Skip to main content

Obituaries

Richard J. Becker Jr.

By Ronald Konieczny

becker_richard.jpg
Richard J. Becker Jr, age 65, of Batavia NY, passed away in his home unexpectedly on January 22, 2023. Rich, as he was known by those close to him, was born on May 16th, 1957, in the City of Batavia, New York to Richard and Pauline (Wickens) Becker. 

Rich graduated from Batavia High School in 1975, he went on to serve in the United States Air Force from 1978 until 1982, as an Airman 1st Class (A1C) in the role of Security Specialist.  Richard graduated from GCC in 1988 with an associate degree in General Studies Art and Science.  Rich worked at Genesee Farms for several years until they closed. Richard dedicated much of his time to caring for his elderly father and his aunt, Helen Krantz.  Rich was a very special son, brother, nephew, uncle, and friend, he was always there for his family anytime they needed him without hesitation or complaint.  Rich was a music connoisseur of all genres ranging from blues and jazz to rock and roll, additionally, he enjoyed classic films, television, and animation.  Rich loved animals, his favorite of which were the many cats he had over the years, he also enjoyed spending much of his free-time visiting flea markets and antique dealers around Western NY as well as assisting his close friend Mary, with her various shops and sales. 

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Pauline Becker, his aunt, Helen Krantz, and his brother-in-law Kenneth Sovocool. He is survived by his sister Kathryn Sovocool, his nephews, Bryan Bartholomew of Batavia, and Daniel Bartholomew of Scottsville, his great niece and nephew, Aryanna and Jaxon Bartholomew as well as his long-time friend Mary Holmes.  

Services will be held 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.

 

 

Mr. Henry M. Hough

By Joshua Smith

Batavia – Henry M. Hough, age 82, passed away on Sunday, February 5, 2023 at his home surrounded by his loving family while under the care of HomeCare & Hospice.

He was born on January 22, 1941, in Batavia, a son of the late Elmer and Gladys Wright Hough.

A longtime employee of the Batavia City School District, Henry proudly served his country with the United States Air Force. A devoted and active member of Batavia Assembly of God Church, he enjoyed the Forever Young dinners that were held at church. He loved traveling, especially going on cruises. He will be remembered by his family as a devoted husband, father, grandfather and brother. He always kept himself busy working two or three jobs to provide for them.  

Henry is predeceased by his wife, Nancy J. Luthart Hough who passed away on May 29, 2016 and his siblings, Richard Hough, Esther Hough and Douglas A. Hough.

He is survived by his sons, Mark H. (Pamela) Hough of Batavia, James A. (Debra Baker) Hough of Batavia and Matthew J. (Vicki) Hough of Rochester; five grandchildren, Aaron Hough, Brandi and Morgan Hough and Olivia and Faith Hough; two great-grandchildren, Anaya Richardson and Jenna Hough; his siblings, Rosemary Nobles of Batavia, Estelle Howe of Batavia, Donna Hough of Batavia and Paul (Dawn) Hough of Elba; special nephew, Mike Freyburger along with other nieces and nephews.

Friends may call on Friday from 4 pm to 7 pm at the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, 403 East Main Street, Batavia. His funeral service will be held on Saturday at 10 am at Batavia Assembly of God Church, 24 North Spruce Street, Batavia. Burial, along with military honors, will follow in Elmwood Cemetery, Batavia. Memorials in his name may be made to Batavia Assembly of God Church, 24 North Spruce Street, Batavia, New York 14020. To send a condolence, share a story or light a candle in his memory, please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Lucia M. Costantino

By Joshua Smith

Lucia M. Costantino, 89, of Batavia, passed away on February 6, 2023 at Brothers of Mercy Nursing Home in Clarence.

Lucia was born January 6, 1934 in Oakfield, a daughter of the late Dominic and Ida (Comino) Moretti.

Lucia was a member of Ascension Parish and a former deputy clerk for the Town of Batavia.  She enjoyed reading and spending time with her grandchildren.  Lucia will be remembered for being a phenomenal cook.  

Surviving are her husband, Cosmo Costantino; children, Holly (Greg) Sharpe and Peter (Jeri) Costantino; grandchildren, Nicholas Costantino and Natalie Sharpe and several nieces and nephews.  

Lucia is a sister of the late Helen Moretti, Nicholas Moretti, William Moretti, Bernard Moretti, Louis Moretti, Splendora DiSanto, Mary Moretti and Anthony Moretti.

There are no prior calling hours and services will be held privately.  She will be laid to rest at St. Joseph Mausoleum in Batavia.  

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Ascension Parish, 19 Sumner Street, Batavia, NY 14020.

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

Arrangements for Lucia were entrusted to the Bohm-Calarco-Smith Funeral Home, Batavia, (585) 343-5673.

Mr. John L. Russo

By Joshua Smith

Batavia - John L. Russo, 87 of Batavia passed away on Saturday, February 4, 2023 at Premier Genesee Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation in Batavia, New York.

He was born Wednesday, July 3rd, 1935 in Batavia, a son of the late Joseph Russo and Rose Battaglia Russo.

John attended the Batavia school system and went onto work for The Batavia Times and then along with his sons starting their own business, American Legal & Commercial Printers, Inc.

John is survived by his wife of 52 years, Betty Brinkman Russo; sons, Douglas (Jodi) and Brian; grandchildren, Bailey & Kieri along with nieces and nephews.  

He is predeceased by his siblings, Nunzio Russo, Francis Alfieri and Theresa Russo.  

Family and friends are invited to call on Friday, February 10th from 2 to 4 pm at the Bohm-Calarco-Smith Funeral Home, 308 East Main Street, Batavia (Please use School Street Entrance). Private burial will be held at St. Joseph's Cemetery, Batavia.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity of the donor's choice. To leave a condolence, share a story, or light a candle in John's memory, please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Mrs. Colleen C. Smith

By Joshua Smith

Buffalo - Colleen C.  Smith, 63 of Buffalo, passed away on Monday, January 30, 2023 at her home surrounded by her family under the care of Hospice Buffalo.

Colleen was born Thursday, July 9th, 1959 in Buffalo, a daughter of the late James Little, Sr. and Audrey Ashburn Little.

A graduate from the Pembroke Central School District, Colleen was a machinist for 20 years at Ever Fab, Inc. in East Aurora. She truly loved her work and was proud of her accomplishments while working at Ever Fab. A die-hard fan of the Buffalo Bills, she loved shopping especially for purses.

Colleen is predeceased by her husband, Robert M. Smith and her sister, Michelle Robb.

Surviving are her children, Eric (Alissa) Towne of Grantville, Pennsylvania and Lacey (Michael) Ruth  of Alamogordo, New Mexico; six grandchildren, Justice Towne, Jadeyn and Connor Goras, Bailey, Ethan and Elijah Towne; her sister, Dawn Mango of Batavia; her brother, James (Rolinda) Little, Jr. of Charleston, South Carolina. along with nieces and nephews.

Her family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to the health care workers and friends who were involved with Colleen’s care during her illness.

There are no prior calling hours. Private graveside services will be held in Hillside Cemetery, Corfu.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Foundation, P.O Box 590, Buffalo, NY 14240-0590. To leave a condolence, share a story, or light a candle in her memory, please visit www.burdettandsanford.com.

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

Shane D. O'Brien

By T.J. Woodward

shanedobrien.jpg
Shane D. O’Brien, 48 of Alden, passed away on Friday, February 3, 2023 at Williamsville Suburban Center for Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing. He was born August 2, 1974 in Warsaw to Michelle (Mosicki) O’Brien of Warsaw and Robert O’Brien of Henrietta.

Despite being a quadriplegic life continued for Shane and he got the most out of it. He loved playing Rugby for the WNY Wreckers, ATV’s, boating and driving. Shane was an avid Buffalo Bills fan.

Along with his parents he is survived by his children, Dylan O’Brien of Tarrytown, NY, Kaydra O’Brien of Warsaw, siblings, Robert of CA, Clint O’Brien of Warsaw, Katy (John) Day of Wyoming, NY, niece Cassandra O’Brien of Warsaw, along with several other nieces and nephews.

There will be no prior calling hours. A Celebration of his life will be held on Wednesday, February 8, 2023 from 5 to 7pm at Mt. Morris VFW, 3 Elm Street, Mt. Morris, NY 14510.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to WNY Wreckers Rugby Team, www.wnywreckers.com C/O David Sprout, 1222 Waterbrook Crossing, Webster, NY 14580. To leave an online message of condolence please visit www.marleyfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Marley Funeral Home, LLC. 135 Main Street, Attica, New York 14011.  

Francis M. Buckenmeyer

By T.J. Woodward

buckenmeyer.jpg
Francis M. Buckenmeyer, 92 of Alexander, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 3, 2023 at LeRoy Village Green. He was born April 30, 1930 in Alexander to the late Charles and Margaret (Gilhooly) Buckenmeyer. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife Joan (Hanley) Buckenmeyer, daughter Meg Buckenmeyer, son-in-law Bill Franz, all nine of his siblings, Elizabeth Buckenmeyer, Charles (Vie) Buckenmeyer, Mary (Larry) Falkowski, Catherine (Paul) Raines, George Buckenmeyer, Dorothy (Eddie) Moynihan, Lucy (Jim) Moag, Margie Hofmann, Bernie Buckenmeyer.

Mr. Buckenmeyer was a lifelong farmer and widely respected Cattle Dealer across Western New York. He was a family man that loved his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Mr. Buckenmeyer always had gum for any kids he may have run into. He was known for his one liners and used to say “If you can’t laugh at your own jokes, no one else will”.

Francis was an elite athlete of his time; he held the 220-yard track record at Alexander High School for 25 years. He was inducted into the Alexander Athletic Hall of Fame, he played football, basketball and track at SUNY Brockport. Francis was a life long member of the Alexander Fire Department. Mr. Buckenmeyer enjoyed playing golf and cards for most of his life.

He is survived by his son Michael (Debby) Buckenmeyer of Attica, daughters, Patty (Tom) Moynihan of Alexander, Susan Franz of Attica, Barbara (Jeep) Quinn of Alexander, Lori (Richard) Miller of Alexander, sisters-in-law, Geri Buckenmeyer, Dorothy Buckenmeyer, brother-in-law Jim Hofmann, 13 grandchildren, 26 great grandchildren, along with many nieces, nephews and cousins.

There will be no prior calling hours. A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00PM on Saturday, February 11, 2023 at the Alexander Fire Hall 10505 Main St, Alexander, NY 14005.

A special thanks to LeRoy Village Green Nursing Home for their many years of care for our dad.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Alexander Fire Department, P.O. Box 336 Alexander, NY 14005. To leave an online message of condolence please visit www.marleyfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Marley Funeral Home, LLC, 135 Main Street, Attica, New York 14011.

Diane M. Cintorino

By T.J. Woodward

cint.jpg
  Diane Cintorino (Renz) entered into rest peacefully with her loved ones by her side at home on Saturday, February 4th, 2023.  Diane was born to the late William Renz Sr. and Josephine Renz (Giambrone) on April 4th, 1959 in Batavia, NY. 

Diane was the youngest of 3 children and is survived by her siblings William Renz Jr. and Nancy Kustas, both of Batavia.  

Throughout her life, Diane dedicated her heart and soul to caring for her family.  Diane is survived by her husband and best friend of 44 years, John Cintorino (Byron) along with her children, Michael (Suzanne) Cintorino of Byron, NY and Melissa (Kurt) Wegener of Palm Coast, FL.  Diane was delighted to have many grandchildren in her life including her favorite neighbors, Aerianna, Jaxon, and Evan Cintorino of Byron, NY; Kayla Wegener of Jacksonville, FL; Alan (Kylie) Wegener of Palm Coast, FL; Colton (KC) Wegener of Boca Raton, FL; and Adrianna Brandt of Palm Coast, FL.  

Following a long career working at Chapin Manufacturing in Batavia, Diane spent her retirement focusing on taking care of her family.  She lovingly cared for her mother Josephine and father “Big Bill” alongside her sister Nancy and brother Billy.  Diane also cared closely for her in-laws who lived with her, Ralph and Carmen Cintorino (Baglio).  In her spare time Diane loved to camp, swim, and spend time with her family and friends.  Diane especially loved to be able to look out her window and see her grandchildren playing.  

Friends are invited to call on Thursday February 9, 2023 from 4:00 to 7:00PM at Gilmartin Funeral Home & Cremation Company, Inc. 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, NY 14020. An 11:00AM Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday February 10th at Resurrection Parish, 303 East Main Street, Batavia, NY 14020.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Genesee Cancer Assistance 127 North St. in Batavia or Crossroads House www.crossroadshouse.com. To leave messages of condolence please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home & Cremation Company, Inc. 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, New York 14020.

Keith Martin Klotzbach

By Ronald Konieczny

klotzbach_keith_-_photo.jpeg
Keith Martin Klotzbach, 93, of Akron, NY, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by family on Saturday, February 4, 2023.

Keith was born in the middle of nine children to Jacob and Helen (Blish) Klotzbach on February 3, 1930. 

He was a loving and adoring husband, father and grandfather. Keith served his country with the United States Air Force from 1950 -1954. He was a life-long member of the Indian Falls United Methodist Church and choir. Keith had an adventurous spirit, was a world traveler with a quirky sense of humor and quiet wisdom.  Most of all, he was devoted to his family and cherished them. He will surely be missed by all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years Helen (Anderson) Klotzbach, and his siblings Winton (Jean) Klotzbach, Richard (Claudine) Klotzbach, Doris (Bernard) Cummings, Donald Klotzbach, Bruce Klotzbach, Barbara Kern, and Robert Klotzbach, and sisters-in-law, Grace (Donald) Green, and Julia Brady.

He is survived by three children: Julie Klotzbach (Gary Diamond), Douglas Klotzbach (Maria Fletch), and Jill Bogart (Chris). His loving grandchildren are Theresa Klotzbach, Joshua Bisson, Sarah Klotzbach, Leah Bisson, Hannah Klotzbach, Dean Bogart, Cara Klotzbach, Seth Bogart, Evan Bogart, and Aubrey Bogart. Brother, Lawrence (Linda) Klotzbach. Brothers-in-law, Ronald Brady, Sr. and Ronald Kern. Sisters-in-law, Joan Dermody, Roberta Mazza, Harriett Klotzbach, and Frieda Klotzbach. Also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Family and friends are cordially invited to share in a Memorial Service on Saturday (February 11th), 11:00am at the Indian Falls United Methodist Church, 7908 Alleghany Rd, Corfu, NY.

In lieu of flowers and gifts, memorial contributions may be offered to Hospice Buffalo, 225 Como Park Blvd, Buffalo, NY 14227 or Indian Falls Church, 7908 Alleghany Rd, Corfu, NY 14036. 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.

 

 

Mrs. Rita Giuliano

By Joshua Smith

Rita Giuliano, 87, of Oakfield, New York, passed away on Feb. 3, 2023 following a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

She was born in Pozzuoli, near Naples, Italy on May 11, 1935 to Lucia (née DiBonito) and Giuseppe Lubrano. She spent her early life in Italy, completing high school and some higher education before marrying her husband, Reno Giuliano, on Jan. 10, 1961 in Naples. She came to America in 1962, settling in Oakfield.

A proud mother and grandmother, she adored her children and her grandchildren, who loved her deeply. She served her community as a longtime member of St. Padre Pio Parish and enjoyed baking, walking, gardening, playing bingo and going to the casino.

She is survived by her husband, Reno; her children, Cindy (Jim) Hayes and Frank (Tom King) Giuliano; her grandchildren, Maria and Emily (Daniel Giovino) Hayes; her sister, Ida (Raffaele) Di Giorgio of Milan, Italy; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her brother Gerardo Lubrano, and her sisters: Maria Rosaria Lubrano, Filomena Esposito, and Angelina Fry.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, February 8 at St. Padre Pio Church, 56 Maple Avenue, Oakfield, NY 14125. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to the Genesee Senior Foundation, Inc., 2 Bank Street, Batavia, NY 14020. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in her memory, please visit www.burdettandsanford.com.

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

Dolores M. LoCastro

By LaVern Falcone

LeRoy ~ Dolores M. LoCastro, age 70, of Church Street, passed away early Wednesday morning, February 1, at United Memorial Medical Center in Batavia.

  

locastro_0.jpg
   She was born September 23, 1952 in Caltanissetta, Sicily, Italy, a daughter of the late Arcangelo and Nellie Neri.

     Dolores will be remembered as loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister and dear friend. 

     She will be sadly missed by her loving husband of 40 years, Anthony LoCastro; son, David (fiancé, Wendy Pratt) Rymer, granddaughter, Shelby Lynn Garrett and brothers-in-law, John LoCastro and Salvatore LoCastro.  She was predeceased by her son, Robert L. Rymer Jr.

    A Celebration of Dolores’ Life will be held at a later date.

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

Lorraine Sheflin

By LaVern Falcone

LeRoy ~ Lorraine Sheflin, age 86, of Union Street, passed away Saturday morning (February 4, 2023) at home in the loving presence of her family.

     She was born January 25, 1937 in Weston, Ontario, Canada, a daughter of the late James and Elizabeth Russell.

     Lorraine will be remembered as a very loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt and dear friend to many.  She was especially proud of her grandchildren and great-grandson.  Lorraine was always very happy and enjoyed sharing her butterscotch candies.  She was also a member of the Red Hat Society.

     She will be sadly missed by her daughter, Dawn Knitter; grandchildren, Ashley Knitter, Quintin (Cristina) Buckley, Leanne Knitter (Justin) and Kevin Knitter; great-grandson, Xander Buckley, along with many nieces and nephews.

     In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Robert Sheflin; son and daughter-in-law, Jeffrey and Shelly Buckley; grandson, Ethan Buckley; sister and brother-in-law, Dorothy and Donald Stevens.

     Family and friends may call on Friday, Feb. 10 from 4 ~ 7 P.M. at the Falcone Family Funeral & Cremation Service Inc., 8700 Lake St. Rd. (Rt. 19), LeRoy.  Services and interment in Machpelah Cemetery will be private.

     In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to either the American Cancer Society or American Diabetes Association.

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

Vincent L. DeMuth

By Lisa Ace


Longtime Juneau resident Vincent L. DeMuth passed away unexpectedly on the afternoon of January 23, 2023. He was born in Buffalo, New York on January 10th, 1939, and was the son of the late Arthur P. and Catherine (Marzolf) DeMuth. He attended school at Notre Dame in Batavia, New York and spent his childhood and early adult life in Darien Center, New York.

As a young man, he worked for the DeMuth-Marzolf Company in Darien Center, New York, which was a general store that also sold fuel, lumber and operated a feed and grain mill. Later, the company also became a distributer and service center for Petrolane Gas Co. and also started DeMuth Tire Sales. Vince managed the propane gas business, his brother Joe DeMuth managed the tire sales, and their mother was the company president who managed the overall company operations.

His father passed away when Vince was only 6 years old, so he grew up fishing and hunting with his cousins and many other longtime friends from his time in New York. As a young man, he dreamed of living in Alaska where the beauty and opportunities for fishing and hunting were legendary. In 1974, he made his dream a reality when he drove his family cross-country to Bellingham, Washington and took the Alaska State Ferry to Juneau, Alaska.

In Juneau, he initially worked for Petrolane Gas Co. but eventually switched to work for the State of Alaska as a maintenance mechanic at the Lemon Creek Correction Facility where he worked until his eventual retirement.

Although he enjoyed many hours in the field and had many great hunting memories, he truly loved being out on the water fishing from his boat and taking in the beauty and sounds of Alaska. He landed many big fish during his lifetime including the 1988 Golden North Salmon Derby Winner and again in 1989 when he helped a friend land the derby winner on his boat. He also loved to travel and ventured to many places throughout Europe, Asia and across the US with his sweetheart Phyllis.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Arthur and Catherine DeMuth and brothers Arthur W. DeMuth and Joseph L. DeMuth. He is survived by his wife Phyllis (Atkins) DeMuth, former spouse Karen (Hoy) Balduf, sister Joan Ansbrow (late James); children Chris (Becky) DeMuth, John (Andrea) DeMuth, Wendy Balduf, Renee (Ron) Mullen, Jennifer Warner, Todd (Alice) Nottingham, and Lori Nottingham (Dale Sams); grandchildren Travis (Olivia), Larissa (Jeff), Kieran, Citabria, Britney, DJ, Lindsey (Chris), Josh, Bailey, Morgan (Kyle), Rian (Jimmy) and Wesley (Scott); and many great-grandchildren.

Vince always had a smile on his face and was a great friend to many who benefitted from him being a prolific "pack rat" and a regular listener to the radio program "Problem Corner" were he acquired many great "deals" and treasures over the years. Most of all, he was a patient, loving man who was a wonderful husband, father, grandpa, mentor and role model whom we miss dearly. 

Celebration of life on Feb 19th 10:00 am at the Alabama Firehall on Rt. 63. Catholic Mass being held on February  25th and March 4th both at 7:00 PM at the Our Lady of Good Councel church  in Darien
Center

Lorraine F. Bates Zury

By LaVern Falcone

Lorraine Bates Zury, 86 of Bergen, NY, passed away peacefully on January 25th, 2023.

     Born, September 14, 1936, in Batavia, NY, daughter to the late Kenneth and Marion Welker Bates.

     She is survived by her companion Bill; 2 sons, Daniel (Lena) and Timothy (Late Grisel); Grandchildren, Keith Zury (Diana), Nicolette Zury Mendez (Alex); Great Grandchildren, Ellie and Derek. She is also survived by her siblings, Robert Bates (late Shirley), Ronald Bates (Robin) and Frank Bates (Barb), along with several nieces and nephews.

     She is predeceased by daughter, Renee Zury Stone, brother, Richard Bates, sisters, Joyce Bates Newcomb (late Robert) and Marjorie Bates Cunningham (late George).

     She is remembered as a caring mom, grandmother, aunt, and a person who never passed up the opportunity to light up and decorate her property to the relevant holiday at the time.

     Lorraine was a stay-at-home mother, she also worked early and later on in life for multiple years at Kodak, with some years spent at the Democrat and Chronicle newspaper.

     Her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, February 18 at 11:00 AM at Our Lady of Mercy Parish, St. Brigid Church location, 18 Gibson Street, Bergen, NY.  Burial will be at St. Brigid’s Cemetery in Bergen, NY.

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

JoClair M. Surman

By Lisa Ace

JoClair M. Surman, of Corfu, passed away peacefully of natural causes on Wednesday morning, February 1, 2023. 

She was born in Wheeling, WV, on March 29, 1934.  

JoClair is survived by her daughter Stephanie (Scott) Thompson of Memphis, TN, her granddaughter Zoe Thompson of Corvallis, OR, her brother Raymond (Priscilla) Kuntz, sister Mary Ellen (the late Joe) Giblin, and brother George (Christine) Kuntz and a large number of nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her husband of 48 years Norman Surman, her parents Raymond and Esther (nee Knabe) Kuntz, sister Rose Ann Kuntz, and brothers William “Billy” Kuntz and Louis “Eddie” Kuntz.  

Up until the last several years she was an active parishioner at St. Maximilian Kolbe Catholic Church in Corfu, NY, where she taught children’s religious education classes for many years.  She was also a volunteer for All Babies Cherished of Batavia, NY.  JoClair was an amazing artist and loved sending greeting cards which always included a stick of gum.  

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 7, from 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM at C. B. Beach & Son Mortuary, Inc., 4 East Main Street, Corfu, NY.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday, February 8 at 10 AM at St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish 18 West Main Street, Corfu, NY.  In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to All Babies Cherished 445 Ellicott St., Batavia, NY 14020 or the Corfu Food Pantry PO Box 159 Corfu, NY 14036. 

Authentically Local