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Barbara A. ‘Barb’ Marino - 85, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away on February 2, 2025, at her residence. Born in Niagara Falls, NY, she was the daughter of the late Anthony and Mary (Lungaro) Marino. Barb was a graduate of Niagara Falls High School. She was employed as a Crossing Guard for the Town of Grand Island for over 35 years, and concurrently was working at St. Stephen’s RC School on Grand Island as a Cafeteria Aide for the past 15 years. ‘Mrs. C’ or ‘Grandma Three’, as Barb was affectionately known, loved to cook and bake. She was also an avid fan of the New York Yankees. Barb also cherished her pets, but above all, was happiest when she was spending time with her children and grandchildren.
Barbara is survived by her children, Rebecca Cacciatore, John (Pamela) Cacciatore, and David (Annmarie) Cacciatore; her grandchildren, Alexis Cacciatore, Melinda Schultz, Victoria (Alex) Potenza, and Roman Cacciatore; her cherished cousin, Ralph Perri, as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 5, from 3 – 7 PM at M.J. COLUCCI AND SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, NIAGARA FALLS, NY 14304. Barbara’s Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, February 6, at 12 Noon at St. Stephen’s Roman Catholic Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island, NY 14072. Everyone please assemble at church. Interment in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Lewiston NY. If desired, memorial offerings may be made to the Niagara County SPCA, https://www.niagaraspca.org/. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.
Austin J. "Augie" Giambra - Feb 4, 2025. Of Grand Island. Beloved husband of Kathleen Giambra. Cherished father of Franklin (Jacqueline), Anthony (Barbie) and Michael (Jennifer) Giambra and Kris (Brian) Ailinger. Loving grandfather of 10 and loving great grandfather of 8. Dear brother of Kathleen (Sam) Granelli and the late Thomas (survived by wife Penny) Giambra. Loving son of the late Frank and Vera Giambra. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday February 10 at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Mary Ida Miller - Feb 11, 1925 - Jan 31, 2025. Of Grand Island, New York passed away peacefully with loved ones by her side. She was born in Font Hill Canada. Mary was the daughter of the late Edmund Venator and the late Dorothy (Bartz). She eloped to Tennessee with Clyde Miller on March 11, 1945 and they were married for 40 years until Clyde passed away in 1985. They settled in the Riverside area of Buffalo before moving to Grand Island, New York in 1984. Mary lived another 40 years on Grand Island. Over the years Mary worked at General Motors, Brinks, and Neisner Brothers. After her children became adults, Mary worked for many years caring for the children, Sarah and Joseph, of Mr. Mostafa and Dr. Sue Tanbakuchi. Caring for them brought her immense joy and resulted in lifelong friendships with the family.
Mary made friends easily. It was not unusual for strangers to strike up a conversation with her because she had a pleasant smile and a good sense of humor. Even in her final days, her wit and humor shown through. Mary, having lived nearly a century, witnessed profound changes in the world, while remaining a source of love and wisdom for family and friends. For many years she attended weekend bingo games and made many friends while enjoying the game. Above all, she dedicated her life to her family and friends who will all miss her dearly. Mary is survived by her daughters Charlotte Harp and Kathy Fassbinder (George); daughters-in-law, Janice (late Alfred) Miller and Diane (late Gary) Miller; a brother, Dr. Edmund Venator; a sister Mayon Pierchala; 9 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Mary was preceded in death by her husband Clyde, her sons Alfred and Gary Miller, her brothers Donald (Marsha) Venator, Gerald (Barbara) Venator and Doug (Debbie) Venator. Friends may call Tuesday, February 4th, 11:00 am-1:00 pm at the LESTER H. WEDEKINDT, INC. FUNERAL HOME, 3290 Delaware Ave. where a Funeral Service will follow at 1:00pm. Please share online condolences at Lester H. Wedekindt Funeral Home Inc., Kenmore, NY.
Lisa A. (nee Dinsmore) Szpakowski - January 20, 2025 of Lockport, formerly of Grand Island. Wife of Michael Szpakowski. Mother of Jonathon M. and Lyle J. (Christine) Szpakowski. Grandmother of Racheal, Lyle Jr. and Myles. Daughter of Lyle (Kathleen) and the late Diane Dinsmore. Sister of Deborah (late Edward) Miller, Jeffrey (Judith) and Gregory Dinsmore. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Saturday February 1, 1-4 PM followed by memorial services Saturday at 4 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island.
Joseph Peter Pinzotti - of Grand Island, NY, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many, passed away suddenly, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and a life well-lived.
Joe, the son of the late Peter J. Pinzotti and Mary B. Pinzotti (Palumbo), is survived by his devoted wife of almost 55 years, Marsha Pinzotti (Hoffer), and his three cherished daughters: Marcella (Brian) Panaro, Christine (Shawn) Lodovico, and Mary (Christopher) Burns. He was the proud and loving grandfather of nine grandchildren: Joseph Lodovico, Dominic Panaro, Louis Lodovico, Tessa Panaro, Vincent Lodovico, Christopher Burns, Mia Burns, Lorenzo Burns, and Paul Burns, each of whom brought him immense joy and pride. He is also survived by his three sisters, Marion Fabiano, Rubina Pinzotti, Tina Pinzotti and many nieces and nephews.
Born with a passion for life and a knack for making connections, Joe owned and operated Niagara Sample Book Company until 2017. His dedication and entrepreneurial spirit were a cornerstone of his life. Outside of work, he had a deep love for anything with a motor, whether it was a boat, car, or motorcycle and always had a project going. Joe was a long-time member of the YMCA, where he played handball with the same charisma and determination that defined his life. He was known for his larger-than-life personality, quick wit, and the ability to strike up a conversation with anyone he met. He was a ball-buster with a heart of gold, whose generosity and love for his family knew no bounds.
Above all, Joe's family was his greatest treasure. He was a steadfast supporter, always ready to lend a hand or share his wisdom. His laughter and love will echo in the hearts of those who knew him. In lieu of flowers, Joe’s family asks that you honor his memory by raising a glass with your loved ones. Celebrate his life the way he would want: with a drink, a story, and the company of those who matter most. Rest in peace, Joe. You will be missed but never forgotten. A celebration of life will be planned in the near future.
Barbara G. LaDuca - Nov 23, 1937 - Jan 24, 2025. Of Grand Island, NY, the greatly loved wife of Angelo F. LaDuca for 65 years; the cherished mother of Paul LaDuca and Vinnie Bonfante, Peter and Mary Beth LaDuca, Alan LaDuca and Laurie Hoefer, David and Beth LaDuca; and a long time close friend of Emi Fuwa from Japan, who she treated as a daughter. She was loved by her grandchildren Christopher and his wife Scotlynne, Matthew, Grace, Jonah, William, Philip , Joseph and the children of Emi, Yuri and Nanase who treated her as their American grandma.
The daughter of Peter and Bertha Gugino, the sister of Susan and Dr Joseph Cardamone and Marge and Dr. Eric DuMond. Barbara was raised in Niagara Falls, graduated from Niagara Falls High School class of '59 and graduated from Buffalo State Teachers College class of '62. Barbara taught in Niagara Falls 66th St School for 3 years and retired from teaching at St. Edmonds Catholic School in Tonawanda after 18 years. She was a long time member of St. Edmonds Bishops Committee, the St. Stephens Prayer Group, the Grand Island Read & Feed Book Club and was honored by Niagara County Hospice for her years of Hospice volunteer work. Barbara was active in Kairos Prison Ministry, annually collected a large amount of school supplies for the Ladies of Charity and had a project of collecting and distributing hundreds of children's books for programs that assisted needy children. She was co-founder of The Almar Family Foundation, which was established to assist programs that help children in need.
Barbara was greatly loved by everyone who knew her. She loved to read, enjoyed travel to many foreign countries and enjoyed communicating with many people on a regular basis. The family will be present for visitation at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, located at 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island from 2 to 8 p.m., on Friday, January 31st. There will be a Mass of Christian Burial at ST. STEPHEN CHURCH, located at 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, 14072, on Saturday, February 1st at 10 a.m. Flowers are gratefully declined. If desired, memorial donations may be made to www.niagarahospice.org. Please share online condolences at www.kaiserfuneral.com.
Jack E. Skinner - Of Grand Island passed away in the McAuley Residence, Kenmore, NY, under the excellent care of Hospice after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born August 23, 1944, in Columbus, OH, to Norman and Phyllis (Kenney) Skinner. He is survived by his wife Marjorie (Ruslink) Skinner of 55 years. He is also survived by Carol Ruslink (Rob) Glasier. Additionally survived by nieces and nephews, Dawn (Tom) Kaliszewski, Kathy Deist, Scott (Christine) Ward, Brian (Lea) Meade, Stephen (SarahBeth) Glasier, Christin Glasier, Alison Meade, and Corey (Cynthia) Ruslink. Also survived by great-nieces and nephews. He maintained connections with his cousins even though they all lived many miles away.
Jack and Marge were blessed with the best neighbors the O'Donnells and Runicks. In addition to his parents, Jack was predeceased by Ruslink sibs, Donna (late Jack) Deck, Bill (late Sherry) Ruslink and Nancy (late Bill) Meade. Jack was a proud graduate of Chautauqua Central School, and enjoyed reunions. Although he was a self-proclaimed Bench Warmer on the CCS basketball team, Jack made solid connections with Niagara University Men's Basketball team members that have remained for decades and with the "adopted" guys that accompanied Jack and Marge to the games. Jack was a voracious reader which made him everyone's selection for their team of Trivial Pursuit. Jack and Marge relished time on Cape Cod in a cottage his uncle built.
Growing up on Chautauqua Lake, Jack showed an early interest in nature. He was shaped by a bird guide gifted by Aunt Nannie. Jack enjoyed and was valued at several nature societies including the Allegany Nature Pilgrimage, having served as chair, attending for more than 40 years. He found Owl Prowl, Bugs at Night, and Bird Banding to be especially interesting. His interest in music ranged from Bob Dylan to the Buffalo Philharmonic. Jack spent almost as much time looking skyward as he did with nature, and found the study of space to be fascinating. Jack followed his father's military calling, and spent 37+ years with the United States Air Force. He visited over 60 countries and 49 states. Jack considered it a privilege to serve with the 914th Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station with men and women of integrity who prioritized life and liberty. Jack was blessed to accompany the Honor Flight to Washington June '24.
He was a member of the Grand Island American Legion, St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church, Aero Club of Buffalo, Buffalo Audubon, Buffalo Geological Society, nature clubs in person and online, and a life member of Mayville VFW. He was a Pheresis blood donor. Jack was a good man, a man of quiet, strong faith, a loving husband, kind neighbor, and friend. Memorials can be designated to St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church, Aero Club of Buffalo, Buffalo Audubon, Hospice Buffalo or charity of your choice. Calling Hours are Friday, January 31st from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd. Grand Island. Funeral will be Saturday February 1st at 11 a.m. at St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1453 Staley Rd, Grand Island. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Anibal "Andy" Colon - Aug 24, 1949 - Jan 19, 2025 Of Grand Island, entered into rest January 19, 2025. beloved son of the late Ventura Sr. and Epifania (nee Santiago) Colon; loving brother of Ventura (Susana) Colon Jr., Rosa (Pedro) Morales, Esther Colon, Hector (Marta) Santiago and the late Ada Colon; also survived by many nieces, nephews and friends. Relatives and friends may visit the Lombardo Funeral Home (NorthTowns Chapel) 885 Niagara Falls Blvd. (near Eggert/Sheridan) Amherst on Friday from 12:00 - 2:00PM where the service will immediately follow. Entombment Mt. Olivet Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Andy's memory to Long ICF people INC., 2437 Long Rd. Grand Island, NY 14072.
Victor W. Shores - Jan 19, 2025, Of Grand Island. Husband of Barbara (nee Fifield) Reynolds Shores. Father of Victor M., Christopher M. (Kimberly), Vincent W. (Jamie) and Jennifer J. Shores and Michelle (Brian) VanVolkenberg. Step Father of Patrick Reynolds Jr. Also survived by many grandchilderen, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Brother of Michael (Julie) Shores. Friends may call Saturday, January 25, 2-8 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehven Rd., Grand Island. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Shawn W. Vaine - Jan 16, 2025. Of Grand Island. Son of the late William and Lynne Vaine. Brother of the late Holly (late Robert) Rovison. Uncle of Bobby and Matthew Rovison. Partner of Dawn Heitman. Step father of Alyssa and Haylee Heitman. Grandfather of Ariella Heitman. Friends may call Friday, January 24 from 5-8 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Thomas Eric Kilmer - Jan 14, 2025 Of Scio, NY, formerly of Grand Island, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 69. Tom was the loving father of Amanda Kilmer and Julie Kilmer-Grunzweig (Charles), and a devoted Papa to his granddaughter Nina Grunzweig. He was the son of the late Wilton "Pete" and Barbara "Jean" Kilmer, and father to the late Jennifer Kilmer. He is also survived by his sister Lisa Hogrewe and her children Cassidy and Cody Hogrewe. Tom leaves behind many dear friends whom he cherished. Tom was most passionate about hunting, fishing, and cooking, and treasured his time spent up north with his daughters and granddaughter. He will be deeply missed by family and friends. A visitation will be held at Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island on Monday, January 20, 2025, from 3 to 7 PM. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Tom Tetreault - January 11, 2025, of Grand Island, born August 4, 1928. Devoted husband (Marjorie Tetreault, deceased April 2012), father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, friend, caregiver, and master lender of tools. Survivors include daughter Lynn (Duane), son Scott (Kim), five grandsons Kyle (Diana), Jordan (Annie), Casey (Emma), Brock (Samantha), Ryan, and three great grandchildren. Services will be private. Memorials may be made to Trinity Church, Grand Island, Memorial Fund or Hospice Buffalo (https://www.hospicebuffalo.com/). Mr. Tetreault was born in Cranberry Lake, NY, was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force, and worked at Union Carbide (Linde) for more than 35 years. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Margaret E. Giles - Jan 07, 2025. With deep sadness, we announce the passing of Margaret E. Giles, age 89, of Grand Island, New York. Margaret left us on January 7, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love and treasured memories. A true southern gem, Margaret was born on July 1, 1935, in Evansville, Indiana. She married her beloved husband, Alvan H. Giles (Jerry) in 1953, and the two spent many happy years together, traveling and growing spiritually. Margaret dedicated her life to her family and community. She worked as a special education teacher at BOCES, and her commitment extended beyond the classroom. She was actively involved in numerous local charities and organizations, always eager to lend a helping hand. Margaret and Jerry hosted several international students over the years, opening their home and providing comfort to many. Margaret was a devoted mother to her daughter, Aliene Reimann (Timothy), and a cherished grandmother to her four grandchildren: Matthew Reimann of Washington, D.C., Marissa Sekelsey (DJ) of Olyphant, Pennsylvania, Morgan Reimann (Meagan) of Grand Island, New York, and Mark Reimann (Shaula) of New York, New York. Visitation hours will be held on January 10, 2025, at Kaiser Funeral Home 1950 Whitehaven Rd, Grand Island from 5 to 7 PM Followed by a memorial service on Saturday, January 11, 2025 at Trinity Church, 2100 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island at 11 AM.
Peter T. Xanthos - Mar 13, 1926 - Jan 1, 2025 Resident of Grand Island since 1958. Born in Waterbury, CT. Son of the late Theodore and Toula Xanthos. Brother of the late Georgia Kaousias. Beloved husband of 71 years of Athena (nee Georgeson) Xanthos. Loving father of Christine Boomhower, Thomas and the late Theodore Xanthos. After graduating from Wellsville, NY High School, he served 18 months in the Navy Pacific Theater of World War II aboard the Landing Craft Attack Transport USS Bingham in battles of Saipan and Okinawa. After graduating from Kent State University and the University of Buffalo he became a New York State Public Accountant and started his own successful accounting practice on Grand Island for over 50 years until his retirement. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church, 2587 Baseline Rd., Grand Island where Memorial Services will be held Wednesday at 10 AM. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.
Betty J. (nee Boyd) Marinell - Mar 26, 1921 - Dec 31, 2024 Of Grand Island, NY, at age 103. Betty leaves behind her daughter, Patricia (late Stuart H. Short) Feinen, stepson, Michael (Joanne) Marinell, grandchildren, Rachael (David Kreger) Short, Bridget (Robert) Ray, Marissa (Mark) Draksic, Jon-Michael Marinell, and her beloved furry friend, Florian Koszalka. She was preceded in passing by her cherished husband, Frank Marinell, parents, Ambrose and Mollie Boyd, son John (Jean) Feinen, Jr. and sisters, Leah Gollwitzer and Phyllis Bermel. Betty will be fondly remembered by her many great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and treasured friends. Her favorite activities included traveling, bingo, $1 scratch tickets, and her Sunday card club. She enjoyed events and gatherings at the Grand Island Golden Age Center for many years. There are no prior visitations. Funeral Services will be held privately at the convenience of the family. Interment Elmlawn Cemetery. If desired, donations in Betty's memory may be made to Cradle Beach at https://cradlebeach.org/donation/ Please share your online condolences at www.KolanoFuneralHome.com.
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