Obituaries

Kenneth E. Kohlhagen, 94 of Bennington, passed away on Friday, December 17, 2021. He was born July 21, 1927 in Buffalo, to the late Herman and Eleanora (Adam) Kohlhagen. Mr. Kohlhagen is preceded in death by his beloved wife Esther M. (Marks) Kohlhagen, two great-grandchildren, brothers-in-law, Lee Gerhardt and Edward Fluker.

Kenneth retired from Delphi in Lockport. He was a proud United States Navy Veteran. Ken, was a member of West Star No. 413 in Varysburg and very active in many masonic related organizations.

Mr. Kohlhagen is survived by sons, Kurt (Doreen), Mark (Donna) Kohlhagen, sisters, Eileen Gerhardt, Carol Fluker, 6 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, along with several nieces and nephews.

There will be no prior calling hours. Funeral Services will be held at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Bennington Volunteer Fire Company, 1353 RT 354, Attica, NY 14011 or to Varysburg Volunteer Fire Company, PO Box 638, Varysburg, NY 14167. To leave a message of condolence visit www.marleyfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Marley Funeral Home, LLC. 135 Main Street, Attica, New York 14011.

James (Jim) Edwin Woodruff passed away on December 15th at his home in Batavia surrounded by his loving family and nursing staff. Jim was born August 2, 1928 in Youngstown, Ohio, the son of the late Gideon and Thelma (Sands) Woodruff.

Jim was civic minded from an early age, having earned the Eagle Scout rank in Boy Scouts and serving as a veteran with the United States Army. He continued to be inspired to help his community throughout his life. Jim was member and president of the Batavia Board of Education from 1970-1973, member and chairman of the Genesee County Legislature from 1976-1983, member and chairman of the Genesee/Finger Lakes Regional Planning Commission, and member of the Genesee Symphony Orchestra Board of Directors. He also was director of All Babies Cherished and a board member of HomeCare and Hospice. Jim was a member of the Masons for over 50 years. He was recognized by the Genesee Industrial Development as well as named Sertoma of the Year in 1990 and Geneseean of the Year in 1996.

His faith was a constant part of his daily life, and he was active in the Batavia First United Methodist Church, where he was a former youth leader. Every Sunday, congregants were treated to his presence in the choir with his beautiful tenor voice. Over the years, he was asked to sing at many weddings and funerals, and he loved being able to share his passion with others. Jim also enjoyed performing in the Rotary Club productions and was particularly fond of The Music Man and My Fair Lady.

Jim was owner of the Overhead Door Company of Batavia, which was started by his parents. He was a familiar face in the business community and enjoyed building personal relationships with his customers.  Because of his work ethic, he was able to build a thriving business that was then passed on to his son.

On October 31, 1953, he married Ruth Josephine Woodruff in Arkport, NY. He was fortunate to have found the love of his life and is survived by his children, Charlie (Terri) Woodruff of Alexander, Cynthia Zielinski of Portland, Oregon, and Catherine (James) Zaso of Batavia; grandchildren, Libby (Michael) Craig, Kyle Woodruff, Michelle Zaso (Paul Leung-fiance), Matthew Zaso, and Monica Zaso; great-grandchildren, Gavin Craig and Hailey Craig; and several nieces and nephews. Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Ruth Woodruff, and his sister.

Jim’s funeral will be a private family gathering with no calling hours. A public Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Jim will be laid to rest with military honors in Grandview Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Batavia First United Methodist Church, Attention: Organ Fund, 8221 Lewiston Road, Batavia, NY 14020 or a donation of your choice.

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

Arrangements for Jim were entrusted to the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home in Batavia.

Robert L. Fryer “Bob”, 74 of Batavia, passed away peacefully on Saturday (December 18, 2021) at United Memorial Medical Center.

He was born June 9, 1947 in Batavia, a son of the late Irving and Florence Lee Fryer.

Robert was employed by Lapp Insulator prior to his retirement. He was a very generous and easy going person who was loved by everyone. He enjoyed bowling and will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

He was predeceased by his siblings, Gloria Dilcher, Irving Fryer Jr., Geraldine Kasmarek and James Fryer.

Survivors include his wife of 30 years, Elizabeth Byczynska Fryer of Batavia. Sister, Sandra DellaPenna of Batavia. Brother, David Fryer of Batavia. Aunt, Donna Lee of LeRoy. Brother in-law, Andrzej Byczynski. Sister in-law, Danuta Kurzawska. Also survived by nieces, nephews and cousins.

Family and friends are cordially invited to share thoughts, condolences and fond memories on Wednesday (Dec. 22^nd) from 4-7pm at the J. LEONARD McANDREW FUNERAL HOME, LLC, 2 BOGUE AVE., BATAVIA, NY. His Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday, 11:00am at Resurrection Parish, 303 E. Main St., Batavia. Interment will be in St. Joseph Cemetery.

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

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

James C. Wierda, 76 of Batavia, passed away peacefully on Friday (December 17, 2021) at United Memorial Medical Center.

He was born February 25, 1945 in Elmira, NY, a son of the late Albert and Mary Grace Groux Wierda.

Mr. Wierda was an Army Veteran, having served his country during the Vietnam War. Prior to his retirement, he was employed by Ken Barrett Chevrolet in Batavia. He enjoyed country western music, was an avid golfer and was known for his cookouts, where he would always find a reason to have one. He also enjoyed horseracing and often you could find him at Batavia Downs. Most of all, he loved his family and his world evolved around them. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him.

Survivors include his wife, Susan Schlenker Wierda of Batavia. Son, Derk Wierda of Batavia. Daughters, Lindsay Wierda of Batavia and Jessica (Thomas) Lewandowski of Pembroke. Eight grandchildren, Arianna, Azalea, Dimitri, Aiden, Gabreille, Ava, Tyler, Onaleigh. Daughter in-law, Oksana Wierda. Sisters, Sylvia Ripley of Buffalo and Mary Wierda of Buffalo. Brothers, Edward, John and Chris Wierda, all of Florida. Also survived by nieces and nephews.

He was the father of the late Christopher P. Wierda. Grandfather of the late Daniil Petlevanny. Brother of the late Thomas Wierda and Margaret Ryll.

The family would like to thank the caring staff at United Memorial Medical Center and Dialysis for the care which they have shown to Jim.

Visitation and funeral services will be held at a future date to be announced. He will be laid to rest in the Western New York National Cemetery in Pembroke, NY.

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

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

 

 

Alta B. Zambito, 93, of Elba passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday December 16, 2021. She was born in Elba on August 22, 1928 to the late Rocco and Madeline (Roberts) Calarco.

In addition to her parents, Alta is predeceased by her husband; Charles S. Zambito; daughters Paulette Zambito-Bird and Lynn (Paul) Hoffman; granddaughter Danica Marie Zambito; siblings Frank Calarco, Mary Dellapenna, Lina Tundo, Harriett Rodenbach and Annette Kulikowski.

She is survived by her children; Mary Zambito of Elba, Alta (Mark) Giuliano of FL., Charles (Patricia) Zambito of Elba, Rocco (Linda) Zambito of Elba, Anne (John) Lexer of East Rochester and Joseph (Kelly) Zambito of FL.; son in law Brian Bird of Elba; brother in law Ron Kulikowski of Batavia; 13 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, along with many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to call from 4:00-8:00PM on Monday December 20, 2021 at Gilmartin Funeral Home & Cremation Co. Inc. 329-333 West Main Street Batavia, New York 14020. A 10:00AM Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday December 21^st at St. Padre Pio Parish 65 South Main St. (Route 98) Elba, NY 14058. She will be laid to rest in St. Joseph’s Cemetery. ***Masks will be required for calling hours***

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Genesee Cancer Assistance 127 North St. Batavia, NY 14020. To leave thoughts or condolences please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home & Cremation Company, Inc. 329-333 West Main Street Batavia, NY 14020.

Teresa R. (Suozzi) Wormley, 55, of Batavia passed away on Thursday December 16, 2021. She was born on March 11, 1966 in Batavia to the late Joseph P. Suozzi and Grace (Carrubba) Suozzi of Batavia. In addition to her father, Teresa is predeceased by her brother; Patrick Suozzi.

Teresa was a beloved mother, grandmother, daughter, teacher and coach. Her smile could light up a room and she would always put others before herself. Teresa’s spirit was contagious; whether it was doing cartwheels after softball games, inspiring her students to get excited about Spanish, or playing with her granddaughter Lena.  She was Lena’s favorite person and her family was her whole world.

In addition to her mother, Teresa is survived by her daughters; Amanda (Richard Paganello) Wormley of E. Bethany and Brittany Wormley of Webster; siblings Christopher (Lisa) Suozzi of Batavia, Joseph (Jennifer) Suozzi of Powell, OH., sister-in-law Mary Beth Suozzi of Batavia; granddaughter Lena Savona, along with many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to call from 4:00-8:00PM on Tuesday December 21, 2021 at Gilmartin Funeral Home & Cremation Co. Inc. 329-333 West Main Street Batavia, New York 14020. A 9:30AM Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday December 22^nd at Resurrection Parish 303 E. Main St. in Batavia. She will be laid to rest in St. Joseph’s Cemetery.

***Masks will be required for calling hours no matter your vaccine status***

Flowers are gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to the family in c/o Grace Suozzi. To leave thoughts or condolences please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home & Cremation Company, Inc. 329-333 West Main Street Batavia, NY 14020.

  Gregory B. Beardsley, 36, of Blasdell, passed away on December 12, 2021 in Tonawanda. He was born in Warsaw on January 2, 1985 to Randy Beardsley of Boston, MA., and Donna (Ken) Monaco of Blasdell.

Greg worked as an electrician for DJ Beardsley & Sons in Castile and was huge Miami Dolphins fan. He was a Seneca Native American.

In addition to his parents, Gregory is survived by his grandfather; D.J. Beardsley of Castile; siblings Antwinett (Nathan) Rizzo, Nicole Hartman, Alan Hartman Jr., Jake Pietronuto and Sunshine Samantha Carnes all of Bliss, along with several nieces and nephews.

Friends and family are invited to attend a 4:00PM Funeral Service on Wednesday December 22, 2021 at Gilmartin Funeral Home & Cremation Company, Inc. 329-333 West Main St. Batavia, NY 14020. A Celebration of Life will also be held on the Reservation in Irving, NY.

To leave thoughts or condolences please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home & Cremation Company, Inc. 329-333 West Main Street Batavia, NY 14020.

Kathalyn K. Peck, of Basom, better known to many as “Grandma Kay”, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 14, 2021 at United Memorial Medical Center in Batavia at the age of 93.
Born on November 25, 1928 in Basom, Kathalyn was a daughter of the late George and Mildred (Seibert) Kenward. A lifelong resident of the Basom area, she attended the one room school house in Basom and went on to graduate from Akron High School in 1946.
She married the love of her life, the late Harry Peck in 1949 and together raised a family of three children. Early in life, Kathalyn worked as a currier for the Batavia Daily News and also as a clerk for G.C. Murphy Co. in Medina. She then worked for many years as an assistant at various podiatrist’s offices, lastly being Dr. Thomas Cianciolo in Clarence. Having accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior, Kathalyn had an incredibly strong faith, of which she instilled in her family. She was a lifelong member of the Alabama-Basom United Methodist Church where she also taught Sunday school for many years. She also volunteered through the Road to Emmaus and cooked for the Genesee County Men’s Prayer Breakfasts. Kathalyn also volunteered for many years at the VA Hospital in Batavia.

In addition to her parents, Kathalyn was predeceased by her husband, Harry in 1991; her sister, Coralyn (Robert) Anderson; daughter in-law, Karen Peck; and son in-law, Dennis Moden.
Left to cherish her memory are her three children, Rev. Dr. Michael Peck; Virginia (Rev. Robert) Peters and Kimberly Moden; seventeen grandchildren; twenty-six great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; and many dear friends whom she considered adopted family.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 18th at 12:00pm at One Church, 6 Scotland Rd., Akron, NY 14001. Private interment will be in the Alabama Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to the Baptist Church Planters, 36830 Royalton Rd., Grafton, OH 44044. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina, NY 14103. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com

William R. Metz Sr., 77, passed away peacefully at the Batavia NYS Veterans Home after a long struggle with his health. Born 1944 in Schenectady NY to the late James & Carolyn (Cronin) Metz. Bill is survived by his brother, children, stepchildren, grandchildren, nieces/nephews and (as he would call them) many “grand dogs”.

He grew up on Washington Ave in the city of Batavia where he attended St Joseph’s School & Parish. For a brief, but memorable time, Bill was in the Army 101st. He worked for Snell Signs, Coke, Sylvania, Kodak, Walmart and even dabbled in his own towing & car sales business.

While he may have met his brother Pat (Maglenda) Metz later in life, they had much in common and could talk for hours (which they often did).

Bill loved his grandchildren, music, telling stories of his past, cars, animals, motorcycles, collecting & four wheeling with the guys - which he missed terribly after his health took it away. However, he didn’t let that stop him from always having pleasant words with anyone he came across. He could make everyone smile, laugh & feel special.

Fortunate enough to have experienced two loves during his lifetime, Bill married twice. He was married to Serena (Gautieri) in 1965 for 19 years until she passed in 1984. With her, he had two children. Daughter, Melissa (Michael) Grasso and son, William Metz. Grandchildren Mackenzie (Pat), Meredith & Mason Grasso, Devin, Kyle, & Kaylee Metz, Jason (Andrea), Matt (Lisa) Brown, Donny (Amber) Cotter. Great-grandchildren Gianna, Lucas, Abrianna (Brie). He later married Jean (Ratulowski), also known as Mrs. Pixley and Mrs. P, who passed away in 2015. They were married for 17 years. Through Bill’s marriage to Jean, he gained a second family. Jean's children, James (Mary) Pixley, Shawn (Julie) Pixley, Kimberly (Tim) Shea and grandchildren Patrick & James Pixley and Ryan Shea.

Bill & Jean also had Bill’s Buddy “Chewie” who stayed with him as long as he could. Chewie gave a new meaning to man’s best friend. His loss was hard on Bill.

Bill’s family will be forever grateful for the friends & family that continued to check in on him regularly and are saddened for those that never had the opportunity to know him. He was a man of many stories, stories that will now live on with his family & friends. They would also like to extend a thanks to the staff at the NYS Veterans Home, many went above and beyond to make him as comfortable as could be.

In lieu of flowers, cards and memorials, the family asks that you instead take the time to brighten someone else's day. Call someone you’ve lost track of, mend a grudge you may have, or share a story. Our time together is short, live life with gratitude.

The family will be having a private gathering to share stories and celebrate his life at a later date.

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.

 

 

Timothy A. Pickard “Timpat” was born on June 13, 1993. He passed away in his home on Sunday, December 12, 2021 in Attica, New York. Timpat is the son of Mark A. Pickard (step mother Heather) of Darien Center, New York and the late Janette L. Pickard of Attica/Corfu, New York.

Timpat is also survived by his two sisters Jennifer A. Pickard, and Ashley N. Pickard both of Attica, New York. Step sister Alexis L. Bick (John) of Attica, New York and step brother Cody Wilkerson (Harleigh) of Mt. Morris New York.  Niece’s Brooklyn, Karleigh, Josephine, Aubree and nephew Brantley.  Grandparents Henry (Buzz) and Sharon Cummings of Corfu, New York and the late Leo and Muriel Pickard of Geneva, New York.  Many Aunts, Uncles, Cousins and dear friends.

The Memorial Service will be held at the QWL Building 639 Exchange Street, Attica, New York on Saturday, December 18, 2021 from 2 o’clock PM to 4 o’clock PM.

*as per required by the state of New York PLEASE wear your mask inside the building*

To leave a message of condolence visit www.marleyfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Marley Funeral Home, LLC. 135 Main Street, Attica, New York 14011.

Nellie May Grasso, 83, of Florida, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 6, 2021 at Oak Manor Health Care in Largo, FL. She was born January 5, 1938 in Bergen to late Everette and Elsie (Keidel) Shamp. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband Patsy Grasso, brothers, Ronald, Adelbert and William Shamp.  

Mrs. Grasso owned and operated Miss Batavia Diner with her husband Patsy. She was a longtime member of St. Catherine’s Roman Catholic Church of Siena and their woman’s guild. Nellie was also a member of Lion’s Club of Clearwater.  

Mrs. Grasso is survived by sister, Martha Jones, brother Jerry Shamp and step-son Lewis Grasso, along with many nieces and nephews.

Friends are invited to a Committal Service, 11:00 AM on Saturday, December 18, 2021 at St. Joseph’s Mausoleum, Batavia.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Crossroads House, P.O. Box 403, Batavia, NY 14021. To leave a message 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.

Byron - David W. Leaton, Sr., age 93, of Byron, passed away on Tuesday, December 14, 2021 at United Memorial Medical Center.

He was born on February 20, 1928 in Batavia, a son of the late Alfred and Bertha Squires Leaton.

A member of the Byron Kiwanis Club, he enjoyed woodworking.

He is predeceased by his wife, Bernice E. Farnsworth Leaton who passed away on December 8, 2001.

Surviving are his sons, David W. (Debra) Leaton, Jr. and Daniel (Sandy) Leaton, both of Byron; his granddaughter, best friend and light of his life, Morgan Leaton; grandsons, Andrew (Nikki) Leaton and Jason (Crystal Zastrocky) Leaton; several great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

He is predeceased by his brothers, Harry Leaton and Warren Leaton.

There are no prior visiting hours. Friends are invited to his funeral service on Friday at 10 a.m. at Byron Presbyterian Church, 6293 West Main Street, Byron, New York 14422. He will be laid to rest in Byron Cemetery. Flowers are gratefully declined. Memorials in his name may be made to the Byron Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 326, Byron, New York 14422. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in his name, please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, 403 East Main Street, Batavia.

Esther (Marks) Kohlhagen passed away on December 12, 2021 at Buffalo General Hospital. She was born on April 20, 1930 in Buffalo to the late Charles and Cecilia (Miller) Marks. Along with her parents, Esther is predeceased by her brother; Harold (Elizabeth) Marks.

She is survived by her husband; Kenneth Kohlhagen; sons Kurt (Doreen) Kohlhagen and Mark (Donna) Kohlhagen; 6 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren.

There will be no prior calling hours, Services and Internment will be held at the convenience of the family.

To leave a message of condolence visit www.marleyfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Marley Funeral Home, LLC. 135 Main Street, Attica, New York 14011.

Ann E. Hendershott, 96 of Oakfield, passed away Sunday (December 12, 20221) at Strong Memorial Hospital.

She was born December 23, 1924 in Stafford, NY, a daughter of the late Peter and Lilian Squires Hansen.

From a young age, Ann and her family took pride in their country and patriotism. She had five brothers serve during World War II but two of them would not return home. Her brothers Leslie Hansen and Paul Hansen were awarded the Navy Cross, one of the United States Naval Services highest honors. To this day, her brothers are remembered and honored, having the Marine Corps League in Batavia named after them.

Ann was a collector of various items and enjoyed travelling to flea markets. She loved her family and will be missed dearly by all who knew her.

Survivors include her daughters, Judy (Terry) Kolb of Oakfield, Donna (Joe) Macaluso of Batavia, Diana Hendershott of Oakfield, Jane Brooks of St. Petersburg, FL and Sally Amend of Oakfield. Brothers, Alan Hansen and Dean Hansen. Also survived by 9 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her son, Dennis Hendershott and brothers and sisters.

There will be no prior visitation and a funeral service will be held at the convenience of the family.

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

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

 

 

  With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Norma G. Kelver of Strykersville, NY on December 10, 2021 at the age of 94.

Norma was a graduate of Alexander High School. She went on to the Rochester Business Institute where she received her medical secretary certification. She will be remembered for her knitting of hats, mittens and booties to donate to local charities. She was an excellent seamstress and was a 4H leader who taught many local girls how to knit. She volunteered with the American Cancer Society and the Clothes Closet.

Norma was a member of the St. Johns U.C.C. Women’s Guild and was the organists at St. Johns for over 50 years. Later she worked for several years as an aid on the school bus for handicapped children. She always made time for her grandchildren, especially when cards or dominos were involved or sharing her love of music. She was loved and cherished by many from NY to TX. She will be remembered for whit, great sense of humor and for the caring and kindness she showed to everyone she met.

She is preceded in death by her parents; Howard and Marion (Lance) Geer; her husband of 70 years Henry J. Kelver; her siblings Doris (Stuart) Phillips, Norris (Lois A.) Geer and Earl Geer. She is survived by her sister; Phyllis Murphy (Chet Robinson) of Collegeville, PA., and sister in law Ruth M. Geer of Alexander; her sons Richard (Ester) Kelver, David (Sandy) Kelver, Paul (Lenore) Kelver, Robert (Cindy) Kelver and Scott (Tammy) Kelver; 9 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend visitation on Saturday December 18, 2021 from 1:00 – 1:30PM at St. John’s United Church of Christ 608 Centerline Rd. Strykersville, NY 14145. A 1:30 Funeral Service will immediately follow at the church. Interment will be at St. John’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the St. John’s United Church of Christ 608 Centerline Rd. Strykersville, NY 14145. To leave a message of condolence visit www.marleyfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Marley Funeral Home, LLC. 135 Main Street, Attica, New York 14011.