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Obituaries

Jeffrey J. Utz

By Joshua Smith
Utz
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jeffrey J. Utz, a beloved husband, father and grandfather, departed this life on Thursday, May 8th, 2025, at the age of 75. He was born on January 15th, 1950, in Batavia, a son of the late Quinton and Ruth Seaburg Utz.

He graduated from Pembroke High School and built a long-standing career as an Equipment Manager at Buffalo Crushed Stone in Williamsville. He served as Councilman for the Town of Alabama. Jeff had a true love for automobiles and restored many antique cars. He also enjoyed the outdoors and spending time with his pets. Above all, he held his family closest to his heart, serving as a pillar of strength and love.

Jeff is survived by his devoted wife, Jean Atwell Utz; his loving daughter, Julie (Louis) Colantonio; and son, Jared (Nicole) Utz. His legacy lives on through his cherished grandchildren, Natalie, Naomi, Joshua Utz, Cooper and Callie Colantonio. He also leaves behind his brother-in-law, Roy (Kim) Atwell, nieces Valerie (Scott) Gee, Katelin (Scot) Pickard; nephew, Zachary (Erica) Atwell; along with several great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins.

Friends and family are invited to attend a visitation from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm Tuesday, May 20th, 2025 at the Batavia First United Methodist Church parlor located at 8221 Lewiston Road, Batavia, New York. A memorial service will follow at 4:00 pm held in the sanctuary to honor and celebrate Jeff's life. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Monroe Ambulance, 1669 Lyell Ave, Rochester, New York 14606, the Bergen Fire Department P.O. Box 428, Bergen, New York 14416, or to Batavia First United Methodist Church, 8221 Lewiston Road, Batavia, New York 14020 in his memory.
 
Arrangements are under the care and direction of the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, 403 East Main Street, Batavia. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in his memory, please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

James M. Carpenter

By Joshua Smith
Jim

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gertrude A. "Gertie" Detine

By T.J. Woodward
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Gertrude A. “Gertie” Detine, age 92, passed away peacefully on Mother’s Day, May 11, 2025, at Charlotte House Comfort Care Home in North Java. She was born in Buffalo NY on May 1, 1933, to the late Edmund and Helen (Nowak) Krantz. A beloved sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, Gertie will be remembered for her generosity, humility, wit and warmth.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Robert E. Ely

By Ronald Konieczny

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

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

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

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

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

Interment will be in Mumford Cemetery.

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

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

 

 

Jennie V. Sabb

By Joshua Smith
Jennie

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

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

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

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

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

Michael Charles Torcello

By Kara Richenberg
Michael Charles Torcello

Michael Charles Torcello, 72, of Claymont, Delaware, passed away on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. Born in Batavia, New York, on July 10, 1952, Mike was the beloved son of the late Lawrence (Madalyn) Torcello. He was also preceded in death by several cherished cousins, aunts, and uncles including his dear Aunt Rose Torcello who cared for him in his youth.

A devoted horseman, Mike spent many years training and driving, later following in his father’s footsteps at Batavia Downs as the Track Superintendent. Eventually working at Buffalo Raceway before transitioning to Delaware, where he managed the track at Harrah’s Philadelphia Casino and Racetrack. His passion for the sport was evident in his dedication and expertise, leaving an enduring legacy in the racing community.

Beyond his professional life, Mike found joy in life's simple pleasures. He treasured trips with his daughters and grandchildren, especially visits to Amish Country and his family home in Long Beach Island. A lover of family, good company, and a hearty Italian meal, he enjoyed reminiscing and sharing stories with loved ones.

Mike leaves behind a devoted and loving family, including his wife Lynn Torcello of Claymont, DE; his brother Lawrence (Katie) Torcello of Stafford; his daughters Deana (Luke) Berry of Penfield, Angela Torcello of Batavia, and Kristen (Jeremy) Hargrave of Oakfield. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren Natalie and Grace Berry, Anabella Weyer, Philomena and Antonio Troche, and Emma Hargrave; his stepdaughter Dawn Knowles of California; his niece Atia Torcello, and many cousins.

Mike’s warmth, wisdom, and unwavering love will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him. His legacy as a horseman, family man, and friend will be fondly remembered and deeply missed. A 9:30 AM Mass will be held to celebrate his life on Friday, May 16th at Ascension Parish 19 Sumner St. in Batavia.

 

Richard L. Dusing

By Kara Richenberg
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Richard L. Dusing of LeRoy passed surrounded by his loving family on May 7, 2025 at the age of 83. Predeceased by his wife Beverley.  Survived by his loving partner Jeanice Keaton, Daughter Valerie (Christopher) Liles, Granddaughter Samantha (Jeff) Staub, Grandson Kevin (Agnies) Liles, 5 Great-grandchildren, and brother Ronald (Sarah) Dusing. Bonus Family Dana (Renee) Keaton, Steven Keaton, Granddaughter Jessica (Joe) Emmerling, Melanie (Theo) Tomczak, Monica, Madilyn, and Miranda Keaton.

Dick enjoyed boating, mowing his lawn, and sharing pictures with family and friends.

He attended the University of Virginia, where he met his wife, Beverley. After college Dick enlisted in the United States Navy, where he was stationed in Norfolk, Virginia. Once honorably discharged, he and Beverley moved back to Le Roy, where he worked at the family business, Dusing & Hunt Door Mfg. When Dusing & Hunt moved out of town he worked at Kodak, Trojan, and retired from Batavia Metal Products.

Friends are invited to call Friday, May 30, 2025, from 4-7 PM at Cameron Brady & Steuber Funeral Home, 111 Wolcott St., Le Roy. His Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 10:30 AM at First Presbyterian Church of Le Roy, 7 Clay St, Le Roy, NY 14482. (Parking is in public lot behind McDonald's) Private Interment.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the LeRoy Presbyterian Church or the LeRoy Food Pantry 48 Main St, Le Roy, NY 14482.

To share a memory or leave a condolence, please visit LeRoyfuneralhome.com

William D. Boyd

By Kara Richenberg
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William D. Boyd -Passed away on May 8, 2025 at the age of 92.

Predeceased by his parents, Marion Woeller Boyd and Merrill Boyd; wife, Nancy Neiman Boyd; wife, Ruth Hawley Boyd; sisters, Ellen Boyd Barrett and Doris Boyd Barrett.

He is survived by daughters, Katherine Boyd (Richard) Davis, Debra Boyd (Joseph) McGurgan, Linda Boyd Thompson, Cindy Boyd and Kent Johnson, Ann Boyd (Gerald) Sattora; son, David Boyd and Nancy Satter; sisters, Charlotte Boyd Olsen and Gladys Boyd Rodger; grandchildren, Jennifer Hammond (Brian) Hart, Ryan McGurgan, Michelle Hammond (Chris) Johnson, Brandon and Susan Boyd, Colleen McGurgan and Jeff LoVette, Jordan and Kelsey Boyd; great-grandchildren, James Johnson, Jennifer Johnson, Hudson Hart, Connor Hart, Nora Boyd, Grant Boyd; many nieces and nephews.

Bill, as he was called, drove trucks for Lawless Container for many years until he retired. He loved traveling, and visiting every state except for Hawaii. Until Ruths passing in 2012, he was a snowbird in Florida. He loved camping, building, chicken barbeques, cutting down trees, and meeting new people.

Private service and interment to be held at the convenience of the family.

Donations in Bill’s memory can be made to the American Diabetes Association, PO Box 7023, Merrifield, VA 22116.

Patricia A. Rogers

By Joshua Smith
Rogers

Patricia A. (Strimple) Rogers of Attica, age 84, passed away on May 8, 2025 at Autumn View Health Care Facility.

She was born August 9, 1940 in Hornell, a daughter of the late Cyrus and Eleanor (Weaver) Strimple.

Patricia graduated from West Seneca high school and was married to the love of her life, Glenn Rogers, until his passing in 2010. She enjoyed bingo, listening to Elvis, and watching Elvis impersonations. Family was everything to Patricia and she cherished each and every one.

Survivors include her daughter, Nancy Rogers, and son, Michael (Mary) Rogers; grandchildren, Sierra, Seth and Grace Rogers; sisters, Mari-Etta Giles and Janice Kranz. In death Patricia is reunited with her son, Charles "Chuck" Rogers; sister, Cheryl Prange and brothers, Robert and Charles Strimple.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Marley Funeral Home. There will be no calling hours or services. Burial will be at the convenience of the family in Summit View Cemetery, Bennington.

In Lieu of flowers donations may be made to: American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741 or AV – Disabled American Veterans, PO Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH 45250-0301.

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

Jerome J. "Jerry" Grasso

By Joshua Smith
Batavian

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jerome "Jerry" Grasso on Friday, May 9, 2025, at the age of 87 surrounded by his family. Born in Buffalo, on June 28, 1937, Jerry was a cherished member of the Batavia community.

Jerry spent a fulfilling career as a dedicated employee at General Motors. He then worked alongside his late wife, Maxine, who managed the Notre Dame H. S. cafeteria. While at Notre Dame, he cherished his time with all the students and was "adopted" as one of their own. After Maxine's passing, he worked several more years in security at the Batavia Downs Casino.

A devout man, Jerry was a member of Ascension Parish, where he served faithfully as a eucharistic minister. He was a trustee of the Knights of Columbus (Monsignor Kirby Council #325) where he was also a past Grand Knight. He was also the Faithful Navigator of the Knights of Columbus 4th degree, Batavia Assembly #0755. Aside from his involvement in the Knights of Columbus, Mr. Grasso was a volunteer at Notre Dame High School for 25 years where he contributed his time heavily to sports and scholarships. Besides his efforts for the school, Mr. Grasso has also spent countless hours volunteering and assisting in fundraising for multiple organizations, in and around Batavia. In 2015, he received the Italian-American of the Year by the Paolo Busti Cultural Foundation.

Jerry was known for his passion for life, enjoying trips to the casino, hunting and proudly attending his grandchildren's events during their school years. His presence was a staple in their lives.

He is survived by his loving children, Nancy (Michael) Piscitello of Colden, Lisa (Steven) Grice of Batavia, and Jay Grasso of Spencerport. Jerry also leaves behind six beloved grandchildren: Matthew (Jesse Funk) Piscitello, Alex (Randi) Grice, Zachary (Rika) Grasso, Casey (Ashley) Grice, Nicholas Grasso, and Hailey Grasso. His two sisters, Elizabeth Grasso and Sister Ann Marie Grasso of Buffalo, along with many nieces and nephews, also survive him.

Jerry was preceded in death by his cherished wife, Maxine A. Baszczynski Grasso in 2010, his parents, Anthony and Antoinette DiChristina Grasso, his daughter Nadine Grasso Netter in 2009, his granddaughter Cara Piscitello in 2018, and his brother, Anthony Grasso.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, 403 East Main Street, Batavia.Family and friends are invited to celebrate Jerome’s life at a Funeral Mass on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at 9:30 am at Ascension Parish, 15 Sumner Street, Batavia. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Crossroads House, P.O. Box 403, Batavia, New York 14021,  Genesee Cancer Assistance, Inc., 127 North Street, Batavia, New York 14020 or the Michael Napoleone Foundation, P.O. Box 267, Batavia, New York 14021. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in his memory, please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Salvatore A. Zito Sr.

By T.J. Woodward
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Rochester/Batavia - Salvatore A. Zito Sr., 75, passed away peacefully with his family by his side, on May 9, 2025 at Crossroad House Batavia. Sal was born in Batavia, NY on July 15, 1949, to the late Anthony "Butch" and Jennie "Celia" (Cianfrini) Zito. In addition to his parents, Sal is predeceased by his son, Salvatore A, Zito, Jr.

Sal graduated from Batavia Senior High School in 1967. He worked at Batavia Downs and then worked for many years at Genesee Brewery, Rochester, NY. Sal was an avid sports fan of the Yankees, Buffalo Bills, Horse Racing and Boxing. Sal was a lifetime member of the Rochester Boxing Association. 

Sal is survived by his sisters, Carol (Brian) Wolfley and Connie (the late Bill) Ray of Batavia, Grandson's Tory Zito, of Rochester, NY and Ryley Zito of Hamlin, NY, Nephew Anthony "Tony" Ray Sr. and his son Anthony "Butchie" Ray Jr., Niece Jaime (Jason) Pratt and their son Naz Pratt and their daughter Anna Pratt of Batavia, Daughter-In-Law Aimee Zito of Hamlin, many cousins and friends. Sal you will be missed!

Warren, thank you for being a phone call away!

Thank you to family and friends that reached out to us and came to visit Sal at Crossroads House during this difficult time. We would like to thank everyone at Crossroads and Hospice in Batavia for being so compassionate to Sal and our family during this difficulty time. 

There will be no prior calling hours. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. 

Memorials may be made to Crossroads House www.crossroadshouse.com please note in memo Salvatore A. Zito Sr. For more information please call (585) 343-8260 or 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.

Herbert Hammond

By T.J. Woodward
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Herbert Hammond, 95, of Batavia passed away on May 6, 2025 at the United Memorial Medical Center. He was born in Bell Island, Newfoundland, Canada on June 16, 1929 to the late Eli and Ethel (Picco) Hammond. In addition to his parents, Herbert is predeceased by his wife; Lucy Hammond; daughter Paula Hammond and brothers William and Merril Hammond. 

Herbert worked as a Miner on Bell Island. He was a Merchant Sailor on the Great Lakes and ended up coming to the United States with his family when the mine closed. He then worked for Canada Dry in College Point, NY for 30 years. 

He is survived by his children; Gary (Birgitt) Hammond of Corfu and Glenn (Patricia) Hammond of Batavia; sisters Hazel Hammond and Marie Skanes; 7 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild, along with many nieces and nephews. 

Friends are invited to call on Wednesday May 14, 2025 from 10:30AM-12:30PM at Gilmartin Funeral Home 329-333 West Main Street Batavia, NY 14020. A 1:00PM Funeral Service will follow at St James Episcopal Church 405 E. Main St. in Batavia. Herbert will be laid to rest in Grandview Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Gateway Home in Attica.  For more information please call (585) 343-8260 or to sign a message of condolence please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.comArrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home 329-333 West Main Street Batavia, New York 14020.

 

Pandora L. Henning

By Joshua Smith

Pandora L. Henning of Attica, age 69, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, in Attica, NY. A cherished resident of this community, Pandora was a beloved sister, aunt, and friend.

Pandora was born on August 13, 1955, in Warsaw, New York. A daughter of the late Ronald F. and June (Wilson) Henning.

Pandora had a special affection for old TV shows, a pastime that brought her joy and comfort over the years. She found a deep connection with the nostalgia of classic television, which often sparked lively conversations and joyous reflections with those around her.

Pandora is survived by her brother, Kenneth Henning, and his wife, Christine, and her sister, Paula Schaefer, and her husband, Richard. She was a loving aunt to many nieces and nephews, who will remember her warmth, humor, and the love she shared with all. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Eric Henning and Ronald Henning, who are fondly remembered in the hearts of their family and friends.

Arrangements for Pandora are under the compassionate care and direction of Marley Funeral Home. At the wishes of the family there will be no calling hours or services.

In loving memory of Pandora L. Henning—a woman of warmth and humor who will be deeply missed and forever cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing her.

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

Joseph M. Morelli

By Joshua Smith

Joseph M. Morelli, of Oakfield, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 5th, 2025, at the age of 56. Born on December 29th, 1968, in Batavia, to the late Joseph and Mayme Ferrari Morelli.

He dedicated much of his life to his craft as a skilled carpenter, working most recently for 34 Group, Inc. in Buffalo. He found immense joy in hunting, fishing, cooking, and training dogs. He was truly considered a joker by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He is survived by his sisters, Cynthia Morelli and Angela, along with her husband Peter Fogg and their two children Christina and Peter Junior; two great nephews, Duncan and Mark Fogg; his daughters, Dana Morelli and Sabrina Morelli; along with several cousins.

In accordance with Joseph’s wishes, there will be no prior calling hours. Private services will be held at the convenience of his family. Those who wish to honor Joseph's life may make donations to the Morelli family. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in his name, please visit www.burdettandsanford.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Burdett & Sanford Funeral Home. 11 Maple Avenue, Oakfield.

Robert L. Ehmann

By Joshua Smith
Ehmann

Robert L. Ehmann of Batavia, age 100, passed away on May 5, 2025 at The New York State Veterans Home of Batavia.

He was born May 8, 1924 in Buffalo, a son of the late Henry and Hazel (Lee) Ehmann.

Robert loved the outdoors. He was a member of Godfrey’s Pond and took pleasure in gardening, working outdoors, and shooting at the range. During his years residing at home, he took great pleasure in his daily walks and was a well-known and warmly regarded presence in his neighborhood. Whether on television or in a book, he enjoyed a good mystery story, but above all he valued spending time with his family.

As a 18-year-old drill press operator, Robert enlisted in the ARMY on November 10, 1942, where he underwent training with Company C, 5 th Signal Battalion for 10 months and 29 days. He departed for the European theatre of operation on June 16, 1944 and landed at Normandy Beach on D+24, June 30 1944. After serving 1 year, 9 months, and 32 days, participating in the Rhineland Central Europe campaign, private first class, Robert Ehmann returned to the United States on March 9, 1946. Serving a total of 3 years, 5 months, and 13 days. A highly decorated warrior, PFC Robert Ehmann received the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, World War II Victory Medal, and Good conduct Medal.

Survivors include his siblings, David (Marlene) Ehmann and Andrea Ehmann; grandchildren, Julie (Ken) Henry and Robert (Tricia) Ehmann; great grandchildren, Nathan Henry, Noah (Ariana) Henry, Victoria Ehmann, and Andrew Ehmann: daughter-in-law, Patricia Ehmann, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In death Robert is reunited with the love of his life, Eleanor Ehmann; son, James Ehmann; parents, Henry and Hazel (Lee) Ehmann.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of H.E. Turner & Co., Inc. Funeral Home. There will be no calling hours or services. Burial will be at the convenience of the family in Evergreen Hill Cemetery, Corfu.

In Lieu of flowers donations may be made to: Arthritis Foundation, P.O. Box 96280 Washington,
DC 20077.

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

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