Obituaries

James Leslie Williams (Luke), age 77, of Churchville, passed away peacefully on July 25, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Born on October 28, 1946, in Batavia, New York. Jim lived a life marked by dedication to service, love for his family, and passion for shooting.  

   As a young man, Jim proudly served his country in the United States Army. After completing his military service, he returned home and dedicated over 40 years to a career in the Tool and Dye Industry.

     Jim was more than a veteran and a Tool and Die maker; he was a devoted life partner and father. Preceded in death by his parents, James H. Williams and Genevieve (Antinore) Williams. He is survived by his beloved life partner of 30 years, Juanita Lovria; his son, James (Dyane) Williams, brother, Gary (Luke) and Ginnie Williams, nieces and nephews, Leah (Harold) White, Gary J. Williams, Tracy (Timothy) Kehoe, and several great nieces and nephews. Jim was a pillar of strength and a beacon of unconditional love for his family.

     He was an active member of his local Legion 575, the Northwoods Sportsman’s Association Inc. and a mentor to veterans. Jim never lost his drive to support his brothers and sisters in arms. He spent countless hours volunteering, sharing stories, and lending a compassionate ear to those who needed it most. His community involvement extended to The National Honor Guard, where he played a major role in recruiting new members, who have performed over 400 funerals at the WNY National Cemetery.

     Jim had a passion for the outdoors and could often be found fishing at the local lake. His wisdom, warmth, and generous spirit touched everyone who knew him.

     Family and friends may call on Monday, July 29 from 11 AM ~ 1 PM at the Falcone Family Funeral & Cremation Service Inc, 8700 Lake St. Rd. (Rt. 19), LeRoy. Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 PM at Stone Church Presbyterian Church, 7549 S. Lake Rd. (Rt. 19), Bergen, followed by interment at Stone Church Cemetery with military honors. 

     In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Crossroads House, 11 Liberty St., P.O. Box 403, Batavia, NY 14021 in Jim's memory. www.crossroadshouse.com

     James Leslie William's legacy of service, love, and kindness will forever remain in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

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

On Monday, July 8, Cheryl E. Hobbs, 70, of Le Roy, NY, passed away unexpectedly at Unity Hospital, with her daughter, Amy (Hobbs) Mayne, and son in law, Dan Mayne at her side.   

   A longtime employee of Dr. Lapple (Place Eye Care), many will remember her kind and caring ways as she made each person feel seen, heard, and valued. She is survived by 7 granddaughters, 1 grandson, 1 great-grandaughter, a great-grandson arriving soon, and many nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her husband, Steven Stappenbacher, her former husband, Earl Hobbs, her parents, Hugh and Doris Hartgrove of Pavilion, NY, and her siblings Patricia (Fritz), Robert, Linda, Edward, and Marcia.

     A quiet woman in public, Cheryl had a delightful sense of humor that came out with those she knew best; she could get us laughing to tears. She passed on her love of dancing, cooking, reading, giving funny voices to pets, creativity, sewing, crafting, birdwatching, and gift giving. Her listening ear, tender heart, and deep wisdom will be greatly missed until we see her again in heaven. 

     A private gathering will be held at the family’s convenience. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to www.bluemoonmeadows.org/donate.html in her honor. (This is a rescue organization for orphaned pets.)

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

Helen L. Pratt, 82, of Oakfield, passed away on Wednesday July 24, 2024 at the United Memorial Medical Center. She was born in Batavia on November 21, 1941 to the late Lloyd and Josephine (Almond) Washburn. In addition to her parents, Helen is predeceased by her husband; Richard C. Pratt; daughter Stacey Pratt. 

She is survived by her children; Cindy (David) Meier of Alexander, Betty (Jesse) Van Dorn of FL., Rhonda (Wesley) Fraley of NC., and Johna Miller of Angola; sister Eleanor (late Ira) McCoy of Elba; 21 grandchildren, along with many great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. 

Helen worked for 24 years at St. Jerome’s Hospital as a Housekeeper. She loved family gatherings, going out to eat, her flowers, watching NCIS and was a huge collector of all kinds of knick-knacks. She was a former member of the Batavia City Church. 

Friends and family are invited to call on Tuesday, July 30, 2024 from 12:00-1:00PM at Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, New York 14020. A 1:00PM Funeral Service will immediately follow visitation at the Funeral Home.

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.

Ellene Walker, 87, of Batavia passed away on July 22, 2024 at Premier Genesee Nursing Home. She was born in Buffalo on October 5, 1936 to Alfred and Evelyn Guy. 

She is survived by her children; Eldon John (Jennifer) Farrington Jr., Jeffrey Farrington, Richard Farrington, Gregory Farrington, Keith Farrington, Kevin Farrington, Cheryl (Patrick) Coonen and Erin Farrington.

There will be no prior calling hours. A 10:30AM Graveside Service will be held on Friday July 26, 2024 at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Batavia. 

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.

Elmer D. Andrews, 71, of East Aurora, formerly of Geneseo, passed away on July 10, 2024 at Absolute Care Nursing Facility. He was born in Batavia on May 28, 1953 to Mrs. And Mrs. Warren Andrews. 

Elmer was a Heavy Equipment Operator at The Dolomite Group in Gates for many years and was a United States Navy veteran. 

There will be no prior calling hours. A 1:00PM Graveside Service will be held on Monday July 29^th at the Western New York National Cemetery in Corfu. 

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.

Gay P. Dyrbala, 66 of Alexander, went home to her Lord and Savior on Sunday (July 21, 2024) at United Memorial Medical Center.

She was born January 16, 1958 in Batavia, a daughter of the late Leslie and Joyce Wienke Gabbey.

Gay graduated from Pembroke High School in 1976 and then attended Marion S. Whelon School of Nursing. She was a devoted nurse at United Memorial Medical Center for 47 years. She was a member of Grace Baptist Church, as well as a lifetime member of the WNY Gas and Steam Engine Association. She was an avid reader and enjoyed her crossword puzzle books and watching the birds at her feeder.

She is survived by her loving husband of 42 years, Ronald W. Dyrbala and their eight children, Patricia (Andrew) Bunk, Rebecca (David) Bartz, Joshua (Ashley) Dyrbala, Amanda (Justin) Cole, Peter (LeAnne) Dyrbala, Elizabeth (Eric) Augustyn, Zachary (Kaitlyn) Dyrbala, and Joseph (Emma Nugent) Dyrbala. Her grandchildren, Paisley, Lucas, Maddison, Kaitlyn, Hannah, Chloe, Hailey, Brayden, Harrison, Waylon and Peter Jr. “PJ”. She also leaves behind her three loving dogs Yukon, Morty and Sadie, along with her grand pups Buster, Archie, and Charlie. Gay is also survived by her sister Faith and brothers Guy and Mark, along with many nieces and nephews.

She is predeceased by her grandson Peyton Leslie and nephew Jeremy Gabbey.

Family and friends are cordially invited to share thoughts, condolences and fond memories on Sunday (July 28^th) from 2-5:30pm at the Grace Baptist Church, 238 Vine St, Batavia, NY, where a funeral service will be Monday at 10am. She will be laid to rest in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Alexander, NY.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be offered to 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, DIRECTOR.

Marilyn W. Donahue, 92 of Batavia, passed away on Friday, July 19, 2024 at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester. She was born November 13, 1931 in Batavia, to the late Clifford and Evelyn (Bartlett) Wood. She is preceded in death by her brother Charles Wood.

Mrs. Donahue graduated from Batavia High School in 1949. She retired from Batavia City School District, and was passionate about education and focused on helping children. Marilyn loved her time with Batavia High School Choristers under the direction of Frank Owen and she volunteered with Batavia Band Boosters.

She is survived by her sons, Rev. Dr. Bradley Donahue (Gayle) of Ohio and Jeffrey Donahue of Batavia, NY; three grandchildren, Matthew Donahue (Jill), Kathleen Barone (Ben) and Marc Donahue; four great-grandchildren, Lillian Barone, Veronica Barone, Isabel Donahue, and Wesley Donahue. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Linda Wood and several cousins.

The family will receive friends beginning at 3:00 pm until the time of the service at 4:00 p.m. The Celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, August 3, 2024 at The City Church, 210 East Main Street, Batavia, NY 14020. She will be laid to rest in Grand View Cemetery, Batavia. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Charles Wood Study at The City Church. 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. 

Josephine R. Jackett, 75, of Batavia passed away on July 20, 2024 at the United Memorial Medical Center. She was born in Batavia on November 13, 1948 to the late John and Alice (Houck) Torcello. In addition to her parents, Josephine is predeceased by her brothers; John and James Torcello; grandson Riley Ohlson.

She is survived by her husband; Eugene Jackett; daughters Sondra Olcott and Lori (Ron) Haas; grandchildren Dora DeVay, Kaleb Haas and Bela Olcott; along with her niece Brooke Torcello. 

Josie was a bit of a medical miracle, having had the first open heart surgery on a child at Buffalo Children’s Hospital in 1959 at the age of 11. She served school lunches at Jackson School for over 20 years and after retiring from the school she worked at the Batavia Walmart for 25 years. Josie was a lifelong Buffalo Bills fan and a lover of horses which she instilled in her daughters. She adored all animals but had a special place for her furry companions Boris, Bagel and Freddie who were always by her side, along with her grand pup, Ember. Josie adored her grandchildren loved her work family too and they loved their JoJo.

Friends and family are invited to call on Saturday August 3, 2024 from 3:00 to 6:00pm at Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, New York 14020. A closing Prayer will follow visitation at the Funeral Home. 

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.

Albion/Bergen: Gerald P. “Jerry” Claus, age 61 passed away July 21, 2024 at the Martin Linsin Hospice Residence in Albion. He was born May 10, 1963 in Rochester to the late Gerald and Catherine (Messmer) Claus.

Jerry worked for RG&E for over 40 years and in his spare time enjoyed hunting, fishing, 4-wheeling, snowmobiling and anything that had to do with the great outdoors.

Jerry is survived by his son Troy (fiancé Lexie Patterson) Claus, granddaughter Charlotte Claus, former spouse and mother of Troy, Carol Claus, sister, Elizabeth (Jeff) Aradine, nephew Jeffrey (Bethany) Aradine, niece Jenna Aradine, great-nieces Kate and Abby Aradine, his two dogs Shadow and Dyson as well as many friends.

Jerry’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 21 West Ave. Albion, NY 14411 on Saturday, July 27th from 1:00-3:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Jerry’s name may be made to Hospice of Orleans, 14080 Route 31 Albion, NY 14411.

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

Jerry K. Drayer of Geneva, NY, formerly of Akron, NY, passed away suddenly Saturday July 20, 2024 at the age of 82.

 Jerry is survived by his wife, Jane C. Drayer; sons, Steven (Linda) Drayer, Kevin (Mary Beth) Drayer; daughter, Kristen (Gerry) Charles; stepsons, Christopher (Katy) Connolly and Michael (Beth) Connolly; 12 grandchildren, Gianna and Matthew (Steve), Chelsea, Gabrielle, Zach and Julia (Kevin), Jaxson and Ava (Kristen), Evan and Brendan (Chris) and William and Christopher (Michael).

Jerry was a history teacher and multi-sport coach at Akron Central for 37 years coaching young men and women in Wrestling, Cross Country and Track and Field. He is best known for his Akron teams wrestling achievements winning numerous Niagara Orleans League titles and most recently with being inducted into the Western New York Wrestling Hall of Fame. Jerry continued coaching high school wrestling at Waterloo High School for 16 additional years after retiring from Akron in 1998, compiling into a 53 year coaching career in the sport he loved most.

Friends and family may call THURSDAY July 25th from 4-7 at Miller Funeral and Cremation Services, Inc. (3325 Winton Rd. S, Rochester, NY 14623) and on FRIDAY July 26th from 10 AM to 1 PM at the J. Leonard McAndrew Funeral Home, LLC (32 John St., Akron, NY 14001). Interment will be private.

There will be a Memorial Service honoring Jerry and his contributions to the Akron Central School District in August. Dates and details will be released. There is also an annual scholarship fund being established in Jerry’s name that will be associated with Akron Central School to memorialize his love of wrestling.

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

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

Robert C. Funke, 82 of Basom, passed away on Sunday, July 21, 2024 at Buffalo General Hospital. He was born October 20, 1941 in Batavia, a son of the late Robert and Elizabeth (Kelsey) Funke. Besides his parents, he is preceded in death by his first wife, Eileen (O’Brien) Funke who passed away on October 18, 1997.

Bob was raised in East Pembroke and graduated from Corfu High School in 1959. He served in the United States Air Force from 1960 until 1964. Upon his honorable discharge, he went to work for Rochester Telephone where he worked for 36 years.

Bob traveled extensively in the United States, Canada and Europe. His travels included 5 of the continents. He loved to read, play cards, spent many hours working in his yard. He was active with Men’s Group at St. Padre Pio Parish where he was honored to receive the St. Joseph the worker award. Bob especially loved his grand kids. Teaching them card games, playing golf, and attending their many scholastic and athletic events.

Survivors include his wife, Christine (Shoureck/Bigger); daughter Vaune (Doug) Kopeck of Maryland; two sons, Todd (Gina) Funke of North Carolina and Brocton Funke of Buffalo. He is also survived by two step-daughters, Melissa (Brett) Domoy of Basom and Jessica (Robert) Windhausen of Cato, grandchildren; Logan Kopeck, Joshua Kopeck, Justin Funke, Allyson Funke, Connor Domoy, Mackenzie Domoy, Gavin Windhausen, Dakota Windhausen, great-grandson Carson Kopeck; and a sister Connie Wortman. Bob is also survived by many nieces, nephews and extended family members.

Friends and family are invited to call on Wednesday, July 24, 2024 from 4 to 7pm at Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, New York 14020. A 10:00am Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, July 25, 2024 at St. Padre Pio Parish, 56 Maple Ave., Oakfield, NY 14125. He will be laid to rest in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Batavia. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Crossroads House, PO Box 403, Batavia, NY 14020 or to Genesee-Orleans Ministry of Concern, 29 E. State St., Albion, NY 14411. 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. 

On July 20, 2024, Robert A. (Bob) Carlsen Jr. went home to be with the Lord.  He is survived by his loving wife, Grace, of almost 72 years.  Robert is predeceased by his daughter, Rebecca Buck.  He is survived by his son, David (Cathie) of Pavilion, daughter Jennifer (Bill) of East Pembroke, and Son-in-law Michael Buck of Batavia.

He leaves behind seven Grandchildren; Cassandra (John) Carlsen-Bakker, Robert (Brittany) Buck, Ryan (Carley) Buck, Carissa (Kyle) Carlsen-Trevas, Ken (Kelley) MacGregor, Josh (Jacqueline) MacGregor, Douglas (Kassandra) Carlsen, as well as seven great-grandchildren.

Robert is predeceased by two brothers, Duane & Gary. He is survived by two sisters, Linda (Brian) Canfield, and Brenda (Clarence) Korabek.  

Robert was a lifelong member of the East Bethany Presbyterian Church.  He served on the board of Elders as well as the board of Trustees.  

Robert served in the Army and spent one year in Korea.  In 1972, he and Grace purchased Derrick Monument Co. and worked there with his son and granddaughter until his retirement.  He was an assessor for the Town of Stafford for many years. He also served as Superintendent of Stafford Cemetery and President of Elmwood Cemetery in Batavia.  

He was an avid sports fan, especially the New York Yankees.  Over the years, he, along with his family, traveled to many ball parks to watch them play.  

Robert was a Husband, Father, Grandfather, Businessman, and Friend. He will be missed.

Visitation will be held at the East Bethany Presbyterian Church, 5735 Ellicott St. Road, East Bethany, on Saturday, July 27th at 10:00 am with the funeral to follow at 11:30.  Following the service, the family invites you to a luncheon in the fellowship hall.  His internment with military honors will be held at Stafford Rural Cemetery at 3pm.    

Memorials can be made in his memory to the East Bethany Presbyterian church.

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

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

Attica - Marilyn W. Spencer, 92 of Attica passed away on Thursday, (July 18, 2024) at Gateway Home in Attica.

Mrs. Spencer was born May 28, 1932 in Auburn, a daughter of the late Frederick E. and Philomena (Rafferty) Walsh.

Marilyn was a parishioner of SS. Joachim & Anne Parish - St. Vincent's Worship Site in Attica for many years. A true caregiver, Mrs. Spencer babysat for numerous children while raising her own family. Once her children were grown, Marilyn went to nursing school, becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse, and worked at St. Jerome's and United Memorial Medical Center prior to her retirement. Nursing was her passion her entire adult life.

Mrs. Spencer enjoyed bowling at Attica Lanes and Mancuso's. But most of all, she cherished every moment spent with her family. She will be remembered as a kind and caring wife, mother, grandmother, and sister.

Surviving are her children, Steven (Patricia) Spencer of Attica, Deborah (late Jerry) Smith of Texas, Cynthia Spencer of Attica, and Kim (Joseph Sauka) Spencer of Darien. 14 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great-grandchildren along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins also survive.

Marilyn in reunited in death with her parents; husband, Jack Spencer; son, Kevin Spencer; brother, Frederick "Bob" Walsh; sisters, Judith Merill, Bonita Glosson, and Patricia Schwelkard.

Family and friends are invited to attend Marilyn's Graveside Service at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday (July 25, 2024) at St. Vincent's Cemetery, Exchange Street in Attica. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Gateway Home, 91 Main Street, Attica, New York 14011.

Arrangements were entrusted to the care of Marley Funeral Home, 135 Main Street in Attica. Online condolences at www.marleyfuneralhome.com.

Elba - William D. Hart, 77 of Elba  passed away on Friday, (July 19, 2024) at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester.

Mr. Hart was born July 1, 1947 in Batavia, a son of the late Howard and Dorothy (Day) Hart.

Bill/Dad was a very special prankster with a very special talent for making people laugh. He could talk about anything to anyone, especially related to the great outdoors.

Bill is survived by his wife, Joyce (Lawrence) Hart of Elba; children, Kelly (Ken) Smith of Middleburg, Florida, and Ryan Hart of Elba; grandchildren, Carsyn Smith, Carter Smith, and Justin Hart; brother, Greg (Sharon) Hart of Berryville, Virginia. Nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends also survive.

Family and friends are invited to call on Saturday, (July 27, 2024)  from 10 to11:00 am  at Indian Falls Global Methodist Church, 7908 Alleghany Road, Corfu where Bill's Memorial Service will immediately follow visitation at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Elba Fire Department, 7143 Oak Orchard Road, Elba, New York 14058 or Volunteers for Animals, PO Box 1621, Batavia, New York 14020.  

Arrangements 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.

Susanne M. Welch, age 90, a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, and friend passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 17, 2024 while in Comfort Care at Sisters of Charity of Hospital in Buffalo.

She was born November 5,1933 in Salamanca, a daughter of the late Daniel and Beatrice Fee Duhan, one of 19 children.

She was married to Joseph P. Welch for 57 years before his passing in November 2013.

Sue’s love to and devotion for family was unparalleled and she often expressed this through the time she spent with them, the care she provided, the cookies she baked and the happiness she found in life’s simple pleasure. Her joy was without measure with the arrival of each of her 18 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.

St. Joseph Parish in Batavia was an important place to her throughout her entire adult life where she enjoyed daily mass and then out to breakfast with her wonderful coffee club friends. All of her children attended St. Joseph School, were baptized and confirmed at St. Joseph’s. Sue was a member of the Ladies Sodality at the Church and for many years helped with the Catholic Charities Appeal.

She was a loyal sports enthusiast watching children and grandchildren in the gyms and on the playing fields and also cheering for her beloved Buffalo Bills. Sue worked as an election inspector for many years as well as working the national Census three times.

She is survived by her children, Joseph Welch, Jr. of Batavia, Julie (Doug) Burt of Cuba, Mary Ellen (Bob) Zickl of Batavia, Kathleen Carr of Cheektowaga, Eileen Zilliox of Webster; Sheila Woodrich of Oakfield and Peggy (Dan) Welch-Ireland of Bergen; grandchildren, Matthew Welch; Susie, Sarah and Joanna Burt; Sean and Katie Czaja, Meghan, Joe and Jim Zickl; Danny Carr; Hannah and Brett Zilliox; Haley, Emily and Caitlin Woodrich; and Zach, Adam and Josh Swapceinski; 9 great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Sue’s family would like to thank the wonderful staff of Sisters of Charity Hospital in Buffalo, especially the 4th floor staff who helped her so much in her last days.

Friends may call on Friday from 4 pm to 7 pm at the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, 403 East Main Street, Batavia. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday at 9:30 am at St. Joseph's Church, 303 East Main Street, Batavia. She will be laid to rest in St. Joseph's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift in her name to St. Joseph's Regional School of Batavia Foundation, 2 Summit Street, Batavia, New York 14020. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in her memory please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.