Obituaries

Susan P. Locke, age 81, of Batavia, New York passed away on May 14, 2025 four weeks shy of her 82nd birthday.

Sue was born in Brooklyn, New York and from a young age was in love with live theater. She had a long teaching career at John Kennedy School on Vine Street, Batavia after graduating from Geneseo State and Hofstra Universities. Sue demonstrated this love with school plays she presented with her fourth and fifth grade students. Everyone in school looked forward to those plays. She left a legacy of performance and excellence with her students.

She is survived by her brother, Peter (Barbara) Locke and her nephew, Lee Locke.

Friends may call on Tuesday, May 20th from 4 pm to 6 pm at the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, 403 East Main Street, Batavia. Services will immediately follow visitation at 6 pm. She will be laid to rest at Wellwood Cemetery in Long Island, very close to where her mom and dad are buried. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorials in her name to your favorite charity. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in her memory, please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Alberta Hargrave, age 93, of Pavilion, passed away peacefully on Friday May 16, 2025 at United Memorial Medical Center.

Alberta was born November 22, 1931 the daughter of the late Calvin and Beulah Pursel. One of eight children she grew up in Oakfield and LeRoy. She met and married the love of her life, Monroe Hargrave in 1950. They spent 56 years together raising 7 children of their own and being a 2nd mom to her sister and brother-in-law's (Earl and Gladys Hargrave) 10 children.

Following her husband's death in 2006 she spent the remainder of her life devoted to her family, her church and her Lord. A devout Christian, he was a member of Roanoke Community Church in Stafford.

Alberta is survived by 5 children; John Hargrave of Pavilion, Elizabeth Thurley of Warsaw, Gail Smith of East Bethany, Stanley (THE Penny) Hargrave of Batavia and Jeannette (Robert) Richberg of Warsaw. Also surviving is her brother, Clifford (Lynda) Pursel of Caledonia. She was the proud grandmother of 12, great-grandmother to 32, great-great-grandmother to 8 and beloved aunt to many nieces and nephews.

She is predeceased by her husband Monroe, her daugher, Ramona Mae, son Alan (AJ), grandson, Michael Thurley and granddaughter, Ariel; her siblings, George Pursel, Calvin Pursel, Kathleen Maloy, Marguerite Cleveland, Bea Pursel and Gladys Hargrave.

She devoted her life to her family and extended family showing unconditional love and understanding as well as the path to Christ - her foundation. She will be missed by all who had the pleasure of crossing paths with this remarkable lady.

The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to Dr. Thatcher; nurses Joy, Sam and Jamie of the 3rd floor at UMMC and the security staff for the exceptional care and compassion they gave not only to our mother but the family as well. Truly outstanding care.

Heartfelt thanks to Steven Johnson of Bohm-Calarco-Smith Funeral Home and the Crossroads House volunteers for their support.

Friends may call on Tuesday May 20th from 1 pm to 3 pm at the Bohm-Calarco-Smith Funeral Home, 308 East Main Street, Batavia. Services will immediately follow visitation at 3 pm at the funeral home. She will be laid to rest in Hedgesville Cemetery in Woodhull, New York at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to In Touch Ministries, PO Box 7900, Atlanta, Georgia 30357-9979 or online at www.intouch.org or to family members to be forwarded onto In Touch Ministries.

To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in her memory, please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Robert E. Dombrowski “Bob”, 80 of Batavia, NY entered into eternal rest on May 11, 2025.

Bob was born October 8, 1944 and was the son of the late William and Julia Wojtacha Dombrowski. He was predeceased by his wife, JoAnn Megliore Dombrowski, his brother and sister in-law, William and Barbara Dombrowski.

He is survived by his daughter, Jolene Case. Grandson, Spencer Swartz, who was his pride and joy. Sister, Barbara (late Ken) Barlow. Nieces, Robyn (late Jeff) Falcone, Lisa Gray and Kristy (Darryl) Kruczkowski. Nephews, David Dombrowski and Tommy (Gigi) Dombrowski. Great nieces, nephews and cousins also survive.

Bob served in the United States Army (1965-1967) and retired from the Batavia Post Office. He had a passion for cars and even restored a 1937 Chevy, which he would enter in car shows and drive in area parades. He enjoyed watching old TV westerns, The Andy Griffith Show, NASCAR and the Buffalo Bills.

Attending his grandsons football and baseball games was something he looked forward to so he could cheer him on. Spencer and “Grandpa Bob” loved going out to breakfast together at area restaurants. Bob loved a good homemade meal and appreciated when his daughter cooked for him, especially his favorite… her homemade spaghetti sauce. If you knew Bob, then you knew everything was always neat, clean, organized and had its place.

There will be no prior visitation. Family and friends are invited to share in his Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday (May 24^th), 9:30am at Ascension Parish, South Swan Street, Batavia. Burial will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family or Crossroads House, PO Box 403, 11 Liberty Street, Batavia, NY 14021 or www.crossroadshouse.com. 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.

Robert E. Russum, age 88, formerly of Stafford, NY, passed away on February 7, 2025 in Florida.

     Visitation for Robert will be held on Thursday, May 15, 2025 from 5:30 ~ 7:30 P.M. and Friday, May 16 from 10 ~ 11 A.M. at Falcone Family Funeral & Cremation Service Inc. 8700 Lake St. Rd., LeRoy, where his Funeral Service will commence at 11:00 A.M.  Interment will follow in the Stafford Rural Cemetery.

Shirley Marie Perry, age 71, of Fairport, New York, formerly of Buffalo, NY, passed away peacefully on May 6, 2025, at St. Ann's Community in Rochester, NY.

Born as the only child to Raymond and Mercedes (Jenkins) Perry, who preceded her in death, Shirley lived a life dedicated to the care and healing of others.

A proud graduate of LeRoy High School, Shirley furthered her education at Roberts Wesleyan University and the University of Buffalo. Her career as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist took her to hospitals throughout Buffalo, across the United States, and worldwide, where she touched countless lives with her skilled and compassionate care.

Shirley is survived by her devoted caregiver and cousin, Yvonne Wales, and several other cousins and friends who cherished her warm spirit and generous heart. The family extends special gratitude to Wanda and Jeff Klem for their unwavering support throughout Shirley's final journey.

The interment will be private at Machpelah Cemetery in LeRoy, NY.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Shirley's memory may make donations to Roberts Wesleyan University School of Nursing, Rochester, NY or St. Ann's Community, Rochester, NY.

Jennings Nulton and Mattle Funeral Home, Penfield, NY, are handling the arrangements.

Jeffrey Edwin Gillard, age 76, passed away peacefully, with his family by his side, on May 12, 2025 at Strong Memorial Hospital.

Born in his beloved Batavia, on January 18, 1949 to the late E. John and Nadine (Shanahan) Gillard.

Jeff graduated from Batavia High School and soon after joined the US Army on August 19, 1968, later serving in Vietnam. He married Donna Sputore on August 15, 2004. Jeff was known by all as a multi-talented self-employed tradesman that rarely passed on a project or a social event. He was a proud veteran that loved being active in his community, only slowing down slightly in recent years to semi-retire and enjoy Florida winters and frequent visits with his grandchildren.

Jack of all trades is the perfect way to describe Jeff. He was everyone’s handyman. A snowbird in his later years, Jeff enjoyed Florida winters with Donna as they walked in the sunshine, watched rocket launches, fished and spent time with both new and old friends. He enjoyed traveling, photography, reading nonfiction, tinkering in the garage, tending to the yard and flowers, NASCAR, the Dallas Cowboys, his coffee groups and spending time with his many friends and family. He never missed a major event for his son or grandchildren. Known for his active lifestyle and always helping others, Jeff relished giving back to his community. He volunteered at Crossroads House and Genesee Cancer Assistance and was on the zoning board of appeals and the Holland Land Office Board.

Jeff is survived by his loving wife Donna (Sputore) Gillard; son, Geoffrey (Keri) Roche; grandchildren, Ethan and Lucas Roche; siblings, Craig (Sandra) Gillard and Susan (Late Tom) Metz; brother in law Paul (Mary) Sputore, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A visitation for Jeff will be from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm Sunday, May 18, 2025 at H.E. Turner & Co., Inc. Funeral Home, 403 East Main Street, Batavia. Friends and family are invited to meet the family at H.E. Turner & Co., Inc. Funeral Home on Monday, May 19, 2025 at 1:00pm for a procession to Western New York National Cemetery, Pembroke, New York for interment service and military honors. A gathering at Ascension Parish Hall, 17 Sumner Street, Batavia, New York will immediately follow the internment.

In Lieu of Flowers, donations may be made in Jeffrey’s memory to: Crossroads House, 11 Liberty Street, Batavia, NY 14020 or Genesee Cancer Assistance, 127 North Street, Batavia, NY14020.

To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in his memory, please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Richard James Feneran, 76, passed away on May 12, 2025, in Buffalo, New York. A proud veteran, devoted family man, and skilled craftsman, Richard’s life was marked by courage, dedication, and love.

     Born on August 27, 1948, in Batavia, New York, Richard was the son of Richard George Feneran and Lois Thelma Feneran (Higgins). He grew up in LeRoy and graduated from LeRoy High School. From a young age, he demonstrated a strong work ethic and a deep sense of duty—qualities that would define his life.  

   Richard served his country with honor during the Vietnam War. His bravery and sacrifice were recognized with the Purple Heart. His service left an indelible mark not only on those who served alongside him but also on his community back home. His heroism was later honored in a published book about the Vietnam War, where he was recognized as a war hero—a testament to the depth of his courage and commitment.

     After returning home from service, Richard built a life rooted in love and family. He shared more than 50 years of marriage with his beloved wife Deborah Feneran (Stoeckl), whose memory he cherished deeply following her passing. Together they raised two children: James Feneran and Rebecca Ford (Feneran), who carry forward their father’s legacy of strength and compassion.

     Richard found great joy in being a grandfather to Elijah Ford and Noah Ford. He took pride in watching them grow and sharing with them the values that guided his own life.

     A talented craftsman and woodworker, Richard spent countless hours creating with his hands—building not just furniture or keepsakes but lasting memories for those around him. Whether working in his shop or helping out at the local Legion with fellow veterans, he gave generously of his time and talents. His presence at the Legion was more than social; it was an extension of his lifelong commitment to service.

     He also enjoyed hunting—a pastime that connected him to nature and offered moments of peace and reflection.

     Richard is survived by his son James Feneran, daughter Rebecca Ford (Feneran), and grandsons Elijah Ford and Noah Ford, his sisters Patricia Navas (Feneran), Mary (William) Brady (Feneran) and his brother Thomas Feneran. He was predeceased by his loving wife Deborah Feneran (Stoeckl), father Richard George Feneran, and mother Lois Thelma Feneran (Higgins).

     Richard James Feneran will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, veteran, and friend. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and inspiration to all who hear his story. 

     Family and friends are invited to call on Friday, May 23, 2025 from 4 ~ 7 PM at the Falcone Family Funeral & Cremation Service Inc., 8700 Lake Rd, LeRoy, NY 14482. 

     In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the American Legion Post 576, 53 W. Main Street, LeRoy, NY 14482

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

Charles Calvin Toal, age 75, of Stafford, New York, passed away on January 15, 2025.    

 Visitation for Charles will be held on Saturday, May 31, 2025 from 1:30 ~ 2:30 P.M. at the Covington United Presbyterian Church, 1701 Craig Road, Pavilion, N.Y., where his Memorial Service will commence at 2:30 P.M.

     Memorials may be made to the church.

     Condolences may be left at www.falconefuneralhome.com 

Cynthia K. Rowland, 70 of Batavia, entered the Kingdom of her Lord and Savior on Sunday (May 11, 2025), surrounded by family, after a courageous 2 year battle with cancer. 

She was born April 5, 1955, a daughter of the late Grace Leonard Durr and Rev. Herbert (Ruth) Durr of Florida.

After graduating from Elba Central School in 1974, she went on to work at Trojan and then P.W. Minor, both in Batavia.  For the following 40 years, she ran her own business, cleaning numerous houses and businesses throughout the area.

Over the past 17 years, her greatest joy was spending time with her grandchildren.  She loved taking them shopping for their birthdays and having sleepovers with them at her house.

Cindy was a loyal, caring and kind friend to all throughout her life.  She looked forward to meeting with her prayer group friends on a monthly basis.  

Of special note is her lifelong best friend Dyder Smith, who she spent a lot of her free time with.  They had an unbelievable amount of fun together for 50 years.   

Cindy was an extremely faithful member of the Genesee Country Church in Oakfield, which her father, Pastor Herbert Durr, founded in 1980.  She served in several ministries there, including teaching Sunday School and VBS and helping to found the Olympian youth program.  

Cindy was also a dedicated member of the Gideons International organization, serving with the local branch for many years.  

She is survived by her husband, Ronald Rowland of Batavia. Son, Aaron (Jacqualine) Chamberlain of Oakfield. Daughter, Kristi (Anthony) Miano of Oakfield. Step-children, Scott (Karen) Rowland of Perry, Rhonda (Pastor Ken) Schultz of Tennessee, Faith (late Roger) Francis of Batavia, Robert (Maria) Rowland of Kentucky, Lenora Kohorst of Darien and Deborah Rowland of Darien. Siblings, Bruce (Cindy) Durr of Medina and Amy (Brian) Thompson of Oakfield. Sister-in-law, Tracey Durr of Maryland. Also survived by 21 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

She was the sister of the late William Durr.

Family and friends are cordially invited to share thoughts, condolences and fond memories on Sunday (May 18th) from 3:30pm – 5pm at the Genesee Country Church, 3268 Drake Street Rd, Oakfield, NY, where a Celebration of Life Service will commence at 5pm.

Interment will be held privately in the Carey Cemetery.

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.

Steven J. Skelton, 61 of Christiana TN, passed away at the Tri-Star Stonecrest Hospital in Smyrna, TN on April 2nd, 2025. 

Steven was the son of the late Edward & Phyllis (Blair) Skelton, brother of the late Richard Skelton, uncle of the late Clinton Herrington, Billy Majors, Scott Sharp, and great uncle of Brian Herrington.

Surviving siblings; Karen (Jerry) Rumsey, FL, Carol (late John) Pacsuzzo, NY, Linda Herrington, TN, William (Cindy) Skelton, FL, sister in- law, Susan Skelton, VA. Many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Steven was a graduate of Elba Central School, in Elba, NY. 

No prior visitation. Steven was cared for by the Smith Family Funeral & Cremation Services in TN

James M. Carpenter, age 95, passed away at Winter Haven Hospital in Winter Haven, Florida on April 11, 2025.

He was born on September 26, 1929 in Pearl Creek, New York a son of the late Hollis and Mary Peyton Carpenter.

Jim retired from GTE Sylvania in Batavia as a purchasing agent after 26 years of employment. Following his retirement he worked at Mancuso Bowling Center for many years. He enjoyed bowling, playing golf, visiting Las Vegas and putting together jigsaw puzzles. He was an avid fan of the New York Yankees and Buffalo Bills. He served with the United States Army as a 1st Lieutenant during the Korean War.

He is predeceased by Jean Hoover Swanson, his companion of over 30 years in 1993 and his siblings, Harry Carpenter, Hollis “Lee” Carpenter, Hazel Nicholson, Ruth Laney and Ann White.

Jim is survived by Barbara Kapperman, his companion of 30 years, her daughters, Allison (Dennie) Lougheed and Laura (Thomas) Reding and their families; Jean’s daughters, Autumn Lewis and April (David) Salamone and their families along with several nieces and nephews.

There are no prior visiting hours. Graveside services will be held on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at 1 pm at Warsaw Cemetery. Please consider memorials in his name to the East Pembroke Fire Department, P.O. Box 44, East Pembroke, New York 14056 or Crossroads House, P.O. Box 403, Batavia, New York 14021. Arrangements are under the care and direction of the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, 403 East Main Street, Batavia. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in his name please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Gertrude A. “Gertie” Detine, age 92, passed away peacefully on Mother’s Day, May 11, 2025, at Charlotte House Comfort Care Home in North Java. She was born in Buffalo NY on May 1, 1933, to the late Edmund and Helen (Nowak) Krantz. A beloved sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, Gertie will be remembered for her generosity, humility, wit and warmth.

Gertie grew up on Buffalo’s east side, attending Kensington High School and Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church. After leaving school, she was employed by Westinghouse in Buffalo, contributing to her family’s upkeep and establishing her own independence. After the Korean War, she met veteran Airman John Patrick “Pat” Detine at an evening social. They were married on July 16, 1955, and began raising a family in South Buffalo. The young couple moved to Batavia NY, where Pat had taken a job in Batavia’s Industrial Center. Gertie proudly raised two girls and two boys, nurturing them through school and encouraging them in all their pursuits.

Gertie had many interests and hobbies. She was famed for her baking, spinning out pies, pastries, cookies and other sweet treats that were a highlight of countless family meals and holiday gatherings. Her handiwork in the form of crocheted mitts, hats and blankets kept her family warm during western New York’s winter months. She loved special occasions, particularly when a family member was being honored for a personal achievement or milestone. Gertie’s competitive side came out through her enjoyment of card games and bingo, especially at the Elks Club in Batavia, as well as Yahtzee and casino slots. She and Pat hosted many family get-togethers, often capped off by a spirited game of pinochle, which might be propelled by Carling Black Label long necks and contested well into the evening.

A devout Catholic, Gertie became a member of St. Joseph’s Church after moving to Batavia. She also attended St. Anthony’s Church before settling back into Resurrection Parish. She maintained her faith throughout her life, attending church services until her final months.

Gertie is survived by sisters Annette “Nan” (Ralph) Siedel of Tucson, AZ, and Dorothy “Dottie” Guasto of Plant City, FL, daughters Sharon (Frank) Paparone and Brenda (Vic) Marchese; sons Mark (Karen) Detine and Paul Detine, grandchildren Michael Paparone and Frankie Paparone, Abbey (Brad) Cohen and Billy (Bethany) Barnett, great-grandchildren Michael Paparone Jr., Saibh Barnett and Loughlin Barnett, dear cousin Joan Cholasinski, and many cousins, nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Gertie was preceded in death by husband Pat and daughter-in-law Aine Staunton Barnett.

Friends and family may call on Friday, May 16 from 3-5 p.m. at Gilmartin Funeral Home 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia NY. Everyone is invited to a celebration of Gertie’s life and Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, May 17 at 9:30 a.m. at Resurrection Parish at 303 East Main in Batavia. Following the service Gertie will be laid to rest beside her husband at St. Joseph Cemetery.

Memorials may be made in Gertrude’s name to Charlotte House at 4316 Route 98, North Java, NY 14113 https://www.charlottehousecomfortcare.org. For more information please call (585) 343-8260 or to leave a message of condolence please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home 329-333 West Main Street Batavia, New York 14020.

Robert E. Ely, 69 of Batavia, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 9, 2025 at his home surrounded by his family.

He was born April 9, 1956 in Rochester, NY, a son of the late Robert W. Ely and H. Virginia Day Ely Vellekoop.

Robert was employed by Gemcor prior to his retirement. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father and grandfather. He was always working hard but was a shy and responsible person. He enjoyed computer time and listening to religious audio books and liked to discuss religion and about Jesus Christ. He was an avid sports lover especially baseball and basketball, who will be missed dearly!

He is survived by his wife, Fatima Aparecida Ely of Batavia. Daughters, Gretchen Russell and Emily Davis, both of Batavia. Step-children, Herivelto Stolf Fihlo, Andre Stolf, and Jose Ricardo Stolf, all of Brazil. Grandchildren Leo Russell and Allen Davis Jr.. Siblings, Nancy (Denis) Berwanger of Silver Springs, Susan Schmidt of LeRoy and David (Brenda) Ely of Marietta, GA. Also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are cordially invited to share thoughts, condolences and fond memories on Saturday (May 17^th) from 10am-12pm at the J. Leonard McAndrew Funeral Home, LLC, 2 Bogue Ave., Batavia, where a service will commence at 12pm.

Interment will be in Mumford Cemetery.

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.

Jennie V. Sabb,  of Batavia, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 5, 2025, at the age of 71. Born in Cleveland, Mississippi, on April 14, 1954, Jennie was a beloved mother, sister, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose spirit brought joy to everyone around her.

A devoted member of the United Pentecostal Church in Batavia, Jennie drew great joy from her faith. She loved singing and listening to music and was known for her unwavering love for her church and for the Lord. Her family was, without doubt, her greatest treasure, and she will be remembered as an "encourager" who always found the silver lining. To all who knew her, Jennie was a happy person, full of life, and someone who always saw the cup as "half full."

Jennie is survived by her loving children: Angela M. Spikes of Batavia, Willie A. Sabb, Jr. of Rochester, Patrick O. Spikes, Juan (fiancée Angela) Santiago of Batavia, Phillip (fiancée Rebecca) Santiago of Greece, and Maria (fiancé Robert) Santiago of Batavia. She also leaves behind several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, her siblings Olivia Brown of Elba, Levi (Dorothy) Spikes of Brockport, Oliver Spikes of Williamsville, and Melvin Spikes of Batavia, along with a host of cherished nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Jennie was preceded in death by her parents, Drew Spikes Jr. and Jannie Lee Jackson Spikes, as well as her siblings James Spikes, Drew Spikes, III, Josephine Spikes, Jessie Sanders Spikes, and Marble Nell Spikes.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Jennie's life at the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, 403 East Main Street, Batavia, NY. Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 15, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Friday, May 16, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Her funeral service will follow on Friday, May 16, at 12:00 p.m. at the funeral home. She will be laid to rest in Maple Lawn Cemetery, Elba. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jennie's memory can be made to the United Pentecostal Church, 180 Oak Street, Batavia, New York 14020. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in her memory, please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.