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Obituaries

Rev. Ivan R. Trujillo

By Joshua Smith

Alexander - 

Fr. Ivan Trujillo

Rev. Ivan R. Trujillo, 71 of Alexander, formerly of Batavia, went home to the Lord on Friday, (November 24, 2023) at his home in Alexander following a lengthy illness.

Rev. Trujillo was born December 12, 1951 in Oruro, Bolivia, a son of the late Ignacio and Angelica (Ibanez) Trujillo.

Fr. Ivan was a devoted and selfless priest who served as Pastor of Resurrection Parish in Batavia for 15 years. He graduated from Christ the King Seminary in East Aurora. Soon after he was assigned to a parish in Jamestown where he was ordained March 15, 1985. He also covered the Erie County Holding Center and Attica Prison. Rev. Trujillo was an Roman Catholic Chaplain at Erie County Holding Center for 17 years and worked one day a week at Attica Prison for 30 years as a Roman Catholic Chaplain. From there he was transferred to Nativity Parish in Buffalo and then to his final assignment at St. Mary's Church in Batavia. Rev. Trujillo was a dedicated priest serving at the New York State Veterans Home as a Catholic Chaplain since it opened and celebrated his last Mass here only three short weeks before his passing. He also served as a Roman Catholic Chaplain at both the VA Medical Center for 20 years and the Federal Detention Center in Batavia for several years.

Sr. Mary Jane Mitchell along with Rev. Trujillo established a Migrant Ministry Program which began in Genesee and Monroe counties. After many successful years the program was split and Rev. Trujillo continued working with the Genesee, Monroe and Niagara areas. He would dedicate one evening a week with other volunteers during the growing season to distribute food, clothes, boots and many other items to migrant workers and their families. Masses were also conducted throughout the program by Rev. Trujillo as well as his participation in quinceaneras, weddings and funerals. During Bishop Mansell's tenure the Diocese established a Hispanic Ministry Program and provided a Sister to help prepare Migrants for Reconciliation, Eucharist, & Confirmation. However a few years ago the Diocese removed the sister and no longer supported the program.

In Bolivia Rev. Trujillo has three soup kitchens which he established and are still in operation today as well as his instrumental role in helping orphanages, schools and the church in Oruro. St. Mary's in Batavia and St. Vincent's in Attica combined resources to build a parish center in Oruro Church which is a place for people to come get fresh water to take home, laundry tub to wash their clothes, soccer fields and rooms for religion classes.

Rev. Trujillo was a member of the Batavia Lions Club and Our Lady of Batavia Knights of Columbus Council #11728.

Rev. Trujillo had a great love for animals especially his faithful cat of 15 years, Mario.

He is survived by his adopted family; Deacon Henry and Elyn Moscicki, Erik Moscicki, Bryan (fiance, Jessica  Bukowski), Marcia A Huber, Staci, Rob & Bobby James, David (fiance Dr. Sandra Licata) Huber, Joseph & Loretta Huber, Doug & Cheri Cook, Elliot Cook, Michael, Adrienne, William & Charlotte Fuore, and many friends.

Rev. Trujillo will lie in state on Thursday (November 30, 2023) from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. and Friday (December 1, 2023) from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Resurrection Parish - St. Mary's Church, 18 Ellicott Street in Batavia, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday at 11:00 a.m. Most Rev. Michael William Fisher, Bishop of Buffalo will be Principal Celebrant. Interment will be private in Grandview Cemetery in Batavia. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Missions in Bolivia, c/o Marcia Huber.  

Arrangements for Rev. Trujillo were entrusted to the care of H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home in Batavia. Please leave a condolence, share a story, or light a candle at www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

James J. "Jim" Findlay

By T.J. Woodward
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James J. “Jim” Findlay, 62 of Batavia, passed away on November 22, 2023 in Warren, PA. He was born in Batavia, December 9, 1960 to the late John B. “Jack” and Concetta E. (Cetta) Findlay. 

Jim was a 1979 graduate of Byron-Bergen High School and 1983 graduate of SUNY Fredonia. He had just retired as Director of Specialized Services from Sight Center of Northwest Pennsylvania. Jim loved taking his clients to their appointments all over the northeast. He was an avid sports fan, he loved NASCAR, the LA Dodgers and Pittsburg Steelers. 

He was a proud member of Batavia Lion’s Club, past member of Erie and Warren, PA Lion’s Club, Cassadaga area Jaycees. Jim was enamored with the birth first granddaughter last Friday. He’ll be remembered as a family man that was always there to help anyone in need.  

He is survived by his beloved wife Rebecca “Becky” (Bohn) Findlay who he married February 3, 2023; children, Joseph (Andriana) Amico of Batavia, Nicholas (Amanda) Amico of Chili, Natalie (Marcus) Amico of Ogden, Anna (Tyler) Amico of Batavia; granddaughter Avery Budzinack-Amico; siblings, Mary (Frank) Crandon of Cape Coral, FL, Elizabeth (David Rahr) Findlay of LeRoy, Ann (Robert) Chilano of Batavia; niece, Catherine Chilano, nephews, Jacob and Lucas Crandon; along with several aunts, uncles, cousins and in-laws. 

Friends are invited to call on Friday, December 1, 2023 from 4 to 7pm at Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, New York. A 10:00am Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, December 2, 2023 at the Funeral Home. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Blind Students Activities Fund, C/O Batavia Lion’s Club, PO Box 456, Batavia, New York 14020. To leave an online message of condolence please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, New York 14020.

Madonna J. Lee

By LaVern Falcone

Madonna Lee, age 94, of LeRoy, passed away in the presence of her loving family, on Sunday, November 26, 2023.

     Madonna was born on June 18, 1929, the daughter of the late James Maloy and Helen Lapp Maloy and step-father, John “Mike” Hannifin.  

Madonna

   After graduating from RBI in Rochester, she was employed as secretary to the President of LeRoy’s Union Steel Chest.  After a few years, she took time off to raise her family.  After which she took a job at LeRoy Central School in the cafeteria.  She loved her part time position as the “lunch lady” and was widely recognized by LeRoy students for years later.

     Upon retirement from the school, Madonna and her husband, Tiny Lee, traveled the county lunching at their favorite hang outs, especially at the LB Grande restaurant.

     Madonna also loved history and travelled to countries such as Ireland, England and Italy.

     She was also a woman of great faith.  She was devoted to the Blessed Mother and always had her rosary beads nearby.  She also volunteered her time with the RCIA Program at Our Lady of Mercy Church in LeRoy, teaching the catholic faith to candidates interested in joining the catholic church.

     She will be sadly missed by her daughters, Chrissy Lucas, Monica (Daniel) Virag, Marianne (Monica Scarlotta) Lee, Mary Jane Lee and her grandchildren and great-grandchildren including Kelly Lucas, Lee Anne Virag, Shawn (Chantelle) Virag, Angie Virage, Sydney DeVay and Danilee Schneckenburger, along with special nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.  We will all carry her memory in our hearts.

     In addition to her parents and step-parent, she was predeceased by her husband, Floyd “Tiny” Lee and her son, Daniel Lee.  Also predeceased by her brother, James “Dunie” Maloy and a niece, Margaret Maloy Thomas.

     There will be no prior visitation per her request.

     A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, December 2, 2023 at 1:00 PM at Our Lady of Mercy Parish, St. Peter’s Church, 44 Lake Street, LeRoy, NY

     There will be a celebration of her life luncheon immediately after the Mass.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Our Lady of Mercy Parish, St. Peter’s Church, 44 Lake Street, LeRoy, NY 14482

     Mom ~ we love you dearly and will miss you forever.

     Your memories and condolences may be shared with Madonna’s family at www.falconefuneralhome.com

Jane Meier

By Joshua Smith
Jane

Batavia - Jane C Meier, 91 of Batavia passed away on Tuesday, November 21, 2023 at United Memorial Medical Center.

Jane was born Wednesday, May 18th, 1932, in Wellsville, NY, a daughter of the late F. Llewellyn and Naomi (Johnson) Casterline.

Jane graduated from Buffalo State Teachers College with a degree in Home Economics education. She later returned to Buffalo State to obtain certification in Special Education, as well as her Master’s degree. She met the love of her life, Richard F Meier, at an Ox Roast. They were later married on July 30, 1955. She enjoyed spending time with her family, sewing, raising her two children, James and Debra, and teaching Special Education at Genesee Valley BOCES, for over 30 years. She was a guiding light at the Genesee ARC, where she frequently served as President.

She is survived by her daughter, Debra Meier, of Grand Island, NY

In death Jane is reunited with her husband, Richard, and son, James.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of H. E. Turner Funeral Home. As per the families wishes there will be a celebration of life at a later time.

Please leave a condolence, share a story, or light a candle at www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Rev. Ivan R. Trujillo

By Joshua Smith

Alexander - Rev. Ivan R. Trujillo, longtime pastor of Resurrection Parish passed away Friday morning at his home. 

A complete obituary will appear in coming days.

Rev. Trujillo will lie in state on Thursday (November 30, 2023) from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. and Friday (December 1, 2023) from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Resurrection Parish - St. Mary's Church, 18 Ellicott Street in Batavia, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday at 11:00 a.m. Most Rev. Michael William Fisher, Bishop of Buffalo will be Principal Celebrant. Interment will be private in Grandview Cemetery in Batavia. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Missions in Bolivia, c/o Marcia Huber.  

Arrangements for Rev. Trujillo were entrusted to the care of H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home in Batavia. Please leave a condolence, share a story, or light a candle at www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Michael Joseph Condidorio

By LaVern Falcone

Michael Joseph Condidorio, 59, of LeRoy, NY, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 21, 2023, surrounded by his loving family at Crossroads House in Batavia, NY. 

     Born to Joseph and Florence (DiSalvo) Condidorio on December 17, 1963, Michael was number 7 in a family of 10 children.        

m condidorio

 Michael is survived by his parents, Joseph and Florence Condidorio, and siblings, Gregory (Debbie) Condidorio, Darlene Condidorio, Jeffrey (Donna) Condidorio, Joseph Condidorio, Patrick Condidorio, Douglas (Rhonda) Condidorio, Beth (Randy) Bartz, John (Sue Eckert) Condidorio, Thomas (Charity) Condidorio, along with many nieces and nephews.

     Michael is predeceased by his sister-in-law Christine Condidorio; niece, Michelle Condidorio and great-nephew, Quin Joseph Saylor.

     Michael graduated from Notre Dame High School in Batavia Class of 1982.  Michael was loving and caring, and he will be missed by all who knew him.  From the time he could talk, Michael had a convincing nature, which led to his future career as a salesman.  He loved music, particularly the Grateful Dead and John Denver.  Michael was an avid pool player and enjoyed spending time around the table with friends.

     Family and friends are invited to a celebration of Michael’s life on Saturday, November 25, 2023 at 11:00 am at Our Lady of Mercy Parish, St. Peter’s Church in LeRoy, followed by a luncheon at the LeRoy Country Club.

     In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Michael’s memory to Crossroads House, 11 Liberty St., P.O. Box 403, Batavia, NY 14021. www.crossroadshouse.com 

     Your memories and condolences may be shared with Michael’s family at www.falconefuneralhome.com.

Hilda Echevarria-Moscicki

By Ronald Konieczny
Moscicki

Hilda Echevarria–Moscicki, 62 of Batavia, NY passed away on Sunday, November 19, 2023 surrounded by her family at her home.

Hilda was a beautiful soul who touched the lives of everyone she met. She was a devoted wife, mother, sister and friend.

Born to Salvador and Felicita (Maldonado) Echevarria in Dunkirk, NY on March 11, 1961, she was the youngest of four children.

Upon graduating from Dunkirk High School in 1979, Hilda enlisted in the U.S. Army. Working as a Unit Supply Specialist and a Materials Control and Accounting Specialist, she was stationed among various bases including Germany, Korea, and after 13 years as a Staff Sergeant, retiring from her base in Hawaii where she served during the Persian Gulf War.

Returning to Dunkirk, she continued her education graduating from Jamestown Community College with an Associates Degree in Science Individual Studies – Honor Society Phi Theta Kappa. She went onto SUNY @ Fredonia graduating Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology – Honor Society in Psychology – Psi Chi @ SUNY @ Fredonia.

With her education under her belt, she went out into the workforce as a Purchasing Clerk at Red Wing Co. Inc, assistant to the Lifestyles Editor for the Observer Child Care Specialist for Chautauqua Opportunities Inc. In 1999, she worked for the State of New York Department of Correctional Services, Lakeview Shock, Sullivan, Ulster, Livingston and Wyoming Correctional Facility, retiring in 2018.

On August 27, 2016, Hilda married Ronald Moscicki, “Amor de Mi Vida”. Together they blended their families, sharing memorable life experiences. Traveling, volunteering, crafting and famous for her cakes, Hilda enjoyed hosting family gatherings and pool parties. Love of family and friends was everything to Hilda. She will be profoundly missed by everyone.

Survivors include her husband, Ronald Moscicki of Batavia. Daughter, Seryna Ancelet of Batavia. Step-children, Michelle (Justin) Mager of Batavia and Ronald Jr. (Brittany) Moscicki of Batavia. Siblings, Helen (Rodger) Pierce of Fredonia and Harry (Carmen) Echevarria of Dunkirk.

Family and friends are cordially invited to her Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, December 2nd at 10:00am at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, 328 Washington Ave., Dunkirk, NY.

Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.mcandrewfuneralhomes.net.

ARRANGEMENTS WERE ENTRUSTED TO THE J. LEONARD McANDREW FUNERAL HOME, LLC, 2 BOGUE AVE., ,BATAVIA, NY 14020. RONALD KONIECZNY II, DIRECTOR.

 

 

Ryan M. Norton Sr.

By T.J. Woodward
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Ryan M. Norton Sr., 49, of Batavia passed away on November 16, 2023. He was born on July 12, 1974 in Batavia to the late David Norton and Mary (Heisler) Woods of California. In addition to his father, Ryan is predeceased by his; daughter Allie Zarty. 

Ryan is survived by his mother; Mary (Richard) Woods of CA; stepmother Anne Norton of Hilton; children Marissa Norton of CA., Ryan M. Norton Jr. of Batavia, Gabe Norton of MI., Becky Kantz of MI., Justin Kantz of York, and Duane Godfrey of CA.; significant other Michelle Kantz of MI; siblings Tom (Sherrie) Norton of Hamlin, Jason (Michelle) Norton of Oakfield, Michael Kramer of GA., and Tammy Kramer of WA; 10 grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. 

Ryan was a man that was all heart; he cared deeply for all people. Rarely judging others for their faults, Ryan showed grace knowing that those who show mercy shall receive mercy.

He lived his life helping others reaching out to family, and those who were lonely. Throughout his life Ryan felt misunderstood but he had a way of including others who felt the same, making people feel welcomed and loved. He was drawn to people whom he felt struggled in the same manner. Ryan kept in touch with many people from his past and considered them friends. If you really knew Ryan, then you knew despite his rough & tough exterior, he was a big gentle cuddly bear. 

 He lived in New York, California and Michigan throughout his life. He deeply loved His family especially his children /stepchildren and Grandchildren having his children/stepchildren and grandchildren in different states didn't matter, he always made a point to be in touch with them as much as possible. Always making sure that the connection and bond remained intact. 

 Ryan worked as a cook at many restaurants, and he worked as an oil change expert in his younger days. Ryan ended up as a machinist following in his Dad's footsteps. He was passionate working on the Acme machines and had the knowhow to run these extreme precision machines, this was the work that he absolutely loved to do.

 Ryan enjoyed spending time fishing with his brother which became a love for him at a young age with his Pops. Watching Basketball Especially March Madness and the Buffalo Bills games 

Ryan enjoyed watching sports especially with family & friends. He was a true Buffalo Bills fan, Bills mafia all the way. He loved his music and his music had to be loud. You always knew when Ryan had arrived at his destination because you could hear the booming bass pulling in the drive outside the location. 

Holidays, birthdays, and anniversaries were dates that Ryan never ever forgot, You could always rely on him to remind us of what was coming up. Well November 17th, 2023, is the date that all of us who loved and knew Ryan will never forget, this is the date that all of our hearts have been changed forever because this was the day that our Heavenly Father Called Ryan home into his Kingdom and tender loving arms. 

There will be no prior calling hours. A 1:00PM Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday December 9, 2023 at the Everpresent Church 4 Batavia City Centre Batavia, NY 14020. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family to offset the memorial expenses. Donation link  https://everpresentchurch.com/ryan-norton-memorial-support/ or www.everpresentchurch.com under giving page. To leave an online message of condolence please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, New York 14020.

Dorsie McGill Sr.

By Joshua Smith
Dorsie McGill Sr.
                            
ELBA NY —Dorsie McGill Sr.,70, formerly of Elba passed away on Friday, November 17, 2023. He was a recent resident at Pruitt Health Nursing home in North Carolina. He left a legacy of love, warmth and cherished memories. He was a devoted father, son, friend, grandfather and great grandfather. His passing will be deeply felt by his children, family and all who knew him. 
 
Mr. McGill was born July 22, 1953, in Eastman Georgia., the son of the late Willie L. McGill Sr. and Orgia Wilcox McGill. He is predeceased by his sister Hazel McGill (Walker) and his brother Willie L. Mcgill, Jr. and sister-in-law Ruth Ann McGill.
 
 He was a 1972 graduate of Elba Central School. He was a member of the First Baptist church in Elba. When he was younger, he started up the first church youth group at Elba Baptist church. He loved to read the bible and to teach others about GOD. He then started his career as a meter reader at Niagara Mohawk. He later on, through all his hard work, become Chief Tree Trimmer A Foreman of his own tree crew at Niagara Mohawk. He worked there for many years until his retirement. He loved his job and crew members. Dorsie was an avid fisherman, and gardener. He loved to BBQ on the grill with family and friends. He was a sports fan, especially of the Buffalo Bills and Giants. He was also a bouncer at several carnivals and events along with his brothers. He enjoyed playing darts, euchre and solitaire. He took great pleasure in sharing life's big and small moments. Dorsie was a very generous person, always wanting to make sure that everyone felt loved and included. He loved life, his family and friends.
 
He is survived by the mother of his two children, Sheryl Majors of Batavia, daughter Darcie Watts of North Carolina, and son Dorsie McGill Jr. of Batavia. Brothers Marcus McGill of Rochester, and Robert (Penny) of Ocala, Florida and sister-in-law Cindy McGill of Pennsylvania. Grandchildren, Darionna, Aarionna, Tony, Jaxson, Matthias, Jayla, and Nevaeh. Great grandchild, Haisley. Uncle Gary (Ann) McGill of Georgia, and Aunt Elain (Joseph) Manning of Georgia, along with many nieces and nephews. 
 
In honor of Dorsie's memory, his family is planning a memorial service to celebrate his life. Details of the service will be communicated later. During this time of grief, let us remember the joy and love that Dorsie brought into our lives. May his spirit live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know him. 
Please keep the family in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate through this difficult time and come together to remember and celebrate the life of Dorsie McGill Sr.
 
 In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the family at Darcie Watts at, 311 W 16th Street, Lumberton, North Carolina, 28358.
 
 Please leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle at www.bataviafuneralhomes.com

Gary "Flake" E. Fredo

By Joshua Smith
Gary "Flake" E. Fredo

Gary "Flake" E. Fredo, 69, of Oakfield, passed away on Saturday, November 18, 2023.

Gary was born December 7, 1953 in Batavia, a son of the late James and Lois (Rhoades) Fredo.

Gary worked at Chassix formerly known as Automatic Corporation as a quality control inspector for over thirty years.

Gary was an avid fisherman, who loved mowing his lawn and baseball, especially the New York Yankees, and watching the Buffalo Bills. His children and grandchildren were his pride and joy, his world revolved around them.  He could always be found attending their events.  

Surviving are his wife, Christina (Corbelli) Fredo of Oakfield; daughters, Jessica Fredo of Oakfield and Alicia (Adam) Bischoff of Batavia; grandchildren, Jazmyn Dobson, Parker Dobson and Weston Bischoff; brothers, David (Judy) Rhoades of Lakeland, FL, Donald Fredo of Houston, TX, Terry Fredo of Hartwell, GA and Randy (Sonya) Fredo of Campobello, SC; a sister, Zella Johnson of Houston, TX and nieces and nephews.

Gary is a brother of the late James T. Fredo, Guy Fredo and Jerald Fredo.

Family and friends are invited to call on Monday, November 27 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Burdett & Sanford Funeral Home, 11 Maple Avenue in Oakfield. Gary's Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, November 28 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Padre Pio Parish, 56 Maple Avenue, Oakfield.  He will be laid to rest in St. Cecelia's Cemetery in Oakfield.  At the conclusion of the services on Tuesday, all are invited to a reception at the Oakfield Fire Hall, 20 Albert Street.  

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family to be distributed.

Please leave a condolence, share a story, or light a candle at www.burdettandsanford.com.

Michael J. Hubler

By Ronald Konieczny
Hubler

Michael J. Hubler, 49 of Rochester, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, November 16, 2023.

He was born September 5, 1974 in Batavia, NY, a son of Larry and Sherry Reiter Hubler of South Byron, NY.

Michael was employed by Panera Bread in Rochester. He was a volunteer for several years at Saints Place in Pittsford. Michael enjoyed woodworking, being outdoors and the beaches on Lake Ontario.  He loved time spent with his children.  We will love and miss him always.

Surviving besides his parents are his children, Mikaela Hubler, Michael Hubler and Zane Hubler. Brother, Troy Hubler. Nephew, Troy Hubler II. Also survived by aunts, uncles and several cousins and friends.

Funeral services will be held privately at the convenience of the family. Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.mcandrewfuneralhomes.net.

ARRANGEMENTS WERE ENTRUSTED TO THE J. LEONARD McANDREW FUNERAL HOME, LLC, 2 BOGUE AVE., BATAVIA, NY 14020. RONALD KONIECZNY II, DIRECTOR.

 

 

Courtney L. Cavallario

By Joshua Smith
Cavallario

It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Courtney Cavallario, age 42. She passed away on November 12, 2023. Courtney was born on January 25, 1981 in Amherst, New York to Edward and Denise Strassel.  Courtney’s calling was to help others and chose a career in nursing as an Oncology Nurse in the Roswell Cancer Center Intermediate Intensive Care Unit.

Courtney married Timothy Bisher in 2006 and had 3 children, Luke, Aubrey and Travis.  She married Joseph Cavallario on February 23, 2020 and became a beautiful blended and loving family with children Bella and Leah Cavallario.  

Courtney was a devoted mother and cherished her time going on adventures with her children. She loved visiting Disney World, going to amusement parks, and taking vacations with her family. In her free time, Courtney was an avid runner and recently completed her first half-marathon, the Niagara Falls Half. A true Bills fan, she enjoyed cheering for the Buffalo Bills each week and never missed watching a game.  She was known for her generosity and the strong ability to care for others. She was an animal lover and adored her 3 dogs Cooper, Odie and Naya.  

Courtney is survived by her spouse, Joesph Cavallario, children Luke Bisher (17), Aubrey Bisher (16), Travis Bisher (14), stepchildren Bella Cavallario (17) and Leah Cavallario (14), parents Ed and Denise Strassel, sibling Aimee Ertel and ex-husband, Timothy Bisher.  Courtney was predeceased by her beloved brother Jordan.  

Friends and family may call on Monday from 2 pm to 8 pm at the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, 403 East Main Street, Batavia. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday at 10 am at St. Joseph’s Church, 303 East Main Street, Batavia. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to ConnectLife (www.connectlifeorg) for organ, blood, tissue donation, or Watertown Community Foundation of Northern NY (www.nnycf.org), which establishes nursing scholarships. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in her memory, please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Joseph J. Mathis

By LaVern Falcone

Everyone, it seemed, knew Joe. 

     All the parishioners at Our Lady of Mercy in LeRoy. The community members at St. Ann’s in LeRoy and Cherry Ridge in Webster. At the McDonald's on Main Street where he and his beloved wife, Mary Jane, would grab breakfast with friends after attending morning daily mass. 

     "Hey, guy," Joe would greet friends and strangers alike, offering a warm smile and a sincere, "How are you today?"    

joe mathis

  That was Joseph James Mathis, the man whose kind spirit, deep faith and unwavering love of family guided him through life. 

     Joe died Nov. 15, 2023, surrounded by those he loved -- and those who loved him immensely. He was their father and grandfather, a role model in countless ways. And it was those qualities -- his tender care and affection for his wife of 56 years, his six children, his 13 grandchildren and his Our Lady of Mercy family -- that defined who he was. 

     Joe was 84. And what a wonderful life he led.  He was born in Binghamton on Jan. 18, 1939, the third of 11 children to Joseph and Catherine Mathis. He was proud to bear his father's name. 

     He was modest in many ways, despite a successful 53-year career in the food service industry. And family and friends always marveled at how he could fall asleep in his chair without ever spilling a drop of coffee from the mug he held. 

     But ask Joe about his days at Windsor Central High School, and he would proudly recount his decorated athletic career and his multiple varsity letters playing football, basketball and baseball. His biggest win, however, came after meeting his future wife, Mary Jane Hurley, who was both a cheerleader and valedictorian of their high school. They married July 13, 1963. He said it was the best day of his life. 

     Mary Jane died Sept. 25, 2019. Life was never the same for Joe. He stayed busy in his yard, in his parish and with his family. For Joe, family and faith were everything. 

     He is survived by his six children: Mary Catherine (Andrew) Duncan; Ellen (Matthew) Bailey; Maureen Mathis; Christopher (Kim) Mathis; Sean Mathis; and Brendan (Kara) Mathis.

     Other survivors include his 13 grandchildren: Maura, Cara and Daniel Duncan; Anna and Thomas Bailey; McKenzie Spooner; Mary Jane, Jack and Dominic Mathis; Nathan and Adam Mathis; and Ryan and Jacob Mathis.  He is also survived by his siblings: John Mathis, Joan Chambers, James (Ann) Mathis, Edward (Regina)Mathis, Kathleen (Gordon) Kniffen, David Mathis, Elizabeth (Tony) Kelishian, Karen Rattmann, Mary (William) Burgoon, and Teresa (Darryl) Nielsen.

     Family and friends may call on Monday, Nov. 20 from 4 ~ 7 p.m. at the Falcone Family Funeral and Cremation Service Inc., 8700 Lake Road in LeRoy. His Rite of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 21 at 11 a.m. at Our Lady of Mercy Parish, St. Peter's Church, 44 Lake St., in LeRoy. 

     No doubt, Joe and Mary Jane would appreciate it if you stopped at McDonald's on Main Street after mass. 

    Memorials are suggested to Our Lady of Mercy Parish in LeRoy, NY. 

    Your memories and condolences may be shared with Joe’s family at www.falconefuneralhome.com. 

Robin Joy Woodams

By Joshua Smith
Robin Joy Woodams

Robin Joy Woodams, age 68 of Oakfield, NY, was welcomed home to Jesus surrounded by family on November 12th 2023.

Robin was born to Millard and Ida Martin on October 19th, 1955 in Rochester, NY. She was one of 10 children and graduated from Hilton High School in 1972. Following high school, she had a well established beauty salon, was a youth pastor at Batavia Presbyterian church, and ended her working career as a devoted nanny.

Robin met her husband Kurt in 1971, married in 1973 and recently celebrated 50 wonderful years of marriage! The couple went on to have 2 children, Ian and Kelly, with many pets loved in between. The family moved to Oakfield, NY where Robin built a home filled with an abundance of love and memories which carry on in her absence.

In addition to being a dedicated wife and loving mother, Robin also loved camping, spring gardening, and late night campfires in the backyard. She was an avid traveler and was always up for an adventure. Baking cookies with her grandkids, hosting family parties and sitting on the porch with family and friends was where she found her true joy. Most of all, Robin held an unwavering faith in God, which she shared with all who came in contact with her.

Robin was a loyal servant to God, first and foremost. She was a part of Lydia’s Kitchen, Meals on Wheels, numerous youth groups, was a Girl Scout leader, led countless bible studies, and was an active and loved member of Northgate Free Methodist church.

Robin has triumphantly joined several family members in Heaven. Mourning her loss, she is survived by many loving family members, including her husband Kurt; children Ian (Johanna) and Kelly (James); grandchildren Ava, Micah and Maddie; Juan Flores; her best friend Cheryl; sisters and brothers, along with many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Robin’s name to Northgate Free Methodist church. A celebration of life will be held Tuesday, November 21st beginning at 4pm, with a service at 6pm at her beloved Northgate Free Methodist Church. Come casual, come comfortable, come grab a nibble and most of all come brightly colored to celebrate Robin’s amazing life!

Psalm 73:26
"My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."

Please leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle at www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements for Robin were entrusted to the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, Batavia, (585) 343-8868.

Philip E. Tooze

By LaVern Falcone

Spring Hill, FL ~ Philip E. Tooze, age 74, formerly of LeRoy, passed away at home in Spring Hill in the loving presence of his family on November 12, 2023.  

Phil tooze

  Phil was born September 9, 1949, a son of the late Thomas and Audrey “Lois” Smith Tooze Root, and step-son of the late Robert Root.

     He was the former proprietor of the original Creekside Inn (before it was destroyed by a fire in 2004) and T-Muggins in LeRoy. He was also the former manager of Applebee’s Restaurant in Batavia prior to his retirement.

     He will be sadly missed by his wife, Judith Anderson-Tooze; his children, David Powers Jr., Jennifer Powers, Vincent Gravanda III, Samantha (Patrick) Vogler, Kimberly (Jack) Waggoner, Karrie (David) Moore Jr. and Krista (Frank) Palmer; grandchildren, Alexis Powers, Cole & Dane Friedhaber, Peyton Vogler, Benjamin, Paige & Bradley Waggoner, Andrew Moore and Sadie, Sophie & Isaac Palmer; sisters, MaryAnn Barrett, Audrey Hackett and Deborah Vogel, along with many special cousins, nieces, nephews and dear friends.

     We will always carry your memory in our hearts. 

     In addition to his parents and step-father, Phil was predeceased by his infant son, Philip Edward Tooze Jr.

     Family and friends may call on Sunday, Nov.19 from 1 ~ 5 PM at the Falcone Family Funeral & Cremation Service Inc., 8700 Lake St. Rd., LeRoy, where his funeral service will be held at 5:00 P.M.

     In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Phil are suggested to the American Cancer Society.

     Your memories and condolences may be shared with Phil’s family at www.falconefuneralhome.com

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