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Obituaries

Mark A. Battaglia

By LaVern Falcone

Stafford ~ Mark A. Battaglia, age 35, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, July 17, 2024.

     He was born April 10, 1989 in Amherst, N.Y., a son of Mark G. Battaglia and Jacqueline Lester.   

Mark Battaglia

  Mark will be remembered as a loving fiancée, father, son, brother, grandson, uncle and dear friend to many.  He was very proud of his children and cherished the time he could spend with them. He will be missed for his sense of humor, his smile, along with his jokes and laughter.  Mark enjoyed fishing, shooting and cars.

     He is survived by his fiancée, Pam Lyons; children, Josie and Camren; parents, Mark (Gina) Battaglia and Jackie (Chris Brown) Lester; siblings, Gregory (Brittany Hart) Battaglia, Rebecca Battaglia, Ryan Brown, Megan (Mike) Robbins and Benjamin Saxe; maternal grandmother, Rosemarie Lester; fiancee’s parents, Sue and Paul Davidson; fiancee’s sister, Donna (Jesse) Peck, along with many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

     Mark was predeceased by his paternal grandparents, Anthony and Rose Battaglia and his maternal grandfather, John Lester.

     Family and friends may call on Wednesday, July 24 from 4 ~ 7 PM at the Falcone Family Funeral & Cremation Service Inc., 8700 Lake St. Rd., LeRoy.  Services will be private.

     In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Mark’s family.

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

Paul E. Merle

By T.J. Woodward
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Paul E. Merle, "Ol' Koot", 72, of Alexander passed away peacefully at his home on July 18, 2024. He was born in Batavia on August 8, 1951 to the late Vernon and Winifred (Straub) Merle. In addition to his parents, Paul is predeceased by his brother; Jake Merle and brother-in-law Jim McMahon.

He is survived by his loving wife; Sheila (McMahon) Merle; son Jason (Amanda) Merle; daughter Jessica (Kris) Kramer; sister Gerry Carmichael; brothers Don (Peggy) Merle, Al Merle and Ed Merle; sister-in-laws Rosanne (Jim) McMahon, and Patricia Carney. Grandchildren Saige (Ryan) Piechocki, Serena (Mike) Lindsay, Mya Merle, Jake Merle, Hailie Kramer, Nick Kramer, Alyssa Kramer, Alexa Merle and Rylie Merle; great-grandchildren Ryan and Rosalie Piechocki; along with nieces, nephews and cousins. 

Paul loved visiting with his grandkids, family and friends, his weekly card games, helping strangers whenever and where ever he was called to, and taking rides to The Last Pasture.

There will be no prior calling hours and Services will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Alexander Fire Department PO Box 336 Alexander, NY 14005. 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.

Judith "Judy" Showerman

By Joshua Smith
Showerman

Batavia- Judith “Judy” Showerman, age 75, passed away on Tuesday, July 16th, 2024 in Batavia, NY at The Grand Rehabilitation and Nursing at Batavia.

She was born on July 30, 1948, in Batavia, NY, to the late George and Alethea (Follett) Showerman. Judy spent 60 of her last 75 years living in the family home at Genesee County Fish and Game Protective Association (Godfrey's Pond).

Judy’s passions included reading and watching true crime stories and listening to all types of music, which was a source of comfort and joy throughout her life. Her love for animals was profound, with her first companion, Peaches, holding a special place in her heart. She had a quick wit, loved to laugh, and her sense of humor was well-known.

Judy is survived by her only daughter, Kimberly (Fred) Amey of Attica; Grandson, Jacob Amey of Attica and special, long-time friend Daryl McCracken. She is also fondly remembered by brother-in-law, Lon Horton of NC, Teague (Courtney) Horton of NC; nephew Trevor (Jennifer) Horton of MN; and extended family and friends within the McCracken family and Godfrey’s Pond Community.

In death Judy is reunited with her parents, George and Alethea Showerman, her only sister, Patricia (Showerman) Horton and beloved grandmother and confidant, Addie (Myers) Showerman.

The family wishes to say a special thank you to the staff at The Grand Rehabilitation and Nursing Home in Batavia. The warm, caring environment was a blessing in Judy’s final 2 years.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Bohm-Calarco-Smith Funeral Home, Batavia, NY. A celebration of life will be held at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Judy’s memory to The Richmond Library - 19 Ross St, Batavia, NY 14020 or Genesee County Fish and Game Protective Association (Godfrey’s Pond).

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

Donald R. Priolo

By Joshua Smith
Priolo

Batavia- Donald R Priolo, aged 72, passed away on July 12, 2024, in his hometown of Batavia, NY at Crossroads House. He was surrounded by his family and loved ones.

He was born on January 25, 1952, in Batavia, NY. A son of the late Paul and Irene Priolo, Donald was a beloved local figure known for his gentle and humble demeanor, and deep love for his family.

Donald graduated from Batavia Senior High in 1971 and proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1972 until 1974, upon his honorable discharge. His passion for military history, especially the Civil War, deepened. After his service, he often shared his extensive knowledge and stories with fellow history enthusiasts.

Donald's legacy continues through his daughter Jamie Shultz (Rick Townley) and his cherished grandchildren, Ricky and Taya (Nic). Survived by his two brothers, Louis (Linda) and David (Bonnie) Priolo, and one sister, Rita (Priolo) Larson, brother-in-law John Karle, and many nieces and nephews.

In death Donald is reunited with his parents, Paul and Irene Priolo; sister, Ann Marie (Priolo) Karle and brother-in-law, Richard Larson.

Donald will be missed by his beloved family and extended family; David and William; nephews Alexander (Danielle), William Jr. (Mina), and predeceased by Ann and George.

Calling hours will be on Friday, September 20, 2024, from 10:00am to 12:00pm at H.E. Turner & Co., Inc. Funeral Home, 403 East Main Street Batavia, NY. Military honors and interment will be on Friday, September 20, 2024 at 1:00pm in Western New York Veteran’s Cemetery at 1:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Crossroads House- 11 Liberty St, Batavia, NY 14020, or the American Cancer Society, honoring Donald's compassionate spirit.

A man who enjoyed the simple pleasures, Donald's mild manner and warm conversations will be missed by all who knew him. Details regarding memorial services will be announced later.

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

Richard F. Dickenson "Dick"

By Ronald Konieczny
Dickenson

Dick passed on peacefully at the VA Medical Center in Batavia on July 17, 2024. Born September 23, 1932 in Lockport, NY, he was the son of William G. and Veronica Ennis Dickenson and stepmother Rowena R Dickenson. He was the brother of Rose D. Mooney of Amherst, NY and Robert P. Dickenson of Nahant, Mass., and the brother of the late Kathryn D. Landrigan, William G. Dickenson Jr., John J. Dickenson, and James B. Dickenson.  Dick gave his time generously to his nieces and nephews. He was the uncle of Daniel Landrigan, Patricia L. Quattrociocci, Kathleen L. Bolin, Maura L. Ruberto, Sheila L. Stoll, Tracey L. Chudzinski, Patrick J. Dickenson, Edward J. Dickenson, William P. Dickenson, Karen D. Robb, Anne D. Koniski, Mark B. Dickenson, Donna M. Simiele, the late James W. Dickenson, Daniel J. Mooney, the late Alberto Mooney, Thomas E. Dickenson, Michael R. Dickenson, Ellen T. Dickenson, and Stephen J. Dickenson.   He was also survived by numerous grand-nieces and grand-nephews.

Dick was the first student to be enrolled at the new DeSales High School in Lockport in 1946.  After graduating, he attended Alfred University, majoring in animal husbandry. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean war, served afterward in the Reserves, and later attended Canisius College. He worked many years for Williams Brothers Department Store and later as a custodian with the Lockport City school district. He was skilled at home remodeling projects and was a great handyman.

Except for brief periods of living in Arizona, Dick was a faithful Western New Yorker.  He was immersed in the history and botany of the area and, to the amazement of his siblings, he seemed to have a photographic memory for facts relating to these areas. He was a curious and enthusiastic learner and demonstrated this in all his various activities.  Dick was a volunteer docent for the Buffalo Zoo and Tifft Farms, and volunteered at the Niagara County Historical Society and the Niagara Discovery Center.  He gave historical tours of Glenwood and Cold Springs cemeteries, road tours of historical spots around Lockport and historical Community Forum interviews airing on LCTV. Dick had extensive knowledge of the history of the Lockport area and served as Lockport City Historian for a time.  He and his late brother Jack hosted a Lockport history talk show on radio station WUSJ.

Dick was physically active and could often be seen riding his bike around Lockport.  In younger years, he was active with the Lockport Ski Club and in later years with the Niagara Canalway annual bike tour. He worked with the Boy Scouts, was active with the Niagara County Democratic Party and served as its president for a time. A highlight of Dick’s life was the summer he spent in Thailand with the family of Duangrat Kathalae, a doctoral nursing student he befriended while she was studying at UB.

Dick will be buried in the Western New York National Cemetery in Corfu, NY, in a private ceremony. He is predeceased by his dogs, Mitzi and Thor, his cat, Rocky, and his bird, Elvis. 

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.

 

 

William W. Schurr, Jr.

By Joshua Smith
Schurr

Orangeville -  71 of Warsaw passed away on Tuesday, July 16, 2024 at Wyoming Co. Community Hospital.

Mr. Schurr was born January 15, 1953 in Batavia, a son of the late William W. Schurr Sr. and Lorraine (Jerger) Schurr. Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister Kathy Dominick.

Bill, as he was called by friends and family, was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying mostly bass fishing and deer hunting.  He was a retired officer from Attica Correctional Facility where he worked for 27 years.  He was an extremely hard worker and skilled in many trades.  Bill was also a giving person who would help anyone in need.  Bill loved spending time with his family, especially during holidays and summer picnics.  He was an amazing Poppi to his four grandchildren. He enjoyed attending their sporting and academic events.

He was married for nearly 49 years to Tonigail Marie (Warner) Schurr.  They enjoyed camping, traveling, and spending time together with family.  He is also survived by his son Joshua (Sarah) Schurr of Warsaw; his daughter Kelly (Christopher) Pappas of North Tonawanda; sister Karen (Tony) Orlando of North Fort Myers, FL; brother John "Jack" (Brenda) Schurr of Batavia; brother-in-law Michael Dominick of Attica; his grandchildren Tristan, Madalyn, Griffin, and Allison; many nieces, nephews, and friends.  

Bill's Celebration of Life will begin with our annual family golf tournament on Saturday, August 3rd at Quiet Times Golf Course in Attica at 8:30am with a reception immediately following.  Please contact the family to RSVP for golf and/or the reception by Saturday, July 27th. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation of blood or platelets to your preferred blood bank.

Arrangements are being completed by the Robinson and Hackemer Funeral Home, 246 North Main Street in Warsaw.  Online condolences at www.robinsonandhackemer.com.

Miss Marian R. Green

By Joshua Smith
Green

Marian Ruth Green, age 89 entered into rest on July 5, 2024 at Premier Genesee Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation in Batavia, New York.

Marian was the daughter of the late Wilbur C. Green and Mildred R. (Myers) Green born on August 9, 1934 at the family home in Alabama, New York.

Following her graduation from Akron Central School in 1952, she became an educational secretary in the elementary school of the Akron Central School district until her retirement in 1994. In 1946 Marian along with her parents and her brother became members of the Alabama United Methodist Church. She took an active part in the church and served on many committees. Marian was also a Sunday School teacher for many years. She was president of the Erie County Educational Office Professionals and also an active member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Alabama Fire Department. Marian loved her home and carried on a tradition started by her mother of decorating their home for all the holidays. Christmas was exceptional.

Marian was predeceased by her dad, in 1972, her mother, in 2003, her only sibling, Charles W. Green in 2013, her sister-in-law, Shirley Green in 2004 and nephew, Mark C. Green in 2023.

She is survived by her niece, Sheri L. Green of Alabama; her nephew, Todd A. (Ginny) Green; great nephew, Nathaniel Green; and great niece, Tiffany Green.

Friends are encouraged to call on Tuesday, July 30, 2024 from 9:30 am to 11:00 am at the Alabama & Basom Methodist Church located at 1392 Church Street in Alabama, New York where services will immediately follow at 11 am. Marian will be laid to rest in the family plot in the Alabama Cemetery following services. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Alabama & Basom Methodist Church, 1392 Church Street, Alabama, New York 14013. Please leave a condolence, share a story, or light a candle at www.burdettadsanford.com.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Burdett & Sanford Funeral Home.

John Gerard DelPlato

By T.J. Woodward
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John Gerard DelPlato, 71, of Sodus, NY, formerly of Batavia, entered Heaven's land to be with his Lord and Savior for all eternity. He died of a cerebral hemorrhage on July 5, 2024 at Rochester General Hospital with loved ones by his side.  He was born on August 22, 1952, a son of the late Daniel and Mary (Marcello) DelPlato. He is also predeceased by his baby sister; Christine and brother Vincenzo.

He is survived by his sister; Mary E. DelPlato of Batavia; brothers Frank DelPlato of Oneonta, Charley DelPlato (Linda Payne), Daniel, Joseph, Michael (Bridget Barker) DelPlato all of Batavia; Carmen (Debbie Sperring) DelPlato of Williamson; nieces and nephews; James, Anthony, Richard, Sophia, Danielle, Jonathan, Marcella (Alan Quintana) Joseph and Theo, also survived by his godparents; Al and Gloria Sardo of Virginia; along with many cousins.

All through his adult life he had to deal with schizophrenia.  During his youthful years, John excelled at baseball, whether it was youth baseball or high school. His most memorable moment was pitching a no hitter in Little League.  He liked to bowl and participated in the high school drama club.  Every chance he had, he would tell others about Jesus. John was given the gift of songwriting. He expressed his faith through his music. He wrote over a 100 songs.  A CD of some of his Christian songs was made with the help of his nephew Anthony and sold at Roxy’s music store. To honor his memory, consider attending a church service this weekend.

As per John’s wishes, his body was donated to the UB Anatomical Gift program. A Memorial Service is planned for Saturday, October 5, 2024 at Ascension Church at 9:30am. 

Memorials may be made to a charity of your choice.  Click this link to listen to some of John’s Christian and secular songs. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RRpnf9kt-d8&list=PL1VMu0z9oTjvcPVzib9zi305ym0TXqsry  

To leave a message of condolence please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.comArrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home 329-333 West Main Street Batavia, New York 14020.

Elizabeth C. Fodge, "Betty"

By Joshua Smith
Elizabeth C. Fodge

Elizabeth C. Fodge, "Betty," 94, of LeRoy and formerly of Churchville, passed away on July 13, 2024 at the LeRoy Village Green Nursing Home.

Elizabeth was born January 12, 1930 in Rochester, a daughter of the late David and Emma (Trott) Breckler.

Betty loved baseball, playing bingo, embroidering and a good breakfast.  She was a member of the American Legion for 19 years and will be remembered as a caring person.

Surviving are her son, Rick (Julie) Paris; daughter, Robin Essiq; stepdaughter, Ruth (Richard) Fodge; stepson, James (Sheila) Fodge; a sister, Marilyn (Jim) Hamman and several grandchildren, great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by her husband, Charlie Fodge; stepdaughter, Maureen Fodge; brothers, David (Margaret) Breckler and Robert (Char) Breckler and a sister, Ruth Henhart.

Calling hours are Friday, July 19 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, 51 South Lake Ave., Bergen, where services will be held at 1:00 p.m. also on Friday.  She will be laid to rest in Creekside Cemetery, Churchville.  

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Le Roy Village Green Nursing Home, Attn: Activities Fund, 10 Munson Street, Le Roy, NY 14482 or the Alzheimer's Association, www.alz.org.  

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

Walter (Wally) D. Johnson

By LaVern Falcone

Walter (Wally) D. Johnson, age 73, of LeRoy, NY, passed away Sunday, July 14, 2024 at Crossroads House in Batavia. 

     After serving with the U.S. Army as a combat medic overseas during the Vietnam war, Wally ran his masonry business for nearly 50 years. 

     In addition to his parents, Robert and Neva Gage Johnson, Wally is predeceased by his son, Matthew and sisters, Marjorie and Marie. 

     He is survived by his loving wife, Mary; son, Eric (Robin), daughter, Jackie; grandchildren, Quinn and Kyle; sister, Judy Zirbes; brother, Fred Johnson and many nieces and nephews. 

     Family and friends may call on Sunday, July 21 from 2 ~ 5 PM at the Falcone Family Funeral & Cremation Service Inc., 8700 Lake St. Rd., LeRoy.

     Memorial contributions in memory of Wally are suggested to Crossroads House, P.O. Box 403, Batavia, N.Y. 14021   www.crossroadshouse.com

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

Kenneth A. Haacke

By Joshua Smith
Ken

Oakfield - Kenneth L. Haacke, age 78, passed away on Saturday, July 13, 2024 at Hildebrandt Hospice in Rochester.

He was born on October 20, 1945, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, a son of the late Norman and Mae Haacke.

He grew up in Muskego, Wisconsin. After high school, he attended the University of Wisconsin on a wrestling scholarship. In 1967, he joined the United States Army attaining the rank of Lieutenant and serving in Vietnam.

On October 31, 1970 he married the love of his life Mary Ann Groden. They stay married for 53 years, raising their three children.

He retired from the New York State Department of Corrections as a Sergeant. He also owned and operated Rainbow Ridge Game Farm for 30 years.

He loved the outdoors, particularly hunting and fishing, which he shared with his children and grandchildren. He was in his happy place behind a good bird dog or on a boat with a fishing rod in his hand.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Mary Ann Groden Haacke; sons,Chris (Melissa) Haacke of Oakfield and Jason (Karen) Haacke of Bradenton, Florida; his beautiful granddaughters, Emma, Lily and Madeline.

He is predeceased by his daughter, Kendra Leeann Haacke, who passed away on April 17, 2014, his parents, his brother and his father-in-law and mother-in-law.

There are no prior visiting hours. Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. Please consider memorial donations in his name to the Haxton Memorial Library, 3 North Pearl Street, Oakfield, New York 14125. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in his name, please visit www.burdettandsanford.com.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of the Burdett & Sanford Funeral Home, 11 Maple Avenue, Oakfield.

Crystal Marie Bouter

By T.J. Woodward

 

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Crystal Marie Bouter (Bush), 35, of Batavia passed away suddenly on June, 27, 2024. She was born on February 6, 1989 to Jon and Cindy Bush. 

She will be dearly missed by her parents; brothers Jon Bush Jr. and Cody Bush. 

There will be no prior calling hours and Services for remembering Crystal held at a later date. Family and friends can call 585-993-3900 or 585-483-4130 for more information on her Service. 

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.

Linda L. Horner

By T.J. Woodward
l

Linda L. Horner, of Corfu, passed away on Saturday July 13, 2024 at the Harris Hill Nursing Facility in Williamsville. She was born on August 29, 1942 in Troy, Pennsylvania to the late Lester and Marian (Reynolds) Robert. In addition to her parents, Linda is predeceased by her husband; Kenneth J. Horner Sr.; son Michael Horner; daughter Sharon Horner; brothers Wayne and Charles Robert.

She is survived by her children; Kenneth (Kim) Horner Jr., Ronnie Haight, David (Erin) Horner, Terry (Steven) Dick, Donna Mileham, Cathy (Richard) Happ and Cheryl Dieterle; significant other Paul George; sister Niesa (late Jerry) Jennings; 22 grandchildren, along with many great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. 

Family and friends may call on Thursday July 18, 2024 from 11:00AM-2:00PM at Gilmartin Funeral Home 329-333 West Main St. Batavia, NY 14020. An 11:00AM Funeral Service will be held Friday July 19th at the Funeral Home. Linda will be laid to rest in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Alexander.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Donor’s choice. 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.

Donna Maria DeAngelo Fauth

By Lisa Ace

Donna Maria DeAngelo Fauth, Age 62, passed away on Thursday, July 11th, 2024 due to illness. She was born February 18th, 1962 in Binghamton, NY to Arcadio and Joan DeAngelo.

Donna is survived by her husband Jeff Fauth, daughters Traci Schubert (Chris) and Lindsi Fauth, and granddaughters Addyson and Blayke Schubert.

Donna was a devoted wife mother and grandmother. Donna treasured her granddaughters and embraced every moment with them. All will greatly miss her compassionate personality, witty humor, and undying love and caring for them.

There are no calling hours. Services will be at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements were made by C. B. Beach and Son Mortuary, Inc., Corfu, NY

Raymond G. Skaine

By Ronald Konieczny
Skaine

Raymond G. Skaine, 84 of Clarence, NY, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 10, 2024 at Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital.

He was born August 8, 1939 in Monongahela, PA, a son of the late James and Ruth Stamper Skaine.

Survivors include his wife of 65 years, Sandra Markham Skaine of Clarence. Children, Tracey (Alan) Burns of Missouri, Becky (Chuck) Heller of Minnesota and Lincoln Skaine of Massachusetts. He is also survived by 7 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.

Family and friends are cordially invited to a Celebration of Life Service on Saturday, July 20th, 11:00am at the Clarence Global Methodist Church, 10205 Greiner Rd, Clarence, NY.

Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.mcandrewfuneralhomes.net. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ray's name to Habitat for Humanity of Western, NY.

ARRANGEMENTS WERE ENTRUSTED TO THE J. LEONARD McANDREW FUNERAL HOME, LLC, 32 JOHN ST., AKRON, NY 14001. RONALD KONIECZNY II, DIRECTOR.

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