Obituaries

Posted December 01 2020

Page Sponsor

Posted June 24 2024 Margaret B. “Marg” Skellen

KENDALL – Margaret B. “Marg” Skellen, age 93, passed away June 22, 2024 after a brief illness surrounded by her loving family. She was born November 11, 1930 in Kendall to the late Menzo and Mae Butler and was a lifelong resident of the area.

She married her high school sweetheart, William Skellen in 1949 and they farmed together for the next 63 years while raising their five children. Margaret loved sewing, garage sales, baking, crafts, gardening and playing cards with her family.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband William in 2013, siblings Harry Butler and Gloria Prest.

Margaret is survived by her children, Mary (Ray) Lord of FL, Marcia Dunn of Albion, Bill (Libby Hall) Skellen of Holley, Tina Skellen of Kent, Betty (Eric) Weatherbee of Clarendon; grandchildren, Amber (Abe Gonzales) Dunn of Albion, Tracy Lord & Laura (Jonathan) Lord-Blackwell of FL, Megan Weatherbee of Holley, Travis Weatherbee of Auburn, three great grandchildren, Dylan, Cody and Charlie, two step grandchildren, Mike & Jen; three step great grandchildren, Cameron, Mackenzie, & Harrison.

There will be no calling hours as per Margaret’s wishes. A graveside service for both Will and Marg will be held in Greenwood Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Memorial contributions in Margaret’s name may be made to Mercy Flight.

Margaret’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home of Holley, NY.

To share a special memory of Margaret, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Posted June 24 2024 Margaret (Hart) (VanderVen) Morse

CLARENDON – Margaret (Hart) (VanderVen) Morse, passed away June 21, 2024 following a brief illness and surrounded by her family.

She was born October 1, 1941 in North Chili and drove school bus for over 32 years for the Holley Central School System.  Margaret also worked at Wohler, DePhillips and Wegman’s grocery stores for several years.  She was a member of St. Mary’s RC Church in Holley for over 60 year and a member of the Clarendon Fire Company for over 17 years.  Mrs. Morse was predeceased by her parents: Bob and Loretta Hart, a sister: Bobbi Statt, her husband LeRoy Morse, a grandson in law: Zachery Pogel and a great grandson: Declan Watt.

She is survived by her children: Robert (Barbara) VanderVen, Mary (Todd) Knight, John (Michelle) VanderVen, James (Laura) VanderVen, her sister: Helen (Jerome) Bischoping, her brother in law: Joe Statt, 30 grandchildren, 37 great grandchildren, many nieces, nephews and wonderful friends.

There will be no calling hours.  Family and friends are invited to attend Margaret’s Memorial Mass in St. Mary’s RC Church-Holley, (note the date) FRIDAY JULY 5, 2024 beginning at 1 pm.  A celebration of her life will immediately follow her Mass and will be held at the Clarendon Firehall.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Clarendon Fire Company, P.O. Box P.O. Box 136, Clarendon, NY, 14429.  Margaret’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home of Holley. To share a special memory of Margaret, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com

Posted June 21 2024 Robert J. Wolfe

ROCHESTER – Robert J. Wolfe, 90, of Rochester, formerly of Medina and Dunkirk, passed away Sunday evening, June 16, 2024 at the Park Ridge Nursing Home in Rochester, NY. Born on April 30, 1934 in Dunkirk, son of the late Henry and Martha (Dekanski) Wolfe.

After graduating from Dunkirk High School in 1952, he pursued his academic aspirations at Fredonia State University, where he obtained a bachelor’s degree. He went on to attend Syracuse University, where he earned a master’s degree in Library Sciences. Robert’s career flourished as he worked in various school districts before settling into a long and fulfilling tenure at Pembroke Central School District from 1966 until his retirement in 1991.

In addition to his successful career, Robert served in the US Army from 1956 to 1958.

Bobby would also work as an usher at Shea’s Theater and Studio Arena in Buffalo and Topaz Theater of Performing Arts in Medina.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Robert was known for his warm personality and easy-going nature. An animal lover at heart, he found joy in the companionship of his canine friend, Copper. Robert had a deep appreciation for music, particularly classical and opera genres, and enjoyed spending time reading and traveling. He often escaped the winters by traveling to South Carolina to live with his sister Martha, where they cherished memories together and time with his nieces and nephews.

One of Robert’s proudest achievements was being selected as the librarian for the World’s Fair in 1964. This opportunity showcased his expertise and passion for literature on a global stage, leaving an indelible mark on his legacy.

Bobby is survived by his sister Martha (James) Poland and brother Raymond H. (Theresa) Wolfe; nieces and nephews Ruth (Jack) Phillips, Judy Wolfe, Raymond R. Wolfe, James Wolfe, Tricia Poland, Laurie (Bruce) Torrence, Amy (Max) Buot, Richard Poland and Patrick Poland. Also survived by many great nieces and nephews.

Preceding Robert are his parents Henry J. and Martha (Dekanski) Wolfe.

Relatives and friends are welcome to attend calling hours on Sunday, June 23, from 2-4 p.m. & 6-8 p.m. at McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home in Dunkirk. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, June 24, 2024 at 10 a.m. at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Roman Catholic Church. Interment in St. Mary’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Dunkirk Public Library, 536 Central Ave., Dunkirk, NY 14048.

Posted June 21 2024 Mabel E. Tiberio

She was predeceased by her husband, Dominic “Zugo” Tiberio; and children, Janet Levey, Dennis “Butch” Tiberio and Mark Tiberio.

She is survived by her loving children, Kristi Lynn Tiberio, Donald (Moudka) Tiberio, Shelia (Wayne) Shults-Fox and Toni (Mike) Barber; grandchildren, Dominic, Gina, Leslie, Michael, Jenna, Brett, Michelle, Lisa, Tammy, Ethan, Evan, Caleb, Cody, David and Ashey; daughters-in-law, Cheryll (Mark) of Fla. and Cheryl (Butch) of Ga.; several great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

There are no prior calling hours. Mabel’s graveside service will be held on Tuesday June 25, at 9 a.m. at Hillside Cemetery in Holley.

Mable’s arrangements have been entrusted to Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 16650 State Route 31, Holley.

To share a special memory of Mabel, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Posted June 21 2024 Shirlon G. Harris

ALBION – Shirlon G. Harris went home to be with her Lord on June 18, 2024 at Strong Memorial Hospital.

She was born October 14, 1951 in Florida to the late Charles and Henri Mae (Jones) Harris.

Shirlon worked many jobs in her life and most recently helped working with J&S Construction, something she really enjoyed. She also loved tending to her flowers around the house.

Shirlon is survived by her loving partner of 10 years, John Sample, as well as several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Shirlon’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home on Thursday June 27th from 5 to 6 p.m. where a very brief service will be held at 6 p.m. Interment will be held Friday at Mt. Albion Cemetery at 10 a.m.

Posted June 20 2024 Burton W. “Bill” Nagel

MIDDLEPORT – Burton W. “Bill” Nagel, age 92, died June 20, 2024 in the New York State Veterans Home-Batavia.

He was born June 7, 1932 in Buffalo to Burton and Vivian (McHenry) Nagel and had lived in this area since 1991.

Bill spent 32 years as a Buffalo Police Officer and was a member of the Gasport Lodge F&AM. He loved the outdoors, enjoyed hunting, was a big animal lover and after his retirement, had described his perfect day as, “…sitting on my porch watching the birds with a cold beer and enjoying a good cigar!”

Mr. Nagel was predeceased by his wife Valmay and his beloved dog, “Shadow.”

He was the dear father of William (Clare Schultz) Nagel, Lorie Nagel, Judith Smithers, Karen Peterson of Boston; as well as his beloved grandfather of Katie, Julie, Amanda, Nick, Christian, Kortney and Justin.

The family will receive friends at the Bates, Wallace & Heath Funeral Home, 38 State Street-Middleport, on Sunday, June 30, from 1 to 3 p.m. His funeral service and interment will be held privately at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity or organization of your choice.

To share a special memory of Bill, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Posted June 19 2024 Raymond S. Cogovan

MEDINA – Raymond S. Cogovan, 68, of Medina, NY, entered into rest on Sunday, June 16, 2024, at the Medina Memorial Hospital.

He was born on June 13, 1956, in Medina, NY, the son of the late Kenneth and Dorinne (Luxon) Prest.

Raymond graduated from Medina High School in 1974 and worked for 47 years as a union sheet metal worker at Snappy of Medina. He was a member of the First Baptist Church and enjoyed the outdoors, especially hunting, fishing, and riding his bike. He was past president of the Junior Wilsons Horseshoe League. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.

Raymond’s memory will be cherished by his loving wife of 23 years, Kimberly; and his children, Jason (Mindy) Cogovan, Robert Cogovan, all of Medina, NY, and Colleen Cogovan of Florida.

His legacy continues through his seven grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his four siblings, Judy (Mike) Szulis, of Medina, Pamela (Gerry) Gray of Lockport, David (Tiffany) Cogovan of Pennsylvania, and Shawn (Michalene) Prest of Medina; an uncle, Don (Crystal) Luxon of Basom; an aunt, Beverly (Francis) Woodward Jr. of Medina and many nieces and nephews.

On Saturday, June 22, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the community will have the opportunity to gather at the First Baptist Church of Medina, 203 W. Center St., Medina, NY 14103, to pay their respects to Raymond. A funeral service, led by the Rev. Michael Stephenson, will be held at 2 p.m. The burial will be a private moment for the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Raymond’s name to Friends of Strong Memorial Hospital, 601 Elmwood Ave., Box 660, Rochester, NY 14642. Click here for online information.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St. Medina, NY 14103. Please light a candle or share a memory of Raymond at www.bogantuttlefunerals.com.

Posted June 18 2024 Thomas M Kirby

ALBION – It is with great sadness and heavy hearts, we announce that on June 16, 2024 ,Thomas M Kirby passed away peacefully, surrounded by the people he loved.

Tom was born Feb. 5, 1949, to the late Robert and Jean Kirby.

He is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Jackie Kirby; daughters Erin Ward, Karen Narburgh (Darren Roberts) and Kailee Ward; siblings James (Julie) Kirby, Robin (Norris) Klump, Patty Macey and Donald Kirby, as well as many loving nieces, nephews, sister in laws and friends. Sadly, Tom was predeceased by sister, Barbara (John) Kimmerly and mother-in-law Judith Grabowski.

Born into a farming family, Tom was raised and taught by the best. He worked hard from a young age and after graduating high school he went on many adventures, including college, traveling abroad with the Peace Corps, cross country trips, and Woodstock. Tom then returned to Albion to start his life as it began, as a farmer. Tom had two sons, Joshua and Patrick, before meeting the love of his life, Jackie. He spent his years working his farm and together they built a life they loved. He was a devoted husband, father and cherished friend.

Tom had four grandchildren. Maci, Jaxson, Logan and Tripp and in those grandchildren, he found his greatest purpose in life. From traveling hundreds of miles for his Grasshoppers (Maci) rodeos, to endless ball games, dance recitals, and pizza parties. He lived for and loved every minute spent being their “Gee”.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, June 19, from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 21 West Ave. Albion. A Catholic Mass will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, June 20, at Holy Family Parish, 106 South Main St., Albion. A luncheon will follow at the Carlton Rec Hall, 1853 Oak Orchard Road, where all friends and family are encouraged to attend.

To share a special memory of Tom, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Posted June 17 2024 Elroy “Red” D. Powley

NIAGARA – Elroy “Red” D. Powley passed away June 15, 2024 under the care of a great group of care aids & Niagara Hospice and his loving family. Born on September 3, 1929 in Ridgeway, NY he was the son of the late Elroy William Powley and Ruthe (Sheppard) Powley-Oliver. He proudly served our country in the United States Army during the Korean War and as an Army Reservist, he retired as a Major in 1983. Red was a machinist and Tool and Die maker Harrison Radiator for 41 Years retiring in 1995 as a Senior Manufacturing Engineer. He served as the 4th ward Alderman of Lockport and was Past President of the Fire Board for Lockport, Niagara County Legislator for the 15th district. Red was a 43 year member of the Olcott Yacht Club, 55 year member of the Masons and member of Red Jacket Lodge as a 33’ and was part of the Scottish Rite, Boy Scouts of America, Sea Explorers, UAW, VFW, American Legion, Shriners Club, John Henry Garden Club. Red was also the Master Mechanic for the water wheel at the Old Red Mill and enjoyed sailing, gardening, camping, but most of all he loved spending time with his family.

Red was predeceased by his wife Shirley (Breitsman) Powley, who passed away January 9, 2018 and brother Barry Powley. He is survived by his children Kent (Cathy) Powley, Reginald (Bonnie) Powley, Shellie (Daniel) Hanley, Brent (Connie) Powley; grandchildren Paige Phillips, Justin Powley, Ryan Hanley, Jillian Orr and Annaleha Confer; 8 great grandchildren.

Relatives and friends may call Wednesday June 19, 2024 from 4-7 PM in Prudden and Kandt Funeral Home 242 Genesee St. Lockport, NY where a funeral service will immediately follow at 7 PM. Interment in West Ridgeway Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations to Niagara Hospice 4675 Sunset Drive Lockport, NY 14094 would be appreciated. Online Condolences at www.pruddenandkandt.com.

Posted June 16 2024 Jeremy P. Smith

ALBION – Jeremy P. “Shoop” “Bubba” Smith, age 39, was taken away from us way to soon on June 15, 2024 at his home.  He was born November 12, 1984, in Albion, a son of Sharon Smith and the late James Smith and had lived in this area all of his life.

Jeremy enjoyed gardening, building things from scratch, and watching football.  But most importantly, Jeremy loved hanging with his beautiful girls and his dog Thor.

In addition to his father, he was predeceased by his maternal and paternal grandparents.

He is survived by his mother, Sharon; daughters, Paris (Austin Narburgh) Smith, Alexis, Taylor and Brae’lyn Smith; sisters, Amanda (Patrick Weis) Smith and Jamie (Marco) Valadez; nieces and nephews, Chloe, Dominic, Sean, Kylee and Antonio; great-nephew, Xavier, as well as several aunts and uncles.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, 21 W. Ave. Albion, on Saturday June 22nd from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. where his memorial service will be at 1 p.m. Memorials may be made to P.A.W.S, 3371 Gaines Basin Rd. Albion NY 14411 or American Cancer Society, 1120 S. Goodman St., Rochester NY 14620.

To share a memory of Jeremy, visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Posted June 14 2024 Sandra J. Gapa

LYNDONVILLE – Sandra J. “Sandy” Gapa, 64, of Lyndonville, NY, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, June 13, 2024.

She was born on July 1, 1959, in Medina, NY, the daughter of the late Albert and Joyce (Heideman) Houseman.

Sandy graduated from Lyndonville High School in 1977 and continued her education at the University of Buffalo, receiving a Bachelor’s Degree in social work. On July 18, 1987, she married Glen Gapa, and they raised four children together.

She was employed as a Supervisor with the Orleans County DSS for Child Protective Services and later for the NYS Office of Children and Family Services, from which she retired in 2018. Sandra attended the Grove United Methodist Church. She was active in sports, participated at all her children’s sporting events, and was a dance mom. She was very active in raising awareness for autism and breast cancer, being a cancer survivor. Sandra also had a warm spot in her heart for animals.

Sandy is survived by her husband of 36 years, Glen; four children, William, Nathanial, and Meghan Gapa, all of Lyndonville and Victoria (Jason) Hill of Leesburg, GA; four grandchildren, Elijah, Ellie, Addie and Luke; also surviving is a brother, Delane Houseman of Dublin, GA; several nieces and nephews and other extended family; also good friends, Roxane and Paul Mann of Medina, NY and their children, Kyle and Justin (Shan Morgan).

For those who wish to pay their respects, a visitation will be held on June 19 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 112 N. Main St. Lyndonville, NY 14098. The funeral service, a celebration of Sandra’s life, will take place at 11 a.m. on Thursday at the Grove United Methodist Church, 11004 W. Center St. Medina, NY, 14103. The service will be officiated by Pastor Paul Adell Sr. and will be followed by burial in the Lynhaven Cemetery, Lyndonville, NY. We invite you to join us in honoring Sandra’s memory and supporting her family during this time.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Sandy’s name to Heritage Christian Services, 130 John Muir Dr. Amherst, NY, 14228.

Please light a candle or share a memory of Sandy at www.bogantuttlefunerals.com.

Posted June 11 2024 Michael J. Lang

MEDINA – Michael J. Lang, age 51, of Medina, passed away on Sunday, June 9, 2024 at the Medina Memorial Hospital following a brief battle with cancer.

Born September 1, 1972 in Medina, he was a son of Gloria (Pritchard) Lang. Mike was an avid fisherman. He held his captain’s license in charter fishing. Mike was a crew member of Mister Sportfishing Charters out of Point Breeze and fished in tournaments on the Mister Squirrelly Sportfishing team.

Survivors include his two daughters, Jorgie Lang (Zacherie Ehrenreich) and Courtney Lang; granddaughter, Eleanor Ehrenreich; his mother, Gloria Lang; sister, Amy Lang; two nephews, Jacob Grier and Kaleb Hungerford; aunt, Cheryl Gavenda; cousin, Michelle (Tyler) Palmer and their son, Jack; close friends, Jonathan Forder, Steph Paris and Levi Forder; and the rest of the Mister Squirrelly’s Sportfishing family.

Mike was predeceased by his brother, Kenneth Lang in 2015.

A celebration of life gathering will be held on Friday, June 21, starting at 4 p.m. at the Junior Wilson’s Sportsman’s Club, 3875 Bates Rd., Medina. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made directly to the family to go towards the costs for his sportfishing team’s next fishing tournament. Contributions may be sent to 500 N. Academy St., Medina, NY 14103. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

Posted June 10 2024 MaryAnn (Dock) Salisbury

MaryAnn (Dock) Salisbury, 85, passed away peacefully at the Martin Linsin Residence on May 28, 2024.

She was born September 9, 1938 to Reno and Ella Dock in Detroit, Michigan. The family relocated to Albion in 1941. MaryAnn graduated from Albion High School in 1955, and attended the University of Rochester, graduating in 1959 with a Bachelor of Science degree, and her RN license. She married Donald Salisbury in 1960. MaryAnn worked at the former Arnold Gregory Memorial Hospital in Albion, and as the facility nurse at Owens Illinois in Brockport before returning to Arnold Gregory. In 1971, she became the Assistant Director of Nursing at the Orleans County nursing home. In 1984, MaryAnn began working at Orleans County Mental Health as the Director of Friendship House, a treatment program for individuals with chronic mental illness. She retired from the County in 1985, and took a part-time position as an administrative assistant at Genesee Orleans Ministry of Concern, while also working as a private care nurse.

MaryAnn was dedicated to the community, and volunteered for decades. She served on the Board of Directors for the former Little People’s Center, Head Start, and Community Action. She coordinated the volunteer scheduling for the annual Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign for many years, and volunteered as a bell ringer for that program, as well as volunteering for Hospice.

MaryAnn was predeceased by both of her parents, her husband, Donald, and special friend, George Lang.

She is survived by her children: Sean (Janet) Salisbury of Poughkeepsie, Jamie Salisbury of Albion, and Jed (Shayna) Salisbury of Rochester, as well as her 4 grandchildren: Annabella (Kyle Davey) Salisbury of Hamburg, Caitlin ( Erich Pflegl) Salisbury of Albion, Brendan Salisbury of Boston, and Jonathan Salisbury of New York City.

Calling hours and a celebration of MaryAnn’s life will be held at Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 21 West Ave. Albion, NY 14411 on June 21st starting at 2pm until 4pm with her celebration of life service held at 4pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in honor of MaryAnn to Community Action of Orleans and Genesee, or Hospice of Orleans.

To share a special memory of MaryAnn please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Posted June 08 2024 Marsha A. Snyder

MEDINA – Marsha A. Snyder, 75, of Medina, NY, entered into rest on Tuesday, March 26, 2024.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at the Mount Pleasant Cemetery, Salt Works Rd. West Shelby, NY, with the Rev. Erik Olsen officiating.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St. Medina, NY 14103. Please light a candle or share a memory of Marsha at www.bogantuttlefunerals.com.

Posted June 07 2024 Sidney E. Lovell, Jr.

MEDINA – Sidney E. Lovell, Jr., 81, of Medina, passed from this life to eternal life on Friday, June 7, 2024.

Sid was born in Williamsville, NY on June 10, 1942, a son of the late Sidney E. Lovell, Sr. and Marianne (Schickler) Lovell.

He was the eldest of seven children. Sid graduated from Williamsville High School in 1960. He then served in the US Army Reserves with the 85th Engineering Battalion out of Webster, and was honorably discharged in 1969.

Sid married the former Donna J. Munson on February 14, 1979. Sid held various managerial positions with General Electric, Bo-Mer Plastics and Fisher-Price Toys. Lastly, he worked as a crew leader in job development for Orleans County.

Sid was an exceptional athlete in football, baseball, track & field and wrestling. His greatest love was slow-pitch softball. Sid served as the Softball League Commissioner for Orleans County for over 25 years. There was not a day that went by that he could not be seen on the ball fields in Medina, preparing them for little leagues and men’s and women’s softball. His softball career culminated in his induction into the NYS USSSA Hall of Fame in March 2010.

Sid was predeceased by both parents and his brothers, Robert and Gary Lovell.

He is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Donna J. Lovell; daughter, Beth Goodman; sons, Sean (Sheila) Lovell and Scott (Sarah) Lovell; five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; sisters, Marianne Pearson, Jane (Cecil) John; and brothers, Howard Lovell and Brian (Terri) Lovell.

Calling hours will be held on his birthday, Monday, June 10 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. His funeral service will immediately follow at 12 p.m. and interment with full military honors will be in West Ridgeway Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org/wny. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

Posted June 06 2024 Rebecca Lynn “Becky” Bailey

ALBION – Rebecca Lynn “Becky” Bailey transitioned peacefully to her heavenly home with her family at her bedside after an unexpected and quickly progressing illness. As our mother, sister, and grandmother, she was taken far too early from us.

Becky’s creative mind and light spirit were shared with the world from her youngest years to her final days. She was a skilled seamstress and made many of her own fashionable clothes for herself and her sisters during high school, and for her children throughout their lives. She trained as a private airplane pilot in her younger years. She enjoyed interior decorating according to clever themes using unique items that she found while thrifting and bargain shopping.

She discovered jewelry-making of her own accessories, as well as beading eye-catching items for her daughter-in-law and granddaughter. She refinished furniture found on roadsides into household centerpieces and beautiful accent pieces. She fawned-over her beloved canine companions Pepper and Robbie. She was enraptured by murder-mysteries and true crime exposés. She would research, compare, and painstakingly select the best birthday and Christmas gifts. She loved to laugh, and to listen to the adventures of her children and grandchildren.

In recent years, her greatest affections were invested into her sons, her grandchildren, and her job that she did not want to retire from. Joshua (1979-) and Patrick (1983-) were honored to have Becky as their mother, especially because most of her middle years involved sacrifice and devotion to their care and support. Amelia (2015-) and Finn (2017-) received their grandmother’s admiration and interest whenever they met. And her workplace colleagues and friends at the Monroe-2 Orleans BOCES received her warmth, positivity, careful attention for work tasks and social connections alike.

Becky was predeceased by her eldest sister Carol E. (Bailey) Basinait (1950-1989), her mother Alice (Hucknall) Bailey (1927-2020), and father Carson H. Bailey (1925-2022). She is survived by her loving and devoted son Patrick Carson Kirby (1983-), who grieves deeply for the loss of his rock and pillar; her eldest son Dr. Joshua Aaron Kirby (1979-), his wife Dr. Rebecca Jane (Morgan) Kirby, and grandchildren Amelia Jane Kirby and Finn William Kirby; sisters Nancy (Eddie) Zielonko, Janice (John) Travis, and Molly (Craig) Tuohey; and many nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to recognize the undaunted professionalism, expertise, and compassion of the entire staff of the Batavia United Memorial Medical Center’s Intensive Care Unit. Without people like Marie, Kirstin, Taylor, Amanda, Austin, Mary Anne, Thomas, and many other nurses, doctors, and specialists who provided round-the-clock never-give-up intensive medical care in the face of long odds, Becky would have had far less of a chance at life.

Posted June 05 2024 Thomas W. Hockenberry, III

ALBION/ROCHESTER – Thomas W. Hockenberry, III passed away on June 3,2024 at the age of 98. Tom was born in Wilkinsburg, PA to Thomas W. Hockenberry, Il and Mary Rice Hockenberry.

Proudly served in the U.S. Navy from 1943-1946 in the amphibious forces in the Pacific. He retired from Eastman Kodak in 1989 and was the photographer for his wife’s seventeen books featuring vintage teddy bears and animals. He and Dee traveled the world together and visited over 64 countries. He was a skilled carpenter and model ship builder.

Tom was predeceased by his parents; wife Dee of seventy years; son-in-law Jerry Fasano; brother Charles and sister-in-law Cathy Hockenberry; and brother James Hockenberry. Survived by his son Eric; daughter Candace; sister-in-law Joann Hockenberry; niece and nephew Kathi and Jerry Hartgrove; several cousins; and other nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to PAWS Animal Shelter (3371

Gaines Basin Road, Albion, NY 14411) in his name. There will be no calling hours and the interment will be at the convenience of the family. www.NewComerRochester.com

Posted June 05 2024 Thomas Vosteen

IOWA CITY – Thomas Vosteen, 80, of Iowa City, passed away peacefully with family by his side on May 30, 2024. Born on February 7, 1944, in Buffalo, New York, to B. Earle and Mary (Sinclair) Vosteen, Tom was destined for a life filled with French flair and a lot of laughs.

Tom’s journey began at Medina High School in Medina, New York. From there, he moved on to Dartmouth College, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in French. Not one to stop there, Tom collected a Master’s Degree in French from Middlebury College, another Master’s in French and Education from the University of Iowa, and ultimately, a Ph.D. in French from the University of Iowa. Clearly, Tom believed you could never have too many degrees—or too much French.

A lifelong educator, Tom taught French with passion and humor, retiring as a Professor Emeritus from Eastern Michigan University. His students undoubtedly left his classes knowing French and, more importantly, knowing how to laugh at life.

On February 10, 1990, Tom married Michele Favre in Iowa City. They made their home in Ann Arbor, Michigan, before they settled back in Iowa City, after retirement.

Tom leaves behind his loving wife, Michele; stepdaughter, Sandrine (John) Gabriel; and grandchildren: Jackson, Katherine, and Sophie Gabriel. He also leaves his “sister” and lifelong friend, Peggy Hart Nelson, and nephews Bob, Bill and Jim Vosteen. Preceding him in this great journey were his brothers, Robert Vosteen and The Reverend J. Peter Vosteen.

In line with Tom’s laid-back and loving nature, cremation has been accorded, and a celebration of his life will be held at a later date. Private interment will take place in Medina, New York.

Tom was a loving husband, grandfather, and friend who loved to laugh and share joy. He was quoted in his later years saying, “Being alive is about loving people. Without love, what do you have?” It’s clear that Tom lived his life by these words, leaving behind a legacy of love and laughter.

So raise a glass, share a laugh, and remember Tom as the joyful, witty, and loving man he was. Cheers to a life well-lived, Tom!

Posted June 05 2024 James Henchen

HOLLEY – James Henchen, 64, passed away June 4, 2024, following a brief illness.  Jim was a graduate of Spencerport High School and was employed at SPX Mixing Co. for over 40 years.  Jim was very proud of his 40 years of service and had received many awards.  He was a man of all trades, enjoying welding, mechanics, and wood working.  Jim also enjoyed hunting, fishing and was an avid gun collector.  His greatest joy was spending time with his three daughters and his 5 and three quarters grandchildren.

He is survived by his three daughters Tamara (Gustavo) Ramirez, Haley (Wade) Braman and Samantha (Andrew) Rotoli; grandchildren Robert, Vyla, Huxley, Jameson, Kolt and soon to be, Elodie; cousin and best friend PD Foos; 3 brothers and 1 sister and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Jim’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 16650 State Route 31, Holley on Wednesday June 12 from 4:00-7:00, followed by his funeral service at 7:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Trump 2024.

To share a special memory of Jim, please visit: mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com

Posted June 05 2024 David R. Tower

LYNDONVILLE – David R. Tower, age 45, of Lyndonville, died unexpectedly on Friday, May 31, 2024 at his home.

Born January 14, 1979 in Medina, he was a son of Sandra (Kennedy) Rodgers and the late Ronald Tower. Dave grew up in the Medina area and attended Medina Central School. An outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting, fishing and riding dirt bikes and four-wheelers. Most of all Dave loved spending time with his children.

Predeceased by his father, Ronald Tower in 1980.

Left to cherish his memory are his mother, Sandra Rodgers of Lyndonville; son, Riley Tower of Medina; daughter, Skylar Tower of Lyndonville; loving friend, Miranda Tower; brother and best friend, Jason (Tiffany) Tower; sisters, Tara (Mark) Rader, Jillian (Ryan) Keller and Shelly Martin; grandmother, Shirley Tower; nieces and nephews, Justice, Dustin, Amber, Breah, Kaiden, Ava and Kennedy; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Services will be privately held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association at www.diabetes.org. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

© 2024 Albion-Holley Pennysaver, Inc. dba OrleansHub.com

A proud member of LION Publishers – supporting local, independent online news"