DEATHS - 2005
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Beverly von Craigh Striebich, 54 in Tucson, Arizona, December 1, 2005. Survived by husband, Michael Striebich; siblings Barbara, Bertha, Francis (Ted), and Terry. NO other information available.


 Shirley G. Schultz of Grand Island, a horse trainer and the first president of the Grand Island Parent-Teacher Association, died Saturday, January 14, 2006 at home after a long illness. She was 82. Born Shirley Rohde in Buffalo, she was a graduate of Riverside High School and spent most of her life on Grand Island. Mrs. Schultz worked for many years as the business manager of the family business, Schultz Appliance Service. Her involvement in the start of the Grand Island PTA earned her a life membership. Along with her family, she owned and operated White Oak Farm on Grand Island, where she raised, trained and showed Arabian horses. Her horses earned three national Top 10 rankings and numerous regional championships. A member of the Women's Republican Club and the Grand Island Republican Party, Mrs. Schultz also was a member of the National Campers and Hikers Association, the Bridgehoppers and the Niagara-Genesee Airstream Group. Her husband, Paul F., died in 1992. She is survived by four daughters, Sally (Norman) Brandon of Clinton, Tenn., Suzanne (James) MacKay of Amsterdam and Rebecca (Keith) Everett and Mary Beth (Jeffrey) Smith, both of Grand Island; two sons, William (Tracy) Schultz and Paul (Lynda) Schultz II, both of Grand Island; and numerous grandchil- dren; and great-grandchildren. Friends may call Tuesday, January 17, 2006 from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to The Bible Fellowship Center, 1136 Baseline Rd., Grand Island where the family will be present Wednesday, January 18 from 10-11 a.m. followed by Funeral Services at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Trinity Cemetery, Grand Island.

 Raymond J. Tutton , a retired professional chef, died January 6, 2006 in a Brandon, Florida hospital after a lengthy illness. He was 60. Born in Buffalo, Mr. Tutton was a graduate of Emerson Vocational High School and Culinary Arts Institute of Connecticut. He was a teacher for Orleans-Niagara Board of Cooperative Educational Services and was the head chef of Richard Ray's restaurant. Mr. Tutton served as president of the Professional Chefs Association of Western New York and was named the organization's former "Chef of the Year." He had lived in Buffalo and Grand Island before moving to Florida in 1996. Survivors include his longtime companion, Richard Czerwik of Riverview, Florida; two sisters, Patricia Kaczor of Lancaster and Susan Loynes of Clarence; and a brother, Kenneth of Durango, Colorado. A memorial service will be announced at a later date.

 Jean D. Lansberry, January 11, 2006. Mrs. Lansberry, a resident of Grand Island for 50 years, was born in Cathas, PA and formerly worked at Acme Markets on Grand Island. Wife of Harold O. Lansberry; mother of Pamelia (Benedict) Moraca, Brad (Catherine) Lansberry and the late Barry Lansberry; grandmother of Jennifer (Christopher) Newby, Bradley J. Lansberry and Brandon Moraca; sister of Bernard (Ellie) Koval and the late Hester Gropper, Andrew, Leonard and Jerry Koval. Friends may call Thursday, January 12, 2006 7-9 p.m. and Friday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, January 14 at 10 a.m. at Stephen's Church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Arthur C. Ellsworth, 77, on Saturday, January 7, 2006, of Grand Island; husband of the late Lauraine P. (Miller) Ellsworth; father of Laura (Dr. Alfred) DiStefano of Ft. Worth, TX, Nancy (late George) Perkovich, Vicki (Dale) Yoder of Grand Prairie, TX, Craig of Grand Prairie, TX and Scott Ellsworth; also survived by nine grandchildren, and nieces and nephews; grandfather of the late Matthew DiStefano; brother of Marg (Peter) Burns of Ottawa, Howie (Marg) of Vancouver and Fred (Kathy) Ellsworth of Toronto. Friends may call Thursday, January 12, 2006 only 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island where funeral services will be held Friday, January 13th at 11 a.m. Memorials to the Grand Island Fire Company, 2275 Baseline Road, Grand Island, NY 14072. Mr. Ellsworth was a retired teacher at the Ken-Ton School System and was a member of the Grand Island Fire Company, and the Eggertsville-Grand Island Lodge 1138 F&AM under whose direction Masonic Services will be held Thursday at 7:30 p.m.

Julia Margaret Hulbert, former Grand Island, NY resident, of Fort Myers, Florida, passed away in her home Saturday, December 24, 2005. Born in Tonawanda, she was a former employee at Bell Aircraft in Niagara Falls where she met her husband, John Keightley Hulbert. Mr. and Mrs. Hulbert also lived in Ohio and eventually moved to Highland, Michigan. Mrs. Hulbert moved to Florida in 1988 after the death of her husband. A memorial service will be held in Shipshewanna, Indiana in April 2006. Donations in her memory may be made directly to the local Humane Society.

Robert J. MacKenzie, former Grand Island, NY resident, went to the Lord and eternal peace on January 5, 2006 at the age of 78 years. He was born in Barre, VT on October 18, 1927, son of Alexander MacKenzie and Bessie Griffin. Devoted husband, father and grandfather. We do not mourn, we celebrate his new life with the Lord. The dear Lord has custody of one of the most brave, gracious, caring and loving persons he ever created. We know he is pleased to have him home. He will live with us who remain in this life; his wife of 48 years, Sylvia (Blanchet) of Penfield; his daughter, Jacqueline and her husband, Theodore Hahin of West Seneca, NY; his son, Timothy A. MacKenzie of Buffalo, NY and his daughter, Alison and her husband, John Weisbeck of Penfield; his grandchildren, MacKenzie and Kirsten Weisbeck, and Megan Hahin; his sister, Catherine Perreault of Barre, VT. He was predeceased by his sister, Eunice MacKenzie. He also leaves many relatives, nieces and nephews along with many dear friends who loved him dearly. All are invited to St. Jerome's Church in East Rochester where a Memorial Mass for Robert will be celebrated on Saturday, January 14, 2006 at 11 a.m. (no prior calling). The family will hold a private burial service in Vermont at a later date. In accordance with his wishes, contributions may be made to the James P. Wilmot Cancer Center, 601 Elmwood Ave., Box 704, Rochester, NY 14624 or St. Jerome's Church, 207 So. Garfield St., East Rochester, NY 14445. Arrangements by Harloff Funeral Home, East Rochester, New York 585-586-5948.

Jerry Thirion Sr., a former Grand Island resident, passed away December 22, 2005 very peacefully as he entered Heaven to be with his Lord. He was born in Buffalo, NY on May 1, 1916 to Dr. Rene V. Thirion and Alice L. Thirion (nee Perry). He was preceded in death by his loving and devoted wife, Eleanor (nee Jerge); and by his sister, Renee Sherlock. Jerry is survived by his son, Jerry (Diana) Thirion Jr. of Naples, FL; his daughters, Renee S. (Jeffery) Wulf of Madison, WI and Denise M. (Robert) Schmidt of Fort Lauderdale, FL. He is survived by six grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. Also surviving him is a sister-in-law, Doris Gleisner of Orchard Park, NY; a brother-in-law, William Renowden of West Seneca, NY; and several nieces and nephews. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, January 27, 2006 at 10:00 a.m. at St. William Catholic Church, 750 Seagate Drive, Naples, FL. In lieu of flowers or other expressions of sympathy, it is suggested that contributions be made in Jerry’s name to Casa Jacinta y Francisco, 5021 Maxwell Circle, No. 201, Naples, FL 34105, an orphanage in Central America was very special to Jerry, or to any charity of your choice.

 Ralph J. Rathman, formerly of Grand Island, of Wheatfield, January 6, 2006, beloved husband of Judith VanSice Rathman; dear father of John 'Jay' of Las Vegas, NV, Darlene (George) Knab of Cornelius, NC, Julie (Adam) Barrett; grandpa of Madelyn Knab; son-in-law of Margaret VanSice; brother of Roger (Phyllis), Kathleen (Joe) Armone, Karen (James) Stone, Karol Boyd, John (Donna) Rathman of Rancho Sana Margarita, CA; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends may call at D. LAWRENCE GINNANE FUNERAL HOME, 3215 Delaware Ave., Kenmore, from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Monday, January 9, 2006. All are invited to a Funeral Service at St. Paul's United Church of Christ, 7416 Campbell Blvd. at Tonawanda Creek Rd., North Tonawanda, Tuesday January 10, 2006 at 1 p.m. Please assemble at church. Memorial contributions to Visiting Nurses Assn. or The Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens Society, Inc. are preferred.

 Evelyn V. (Ragnar) Barclay, December 27, 2005, of Grand Island, formerly of Niagara Falls; wife of Robert D. Barclay; also survived by three step-children; 11 step-grandchildren and 24 step-great-grandchildren; sister of the late Margaret and Roy Ragnar; aunt of David (Peggy) Ragnar and Linda Roe. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Island Presbyterian Church, 1822 Huth Road, Grand Island, NY 14072, where a Memorial Service will be held Saturday, January 14, 2006 at 1:00 p.m.

 Celia “Sally” Sutter, December 23, 2005.
A Mass of Christian Burial for Celia Sutter, of Grand Island, will be offered at 10 a.m. today (Wed., Dec. 28, 2005) in St. Stephen Catholic Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island. Mrs. Sutter died Friday, December 23, 2005, in Riverwood Nursing Home after a lengthy illness. She was 78. Known as "Sally," she was born Celia Slazyk in Niagara Falls. She was a graduate of Niagara Falls High School and attended the University of Missouri. Mrs. Sutter raised and trained Labrador retrievers. Her hobbies included duck and deer hunting, fishing, gardening and travel. Her husband, Gerald E., died in 1977. Survivors include a daughter, Paula Wiegand of Kenmore; two sons, Michael (Diane) Sutter of Grand Island and Timothy Sutter of Albany; two sisters, Sonia Williams of Grand Island and Helen Dube of Evansville, Ind.; a brother, Walter(Leona) Slazyk of Lewiston; grandchildren Joseph (Michelle) Wiegand, Stacey, Amanda and Jessica Sutter; and one great-granddaughter, Maeve Riona Wiegand. Mrs. Sutter was the daughter of the late Joseph and Stella Slazyk. Friends may call from 7-9 p.m. Monday, December 26, 2005 and 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. TuesdayDec. 27th at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to the American Lung Assn.

 William J. Berger, December 20, 2005, lifelong resident of Grand Island; husband of Doris R. (Raymond) Berger; father of Eric (Susan) Berger, Dale (Lynn) Berger and Nancy (Mickey) Saxbury; grandfather of Tori, Jessica, Billy, Kyle and John; brother of Betty (Dean) Wolcott of Mancos, CO. Friends may call Thursday, December 22, 2005 only, 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island. A family memorial service will be held at a later date.

Mary (Honey) Serianni, (nee Junquera) December 16, 2005 of Grand Island, formerly of Niagara Falls, NY. Wife of the late Salvatore Serianni; beloved mother of David L. (Joyce) of the Town of Niagara and Joseph M. (Kara) Serianni of Grand Island; loving grandmother of Ashley and Christina Serianni; sister of the late Plazido and Jose Junquera, Eusebio 'Sev' (late Estelle) Junquera and Alberta (late Vincent) D'Aloise; also survived by several nieces, nephews and cousins. Friends may call Sunday, December 18, 2005 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Rd., Niagara Falls, NY, where funeral services will be held Monday, December 19, at 9:45 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. in St. Joseph Church, 1413 Pine Ave., Niagara Falls, NY. Entombment St. Joseph Cemetery, Niagara Falls, NY.

Beverly V. (Biggie) Stolfo, December 14, 2005. Beloved wife of the late John Stolfo; dearest mother of John Stolfo, Robert (Patricia) Stolfo and Suzette Stolfo-Casey; loving grandmother of Ashley, John, Frank, Alyssa, Christina, Robert, Anthony and Joseph; sister of Sharon (George) Schoen, Karen (Joseph) Beck and the late Diane McFadden. The family will be present to receive friends Tuesday, December 20, 2005 4-6 p.m. with a service to start at 6 p.m. at The Chapel at Cross Point, 500 Cross Point Pkwy., Getzville, NY. Flowers gratefully declined. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to Niagara Hospice Foundation.

Edward Standora Sr., of Grand Island, who retired from AT&T Bell Laboratories in Murray Hill, N.J., died Wednesday, December 14, 2005 in the New York State Veterans Home, Batavia. He was 82. Born in Nanticoke, Pa., he was an instrument toolmaker by trade and spent most of his life as a resident of Chatham, N.J. Mr. Standora was a decorated Army veteran of World War II, serving in the South Pacific, where he earned the Purple Heart and Bronze Star for valor and oak leaf cluster. He served as a technical sergeant in the 187th Glider Infantry Regiment of the 11th Airborne Division. During his 34 years at Bell Laboratories, he was involved in the development of communications projects, ranging from the deployment of the first transatlantic telephone cable to Telstar, the nation's first communications satellite. After his retirement he moved to Grand Island, where he was an active parishioner at St. Stephen's Catholic Church and enjoyed attending Bible study classes. He relaxed by painting and was an avid gardener and nature lover. His wife of 52 years, the former Wanda Shypulefski, died in 1999. Survivors include a son, Edward (Susan) Standora, Jr. of Grand Island; granddaughters, Bonnie and Michelle Standora; and stepgrandchildren Paul, Adrienne and Timothy Hutchins. Mr. Standora was the brother of the late Stephanie Modrzakowski, Emily and Leopold Standora. Friends may call Sunday, December 18, 2005 only 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 10 a.m. Monday, December 19th in St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Memorials may be made to the American Red Cross for Katrina Relief.

 A Mass of Christian Burial for Lena A. (Incorvia) DeFazio was offered Saturday, December 17, 2005 in St. Stephen Catholic Church, Niagara Falls. Burial was in St. Joseph Cemetery, Niagara Falls. She died Wednesday, December 14, 2005 in Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital, Amherst, after a brief illness. She was 84. Born Lena A. Incorvia in Niagara Falls, she attended local schools. She moved to Grand Island in the 1980s and into ElderWood at Riverwood Health Care Facility in April 2004. A former member of St. Stephen Church, she was a former member of the Golden Agers Club in Niagara Falls and Sacred Heart Church in Niagara Falls. She enjoyed cooking, baking, crocheting and playing cards. Her husband of 46 years, Russell J., died in 1988. Survivors include two sons, Charles R. (Arlene) DeFazio of Strongsville, OH, and Russell D. (Cherie) DeFazio of East Aurora; a daughter, Janice (Les) Kurpiewski of Grand Island. She was the mother of the late Gerald DeFazio. Also survived by a brother, Joseph Incorvia of Dunedin, Fla.; four sisters, Anna Massaro of Niagara Falls, Rose DiBlasi of Lawtons,Vincinetta Quarantillo of Niagara Falls and Josephine Rao of Deposit, 10 grandchildren; and a great-granddaughter. Visitation was held Friday, December 16, 2005 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Rd., Niagara Falls, NY. Interment in St. Joseph Cemetery, Niagara Falls. In lieu of flowers donations to National Parkinson Foundation or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

 A memorial Mass for Patricia J. Arcouet of Grand Island, was offered Friday, December 16, 2005 in St. Stephen's Church, Grand Island. Burial was in United German & French Cemetery, Cheektowaga. Mrs. Arcouet died last Monday, December 12, 2005 in Erie County Medical Center after being hit by a car on Bedell Road on Grand Island that day. She was 67. Born Patricia Secula in Shamokin, Pa., she was a 1956 graduate of Kulpmont High School. While working as a secretary at the U.S. Justice Department in Washington, D.C., she met her husband, Harold J. They married on May 25, 1957. She enjoyed art, bingo and traveling. In addition to her husband, she is survived by two sons, Harold J. Jr. of Grand Island and Jeffrey of Sanborn; two daughters, Susan (Randon) Hillock of Grand Island and Shelley (Robert) Smith of Gilbertsville, Pa.; a brother, John Secula of Marion Heights, Pa.; and four sisters, Anna Labowski of Marion Heights, Mary Mudrick of Philadelphia, Rosemarie Spieles of Norristown, Pa., and Dolores Seroski of Reno, Nev. Patricia was the grandmother of Amy, Kathryn, Thomas, Michael and Jacob. She is also survived by a sister-in-law, Veronica Demick, and many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Thursday only 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Memorials to the Grand Island Fire Co. or the Neighbors Foundation of Grand Island, PO Box 155, Grand Island, NY 14072.

 Stanley J. Kwiatkowski, December 11, 2005, of Grand Island, husband of Patricia (Bowman) Kwiatkowski; father of Kim (Linda) Kwiatkowski, Cindy (Terry) Mesmer, Cheryl (George) Barker, Jill (David) Pfalzer, Jeff (Janell) Kwiatkowski, Beth (Salvatore) Lauricella and the late David Kwiatkowski; papa of George, Christopher, Scott, Heidi, Kerry, Bryan, Lucas, Kris, Kelly, Matthew, Thomas, Emily, Brandon and Salvatore; brother of Phyllis Bernier and Robert Kupczyk; son-in-law of Celestine 'Sally' Szemenciak; also survived by nieces and nephews. Friends may call Tuesday and Wednesday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Please assemble at church. Memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.

 Erin K. Keenan, of Grand Island, a junior at Canisius College, died unexpectedly Saturday, December 3, 2005 in Kenmore Mercy Hospital, Town of Tonawanda. She was 20. Born in Brooklyn, the daughter of the late Thomas H. Keenan, former basketball coach and dean of students at Canisius High School, she was a graduate of Nardin Academy. She played basketball and softball at Nardin and was listed in "Who's Who of High School Students." Ms. Keenan was studing history and secondary education at Canisius College and planned to study for a semester at the University of Galway in Ireland starting next month. A former Town of Tonawanda resident, she was a camp counselor at the Town of Tonawanda YMCA for six summers and recently worked part time at the Barnes & Noble bookstore on Niagara Falls Boulevard, Amherst. She was a member of St. Michael Catholic Church. Surviving are her mother, Kathleen F. (McGovern) Keenan of Grand Island; two brothers, Tommy of New York City and Brian of Kenmore; and her grandmother, Kathleen McGovern of Brooklyn. Also survived by many loving aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Predeceased by grandparents, the late Francis McGovern, and Thomas and Ruth Keenan. The family will be present to receive friends Wednesday, December 7th and Thursday, December 8th from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the (Delaware Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 1132 Delaware Ave. where funeral services will be held Friday morning at 9 a.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 10 a.m. Friday in St. Michael Church, 651 Washington St. Friends invited. Flowers gratefully declined. If desired, memorials may be made in Erin's memory to The Erin Keenan Memorial Scholarship for Study Abroad c/o Canisius College, 2001 Main St., Buffalo, NY 14208. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Town of Tonawanda.

Jeannette K. Riley, December 3, 2005 of the Town of Tonawanda, and Grand Island, NY; beloved wife of the late William Elwood Riley; mother of Alan E., James E. (Andrea) and the late Robert B. Riley; grandmother of David (Dawn), Kevin (Heather) and Jason (Lisa) Riley; great-grandmother of Chace, Paiyton, Layne and Bryce. Friends may call Monday, December 5, 2005 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the LESTER H. WEDEKINDT, INC. FUNERAL HOME, 3290 Delaware Ave. where Funeral Services will be held Tuesday morning, December 6, 2005 at 10. Friends invited. Flowers are gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Green Field Health and Rehabilitation Center. Mrs. Riley was a former medical secretary at Kenmore Mercy Hospital for over 20 years.

Marietta R. (Rindone) Ferro, a resident of Florida, formerly of Grand Island, suddenly at 87 years old on November 29, 2005. Beloved wife of the late Joseph Ferro, Jr.; dear mother of Cheryl M. (Gary) Stott; dear grandmother of Gillian and Courtney Stott; dear sister of Genevieve (late William) George, Blaise (Betty), Lewis (Sybil), Guy (late Rachel) Rindone and the late Mary (John) Fontana and Lib Rindone; also survived by many nieces and nephews. The family will be present Friday, December 2, 2005 from 6-8 p.m. at the (Tonawanda Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 2600 Sheridan Dr. (at Parker Blvd.). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, December 3 at 10 a.m. in St. Stephen RC Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Response to Love Center at St. Adalbert Basilica, 212 Stanislaus St., Buffalo, NY 14212. Arrangements by AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC.


Eldein Godzisz, November 27, 2005, of Grand Island. Mass at St. Stephen's Church, Grand Island at 10 a.m. Thursday, December 1, 2005. The family will be present at the Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial VFW Post 9249, 2121 Grand Island Blvd., Grand Island following the Mass. Family is receiving donations to memorialize Eldein by purchasing "bricks" for the "Walk Of Life Brick Walkway" at the Roswell Park Cancer Institute in her name. Donations may be sent to the Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial VFW 9249 in Eldein's name. These will be forwarded to the family.

 Carmela A. Palumbo, an active churchwoman at St. Joseph Catholic Church, died in her son's Grand Island home Sunday, November 27, 2005 after a brief illness. She was 98. Born in Niagara Falls, the former Carmela Amendola attended local schools and was a lifelong resident of Niagara Falls, until moving to Grand Island five years ago to live with her son and daughter-in-law. She married William G. Palumbo in St. Joseph Church in Niagara Falls. He died in 1989. She helped with her son's former business, Wing King, on Pine Avenue in Niagara Falls. Mrs. Palumbo was an active member of St. Joseph Church in Niagara Falls for 90 years. She was devoted to St. Anne and assisted with collections for flowers and contributions for the annual St. Anne's Mass at the church. She also volunteered counting weekly church donations and contributions. Mrs. Palumbo was a member of St. Joseph Anime Sante Del Purgatorio Society, the Congrega Madonna Del Perpetua Soccorso Society, the Societa Del Madonna Di Carmine and the St. Joseph Senior Society. Survivors include her son, William J. of Grand Island; three grandsons; and four great-grandsons. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, December 1, 2005 in St. Joseph Church, 1413 Pine Ave. Prayers will be said at 10 in Colucci & Son Funeral Chapel, 468 19th St. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

 Dorothy J. Wallace, November 27, 2005, formerly of Grand Island. Mother of Jean (Paul) Leiner and Larry (Ann) Wallace; grandmother of Paul H. (Susan) and Betsy Leiner; great-grandmother of Bethany Leiner; sister of Edith Johannes and the late Clarence, Clifford, Leo and Mildred Johannes. Friends may call Wednesday from 2-4 and 7-8:30 p.m., followed by funeral services Wednesday, November 30, 2005 at 8:30 p.m. at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Alzheimer's Assn. of WNY.

Veanna L. Schwanebeck, a former member of the Grand Island School Board, died Thursday, November 24, 2005 in her home in Spotsylvania, Va., after an illness. A former resident of Grand Island, N.Y. and Lewistowne, Illinois, she was 63. Born Veanna O'Malley in Canton, Ill., Mrs. Schwanebeck moved to this area with her husband in 1970. She was an interior designer, working as an independent contractor and for Ethan Allen. She was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church on Grand Island and the United Methodist Women's Club. Mrs. Schwanebeck was a longtime member and former vice president of the New York State PTA. She also was a former member and vice president of the Grand Island School Board in the late 1980s. Mrs. Schwanebeck was a member of Friends of Grand Island Library and had volunteered in Women's Auxiliary Services at Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center. She and her husband, Lloyd C., recently had moved to Virginia. Other survivors include two daughters, Elizabeth Woodruff of Palm Harbor, Fla., and Ellen of Alexandria, Va.; a sister, Marcia Lidwell of Somonauk, Ill.; and two grandchildren. Services and burial will be Wednesday, November 30, 2005 in Lewistown, Ill.


    James J. Malaney, November 25, 2005, of Grand Island; husband of Diane C. Malaney; father of Amber Malaney and Megan Malaney; stepfather of Alex (Rachel), Krystal, Stephen and Robert Rumsey; son of Jean and the late James Malaney; brother of Eileen (Rick) Vogel; Michael (Carol) and Kevin Malaney; also survived by nieces and nephews. Friends may call Monday, Nov. 28th only 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday, Nov. 29th at 10 a.m. at St Stephen's Church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.

    Geelin L. Wong, of Amherst, a former General Motors plant worker who fulfilled her American dream of owning and running a clothing store, died Wednesday, November 23, 2005 in the Center for Hospice & Palliative Care, Cheektowaga, after a battle with bile duct cancer. She was 52. Born Geelin Lue in Pingtung, Taiwan, Mrs. Wong moved to the United States with her family in 1966, settling on Grand Island. She graduated from Grand Island High School and earned an associate's degree from Bryant & Stratton Business Institute. She worked for 15 years as a clerk at the GM plant in the Town of Tonawanda until she opened up her store, Lin's Fashion & Alteration, at 3329 Bailey Ave. Mrs. Wong was active in her church, Trinity Old Lutheran, where she was the chairwoman of the women's group. She also enjoyed playing racquetball. Survivors include her beloved husband of 20 years, Warren G. Wong; a daughter, Jennifer M. Wong of Amherst; and two sisters, Bette Bertram of Lexington, Ky., and Hua Moa of Grand Island and three brothers and one sister in Taiwan. Friends may call Saturday, November 26, 2005 and Sunday, November 27th from 4-7 p.m. at the HARRY A. WEDEKINDT FUNERAL HOME, INC., 280 Grover Cleveland Hwy. at N. Bailey. Services will be held at 10 a.m. Monday in Trinity Old Lutheran Church, 3445 Sheridan Drive, Eggertsville. Memorials may be made to the Trinity Old Lutheran Church for benefit of Jennifer W. Wong Scholarship Fund. Burial will be in White Chapel Memorial Park, Amherst.

   A Mass of Christian Burial for Helene Mysliwiec of Grand Island, co-owner and operator of a driving school, was offered Saturday, November 19, 2005 in St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church in the Town of Tonawanda. Burial was in St. Stephen Cemetery, Grand Island. Mrs. Mysliwiec died Friday, November 18, 2005 at home after a short illness. She was 71. Born Helene Julesa in Buffalo, she was an honor student and graduate of Riverside High School and worked as a senior stenographer in Roswell Park Cancer Institute for more than 14 years, until she left to raise her children. Mrs. Mysliwiec and her husband, James, owned and operated the Suburban Driving School since 1972. He was president and she was vice president of the company, which trained drivers throughout Western New York. She was active in the company until her recent illness. Survivors include her husband of 44 years; a daughter, Valerie; and a son, James J., all of Grand Island; and seven grandchildren.

    Vernon N. “Red” Martell Sr., November 19, 2005, of Grand Island; husband of Betty Martell; father of Randy L. (Pam) Martell, Sr., Jo Ann M. (Shawn) Smith, Sandra L. (Charles) Valentino and Vernon N. (Tracy) Martell, Jr.; also survived by 13 grandchildren, five brothers, one sister and many nieces and nephews. Friends may call from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. on Sunday, November 20, 2005 at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, where Funeral Services will be held Monday at 11:00 a.m. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to the American Lung Assn. or to Hospice Buffalo. Mr. Martell was formerly garage foreman at the Courier Express for over 20 years and was currently employed at Ficel Transportation.

    Arlene Gates, who ran a flower shop and later worked in the antiques business, died Nov. 8 of heart failure in McAuley Residence, Town of Tonawanda. She was 84. Born Arlene Rothrock in Bradford, Pa., she graduated from Smethport High School. She lived in Frewsburg for 52 years until moving to Grand Island in 2002 and to Buffalo this year. Mrs. Gates founded and ran Gates Flower Nursery in the late 1950s and later worked in home health care, the antiques business and as a store clerk. She retired in 1989. Mrs. Gates enjoyed landscaping, gardening and collecting antiques. Her husband, Rolland F., died in 1968. Survivors include two daughters, Carol Lynn Gates Stearns of Columbus, Ohio, and Lori Ann of Buffalo; a son, Rolland H. of Columbus, Ohio; three grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. A memorial Mass will be offered at 10:30 a.m. today (Saturday, November 19, 2005) in St. Joseph's Catholic Church, 1451 Payne Ave., North Tonawanda.

   Charles R. (Bob) Rexford, 78 of the City of Tonawanda, a former manager at Durez Plastics, died Wednesday in Buffalo General Hospital after a short illness. His family resided on Grand Island for many years. He was the husband of 56 years of Jacqueline A. (nee Matthews) Rexford; father of Fred W. (Deborah) Rexford of the City of Tonawanda, Holly A. (Pat) Maloney of Buffalo, Kelly J. (Ken) Koleff of Williamsville, Robin E. (Greg) Woodard of Fredericksburg, Va. and Carrie V. (Chris) Frigon of the City of Tonawanda; grandfather of Ryan, Sean, Hillary, Meghan, Jason, Jessica, Casey, Carley, Tristan and Tori; great grandfather of Hunter and Sydney; brother of Patricia (Gilbert) Andersonn of Farmington, Minn., Constance Lewis of Harpswell, Maine, Paul (Joan) Rexford of Gaines, Pa., David (Ceil) Rexford of the Town of Tonawanda and the late William and John (late Wynn) Rexford and brother-in-law of Doris (late William) Rexford; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Born in Gaines, Pa., Mr. Rexford, who was known as Bob, had lived in the City of Tonawanda for 38 years. He worked in management at Durez Plastics in North Tonawanda for 30 years. After retiring in 1985, he was a consultant for the company for four more years. Mr. Rexford, who served in the Merchant Marines from 1945 to 1948, was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Tonawanda and a former member of the North Tonawanda Elks lodge. He enjoyed fishing. Friends may call on Friday, November 18, 2005 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at JOHN O. ROTH FUNERAL HOME, INC., 25 William St. (between Morgan & Broad Sts) in the City of Tonawanda. A Memorial Service will be held at First Presbyterian Church, 149 Broad St. in the City of Tonawanda, Saturday, November 19, 2005 at 11 AM. Friends invited. Flowers declined, memorials may be made to First Presbyterian Church or to the American Lung Association of WNY.

   Gregory Thomas Hajski, 41, passed away unexpectedly in Van Nuys, California on November 2, 2005. Born in Niagara Falls on March 27, 1964, Greg lived with his family on Grand Island, NY for several years where he attended kindergarten at Kaegebein School. His family moved to Ohio in April of 1970. He was a resident of Elyria and North Ridgeville, Ohio and was a 1982 graduate of North Ridgeville High School. He is survived by his mother, Patricia A. (Williams) Meyer, of Medina, Ohio; his father, Robert Hajski, of Vermilion, Ohio; a sister, Shari S. Akin of Elyria, Ohio; a brother, Robert A. Hajski of Sheffield Lake, Ohio. Also survived by nephews J. Matthew Akin of S. Amherst, Ohio; Jared A. Akin of Elyria, Ohio; and Robert P. Campbell of North Ridgeville, Ohio. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, John and Elizabeth Williams of Wells, Vermont, and paternal grandparents, Felix and Sophie Hajski of Venice, Florida. A private memorial will be held at a later date. Arrangements by the Bauer Funeral Home of Valley City, Ohio.

   George A. Overs, 84, died Saturday, November 12, 2005 in Frederick Memorial Hospital, Frederick, Md., after a short illness. beloved husband of 63 years of Susan (Bobro) Overs; father of Cameron (Martha) of Frederick; grandfather of Lan. Cpl. Jonathan, Julia and Laura, all of Maryland; brother of Dorothy (Glen) Simons of Fort Erie and the late Kenneth, Larry and Marion. Friends may call Tuesday 2-4 and 7-9 at the LESTER H. WEDEKINDT, INC. FUNERAL HOME, 3290 Delaware Ave. Friends are invited to attend Funeral Services in St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church, Grand Island, Wednesday morning, November 16, 2005 at 10 a.m.. Flowers are gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to St. Martin's Church. Burial will be in Elmlawn Cemetery, Town of Tonawanda. Born in Buffalo, he grew up in Black Rock and attended Seneca Vocational High School. He served in the Army Air Forces during World War II and saw action in England and France, where he was wounded. He worked as a broadcast engineer for WBEN-TV, Channel 4, for 28 years, retiring in 1978. Mr. Overs, with call letters W2UZB, was a ham radio operator for 60 years and was a life member of the American Radio Relay League. A longtime Grand Island resident before moving to Maryland six years ago, he was a charter life member of the Grand Island Historical Society and a life member of the Grand Island Memorial Library. He also was a member of the Disabled American Veterans.

   Elizabeth M. Squire, November 3, 2005, of Grand Island, NY. Mother of Robert J. Bzinak of Cheektowaga; daughter of Roger Squire of Franklinville and the late Patricia nee Devine; sister of Leo James Squire of Baden, Pennsylvania. Private graveside services will be held Saturday, November 12, 2005 in Mt. Prospect Cemetery in Franklinville, NY. Memorials to the Hospice of the donor's choice. Arrangements under the direction of Babbitt & Easton Funeral Home, Franklinville, NY.

   Thomas C. Roberts, 85, passed away peacefully Wednesday, October 19, 2005 at his home in Salida, Colorado. During his last days, he was surrounded by his wife, children and members of his extended family. According to a family member, "There is nothing he cherished more than his family and friends. Until the very end, his humor and wit shown through."
   Born on June 12, 1920 in Buffalo, to Dr. Carroll and Marie (Pfohl) Roberts, he attended St. Mark's Grammar School and Bennett High School in Buffalo. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps from June 1943 to December 1945 where he flew Army transport aircraft, including the C-47. He instructed new pilots prior to entering the Air Corps, and during his military service, he flew missions in Africa and Italy, along with other locations in the European Theater.
   Tom married Hortence (Smokey) Briesacher on December 4, 1945, and following his discharge they came back to Buffalo. They moved to Grand Island in 1953 where Tom subsequently opened The Thomas C. Roberts Insurance Agency on Grand Island Boulevard. He continued its operation until his retirement in 1982. Tom and Smokey moved to the city of Montrose, Colorado in 1988.
   Tom was a dedicated member of the Catholic Church, at St. Stephen's on Grand Island and St. Mary's in Montrose. A charter member of the Knights of Columbus chapter on Grand Island, he was also a member of the Montrose Knights of Columbus chapter, where he obtained his 4th degree and served as its Grand Knight. Tom was also active in Grand Island community affairs, having been a member of the Lions Club and a Republican committeeman. He continued his community involvement in Montrose, where he volunteered his services to Meals On Wheels and the Montrose Historical Society.
   Survivors include his wife, Smokey, of Salida, Colorado; his children: Thomas Jr. of Golden, Colorado; Stephen of Ketchikan, Alaska; Douglas of Buena Vista, Colorado; Elizabeth (Beth) of Fairplay, Colorado; and Clark of Salida, Colorado. Also, surviving are brothers and sisters: H. Buswell Roberts of Buffalo; Mary Jo Gardner of Cave Spring, Georgia; Harold Roberts of Buffalo; and Carol Marie Foote of Wadsworth, Ohio. He was the grandfather of four and great grandfather of two and is also survived by many nieces and nephews. His brother, Dr. William T. Roberts, preceded him in death.
   A memorial was held at Bongo Billy's Salida Cafe, 300 W. Sackett, Salida, Colorado.

 Mildred F. (Smith) Burgett, November 3, 2005. Wife of the late John Burgett and Clarence Bartholomew; mother of Patricia (Jeff) Laing, Pamela (Wayne) Wood and the late John (Jean) Bartholomew; stepmother of Walter Burgett Sr.; grandmother of Steven Bartholomew, Christina and Scott Laing, Savannah Wood; step-grandmother of Walter Burgett Jr., Tracy Allen and Thomas Turner; great-grandmother of Debra, Tarra, Steven J. Bartholomew, Amanda and Josh Burgett; sister-in-law to Barbara Rennie. Friends may call Sunday from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, NY, where funeral services will be held Monday at 11 AM. Interment Elmlawn Cemetery. Mildred was a member of New Covenant United Church of Christ (Grand Island), Golden Age Club and Kibler Senior Apartments.

 Barbara L. (Lavland) Kay, November 3, 2005, of Grand Island, N.Y. Wife of the late Thomas Kay; mother of Carla (Joseph) Samodulski of Hicksville, N.Y. and Gregory Kay of Grand Island, N.Y.; sister of Diane (the late Gary) Brewster and James (Grace) Layland; also survived by nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday from 4-6 p.m. at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, N.Y.

John J. Stolfo Jr., suddenly, November 1, 2005; devoted father of John J. Stolfo III, Robert J. (Patricia) Stolfo, Suzette Casey; also survived by eight grandchildren; son of the late John J. and Jeanette (Tomasulo) Stolfo. Friends may call at the JOSEPH SPANO & SONS FUNERAL HOME INC., 473 Niagara Street on Friday from 4-8 p.m. Prayer services at 7:30 p.m. Mr. Stolfo was an accomplished business man on Grand Island for thirty years. Flowers gratefully declined.

 Howard W. Juhre, October 31, 2005, of Grand Island. Husband of Norma M. Juhre; father of David W. and Paul A. (Merrill) Juhre; grandfather of Tanya (Joe), Shawn (Regina), Adam, Marty, Mary and several other grandchildren; great-grandfather of Christianna, Leah and several other great-grandchildren; brother of Doris Bowery and Robert (Elaine) Juhre. Memorial Services will be held Saturday at 10 a.m. at KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven RD., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to Hospice Buffalo Inc. or ECBC Church, PO Box 26, Grand Island, NY 14072. Mr. Juhre was a WW II Veteran and Past Patron of Betsy Ross Chapter O.E.S. 699.

 Opal R. (Richards) Guenot, Of Grand Island, NY, October 26, 2005, loving wife of the late Robert F. Guenot Sr.; dearest mother of Robert Jr. (Ruth), Richard W. and Terance L. (Leah); loving grandmother of 12 and great-grandmother of 14; sister of Louise Slayton, of Cofax, LA. A Memorial Service will be held at a latter date. Interment at Keewyden Cemetery, PA. Funeral arrangements by the URBAN BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, INC., 665 Transit Rd., East Amherst, NY..

 Robert G. Bennett, former Grand Island, NY resident, Thursday, October 13, 2005, in Bayonet Pt., Florida. A retiree of New York Telephone, Mr. Bennett and his wife, Jean, were active in many organizations on Grand Island including the Grand Island Masonic Lodge, Grand Island Court - Order of the Amaranth, The Grand Island Figure Skating Club, and the Neighbors Foundation. He was the Chapter Advisor of Isle Chapter Order of DeMolay for four years and District Deputy of the Northern Erie DeMolay District. Chairing the annual Independence Day Parade on Grand Island for many years, Bob and Jean were recognized as Citizens of the Year and "Grand Island's Bi-Centennial Couple" in 1976. Born and raised in the Love Canal area of Niagara Falls, New York, Bob and Jean moved to Grand Island to raise their family after Bob's service in the United States Army. After retirement in the late 1970s they moved to Bayonet Point, Florida where Bob was active in the local church, Shrine and "High Twelve" Club. The Bennetts kept in contact with many Islanders, past and present, including Adeline and the late Homer Livingston, and the late Jan and Mort Siegel. Bob was a 25-year cancer survivor. Besides his wife, Mr. Bennett is survived by his son, Robert W. (Susan) of Clemson, SC; his daughter, Lori Ann (Mike) Egloff and his loving grandchildren. Interment at Florida National Cemetery, 6502 SW 102nd Avenue, Bushnell, FL 33513. A memorial service will be scheduled at a later date.

OTTUMWA, Iowa- Mary Alice Comer, 70, formerly of 615 E. Mary St., of Grand Island, New York, died October 6, 2005, at Millard Fillmore Hospital in Buffalo, New York. She was born February 8, 1935 north of Floris, Iowa to William Alfred and F. LaVelle Smallwood Kendrick. She married Jack Carder. They divorced. She married Leo T. Comer October 6, 1989. He preceded her in death June 1, 2000. A 1952 graduate of Eldon High School, she worked at Standard Kollsman, Riverside Industries, Everco, Hormel and the American Legion. She was a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church, Altar and Rosary Society, Catholic Daughters of Americas, Ottumwa Women's Club, a life member of O.B. Nelson Unit #3 American Legion Auxiliary, a life member of Water B. Schafer Post #775 Veterans of Foreign Wars Ladies Auxiliary, and Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie #114 Auxiliary. Surviving are two sons, Dennis Carder of Grand Island, New York and William Carder of Indianola; a daughter, Kathryn Turner of Panama City, Florida; four grandchildren; two step grandchildren; two step great-grandchildren; a sister, Carol Penrod of Ottumwa; a brother, J. Daniel Kendrick of Keokuk. Funeral Mass will be at 10 a.m. Friday, October 14, 2005 St. Patrick Catholic Church with Father John Spiegel officiating. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. Thursday, October 13 at Reece Funeral Home. The rosary will be recited at 5 p.m. Thursday with a Christian Wake at 7 p.m. at the funeral home. The family will be at the funeral home from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday. A memorial has been established to St. Patrick Catholic Church.


   Elizabeth Louise Beach, 81, a resident of Grand Island, died on October 6, 2005, at Millard Fillmore hospital of cardiac arrest following surgery.
   Elizabeth was the youngest of seven children born to Guy and Anna Armstrong of Indianapolis, Indiana. Her life-long interest in theater and drama was evident at an early age when her father required the older children to remain at the dinner table to watch “Betty” perform.
   Following graduation from Marian College, Elizabeth enlisted in the Navy and was stationed in Corpus Christi, Texas where she taught instrument flying to naval pilots. There she met and married a navy pilot Edward Glaze. The couple had two daughters, Linda and Elizabeth.
   After WW II she joined the Army Reserve in Indianapolis so she has received an Honorable Discharge from both the Navy and Army. While in Indianapolis, Elizabeth taught speech and drama at two private girls' schools.
   In 1958, Elizabeth married Robert Beach and the family moved to Grand Island. Shortly after moving to the Island, Elizabeth and a small group of friends founded the Island Theater Group. Elizabeth had been active in community theater for decades, both as an actress and as a director. She had her last leading role at age 80 in Over The Tavern produced by the Niagara Regional Theatre Guild with performances in the Riviera Theater in North Tonawanda, New York. After sons Robert, Jr. and Victor started school, Elizabeth worked for a number of years as an executive with the Girl Scout Council of Western New York.
   In 1972 Elizabeth and her husband started Beach’s Motorcycle Adventures. For the next 26 years, Robert and Elizabeth personally conducted 86 motorcycle tours of the European Alps. Robert concentrated on the motorcycles and the routes, while Elizabeth focused on the cultural and aesthetic aspects of the region. They had their “farewell tour” in 2002.
   For many years Elizabeth has been an active member of St. Stephen's R. C. Church on Grand Island. She directed many holiday pageants, instructed altar boys and girls on their duties, and frequently read at Mass. She was the founder of St. Stephen's Parish Players and directed many of their theatrical performances.
   Elizabeth is survived by her husband, Robert; her children Linda Richardson of Melfa, Virginia; Elizabeth Glaze of San Francisco, California; Robert Beach, Jr. of Grand Island; Victor Beach of Sunderland, Massachusetts; a sister Alma Mocas of Indianapolis, Indiana and four grandchildren.
   Elizabeth's husband, Robert, has said, "I can think of no other woman I have known who has done so much to bring joy and happiness to so many people. We are all better people for having been touched by her goodness."
   A Memorial Service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, October 29, 2005 at St. Stephen's RC Church on Grand Island.

Louise C. Boyle, October 1, 2005, of Grand Island, NY, beloved wife of the late Thomas Boyle; mother of Thomas (Ann) Boyle; grandmother of Shawn (Joelle), Scott and Brian (Tami) Boyle; great-grandmother of Kaylee; sister of Colleen Kelso. Friends are invited to attend a Memorial Mass in St. Stephens RC Church, Grand Island Tuesday morning, October 11, 2005 at 10 a.m..

Jane Moore Tolsma, 77, a retired teacher, died unexpectedly Sept. 14, 2005 in Baylor Medical Center, Dallas. Born Jane Moore in Buffalo, she grew up in Kenmore and also lived in the Town of Tonawanda. She graduated from Buffalo State Teachers College and taught elementary school in Kenmore and Grand Island. Her husband, Robert George Tolsma, died in 1995. Survivors include a daughter, Wendy Hawes of Frisco, Texas; a son, Gary R. of Raleigh, N.C., a brother, Richard Moore of Louisville, Ky.; and two grandchildren. Graveside services will be held at 11:30 a.m. Oct. 15, 2005 in Forest Lawn.

Anna May (Hokamp) Wagner, 71, of Grand Island, a retired sales clerk, died Saturday in Buffalo General Hospital, five days after suffering a heart attack. Born in Buffalo, the former Anna May Hokamp traced her ancestry to the settlers of Martha's Vineyard, Mass. She graduated from Fosdick-Masten High School in 1952 and became a secretary at Linde Air Products in the Town of Tonawanda. After raising her children, she was in sales at the Adam Meldrum & Anderson department store - later Bon-Ton - in Summit Park Mall before retiring in 1996. Mrs. Wagner enjoyed bowling, reading, needlework and travel.
   She was the wife of M. Wayne Wagner; mother of Michael J. (Jeanine) of the Town of Tonawanda, Kimberly A. (Michael) McDonnell of Cumming, Ga., Jeffrey J. (Cathy) of Baltimore and Daniel S. (Ann) Wagner of Roswell, Ga.; also survived by 12 grandchildren; sister of John (June) Hokamp of Biloxi, Miss.; stepsister of Wilma (Dick) Beyer of Akron, Jackie (Jack) Harten of Bluffton, S.C. and RuthAnn (Gene) Berger of Cheektowaga; daughter of the late John and Gladys Hokamp. Friends may call Tuesday 7-9 PM and Wednesday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday, October 6, 2005 at 10 a.m. at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island. Inurnment will be in St. Stephen's Columbarium. Memorials to Hospice Buffalo or The Autism Society of America WNY Chapter.

 Mary Sorce, 91, of Grand Island, NY, on September 27, 2005 at her residence. Born on June 10, 1914, she was the daughter of the late Thomas and Martha (Karaskuite) Yadacus. Wife of the late Michael W. Sorce; mother of Charles 'Chuck' J. (Linda L.) Sorce of Town of Tonawanda, NY, Grace M. (John) McCoulf of Grand Island, NY and the late Michael Sorce; mother-in-law of Kathleen P. Carroll of Town of Tonawanda, NY; grandmother of Meredith Sorce of Buffalo, NY, Charles and Andrew Sorce of Rochester, NY, Michael McCoulf of Grand Island, NY, Kelly McCoulf of Cambridge, MA and Katie McCoulf of Buffalo, NY; sister of the late Joseph (Lettie of Dover, DE) Yadacus, and the late Charles (Hettie of Lewiston, NY) Yadacus. Friends may call Saturday 12-2 PM at the OTTO REDANZ FUNERAL HOME, 2215 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY, where a funeral service will be held on Saturday October 1 at 2:00 PM. Burial will be at the convenience of the family.

 Ernest M. Jannotte, 92, a longtime Dunlop Tire & Rubber Co. employee, died Saturday, September 24, 2005 in Fairchild Manor Nursing Home, Lewiston, after a long illness. Born in Rouses Point, he was a longtime Grand Island resident, moving there in 1933. Mr. Jannotte worked as a tire builder and in the stockroom at Dunlop for 35 years, retiring in 1985. He was a member of the Echo Club and Echo Singing Society, Grand Island Loyal Order of Moose, Our Lady of the Rosary Seniors, the Dunlop Retirement Club and the United Steelworkers. He volunteered many years for Portage Post, American Legion, which honored him for his dedication in 1993. Mr. Jannotte also was a volunteer for many years at Veterans Affairs Medical Center. He enjoyed reading, fishing and pinochle. Survivors include his wife of 46 years, the former Mary Fital; a stepson, Ronald Koban of Niagara Falls; two granddaughters; and four great-grandchildren. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 10 a.m. Tuesday in Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church, 339 22nd St., Niagara Falls. Prayers will be said at 9:45 in Labuda Funeral Home, 356 Portage Road, Niagara Falls. Burial will be in St. Stephen's Cemetery, Grand Island.

Rosie Lee Brooks, 79, of Grand Island, a retired hospital administrator, died Wednesday in Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital, Amherst, after a short illness. Born Rosie Moody in Meridian, Miss., Mrs. Brooks grew up in Mississippi and moved to Tennessee in 1944. She moved to New York City in 1946, then to Buffalo in 1965. She lived here until 1975, when she moved to Tuskegee, Ala. She has lived on Grand Island for the past year. Mrs. Brooks worked as a sales manager for a local firm before her move to Alabama, where she worked as a hospital administrator for 17 years until her retirement in 1990. Survivors include her husband of 54 years, Marvellas; a daughter, Patricia Allen of Buffalo; two sons, Marvellas Jr. of Petersburg, Va., and Glenn of Grand Island; a sister, Elizabeth Moody of New York City; a brother, William Moody of Buffalo; three grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren. Graveside services and burial will be held at 10 a.m. today in Sunrise Chapel Mausoleum in Elmlawn Cemetery, Town of Tonawanda.

Carol G. Hastrich, a professional artist and longtime Grand Island resident, died Friday in Marliere Care Center, a hospice, in New Port Richey, Florida, after a long illness. She was 73. Born Carol G. Strachan in Buffalo, she moved to Grand Island in the early 1960s and moved to Hudson, Florida, about 20 years ago. After earning her high school general education diploma, she obtained a bachelor's degree in art in 1970 from Buffalo State College. She also attended Niagara County Community College. A professional artist, Mrs. Hastrich painted murals in churches in Western New York and Florida, including St. Teresa Catholic Church in Spring Hill, Florida. Her work - including portraits and abstracts - were exhibited widely. She also taught art at public schools in the Buffalo area and Florida. As a Grand island resident, she was active in amateur theater and also made costumes for the Ice Capades during appearances by the troupe in Buffalo. An auxiliary member of the American Legion, she was a Eucharistic minister at St. Teresa Church in Spring Hill. Survivors include two sons, Duane E. of New Port Richey and Richard J. of Spring Hill, Tenn.; a daughter, Dea M. Albertson of La Porte, Texas; two sisters, Joan Woelfel of Irving and Joyce Strachan of Lancaster; a brother, John A. Strachan of Richmond, Calif.; three grandchildren; and a great-grandchild. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 12:30 p.m. today (9/19/05) in St. Teresa Church, Spring Hill. Burial will be in Grace Memorial Gardens Cemetery, Hudson.

Frank Slish, of Grand Island, a retired Union Carbide employee, died Sept. 8 in Riverwood Healthcare facility after a brief illness. He was 81. Born in Endicott, he grew up in Niagara Falls. He joined the U.S. Army and served in Okinawa, Japan, during World War II. He was honorably discharged in 1946. He then worked for the Union Carbide Metals Division for 32 years, retiring in 1982. Mr. Slish enjoyed motorcycling, gardening, hiking and visiting elder hostels with his wife, Melva. He was also known as the "butterfly man" because of his interest in butterflies, which he raised and lectured about. He was a docent for the Buffalo Museum of Science, field guide for Tifft Nature Preserve, and a member of Cornell Cooperative Extension. He also enjoyed winemaking, photography and chess. Mr. Slish was a member of the Grand Island Golden Agers, where he helped prepare taxes for senior citizens. He was also a member of St. Stephen's Catholic Church, where he taught Catholic education classes and was a Eucharistic minister. He is survived by his wife, the former Melva Davis; two daughters, Jeri Marshall of Niagara Falls and Teresa Nolte of Pampa, Texas; six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. A memorial Mass will be offered at 10 a.m. Saturday, October 15, 2005 in St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island.

Sylvia I. Conklin, grandmother to 32, died Sunday, September 11, 2005 in Our Lady of Peace Nursing Care Residence. She was 92. Born Sylvia Gaines in Clearfield, Pennsylvania, she married Walter Conklin and moved to Buffalo in 1941. They settled in Niagara Falls in 1942 and eventually lived on Grand Island. Her husband died in 1974. She was also predeceased by her dear companion of 25 years, William Simcox. Mrs. Conklin was a member of American Legion Post 1142. She enjoyed crocheting, gardening, dancing and fishing. Surviving are a son, Russell W. of Niagara Falls; a daughter, Sandy Evans of Titusville, Flaorida; a sister, Miriam Schaffner of Clearfield; a brother, Oscar Gaines of Lancaster; six grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren; and seven great-great-grandchildren. Services were held at 11 a.m. Thursday, September 15, 2005 in the Otto Redanz Funeral Home, 2215 Military Road, Town of Niagara. Burial will be in Acacia Park Cemetery, Pendleton.

 Ruby Jane Allaire, 73, Friday, September 9, 2005, of Grand Island, NY in her Grand Island home after a long illness; beloved wife of 51 years of Charles Allaire of Chehalis, Wash.; mother of John Allaire of Lafayette, La.; Michelle (John) Facklam of Tulsa, Okla.; Scott (Kelly) Allaire of the Town of Tonawanda; Yolanda (Jon) Hasselbeck of Grand Island; Charles (Jane) Allaire of Chehalis, Wash.; Mary (Boyd) Gifford of Fredonia; and Ruby Allaire-Graham of Cheektowaga; also survived by 21 grandchildren; sister of Susan Welsh of New Holland, Pa. and the late Paul Leisy. Friends may call Monday and Tuesday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday at 10:15 AM at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island. Burial will be in St. Stephen Cemetery. A native of New Holland, Pa., the former Ruby Jane Leisey attended Millersville State Teachers College in Pennsylvania and taught Mennonite children in a one-room schoolhouse there. She moved to Grand Island after her marriage in 1954. Mrs. Allaire worked for 15 years as a home health aide for Kaleida Health Services before her retirement in 2004. She was a member of St. Stephen Catholic Church on Grand Island and played a significant role in the formation and leadership of its Marriage Encounter program. She enjoyed traveling, gardening, line dancing and exercising, but her favorite times were spent with family and friends.


Alfred A. “Al” Wasse, September 7, 2005 of Grand Island. Beloved son of Siegfried and Erna Wasse; dear brother of Valerie (Robert) Tan of Chapel Hill, NC; doting uncle of Harrison Tan; dear grandson of Peter and Erna Peters of St. Catherines, Ont.; also survived by numerous aunts, uncles and cousins in Canada and Germany. Memorial services will be held Saturday, October 8, 2005 at 2 PM at St. Timothy Lutheran Church, 1453 Staley Rd., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Doctors Without Borders.

 Leon W. Prusak of Grand Island, a retired tool and die maker, died unexpectedly Wednesday, September 7, 2005 in Greater Niagara General Hospital, Niagara Falls, Ont. He was 74. The Blasdell native was a graduate of Blasdell High School where he was senior class president and played football, basketball and baseball. He also attended the University of Buffalo and was a retired member of the Blasdell Fire Department. He served with the Marines from 1952 to 1954 in ordnance and demolition in the Korean War. He was a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9249 on Grand Island. Mr. Prusak had a 40-year career as a tool and die maker, working first at Ford Motor Co. and then for General Motors Harrison Division. He won several GM Innovation Awards. He retired in 1992. Mr. Prusak also played semi-pro football and for more than 20 years was an official for high school and college football teams. He was an avid bowler and golfer, read history books and enjoyed gardening and family camping trips. Mr. Prusak also was a volunteer for Meals on Wheels and Catholic Charities and activities at his church, St. Stephen's. Survivors include his wife of 48 years, the former Nancy Berryman; a daughter, Teresa (Brian) Drainville of Orchard Park; four sons, Gregory (Therese) of Miami Lakes, Florida; Leon Jr. (Paula) of Rye Brook, Alan (Stacey) of Winchester, Va., and Edward (Denise) Prusak of Hicksville; two brothers, Frank (Norma) of Hamburg and Edwin (Trudy) of Orlando and 11 grandchildren. He was predeceased by a brother, the late Raymond (survived by wife Florence) Prusak. Friends may call Saturday and Sunday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 10 a.m. Monday in St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Cradle Beach Camp.

 Francis J. "Bud" Redding Sr. of Grand Island, 74, September 7, 2005 in Roswell Park Cancer Institute of complications following surgery. Husband of 54 years of Carmel (Luciano) Redding; father of Mary Martin of Niagara Falls, Francis J. "Bud" (Susan) Redding Jr. of Kenmore, Kim (Kevin) Zandi of Lockport and Amy (Chad) Pyc of Grand Island; also survived by nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; brother of Helen Sue (Robert) Leggett of Melbourne Beach, Florida and the late William and Thomas Redding; son of the late Thomas and Mary Redding. Friends may call Friday only 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday at 10 a.m. at St. Stephen's Church. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Kenmore Mercy Foundation.
   Mr. Redding was a career Naval Medical Service Corps officer and a retired administrator at Kenmore Mercy Hospital in the Town of Tonawanda. Mr. Redding, who was known as Bud, was born in Niagara Falls. He enlisted in the Navy in 1949 following graduation from St. Mary's High School and served in the Korean War. After he was commissioned an ensign in the Medical Service Corps, he served at Navy hospitals in Philadelphia and San Diego and on the faculty of the Naval School of Hospital Administration at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md. He also served for three years on the staff of the commanding general of the Fleet Marine Force in the Pacific. Retiring from the Navy as a lieutenant commander in 1970, he served for 26 years on the staff of Kenmore Mercy Hospital, where he retired in 1996 as chief operating officer and executive vice president. He earned a bachelor of arts degree and a master's of business administration degree in health care administration from George Washington University and a certificate in hospital administration from the Naval School of Hospital Administration. He also was a licensed nursing home administrator. Mr. Redding received the Navy Surgeon General's Award for Scholastic Achievement, the Western Hospital Association's Glenn Ebersole Award and numerous military honors. He was a member of the Military Officers Association of America, the Naval Institute, the Navy League and the American Legion. He also was a life fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives and published articles in hospital journals. Active in the Kenmore Rotary Club since 1970, he served on the board of directors of the Kenmore Rotary Foundation and earlier this year was named a Rotary International Paul Harris Fellow. In retirement, he enjoyed researching his genealogy.

 Thomas M. Stocklosa, September 2, 2005, of Grand Island, loving companion of Clarene M. Bidell; father of Thomas and Eileen Stocklosa; brother of Olga Adinolfi, Adel Skowronski and Joseph (Arlene) Stocklosa; also survived by many nieces, nephews and friends; son of the late Thomas and Charlotte Stocklosa. Friends may call Tuesday only 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, where Funeral Services will be held Wednesday at 10 AM.

 Cornelia (Corry) L. Van Son Webb passed away in Olcott, New York, Friday, September 2, 2005 at the home of her son, H. Ronald Webb. Corry was born on Grand Island, New York, November 6, 1921.
  Cornelia (Corry) Van Son Webb - Memorial Service will be held Saturday, September 17, 2005 at 10 a.m. in the Hess Road Wesleyan Church, 2514 Hess Road, Appleton, New York 14008 (716-778-5343). Luncheon will follow. Interment in Elmlawn Cemetery, 3939 Delaware Avenue, Kenmore, NY (Chapel Lawn - Lot 37, Grave 1)
   She was the daughter of Theodore and Ada Priscilla Dinsmore Van Son and granddaughter of George H. and Ada Priscilla Stoddard Dinsmore of Grand Island, New York, and John and Henrietta Van Son of Holland. Wife of the late Chester H. Webb. Mother of H. Ronald (Nancy) of Olcott, New York, Robert (Maureen) of Burt, New York, Richard of California, Priscilla (Hartwig) of Geneseo New York and Michael (Debi) of Arizona. Survived by 13 grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren. Pre-deceased by sisters Ada (Norman) Brauer, Alida (Smith) Aldrich, and brothers Theodore "Mike" and William (Helene) Van Son. Survived by many nieces and nephews. Memorials may be made to:
Niagara Hospice
4675 Sunset Drive
Lockport, New York 14094
or
Hess Road Wesleyan Church
2514 Hess Road
Appleton, New York 14008

 Matthew Ryan Quarcini, 22, went home to be with the Lord on August 17, 2005, after a long and courageous battle with leukemia. Loving son of Enrico and Mary Ann (Lum) Quarcini of Canton, Ohio; loving father of son, Jordan Matthew Quarcini and Jordan's mother, Rae Ann Williams of Canton, Ohio; loving brother of Stephen P. Quarcini and Jennifer (Black) of Niagara Falls, NY and Michael D. Quarcini and fiancee', Stephanie Russell of Canton, Ohio; loving grandson of Robert Leposa of Niagara Falls, NY; loving uncle to Onalee Jade Quarcini of Niagara Falls, NY; also survived by several loving aunts, uncles and cousins from Western New York and around the country and close friend, Shannon Medley. He was preceded in death by grandparents, Arlene Leposa and Joseph Quarcini and Ernest and Ann (Simpson) Lum all of Niagara Falls, NY. Matthew moved to Canton, OH in 1998, attended and graduated from Jackson High School in 2002; and worked as an environmental engineer for Grace Consulting. He was active in sports and the Jacks N Jills elite choir. He loved to work on cars and ride his motorcycle with friends. He was a proud Daddy to his son, Jordan, who will miss him greatly. Matthew was a member of First Baptist Church of Louisville. He found great comfort and support in his faith and church. Pastor Kenneth Pugh was a great mentor for Matthew and officiated the funeral services held 10:30 a.m. Saturday, August 20, 2005 in the Karlo & Sons Funeral Home, 5000 Everhard Rd. NW, Canton. In lieu of flowers, the family requests monetary donations to the Jordan Quarcini Benefit Fund, care of HSBC Bank, 2300 Grand Island Blvd., Grand Island, NY 14072.


1966 GIHS Yearbook Photo
Ellen Fancher, longtime resident of Grand Island, passed away August 27, 2005 after a long illness in Henrietta, NY. She was 84. Ellen was the widow of Jack E. Fancher who died in February 1996. She will be best remembered as a teacher in the Grand Island school district. Ellen is survived by a daughter, Sandra, of Henrietta, and sons, Richard of Columbia, MO, and Jack of Rock Hall, MD. She is also survived by brothers, Joseph Wormsley of Johnson City, NY, and Samuel Wormsley of Bremerton, WA. Donations in Mrs. Fancher's memory may be made to the American Lung Association, 1595 Elmwood Ave., Rochester, NY 14620.

 Paul S. Jarzab, 38, unexpectedly in Mount St. mary’s Hospital, Lewiston, August 26, 2005. of Grand Island. Beloved son of Frederick S. and Barbara (Pendergast) Jarzab of Grand Island; twin brother of David (Sally) Jarzab of Buffalo; uncle of Henry and Stuart; grandson of Sigmund and Frances (Pendergast) Ciszek of Sanborn and the late Stanley and Julia Jarzab; nephew of George Pendergast and Irene Garvey. Friends may call Monday only 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10 a.m. Tuesday, August 30, 2005 at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity of your choice. Interment will be in St. Stephen Cemetery, Grand Island. It was Paul's wish that he be an organ donor in the event of his death. Born in Niagara Falls, Paul attended city schools and graduated from Grand Island High School in 1985. He then earned a bachelor's degree in graphic design and fine arts from Buffalo State College. Paul moved to Hoboken, N.J., in 1994 and worked in the area for 11 years as a graphic designer. He enjoyed visiting New York City's various art galleries, shows and cultural events and often in-line skated in Central Park. Paul moved back to Grand Island in January and enjoyed bicycling around the island and to Isle View Park, where he listened to summer concerts and sat near the Niagara River.


Agnes J. Denler, a pilot and former manager of Denler Sheet Metal, died on Saturday, August 20, 2005 in Hospice Care Center of Boulder & Broomfield Counties, Boulder, Colo., after a long illness. She was 79. Born Agnes Jean Baker in Buffalo, she was a graduate of Mount St. Mary Academy, Town of Tonawanda, and lived on Grand Island for 55 years. Mrs. Denler co-managed the family business, Denler Sheet Metal. She also was a pilot who taught ground school, and she taught Red Cross first-aid and swimming. Mrs. Denler belonged to the Ninety-Nines, the International Organization of Women Pilots and St. Stephen's Catholic Church, Grand Island. Her husband, Alan L., died in 1986. "Agnes lived an extremely full life and will be missed by her many friends and family," a family spokesman said. Survivors include a son, Jeffery A. (Maureen) Denler of Bradenton, Florida; a daughter, Caryl D. (Ron) Kershner of Boulder, Colorado; six grandchildren; and three greatgrandchildren. A memorial Mass will be offered at 10 a.m. Saturday, September 17, 2005 in St. Stephen's Church (Old Church), 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island. Services will conclude with a brunch in the new church hall. Contributions in Mrs. Denler's memory may be made to the HospiceCare Center of Boulder & Broomfield Counties, 2594 Trailridge Drive East, Suite A, Lafayette CO 80026.

 Leslie E. LeBlanc, August 15, 2005, of Grand Island; Husband of the late Jennifer J (Habicht); father of Robert, Robin Marie, Kevin, Eric and Mary LeBlanc; also survived by three step-grandchildren; brother of Millie Babineau. Graveside service will be held Wednesday, August 24, 2005 at 10 a.m. Arrangements by Kaiser Funeral Home. Mr. LeBlanc, suffering from a lengthy illness, had been staying with family members in Massachusetts at the time of his death. He was a Life member of Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial VFW Post 9249, and was a Retired LtC US Army and NY National Guard.


 Lawrence T Rathmann, 69, peacefully passed in his home on August 20, 2005 after a courageous battle with cancer. Survived by his wife Barbara (James) Rathmann of 48 years. An avid Bills fan, he was born in Buffalo, NY and lived many years on Grand Island before moving to Orlando, FL. He is also survived by his children: Larry (Jenny), Mark (Michele), Laureen (John) Brennan, Michele (Ernie) Mieras; and grandchildren: Luigi, Jacquie, Cory, David, Amanda, Joshua, Haley, Jack and Maddie. His sister Jean (Dick "Sparky") Adams of Tonawanda was also there when he passed. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews and trusted friends. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in his name to the Moffit Cancer Institute in Tampa, FL or the American Cancer Society.


 Betty (Roach) Hollinger, 81, August 17, 2005, of Grand Island. Wife of the late Franklin J. Hollinger; mother of Gail (Gary) Conschafter and Jay (Nancy) Hollinger of Grand Island; grandmother of Shawn Conschafter and Lynn Conschafter, Ashley Hollinger and Jason Hollinger; also survived by two sisters and one step sister; predeceased by one brother. Betty was born and raised in Niagara Falls, moving to the Island to start a family with her husband, Frank. She was a member of the VFW Post 9249 Ladies Auxiliary, and a Lady of the Grand Island Moose Club. She also served as a poll inspector on election Day at local schools. Betty enjoyed spending time with her family, golfing, traveling the world with her sisters, playing euchre with her friends, knitting and sewing. She loved attending her grandchildren's dance recitals, hockey games, bike races and choral concerts. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Grand Island VFW Post 9249 Ladies Auxiliary or Island Presbyterian Church, 1822 Huth Rd., Grand Island where memorial services will be held Monday at 7 PM.

Jack E. McCumber of Grand Island, a retired pipefitter, died Saturday in the Center for Hospice & Palliative Care, Cheektowaga, after a brief illness. He was 85. Born in Verona, Ont., he came with his family to the United States in 1927. The family lived in Rochester and Cheektowaga before moving to Niagara Falls. He graduated from Niagara Falls High School in 1938. He enlisted in the Army National Guard in 1940 and served until the following year. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, he joined the Navy. He was stationed at Navy hospitals in Rhode Island, Virginia, Florida and California. Mr. McCumber worked as a pipefitter at Hooker Chemical Co. for 32 years, retiring in 1982. He enjoyed gardening, camping, deer hunting and spending time with his children and grandchildren. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, the former Anna Reddick; two sons, Michael of Chelmsford, Mass., and Kevin of Elk Grove, Calif.; a daughter, Laura of Grand Island; and seven grandchildren. A memorial service, with military honors, will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday in Riverdale Cemetery, Lewiston.

Treva Chism , August 1, 2005, of Grand Island, wife of Larry Chism; mother of Michael, Lora (Andrew) Allen and Jeff Chism; grandmother of Jackie, Emily, Ellie, Andrew, Anna, Lauren, Michael Ross and Payton; sister of David and Dick Schick and Gerine Easter; daughter of the late Anna Elizabeth and Robert Schick. Memorial Services will be held Monday, August 8 at 7 PM at Whitehaven Road Baptist Church, Grand Island. Reception to follow. Interment will be in Charleston, IL. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to the American Red Cross..

Arthur T. Gilbert, July 30, 2005, of Grand Island, formerly of Tonawanda; father of Patrick and Alexis Gilbert; loving companion of Michelle Guizzotti; son of Arthur A. and Marilyn Gilbert; brother of Michael (Sue), Donald (Kyomi), James Gilbert and Brenda (Robert) Wilson; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Wednesday only 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd. Grand Island. Funeral services private. Flowers gratefully declined.

Leona L. (Grabowski) Chapin, July 26, 2005, of Grand Island; beloved wife of Kenneth; dear mother of Brian (Barbara) and Darryl (Jennifer); fond grandmother of Krystal, Kaitlyn and Conner; sister of Christine Masters and Geraldine (Daniel) O'Brien; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Family and friends may call Thursday, July 28, 2005 from 7-9 p.m., Friday, 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. at the ORLOWSKI AMHERST FUNERAL HOME, 447 Amherst St. ( 875-0662) and attend a Mass of Christian Burial Saturday, July 30, 2005 at 9:30 a.m. at Assumption Church (Please assemble at Church).

Annette J. Wilkin, of Clyde, NY, formerly of Grand Island, died Sunday, July 24, 2005 at age 67; beloved wife of Robert; mother of Maureen (Jeffrey) Gray, Mary (James) Morgan, James (Perri), Charles (Mart), Daniel (Tamela), 11 grandchildren, brothers Edward (Nancy) Group, John (Serena) Group and sister-in-law Carol Group. A Memorial Mass will be Friday, July 29, 2005 at 11 a.m. at Church of the Epiphany, 105 West Main Street, Sodus, NY, where a reception will be held immediately following. Private interment. Ref: NORTON FUNERAL HOME, Sodus NY.

 Cyrena J. (Ehlers) Dixon, 89, July 20, 2005, of Grand Island. Wife of 46 years of the late Clarence R. Dixon; mother of Claire (Jack) Dixon-Lee of Palatine, IL; grandmother of Michele Billbury and great-grandmother of Karlee Billbury of Palatine, IL; daughter of the late Frederick and Dorothy Ehlers of Grand Island. Funeral services will be held Saturday, July 30, 2005 at 11 a.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church, Grand Island. Memorials may be made to the Grand Island Historical Society, PO Box 135, Grand Island, 14072. Cyrena was born in the family home on Grand Island and lived most of her life on the Island. She was a member of Trinity Church since she was a little girl, attending with her parents. She continued to be active in the early days as church organist, later volunteering in the church office, and with the United Methodist Women, for which she received special mission recognition in 1997. Cyrena was a Girl Scout leader for Troop 958, a member of the Order of the Amaranth for which she was their musical accompanist for many years, and a member of the Grand Island Historical Society, where she was often asked to share stories of Grand Island history with grade school children touring the Island sites. She was a Tonawanda High School graduate and worked as an executive secretary for Remington Rand Corp. in Buffalo, and later for Alt Chevrolet on Whitehaven Road, Grand Island.

Peter K. Courey, July 25, 2005, of Grand Island, NY; son of Dr. Norman G. and Janette Courey of Grand Island; brother of Dr. Albert J. (Jody Reichel) Courey of Culver City, California, Jeananne (Timothy) Courey Brown of Carson City, Nevada and Dr. Mark S. (Susan) Courey of San Francisco; stepfather of Richard; also survived by seven nieces and nephews. Friends may call Tuesday 7-9 PM and Wednesday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at The KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral services will be held Thursday, July 28, 2005 at 11 a.m. at Whitehaven Road Baptist Church, 1290 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to the American Diabetes Association or the American Heart Association. Peter K. Courey, a real estate development company manager, died Monday, July 25, 2005 in Kenmore Mercy Hospital after a brief illness. He was 49. The Buffalo native was a 1974 graduate of Grand Island High School. He attended Canisius College for two years and graduated from St. Louis University in Missouri. Mr. Courey worked in marketing and regional management for convenience stores in the southeastern United States before returning to Grand Island in 2002. Since then, he worked as manager of CT Enterprises, a Grand Island real estate and townhouse development firm. Mr. Courey was part of the board of directors of Fairview Green of River Oaks. He obtained a Realtor's license and was a promoter of Grand Island. He was an active member of the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce and Supreme Lodge No. 180 Loyal Order of Moose.

 Anna Bieniulis, president of the Grand Island Branch of the American Red Cross, died of heart failure Saturday, July 23, 2005 in her home on Grand Island. She was 80. Born Anna Kryzan in Poznan, Poland, she went to high school in Algiers before moving to Belgium. While there, she worked as a translator and spoke French, Polish and English fluently. She also met and married Zygmunt A. Bieniulis, a fellow countryman who was attending engineering school in Belgium. In 1950, the couple moved to Buffalo, and Mrs. Bieniulis earned an associate's degree from Empire State College. For about 10 years during the 1980s, Mrs. Bieniulis was the activities director at Senior Meadows, a retirement home in Hamburg. In 1990, she began working as secretary at American Dream Realty and Laurendi Home Selling Team on Grand Island until retiring in 2003. She was president of the Grand Island Branch of the Red Cross for many years and was known in particular for her work during the organization's blood drive campaigns. She was also heavily involved in other volunteer projects, including working with the Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts and St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Athol Springs. Mrs. Bieniulis was a member of a writing club on Grand Island and enjoyed taking classes in various subjects, including Spanish. She also enjoyed gardening and nature. In addition to her husband of 54 years, survivors include two sons, Mark and Conrad, both of Denver; a daughter, Maria Laurendi of Grand Island; 10 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. A memorial Mass was offered Monday in St. Stephen Catholic Church, Grand Island.

Francis C. Volante, of Grand Island, NY, on July 22, 2005. Born on August 1, 1919, he was the son of the late Thomas O. and Flora (Kronvall) Volante; beloved husband of 55 years of Suzanne F. (Huquenin-Benjamin) Volante of Grand Island, NY; father of Francis Bruce Volante of Grand Island, NY, and Gary Alan Volante of Niagara Falls, NY; brother of Elaine (John) Bentley of Lewiston, NY, and the late Lillian (late Laurence) Sullivan. Friends may call Monday 7-9 PM and Tuesday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the OTTO REDANZ FUNERAL HOME, 2215 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY. Funeral Wednesday July 27 at 10:00 AM at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1004 Michigan Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY 14305. Entombment at Rosewood Mausoleum, Forest Lawn Cemetery, Buffalo, NY. Memorial offerings to Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church. Francis, a World War II veteran and retired maintenance supervisor for three paper companies, died Friday in his Grand Island home after a long illness. He was 85. Mr. Volante was born in Niagara Falls and graduated from Niagara Falls High School in 1937. He lived in Niagara Falls until moving to Grand Island in 1971. He served in the Army from January 1942 through September 1945 as a private first class, seeing service in the Pacific Theater. Mr. Volante started working at the Kimberly-Clark Corp. plant in Niagara Falls in 1938 and returned to his maintenance job there after the war. He continued until the plant closed in 1971. He was transferred temporarily to another plant but returned when Nitec Paper Corp. reopened the Niagara Falls facility. He worked a few years for that company and its successor, Cellu Products. Mr. Volante was a member of Kimberly-Clark's Quarter-Century Club and Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church. He enjoyed working on home improvement projects, boating and fishing.

Anne M. (Gruenthaner) Gonda, July 21, 2005. Beloved wife of John J.; dear mother of Patricia (Gregory) Ruckinger; grandmother of Melissa and Ashley Ruckinger; sister of Teal (Herb) Wechter, Mike (late Connie) Gruenthaner and seven pre-deceased siblings; survived by nieces and nephews. Friends are invited to attend a Memorial Mass on Friday, July 29 at 10 AM in St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. Anne was a member of St. Stephen's Altar Society and the Golden Age Center, GI. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Hospice Buffalo Inc. Arrangements by JAMES E. GRACE FUNERAL HOME INC.

 Angela S. (Wichlacz) Gramza, July 18, 2005, of Grand Island, NY, beloved wife of the late Daniel M. Gramza; dearest sister of the late Laura T. (the late Ralph) Amann, Raymond, Conrad and Sigmund Wichlacz; daughter of the late Joseph and Sophia Wichlacz; also survived by several nieces and nephews; dear friend of Charles and Robin Aronica, Ronald and Carol Kraft, Mark and Heidi Sorel. Friends may call Tuesday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 White Haven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday at 9:30 AM at St. Stephen's Church.

 Anneliese (Winkler) Irizarry, July 12, 2005, of Grand Island, wife of the late Robert D. Irizarry; mother of Karin (the late George) Ayers of Ransomville and Ramona (Wayne) DeWitt of Grand Island; grandmother of Paul (Karen) Miller, Denise Miller, Melanie (Michael) Lewandowski and Christopher DeWitt; great-grandmother of Kristen and Alex Miller; predeceased by four sisters and one brother. Friends may call Wednesday 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to Hospice Buffalo.

 Joseph N. Moses, of Las Vegas, Nevada, formerly of Grand Island, passed away on Saturday, June 11, 2005. He was the beloved husband of Kathleen (Hamilton) Moses for 45 years, devoted father of Todd Moses of Dublin, Ohio and Tracy Moses Ackerman of Las Vegas and loving grandfather of Jack and Harrison Moses, and Dillon and Brandon Ackerman. Brother of Juliet Budi of Mesa, Arizona, Yvonne (Chester) Ostrowski of Cheektowaga, Shirley (Robert) Margeson of Cheektowaga, Peter (Eleanore) Moses of Wheatfield, Richard (Celine) Moses of West Seneca, Robert (Beverly) Moses of the Town of Tonawanda, and the late Louise Joseph, Bernadette Palinski, Paul Moses, and Maryann (George) Schroth. Joseph is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. Friends are invited to attend a memorial service at 9:30 a.m. Thursday, July 21, 2005 at St. John the Baptist Church, 1085 Englewood Avenue, Town of Tonawanda. Burial was in Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Boulder City, Nevada. Mr. Moses was born in Buffalo and graduated from Kenmore West High School. He worked as a meat cutter in his father's business before serving for two years in the Army. He later worked as a salesman at Lou Awald Chevrolet in Kenmore and as a sales manager for Glen Campbell Chevrolet. In 1981, he began work as a financial adviser with the Buffalo office of Prudential Securities. He retired from the company in 1992 after moving to Las Vegas.

Leonard F. Walentynowicz, a Buffalo native who became one of the highest ranking Polonia leaders in federal government service as Assistant Secretary of State (Administrator of the Bureau of Security and Consular Affairs), died suddenly in his Grand Island home on July 7, 2005. He was 72.
   A graduate of Technical High School and the 1955 Class of the University of Buffalo Law School, Walentynowicz initially maintained offices on Peckham Street and Fillmore Avenue. He later became Chief of the Appeals Section of the Erie County District Attorney’s office, and served as a special prosecutor for the Bar Association of Erie County. For many years, he was associated in private practice with former Lackawanna City Judge Norman Walawender in downtown Buffalo offices.
   Named a director of the revitalized UB Law Alumni Association in 1962, Walentynowicz continued to serve his school as one of the first six instructors in a newly-introduced course in Trial Techniques.
    Originally named by President Nixon to the sensitive State Department post, his Senate confirmation was temporarily delayed for political reasons by the late Senator Jacob Javits. Renominated by President Ford, he served as head of security for all American consulates worldwide from December 31, 1974 until succeeded by President Carter’s nominee on March 7, 1977.
   A no-nonsense State Department administrator, Walentynowicz proved early in his federal career that he was more than “that token ethnic with the unpronounceable 13-letter name.”
   Continuing his stay in the nation’s capital, Walentynowicz expanded the role of Executive Director of the Washington office of the Polish American Congress. He strengthened ties with Jewish and other ethnic groups, and filed briefs with courts on behalf of the PAC, Polish-American and other ethnic groups. His legal efforts on behalf of “Ethnics for Equality” (Buffalo firefighters) seeking equality in face of “reverse discrimination” earned him national acclaim. Walentynowicz’s’s views on discrimination against Euro-ethnic groups in employment situations have been published by the U. S. Commission on Civil Rights, and his oral interviews have been archived.
   A member of many professional groups, he was most proud of heading the National Advocates Society, an organization of American judges and attorneys of Polish descent. In the last few years, Walentynowicz played the role of a portly lawyer in an amateur stage production of “Arsenic and Old Lace” presented by his parish.
   He is survived by his wife, the former Florence R. Dzialak, and siblings Edward (Virginia), Lorraine (late Maryan) and Carol (Raymond) Sierzchula. He was the brother-in-law of Theresa Bernard and uncle of many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.
   The family will receive friends at the C. MERTZ AND SON FUNERAL HOME, INC., 911 Englewood Ave., Saturday from 7-9 p.m. and Sunday from 2-6 p.m. A Roman Catholic Mass of Christian Burial was held Monday, July 11, 2005 at St. Stephen Church on Grand Island, NY. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The American Cancer Society.

Heide M. (Doermer) Stickl, 50, passed away on Sunday June 26, 2005 following a three-year battle with cancer. Born in Germany, she moved to Grand Island with her family when she was eight years old. Heide attended Island elementary school and was a graduated of Grand Island High School, Class of 1973. She also graduated from Peter Piccolo's School of Hair Design and worked as a hair stylist for many years. Heidi is survived by her husband, Peter Stickl whom she married in 1982 at which time they moved to Washington, D.C. She is also survived by two sons, Peter Stickl II, 18 and Adam Stickl, 16. She was the daughter of George and Hanna Doermer, sister of Art, Steve and Mark Doermer. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, counsins and friends. Funeral services were held Friday, July 1, 2005 in Falls Church, Virginia.

 A Mass of Christian Burial for Joseph F. Schottmiller, of Grand Island, a champion archer and retired machinist, will be offered at 10 a.m. Wednesday in St. Stephen Catholic Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island. Burial will be in St. Stephen's Cemetery on church grounds. Mr. Schottmiller, who was born in Buffalo, died Thursday, June 30, 2005 in Veterans Hospital after a long illness. He was 69. He was a graduate of McKinley High School and served as a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg in North Carolina. Mr. Schottmiller was a machinist for Niagara Machine & Tool Works in Buffalo for 43 years until his retirement in 1998. He was an avid archer and deer hunter. He was inducted into the New York State Field Archers and Bowhunters Hall of Fame in 2004. Mr. Schottmiller was the winner of numerous championship archery competitions and achievement awards in New York, the United States and Canada. He was a member of the Double T Archery Club in Amherst since 1960 and ran the club's youth and Junior Olympic programs. He belonged to Post 9249 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars on Grand Island and was a member of the 82nd Airborne Honor Guard. He was a member of Local 508 of the United Auto Workers Retirees and a life member of the National Field Archers Association. Survivors include his wife of 47 years, Eleanor (Keller) Keller; four daughters, Donna (Keith) Dodge and Diana (Steve) DeMarco, both of Grand Island, Brenda (Brian) Williams of Niagara Falls and Tina (Mark) Lovell of New Port Richie, Fla.; two sons, Joseph A. (Kathleen) of Lake Forest, Calif., and Harry (Debbie) Schottmiller of North Tonawanda; two sisters, Eleanor Mowers of Williamsville and Mary Uhle of Las Vegas, Nev.; 17 grandchildren and one great-grandson. Predeceased by his parents, Emil and Eleanor Schottmiller and brothers Francis, Robert and Emil Schottmiller Friends may call Tuesday only 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd, Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday at 10:00 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to the Double T Archery Club Youth Program, 1110 North French Rd, Amherst 14228.

Thomas DiChristina, July 2, 2005 of Grand Island, NY; husband of the late Rosalia DiChristina; father of Samuel (Michele), Richard (Elizabeth), Maria (Joseph) Bouchard and Robert (Darlene) DiChristina; grandfather of Gioia, Graham (Karen), Dawn and Emily. Funeral services private. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.

 Mary Louise (Ryan) Kline, June 26, 2005, of Grand Island, NY, beloved wife of Donald J. Kline; loving mother of Kathy (Michael) Hastings, Michael (Cindy) Kline, Linda (Michael) Meagher and Cindy (Gary) Hall; grandmother of Aurora and Mikaela Hastings, Cole Kline, Jessica and Madison Meagher; sister of Joan (Daniel) Burns. Funeral arrangements private. Memorials may be made to The Hospice Foundation. Arrangements by the STEPHAN-BURNS FUNERAL HOME, INC., 266 East St. at Austin.

Lance J. Kohn II, 40, June 26, 2005, of Hollywood, FL, formerly of Grand Island and The Town of Tonawanda, dear friend of Jill Bliven; son of Lance J. Sr. and the late Mary Susan (Martin) Kohn; brother of Kenneth (Dee) Kohn and Kristina Montague; loving uncle of Joshua, Allen, Susan, Deanna and Morgan; grandson of Mary Martin; also survived by many aunts, uncles and cousins. Friends may call Wednesday and 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 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to The Leukemia Society.

John "Max" Hopper, June 25, 2005 of Grand Island. Husband of the late Leona M. (Froebel) Hopper; father of Jay (Leanne) Hopper and Janel (Nate) Slotiuk; grandfather of Traci Lynn (Christopher) Rothwell, Ryan Hopper, Erin (Russell) Mesmer and Alexa Slotiuk; great-grandfather of Sean Maxwell Mesmer; brother of Dorothy (late Anthony) Macro. Friends may call Monday only 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral services will be held Tuesday at 2 PM at Trinity United Methodist Church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.

Louis J. Scozzaro, June 25, 2005 of Grand Island. Beloved husband of Marilyn (Collins) Scozzaro; devoted father of Bernard (Molly McMahon) Scozzaro, 2nd Lt. Brian (Sarah) Scozzaro and his faithful friend Blaise; brother of Eva (late Frank) Guevara, Dr. Philip (Marion) Scozzaro, Carmella Pattacciato, Mary Ann Scozzaro and the late Santina Scozzaro; son of the late Bernard and Josephine (Infinna) Scozzaro; brother-in-law of Bill (Sheila Jagodzinski) Collins; also survived by Felix Doherty, Daniel Doherty, Nancy (Doherty) Crawford and many loving nieces, nephews and friends. Friends may call Tuesday only 5-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo

Helen (Kuslik) Such, June 24, 2005, Age 85, of North Tonawanda, formerly of Grand Island; mother of Robert Such; also survived by Paco, and many nieces and nephews. Friends may call from 1-4 PM on Sunday only at the HAMP FUNERAL HOME, INC., Adam & Seymour Sts., Tonawanda. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 AM Monday at St. Joseph R.C. Church on Payne Ave., in North Tonawanda. Friends invited. Complete obituary, condolences and directions at www.hampfuneral.com

 Walter J. Cowan, June 17, 2005 of Grand Island, NY; beloved husband of Norma (Senn) Cowan and the late Ruth (Williams) Cowan; beloved father of Walter O. W. Cowan, Sharon (Richard) Pearson, Gale (Greg) Miner and Joyce Cowan; devoted grandfather of Ruth, Aaron (Rebecca) and Tamara Miner; brother-in-law of George Williams; son of the late William and Rosa Cowan; brother of the late Donald, William and James Cowan, Mary Durbin and Delores Fisher. Friends may call Monday only 2-4 and 7-9 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 Bible Fellowship Center, 1136 Baseline Rd., Grand Island or to the American Heart Association. Mr. Cowan was a member of VFW Post #9249 where a lunch will follow after the services on Tuesday.

 Jeffery R. Reszetucha, June 16, 2005, of Grand Island, June 16, 2005 of Grand Island. Son of Donna (Ellis) and Raymond Briggs; brother of Julia Garam; grandson of Virginia Briggs. Friends may call Monday only 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Tuesday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to the Boys and Girls Club of Tonawanda, 325 Franklin St., Tonawanda 14150. Jeffery was a member of the Grand Island High School Class of 1986.

 Sherry A. (Fritz) Duchman, June 14, 2005, formerly of Grand Island, wife of Ronald R. Duchman; mother of Christine D. Duchman; daughter of Betty and the late Alfred Fritz; sister of Bud Fritz, Sandy (Ted) Burrows, Mary (Gary) Waeger and Richard Fritz. Friends may call Saturday and Sunday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral Services will be held Monday at 11 AM at Trinity United Methodist Church.

 A memorial service will be held for Ann E. Emerson at 10 a.m. Friday in St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island. Mrs. Emerson died Thursday in North Hills Hospital in Richland Hills, Texas after a brief illness. She was 72. The Buffalo native was raised in Kenmore and moved to Grand Island in the 1950s. She moved to Hurst, Texas five years ago to be closer to family. Mrs. Emerson worked in retail sales for most of her life, spending more than 20e years at the former Adam Meldrum & Anderson department store. Her husband, Raymond, died in 1995. Survivors include two sons, Raymond L. of Hurst, Texas, and David B. of Coppell, Texas; a brother, Herbert Drexelius Jr. of Boston; and two grandchildren.

Hazel (Kaegebein) DeGlopper, 94, June 9, 2005, of Grand Island. Wife of the late Walter L. DeGlopper; mother of Robert W. (Karen) DeGlopper of Grand Island and Barbara J. (John) Butterworth of Tampa, FL; grandmother of Mark (Jerica), Erik (Julie) and Daniel DeGlopper, John Butterworth and Terri (John) Ferrin; great-grandmother of Evan, Emily and Izabella DeGlopper; sister of William (Marion) Kaegebein and the late Ellen Harrington, Wilma Clemenhagen, Elmer and Norma Kaegebein; daughter of the late William and Dora Kaegebein. Hazel was born in 1911 in the Town of Tonawanda and in 1912, the Kaegebein family moved to a farm on Whitehaven Road on Grand Island. Today, it is the site of River Oaks Golf Course. She lived the majority of her life on the Island, the past 55 years at her home in Ferry Village. Hazel began attending Trinity Church with her parents as an infant, and continued to be active at Trinity her entire life. As an avid gardener, she provided flowers for the altar for many years. Being a great cook, she worked on many church dinners as well. She was an accomplished seamstress and crafts person as well as an elections inspector. Hazel was a member of the Grand Island Historical Society and spoke on the topic of Island history at the schools and at Island events. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to Trinity United Methodist Church, Grand Island, where memorial services will be held Friday, June 24 at 1 PM.


Earl S. "Sam" Long Jr., 70, died Friday, June 10, 2005, in Kenmore Mercy Hospital, Town of Tonawanda, after a brief illness. “Sam” was a lifelong Grand Island resident and a member of one of the first families to settle on the island. In 1973, he began his own company, Sam Long's Landscaping & Excavating, which included subdivision development and installed water and sewer lines. He partially retired from the business a few years ago. He was a member of the Loyal Order of Moose and a former member of the Grand Island Rod & Gun Club. Sam, who liked to watch NASCAR, raced his own cars and held a stock car racing record at the former War Memorial Stadium. He also enjoyed boat racing and tractor pulling. He was a deer hunter and hunted caribou in Canada's Northwest Territories. He also enjoyed snowmobiling, four-wheelers and spending time with his grandchildren at his camp in the Southern Tier. He was the husband of 23 years, the former Laura Haight; father of Tom (Marie) Long, Tammy (Steve) Geblein Bresee, Kimberly (Rob) Domagala, Melanie (Russ) Banas and Robin (Jason) Moore; step-father of Ronald (Kim) Wendt, Lynn (Steve) Sadar, Kathleen Gaylor and Robert (Betty) Wendt; also survived by 21 grandchildren; brother of Paul E. Long; uncle of Paul M. Long; son of the late Earl and Pearl Long. Friends may call Monday, June 13, 2005 only 6-9 p.m. at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Memorial Services will be held Tuesday at 11 a.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to The American Lung Assn.

Frank M. Wohlfehrt, May 27, 2005, unexpectedly. Frank, 53, of North Tonawanda, was born in Buffalo, the son of John J. and the late Phyllis (nee Montgomery) Wohlfehrt. He was a resident of the Tonawandas for the greater part of his life. A graduate of Grand Island High School, he served with the U. S. Army in Germany for two years during the Vietnam War. He is survived by his father, John J.; his daughter, Janelle (Michael) Jowsey; two sons, John M. Wohlfehrt and Dylan J. Wohlfehrt; two brothers, William (Becky) Wohlfehrt and Charles (Donna) Wohlfehrt; a granddaughter, Jaelynn Jowsey; several nieces and nephews; and a dear friend, Paula Shillan.


Terrence K. Crowe, June 7, 2005, of Grand Island, beloved father of Jeremiah J. and Clara Louise Crowe; son of Col. George F. and Mary Ann (Kumro) Crowe, all of Grand Island; brother of Kate (Matt) Olin of Fripp Island, S.C.; Peggy S. (Randy) White of Grand Island; Daniel G. (Michelle) Crowe of San Diego; and Molly B. (CJ) Grace of Orlando, Fla.; also survived by several nieces and nephews. Friends may call Wednesday only 3-8 p.m. at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday at 10 a.m. at St. Stephen's Church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to The LTC Terrence K. Crowe Memorial Scholarship Fund, N.U. Office of Advancement Services, PO Box 2008, Niagara University, NY 14109 or Canisius College, Alumni Advancement-Annual Giving, 2001 Main St., Buffalo, NY 14208.
     Lt. Col. Terrence K. Crowe didn't have to go to Iraq.
     Based on his long military service, the Grand Island Army Reserve officer had the chance to retire last year from the 98th Division of the Army Reserve.
     Col. Crowe declined. "He actually fought that to go overseas," said Col. Crowe's father, George. "He said it was time to pay his dues. That's the kind of guy he was."
     A Mass of Christian Burial for "Terry" Crowe, who was killed last week during fighting in Iraq, will be offered at 10 a.m. Thursday in St. Stephen Catholic Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island. Burial will be in the church cemetery.
     Col. Crowe, who taught ROTC cadets at Canisius College, was killed by hostile fire last Tuesday during an offensive in the city of Tel Afar, near the Syrian border. He was 44.
     He grew up on Grand Island, attended Huth Road Elementary School, graduated from Bishop Duffy High School in Niagara Falls and went to Niagara University, where he was in the ROTC program. He graduated in 1982 with a bachelor's degree in economics and was commissioned an Army second lieutenant.
     After graduating from infantry school, he was on active duty with the 2nd Armored Division in Germany and Fort Hood, Texas, during the 1980s.
     Col. Crowe returned to Buffalo, where he served as recruiting company commander for the Western New York region. He left active duty in 1992, but shortly after, he served with the Army National Guard and later the 98th Division of the Army Reserve.
     He worked as carpenter with Arida Construction in North Tonawanda before taking a position as an assistant professor of military science at Canisius, instructing ROTC cadets. As an instructor, he was considered dynamic, direct and detailed, skills that spilled over when he went to Iraq last fall to help train new Iraqi security forces.
     "He was an excellent and dedicated officer. That's the only way I can describe him," said his father, a retired colonel. "He did not discuss the pros and cons of the Iraqi war. He was aware of the situation completely and thought we were really trying to help the Iraqi people."
     Col. Crowe won several awards during his military career and posthumously will be awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart.
     Col. Crowe, who was divorced, spent many hours at hockey rinks, baseball diamonds and soccer fields, coaching his two children, now 19 and 17.
     He also enjoyed fishing and bow-hunting.
     Click for Terry Crowe Career History.

Charles W. Marlin, June 7, 2005 of Grand Island; husband of the late Barbara (Gross) Marlin; father of Deborah M. (William) Hays and Donna M. (Stuart) Lavallee both of Grand Island; grandfather of Matthew and Brianna Hays, Timothy, Charles and Julianne Lavallee; son of the late Charles G. and Esther Marlin; brother of the late Edwin Marlin. Friends may call Friday only 4-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME., 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral service will be held Saturday at 11:00 AM at Trinity United Methodist Church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to the American Cancer Society.

Edward F. Bugno, of the Town of Tonawanda, NY, June 4, 2005, beloved son of the late Stephen and Mary (nee Cal) Bugno; brother of Helen (Richard) Mosgeller, Stanley (Cecilia) Bugno, Jeannine (Victor) Wiktorowski, Richard and Robert (Kathleen) Bugno; also survived by several nieces and nephews. Friends received Monday and Tuesday from 5-8 PM at the GRECO FUNERAL HOME, INC., 2909 Elmwood Ave. (near Sheridan Dr.) and are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Andrew's Church, Elmwood Ave. at Sheridan Dr., Wednesday morning at 9:30. Please assemble at church. Mr. Bugno was a U.S. Army veteran, a retired employee of General Motors Powertrain, a member of The Grand Island Rod & Gun Club and The Niagara River Station Fishing Club.

Dixie Lee (Cobado) Gull, June 3, 2005; beloved wife of Henry 'Hank' Gull; beloved mother of Richard (Lynne), Timothy (Lori), Jonathan Gull and two grandchildren; sister to Peggy Lyon, Nancy Kyriakakis, Donna Morgan, Connie, Karl, Ronald, Kent, Wayne, Hale, Deloris, Roger, Bruce Cobado; many nieces and nephews. Friends will be received on Tuesday from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the BABBIT & EASTON FUNERAL HOME, 7 N. Main St., Franklinville, NY. Funeral Services June 8, 2005, ay 10:30 AM in the Presbyterian Church, 25 S. Main St., Franklinville. Burial in Mr. Prospect Cemetery. Memorials to Hospice of Buffalo, 225 Como Park Blvd., Cheektowaga, NY 14227-1480. Dixie Lee is a former Island resident and attended Charlotte Sidway School.

James W. Blum, June 3, 2005, of Grand Island, NY; husband of Diane Blum; father of Shannon (Lisa) Newton, Joseph (Sherry White) and Patrick Blum; grandfather of Keira and Maia; brother of Betty (David) Clayton; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Monday only 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Trinity United Methodist Church, Grand Island, where Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, June 7, 2005 at 11 am.

Alice E. (McArthur) Griem, May 23, 2005, of Grand Island, NY; formerly of West Seneca, NY ; wife of the late Lawrence W. Griem; mother of Marsha (David) Hammond grandmother of Tracy (Jeffrey) Senn and Scott (Lisa) Hammond; great grandmother of Daniel Senn and Jack and Anna Hammond; sister of David (Arline) McArthur and the late James, (Late Marie), Ovid (late Jane) and Herbert McArthur. Relatives and friends received at The SIECK & MAST FUNERAL HOME, 250 Orchard Park Rd, West Seneca 825-5205, Saturday May 28 from 11-1 PM with a service starting at 1 PM. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to Hospice, 225 Como Park Blvd, Cheektowaga, NY 14227.

Marion D. (Howarth) Birtz, May 23, 2005, of Pocasset, MA, formerly of Grand Island, mother of Stephen A. (Patricia-Giordano) Birtz of Grand Island and Larry K. Birtz of Florida; grandmother of Jason A. (Jennifer) Birtz; sister of James Howarth, of South Easton, MA. Private funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorials to The Buffalo Zoo, 300 Parkside Ave., Buffalo 14214.

 Francis S. Carr M.D., May 19, 2005, of Grand Island, husband of Betty Carr (eight years) and the late Marian (Wilcox) Carr (56 years); father of Carol (Tommy) Fox of Conover, NC and Deborah S. (Dr. Charles) Rice of Grand Island; grandfather of David (Paula) and Scott Zahm, Alexis, Tara, Charles Francis and Elizabeth Rice; stepfather of Martin, James, Michael and Patrick O'Dea, Mary Jo Beyer and Kathy Donath; also survived by 23 step-grandchildren and 13 step-great-grandchildren; brother of Richard (Wanda) Carr and the late Luella Chrisler, Marian Martin, Frank and Douglas Carr; son of the late James Earl and Florence Etta Carr. Friends may call Sunday, May 22 only, 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral services will be held Monday at 11 AM at Trinity United Methodist Church. Burial was at Whitehaven Cemetery.
   Francis Shattuck Carr was born on June 13, 1913 in born in Bath, N.Y. He received his bachelor's degree from Alfred University and then attended Albany Medical College. After completing a three-year OB-GYN residency, Carr began his medical practice. He retired in 1977 after 24 years.
   "Dad was a very kind and gentle man who lived out his faith with his life," said his daughter, Deborah Rice of Grand Island. "He was always going out of his way and doing for others."
   An avid golfer, he golfed until the age of 88. His hobbies and varied interests included lapidary work, bird watching, hunting, fishing, photography, gardening and computer games.
   He bought his first computer at the age of 81 and enjoyed it until the age of 91.
   His family said, "We have no idea exactly how many babies he delivered, but between Erie and Niagara counties, we are sure it was a great number."
   "Toward the end of my father's practice, he began taking pictures of the moms holding the babies that he had just delivered," said Rice. "When they came in for their six-week checkup, he would surprise them with the photos as a gift."

 Carol LaVonne (Laman) Jones, May 14, 2005; of Grand Island, NY; beloved husband of 48 years to Robert Jones; mother of Timothy, Kim, Gary, Kandice and Shawn; also survived by fourteen grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Friends may call Wednesday, May 18, 2005 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the LESTER H. WEDEKINDT FUNERAL HOME INC., 3290 Delaware Ave. where funeral service will be held Wednesday evening at 8 p.m. Friends invited. Mrs. Jones was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star and the Auxillary Fraternal Order of the Eagles. She was a pilot for the Civil Air patrol during WW II.

 Norma E. Chateauneuf, 88, of Holmes Beach, FL, formerly of Grand Island and Batavia, NY, May 15, 2005. She is survived by two daughters, Carol Lynn (Robert) Stevens of Hamburg, NY and Marilyn (David) Hickey of Rochester, NY; two sons, Michael of Washington, DC and Rehobeth Beach, DE and Richard (Wanda) of Palm Beach Gardens, FL; also survived by four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life at 1 p.m. Wednesday, May 18, 2005 at St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Dr., Holmes Beach, FL 34217. Memorial contributions may be made to the church or to Hospice of SW Florida, 5955 Rand Blvd., Sarasota, FL. Arrangements by GRIFFITH-CLINE FUNERAL HOME, (941) 748-1011.

 Lydia E. (Litke) Endres, May 12, 2005, of Grand Island, NY; wife of the late Alfred E. Endres; mother of Liz (Greg) Barker and Mike (Terry) Endres; grandmother of Anne Barker, Jill, Katie and Al Endres; sister of Elsie Hegedus, Ida Stark, Violet Runckel and the late Robert, Alvin and Max Litke; also survived by several nieces and nephews. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to St. Timothy Lutheran Church, 1453 Staley Rd., Grand Island, where Memorial Services will be held Sunday at 6:30 p.m.

 Richard Schnitzer, 54, of Heritage Manor of Ransomville, NY, died Saturday, May 7, 2005. Ricky was born February 27, 1951 in Niagara Falls, NY and spent most of his youth growing up and attending schools on Grand Island, NY. He was the son of Lois (Woolzerton) Schnitzer Maira of Lockport and the late Theodore N. Schnitzer. He had been a resident of Heritage Manor for the past seven years. In addition to his mother, he is survived by his sisters, Lynda (Donald) Jamieson of Ft. Erie, Ontario; Dianne (Philip) Ruhlandt of Redford, MI; Heidi (Wayne) DelNero of Rio Linda, CA; Lori (Donald) Marshall of Saginaw, MI; and Debra Lewis of North Tonawanda, NY. Friends may call Wednesday, May 11 from 10 to 11 a.m. at Hardison Funeral Home, 3648 Ransomville Road, Ransomville where funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Burial will be in the North Ridge Cemetery, Town of Cambria.

 Eleanor T. Thomas, a former Grand Island teacher, died Tuesday, May 3, 2005 in Bon Secours Nursing Center in Venice, Fla., after a long illness. She was 84. Born and raised in Buffalo as Eleanor Thom, Mrs. Thomas graduated from Lafayette High School. She earned her bachelor's and master's degrees from Buffalo State College and was a member of the Alpha Sigma Alpha sorority. She taught in the Grand Island Public Schools for 19 years, retiring in 1979. She was also a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church. She moved to Venice 17 years ago. Her husband, Edgar N., died in 1993. She is survived by her son, David B. of Buffalo; a daughter, Sara T. Straub of Venice; a sister, Sarah Schwenzer of Philadelphia; five grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at a later date in Westminster Presbyterian Church. Inurnment will be in Forest Lawn, Buffalo.

Patricia E. (O'Reagan) Gaiser, May 3, 2005; of Grand Island; wife of James J. Gaiser I; mother of Kathleen (Robert) Hickman, James J. II (Eleanor), Diane (Richard) Gurbacki, Joseph and John (Peggy) Gaiser; also survived by twelve grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren; sister of Florence Dignan and Rose Schwartz. Friends may call Thursday, May 5, 2005 7-9 p.m. and Friday, May 6 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial celebrated Saturday, May 7 at 10 a.m. at St. Stephen's Church, Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to the Grand Island Fire Company.

William S. Wilson, formerly of Grand Island, died Sunday in his Palm Harbor, Florida home after an illness. He was 61. Mr. Wilson was born in Simcoe, Ontario. His job with Emerson Industrial Controls brought him to the Buffalo area in 1973. He worked there from the late 1960s and was vice president and general manager when he retired in 1989 and moved to Florida. Survivors include his wife, the former Dorine Knoll of Palm Harbor; a daughter, Jennifer S. Jones of Omaha, Nebraska; a son, Michael of Woodbridge, Virginia; a sister, Beverly Paget of St. Catharines, Ontario; and four grandchildren. Services in Florida will be private.

Patricia Kelly Carminati-Levere , May 2, 2005 of Grand Island, NY; wife of Ralph 'Butch' Levere; mother of Patricia Ashley and Casey Carminati; daughter of Patricia and Ron McNamee and the late Rodney Alt; sister of Christopher, Billy and the late David Alt. Friends may call Friday only 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral services private. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to Roswell Park Cancer Institute.


Georgia R. Mehl, a retired teacher and guidance counselor, died April 21, 2005 in Buffalo General Hospital following a short illness. She was 83. Born in Geneva, Ohio, the former Georgia Turner graduated from Otterbein College, a private liberal arts college in Westerville, Ohio, and moved to the Buffalo area in the 1950s. She was hired in 1953 as a physical education teacher at the Charlotte Sidway School on Grand Island where she taught for nearly 10 years. A resident of Elma, Mrs. Mehl was a teacher and guidance counselor in the Iroquois Central School District from the 1960s until her retirement in 1984. Her husband, Raymond, died in 1971. Burial will be private.

Mildred C. (Godfrey) Grimm, April 30, 2005, of Grand Island, mother of Curt J. and Gary A. Grimm; grandmother of Nicole (Jamie) Reynolds, Curt Jr. (Linda) and Lindsey Grimm; also survived by four great-grandchildren; sister of Charles, David, Harry (Betty) and the late Almon Godfrey. Memorial Services will be held Monday at 12 Noon at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined.

Mary Ann (Rampado) Brown , April 19, 2005, in her Grand Island home. Born in St. Catherines, Ontario, she was a former registered nurse with the Erie County Health Department. Mrs. Brown was the wife of Jack Henry Brown; mother of Mary Carol Brown; sister of Edward (Mary) Rampado, Nell (John) White and the late Dan (survived by wife Dolores) and George (survived by wife Marianne) Rampado; daughter of the late Victor and Josephine Rampado; friend of Ryan Pettit; also survived by nieces and nephews. Friends may call Friday, April 22, 2005 only 3-8 p.m. at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island where funeral services will be held Saturday at 12 noon. Interment will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Roswell Park Cancer Institute or Hospice Buffalo National Cremation Society, New Port Richey.

Janice E. Siegel, 77, of Bayonet Point, formerly of Grand Island, NY, died Monday, April 11, 2005 in Regional Medical Center, Bayonet Point, Florida. She was born in New York and came to Florida in 1992 from Pittsburgh. She and her husband and family resided on Grand Island from 1957-1981. She was a homemaker and volunteered with the Red Cross and PTA on Grand Island, NY, to which she was awarded a life membership. Janice was predeceased by her husband, Morton M. Siegel, who passed away September 11, 2003. Survivors include three sons, Brian, Stuart and Gregory; a sister, Murial Lash; and seven grandchildren. National Cremation Society, New Port Richey.

Maryann Monaco, April 9, 2005, beloved daughter of Sam R. and Angeline (nee Giglia) Monaco; dear sister of Mrs. Donna (William) Gillan, Salvatore (Ellen) Monaco, Michael (Linda) Monaco, Robert Monaco and James (Donna) Monaco. No prior visitation. Friends and family are invited to celebrate a Memorial Mass, Tuesday at 10:30 AM in St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined. Arrangements by AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC.

Dorothy (Flessing) Carlson, of Hamburg, NY, formerly of Grand Island, NY; beloved wife of the late Oscar Carlson; dearest mother of Jacqueline (Robert) Weiss; loving grandmother of Kimberly (Michael) VanWagnen and Christopher (Gigi) Weiss; cherished great-grandmother of Matthew, Morgan VanWagnen and Liana Weiss. Funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements by LOOMIS, OFFERS & LOOMIS INC, Hamburg Chapel.

Cameron Michael Caudill, April 2, 2005, of Grand Island, age three months, passed away unexpectedly at Kenmore Mercy Hospital. Cameron was born January 12, 2005, with twin sister Alexandrea Mary at Sisters Hospital, Buffalo. He was the infant son of proud parents, Bryan and Denise (Mulvena) Caudill; grandson of Bruce and Rosemary Wojick, Daniel and Susan Mulvena and the late Andrea (Caudill) Nye; nephew of Chad Caudill, Michael Mulvena and Michelle Mulvena. Cameron will be remembered as a baby who shared his smile with the world and was ready to face any challenge life could bring. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church, Grand Island. Interment will be in St. Stephen's Cemetery. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Cameron's family.

Paul Scheu Murphy, 64, went to be with the Lord on April 1, 2005 after battling cancer. Originally from the Buffalo and Grand Island, NY area, he has been a Florida resident for almost 40 years and was the head of the family-owned Tropical Fence Company. An avid Harley rider, he was an annual participant in the Toys for Tots Bike Run. Paul is survived by his wife, Carole Radder Murphy, son, Mark (Sue) Murphy, daughter Ginger (Pete) Frank, grandsons Samuel Murphy and new born Alex Frank, all of Ft Myers, Florida. He is also survived by brothers Mike (Suzy) of Daytona, Florida; Terry of Jacksonville, Florida; Kent (Adrienne) of Gypsum, Colorado; and a sister, Laurie (Roger) Paul of Charlotte, North Carolina. Predeceased by his parents, Virginia Scheu and Frank Murphy, and a sister, Katy, and his grandmother, Louise "Granny" Scheu. A private burial will be held this week. A memorial service for family and friends will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 9, 2005 at Faith Assembly of God, 6850 Bayshore Road in North Fort Myers. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Hope Hospice, 9470 HealthPark Circle, Ft. Myers, Florida 33908 or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital Memorial Program, 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 38105, a charity dear to Paul’s heart.

Doris C. (Fleischmann) Moran, Thursday, March 31, 2005, of Grand Island, wife of the late Ralph J. 'Tiny' Moran; mother of Daniel J., Diane C., Dennis P. and Ronald L. (Nancy) Moran; grandmother of Jackie, Jay, Joel, Jonathan, Janine, Jessica, Andrew, Krista and Amanda Moran; great-grandmother of Allison and Sydney Leszczak, Lexia Grace and Quinn Moran; sister of the late Elmer Fleischmann and Mabel Bartlett; daughter of the late Peter and Catherine Fleischmann. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday at 11:30 a.m. at St. Stephen's Church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to the American Diabetes Association.

Jonathan D. Louth of Sarasota, Fla., a construction field supervisor who lived most of his life in Western New York, died Easter Sunday, March 27, 2005 in Sarasota as a result of injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident. He was 21. Born in Buffalo, Mr. Louth moved to Grand Island when he was 5 and lived there until moving to Florida about a year ago. He was a graduate of Grand Island High School. While here, he worked as a finish carpenter, using his artistic abilities to fashion trim, rails and moldings for area homes. In Florida, he worked as a field supervisor for Eslinger Homes, in charge of the construction of up to 20 homes at the same time. Mr. Louth participated in a number of sports, including archery, baseball, volleyball and golf. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing, as well as collecting tools. Jonathan was the beloved son of David E. and Cynthia A. (nee Najuch) Louth of Grand Island; dear brother of Jason of Baltimore and Brent Louth of Grand Island; grandson of Ernest and Eileen Louth of the Town of Tonawanda and Raymond and Lois Najuch of Spring Hill, Florida; also survived by several aunts, uncles and cousins. The family will be present to receive friends Thursday, March 31, 2005 from 7-9 p.m. and Friday, April 1st from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. at the (Tonawanda Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME INC., 2600 Sheridan Dr., (at Parker Blvd.), where Funeral Services will be held Saturday at 9 a.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 10 a.m. in St. Stephen Church, Grand Island, at 10 AM. Burial will be in Acacia Park Cemetery, Pendleton. Flowers gratefully declined. If desired, contributions may be made in Jonathan's memory to Camp Good Days and Special Times.

Jean A. (Peritore) D'Amico, March 26, 2005, beloved wife of Anthony J. D'Amico; dearest mother of Francine (Fred) George, Lynne (Don) Short, Anthony (Judy) D'Amico, Jr. and Rosanne (Ron) Wagner; devoted grandmother of Christina (Gabe), Matthew (Martha), Heather, Kaitlin, Justin, Bradley, Lauren, Kari, Lisa, Theresa, Jeannine, Nick and Ben and one great-grandchild, Atticus; dear sister of Rosemarie Peritore and Lori (late Allan) Barth; also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins. The family will be present on Monday from 7-9 PM and Tuesday from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the (Tonawanda Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 2600 Sheridan Dr. (corner Parker Blvd.) where funeral services will be held Wednesday at 9:15 AM and from St. Stephen's Church, Grand Island, NY at 10 AM. Contributions may be made to St. Jude's Childrens Hospital, The Leukemia Society, The Hospice Foundation and Roswell Park Alliance Foundation.

William F. Burk, 80, March 6, 2005 in Largo, Fl, formerly of Grand Island. Beloved husband of Emilie of Largo, FL, father of Suzanne Ryan of Williamsville, NY and William Burk of Clearwater, FL; grandfather of William Burk of Clearwater, FL and Stephen Ryan of Syracuse, NY. Memorial service to be held in Largo, April 4, 2005.

 Dolores Williams, a Grand Island homemaker, died Friday, March 25, 2005 in Erie County Medical Center after a long illness. She was 84. Born Dolores Jones in Youngstown, Ohio, she moved to Buffalo with her family at age 7. For the past 35 years, she lived on Grand Island. Mrs. Williams enjoyed playing the organ, was a fashion enthusiast and was known for providing sound advice on relationships, family members said. Her first husband, Benjamin Burks, died in 1989, and her second husband, James A. Williams, died in 2002. She was predeceased by a daughter, the late Dolores Goggins. Survivors include three daughters, Carmenita J. Brown and Charida Tolerson, both of Buffalo, and Cobina (Charlie) Pener of Springboro, Ohio; two sons, Benjamin Burks of Newport, R.I., and Rodney Burks of Buffalo; a stepson, Foster Tolbert of Buffalo; two sisters, Pecola Carbonell and Pauline Childers, both of Buffalo; 20 grandchildren; 35 great-grandchildren; and 15 great-great-grandchildren. Visitation will be held Tuesday, March 29, 2005 from 10-11 a.m. followed by services at 11 a.m. Tuesday in St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church, 2587 Baseline Road, Grand Island. Burial will be in Maple Grove Cemetery, Grand Island.


Catherine "Kay" DeGlopper Haller, Grand Island native and lifetime resident, passed away Friday, March 25, 2005 in Rialto, California at the age of 88. The wife of the late Arthur G. Haller, Kay was born on Grand Island on May 28, 1916. She worked for the Niagara Frontier State Parks Commissions. Mother of Cathy (John) Contino of Palmyra, NY; Arthura (Virgil) Van Heerde of Rialto, California and Art F. (Patricia) Haller of Grand Island. Grandmother of Jason and Jeremy Van Heerde of Rialto, California, John Contino of Palmyra, NY and Katie Contino of East Meadow, NY and the late Derrek Haller. Mrs. Haller was the great grandmother of Micayla Contino and Ellie Van Heerde. She was predeceased by her brother, Frank DeGlopper. A memorial celebration will be held in California on Thursday, March 31, 2005. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St Stephen's Church, Baseline Road, Grand Island at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 16, 2005. Interment in Maple Grove Cemetery, followed by a celebration at Brennan's (formerly Del & Herb's). Arrangements by Kaiser Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Special Olympics.

 Lisa (Ward) Crawford, 47, Friday, March 18, 2005 in Roswell Park Cancer Institute. Beloved wife of David Crawford; dear mother of Matthew Pawelski of Grand Island; loving daughter of John and Eileen (McCracken) Ward of Orchard Park; sister of Dr. John (Debra) Ward of Kenmore, Madonna (Michael) Giardina of Alden and Cindy Alba of Hamburg; daughter-in-law of Jack and Harriett (Crist) Crawford; also survived by many nieces, nephews and friends. Friends may call Sunday from 7-9 PM and Monday from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the JAMES W. CANNAN FUNERAL HOME INC. (Southtowns Chapel), 3155 Orchard Park Rd. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday at 9:00 AM at St. John Vianney Church (please assemble at church). Burial will be in Holy Cross Cemetery, Lackawanna. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Roswell Park Institute. Lisa was an active member of the Alpha Group of St. Stephen's Church in Grand Island. For the past six years, she worked at the Catholic Charities Counseling Center in Kenmore, and previous to that, she worked for many years as a secretary for National Grange Mutual. Born Lisa Ward in Buffalo, she attended West Seneca West High School and graduated in fashion merchandising from Bryant & Stratton Business Institute. During her illness, she sought healing through holistic approaches, which she felt extended her life and comfort level. Toward the end, she participated in experimental treatments that, while unable to help her, might someday help other cancer patients. Mrs. Crawford enjoyed walking the wooded trails behind her home, cultivating her Bible garden and water skiing and snorkeling in the waters around the Island.

Phyllis C. (Ahrens) Bota, March 20, 2005, of Grand Island, wife of the late Joseph J. Bota; mother of Lynn (Brett) Lombardo and Larry (Deborah) Bota, both of Grand Island; grandmother of Cory and Cortney Bota, Kerry Evans, Jr., Kyle and Kelly Greene; great-grandmother of Kerry III and Kody Evans, Kameron and Kelsey Greene. Friends may call Tuesday only 5-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Graveside Services will be held at a later date. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to The American Heart Assn. or The American Lung Assn.

 James R. Shear, March 19, 2005, of Depew, NY, former Grand Island resident, husband of Catherine M. (nee Thomas) Shear; dearest father of Mary (Donald) Wicka and Richard (Maureen) Shear; loving grandfather of two grandchildren; brother of Marianne (James) Tranter. The family will be present Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at the (Lancaster-Depew Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 6050 Transit Rd. where funeral services will be held on Wednesday at 9:15 AM and a Mass of Christian Burial from Sacred Heart Church (Bowmansville) at 10 AM. Friends invited. Flowers gratefully declined.

Patricia A. (Tewksbury) Bessel, 67, March 17, 2005, of Grand Island, age 67, beloved wife of Richard; dearest mother of Marjorie, Timothy, Jamie and Richard; daughter of the late Olin Tewksbury and Marguerite Tewksbury of Windsor, VT; survived by sister Mary Tewksbury and brother Ned Tewksbury; adored grandmother of T.J. Bessel; also survived by nieces and nephews. A Memorial Service will be held at the Grand Island Holiday Inn on Monday, March 21, at 7 PM.

 Lillian Chiasera, who was a laborer at Bell Aircraft during World War II, died Thursday, March 17, 2005 in Northgate Manor Nursing Home following a lengthy illness. She was 90. Born Lillian Wojciehowski in Niagara Falls, she attended Holy Trinity School. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Niagara Falls. A former Grand Island resident, she had been a member of St. Stephen's Catholic Church on Grand Island and Grand Island Golden Agers. Mrs. Chiasera had been a resident of the nursing home for two years. Her husband, James, died in 1983. Survivors include two sons, Frank J. of the Town of Niagara and James G. of Grand Island; a daughter, Marcia C. Neri of Grand Island; 10 grandchildren; and 20 great-grandchildren. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 9:30 a.m. Monday in Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 1112 South Ave., Niagara Falls, following prayers at 9 in Lane Funeral Home, 8622 Buffalo Ave., Niagara Falls. Burial will be in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Lewiston.

Lee A. Forster, 86, Tuesday, March 15, 2005 in Sisters Hospital after a long illness. Living in Buffalo, he was a former Grand Island resident; husband of the late Ruby Lee Highfield Forster; dear father of Carol Lee (Al) Baker of Snyder, Martin J. Piersal of Snyder and the late Leo A. Forster; grandfather of Linda M. (Brian) Evans , Christine (Martin) Jeffery and Mark C. (Mary) Baker; great-grandfather of Mark C., Jr., Kyle D., Kacy Lee, John E. and Jason M.; brother of Patricia A. (Bernard) Swick of Grosse Ile, Mich.; and the late Blanche McWhite, Marjorie, Karl and Michael Forster; also survived by many nieces and nephews.
    Country music singer, Mr. Forster and his wife, the late Ruby Lee Forster, were regular performers on the Chevrolet Barn Dance television show on WBEN-TV in the early 1950s. Mr. Forster, already a regular on the show, met his wife when she auditioned for the program. The Buffalo native performed with his wife for five decades, everything from bluegrass to square dances. "We always had nice places to go to and enjoyed the music and laughter," said his daughter, Carol Lee Baker, who often accompanied her parents to their performances. For three years in the mid-1950s, Mr. Forster and his wife performed in Las Vegas, appearing on radio station KBMI and at the Showboat Casino.
   When they returned to Buffalo, they entertained crowds at rodeos and county fairs. They toured the Canadian hotel circuit in Ontario and Quebec. They opened for Tex Ritter, the Louvin Brothers and Patsy Cline, among other stars. In Buffalo, the couple had music shows on radio stations WEBR, WKBW and WWOL, as well as WHLD in Niagara Falls. In the 1970s and 1980s, they performed regularly in country music clubs, colleges and outdoor summer stages. Mr. Forster was a graduate of St. Joseph's Collegiate Institute, Canisius College and Niagara University. He also had worked at Hooker Chemical Co. as a chemist.
    Friends may call Friday 2-4 and 6-8 PM at the DENGLER FUNERAL HOME, 2070 Eggert Rd., Eggertsville, where Funeral Services will be held Saturday morning at 9 AM. Burial will be in Buffalo Cemetery, Cheektowaga. On line tributes may be made to www.mem.com. Mr. Forster was a member of the Musicians' Union Local #92, a long time entertainer and TV and radio personality.

 Helen B. Reynolds, March 15, 2005, of Grand Island, wife of the late Homer R. Reynolds; mother of Homer S. (Charlene), Barbara A. (Ronald) Gannon, Robert A. (Judy) and Patrick C. (Julie) Reynolds; grandmother of Anne Marie, Michelle, Christopher, Darcy, Nicole, Tammy, Rick, Dennis, Stacey, Robert, and Amy; also survived by 18 great-grandchildren; sister of Irene Kostalek, Henry Sachanowski and the late Dorothy Ziolkowski, Stanley, Edward and Alfred Sachanowski. Friends may call Thursday only 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral services will be held Friday at 10:00 AM at the Chapel, 895 N. Forest Rd., Williamsville.

 Theresa L. Martin-Stewart, 39, formerly of Grand Island, NY; beloved wife of James E. Stewart Jr.; dear mother of James Stewart III; daughter of Frank and the late Arlene Martin; sister of Deborah (James) Connolly, Frank (Marion) Martin and Patricia (Richard) McGilvray; daughter-in-law of James and Mary Stewart; survived by nieces and nephews. Friends may call at the JAMES E. GRACE FUNERAL HOME INC., 335 Ontario St., Tuesday 4-8 PM. Friends may gather for a Funeral Mass in All Saints Church, 205 Esser Ave., Wednesday at a time to be announced. Flowers gratefully declined.

 Wallace Gerald “Walt” Youngs, 42, former Grand Island resident, suddenly, March 5, 2005, in Birmingham, AL, father of Sophia of Charleston, WV, Robert and Camilla of Oshkosh, WI; son of Gerald and stepson of Annette Youngs of Clarence, NY and son of Paula Binis and stepson of Ray of Painter, VA; brother of Karen (Mark) Bullock of Grand Island, NY and Jeffrey (Julie) Youngs of Santa Monica, CA; also survived by a grandchild and nieces and nephews. Memorials to the Catholic Charities or a charity of your choice. Memorial Services pending.

 Kathy (Schoenle) Bibeau, March 6, 2005, formerly of Grand Island, passed away at the Ocala Regional Medical Center in Ocala, Florida. She is survived by her husband, Glen Bibeau of Ocala, Florida, and her brother, Michael (Debbie) Schoenle of Grand Island. She was the daughter of the late Madonna and Albert Schoenle. A memorial service will be held 3 p.m. Wednesday, March 9, 2005 at Central Christian Church, Ocala, Florida. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested gifts be sent to the Marion County Humane Society.

Barbara C. Brennan, March 5, 2005, of Grand Island, wife of Robert E. Brennan; mother of Patrick (Jennifer) Brennan; grandmother of Jack and Jessica; sister of Dr. Marjorie Allen. Friends may call Monday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo, 225 Como Park Blvd., Cheektowaga, NY 14227.


1950 wedding photo
 Esther Dorothea MacPherson Whitford, 78, of Grand Island, NY, passed away Sunday, March 6, 2005. She was born in Sharon, Connecticut. Mrs. Whitford is survived by her loving husband of 55 years, William Henry Whitford of Grand Island, New York; her daughter, Holly Jean Whitford (Barry) Best of Colorado; her three sons, William George Whitford of Utah; Bruce MacDonald Whitford of Grand Island, New York; and Cameron Reid (Amy) Whitford of Orchard Park, New York. She is also survived by three grandsons, Brian Whitford, Benjamin Whitford, and Michael Best, and three granddaughters, Alexandra Whitford, Sarah Whitford, and Elizabeth Whitford. Private services will be held at a later date.

Mary V. (Haley) Haller, 89, March 2, 2005; of Grand Island; wife of the late Delbert J. Haller; mother of E. Delbert (Nannette), David M. (Margaret Ann) Haller and the late Maryrose Elstrodt; grandmother of Delbert, Jennifer, Jamie and Jeannette Haller, Beth Elstrodt, Julie (Wraye) Duziak and the late David M. Haller Jr; great-grandmother of Emily Rose, Eliza Duziak and Jordan Haller; daughter of the late Edward and Viola Haley; sister of the late Helen C. Ring and David G. Haley. Friends may call Friday only 4-8 at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church.

 Betty Jean Ross, Age 62 of Grand Island, N.Y., formerly of Amherst and Olean N.Y., died February 28, 2005 in Buffalo General Hospital. She was cared for by People Inc. Memorial Service, Saturday, March 5, 2005 at noon at CASEY, HALWIG & HARTLE FUNERAL HOME, 3128 W. State Rd., Olean N.Y. Burial in Allegany, N.Y. Cemetery.

 Raymond F. Turner, February 27, 2005, of Grand Island, husband of Betty (Burke) Turner; father of Mark B. (Lucille), Stephen L. (Karen), Kim F. Turner and Joyce (Michael) George; grandfather of Maria, Angela, Stephen, Charles, Jason, Nicholas, Jessica, Amanda, Colleen, Bridget and Mary; also survived by three grandchildren; brother of Herbert and William Turner, Marilyn Boje, Ann Marie Rook and the late Lorraine Sommer; son of the late Stanley and Elizabeth Turner; sister-in-law of Barbara Missica and Beverly Derner. Friends may call Tuesday only 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Mr. Turner was a dedicated employee of Conrail Railroad for 41 years.


Paul M. Facklam Sr., 59, died Sunday, February 27, 2005 in his Grand island home from cancer. He was the husband of Linda (Darby) Facklam; father of Paul M. Jr. (Kelly) of Boston, Mass. and Kevin G. Facklam of Chicago; brother of Jeanne (Dean) Harper of Rochester, Arnold W. II (Carole) of Hamburg and Norman (Marianne) Facklam of Queensbury, NY; son of the late Arnold W. and Mildred Facklam; also survived by several nieces and nephews. Friends may call Tuesday and Wednesday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island where funeral services will be held Thursday at 11 AM. Interment will be in Riverdale Cemetery, Lewiston. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to The Melanoma Research Foundation, 24 Old Georgetown Road, Princeton, NJ 08540. Paul was born in Buffalo and graduated from Buffalo Evening High School. A 48-year resident of Grand Island, he served in the Marines in the late 1960s and was stationed in Vietnam. He worked in Nabisco's Milk Bone plant in Buffalo for 30 years, retiring in 1998. Paul was active in the local union, where he served as vice president, and was a member of Disabled American Veterans-New York Chapter 168 and on the board of directors of Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 77. He enjoyed traveling, working with computers and spending time with his family and pets.

Michelle L. Nesbitt, 27, formerly of Grand Island and Niagara Falls died on Thursday, February 17, 2005 after being shot in the head during a triple shooting in Fort Wayne, Indiana where she lived. Born in Xenia, Ohio, she moved to Niagara Falls as a teenager with her family. In 1990, she moved to Grand Island and attended Grand Island High School. She later received a GED. She moved to Fort Wayne about seven months ago and was working as a crew member at a McDonald’s there at the time of her death. Surviving are a son, Willie Harris IV of Niagara Falls; her mother, JoAnn Hall of Grand Ledge, Mich.; her father, Howard Shearer of Xenia; two brothers, David Shearer and Rick Hall, both of Fort Wayne; and her grandmother, Dorothy Shearer of Xenia. Memorial services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday in Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island.

Rose (Thomas) Kimiak, February 22, 2005; of Grand Island; formerly of Tonawanda; Age 90; wife of the late Stanely J. Kimiak; dearest mother Beth (Donald) Cook, Catherine (Bradley) Lansberry and Susan (Larry) Ondovic; also survived by three grandchildren & two great-grandchildren; sister of the late Francis Leigl, John & Joseph Thomas. Friends may call Wednesday 7-9 PM & Thursday 2-4 & 7-9 PM at KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. She was loved by many.

 Jeanette Nowinski, Of Grand Island, NY, entered into rest February 23, 2005, devoted mother of Kim (Tony) Delmonte; cherished grandmother of Keri (Shawn) Przybylak and Kati Delmonte (Thomas Krol); loving daughter of the late Walter and Clara (nee Jankowski) Nowinski; dear sister of Eugene, Walter, Joann Nowinski and predeceased by two sisters; also survived by relatives and friends. Relatives and friends may visit The LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (City Chapel), 102 Linwood Ave. at Summer on Friday from 11 AM-1 PM where the funeral service will immediately follow. Interment St. Stanislaus Cemetery.

   Corrine Johnson-Walker, 78, of Grand Island died February 18, 2005 in Mt. St. Mary's Hospital. Born December 30, 1926 in Petersburg, VA, she was the daughter of Charlie and Hattie (Best) Smith. She moved to Niagara Falls, NY to be with her daughter, Bernice Hague in November 1999. She was a member of the Harvest International Full Gospel Baptist Church where she served as Church Mother. She enjoyed flowers and dining out with the Niagara County "Chat-N'-Chew" program, and socializing with friends. Surviving is one daughter, Bernice (Rev. Richard) Hague Jr. of Grand Island, NY; three brothers, Bert Smith, Charlie Smith and Clarence Smith; five sisters, Dorothy Harris, Gloria Smith, Margaret English, Ruth Smith and Helen Thompson; five grandchildren, and a host of other relatives, as well as special friends Maxine Hopkins, Norvell Freeney, Nettie Brewer and Dru Taylor. Visitation and funeral services will be from the Tucker Funeral Home, 414 Halifax St., Petersburg, VA 23803. Local arrangements by Williamson Funeral Home, 635 Main St. Niagara Falls, NY.

   George W. Shaw, February 17, 2005, of Grand Island, husband of Patricia A. Shaw; father of Sherry L. (John) Watkins of Brighton, MI. and Scott W. (Patricia D.) Shaw of Grand Island; grandfather of Jennifer Watkins, Evan, and Ben Shaw; brother of Clara (Joe) Miller, Ruthann Agualera, Bonnie Sue (Duanne Thomas) Crabtree and Meril Gray; son of the late George and Virginia Shaw; step-son of the late Eleanor Shaw Roraff; also survived by nieces, nephews, and many good friends. Friends may call Sunday only 1-4 PM and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, where funeral services will be held Monday at 11:00 AM. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to the George W. Shaw Memorial Scholarship Fund, C/O M & T Bank, 2381 Grand Island Blvd., Grand Island, NY 14072.

   Thomas R. Gilmore, 80, of Grand Island, a retired Goodyear Tire & Rubber employee, died Wednesday, February 16, 2005 in Mount St. Mary's Hospital, Lewiston. Born in Knoxville, Tenn., he attended the University of Tennessee and earned a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy. Mr. Gilmore moved to Western New York in 1953 to work at Goodyear's Niagara Falls operation. In the 1960s, the company transferred him to Logan, Utah, for three years. He returned to Western New York in 1969. He was the recipient of a Goodyear Spirit Award. He retired in 1994. He served as a pilot in the Navy during World War II. Mr. Gilmore was a lifetime member of the PTA and was active in Little League Baseball, football and Boy Scouts. He was former treasurer of the Grand Island Republican Committee and was Grand Island's liaison to the Erie County Environmental Management Council. He also served as a water commissioner for the City of Niagara Falls. A longtime officer and member of the Kiwanis Club, he received the Grand Island Citizen of the Year award for his work with the Sesquicentennial Committee. As one of the last three members of Grand Island's Kiwanis Club, he agreed to give the club's 18.7-acre parcel of land on Bush Road to the town, to be preserved as green space. A sportsman, he enjoyed golf and fishing. He learned to ski cross-country after retiring and was a member of the Bell Ski Club and Nordic Ski Club. Mr. Gilmore was an elder of Island Presbyterian Church, Grand Island, and was also active in the church choir. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Shirley F. Gilmore; three sons, Donald F. (Teresa) of Louisville, T. Russell (Kerrie) of Carrollton, Texas, and Paul A. (Abby) of Whitehell, Penn.; two daughters, Susan J. (Rusty) Spaulding of Beech Island, S.C., and Kathryn J. (Bill Godwin) Gilmore of Cheektowaga; a sister, Ann (Patrick) Spurgeon of Statesboro, Ga.; and eight grandchildren. Tom was the son of the late Clara A. and Thomas R. Gilmore Sr. Memorials may be made to Island Presbyterian Church, Grand Island, where a memorial service will be held at 7:30 p.m. Sunday in Island Presbyterian Church, 1822 Huth Road, Grand Island.

   Ruth P. Albing, 82, of Basking Ridge, N.J., a longtime employee of the Grand Island School District, died on February 10, 2005 at Fellowship Village in Basking Ridge after a brief illness. Born Ruth Popalisky in Buffalo, NY, she worked for the Grand Island School District for about 15 years in a variety of positions, retiring in 1977. She also had worked for Western Electric in the Town of Tonawanda. After retiring, she lived in New London, N.H., before moving to New Jersey eight years ago. Mrs. Albing was a member of Liberty Corner Presbyterian Church and a former member of Trinity United Methodist Church on Grand Island. A hospice volunteer, she enjoyed gardening and arts and crafts. Her husband, George K., died in 1994. Surviving are a daughter, Robin of Readington Township, N.J., and three grandchildren. Memorial Services will be held on Saturday at 3 PM in Fellowship Hall at Fellowship Village, 8000 Fellowship Road, Basking Ridge, NJ. Arrangements under the direction of the HOLCOMBE-FISHER FUNERAL HOME, 147 Main St., Flemington, NJ. Private burial will be in New Hampshire this summer. Please visit www.holcombefisher.com for futher information or to send condolences.

   Joseph W. Anderson, born and raised on Grand Island, NY, of North Tonawanda, Saturday, February 12, 2005, husband of the late Frances (Galli) Anderson; brother of the late Gordon (Susan), George (Evelyn), Harry (Lavina) and Clarence Anderson, and sister, Grace (Maurice) Stanton; also surviving are several nieces and nephews. Friends may call Monday only from 2-4 and 7-8:30 p.m. at the WATTENGEL FUNERAL HOME, 307 Oliver St., North Tonawanda, NY followed by Funeral Services at 8:30 p.m.

   Raymond E. Hale, of Grand Island, NY, February 13, 2005, beloved son of Isabelle (nee Montero) Hale; brother of Dennis (Linda), Michael and Claude (Linda) Hale; uncle of Casey James Hale; dear beloved friend of Patricia and Crystal Robins. Friends received Wednesday 7-9 and Thursday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the GRECO FUNERAL HOME INC., 2909 Elmwood Ave., (near Sheridan Dr.), where Funeral Services will be held Friday morning at 8:30 and in St. Anthony of Padua Church at 9:30. Flowers gratefully declined. Ray was an accomplished blues guitarist, an avid outdoorsman, a retired employee of General Motors Tonawanda Plant and a member of the UAW.

   June J. (Heina) Kalinski, February 12, 2005, formerly of Riverside, wife of the late Walter S. Kalinski; mother of Dennis W. (Jean) Kalinski, Audrey P. (Richard) Lewinski, Virginia Melbourne and the late Wendy Kalinski; also survived by four grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews; sister of Sevarin (Fe) and Stephen (Linda) Hejna; predeceased by five brothers and sisters. Friends may call Tuesday only 2-4 PM followed by Funeral Services Tuesday at 4 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined.

   Viola (Dunn) Pitts, February 12, 2005, of Grand Island, beloved wife of the late Joseph Pitts; sister of Roxena Lavers; mother of Marilee (Donald) Morath and Marlena (Frank) Kuhn; grandmother of Bethany (Joseph) Lavern, Andrew and Paul Morath; aunt of Pamela (Joseph) Cala and Diana (Roger) Mosella. Friends may call Sunday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island where Funeral Services will be held Monday at 9 AM. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo. Mrs. Pitts was a member of Trinity U.M. Church, St. John's U.C.C. and the Order of Eastern Star.

   Joseph Michael D’Ingillo, February 11, 2005, of Grand Island, beloved son of Joseph and Colleen (Kelly) D'Ingillo; beloved brother of Cristine (John) Amtsberg, James (Judy) and Jonathan (Cheri) D'Ingillo; dear uncle of Michael, Matthew and Daniel Schnieder, Andrew, Sarah and Joey Michael D'Ingillo; great-uncle of Megan Tai and Harrison Michael Schnieder; Friends may call Monday 7-9 PM and Tuesday 2-4 and 7-8:30 PM followed by Funeral Services Tuesday at 8:30 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.


   Thomas E. Colley Jr., 52, of New Haven, NY, formerly of Grand Island and a member of the Grand Island High School Class of 1971, passed away on Thursday evening, February 3, 2005 in his home after a long, courageous battle with cancer. He is survived by his wife, Brenda who he is shown with at his 30th class reunion. He is also survived by stepdaughters, Michelle and Leanne; a son Thomas Edward III; his mother, Madelyn Colley of Oswego; three sisters, Toni Colley, Casey Ebert and Mary Caughey; and a brother, William Colley. He was the son of the late Thomas E. Colley Sr.
   Tom, who resided on Grand Island, NY from 1953 to 1975, was warehouse manager for Battery Research & Testing on County Route 1, Oswego, NY. Services will be held 1 p.m. February 12, 2005 at St. Mary's Star of the Sea Church, Mexico, NY. Arrangements by Nelson Funeral Home.

   Marjorie O. (Keller) Masters, 70, of Kenmore and formerly of Grand Island, Thursday, February 3, 2005 in Schofield Residence, Town of Tonawanda, after a long illness. She was the wife of the late Gene J. Masters; mother of Michael G. (Sharon) Masters of Amherst and Cynthia L. (Alan) Khreis of Dallas; grandmother of Jade, Jared, Shawn and Christopher Kennedy; daughter of the late Lyman and Olive (nee Proy) Keller; sister of Lyman Lee (Donna) Keller of Kenmore; also survived by nieces and nephews. Friends may call Monday, February 7, 2005 and Tuesday evenings February 8 only from 7-9 p.m. at JOHN O. ROTH FUNERAL HOME, INC., 25 William St. (between Morgan & Broad Streets) in the City of Tonawanda. Funeral Services will be held Wednesday, February 9 at 10 a.m. in Salem United Church of Christ, corner of Main and Morgan Streets, in the City of Tonawanda. Friends invited. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Town of Tonawanda. Mrs. Masters was born in Buffalo and grew up in the City of Tonawanda. A homemaker, she was a 1952 graduate of Tonawanda High School. From 1962 to 2001, she lived on Grand Island. She was the widow of Gene J. Masters, the well-known coach and athletic director at Grand Island High School, who died in 2001.

   Flora Arnst, 82, of North Tonawanda on Tuesday, February 1, 2005 at DeGraff Memorial Hospital after a brief illness. Mrs. Arnst was a member of Ascension R.C. Church. She was the owner of Budweys Supermarket in North Tonawanda. Wife of the late James Norman Budwey Sr and Edward L. Arnst; mother of the late Sally Vanthoff and sister of the late Angeline Pallotta and Josephine Maiolo; beloved mother of James N. Budwey Jr. of Medfield, Mass., Rodney S. Budwey and Frank S. Budwey both of North Tonawanda, Catherine (Alvin) Durgin of New Orleans, Jennifer (Terry) Schumacker of Wheatfield and Paula Lopez of North Tonawanda; loving sister of Rose (Norman) Dumais of Flagler Beach, Florida; grandmother of 20 grandchildren and 26 great grandchildren; also survived by several nieces and nephews. Friends received by the family on Thursday, February 3, 2005 and Friday, February 4th from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. at the BRUNNER FUNERAL HOME, 156 Robinson St. North Tonawanda where services will be held at 9 a.m. Saturday morning, February 5, 2005 followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at Ascension R.C. Church at 9:30 a.m. Entombment will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Town of Tonawanda. The family has requested that memorials be made to Ascension R.C. Church or Niagara Hospice Inc. A former Grand Island resident and longtime resident of North Tonawanda, Mrs. Arnst owned and operated Budwey's Supermarket in North Tonawanda for more than two decades. The former Flora Pallotta was the oldest of four girls and graduated at the top of her class in Ascension School. At age 13, she began her first job at Budwey's Market on Oliver Street to help support her family. At 16, she began working full time for James N. Budwey Sr., and they were married in 1940. After he died in 1952, she took over operation of his business, which then included three small markets and a hot dog stand. She affiliated with the Independent Grocers Association in the 1950s and expanded the store on Division Street three times before she retired in 1974. Mrs. Arnst supported many community organizations, often gave groceries to unemployed families and had clothing drives for the needy. She was a member of the Zonta Club, the Business and Professional Women and Ascension Catholic Church. The mother of six, she enjoyed Monopoly, blackjack and poker, betting on the Kentucky Derby and traveling throughout the United States in the family motor home. She married Edward L. Arnst in 1959. He died in 1996.

   Louise S. (Bricka) Ackerman, 74, of Grand Island, died of congestive heart failure Sunday, January 30, 2005 in Buffalo General Hospital She was the beloved wife of 54 years of Allen W. Ackerman; mother of Ann (Jeffrey) Stewart of Unionville, Nancy (Michael) Maloney of Buffalo, Allen P. and Thomas (Elizabeth) Ackerman, both of Kenmore; grandmother of Sarah Stewart, Katherine and Grace Ackerman; sister of Betty (Willard) Goodwin of Louisville, Kentucky and the late Jean Bricka; daughter of the late Charles and Jeanetta Bricka; also survived by several nieces and nephews. Friends received Tuesday 1-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the GRECO FUNERAL HOME, INC., 2909 Elmwood Ave. (near Sheridan Dr.). A Memorial Service will be held at St. Timothy Lutheran Church, 1453 Staley Rd., Grand Island, Wednesday, February 2, 2005 at 10:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The American Heart Assn. Born Louise Bricka in Buffalo, she graduated from Lafayette High School and went to college at age 16. She graduated from Buffalo State College with a bachelor's degree in education in 1950. Mrs. Ackerman began her career by student teaching in a one-room schoolhouse in Akron. From 1950 until the mid-1960s, she was an elementary teacher in the Williamsville school district. Her expertise was in special education after earning her master's degree in education at Buffalo State in 1968. The family moved to Olean, where Mrs. Ackerman taught first grade and became one of the first Head Start teachers. She taught in Utica from 1973 until 1975 and then returned to the Williamsville schools. She then moved to the Grand Island school district, where she retired from Huth Road Elementary School in 1986. She was a member of the New York State Teachers Association, the Home Bureau of Grand Island and St. Timothy Lutheran Church. She was a volunteer for the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra.

   Patrick J. Coughlin, 60, died Wednesday, January 26, 2005 in Millard Fillmore Hospital after a short illness. Beloved husband of the late Sue (Stinchfield) who died in 2005. Dear father of Kristin M. of Stow, Ohio and Joseph W. (Heather) Coughlin of Akron, Ohio; beloved son of Catherine (late William) Coughlin; dear brother of Donna (late John) Coughlin-Soria of Englewood, N.J., Paul (Pat) of Grand Island, Mary Ann Coughlin Ann of Hackensack, N.J., Margaret (James) Sontag of Grand Island, William III (Diane) of Grand Island and the late Joseph Coughlin; survived by nieces and nephews; sister-in-law of Sally Stinchfield. Friends may call at the JAMES E. GRACE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 335 Ontario St., Saturday 5-7 PM and Sunday 2-4 PM. No visitation Sunday evening. Friends may gather in St. Stephens Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, Monday at 11 a.m. for a Mass of Christian Burial. Flowers gratefully declined. Burial will be in St. Stephen's Cemetery. Memorials to St. Lukes Mission of Mercy, 325 Walden Ave., Buffalo 14211. He was born in Lackawanna and raised in the Riverside neighborhood. He graduated from Cardinal Dougherty High School and, in 1967, from the General Motors Institute in Michigan. Coughlin lived in a number of locations during a 30-year career as an engineer for General Electric Corp., where he held several management positions. He returned to the Buffalo area in 2000 after retiring. He was a member of Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity; the Knights of Columbus, Kenmore Council; and various professional organizations. He enjoyed reading, especially history, coaching youth hockey and spending time with family. He was known for eating breakfast every morning at McMahon's Restaurant and for his interest in Republican politics.


   MaryLou Lunsford, 69, of Grand Island, passed away peacefully Wednesday, January 26, 2005 in Hospice Buffalo, Cheektowaga. Born MaryLou Rotella, she was educated at the Gaskill School and St. Mary’s of the Cataracts School in Niagara Falls. As a young mother, she was a charter member of the Niagara Falls Mothers Club. After moving to Grand Island in 1962 with her late husband, Jack, to raise her growing family, she worked at Hooker Chemical and Riverwood Health Facility before joining the Grand Island Central School District as a bus attendant in 1989. Her daily bus work brought great joy to her and to the children, including many with special needs, under her charge. Her many friends at the bus garage enjoyed the fun-filled and memorable social events she frequently organized.
   She enjoyed singing as a member of the Carousel City Chorus of the “Sweet Adelines” and was a devout member of St. Stephen Church, where she was an early member of the Home School Association and the costume director for many “Parish Players” stage productions. Her devotion to the Blessed Mother led her to membership in the Magnificat group.
   She is survived and lovingly remembered by her brothers, Richard (Colleen) Rotella, of South Carolina and Toby Rotella of Florida, her two sons, Mark (Ginny) and Tim (Kitty), both of North Carolina, and her four daughters, Jacquie Shoemaker of Arizona, Lisa (Paul) Stoddard and Karen (David) Conboy, both of Grand Island, and Janice (Dave) Ayers of Ohio. She was also the beloved “Nanny” to 24 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; the loving aunt of numerous nieces and nephews; and a dear friend to many. She was the sister of the late Dominic and Carm Rotella.
   Friends may call Saturday, January 29th from 6-9 p.m. and Sunday from 1-4 p.m. and 6-9 p.m. at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd. Grand Island. A mass of Christian Burial offered at 10 a.m. Monday in St. Stephen Roman Catholic Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island followed by internment in St. Stephen Church Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the MaryLou Lunsford Memorial fund, C/O Karen Conboy, 132 Park Place, Grand Island, NY 14072.




Robert J. Latronica, January 25, 2005. Son of the late Lucia E. and Rocco John Latronica; beloved husband of 35 years of Teri; brother of Richard (Shirley), Raymond (Crystal), Thomas, Carol and Donna (Randy) Gugino. Raised on Grand Island, NY. Bob graduated from Bishop Duffy H.S. in 1965 and moved to Chicago. He lived in Tampa, FL for the past 13 years. Friends will be received at BLOUNT CURRY FUNERAL HOME, West Tampa, FL on Friday from 6-9 PM. A celebration of his life will occur at 2:00 PM Saturday at St. Mark's the Evangelist Church, Tampa.




James E. Rossney, 80, died Wednesday, January 26, 2005 in the Center for Hospice and Palliative Care, Cheektowaga, after a long illness. He was the beloved husband of the late LaVerne (MacArthur) Rossney; dear father of Candace (James) Broman of Grand Island and the late Kevin J. Rossney; grandfather of James (Jill) Jones, Elizabeth (Jamison) Reagan and Julia Broman; great-grandfather of Tess Marianna Jones; brother of the late Betty Hoefert; brother-in-law of Carl Hoefert; also survived by nieces and nephews. Flowers declined. Friends are welcome to attend a Memorial Service at Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, 7 p.m. Friday, January 28, 2005. Arrangements by DIETRICH FUNERAL HOME INC. Born in Ebenezer, Mr. Rossney graduated from Canisius College. A World War II veteran and prisoner of war, Mr. Rossney served as a staff sergeant in the U.S. Army Air Force during World War I. In 1944, he was an aerial gunner on a B-24 Liberator, when the plane lost two engines, forcing the crew to parachute over southern Hungary near Yugoslavia. For about three weeks, he was held in a Budapest prison. Then, he and other members of the crew were transferred to Stalag Luft 4, a POW camp in Poland. In 1945, he and other American and British POWs were marched across Northern Germany to be used as bargaining chips on the Western Front. During the march, Mr. Rossney and two fellow POWs escaped and reached British Army lines with the assistance of a Russian prisoner/farm laborer, who provided food and directions. After the British verified their identities, the three escapees were flown to a U.S. Army hospital in Oxford, England, about a month before VE Day on May 7, 1945. Mr. Rossney was awarded the Air Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster and two Bronze Stars. He retired in 1990 as an accountant for Jim Murphy Pontiac. He also was a member of the Rotary Club of Kenmore/Tonawanda.




Ronald N. Franke
A memorial service for Ronald N. Franke, retired principal of Grand Island (Veronica E. Connor) Middle School, was held last Thursday in Sarasota, Florida. Mr. Franke, 72, died Jan. 16, 2005 in his Sarasota home after a short illness. Born in Buffalo, he graduated from Seneca Vocational High School and served in the Army Signal Corps during the Korean War. He returned to earn a bachelor's degree from what was then Buffalo State Teachers College and a master's degree in education from the University at Buffalo. He began teaching as an industrial arts instructor at Hamburg High School in 1956 and joined the Grand Island schools in 1963 as a guidance counselor. He was named principal of the middle school in 1974, and retired in 1994. An Amherst resident for many years, he maintained a winter home in Sarasota before moving there six years ago. Survivors include his wife of 50 years, the former Janet Schusterbauer; three sons, Robert (Sabrina) of Buffalo, David (Elizabeth) of Philadelphia and John (Kim) of Atlanta; and six grandchildren. Mr. Franke was the brother of late Arthur. In lieu of flowers, Memorials to Hospice of Southwest Florida, 5595 Rand Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34238.




Dorothy Jill Farquharson January 24, 2005 of Grand Island, wife of the late Rex C. Farquharson; mother of Jay C. (Dawn) of Grand Island; and Jon M. Farquharson of Philadelphia; grandmother of Kaitlyn; sister of the late Jean Walters, Jane Howe and Marion Anderson; daughter of the late Gus and Margaret Anderson. Friends may call Thursday only 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 White Haven Rd. Grand Island. Memorials may be made to St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church, Grand Island where funeral services will be held Friday at 10 AM.




Raymond L. Deeter January 23, 2005 formerly of Grand Island, beloved husband of the late Dorothy (Dodge) Deeter; father of Linda Rae (Louis) Tufillaro; predeceased by two brothers and three sisters; survived by four sisters-in-law, two brothers-in-law and several nieces and nephews. Mr. Deeter was a veteran of WW II. The family will hold a private mass at a later Date. His ashes will be returned to his home town in Pennsylvania.




Carmela McKnight Mondo (nee Bellanca), 95, of Williamsville, former Grand Island resident died recently at Elderwood at Bassett Park. She was predeceased by her husbands, J. Robert McKnight and Charles Mondo; four sisters and one brother. Survivors include a daughter, Joanne M. (Richard) Hartman of Haines City, Florida (formerly of Grand Island); a son, Robert (June) McKnight of Williamsville; five grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. Memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association at 1-800-275-0582.




John Patrick Harrison, 54, an artist and musician, passed away on Sunday, December 26, 2004. He was born in Niagara Falls, raised on Grand Island and living in California. A popular creator, he was well known for his etchings, metalwork and lithographs and was also an accomplished musician and dedicated family man. John was predeceased by his mother, Catherine. He was the son of John Harrison, husband of Betty and father of Ian and Ross Harrison. He is also survived by a brother, Bill; a sister, Barbara; and an extended family. Services were held at the Lake Elsinore Cultural Center in California on January 3, 2005. Arrangements by McWane Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, his family would appreciate donations made in his name to the Crohn's Foundation at www.ccfa.org/donate/memorials or to the Fine Art for Great Kids Scholarship Fund (C/o Nancy Andrzejczak, 545 Channey St., Lake Elsinore, California 92530.




Sterling T. Haslam, 78, a Dunlop Tire Co. retiree, motel owner and veteran of World War II, died Saturday, January 22, 2005 in Kenmore Mercy Hospital after a lengthy illness. A native of Bangor, Maine, Mr. Haslam served in the Army from 1945 to 1949, based in the Philippines and Europe. He lived on Grand Island since 1954. He worked for Dunlop for more than 30 years, retiring in 1976. Mr. Haslam was part owner of the Cinderella Motel on Grand Island and previously owned the Chateau Motor Lodge, also on Grand Island. He was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church, the Grand Island Golden Age Club and Charles N. DeGlopper Post 9249, Veterans of Foreign Wars. Mr. Haslam enjoyed bowling and was a league bowler with his senior citizens group. He was the husband of Ingeborg Oehrl Haslam and married for 50 years; brother of Warren Haslam of Lewiston, Maine; son of the late Alfonzo and Edith Haslam. Friends may call from 3-5 p.m. Monday, January 24, 2005 and Tuesday, January 25 at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island where funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Wednesday, January 26. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Trinity United Methodist Church, Grand Island. Burial will be in Whitehaven Cemetery, Grand Island.




George Eugene Fuhrman, January 18, 2005 unexpectedly Tuesday in his Grand Island home. Father of Denise Ann of Grand Island and Nicole Marie Fuhrman of Niagara Falls; son of Nancy G. Fuhrman of Erie, and the late Eugene George Fuhrman; brother of William J., Christopher J., and John P. all of Erie, Eugene S. Fuhrman of Seattle and Jean Anne Carter of Erie; also survived by six cousins, four nieces, five nephews, one great-nephew and two great-nieces. Friends may call Thursday 7-9 and Friday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday at 9:30 AM at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island. Burial will be in Whitehaven Cemetery, Grand Island. Mr. Fuhrman was was a floor supervisor at the Seneca Niagara. The Erie, Pa., native moved to Grand Island in the early 1980s to take a job with an electronics company. He enjoyed racquetball, golf, playing cards and vacationing. He was a former Boy Scout and a member of many social clubs.




Andrew Pacioni, 71, a retired Buffalo State College professor, died Wednesday, January 19, 2005 in Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center after a short illness. Husband of Sarah Pacioni; father of Judith (Rick) Raepple of Grand Island, Daniel (Paulette) of Phoenix, Gary (Susan) of Lewiston, Kenneth (Lillian) of Portland, Ore. and Thomas (Claudine) Pacioni; grandfather of Jason, Erica and Alexis Raepple, Ty, Andalyn, Joshua, Samantha, Giacomo, Galileo, Zachary and Alexandria Pacioni; brother of Louis (Elizabeth), Alfred and Edward (Sharon) Pacioni, all of Detroit. Friends may call Thursday, January 20, 2005 from 7-9 p.m. and Friday, January 21 from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11 a.m. Saturday, January 22 at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island. Burial will be in St. Stephen's Cemetery. Mr. Pacioni, who was born on August 30, 1933 in Detroit, MI, graduated with a bachelor's degree and master's degree in special education from Eastern Michigan University. He worked at the Hawthorn Center, an education center in Detroit, before moving to Grand Island. Mr. Pacioni was an Associate Professor of Special Education at State University College at Buffalo for over 30 years retiring in 1997. While at Buffalo State, he secured grant funds to establish a summer-long education program that has run since 1984. He was a private first class in the U.S. Army, serving in the Korean War. Mr. Pacioni was an usher and member of the Holy Name Society of St. Stephen's Catholic Church in Grand Island. He won a seniors New York State racquetball tournament in Central New York about four years ago.




John David Stark, 20, of Grand Island, on Monday, January 17, 2005. Beloved son of Paul Stark of the Town of Tonawanda, and Ericka French-Seibold of Grand Island; brother of Michael Paul Stark of Redding, California; grandson of Joseph and Dorothy Stark of Buffalo. Friends are invited to attend a memorial service Thursday, January 20, 2005 at 1:30 p.m. at the Kenmore Alliance Church, 175 Bonnett Ave., City of Tonawanda, NY. Arrangements by SMITH-WEISMANTEL FUNERAL HOME INC. A sports enthusiast and animal lover, John worked at the Grand Island Small Animal Hospital on Whitehaven Road. He was killed early Monday afternoon in a two-vehicle accident on Route 219 in Cattaraugus County during a heavy lake-effect snowstorm while riding with a friend to Holiday Valley where they were to go snowboarding. His father described him as an enthusiast in all kinds of activities. "His latest craze was snowboarding," his father said. "He'd get hold of something - skateboarding, stunt bikes, snowboarding or motorcycles - and he'd jump into it with both feet." John grew up in the Town of Tonawanda and Grand Island and attended Grand Island schools. He was interested in pursuing his education, possibly in the field of psychology. Earlier, he had been active in the youth groups at Kenmore Alliance Church and Whitehaven Road Baptist Church.




Todd Shea, January 9, 2005, of Grand Island, son of Daniel and Shauna Shea; brother of Ryan, Timothy and Megan Shea; grandson of Arthur and the late Emily Davis, Jack and Irma Shea. Private services were held at the convenience of the family.




James McIntyre Sutherland, 80, died January 10, 2005 in his Grand Island home after a brief illness. Beloved husband of 59 years of the former Rose Marie Schiffke; father of Scott (Gail) Sutherland of Grand Island, and twins Anne (Kenneth) Jaffe of Boulder, CO and Lynne Bolles of Kenmore; grandfather of Ian, Julia, Jeremy, David, Daniel, Michael and Ryan; brother of Effie Jane Logan of Grand Island. Friends may call Wednesday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the LESTER H. WEDEKINDT INC. FUNERAL HOME, 3290 Delaware Ave. Friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life in Kenmore Presbyterian Church, 2771 Delaware Ave. at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, January 27, 2005. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Kenmore Rotary Club Fund. Born in Buffalo, Mr. Sutherland graduated from Kenmore High School in 1942 and attended Duke University. During World War II, he served stateside as a Navy fighter pilot. After the war, Mr. Sutherland joined the family business, Sutherland Stationery & Printing Co., in Kenmore and served as president, retiring in 1990. He was a member of the Rotary Club of Kenmore for more than 51 years and received the Paul Harris Award. He was a past president of the Kenmore Merchants Association and was a volunteer driver for the American Cancer Society. Mr. Sutherland was an elder at Kenmore Presbyterian Church, where he was a member for more than 70 years.




Louis W. Taylor, longtime owner of a popular Niagara Falls restaurant, died Saturday, January 8, 2005 in Mount St. Mary's Hospital, Lewiston, after a brief illness. He was 73. Mr. Taylor, a Grand Island resident, was born in Buffalo and graduated from St. Francis High School. He served in the Army in West Germany from 1953 to 1955. After leaving the Army, Mr. Taylor returned to Buffalo and worked in the family business, Taylor's Dairy, in the city's Black Rock section. He moved to Grand Island in 1959. In 1971, Mr. Taylor bought Pete's Market House on Pine Avenue in Niagara Falls and operated it for more than 30 years. It remains in his family's control. Mr. Taylor was a member of Post 1041, American Legion, in Buffalo. He received an award at a testimonial dinner in Niagara Falls in 1986. He enjoyed woodworking and fishing, especially angling for salmon in northern Canada. Surviving are his wife of 47 years, the former Marie C. Zoladz; four daughters, Deborah A. Spencer, Lisa A. Rafe, Donna M. and Amy Lou, all of Grand Island; a son, David W. (Cynthia Cutonilli) of Nashville, Tenn.; a sister, Norma M. Wedlake of the Town of Tonawanda; and four grandchildren, James L. Spencer, Joseph L. Rafe, Louis M. Rafe, and Christina M. Anderson. He is also survived by nieces Suzanne (Svien) Hagen, Paula Cronin; his brother-in-law, Stephen R. Zoladz and several great-nieces and great-nephews. Mr. Taylor was predeceased by a sister, the late Elayne J. Taylor. Friends may call on Tuesday, January 11, 2005 from 3-8 p.m. in M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel, 2730 Military Road, Town of Niagara where services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, January 12th. Entombment with military honors will be in St. Stanislaus Cemetery, Cheektowaga. Flowers declined, memorials to Stella Niagara Educational Park, 4421 Lower River Rd, Stella Niagara, NY 14144.




Richard T. Grotz, January 6, 2005, of Niagara Falls, formerly of Grand Island, son of the late Truman and Maimie Grotz; brother of Donna (Donald) McQuade, Randall Grotz, Timothy (Mary) Grotz and Elizabeth McDonnell; also survived by several nieces and nephews. Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. Memorials may be made to The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.




Lydia (Kerber) Tawil, January 5, 2005 of Grand Island, wife of the late Assad Tawil; sister of the late Maria Molnar and Henry Kerber; aunt of Sig Molnar, Maria Kleesz, Edith Brkitsch and Monika Lehmann. Friends may call Saturday, 10-11 AM followed by funeral services Saturday at 11 AM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Whitehaven Road Baptist Church.




Joann M. Bindert, 42, of Port Richey, FL, died Saturday, January 1, 2005 at Regional Medical Center, Bayonet Point. Born in Lackawanna, NY, she moved to Florida seven years ago from Grand Island, NY. She was a dental technician and was Catholic. She is survived by her husband of five years, Leonard; her parents, Robert and Elizabeth Motak, Port Richey; 1 brother, Robert L. and his wife Donna, Grand Island, NY; one sister, Sheryl Bice, New Port Richey, and one nephew Michael R. Bice. Arrangements by FAUPEL FUNERAL HOME.




Sharon R. (Pearson) Kubik, January 1, 2005, formerly of Grand Island, mother of Benjamin Kubik; daughter of Thomas and Mary (Zahm) Kuczynski; sister of Alan (Kim) Pearson, Lisa (Michael) Nice, Paul Pearson, Kenneth (late Rhonda) Pearson, Barbara DiMartino and the late Adrian Pearson (survived by wife, Vera); dear friend of Terry Loesch; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Monday only 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Private Services will be held at the convenience of the family.

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