Obituaries

Mary Lee Knights, of Knowlesville, NY, entered into rest on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at the Providence Regional Hospital in Everett, WA.

Born October 27, 1944, in Tupper Lake, NY, she was the only child of the late Louis and Frances (McDonald) Gourd and stepfather, Joseph “Corky” Arsenault. Mary Lee was a graduate of Tupper Lake High School, Class of 1962 and went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from SUNY Potsdam and her master’s from The Ohio State University in 1969. On August 19, 1972, she married the late Kenneth E. Knights. Together they raised a family of three children on Kniland Dairy Farms in Knowlesville. They were well known for growing and selling giant pumpkins every fall.

Mary Lee began her career as a guidance counselor and teacher for the Medina Central School District. Later, she and the late Marlene Maier co-founded Kniland Nursery School, where she helped nurture young minds in their earliest years. Once her children were in grade school, she worked part-time at the Medicine Shoppe before becoming the Coordinator of Religious Education at St. Mary’s Parish in Medina. She also worked for BOCES and played a pivotal role in OCALS as a charter board member, where she served as past president, tutor, tutor trainer, GED tester, and evaluator. In 2023, her dedication to literacy was recognized when she received the OCALS Lighting the Way to Learning Award. A woman of deep faith, she was a devoted parishioner in all aspects of Holy Trinity Catholic Parish, St. Mary’s Church in Medina.

Mary Lee was known by those close to her as a “professional volunteer,” always ready to lend a hand or support to whomever needed it. She was active in the Medina Jayncees, Sweet Adelines barbershop quartet, Beta Sigma Phi Sorority (since 1986), Catholic Daughters in both Medina, NY and Everett, WA, and was a member of St. Mary’s Choir. A lifelong lover of swimming, she was a lifeguard in her youth, and in the 1980’s, led a successful fundraising campaign as YMCA president to establish the Lake Plains School pool. She also played a key role in organizing the annual Medina Canal Festival as a committee member. Mary Lee found joy in music, her family, community, and the friendships she built through her many activities.

Her warmth extended to all living beings, especially animals, and she always had a canine companion by her side. In recent years, her beloved dog, Jessie, was her constant and devoted friend.

Mary Lee was predeceased by her husband, Kenneth, in 2021 and her dear aunt, Eileen “Nee Nee” Trombley, in 2019. Left to cherish her memory are her three children, Chad (Randi) Knights of VA, Laura (Sean) Knights Riley and Fran (Stuart) Knights Sabin, both of Seattle, WA; four grandchildren, Skylar and Emerson Knights, Joseph and Kate Riley; and two sisters in-law, Kathryn Knights of Buffalo and Barbara Clark of Medina. She is also remembered with love by many dear friends who became like family, sharing in the joy of her life and the kindness she so freely gave.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, March 6 from 4-7PM at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, March 7 at 11AM at Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church, 211 Eagle St., Medina. Interment will be in Mt. Albion Cemetery, Albion. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Medina Scholarship Fund, PO Box 185, Medina, NY 14103 or to PAWS, 3371 Gaines Basin Rd., Albion, NY 14411. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

William P. Luckenbach, 75 of Batavia, passed away peacefully on Wednesday (February 19, 2025) at The Grand Rehabilitation and Nursing Center.

He was born February 24, 1949, in Warsaw, NY, a son of the late William and Angela LaTorto Luckenbach.

William was a U.S. Army Veteran, having served his country from 1968-1970. He was a truck driver for several years.

Survivors include his children, Anthony Luckenbach, Adam Luckenbach, Amy Luckenbach and Allison Terranova. Brother, Edgar Luckenbach. Sisters, Andrea Garcia and Cynthia Donaher. Also survived by grandchildren.

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.

Anya Rambuski, 54 passed away Sunday, February 16, 2025 as a result of a car accident. She was born in New York on February 24, 1970.  She is survived by three sisters. 

Anya was a kind and caring woman who was willing to help anyone with a need as long as it was in her power to do so. She was a much-loved member of The Church In Alexander where she started attending four years ago.  She was welcomed with open arms and quickly became part of the family volunteering in the food ministries. She was always available to help on Pop Up Pantry days and to work in the dining room during Community Dinners. When the need was made known, she stepped forward to take over the coordination of volunteers for our in-house food pantry and had recently signed up to teach Sunday School with the children. 

Anya faced many struggles throughout her life and was working to overcome many obstacles; however, she was always willing to help and aid others. She had a large and diverse group of friends in the Batavia area including Maxiene and Don among others, and referred to her church friends as her family.  Anya was a lover of all animals and leaves behind her beloved dog Sadie along with many broken-hearted people. 

A Celebration of Life will be held at The Church In Alexander, 3389 Church St., Alexander, NY 14005 on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Church In Alexander Food Pantry or the Genesee County Animal Shelter c/o Genesee County Sheriff's Office, 165 Park Rd, Batavia, NY 14020. Expressions of sympathy can 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.

Joan F. Barnett-Samsel, 73 of Batavia, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday (February 21, 2025) at United Memorial Medical Center.

She was born June 13, 1951 in Lewisburg, PA, a daughter of the late Jonas and Ferne Knittle Barnett.

Joan was the operator and owner of Home Care Helpers, who cared for numerous individuals throughout this region.

Survivors include her husband, Richard Samsel of Batavia. Children, Scott Lardner, Shawn Lardner and Amy Rasmussen. Sister, Teressa (Frank) Stump. Also survived by several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was the sister of the late Barbara Gill and Frank Barnett.

Funeral 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.

Caledonia / Greece ~ Vicky Marie SinClair, age 44, passed away suddenly on Feb. 18, 2025. 

     She was born July 17, 1980 in Rochester, the daughter of the late Pamela M. SinClair and the granddaughter of Marie SinClair Manley.

     Vicky graduated from Caledonia-Mumford Central School in 1998, where she enjoyed cheerleading and social activities.  Vicky loved her daughter, Stella, beyond words and maintained daily contact with her grandmother, who adored her.  

   As a young woman, Vicky was diagnosed with a chronic illness which prevented her from reaching the potential she was capable of.

     Vicky will be missed by her family and friends who stood by her and held her in their prayers. 

     She is survived by her daughter, Estelle Marie Golden; maternal grandmother, Marie SinClair Manley (Bill Goodburlet); aunt, Becky (Mark) Schroeder; uncle, Robert (Kristin) SinClair, Jr.; cousins, Brian (Kela) SinClair, Mark (Emilee) Schroeder, Robert (Hannah) SinClair, Stephanie (Jon) Hann, and Sarah (Chris) Schroeder and dear friend, Joshua McGinley.

     In addition to her mother, Pamela, she was predeceased by her maternal grandfather, Robert SinClair.

     Family and friends may call on Wednesday, February 26 from 4 ~ 7 PM at the Falcone Family Funeral & Cremation Service Inc., 8700 Lake St. Rd., LeRoy.  A Celebration of Vicky’s Life will be held on Thursday, February 27 at 12:30 PM at the LeRoy Country Club, 7759 E. Main Road (Rt. 5), LeRoy.

     In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Vicky are suggested to Teresa House, 21 Highland Road, Geneseo, N.Y. 14454  www.teresahouse.org/donation

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

Melissa L. Smith “Missi”, 69 of Batavia, passed away peacefully on Wednesday (February 19, 2025) at United Memorial Medical Center.

She was born April 11, 1955 in Batavia, NY, a daughter of the late Richard and Doris Sauter Schildwaster.

Missi was a graduate of Notre Dame High School where she followed in her mothers footsteps and started working for the Williams Law Firm in Batavia. Upon having her children, she switched places and became a stay at home mom to care for her family. She was very involved at St. James Episcopal Church with the Prayer Shawl Ministry, choir, dementia respite, pie baking and fund raising. She enjoyed to knit and crochet, but her pride and joy was her family, especially her grandson Dominic. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Survivors include her husband, Robert J. Smith Jr. of Batavia. Daughters, Amy (Peter) Celentano of Bergen, Megan Hausler of Maine and Kelsey Smith of Pennsylvania. Cherished grandson, Dominic. Brother, Scott (Judy) Schildwaster of Batavia. Nieces and nephews also survive.

She was predeceased by her beloved canine, JoeJoe.

No prior visitation. Family and friends are cordially invited to a Celebration of Life Service on Tuesday (Feb. 25^th), 10am at St. James Episcopal Church, 405 E. Main Street, Batavia, NY.

Memorial contributions in her name may be offered to the ministry at St. James Episcopal Church. 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.

Patricia A. Rice, passed away on Monday February 17, 2025.  She was born on December 30^th, 1936, in Bergen, NY.

After leaving the family farm in Byron, Patricia became a stewardess for Capitol Airlines, predecessor to today's United, where she met the love of her life, Robert Rice. They married on September 28^th, 63. She is survived by her husband Robert of 61 years where they shared love, golf and travel with their 2 boys, Kyle (Debi) Rice of East Bethany and Jody (Tracy) Rice of Batavia. 

Predeceased are her parents William and Gertrude Krause. They had 6 children, William (deceased), Robert (Deceased) and Delores (Deceased), Surviving, Marty (Donna) of Bergen and Joan of Batavia. Many nieces and nephews she cherished.

Pat was an accomplished musician singing Capella harmonies with the Sweet Adelines for many years.  Complimenting her singing skills, she also enjoyed playing trumpet, guitar, and the piano.  One of Pat's greatest joys was the game of golf. As a long-term member of the Batavia Country Club, she won multiple Ladies Championships and along with Bob's golf skills, many couples events.  At her prime, she could give many of the men a run.  She loved not only her golf but spending beautiful summer days outside with friends along with the challenges of the sport.

After 25 years of service as a school bus driver for Byron-Bergen, culminating as the district Director of Transportation, she retired and relocated to Florida with Robert to enjoy many more sunny days on the greens.

Services will be announced at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, Pat requests any donations to be sent to the St. Jude’s Children Hospitals and Good Shepherd Hospice, 2140 E. County Rd. 540 A Lakeland Fl. 33813. To leave an online message of condolence please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, NY 14020

Batavia - Judy Ann (Hoy) DuBois, 89 of Batavia passed away on Thursday (February 13, 2025) at United Memorial Medical Center.

Ms. DuBois was born January 19, 1936 in Buffalo, a daughter of the late Harry and Edna (Warstiz) Hoy, Sr.

Judy grew up with a large family in Bennington, who she truly loved. She loved sharing stories about her younger years. Judy worked numerous years at Cummins and Bricker to provide for herself and her son. When someone needed something she was always there to lend a helping hand. Her radiant smile would light up a room. She enjoyed her time with the Bennington Senior group playing cards and eating desserts. She will live on in our hearts.

Surviving is her son, Rick (Amanda) Hoy of Wyoming; grandson, Anthony Hoy; sisters, Annette (late Louis) Miller of Bennington, and Karen (late Don) Balduf of Batavia; sister-in-law, Sherry Hoy of Bennington. Several nieces and nephews also survive.

In death, Judy is reunited with her parents; brothers, Harry (late Louise) Hoy, Jr., and James Hoy; sister, Marcia (late Donald) Linsey.

A private memorial service will be held at the convenience of the family. Burial will be in Sacred Heart of Jesus Cemetery in Bennington. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Wyoming County SPCA, PO Box 269, Attica, New York 14011. Arrangements for Judy were entrusted to the care of Marley Funeral Home, 135 Main Street in Attica. Online condolences at www.marleyfuneralhome.com.

Sheri Robertson Mort, 78, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 8, 2025. She was married to Rev. Wayne A. Mort, pastor of the Batavia First United Methodist Church for 56 years. Surviving are her daughters Stephanie (Christopher) Buwalda and Stacie (James) Maddox and five grandchildren: Catalin, Evonne, Lillian, Gabriel and Logan. In addition, there are nieces, nephews, a cousin, several other relatives and many friends.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at the Batavia First United Methodist Church on Saturday, February 22, 2025 at Noon. Calling hours will precede the service beginning at 11 a.m.—Noon.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Sheri’s memory to the Memorial Fund of the Batavia First United Methodist Church, 8221 Lewiston Road, Batavia, NY 14020. (585) 343-4708.

It is with profound sadness yet heartfelt celebration of an extraordinary life that we announce the passing of Kenneth R. Snyder, fondly known as "Kenny," who left us on Tuesday, February 18th, 2025. He was born on Tuesday, March 7th, 1967, in Batavia.

Kenny was the adored husband, best friend, and partner in crime of Nadine E. Snyder, whom he married on September 7, 1999. Their union was marked by love, laughter, and countless shared adventures. He is survived by his loving mother, Joanne Demler; daughters, Jessica Baryza (husband Scott) and their children, Gryfin and Lucas Baryza and Stephanie Jones (husband Daryl), her three children.

Also mourning his loss are his brother, Dennis Cummings (wife Lori), his nephew, Spencer Cummings, and niece, Jamie Rossiter (husband Sean). Kenny's warmth and joy touched the hearts of many dear friends who also survive him.

Preceding him in death were his father, Dennis Cummings, and Paul Snyder, who played a significant role in Kenny's upbringing.

Professionally, Kenny was a QSI Inspector at Niagara Testing in Buffalo. Known for wearing many hats, he was a "jack of all trades"—a talented welder, carpenter, and tow truck driver. His love for gardening, automotive repair, camping, fishing, good food, and being outdoors showcased his zest for life.

Kenny will forever be remembered as the life of the party, with a heart as generous as his spirit. His love for his friends was profound, and he would do anything for them.

A celebration of Kenny’s life will be held at a later date at Godfrey's Pond, where family and friends can gather to honor his memory. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made to Volunteers for Animals, P.O. Box 1621, Batavia, New York 14021, reflecting Kenny's compassionate nature. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in Kenny's name please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com. Arrangements are under the care and direction of the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, 403 East Main Street, Batavia.

Kenny's legacy will endure in the hearts of all who knew him: "If someone should ask for me, tell them Heaven is where I'll be."

        Rest in peace, Kenny. You will be missed dearly and remembered always.

Clarence Charles Boyer, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 15th, 2025. Born on Monday, July 15th, 1946, in Brockport, he lived a life marked by dedication, service, and cherished friendships.

Clarence was a proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps, where he earned the National Defense Service Medal and the Rifle Marksmanship Badge. His commitment to serve his country with honor and distinction is a testament to his character and integrity.

He worked at O&K Trojan in Batavia for many years. Following his time at Trojan he worked at Wal-Mart where he eventually retired. A man of simple pleasures, Clarence found joy in fishing and was a fan of both word and jigsaw puzzles.

Clarence is survived by many dear friends and cousins who will miss him greatly. He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Clarence Vanney Andrew Boyer and Dorothy Mae Boyles Boyer.

Graveside ceremonies, with military honors, will be held on Tuesday, February 25, 2025 at 11 am at the Western New York National Cemetery, 1254 Indian Falls Road, Corfu, New York 14036, ensuring that his service to the nation is properly remembered. Please assemble at the cemetery by 10:45 am. There will be a dinner to be held in his memory at a later date and time.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Clarence's memory to the Roswell Park Alliance Foundation, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 631, Buffalo, New York 14240-9856. 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.

Clarence Charles Boyer will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his country, his community, and his friends and family. His memory will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Henry H. Cook, entered into rest February 17, 2025. 
Beloved father of Tracey Cook, Lori (William) Penepent, Christopher (Tammy) Cook, Ryan (Tristan) Cook, Meghan Cook and Braelynn Cook; cherished grandfather of many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; loving brother of Joseph (Judy) Cook, Patrick (late Kathleen) Cook, Ethel Poynton and the late Timothy (Kathy) Cook; also survived by his amazing friend, Syeda Fava and many loving nieces and nephews. No prior visitation.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Resurrection Roman Catholic Church - St Joseph Worship Site, 303 E. Main St., Batavia, NY 14020 on Saturday (February 22) at 9:30AM. Flowers gratefully declined.

Patricia Fauth, 65, of Batavia passed away on Sunday February 16, 2025. She was born in Batavia on December 29, 1959 to Robert and the late Rose (Falcone) Moore. 

Patricia was a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, and mother. She loved cooking and taking care of her family. She enjoyed going on trips, camping throughout the country, and spending time with her loved ones. Lovingly remembered for her ability to always support, listen, laugh, and understand. Her compassion and heart will be greatly missed by everyone whose lives she encountered. Her unconditional love and welcoming nature will always be remembered. 

In addition to her father, She is survived by her sons; Alex Fauth of Alden and Scott Fauth of Batavia; siblings Gina (Aaron) Bresler of Bergen, Robert (Sue) Moore of Batavia, William (Kelly) Moore of Batavia, Stephen (Jeannie Tehan) Moore of Batavia and Julie (Ned) Chatt of Spencerport, along with many nieces and nephews. 

Services will be held privately for the family. She will be laid to rest in Elmwood Cemetery in Batavia. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital www.stjude.org. To leave an online message of condolence please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com   Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, NY 14020.

Franklin P. Lund, 90, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family after a brief illness.

Franklin was born April 26, 1934 in Batavia, a son of the late Harry V. and Mary (Laramy) Lund.

He now is together again with his wife, Joyce, daughter, Rhoda and brother, Ralph in heaven.  He leaves behind his sons, Rodney (Lori), Randy (Nicola) and Franklin Jr. (Shirley); daughter, Rindy; son-in-law, Doug (Nancy) Hensel; grandchildren, Ashley (Nick), Rebecca (Brent), Philip, Colin (Amber), Brian, Scott (Shari), Issac, Timothy, Matthew and Daniel; great-grandchildren, Tyler, Eli, Oliver, Tyler, Rhoda, Hayden, Savannah and Jackson and nieces and nephews.  Franklin will be missed by all that loved and knew him.

Franklin was a member of the Batavia First United Methodist Church, Town of Batavia Fire Department and a lifelong Mason.  He enjoyed golfing, bowling and trips to the casino.  Franklin was a Buffalo Bills and New York Mets fan.  He volunteered with Meals on Wheels and the Batavia Muckdogs.

There are no prior calling hours.  Franklin's Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 3 at the Batavia First United Methodist Church, 8221 Lewiston Road, Batavia.  He will be laid to rest in Grandview Cemetery in Batavia.  

Memorials may be made to the Batavia First United Methodist Church, 8221 Lewiston Road, Batavia, NY 14020.  

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

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

Lawrence (Larry) J. Tassone, 93, of Batavia died unexpectedly February 12^th at the home of his daughter (Jo Marie) and her husband (Barry Price) in Southern Pines, North Carolina. 

He was born on June 1, 1931 in Lancaster, NY to the late James and Josephine (Nicosia) Tassone, the youngest of 3 children.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by the love of his life, his wife, Theresa Teti in 1998; two sisters (Rachel March and Mary (Mim) Campobello), a nephew (James Campobello), two nieces (Frances March and Maryanne Semmens), his sisters-in-law (Liberata (Libby) Zaremski, Mary Gyr, and Giselle Teti), and his brothers-in-law (Anthony Zaremski, Samuel Campobello, Vincent March, Walter Gyr and Louis Teti). 

Larry worked side by side with his father as an onion farmer (James Tassone and Son). Following his father’s death in 1975 he continued onion farming until the age of 84. 

He was a lifelong member of St. Mary’s Church in Batavia serving as both an usher and lecturer where he also was a lifetime member of the Knights of Columbus. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, dining out, watching college basketball, the Yankees, the Buffalo Bills, and professional bowling. 

Survivors include his daughter Josephine (Jo Marie) Tassone (Barry Price) of Southern Pines, North Carolina and a son James Tassone (Patti) of New Berlin, Wisconsin. Mr. Tassone is also survived by his grandsons Jonathan Tassone (Holly) of West Allis, Wisconsin, and Jason Tassone (Melissa) of New Berlin Wisconsin, a great granddaughter Briella Marie Tassone of New Berlin Wisconsin, and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, four great-great nieces, and a great-great nephew. 

Respecting his wishes there will be no calling hours. A 9:30 Mass of Christian Burial / Celebration of Life will held on Saturday, March 1, 2025 at Resurrection Parish 303 East Main Street, Batavia, NY 14020. He will be laid to rest in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Batavia.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Notre Dame High School Foundation, 73 Union Street, Batavia, NY 14020, or a charity, foundation or organization of your choice. To leave an online message of condolence please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.co.  Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, NY 14020.