving care April 22, 2021, after a short illness. He was the youngest of four children and is survived by his two brothers and one sister. He has three daughters, Susan Matheis, Lisa Lawrence and Kathy Lawrence, six grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He loved spending time with his family and friends, fishing, trap shooting, sitting on the deck having a beer and loved his church family. He was loved by so many and will be dearly missed. A visitation with family will be held at D. LAWRENCE GINNANE FUNERAL HOME, 3215 Delaware Ave., Kenmore, Tuesday (May 4th) from 5-8 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered Wednesday (May 5th), at St. Stephen's RC Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, at 9:30 AM. Meet at church. Required face masks, social distancing and capacity requirements will be followed. Flowers gratefully declined, donations to Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America (www.myasthenia.org) would be appreciated. Condolences may be sent to www.ginnanefuneralhome.com.
Mark R. Stark - Of Grand Island, NY, April 30, 2021, at age 64. Loving son of the late Joseph and Dorothy Stark; dear brother of Paul (Gail) and John (Noreen) Stark; devoted uncle of Michael and the late John Stark; nephew of Betty (late Dan) Danwin; also survived by cousins. Visitation at KOLANO FUNERAL HOME, 396 Amherst St. (near Grant St.), Monday 4-8 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at Assumption Church, 435 Amherst St., Tuesday at 9:30 AM. Please assemble at church and keep in mind face coverings and social distancing are required. Entombment St. Stanislaus Cemetery. Mark was retired from GM Tonawanda. Donations in Mark's memory may be made to the Assumption Church Preservation Fund. Please share condolences online at www.KOLANOFUNERALHOME.com.
Bobby Vincent Fraser - April 29, 2021, of Grand Island. Life partner and best friend of the late Valerie (Glosser) Fraser; proud father of Jeremy (Nadine) Fraser, Rachael (Fred) Hahn, Renee (Billy) Gugino, Bobby (Dawn) Fraser, Adriane (Gordy) Vanthoff and Jackie (Anthony) Verdi; proudest papa of 15 grandchildren; predeceased by his parents, a brother and one grandson. Services private at a later date. Please share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Marcella A. Buell - April 26, 2021, of Grand Island. Wife of the late George A. Buell; loving mother of Patrick S. (Teresa) Buell, Michael V. Buell, Barbara A. (the late Mark) Brown and Katie Buell; grandmother of Talis, April, Kevin and Madison; also survived three great-grandchildren and her cat Sammy; sister of Ronald, Robert, Joseph and the late Daniel McNamee Jr.; daughter of the late Dan and Maxine (Proulx) McNamee. Friends may call Thursday 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 at 9:30 AM at St. Stephen's Church (go to St. Stephen's web site to watch funeral Mass live). Flowers welcome. Mrs. Buell was a former Niagara Water Ski Queen, a retired longtime Grand Island school bus driver, a reader at St. Stephen's Church and cooked for the Priests at the St. Stephen's Rectory. She was a longtime Grand Island Moose member and enjoyed cooking, baking, family, traveling, her pets, zip lining and loved to crochet. She enjoyed visiting the Grand Island Golden Age Center with her friends, and the Lunch Bunch. She was a homemaker, former life guard and worked in the Fantasy Island Beer tent and also in uniform control. She was an avid picture taker. Please share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Jerry A. Kaczmarek - 83, passed away peacefully in his sleep on April 21, 2021. He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years Constance, his three children; Mark Kaczmarek (Margie), Michele Rathmann (the late Mark) and Matthew Kaczmarek (Christine Prizzi), brothers Robert G. Kaczmarek & Anthony "Tony" R. Kaczmarek. He is also survived by four grandchildren, Jacqueline Clare (Donald Singleton),Cory Clare (Michelle), Amanda Brown (Andrew), Nicholas Kaczmarek, David Wolfe (Amanda), several nieces & nephews and ten great grandchildren.
Jerry is a Past Master of Grand Island Lodge 1138 in New York and Past Patron of Grand Island Chapter Order of the Eastern Star. His also a military veteran and he served in Germany. Tribute Wall
Catherine M. (nee Roman) Chapman - April 23, 2021, of Grand Island. Wife of Robert L. Chapman; mother of Victor Shores, Christopher M. (Kimberly) Shores, Vincent (Jamie) Shores, Robert (Trisha) Chapman Jr. and Scott (Jodi) Chapman; also survived by 14 grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews; sister of Marjorie (Tony) DeJames, Sally (the late Bill) Maund, Mathew (Fran) Roman, Gina (Dale) Maness and Francis (Cindy) Roman. Friends may call Monday and Tuesday 3-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday at 9:30 AM at St. Stephen's Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Jeanne Emily (nee Verville) Anstett - May 10, 2020, of Grand Island. Wife of Wayne Anstett; mother of John Anstett, Susan (Peter Jr.) Marston, Michael (Kristen) and the late David (survived by wife Lynn) Anstett; grandmother of Jordan, Drew, Dylan, Peter III, Kayla, Joshua, Christopher and Allison; great-grandmother of Jenna, Hailey, Cash, Brooklyn and Levi. Sister of Paul (Kim) and Richard (Lourie) Verville and the late Elaine Wiswell; sister-in-law of Katherine Anstett; also survived by many nieces and nephews. A memorial Mass will be celebrated Saturday, May 1, 2021 at 11 AM at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. Memorials may be made to the Grand Island Golden Age Center. Following the Mass the family will receive friends at a reception at the Knights of Columbus Hall on Whitehaven Rd.
Larry G. Braddell - Of Grand Island, passed away April 17, 2021 at the age of 69. Loving father to his three sons Larry, Scott and Bryan. Grandfather to Jake, Nathan, Patrick, Brayden and Lexi; son of the late A. James and Edna Braddell; brother to John (Linda), Eileen (Michael) Dowd, Nina (Martin), Nancy (Bill) Gorrell, Mary Ann (Robert) Stawitzky, Edward (Peggy), Edna, the late Janet Redinger and A. James Braddell, Jr. Larry was born in Buffalo July 14, 1951. He was a lifelong resident of Grand Island. Larry was known as a loyal friend to many, who could make strangers laugh with his quick wit. He loved the outdoors, where he spent time fishing, golfing and observing nature. He was a successful restaurant entrepreneur for many years, opening two restaurants on Grand Island. Most recently, the Pepper Mill and previously, West River Restaurant and Lounge. His tireless work ethic and ability to connect with people were keys to his success in the challenging restaurant industry. He left his friends and family with many great memories and laughter that will last a lifetime. A private memorial service to honor his life will be held at a later date. Please share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
William J. Nardone - April 16, 2021, formerly of Lewiston, NY, Grand Island resident of twenty years. Known as "BJ" by all who love him, devoted son of William (deceased) and Maureen Nardone(Crowe). BJ graduated from Hamilton College in 1985 with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and received his Masters of Business Administration from the University of Rochester, Simon School of Business in 1987. He worked for HSBC Bank USA from 1987 to 2016 in finance, information technology, and audit, rising to Assistant Vice President, Model Analyst in the bank's anti-money laundering division, where he successfully identified fraud transactions that led to the apprehension of perpetrators. He was highly skilled in financial analysis, business analytics, and systems development and programming. An accomplished, self-taught musician in piano and guitar, BJ could play every Beatles song ever written and delighted family and friends with frequent renditions. Fluent in French, he was an avid world traveler and his love of language and almost eidetic memory enhanced his ability to memorize and recite classic poetry, routinely complete the NY Times crossword puzzle in record time, and ace Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune puzzles each evening (he considered letters "a crutch"). He will be remembered for his mental acuity, amiability and warmth, endearing sense of humor, and unending intellectual curiosity. Beloved husband of Patricia Nardone (Finney); loving brother of Elizabeth Fiorica (Nardone); cherished uncle of Thomas, Michael, Peter and Will; loved by numerous in-laws including Norman Fiorica; Mike, Kevin, Sarah, Patrick and Delia Finney; and Lee, Donna (Finney, deceased), Chris, Jessica, and Megan (Hooven) Brownschidle; adored by furbabies Edgar and Allan. Friends may call Tuesday 4-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday at 9:30 AM at St. Stephen's a Church. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Sean R. Duff - April 11, 2021, of Grand Island. Son of Michael and Kathleen (nee King) Duff; brother of William (Jessica) Duff, Christopher (Kimberly) Duff and MaryKate (Michael) Bonning; uncle of Andrew, McKenna, Edmund, Brendan, Ivy and Silas; grandson of Gloria and the late Thomas Duff, and the late Eugene and Katherine King; nephew of David Duff. Friends may call Thursday, 6-8 PM, at Bible Fellowship Center, 1136 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, where Funeral Services will be held Friday, at 10 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Health). Please share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Arlene (nee Wiechec) VeRost - March 25, 1946 - April 13, 2021, at 75, of Grand Island. Beloved wife of Gary VeRost; devoted mother of Todd (Kimberly), Scott, Mark and Brett; adored grandmother of Jordan, Madison, Jenna, Erica, Jacob, Julia, Brooke, Karina, Matthew, Gabriella and Carson; dear sister to Nancy (the late Gene) Snopkowski and Dolores Severino; lifelong friends to Club Group Linda, Peggy, Noreen, Judi, Kathy and Sharon. Longtime Vikings fan and employee of Kaegebein Elementary. Visitation Friday, April 16, 4-8 PM, at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, April 17, at 9:30 AM, at St. Stephens Church. Interment Assumption Cemetery. Memorials to Hospice Buffalo or the Epilepsy Assoc. of WNY. Please share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Ricky D. Whitmire - April 10, 2021 of Grand Island, New York. Beloved husband of the late Peggy (nee Minton); dearest father of Scott (Kelly), Jennifer (Robert) Galvano, Daniel (Jennifer) and Ricky Jr. (Keri); cherished grandfather of nine; brother of Wendy Whitmire and the late Sharon Palmer and Ronald Whitmire and beloved brother-in-law and uncle. Family present Wednesday, April 14th, 4-8 PM, at DENGLER, ROBERTS, PERNA FUNERAL HOME, 3070 Delaware Avenue, Kenmore, New York. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Bible Fellowship Center, 1136 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, Thursday, at 11 AM. Please assemble at the church. Condolences may be shared at www.denglerrobertspernafuneral.com.
Julia (nee Halicki) Greco - Age 72, of Grand Island, entered into rest on March 26, 2021, after a short, but courageous battle with COVID. Beloved wife and soulmate of Frank; adored mother of Marla (Erik) Decker, Janine Greco and Monica Greco; doting grandmother to Sam and Elliot; dear sister to Winnie (James) Bobeck, James (Melinda) Halicki, Hank (Christine) Szpak, and the late Thomas Halicki, Marlene Hemingway, and Joan Tenhagen; daughter of the late Edward and Harriett Halicki; also survived by many nieces, nephews, friends and extended family.
After high school, Julie worked for New York Telephone for 11 years before leaving to raise her family. Later, she fulfilled her dream to go back to school and obtained a degree from Niagara County Community College in Communications. Her career included starting Jewel Desktop Publishing and becoming the head of the Niagara Wellness Council, which promoted heart health and the NYS Clean Indoor Air Act. Julie enjoyed a full life, loved her family whole-heartedly, was a great cook and talented artist, and enjoyed throwing family parties and tending to her gardens: her property was featured on the Grand Island Garden Tour twice. The family requests flowers be sent to KAISER FUNERAL HOME, Grand Island on Monday. Private services will beheld due to COVID concerns. Share condelences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Patricia A. (nee Hessler) Bennett - April 3, 2021, of Grand Island. Wife of the late William R. Bennett; mother of Sandy (John) Wright, Bill (Julie), Scott (Dorothy) and Ron (Becky) Bennett and the late Patricia E. (survived by husband William) Wilson; grandmother of Danielle, Natalie, Will, Brandie, Amy, Kris, Keli, Korey, Kassie, Nikole, Kaylee, Ben and LeeAnn; loving grandmother "GG" to many; sister of Mary Smith and the late George "Art" (survived by wife Donna) and Willie Hessler. Friends may call Tuesday, 3-7 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral services private. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.
Olive Oresta (nee Lightfoot) Burch - Died on February 17, 2021 at Elderwood Lancaster Skilled Nursing Facility. After testing positive for Covid-19 in early January she had been in recovery. But the Covid-19 induced fatigued was too much for her body.
Born on May 8, 1921, at the tail end of the 1918-1920 Influenza Pandemic, Olive was 99 years old. Born in a farmhouse in Caton, New York, Olive grew up with two brothers, Whiting and Richard, and her sister Elizabeth. Her father, James Tindell Lightfoot, supported his family as a workman on the New York Central Railroad and as a subsistence farmer, providing all the food for the family. Her mother Mary Eliza Lightfoot's career as a schoolteacher provided the cash income that carried the family through the Great Depression. The farm that was home to Olive was rustic even by pre-World War II standards; no electricity, phone or radio, light was by kerosene lantern, and cooking was done on a cast iron woodstove. Despite tough living conditions, Olive remembered her childhood as a very happy time, working with her father in the barn or driving a horse drawn hay wagon in the fields. Olive thrived on the outdoor life and the joy of working with animals, especially horses.
Olive attended a one-room rural schoolhouse, where for several years the teacher was her own mother. The Lightfoot home was full of learning; Olive and her brothers and sister were all encouraged to educate themselves through books, newspapers, and talk of current events. Olive achieved a Regents Scholarship at Painted Post High School, making it possible for her to enroll at the Buffalo State Teachers College, Class of 1944. At the time education options for women were limited. Olive enrolled to become a Home Economics Teacher because in her words, "It was the closest degree to Science a woman could receive at the time". As a woman she could not sign up for science classes directly; she had to interview with each professor to gain their permission. Persisting by this process Olive took every math and science course that she could. Very often she was the only woman in a classroom full of men. Olive supported herself during college working the second shift at the Tonawanda Chevrolet Engine Plant. At the time the Engine Plant was building aircraft engines for the war effort. Olive's job was to conduct horsepower performance tests on the completed engines. She was a true "Rosie the Riveter"! Olive loved her time at Buffalo State Teachers College, gaining three life-long friends that she corresponded with until Olive was the last survivor. In 2016 at the age of 96 Olive attended her 72nd alumni reunion!
Upon graduation from college, Olive worked as a chemistry laboratory technician at the Linde Corporation in Tonawanda, NY from 1944 to 1951. Her work included creating synthetic ruby glass used in early laser light experiments. While at Linde Olive met her future husband, William Burch, a metallurgical engineer. Olive and William were married on September 3, 1948; the beginning of a joyful 72-year marriage. Olive and William became members of Central Park Methodist Church in Buffalo and later joined Trinity United Methodist Church on Grand Island in the early 1960s. Olive was active in the Trinity Women's Circle for many years, often as the group's president. Olive represented Trinity Church at many Methodist conferences.
A long-time member of the Niagara Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution Olive enjoyed many friendships and supporting the mission work of the DAR. Olive shared her keen interest in current events with her many nieces, her daughters-law, and her two granddaughters by mailing them letters with newspaper articles that showed examples of women contributing to the world. Olive and William enjoyed many travel adventures, visiting cherished family in Colorado or Corning, NY, the many birdwatching trips, and in later years Elder Hostel trips to the islands of Maine. Olive expressed her love by her constant warm smile and by patiently listening before offering words of comfort.
In December 2020, after the loss of her husband in May 2020 and after months of Covid-19 induced isolation at an assisted living facility, she was asked how she felt. Olive answered, "Joyful!". On February 17, 2021, unable to have visitors due to Covid-19 restrictions, at the moment Olive passed away she was holding photos of her cherished great-granddaughter, Oresta Burch-Septer. Olive was pre-deceased by her husband, William, who died of Covid-19 on May 11, 2020. Olive is survived by her three sons Charles, Lawrence (Joan) and Roger (Deborah); two granddaughters Kelsey (Ronald) Reynolds and Colleen (Jonathan) Septer and one great granddaughter, Oresta Burch-Septer; her sisters-in-law Ernestine (Frank) Burch and Mary (Richard) Lightfoot and many cherished nieces and nephews. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Donations in memory of Olive Burch may be made to the Western New York Land Conservancy, P.O. Box 471, East Aurora, N.Y., 14952 or https://www.wnylc.org/planned-giving.
Kathleen "Kathy" (nee Krafft) Lanthier - March 30, 2021 of Grand Island, NY. Beloved wife of Kerry Lanthier. Dear mother of Kristy (Thaddeus) Stevens and Kerry (Nicole) Lanthier. Loving grandmother of Keagan, Averee, Lincoln, Liam, Samara and Lucia. Sister of Joseph (Penny) Darragh, Marianne Krafft and the late Delores (Lenny) Greco. Aunt of Kerian, Toni, Ryan, Megan, Dominic, and Emma. Friends may call Saturday, April 3, 12-4PM at the Lester H. Wedekindt, Inc., Funeral Home, 3290 Delaware Ave., where a funeral service will follow at 4PM. Face coverings and social distancing required. Please share condolences at www.lesterwedekindtfuneralhome.com.
Timothy Rodger Dzierba, - Sept. 5, 1946 – March 9, 2021, a professor at Medaille College for more than 30 years, died March 9 in Albuquerque, N.M., where he had lived since 2015. His family said the cause was heart complications. He was 74.
Born in Buffalo, the second of three children, he attended St. John Gualbert Elementary School and graduated in 1964 from Diocesan Preparatory Seminary in Buffalo, where the yearbook noted that he was the best orator in the class. Deciding not to become a priest, he enrolled at Canisius College, where he received a bachelor’s degree in history in 1968, then served in the Army in the Vietnam War with the 82nd Airborne Division.
Returning from service, he taught at Maryvale High School in Cheektowaga for a year, then was a lecturer for a year at Villa Maria College while earning a master’s degree in history from Buffalo State College. He joined the Medaille faculty in 1972 and went on to complete a doctorate in history from the University at Buffalo. He became a tenured professor at Medaille in 1979 and retired in 2014. He was academic chairman in social sciences from 1976 to 1994, and concurrently served shorter terms as chairman of liberal studies, government services, human services, child youth services and mathematics and sciences. In class, Mr. Dzierba enlivened his lectures in history with his personal experiences during the ’60s and in Vietnam, as well as his extensive knowledge of Buffalo’s past. He was an adjunct professor at Niagara County Community College, the School of Industrial Labor Relations at Cornell University and Daemen College. At Daemen, he twice was a faculty sponsor for programs in the college's annual Academic Festival. He also was invited to make presentations at scholarly seminars in Germany, England and Jordan.
A former Grand Island resident, he was a Sunday school teacher at Trinity United Methodist Church on Grand Island and was chairman of the church’s administrative board. He also served on the boards of directors of the Buffalo Area Council of Churches and Buffalo Area Municipal Ministries.
A music lover, he performed with the Trinity English Handbell Ringers and played glockenspiel in parades with Teddy’s Islettes of Grand Island. He also volunteered for the Asbury Soup Kitchen. Survivors include his wife, the former Rosemary Tweedy; a daughter, Amy Lynn Dzierba; a brother, Alexander; and a sister, Sharon. Services will be private. Written by Dale Anderson (Buffalo News).
Patrick J. Devlin - Age 78, of Grand Island, NY died March 27th, 2021. He was born in Waltham, MA. Patrick served his country honorably as a LT in the United States Air Force and then married the late Andrea (Gann) Devlin, in 1973. They lived together in Hollywood, CA before relocating to Nanuet, NY in 1987. Patrick was a longtime member of the Actors Equity Union as he spent many years working as the stage performer in California. He loved the performing arts and the producing original music. Patrick held multiple senior level management positions at the Mercedes Benz Corporation, until he retired in 2000. He was so passionate about the automobile industry, so he continued to work for Mercedez Benz of Greenwich until 2006 after retirement. Patrick is survived by his beloved son, Albert Jessica) Devlin; three grandchildren: as well as nephew, David Mancusi (Debbie) of Winchester, MA. For family and friends. A Memorial Service will be held at 5 PM on Thursday, April 1st, at SABER FUNERAL HOME, 549 Oliver Street, North Tonawanda, NY (716) 692-0271, followed by visitation until 7pm. (face masks required and COVID restrictions followed) Flowers are welcomed or donations may be made in Patrick's name to the Buffalo City Mission. www.BuffaloCityMission.org.
Joanne Moscati - of Grand Island, a retired registered nurse, died March 26 in Gates Vascular Institute after a brief illness. She was 85. Born Joanne Machelor in Niagara Falls, the fourth of five children, she was a graduate of Niagara Falls High School and the Niagara University nursing program. Mrs. Moscati worked first as a school nurse at Hutchinson Central Technical High School in Buffalo and later in her career was a psychiatric nurse at Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center. She retired in 1995.
A Grand Island resident since 1972, she was a eucharistic minister at St. Stephen’s Catholic Church and served on the bereavement committee. With many of her family members serving in the armed forces, she was a dedicated supporter of Wounded Warriors and other organizations that benefit veterans. She was an avid fan of Niagara University basketball and other local sports teams. She also was active in the River Oaks Ladies Nine-Hole Golf Club. As the family matriarch, she hosted holiday gatherings for many years and was especially devoted to Bailey and Cody, her Golden Retrievers. Her husband of 65 years, Ronald Moscati, is a retired photographer for The Buffalo Courier-Express and The Buffalo News. Survivors also include two sons, Ronald Jr. and Robert; a daughter, Deborah McCoy; a brother, John Machelor; 11 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday in St. Stephen’s Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island.
Theron E. Bastian - March 23, 2021. Loving husband to Margaret Bastian (formerly Figler); predeceased by his first wife Nancy (nee Olson); father to Renee (Daniel) Gietz, Stacey (Terry) Pilinko and T. Scott (Debra) Bastian; step-father to Roman (Karen) Figler III, Bobbi (Mike) Hopkins and Jim (Sabrina) Figler; grandfather to 17, great-grandfather to six and great-great-grandfather to three; brother of Cheryl Alden, Lynn Nalbone and the late Bryce (Sue) Bastian; also adored by many nieces, nephews and friends. Theron was a graduate of St. Lawrence University and M.I.T. He worked in many capacities at Carborundum Co. then started IVAL, helping clients find undervalued stocks. Interests included the outdoors, being "punny" and sailing on his beloved Niagara River. A private family service will be held Saturday, March 27 at 11 AM. Virtual attendance is welcomed via live stream. Link will be available at sttimothygrandisland.com. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Timothy Lutheran Church, 1453 Staley Rd., Grand Island, 14072. A Celebration of Life will be held this summer. Please share condolences at Kaiserfuneral.com.
Michael C. Wall - Of Grand Island, March 20. 2021. Beloved Husband of 40 years to Jeanette Wall; loving step father to Michelle McGraw, James (Mindy) McGraw, Karen (Patrick) Gendrue and Ted McGraw; grandfather to seven and great-grandfather to five; son of Margie Clark Bray and the late Fred J. Wall; also survived by siblings, Freddie (Chris) Wall, Elysha Hill and Sandra Samples. Michael was a veteran of the Army. He'll one day be united with his Bugger Bear.
Mark G. Wiesmore - Of Grand Island, entered into rest on March 20, 2021. Beloved longtime companion of Julie A. Naimi; devoted father of Dustin Woodall (Katelyn) and Taya Wiesmore (Randy); adored grandfather of Arabella Woodall; loving son of Gregory and the late Bonnie Wiesmore; dear brother of Mike, Kenny and Brett; dear nephew of Neet and Gerri (Joe); also survived by nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Relatives and friends may visit the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northtowns Chapel), 885 Niagara Falls Blvd. near Eggert/Sheridan Dr., on Saturday from 2-6 PM for a gathering in Mark's memory. Online condolences may be offered at www.lombardofuneralhome.com.
Thomas K. Hayes - March 18, 2021, of Grand Island. Predeceased by wife Lucy Hayes; father of Lauren (Chris) Baron and Shannon Hayes; loving partner to Sue Kowalski. Brother to Dan (Valerie) and Jim (Terry) Hayes; also survived by nieces and nephews. Friends may call Sunday, March 21, 2021, from 3-7 PM at KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Memorial Mass will be held Monday, March 22, at St. Stephen's Church at 11 AM, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice Buffalo. Please share condolences at Kaiserfuneral.com.
Jean M. Crowell - March 18, 2021, beloved wife of the late Donald R. Crowell; loving mother of Donald R. (Carol) Crowell II, Kathleen (Daniel Hodiak) Doldan, Judith (John, DDS) Herman, Margaret (Donald) Bray; predeceased by son, Thomas M. Crowell and daughter, Barbara (Jay, DDS) Clark; cherished grandmother of 16; great-grandmother of 17; sister of the late Robert F. (Late Patricia) Kenific; also survived by dear nieces and nephews. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, March 23, at 11 AM, at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. To ensure safety and health for all, please wear a face mask and maintain social distancing.
Julia M. Alcorn Ballester - Peacefully passed at home on November 11, 2020 following a brief illness. Predeceased by Jose M. Ballester; loving mom to Kathleen (Paul), Patrick, Barry, Kim (Tim), Maria (Dan) and Virginia (Scott); proud Abuela to 14 grandkids and adoring GG to 13 ½ great grandkids; mom at heart to Kathy Wilson and Hardy Brown.
Born outside Belfast, NI on March 21, 1933 as the seventh of 11 children, Julia came to the US in 1965, where she soon met Jose. While growing their family, she worked as a bookkeeper and bank teller on Grand Island until her retirement. Older in years, but young in spirit, Mom was always up for any type of adventure, no matter how big or small, which she approached with child-like innocence and awe, and a little mischievous air.
She was never without her knitting, making blankets and sweaters for every baby of family and friends and numerous items for charity. She loved games of all sorts and enjoyed nothing more than an evening playing cards or dominoes (just watch out, she cheats!). Mom also loved to read and write poetry, sing (a little off key and making up her own words) and discovered a wonderful talent for drawing and watercolors in her 60s. Any place we went, not a single dog could go by without her stopping to pet it and no baby could pass without an adoring comment. Mom welcomed everyone she met like they were family and was loved back that same way - how could you not love that brilliant smile and Irish lilt? Her love for us was evident by her enthusiastic support of anything we did, no matter how crazy. Absolutely nothing made her happier than spending time with family and friends, and she was cherished by each and every one. Happy birthday, Mom - we'll be raising a wee brown one for you! We miss you every day. Online condolences may be offered at www.denglerrobertspernafuneral.com.
Jack Krajewski - May 8, 1946 – Feb. 9, 2021, a geologist and one of the founding fathers of rugby in Western New York, died Feb. 9 in Golden, Colo., after a period of declining health. He was 74.
Born in Buffalo, the third of six children, he attended St. Joachim’s School, then went to St. Leo the Great School after his family moved to Amherst when he was 11. He was a 1964 graduate of St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute, where he played on the tennis and football teams.
In 1966, he and three University at Buffalo classmates, looking for an alternative sport to play, adopted rugby and convinced the UB administration to provide funds for it. They competed at the club level against out-of-town teams. Mr. Krajewski served as the Buffalo Rugby Club’s first president and remained involved after his playing days were over. He was inducted onto its Wall of Fame in 2008. A posting on the club’s Facebook page notes: “Along with coordinating the Summer BRC Devo’s program along with Ron Astridge, being a member of the Board of Directors and being on the Wall of Fame, Jack can be seen on the sideline at every Buffalo Rugby home game, brandishing a beer in hand and a smile on face.”
After he earned a bachelor’s degree in geology from UB in January 1969, he worked as a curator at the Schoellkopf Museum in Niagara Falls, then had a long career with for the State Department of Environmental Conservation, where he was an engineering geologist. “He was a good rock hound,” his sister Barbara Lipome said. She noted that when the American Falls was dewatered in 1969, “he hung over the Falls in a basket to see how much erosion was taking place.” Mr. Krajewski was a founding member of the Buffalo Association of Professional Geologists and served as its president.
He moved from Niagara Falls to Grand Island in the 1970s. He was a member of the vestry of St. Martin-in-the-Fields Church on Grand Island and sang in its choir. When his children were involved with swimming, he was a board member of the Grand Island Swim Club. A lover of the outdoors, he and his family made annual stays in Allegany State Park for camping, hiking and campfires, where he entertained with his scary “Wambeezil” stories. He moved to Colorado in 2010 to be closer to his grandchildren. Surviving are his wife of 51 years, the former Susan Wilson, a registered nurse; two sons, Todd and Dr. Kevin; a daughter, Lisa Hardison; two sisters, Barbara Lipome and Patricia Klingenmaier; three brothers, Terrence, Michael and Mark; and two grandsons. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.
John "Jack" Thompson - March 16, 2021. Devoted husband and best friend of 51 years to Jo-Ann Thompson nee Repeta; father of Marc (fiance Paulette), Tom (Cindi), Jackie (John) DeLuso and Joe (Tiffany). Grandfather to Marc, Drew, Madison, Emily, Libby, Grace and his precious Ella Rose (Boo); son of the late Walter and Jane Thompson; brother-in-law of Mary (Jerry) Cichy, Helen (late Leon) Repeta, Helene (John) Smiegel and Suzie (Kevin) Osterstrom; also survived by many nieces and nephews and his fur buddies Jasper and Oscar.
John was a Vietnam Veteran and a life member of VFW 9429 where he held several offices. A life member of DAV. John was was a 34 year member of Erie County Sheriff's Office and part time Grand Island Police. A member of Erie County Badge and Shield and a life member of Whitehaven Rod and Gun Club. John enjoyed traveling with a group of fantastic friends. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Charles DeGlopper Memorial, 2121 Grand Island Blvd., Grand Island, NY 14072. A celebration with family and friends will be determined at a later date. And in Jack's final words "I'm 10-4". Please share condolences at Kaiserfuneral.com.
William M. Popowich - March 8, 2021. Loving husband of 41 years to Antoinette Popowich. Grandfather to Dominique (Brian) Brennan. Father to Donna DeGregorio. Great-grandfather to Lettianna Brennan. He loved spending time with his granddaughter and family and enjoyed going for walks at the local park. Friends may call Saturday, March 13th, 1-3 P.M. at Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined. Share condolences at Kaiserfuneral.com.
A memorial service will take place on Sunday, June 20th at 11:15 a.m. at Trinity UMC, 2100 Whitehaven Road.
Live Stream HERE.
Nancy Lee Carlson “Momo” Hayes - age 86, entered into heaven peacefully on March 11, 2021. She leaves behind her beloved children, Peter C (Karie) Hayes II, Jodi (Bradley) Robinson, Karen (Barry) Smith, and Dana (Ross) Erickson; devoted grandmother of Bryan (Chrissy) Smith, Lindsey (Timothy) Lucinski, David John “DJ” (fiancé Tamara) Foote, Ryan Foote, Alison (fiancé Andy) Hayes, Liam Dodd, Annie Hayes, Zoe (fiancé Chris) Dodd; proud great-grandmother of Kennedy Lee, Jack, Aria, Vera, Koda, Kaylee. Daughter of the late, first generation Swedish-Americans Oscar and Koren Carlson.
Nancy was born in Mount Kisco, NY, raised in Pleasantville, NY. Graduate of SUNY Cortland ‘56. After graduation, Nancy raised her family in Tonawanda and then on Grand Island, where she proudly resided for the remainder of her life. Nancy’s children fondly remember her as a remarkable mother. Nancy, a well known substitute and special education teacher in the Grand Island School District for 44 years, was a true Viking even after her retirement in 2001.
Throughout her life, Nancy enjoyed traveling to Wales and other European countries, as well as New England; she enjoyed no place more than being on Grand Island surrounded by her family and friends. Better known as “Momo” to her grandchildren, and eventually the community, Momo supportively spent her free time enjoying her grandchildren’s football, lacrosse, hockey, basketball, softball games and swim meets; choral, band and orchestra concerts. Momo also dedicated special time to each grandchild focusing on proper dining etiquette that became known as “John’s Flaming Hearth Prep School.”
Every Friday, for the last 40 years, Nancy got together with her “Domino Group” to play various games and enjoy each other’s company. She would even teach her grandchildren and great granddaughter, Kennedy Lee, her domino “secrets” to make sure the game continues to pass on through generations.
Nancy was a well known patron of The Village Inn, The Beach House, and Adrian’s for many years. Nancy dedicated her time over the years to Young Life, YWCA, The Neighbors Foundation, and Trinity United Methodist Church. Nancy was a faithful and committed member of the congregation for over fifty years. During her time spent at Trinity she was the UMW president, head of the “Pink Bags” committee that donated toiletries to women veterans, volunteered her time at any function benefiting the church and in the office supporting in any way she could. Nancy considered many members of Trinity as family. She lived a life devoted to her faith, her family, and her favorite stores Target, The Christmas Tree Shoppe, and Tj Maxx. Since her passing, we believe their stock value has plummeted. Nancy will truly be missed within the Grand Island community, as a mentor to many, and as the rock and pillar of her family. Her legacy will continue on with her words that she left behind, “Be good and do good. Take care of each other, keep in touch as long as possible. Serve God the best way you know how.”
A memorial service is being planned for June. Memorials may be made to Neighbors Foundation or Trinity UMC, (Pink Bag Project in memo area), 2100 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island, NY 14072.
Michael Andrew Cap - Age 66, of Grand Island, NY, passed suddenly on February 16, 2021. Survived by loving wife Bobbie; father of Bethany (Paul) Hannan and Ian (Lorena) Cap; grandfather of Kathryn and Alex Hannan and Aiden Cap. Brother of Victor (Gloria) Cap, Daniel Cap and Catherine (James) Mulhern. He was a member of Trinity UMC Grand Island, West Seneca Lodge No. 1111 F.&A.M., Ismailia Shriners, Pond Chapter No. 853 OES and the Siberian Husky Club of the Niagara Frontier. He was a 1972 graduate of GIHS and 1976 Buffalo State College. Donations may be made to West Seneca Lodge, 647 Main St., W. Seneca NY 14224 or Ismailia Shriner Transportation Fund, 1600 Southwestern Blvd., Buffalo NY 14224. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Please share condolences at Kaiserfuneral.com.
Faye E. Popiel - March 4, 2021 of Grand Island. Predeceased by her husband, Alvin Popiel; mother of Deborah (the late Richard) Stack, Rebecca Popiel and Judith Seihnel; grandmother of Marisa (Ricky) Lucas, Sarah Wasson, Allison (Macy) Seihnel-Todd, Jeremy (Emily) Siehnel and Anthony Stack; also survived by three great-grandchildren. Please share your condolences online at Kaiserfuneral.com.
Georgette Combes - Age 90, of Grand Island, NY, passed away peacefully on March 1, 2021. In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to Hospice Buffalo. For full obituary and online condolences, visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com.
Joseph A. Pullano - Pullano, Joseph A.- March 1, 2021-After a five-year battle against leukemia. Predeceased by his loving parents, John and Patricia (Heavey) Pullano. He will be missed by his surviving siblings; Jody (William) Malesky, John (Joanne), Peggy (Robert) Carroll, James (Kelly), Jeremy (Jennifer) Pullano, his aunt, Sr. Mary Judith Heavey, SSMN, and an uncle, Martin Heavey. Proud uncle to nine nieces and nephews, one great-niece, and many more cousins and friends. Best friend and “brother” to John Szabo. Also survived by his Smokey Joe’s and Thomas Street family in Charlotte, NC. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. Our family would like to thank the nurses and staff of the BMT clinic, transplant wing and Drs. Balderman and Ross at Roswell for their care and patience with Joe over the last five years. If desired, memorials may made to the Sisters of St. Mary of Namur Memorial Fund, 241 Lafayette Ave, Buffalo, 14213. As Joe would say, “Rock On, Hunny Bunny!”
Jacqueline Alane "Jackie" Gregorski - 55, of Newark, Delaware, formerly of Grand Island, New York, went to be with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Tuesday, February 16, 2021 after succumbing to injuries sustained in an automobile accident. Jackie is survived by her parents Richard J. and Patricia L. (Wade) Gregorski; her sisters, Pamela A. (Gregorski) Jasinski and Deborah D. Gregorski; nephew, Zachery M. Jasinski; and nieces, Emilee M. Setting and Julianna A. Jasinski; she is also survived by her aunt, Sandra (Wade) and uncle, Bruce Coutts, uncle, Frank and aunt, Kay Gregorski, aunt, Florence Gregorski; godparents, Joseph and Elaine Kurek; and several cousins. Jackie was a graduate of the University of Delaware and had a successful career as a paralegal specializing in patents and trademarks, working for Bell South, Reed Elsevier, and most recently Corporation Service Company.
Jackie was a kind and loving soul, with a wonderful warm smile and heart of gold. Jackie was a true believer in our Lord Jesus Christ and took every opportunity to evangelize to bring people closer to our Lord. Jackie has a special love for animals, especially yellow labs and her parents' chihuahua Holly. Jackie is going to be sorely missed by everyone that knew her. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM, on Monday, March 1st, 2021 at St. Mary's of the Assumption Church, 7200 Lancaster Pike, Hockessin, Delaware 19707. A private interment will take place at a later date at the Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Lewiston, New York at a time convenient for the family. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Faithful Friends Animal Shelter at www.faithfulfriends.us. For condolences, please visit online at www.chandlerfuneralhome.com.
Irmgard T. Hohbach - Of Grand Island, age 97, passed away peacefully on February 22, 2021. She was the beloved wife of the late Hans Blazy, and the late Alfred Hohbach Sr; a devoted mother of Karin (Robert) Meisner, Charlotte (Russell) Burr, and stepson Alfred (Ruth) Hohbach Jr.; a loving grandmother of Robert C. Meisner, Russell D. Burr, Kimberly (Miguel) Diaz, Amy (Dean) Kinkoph, Karen (Kenneth) Comfort, and Jennifer (Randy) Bauer; and a great-grandmother of Michael Kinkoph, Alyse Burr, Ethan Kinkoph, Sadie Burr, Dominic Burr, Roman Diaz, Isabella Diaz, Cody Comfort, Christopher Comfort, Victoria Bauer, and Jonathan Bauer. Born in Breslau, Germany to Ludwig and Johanna Nebes, Irmgard attended an Academic High School and a Trade School. During World War II at the age of 19, she became an accomplished Morse Code Operator, and after served as a Nurse's Aide who cared for many wounded soldiers including one named Hans Blazy, who later became her husband. She also worked as a Lab Technician at the University of Buffalo. She was a faithful and a devout member of the New Apostolic Church for over sixty years. Due to the current Covid and social distancing requirements, a private Church Service will be conducted for the immediate family only. Messages of condolences can be sent via the website of the KAISER FUNERAL HOME at kaiserfuneral.com (click onto 'Home', 'Obituaries', 'Irmgard T. Hohbach', 'Continue Reading', and 'Send Condolence' is at the bottom).
George P. Ihle, Jr. - Age 87, of Lakeland, FL, formerly of Grand Island, NY passed away peacefully after a brief illness on February 15, 2021. George was born in Buffalo, NY on August 15, 1933, the son of the late George P. Sr. and Louise Ihle. He graduated from Riverside High School before serving in the Marines for four years. After returning from the service he married Patricia Robinson and they celebrated their 65th anniversary this past October. In addition to his wife he is survived by two sons, George P. Ihle III (Lisa) and Robert J. Ihle (Andrew Kiener), his brother Philip Ihle, his grandchildren Jennifer (Dominic) Florio, George P. Ihle IV (Anna) and Jason Ihle (Brittani) and his great-grandchildren Brayden, Noah, Benjamin, Madison, Kendall and Lincoln. He was predeceased by his brothers Harvey Ihle Sr. and Richard Ihle. Private services will be held at a future date.
Dr. Emil Geering - Formerly of Grand Island, died February 20, 2021 at age 97 in Meadowbrook Care Center, Cincinnati. His strong will to live was inspiring, and he is sadly missed by his family. Emil was born in Yonkers, N.Y. on February 8, 1924, to Emil and Anna (Weiser) Geering. He was raised in Dobbs Ferry, N.Y., and spent much time in his parents' bakery. Many tales are told of his boyhood mischievousness there!
He received his B. S. From Hobart College while in the U. S. Navy V-12 program. He served in the Navy in WWII for three years, mostly on the USS Gazelle, a tanker in the Pacific theater. In 1945 he was honorably discharged as a lieutenant (j.g.) He worked for several years at Best Foods Company in New Jersey, then went on to get an M.S., and in 1950 a PhD in organic chemistry (both at Polytechnic Institute of Brooklyn.)
He was married to Marion Petchel in the Lady Chapel of Saint Patrick's Cathedral in New York City on July 25, 1953, and he and his wife moved to Western NY in 1954. He was employed at Hooker/Occidental for 37 years, during which time he earned 49 patents. He was a manager in Research and Development, and later in Technical Services. During this period he also earned an MBA from the State University of NY at Buffalo. He was a member of the American Chemical Society and the Royal Society of Chemists.
Emil was a man of many talents: woodworking, including furniture and sculpture; piano playing on his beloved Steinway; gardening; bookbinding; cooking and baking artisanal breads; and abstract painting (for which he was honored with an exhibit at Manhattan College in NYC.) He coordinated many blood drives on Grand Island for the American Red Cross, and served on the Grand Island Memorial Library board for nine years, five as president.
A frequently used expression of his was, "Everything is relative," which his wife joked would be on his tombstone someday as it so aptly depicted his outlook on life and being. He lovingly cared for his dear wife through her long illness and death in 2009. Failing health eventually dictated that he move to Crescent Springs, Kentucky to live with his oldest daughter, Anne (Rick) Gaunder, and then to a nursing home. His other beloved children are Timothy (Linda) Geering, Mason, OH; Mary Louise Geering, Brooklyn, NY; and John (Kris) Geering, Mountain View, CA. He is survived by nine grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and his older sister, Anna Cross of Pittsfield, MA. Funeral arrangements will be private due to COVID concerns. Burial will be in St. Stephen's Cemetery, Grand Island, New York. Condolences may be offered at kaiserfuneral.com. Memorial contributions may be sent to Grand Island Memorial Library, 1715 Bedell Rd., Grand Island, NY 14072. A video memorial celebration of Emil's life will be held at a later date. Please contact John Geering at jegeering@yahoo.com for information.
Mary A. (nee McNulty) Loder - February 7, 2021 in Bradenton FL. Mother of Audrey (Ryan) Shaw, grandmother of Caitlin Shaw, sister of Patricia (Bud) Yensan, the late Margaret “Peggy” (Bob) Hooper, Shirley (Jim Brice) McNulty, Michael (Kathy) McNulty and Roberta “Bobbi” (Ken) Champagne; daughter of the late Michael and Patricia McNulty; Also survived by many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and lots of friends. No services are planned at this time. Memorials can be made to Hospice.
Terrence E. Hall - February 8, 2021. Formerly of Grand Island and Kenmore, NY. Beloved son of Gladys (nee Wilsman) and the late Lester B. Hall; dear brother of Timothy (Sue), Gary (Cynthia) Hall and Pamela Klein; survived by nieces and nephews. A private memorial will be held at a later date. Terry served in the US Marine Corp. and was a counselor with the Erie County Mental Health Group; he also enjoyed boating, fishing and riding his Harley. Arrangements by JAMES E. GRACE FUNERAL HOME, INC.
Jane E. Chervinsky - February 13, 2021, age 74, after a short illness of Grand Island. Loving wife of 51 years of David Chervinsky. Also survived by three children, Robert (Heidi Plowy), Richard, James; one grandchild, Riley Chervinsky of Lawtons, NY; one sister-in-law, Alice (Joseph) Murray of Silver Spring, MD; one brother-in-law Nicholas (Nancy) Chervinsky of Brewerton, NY, and numerous nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her parents Timothy and Marion O'Brien of Niagara Falls, two brothers, Charles (Beth) O'Brien of Columbus, OH, John (Donna) O'Brien of The Villages, FL, and one brother-in-law John (Kirsten) Chervinsky of Somerville, MA. A funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, February 27th at 11AM at St. Stevens Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. Flowers declined. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association or the charity of your choice. Please share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Barbara Ann (nee Llaveria) Morabito - February 18, 2021, of Grand Island. Wife of 70 years of the late Daniel F. Morabito, Sr.; mother of Mark (Debbie) Morabito, Rosenna (late Ron) Federice, Daniel F. Jr., Kathleen and Joseph P. (Susann) Morabito; also survived by eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; sister of Dolores Holtzworth, Peggy Jo (Michael) Platt and Mary Lu Llaveria. Our hearts are broken. Mom, you have left a huge hole in our chest. We wish we had more warm hugs, more long talks, more sweet words of encouragement, more loving looks. Gone is that beautiful twinkle in your eyes when Dad walked in. You are now free and reunited with your sweetheart of 70 years. So perhaps they are not stars in the sky, but rather openings where our loved ones shine down to let us know they are happy. So with one more kiss, Mom, you're on your way. Fly on Eagle's wings... A Memorial Service for Barbara and Daniel will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo. Please share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Valerie Lynn (nee Glosser) Fraser - February 18, 2021 of Grand Island. Life partner and best friend of Bobby Fraser. Proud mother of Jeremy (Nadine) Fraser and Rachel (Fred) Hahn. Proudest nana of Chloe and Pyper Fraser, Jacoby and Gavin Hahn. Big sister of Tammy Neumann and Jamie Seyler. Best friend of Sandy Edwards. Services private at a later date and held at the convenience of the family. Please share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
David A. Waite - 84, passed peacefully from this earth, into the arms of his Heavenly Father, on Monday, February 8, 2021, at his Grand Island home, surrounded by his loving family. David was born July 13, 1936, in Niagara Falls, to Clarence and Catherine Waite. He was the older brother to two siblings, Richard and Elizabeth, who preceded him in death. He was a 1962 graduate of Buffalo State College, and taught for many years in the Williamsville Central School system. He retired in 1993. David enjoyed working for many years with the Christian Service Brigade, and also singing in various choirs. David was married for 59 years to his dear wife, Anne, who passed in 2019. He is survived by his daughters, Susan (Jeffrey) Rutledge, Rebecca Waite, and Catherine (Brian) Prell, four grandchildren, Elizabeth (Kurt) Rutledge-Aikens, John (Brittany) Rutledge, Jonathan (Megan Wessner) Prell, Katelyn Prell, one great-granddaughter, Rosemary Anne Prell, several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. A private memorial service will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo. Share condolences at Kaiserfuneral.com.
June 14, 1929 – Feb. 11, 2021
Dorothy Holloway Westhafer - 91, a co-founder of the Kenan Center Arts Council who was an enthusiastic supporter of the arts and advocate for the preservation of green space, died Thursday in Niagara Hospice in Lockport after a brief illness. A resident of Grand Island for more than 30 years, she had lived at Brookdale Memory Care Center in North Tonawanda for the past year.
Born in Akron, Ohio, she graduated from Buchtel High School in Akron and then from Miami University of Ohio with a bachelor's degree in art education. She married the Rev. James Westhafer, a widower with a young daughter, in 1951 and moved to Dayton, Ohio, where he served as co-pastor at Westminster Presbyterian Church.
The Westhafers moved to Lockport in 1962, when Rev. Westhafer became pastor of Lockport First Presbyterian Church. Both were instrumental in the founding of the Kenan Center when William Rand Kenan died and left his Locust Street home and property to the church. It was Mrs. Westhafer's Christmas gift of homemade peanut brittle to assistant pastor Ivan Orloff that inspired the assembly line peanut brittle production that financed the Lockport Interfaith Group.
Mrs. Westhafer was elected to the Lockport Board of Education in 1967, serving eight years. She was chairman of the Citizens Advisory Committee that worked to create the Gulf Wilderness Park in Lockport and was active in the Lockport YWCA. She was a member of the New Century Club in Lockport and a member of the League of Women Voters for more than 60 years.
She went back to college at the age of 43, earned a master of fine arts degree from the University at Buffalo and served as the first director of the art gallery at Niagara County Community College campus in Sanborn. She taught art history at SUNY Buffalo State and Niagara University and later became a docent at the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, often guiding tours for classroom groups.
After Rev. Westhafer's retirement in 1984, the couple traveled to Turkey, Greece, Thailand, Nepal and India. The couple moved to a home on Lake Ontario in Burt in 1975 and to Grand Island in 1988. Rev. Westhafer died in 1992.
Mrs. Westhafer was a charter member and served on the board of directors of the Western New York Land Conservancy, supporting such projects as the Niagara Escarpment Preserve and the Stella Niagara Preserve. She served on the Grand Island conservation commission from 1993 to 2016, the last 10 years as chairman, working to identify and preserve valuable green space and forest as home-building accelerated on the island.
Mary Cooke, who served as Grand Island supervisor during Mrs. Westhafer's tenure on the commission, said: "Dorothy Westhafer was tireless in her efforts to preserve green space on Grand Island and to educate others about the benefits of environmental conservation. From writing articles on various topics to being out in the field, Dorothy was always there leading others. We hiked many areas, planted trees, worked on annual beach sweeps and street cleanups and cleaned out invasive plant species on town properties. Her hard work and positive attitude set a fine example for others. Anyone enjoying the outdoors on Grand Island can thank Dorothy Westhafer for helping to preserve it."
Mrs. Westhafer was an avid supporter of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra and in her later years particularly enjoyed the Friday morning coffee concerts. She was a member of Riverside Presbyterian Church in Niagara Falls, serving as an elder, lay reader and representative to Presbytery. She was a longtime member of a Grand Island book group and a member of the Grand Island Friends of the Library.
She enjoyed tennis, ice skating, swimming, Scrabble, baking, bird watching, stargazing, watercolor painting and duplicate bridge and had a lifelong passion for gardening. She was a talented seamstress and eagerly tackled projects around the house, whether it was refinishing furniture, caning chairs or dismantling her garden shed.
She is survived by a son, William; three daughters, Elizabeth O'Brien, Jean Westmoore and Gail Webb; nine grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. Due to the pandemic, funeral services will be private with a memorial remembrance planned at the Kenan Center in late summer or fall. Burial will be in Wooster Cemetery in Wooster, Ohio.
Melinda “Mindi” Marie (Davis) Schwarz - was born to Ron and Patricia Davis (Vincent) on April 1, 1966 in Grand Island, New York. She departed on February 10, 2021 from the comfort of her home in New Braunfels, Texas at the age of 54. She was the faithful wife of Stephen Schwarz and loving mother to Matthew Schwarz. Mindi is survived by her mother, Patricia Davis and her step-father, Roland Payer, brothers Scot and Todd Davis, her husband and son, and many more adoring relatives.
Mindi had the privilege of blessing many hearts of those with whom she came in contact. She was a devoted mother, raising her son all the way until college, never missing a beat when it came to his success. She was also a passionate and loving wife, standing by her husband through the worst of times and thriving during the best. Mindi often enjoyed cooking, shopping, perusing social media and loving every second with her two cats, Gracie and Fred. Melinda was a blessing to many and will be dearly missed.
Barbara M. (nee Massman) Becker - Of Grand Island, entered into rest February 2, 2021. Beloved wife of Thomas R. Becker; devoted mother of Laura D. Freeman; bonus daughter, Jessica Morgan; devoted grandmother of Victor Jr., Gianna D. and Vanessa D. Freeman; loving daughter of Dorothy and the late George Massman; dear sister of Mark (Melinda Wilson) Massman and Margaret Massman; loving friend of Irene Dunn Paligo. No prior visitation. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Thursday at 9:30 AM, at St. Stephens RC Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. Servies will be live streamed. A Celebration of Life will be celebrated at a later date. Arrangements by the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME. Condolences may be shared online at www.lombardofuneralhome.com.
Daniel F. Morabito, Sr. - February 1, 2021, of Grand Island. Husband of Barbara Ann Morabito (nee Llaveria); father of Mark (Debbie) Morabito, Rosenna (late Ron) Federice, Daniel F. Jr., Kathleen and Joseph P. (Susan) Morabito; grandfather of eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; brother of Peter (Anita) Morabito. How do you say goodbye? It is with a very heavy heart we are writing this. Dad, you lived an amazing 90 years. So many, many people are better because of you. We are going to miss your hugs, our talks, your infectious laughter, your smile, the twinkle in your eyes when you looked at Mom! Dad we miss you! So now no more pain and one more kiss, you're on your way ... fly on eagles wings. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Remembering Roslyn Gerard - Submitted by Alice Gerard
On Christmas Day, my mother, Roslyn Gerard, died after a long and passionate life at the age of 99.
Born Roslyn Faust, she lived history, experiencing the Great Depression as a child in Brooklyn, New York, and, during World War II, she worked as a Rosie the Riveter-type. She met my father, a young economist named Roy Gerard, on a blind date and, in June of 1951, the couple married. Their 61-year-long marriage featured Scrabble matches, milkshakes, and joint research projects. My mother found her life’s calling as an adult, as a nontraditional student at Syracuse University, where she earned a master’s degree in social work and a doctorate in sociology, while raising four daughters. She went on to have a career in the academic world, teaching both sociology and social work in various universities. She retired from Niagara University in 1985. At home, she loved to cook and to bake and to read. Favorite authors included Robin Cook, Jean Auel, J.K. Rowlings, Ken Follett, Ellis Peters, and Edward Rutherfurd. She also loved watching mysteries, such as “Murder She Wrote,” featuring Angela Lansbury as Jessica Fletcher.
In later years, she took great pleasure in watching old television westerns, especially “Have Gun, Will Travel.” She continued to enjoy cooking until her mid-90s. She had a wild sense of humor and, one day, after returning from a shopping trip, she let me know that she had a great surprise for me. She grinned gleefully as she presented the Limberger cheese, which had been the source of many smelly food jokes. Of course, I had to eat it. She laughed uproariously as I sampled the cheese, which tasted better than it smelled. Oddly enough, she never took a taste test. She also took delight in car rides. Vivian Gerard said, “My best memories of Mom were of our ice cream runs and long drives around the island, hunting down weeping willows. Second best was her utter enjoyment going through Delta Sonic and singing at the top of her lungs. I miss her smile and singing the most.”
My mother fought a valiant five-year battle against Alzheimer’s disease. Even after her diagnosis, she enjoyed taking car rides to look at houses and trees in Amherst or to look at the lake and the lighthouse in Hamburg. She took pleasure in the simple things: a muffin, some cheese, and a kiss on the cheek. The family is hoping to hold a memorial service sometime in the future for people who knew and loved Roslyn Gerard to share their memories of her. We also request that memorial donations in her name go to the Alzheimers Association, 6215 Sheridan Drive, Suite 100, Amherst, New York. Checks, with Roslyn Gerard’s name on the memo line, can be made to “Alzheimers Association WNY.” In addition to Vivian and me, Roslyn Gerard is survived by daughters Diane Gerard, Laura (Michael) Hassan, grandsons Devin (Chrisha) Dilley and James Thompson, and great grandchildren Claire, Adelise, and Elliott Dilley.
Norman C. Graesser - Of Tonawanda, NY, and formerly of Grand Island and Buffalo, went to be with our Lord on January 27, 2021. Born on December 6th 1929, he was 91 years of age. He was the loving and devoted brother to Ruth Graesser and Dan (Ruth) Graesser; the loving father of Edward (Cindy) Graesser, Daniel Graesser, Mary (Bryant) Pfalzer, John Graesser and the late Monica Graesser; and grandfather of James Bishop, Patrick Bishop, Justin Graesser, and Matthew Graesser. He was pre-deceased by his parents Harold and Monica (nee Neu) Graesser.
Viewing will be open at the Lombardo Funeral Home, 885 Niagara Falls Blvd, Amherst on Thursday, February 4th, from 4-8 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, February 5th, at 9 AM, at St. Amelia's R.C. Church, 2999 Eggert Road, Tonawanda. Family and friends are invited. Online guest book available at www.lombardofuneralhome.com. As you prepare to attend, please be mindful that face coverings and six foot separation are required. For webcast of the mass visit www.stamelia.com/watch-live/. Capacity restrictions may cause a brief delay to entry at the viewing. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Mental Health Advocates of Western New York (eriemha.org). Born in Buffalo NY,
Norm attended the St. James School and then went to the St. Joseph's Collegiate Institute. In September 1951 he was inducted into the US Army, and served in Korea in A Battery, 9th Field Artillery Battalion, 3rd Infantry Division. He was awarded the Korea Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars and the United Nations Service Medal. He carried out his service dutifully and held a deep love of God and country throughout his life. After his service he went to and graduated from Canisius College, and began his family. He became an Industrial Engineer at the Chevrolet Motor Division of GM in Tonawanda and had a long and successful career.
He had many interests and loved the outdoors and travel. The family is forever grateful for the loving home and upbringing he provided for them on Grand Island. He was a selfless man who frequently did things for other people and never wanted anything in return. He was greatly liked and enjoyed many friendships. Later as a resident of Tonawanda, he was a long time board member for the Dover Station townhouses. In his senior years he became an active member and participant of the Amherst Victorian Dance Society. He loved the friendships he made in the group, and ascribed his agility and overall good health to the benefits of dancing and social activity with them. He was a keen craftsman and expert at solving complex mechanical and electrical problems. More than anything else he was a wonderful father who loved and cared for his family above all other earthly things.
Dolores Norma Pastore - Age 90, of Grand Island, NY, passed away after a short illness on Wednesday, January 27, 2021. Born in Niagara Falls, NY, she was the daughter of Samuel Costanzo and Margaret (Graber) Costanzo; and predeceased by her loving husband Leroy; her daughter Donna Marie; her granddaughter Andrea Lynn Frisina; and her siblings Mary (Critelli) Gersitz, Margie Macri and John Costanzo. Dolores is survived by two children, Joanne (Franklin) Frisina of New City, NY and Gregory (Patricia) Pastore of Grand Island, NY. She is also survived by eight grandchildren and nineteen great-grandchildren. Prayers will be said at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL HOME, for her immediate family, but all are welcome for Dolores' Mass of Christian Burial on Monday, February 1, 2021 at 10:30 AM, in Holy Family at Mt. Carmel Church, 27th Street and Independence Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY. Interment will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery, Niagara Falls, NY. If desired, memorial offerings may be made to John R. Oishei Children's Hospital, 818 Ellicott St., Buffalo, NY. Visit www.mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for full obituary and online guest register.
Dorothy A. Wendel - June 19, 1935 - January 26, 2021, of Grand Island. For 65 years she was the loving wife of the late Donald J. Wendel; mother of Laura Matthews, Terry (late Colleen) Wendel, Marianne (Paul) Heinen, Mark (Louise) Wendel and Christopher (Marla) Wendel; grandmother of Jonathan Matthews, Andrea, Alison, and Tara Wendel, Julianne (Gregory) Becker, Andrew (Sarah) and Jacquelyn Heinen, Carolyn (Dave) Lansom, Brian (Christine), Michael (Jess) Wendel, and Elizabeth Wendel, Nicholas and Daniel Wendel; great-grandmother of Elliot and Jacob Matthews, Cora and Eila Lansom, Jeffrey Becker, and Claire Heinen; daughter of the late Raymond and Alma Cobb of Nashville, Tennessee; sister of JoAnn Escue and the late Herschel Cobb, LouEtta Serviss, Bill Cobb and Vilda Roy. Friends are welcome to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, at 11 AM, at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseine Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo. She married Donald Wendel in 1952, attended Doyle Beauty School and worked as a hairdresser for many years. She was a devoted mother and homemaker who loved and adored her family while living on Grand Island for over 50 years. Please share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Meredith Coleman Anding Jr. Aug. 31, 1941 - Jan. 8, 2021 - a retired University at Buffalo faculty member who was a pioneering civil rights activist in Mississippi, died Jan. 8 in Brandon, Miss., after a short battle with leukemia. He was 79.
Mr. Anding was one of the Tougaloo Nine, a group of students from historically Black Tougaloo College arrested for staging a read-in at the all-white main library in Jackson, Miss., in March 1961. Trained for the read-in by Medgar Evers, then-president of the Jackson branch of the NAACP, the group sat reading quietly at different tables in the library, which had books and other resources that were unavailable at Jackson’s Black library. They refused to leave when police arrived and were jailed, charged with breach of the peace. Their arrests led to demonstrations at Jackson State College and a march on the jail led by Evers. Found guilty, the nine students were fined $100 and given suspended sentences. The incident prompted a successful NACCP lawsuit to integrate the library in 1962, one of the first civil rights victories in Mississippi.
Born in Myles, Miss., about 40 miles southwest of Jackson, he was one of 11 children. His father, a refrigerator repairman, and his mother, a seamstress, moved the family to Jackson when he was a child. He first enrolled in Jackson State University after graduating from high school in 1958, then transferred to Tougaloo for his sophomore year. Active in the West Jackson NAACP Youth Council, he accompanied Evers on freedom rides. “The influence of my father and numerous negative experiences with Jim Crow laws certainly inspired my fight against inequality,” he wrote in a Viewpoints essay in The Buffalo News in 1995. His father was a member of the NAACP and one of his aunts, A.M.E. Logan, provided refuge for civil rights activists, including the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Taking part in the read-in cost Mr. Anding his financial assistance for college. He left for Chicago, where he had family, and worked at various jobs before enlisting in the Air Force in 1963. Stationed in Turkey and San Antonio, Texas, he was discharged in 1967 with the rank of staff sergeant.
He returned to Tougaloo, earned a bachelor's degree in mathematics in 1969 and came to Buffalo on a scholarship to UB, where he completed a master’s degree in math. At the university, he met Maurice Dianne Buggs, who also was studying for a graduate degree in math on scholarship, and they were married in 1970. He first taught freshman and sophomore math courses at Niagara University, then joined the UB faculty. He was director of mathematics at the university’s Learning Center, then was an instructor and associate academic coordinator at the Educational Opportunity Center. He retired in 2007.
Beginning in the mid-1980s, Mr. Anding and his wife traveled across the nation extensively by motor home. Members of the National African American RV Association, they attended rallies and made many friends. In retirement, they spent winters in Florida and Mississippi. Residents of Grand Island since 1990, they moved to Brandon, a suburb of Jackson, in 2019 to be closer to their son and his family.
Mr. Anding attended the program marking the 50th anniversary of the Tougaloo protest and the dedication of a Freedom Trail marker at the site of the protest in 2017. A longtime member of Bethel A.M.E. Church in Buffalo, where he was a member of the steward board, he had a passion for the outdoors, especially camping and fishing. In addition to his wife, a retired Buffalo high school teacher, survivors include a son, Armaan; four brothers, Dr. H. James, Versie, Winston and Guy; five sisters, Elaine Farrar, N. Deloris Archie, Yvonne J. Bracey, Nelva Johnson and Fyarlance R. “Renae” Wright; and two grandchildren.
John Howard Paasch - a long time resident of Chelmsford, MA, passed away on January 24, 2021.
John was born in Buffalo, New York on October 26th 1944 to Albertha (Grimm) and Howard John Paasch. John grew up and went to school in Buffalo and Grand Island, New York, graduating from Tonawanda High school. He continued his education at the Univsersity of Buffalo receiving his Bachelors Degree in Electrical Engineering in 1967. In 1967 John moved to Massachusetts to start his career as an Electrical Engineer with Raytheon Company in Bedford, MA. While working for Raytheon John graduated from Northeastern University with a Masters degree in Electrical Engineering. He also worked at the Raytheon facility in Andover, Tewksbury, Wayland and Sudbury Massaschusetts Throughout John’s thirty-seven year career working for Raytheon on the Sparrow and Hawk Missile Systems as an Integration Engineer he would travel to Point Magu and China Lake California, White Sands Missile Range in New Mexcio, Huntsville, Alabama, Germany and Crete, Greece.
John was diagnosed with Waldenstrom’s Microglobulinemia a rare form of lymphoma in 2004 and retired one year later. During the past sixteen and a half years he has been active in helping other people with his disease through his participation with the International Waldentroms’s Macroglobulinemia Foundation (IWMF). He would travel to area hospitals distributing informative materials for the IWMF as well as working at their yearly conference.
John enjoyed taking care of his fish pond and a little gardening. He also enjoyed exploring the coastal and country roads of New England in his VW convertible always with a stop to explore a new or familiar town, a new or familiar restaurant, farm stand, orchards for picking apples and peaches, or a picnic by the water. He also enjoyed entertaining his family and friends and was a very kind, and generous husband, brother and brother in law. We all will miss him.
He is survived by his partner and wife of 54 years Penelope Abraham Paasch, his brother Mark Paasch of Grand Island, New York, sister in law Linda Paasch Williamson, of Middleburg, PA, sister in law Judith Abraham and her wife Jean Williams of Williamsburg, MA, sister in law Alexandra Abraham Walter and her husband Charles of Arlington, VA, brother in law Harry Abraham of Billerica, MA and his partner Margaret Quinlan of Quincy, MA, sister in law Stephanie Gillies of Edwards, Colorado, sister in law Nadine Roberts and her husband Norman of Crossville, TN, , brother in law Stephen Grace and his wife Donna of Londondery, NH, brother in law Emil Abraham and his partner Donna of Littleton, CO, brother in law Sumner Joe Abraham and his wife Caroline of Port Orange, FL. He is also survived by Aunt Mary Shaheen as well as numerous cousins and nieces and nephews.
Anyone interested in making donations may do so to: International Waldenstrom’s Macroglobulinemia Foundation (IWMF), 6144 Clark Center Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34238 or The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS), PO. 12268 Newport New, VA 23612. Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, from 5:00 – 7:00 pm in the Blake Chelmsford Funeral Home, 24 Worthen St., Chelmsford. Due to gathering limitations, his funeral service and interment will be held privately.
Carl P. Kedrowski - Of Grand Island, NY, January 16, 2021. Son of the late Chester K. and Virginia S. (Kamrowski) Kiedrowski; brother of Kenneth C. (late Camille) Kiedrowski, Susan M. (Joseph) Salamone and the late Zachary Kiedrowski; uncle of Barrett (Jaime) Kiedrowski of Jarrettsville, MD, Bryant (Amy) Kiedrowski of Dublin, OH, Angela Snyder, James (Jacqueline) Salamone of Kissimmee, FL, Tatiana Salamone (David Lombardo) and Alexi Salamone (Shoshana Milich); also survived by ten great-nieces and nephews. Carl attended SUNY Fredonia, Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, NY and SUNY at Buffalo. He was the director of commercial production at WGRZ TV and received multiple Telly Awards, National Gold Awards and awards for creative excellence (ACE). He was a marketing consultant in NYS and Canada employed by NES Marketing Group, Gelia, Wells and Mohr Marketing Communications, Buffalo Advertising and Erie County Board of Elections. No prior visitation. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements were entrusted to: ERIE COUNTY CREMATION SERVICE, 824-6435. Please share your condolences at: www.eriecountycremationservice.com.
Dorothy B. (nee Sokolowski) Lew - Left us on January 21st at age 92. Born in Buffalo NY, Dorothy was a long-time resident of Grand Island where she was an active member of St. Stephen's Church. She served on the Altar Society, the Ladies of Charity, and sang in the choir. Dorothy hosted Bible Study in her home and served as a Confraternity of Christian Doctrine instructor. She was a Red Cross blood drive volunteer and was a past president of the Grand Island Golden Age Center. Dorothy was pre-deceased by her husband of 45 years, Alfred M. Lew. Dorothy is survived by her eight children, Frederic (Margaret), Thomas, Gary (Nancy), JoAnne (Patrick) Howard, Judy Lew (Sid), John, Peter (Sandy), and James, fourteen grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. No visitation due to Covid considerations. Funeral services will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to Catholic Charities of Buffalo. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Concetta (nee DiFranco) Vacanti - Of Grand Island, entered into rest January 17, 2021. Beloved wife of Charles D. Vacanti; devoted mother of Charles A., Eric M. and Michelle E. Vacanti; adored grandmother of Taylor Vacanti; loving daughter of the late Giacinto and Assunta DiFranco; dear sister of Giuseppe (Leslie) DiFranco, Sebastiana (Sebastiano) Madonia, Maria (David) Weber, Giovanna DiFranco and Nicoletta (Edward) Walsh; cherished aunt of many nieces and nephews. Friends and relatives may visit the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northtowns Chapel), Wednesday 3-7 PM with a funeral service at 7 PM. PURSUANT TO NYS COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS, OCCUPANCY GUIDELINES WILL BE FOLLOWED. PLEASE WEAR A FACE COVERING. Online condolences at www.lombardofuneralhome.com.
Terry B. Lawson - October 3, 1950 ~ January 15, 2021 (age 70). Beloved husband of Kathryn. Devoted father of David (Clemy) Lawson, Christie (Jim) Birch, Aimee (Pete) Hauer, Jim (Cat) Lawson, Tricia (Dan) Roosa, Matt (Nikki) Lawson, Greg (Beth) Lawson, Kara Lawson, and Kevin (Liz) Lawson. Loving Ada of his twenty-nine grandchildren. Dear brother of Mike (Lindsey) Lawson and Rick Lawson. Loving uncle of eleven nieces and nephews, and great-uncle of four grandnieces and grandnephews.
Terry passed away on Friday, January 15, 2021, at the age of 70 years. Visitation will be held Wednesday, January 20, 2021, from 3pm - 7pm at Vorhis & Ryan Funeral Home, 5501 Montgomery Road, Norwood, OH 45212. Traditional Catholic Requiem Mass will be held Thursday, January 21, 2021, at 10:45am at Immaculate Conception Church, 2310 Robertson Avenue, Norwood, OH 45212. Burial will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery.
Tom Zarbo - Of Grand Island, went to be with our Lord on January 18, 2021. Loving husband of 64 years of Elisabeth; father of Mark (Deborah) Zarbo, Heidi (Steve) Fritschi and Elisabeth Zarbo; grandfather of Mark (Emily), Matthew (Erin) and Joseph Zarbo, Heather (Kristofer) Sarik, Stephanie (Jeff) Kincaid, Eric (Selena) Calway and late grandson Zachary Zarbo; great-grandfather of Riley Kincaid and Luca Zarbo. Funeral Services will be held Saturday, at 11 AM, at Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Zachary Zarbo Memorial Fund c/o Financial Trust FCU, 2014 Grand Island Blvd., Grand Island, NY.
Tom had an adventurous and fun-loving spirit. He loved to talk about his service in the U.S. Air Force as an Information Specialist stationed in Nome, Alaska. His air force training formed his future shining careers as a photographer at the Buffalo News, News Reel Camera Specialist for WBEN Channel 4 and public relations for Bell Aerospace, Mennen Medical and Tops Markets. As a press photographer and cameraman, Tom covered many interesting events, celebrities and earned numerous public relation awards. He was a past Membership Chairman for the Industrial Audio-Visual Association. Tom also did outstanding Civic Service. Including his dedication to the Boy Scouts; serving as Scout Master and on the Tonawanda District Scout Council; past president of the Grand Island Lyons Club and, Grand Island Taxpayers Association. He was recognized by the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce as Civic Citizen of the Year. In addition, Tom loved camping, wood working, old cars, playing pranks and telling corny jokes. Tom was a lifelong member of Grand Island Trinity Church. He will be dearly missed by family and friends. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
William A. "Andy" Dannels - Of Lewiston, NY, age 92, died peacefully on January 15 in St. Petersburg, FL. The longtime resident of Grand Island will be remembered with much love by his nine children, 18 grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and his beloved companion of 22 years, Joan Heine. He was predeceased by his loving wife Arline (nee Adler) in 1997. Their nine children are Wayne of Mentor, OH, Susan Leach of Walden, NY, Diane Hannon of Oglesby, TX, Paul of Clarkston, MI, David of Rota, Spain, Christine Dawson of Brush Prairie, WA, Wendy of Brighton, NY, Colleen Cardarella of Grand Island, and Allen of Clackamas, OR. He is also survived by a sister, Joann Carbone, of Gainesville, FL and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother Bobby Dannels and sister Peggy Wilson. Andy was raised in Buffalo where he graduated from Bennett High School and then earned a degree in chemistry at Canisius College. He was employed by Durez Plastics, Hooker Chemical and Occidental Chemical. During his 40 year career he was awarded several patents in the field of plastics engineering. His interests included skiing, fishing, gardening and sailing. He was a member of Sandy Beach Yacht Club, where he raced a lightning sailboat that he built by hand. Over the years he also enjoyed trips to many countries around the world. Though a seasoned traveler, Andy was known especially for his devotion to home life, raising his family and making the home a pleasant place for all. He will be remembered as an honest, hard-working, wise, and caring person. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Gifts in Andy's memory may be sent to St. Peter RC Parish in Lewiston, NY or a charity of your choice. Online condolences may be shared at www.brettfuneralhome.net.
Gary M. Stott - Suddenly, Friday, January 15, 2021 at age 70, beloved husband of 46 years to Cheryl M. (nee Ferro) Stott; dear father of Gillian M. Stott and Courtney A. (Nicholas) Sinatra; loving grandfather of Henry J. Sinatra; brother of Kathy Sparks and Dana (Gary) Rzepa; also survived by nieces and nephews. The family will be present to receive friends Friday January 22, 2021 from 2-8 PM at the (Delaware Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 1132 Delaware Ave., Buffalo. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, January 23, 2021 at St. Stephen Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, NY at 9:30 AM. Family and friends invited. As you prepare to attend, please be mindful that Face Coverings and six foot separation are required at all times. Current capacity restrictions may cause delayed entry. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Gary's memory to Buffalo Renaissance Foundation, PO Box 322, Buffalo, NY 14205 or Sr. Johnice Response to Love Center, 130 Kosciusko St., Buffalo, NY 14212. Please visit Gary's Tribute Page to view his tribute video and share condolences at www.AMIGONE.com.
Ernest Beck - January 17, 2021, of Grand Island. Husband of Maria Beck; father of David (Kathy) Beck and Anita Gruber; grandfather of Victoria, Daniel, Joshua, Morgan and Jonathan; brother of late Kathy Asbach; also survived by nieces and nephews. Graveside Services will be held Friday, January 22nd at 2 PM, at Whitehaven Cemetery, 3089 East River Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Bible Fellowship Center. Ernest was a skilled instructor and a biblical scholar. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Rosemarie W. (nee Wilkie) McDonald - January 16, 2021, of Grand Island at age 89. Beloved wife of the late James W. McDonald; loving mother of Karen (Michael) McDonough, Kathleen (Donald) Tompkins, Patricia (Joseph) Mash, James (Cynthia) McDonald, Mary Jo (James) Russo; cherished grandmother of Christopher (Hannah) Tompkins, Kevin (Haley) Tompkins, Joseph Mash, Kelsey (Christopher) Carter, John Andrews, Tiller McDonald, Kathryn McDonald, Shannon Russo, James Russo; daughter of the late Charles and Mary (nee Brooker) Wilkie; dearest sister of Joyce (William) Stratis, and the late Elizabeth (late Al) Stieringer, late Raymond (late Patricia) Wilkie, and the late Eileen (late Bernard) Gallant and aunt to many loving nieces and nephews.
Rosemarie enjoyed travel, social events and outdoor activities with her husband Jim, children and grandchildren including trips to Europe, parties, Bills and Sabres games, sledding, skating, sailing, picnics even in the winter. Rosemarie loved to swim and enjoyed golfing. She was a long-time member of the Grand Island Women's Golf Association and the Grand Island Women's Club.
Rosemarie graduated from Kenmore West H.S. in 1949 and went on to work as a secretary at Western Electric. In addition to caring for her five children, she also worked as a teacher's aide for Buffalo Public Schools and for the YWCA after school program in Grand Island schools. Family and friends are invited to a Mass of Christian Burial on Friday, January 22nd at 9:30 AM at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. Social distancing and masks required. Burial to follow at St. Stephen's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Rosemarie's memory to Literacy, Inc. c/o Jeannine Nadler, P.O. Box 822, Katonah, NY 10536. She loved reading and children, and donations will support books for underserved children. Literacy, Inc. is a nonprofit supported by her grandson, John Andrews. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Lawrence J. Hillock, Sr. - age 76, passed away January 15, 2021 at his home surrounded by his loving family. A private Graveside service will be held Tuesday, January 19, 2021 at Parkway Memorial Gardens Mausoleum at 11:00 AM for family only. You can watch the service live by going to www.heritagememorialfuneralhome.com or https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/371720216. In lieu of flowers the family asks that you donate to The Ronald McDonald House of Macon, 1160 Forsyth St, Macon, GA 31201, St. Jude, 262 Danny Thomas Pl, Memphis, TN 38105 or your favorite children’s charity.
Larry was born in Buffalo, New York, on October 19, 1944 to the late John Hillock and Beatrice Hillock. Larry is also preceded in death by his sisters, Editha Kapoor and Lucille Floss and grandson, Kyle Hillock. Larry was raised in Grand Island, New York and served in Vietnam with the United States Marine Corp. He retired from TRW in 2002 as a project manager. Larry started the first local chapter of the Gold Wing Road Riders Association in Warner Robins, GA. He was a member of The Warner Robins Noon Optimist Club. Larry enjoyed spending time outdoors camping, canoeing, and traveling across the country in his motorhome with his wife. He was an avid reader and enjoyed researching genealogy. Larry was devoted to his wife, children and would never miss an opportunity to spend time with his grandchildren.
Larry is survived by his wife of 54 years, Dawn Merrill Hillock; children, Deanna Mines (Rodney), Larry Hillock, Jr. (Heather); grandchildren, Hannah Hillock, Trevor Mines, Erika Mines, Cameron Tagliaferi; siblings, John Hillock (Linda), Robert Hillock (Cindy), Linda Clark (Harold), Randon Hillock (Sue), Hilary Balderas, and numerous nieces and nephews. Please go to www.heritagememorialfuneralhome.com to sign the online guestbook and to leave a condolence for the family.
Susan A. (nee-Matis) Stoffan - age 93, beloved wife of the late George Stoffan entered into rest on Jan. 6, 2021 in Grand Island, New York. She lived in Lakewood, Ohio for most of her life where she was a member of Ss. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church and the First Catholic Ladies Slovak Union. She was best known for her wonderful baking and impeccable ironing and enjoyed camping, playing bingo, and going to the casinos but most of all cherished her time with family and friends. She is survived by her daughter: Barbara (Peter) Conrad, son: Mark Stoffan, grandchildren: Heather (Joseph) Hill, Chad Stoffan and Erin Stoffan, great grandchildren: Allison & Jason Hill. Besides her husband she was preceded in death by her son George A. Stoffan III and siblings : Joseph Matis, Mary Tutko, Helen Fencik, Veronica Petruchik & Anna Licsak. Funeral Mass will be celebrated Saturday 10:00am Jan.16, 2021 at Transfiguration Parish, 12608 Madison Ave., Lakewood (masks and distancing will be required). Interment will follow in Holy Cross Cemetery. MISENCIK FUNERAL HOME, 36363 Detroit Rd., Avon is in charge of arrangements. A Celebration of her life will be celebrated at a later date.
Ann M. (nee O'Donohoe) Hegarty - Passed peacefully on January 11, 2021 at age 85. Ann was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and steadfast friend to many. Born in Dublin, Ireland, Ann came to the United States in 1957 and proudly became a US Citizen in 2001. Ann lived most of her adult life in Carmel, NY, where she and husband Denis, Sr. raised their four children. In later years she resided on Grand Island. Ann loved spending time with her family, traveling and the theatre. Ann was predeceased by her husband Denis, Sr. and grandson Joseph. Ann is survived by her children Geraldine (Edward), James (Pamela), Raymond (Gina), Denis Jr. (Josephine); grandchildren Edward (Jessica), Katie (Dustin), Sarah, Charlie, Aurora, Molly, Cate; and great-grandchildren Grady and Owen. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. The family extends the most heartfelt thanks to the staff of Springhill Oakview and Forestview in Erie, PA for the wonderful care they provided. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a donation be made to a local food bank or women's shelter in her name. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Richard G. Furman - Of Grand Island, entered into rest on January 12, 2021, at the age of 72. Beloved husband of Carolyn (nee Brunner) Furman; devoted father of Courtney (Greg) Lovria and Scott (Hawa) Furman; cherished grandfather of Troy, Logan and Nadia; loving brother of his twin Michael Furman, John Mies and Cheryl Hausner; dear brother-in-law of Thomas Brunner and the late Brian Brunner; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Richard was a retired Buffalo Firefighter. Private Services. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Richards name can be made to the ALS Foundation. Arrangements by LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northtowns Chapel). Condolences at www.lombardofuneralhome.com.
Derek S. Mediak - Of Grand Island, entered into rest on January 13, 2021. Beloved husband of Lisa (nee Foley) Mediak; devoted father of Jason (April) and Lillian; loving son of Linda Mediak; dear brother of Marie Mediak and brother-in-law of Ed (Elly) Foley; cherished uncle of Lindsey and Cole; also survived by many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Relatives and friends may visit the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northtowns Chapel), 885 Niagara Falls Blvd. on Tuesday from 4-7 PM for a gathering in Derek's memory. Online condolences may be offered at www.lombardofuneralhome.com. Due to NYS guidelines, occupancy limits will be observed.
Gifford R. Peck - Age 82, of the City of Tonawanda, January 16, 2021, in Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital after a brief illness. Gifford was a U.S. Army veteran, retiring from the Army after 38 years of service. He had also worked as a printer for Royal Printing in Buffalo. He was a lifelong member of Union Hook & Ladder in the City of Tonawanda, and a lifelong member of the Grand Island Volunteer Fire Company. He was an active member of the United Methodist Church of Tonawanda. He was the husband of the late Barbara A. (Roe) Peck; beloved father of Lori (late Sidney) Tyrrell, Amyjo (Dan) DeCarlo, and Dawn (George) Garbutt; grandfather of Brittany and Tyler Peck and Dylan Richards. Friends may call at the FRETTHOLD & HAMP FUNERAL HOME, 37 Adam St., Tonawanda, on Friday from 5-7 PM. A funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Friday beginning at 7 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675 or Veteran's Hospital. Condolences may be shared at FrettholdandHamp.com.
Heidi M. (nee Merz) Lang - Age 59, January 15, 2021, of Grand Island, NY. Beloved wife of Michael Lang; devoted daughter of Joseph and the late Marianne Merz; cherished mother of Sarah Gefell, Laura Lang, Erik (Amy Newton) Lang and Leanna (Axel Barora) Lang; adored grammy of Elizabeth Gefell; dear sister of Joseph (Jane) Merz, Harald (Patricia) Merz and Peter (Diana) Merz; loving daughter-in-law of Ronald (Lori) Lang; also survived by nieces and nephews. Due to Covid restrictions, a Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date and time to be announced. Please share your condolences online with the family at www.lesterwedekindtfuneralhome.com.
Shirley J. (nee Kruse) Martin - Was called home by her Lord and Savior to rest and sleep with the angels on January 15, 2021. Shirley was born February 14 (Valentine's Day), 1926 to the late Christopher "Christ" Kruse and Rose (Kienzle) Kruse. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband Richard J. (Dick) Martin. She was the devoted mother to Christine (late Edward) Powell of Willis, TX, Carol (Doug) Neill of Willis, TX, and Cathy (David) Klemann of Christiana, TN. Cherished Grandmother of Amanda (Matt) Gregory, Emily (David) Koseluk, and Jagur (Kylie) Klemann and Great Grandmother to Sierra Gregory.
We are all very grateful to God to have had her in our lives. Shirley married her husband on September 11, 1948. They moved to Grand Island in 1951 where Dick started Modern Plumbing which they grew into a successful business. Shirley later worked for Fleischman Fuels before buying the business herself and operated it until she retired in 1993. Shirley was proud of her service to her community. She was a member of the Grand Island Zoning Board, Zonta Club of Grand Island, and the Grand Island Republican Committee. She was recognized for her accomplishments when she was named Citizen of the Year by the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce for her outstanding role in the business community. Shirley will be laid to rest beside her husband in St. Stephen's Cemetery on Grand Island. A celebration of life will be held at a future date. Please share memories and condolences on Shirley's Tribute Page at kaiserfuneral.com.
Barbara Lee (nee Harrison) Ressnan - Passed away at the age of 75 due to complications from a leg infection. She was raised on Grand Island and attended Sidway School, later graduating from Tonawanda Sr. High School. She is survived by her husband, C. Roger Ressman; daughter, Heather (Brett) Sahrle; and son, Jason (Lindsay) Ressman; she is also survived by five grandchildren: Matthew and Mackenzie Sahrle, Jett and Joey Neglia, and Jameson Ressman; in addition, she is survived by her brother, William Harrison of Hemet, California, and Betty Harrison of Wildomar, California.
She was a Speech Therapist at the Chestnut Ridge Elementary School. In addition, she enjoyed her time with her grandchildren, scrap-booking, knitting and reading. She also enjoyed a two-week vacation at Black Lake, NY for 20 straight years. Barbara was also very much at home with the Spencerport Rotary Club and attended Rotary functions with the many Past District Governors and their spouses. When it came to relaxing, she enjoyed her "Knit and Stitch Club", plus an annual trip with the "girls only club." To share a memory visit www.walkerbrothersfh.com. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Spencerport Rotary Club, P.O. Box 274, Spencerport, NY 14559. The funds collected will be sent to the Rotary Foundation. A memorial service will be held at a later date when the current health situation subsides.
Elizabeth "Liz" (nee Besio) AuClair-Smith - Of Grand Island, NY, entered into rest January 6, 2021. Beloved wife of the late Gerald AuClair and the late Robert Smith; devoted mother of Sandra (Darrell) Mondrala and Denise (Michael) McMahon; adored grandmother of Lynn Marie (Patrick) Reap, Cheri Beth Weber, Erin (Brian) Russo and Kerry-Lynn (John) Brown; cherished great-grandmother of Hunter, Conner and Mathew Reap and Dylan and Evan Russo; loving daughter of the late John and Lois Besio; dear sister of the late Norma (late Richard) Hess and the late Arlene (late Richard) Mowry. No prior visitation. Arrangements by the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northtowns Chapel). A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Friends and relatives may share their condolences online with the family at www.lombardofuneralhome.com.
Vincent J. "Vinny" Pantano - Beloved husband of Rosary Ann (Agati) Pantano; loving father of Michele (Michael) Lauria, Rosary Ann Cancilla, Andrea (Troy) Villafuerte, and Salvatore (Carla) Pantano; adoring grandfather of Michael, Bianca, Mitchell, Alexander, Vincent, Alexandra, Jenna and Vincent; loving brother of Salvatore (Lori) Pantano, and the late MaryAnn (late Sam) Monaco; son of the late Salvatore and Clara (Ziemecki) Pantano. The family will be present Wednesday, from 3-7 PM, at the PERNA, DENGLER, ROBERTS FUNERAL HOME, 1671 Maple Road. Family and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial celebrated from St. Stephen's Church (Grand Island), on Thursday,January 14th, at 9:30 AM. In lieu of flowers, donations in Vincent's name may be made to Hospice Buffalo, Inc. Vincent retired as a lieutenant after serving 32 years in the Buffalo police department. Condolences may be shared online at www.denglerrobertspernafuneral.com.
Phyllis Ann (nee Handley) Pierce - Age 84 of Grand Island, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2021 from COVID-19. Phyllis was born in Niagara Falls to the late Charles E. Handley, Sr. and Evelyn I. (nee Dennis). She was a Niagara Falls High School graduate and was employed as a Secretary at Hooker Chemical until she left to raise her children. She was a member of the St. Paul's United Methodist Church Choir, Hooker Chorus, a longterm member of Trinity United Methodist Church, WOW, and The Bishop's Committee. She worked as a Volunteer for the Grand Island Help Center. She was an amateur artist who drew for her children. She enjoyed musical concerts and theatrical productions. She traveled extensively to visit family members across the country. Phyllis spent her final three years as a resident of Rosa Coplon Living Center at the Weinberg Campus in Getzville where she was admired and loved by the nursing staff for her friendliness, as she happily marched up and down the hallways.
She will always be cherished by her family and friends for her caring warmth, joyful laughter, and sunny smile. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, and faithful friend who deeply touched the lives of others. Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her stepmother, Dorothy Handley; brother Charles E. Handley Jr.; and daughter Susan E. Pierce. She is survived by her devoted and beloved husband of 61 years, Halbert E. Pierce III; son David (Robin) Pierce of San Antonio, TX; and daughter Amy (Anthony) Pacini of Land o'Lakes, FL; brother Robert (Debi) Handley of North Tonawanda; sister-in-law Jane Handley of Dublin, OH; many cousins, nieces, a nephew, and close friends. A memorial service will be held at Trinity United Methodist Church on Grand Island at a future date. Share condolences at www.kaiserfuneral.com.
Janeene (nee Phance) Stoddard - Of Mesa, AZ, a resident of Grand Island for over 50 years, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2021 at the age of 82 to join her recently departed husband and best friend Fred of 61 years. Survived by two sons Paul (Lisa) and Phil (Jill) and one daughter Amy (Wylie); grandmother to ten grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Janeene served as a registered nurse for over 45 years working the ER night-shift at Kenmore Mercy Hospital in Tonawanda and the Banner Healthcare System in Mesa, Arizona. She was a talented artist who also loved cooking, sewing, and tackling a challenging crossword puzzle, when she and Fred weren't traveling. She cherished the time spent with lifelong friends and was always making new ones in retirement through her golf, painting and quilting groups. An avid Bills fan to the end. A Memorial will be planned for late spring. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Jean E. Wholahan - January 7, 2021, age 106, of Grand Island. Wife of the late Allan D. Wholahan; mother of Clifford B. (Inger) Wholahan of Blaine, MN, Paul M. Wholahan of Grand Island and the late John D. Wholahan; grandmother of James Wholahan of San Diego, CA and Emma Smith of Louisville, KY; also survived by two great-grandchildren; sister of the late Arthur Wilbanks. Funeral services private. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Addition by Leonore Tetkowski: In Memory of Jean Wholahan.
We should not let the death of Jean Wholahan at age 106 on January 7 go without remembering and appreciating her amazing,, very long life on Grand Island. She has been an inspiration for me since the 1950s, when her husband, Allan, and I worked on the Citizens' Committee for the High School. It was Jean who encouraged me to join the League of Women Voters, which became a major part of my life. In her quiet, modest way she worked diligently on various committees for an informed electorate. She took on necessary work like League budget preparation. It was Allan who had the first computer of anyone we knew, and who was deeply involved in using his new skills to work with us on League publications, like preparing “Know Your Officials”.
Many meetings and much committee work led to our deep ongoing friendship. As Jean aged she continued her lifelong interest in good government, and even when her eyesight was failing, managed to follow news events. She never missed a voting opportunity.
Her ability to remain independent until well after her 100th birthday astonished her friends. Her clear memory allowed her to share with me very early experiences of her childhood and early youth. Her interest in annual geranium plantings and activities of her little Island Presbyterian Church, of which she was a founding member, continued throughout her life. Her optimism never failed!
I drove her to a garden nursery for her to chose her geraniums each spring. I remember the one that turned out to be the last time. As I was dropping her off back at her home, Jean thanked me and said, “Will you do this for me next year?” I replied, “Sure, Honey!"
Nicholas A. Beyers - January 3, 2021, of Niagara Falls, formerly of Grand Island. Brother of Joseph (Glenda) Beyers, Jean (the late Rod) Waldrip and Allen (Diana) Beyers; son of the late William and Genevieve Beyers; uncle of Ashley and Eric Hoffmeister; also survived by many cousins. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Jane M. (nee Biggie) Goris - January 8, 2021, of Grand Island. Beloved wife of the late Charles H. Goris; loving mother of Lynne (George) Heim, David (Sally) Goris, Valerie (Randy) Downey, Cheryl (Keith) Kloesz, Daniel (Kim), Jeffrey (Tina) and Michael (Jennifer) Goris, and Jacqueline (Patrick) Foote; cherished grandmother of Eric, Kimberly, Melissa, Kevin, Stephanie, Jennifer, Kelly, Robert, Amanda, Laura, Danielle, Michaela, Heather, Kelsey, Trevor, Matthew, Morgan, Jeffrey and the late Michael David; also survived by 14 great-grandchildren; sister of Joan Frey. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday, January 12th at 11 AM at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Robert W. Pickel, Sr. - Age 84, of Grand Island, died peacefully January 7, 2021. Robert retired as the Senior Vice President of Finance for the Buffalo Sabres. He was a US Marine Corps Veteran. He served as the President of the Board of Directors for Summer Bay Resorts in Orlando, FL. Robert was a respected youth coach and mentor.
Beloved husband of Lorraine (Balsdon) Pickel for over 64 years; father of Robert W. (Kathleen) Pickel Jr., Michael G. (Ann) Pickel, Jeffrey D. (Debbie) Pickel, Lori N. Collignon, and the late Karen L. Coomber; grandfather of Jacob (Margie), Rachel, Alexander, Jeffrey Jr. (Emily), and Shannon Pickel, Courtney, McKenna, and Cameron Collignon, Ashley L. (Greg) McQuiggan, Ranier Kahn, and the late B.C. Coomber; great-grandfather of five great-grandchildren; brother of Cheryl Angell. Friends may call at the FRETTHOLD & HAMP FUNERAL HOME, 37 Adam St., in Tonawanda, on Monday, January 11th from 4-8 PM. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday at 11 AM, interment in Elmlawn Cemetery. Flowers gratefully declined, if so desired memorials may be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, or the Nickel City Canine Rescue, 5635 Harris Hill Rd., Williamsville, NY 14221. Condolences shared at FrettholdandHamp.com.
