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Obituaries

Lawrence J. Tassone

By T.J. Woodward
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Lawrence (Larry) J. Tassone, 93, of Batavia died unexpectedly February 12th 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.coArrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, NY 14020.

Bruce N. Culling

By T.J. Woodward
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Fort Myers, Florida – Bruce N. Culling a resident of Fort Myers, Fl and former resident of DeBary, FL and Batavia, NY passed away Friday February 14, 2025. Mr. Culling was born in Batavia, NY on May 8, 1928, a son of Noble L. and Elva C. Culling and graduated from Batavia High School in 1946.

He was predeceased by his wife of sixty-two years; Dorothy (Tiede); parents and sister Clarice (Yale) Willard.

Bruce is survived by his son Larry (Nancy) Culling of Fort Myers, daughter Vicki (Wayne) Palmer of Pavilion, grandsons Eric Culling of Fort Myers, Kyle (Nicole) Palmer of Pavilion, granddaughters Kara (Kevin) Hall of Fort Myers, Kimberly (Chris) DuBois of Rochester, great grandchildren Erica, Blake, Breanna, and Aiden Palmer, Hailey and Cole DuBois and Kaylynn and Katherine Hall.

Mr. Culling is also survived by brother-in-law Roger Tiede of Connecticut and sister-in-law Marlene (David Tiede) Beausoleil of  Cottonwood,  Arizona and many nieces, nephews and great nieces and great nephews. 

Bruce was well known in Batavia during his more than twenty year tenure at Adam Miller Toys.  He also worked at Sylvania and Lapp Insulator before moving to Florida in 1974.   In Florida, he worked at Scotty’s Lumber in Sanford, Fl until his retirement. 

There will be no prior calling hours. A Memorial Service will be held at the convenience of the family.

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

Sheri A. Allen

By Joshua Smith
Allen

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Sheri A. Allen. She was born on March 10, 1975 in Batavia and passed away on February 9, 2025.

Sheri was a dedicated food operation manager at Sodexo in Rochester, where she worked, fostering a sense of camaraderie and professionalism. Her commitment to her community was further exemplified by her proud membership in the Elba Fire Department and her ongoing studies to become an EMT. Sheri’s life was guided by her deep faith as a faithful Christian, and she was a cherished daughter, sister, aunt, great-aunt, and friend to many.

Throughout her life, Sheri was known for her big, loud laugh that brightened any room and brought smiles to all she encountered. She shared her love for travel, whether exploring Ohio, Kentucky, California, or traveling across New York State. Sheri was also a devoted cat mom to her beloved Zoe and found joy in attending concerts of her favorite artists.

Sheri touched countless lives with her kindness and warmth. She was someone who easily made friends, relished gatherings with family and church, and took pleasure in sharing stories and creating good memories. Her presence brought a steady and comforting influence, and she shared the simple joys of life with those around her.

Sheri is survived by her father, Richard J. (Carolyn) Allen of Elba; her brother, Scott (Sandra) Allen of Basom; her cherished nieces and nephews, Tucker (Susanna) Allen of Basom, Rebekah (Daniel) Avila of Cedar City, Utah, Jenna (Tony) Avila of San Diego, California, and Marissa (Jeff) Kolarz of Oakfield; and her treasured great-nieces and great-nephews, Evelyn and Amelia Allen, August, Selena and Gabriel Avila, Josie and Aurora Kolarz, and Jaylynn Camerera. She is also survived by her aunt, Lori Gamin, and her cousin, Fred (Joellen) Neindorf of Fort Smith, Arkansas.

Sheri was preceded in death by her loving mother, Grace M. Allen; her nephew, Jacob Camerera; her aunt, Bonnie Neindorf; and her uncles, Linford Gamin and Frederick Neindorf.

A celebration of Sheri's life will be held at Grace Baptist Church, 238 Vine Street, Batavia, on Friday, February 21, 2025 at 11 am where her life, love, and laughter will be remembered by all who knew her. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Sheri can be made to Volunteers for Animals, P.O. Box 1621, Batavia, New York 14021. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in her memory, please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

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

Sheri will forever hold a special place in the hearts of her family and friends, and she will be deeply missed by all.

Donald R. Pfalzer

By Lisa Ace
Donald R. Pfalzer


Donald R. Pfalzer, 91, of Darien Center, NY, passed away on Saturday, February 15, 2025 at his residence.

He was born on April 5, 1933 in Batavia, NY, a son of the late Ralph and Grace Rodgers Pfalzer.

Mr. Pfalzer worked for many years at Blew Equipment in Akron, NY before opening his own business “Pfalzer’s Garage” in 1982 and retiring in 2016 at the age of 83.

He is predeceased by his wife Marilyn (Zetterberg) Pfalzer, brothers James (late Theresa) Pfalzer, John Pfalzer, Thomas (late Janet) Pfalzer and sister Jean (late Richard) Ewert.

Survivors include his children; Donna Hinze (Ray Penkszyk), Donald (Patricia) Pfalzer, Donyce (Bruce) Kraus, Dennis (Margaret) Pfalzer, Doneen Pfalzer and special grandson Raymond “Chopper” Pfalzer. Siblings, LaVern (Joan) Pfalzer, Eileen (Ron) Mast and sister-in-law Janet Pfalzer. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends may call Saturday, February 22, 2025 from 4 to 8 p.m. at the C. B. Beach & Son Mortuary, Inc., 4 East Main Street, Corfu, NY.  Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the donor’s choice. 

Lorraine Coppini

By Joshua Smith

Batavia - Lorraine Coppini, 94 of Batavia passed away on Saturday, February 15, 2025 at Premier Genesee Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation in Batavia, New York.

She was born August 23rd, 1930 in Batavia, New York, where she was a longtime member of St. Joseph's Church. She was a secretary for many years at James Martin Inc., until her retirement.  Lorraine enjoyed bowling but more importantly she loved spending time with her family.

She is survived by her children, Nancy Coppini of Batavia and Cathy Coppini of Perry. In death Lorraine is reunited with her parents; her loving husband Joseph; sister, June (late Earl) Pundt; and brother, David Thompson.

There are no prior calling hours.  Lorraine's Mass of Christian Burial will be Thursday (February 20, 2025) at 9:30 a.m. at Resurrection Parish - St. Joseph's Worship Site, 303 East Main Street in Batavia. Burial will immediately follow in St. Joseph's Cemetery in Batavia.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity of the donors choosing.

Arrangements for Lorraine were entrusted to the H.E. Turner & Co. Inc. Funeral Home, 403 East Main Street in Batavia.

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

Kathy Loraine Hartwig

By Joshua Smith
Kathy Hartwig

Kathy Loraine Hartwig, 74 left us to meet her lord on Wednesday February 12, 2025. Most recently she had been a resident of the Village Green nursing home in LeRoy.

Kathy was born in Batavia on November 10, 1950 to the late Stephen Winfield and Olive Marie (Baube) Mapes. In addition to her parents she is predeceased by her Husband Jack Hartwig and brother Stephen E. Mapes.

Kathy is survived by sister Vicki A. Moore of Prattville, AL and brother Richard W. Mapes of Batavia. Also surviving are stepsons Stephen and Chris Hartwig along with a host of wonderful nieces and nephews.

Kathy had a caring and rewarding career working for the county assisting others. She was past president of the Batavia Business and Professional Women’s club and spent many years volunteering at the Holland Land Office in Batavia. Generosity was a key attribute to Kathy’s life. If you needed a hand, she offered two. She will be sadly missed but knowing that she is in the hands of her lord is a comfort to all. Kathy was also a breast cancer survivor and so in lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

There are no prior calling hours. Services for Kathy will be held Saturday, February 22, 2025 at Our Lady Of Mercy, 44 Lake Street LeRoy, New York 14482, at 11 AM. Burial will occur at St. Francis Cemetery in the spring.

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

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

Frances J. Campo

By T.J. Woodward
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Frances J. Campo, 60 of Batavia, passed away on February 12, 2025. She was born in Rochester, to the late Joseph and Dolores Campo. She is preceded in death by her beloved son Marquis Holmes. 

Frances worked as a CNA at the VA in Batavia and loved to take care of people. Her family was very important to her, especially her grandson, always making sure he was taken care of, playing with him and feeding him were two things she loved to do. 

She is survived by her beloved daughter, Jazmine Holmes, siblings, Maria Link, Charlie Campo, her grandson Cyncere Suber, along with several nieces and nephews.

Friends are invited to an 11:00am Celebration of her Life on Monday, February 24, 2025 at Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, New York 14020. She will be laid to rest in Elmwood Cemetery, Batavia.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the donor’s choice. To leave an online message of condolence please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, New York 14020. 

 

Lisa Ann Dioguardi

By Joshua Smith
Dioguardi

Oakfield - Lisa Ann Dioguardi, 57, passed away on Friday, February 14, 2025.

She was born on May 25, 1967 in Warsaw, a daughter of the late Ronald Dioguardi and Doreen Mann Dioguardi.

The family would like to thank the people at the ARC, who were involved in Lisa's care over many, many years. You are truly special people.

She is survived by her siblings, Ronald (Janet) Dioguardi of South Carolina, David (Kristina) Dioguardi of East Bethany, Robin (late Charlie) Silvernail of Batavia, Cathy (George) Winspear of Arkansas and Deborah (Paul) Harris of East Bethany along with many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and cousins.

She is predeceased by her brother, Steven Dioguardi and her sister Roxanne Dioguardi.

There are no prior calling hours. Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. She will be laid to rest in St. Joseph's Cemetery, Batavia. Please consider donations in Lisa’s name may be made to ARC of Genesee County, 64 Walnut Street, Batavia, New York 14020. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle 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.

Fay Friedman

By Kara Richenberg
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Friedman, Fay (nee Terris) - March 14, 1926 – January 24, 2025

Formerly of Clarence, NY. Wife of the late Fred Friedman; mother of Robert (Cindy), Lawrence (Judy Lockridge), Richard (Rhonda Leal); sister of the late Miriam Fleischman and Murry Terris; grandmother of Justin, Kathryn, Rebecca (Sergio), Suzanna (David), Elliot and Henry; great grandmother of Scout, Hilde and Maisie. A Funeral Service will be held Friday, February 21 at 11 a.m. at MESNEKOFF FUNERAL HOME, 8630 Transit Rd., E. Amherst, NY 14051. Donations in Fay’s memory may be made to the Fay & Fred Friedman Family Foundation Fund c/o Community Foundation of Greater Buffalo. Share condolences at mesnekoff.com

Ray C. Gould

By Lisa Ace
Ray C. Gould


Ray C. Gould, 86 of Elba passed away on Sunday, February 9, 2025.  

He was born March 3, 1938 in Springwater, NY the son of the late William and Edith (Bathrick) Gould.
He was preceded in death by his son Thomas Gould, grandson Terence Constable III, great grandson Samuel Jacob.

Ray is survived by his wife of 65 years, Willie Mae (Freeland) Gould, his children Cheryl (Joe) Mack, Laura (Don) Worthington, Debbie (Terry) Constable, Helen (Jeff) Kedzierski, and Sue Stone, daughter in law Roxanne (Sommerfeldt) Gould, thirteen grandchildren and twenty-two great grandchildren.

Ray was a veteran of the United States Marines serving from 1956 – 1962.  After a long career as a truck driver, he retired from Tyler Truck Lines.

He was very proud of his growing family and teaching valuable life skills to his many grandchildren such as fishing, hunting and smoking the perfect pork shoulder.  He also loved traveling cross-country in his camper exploring all the U.S. had to offer.    
Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. He will be laid to rest with military honors in the Western New York National Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, donations in Ray’s name can be made to the American Cancer Society by visiting their website at https://donate.cancer.org.

Spencer Wriley Schmidt

By T.J. Woodward
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In Loving Memory of Spencer Wriley Schmidt 

Spencer Wriley Schmidt, a beloved son and cherished brother, age 22, of Batavia, NY, passed away suddenly on Sunday, February 9, 2025, as a result of a tragic snowmobile accident in Webb, NY. Born on April 12, 2002, in Batavia, Spencer brought immense joy and love into the lives of everyone he encountered. He is survived by his devoted parents, Krysten and Edward, and his loving brother, Jordyn Schmidt. 

A graduate of Batavia High School in 2020, Spencer was not only a student but also an enthusiastic teammate on the Batavia baseball team. Following graduation, he embraced his role as a service technician at Skyworks Equipment Rental, where his passion for his work and the relationships he formed with his colleagues shone brightly. 

To everyone, he was known as "Burger”. He was a vibrant soul who touched the hearts of many. He thrived on sharing life’s moments with friends and family, finding joy in a multitude of activities. Spencer loved snowmobiling in Old Forge. If the snow was falling, Burger was riding. He was a proud member of Batavia Country Club, where Thursday night summer league became the highlight of his week. Burger enjoyed exploring the great outdoors as an avid hunter. He cherished the time spent working on sleds and trucks with his dad in the garage and enjoyed cruising in his “Red” square body Chevy. Spencer’s infectious laugh and radiant smile will forever be etched in the memories of all who knew him. 

Spencer is also survived by his loving grandparents, Bill and Tarynn Willson, and Helene Schmidt (the late Bud Schmidt), as well as his aunts and uncles: Denice (Lee) Simpson, Steve (Ellen) Schmidt, Mark (Tammy) Schmidt, Linda (Dave) Beckinghausen, Matthew Willson, Travis Willson, Adam (Kate) Willson, Shalayne Willson, Laycee Willson, and Kalyssa Willson, along with many cousins who loved him. 

A gathering to celebrate Spencer’s life will take place on Wednesday, February 19th, 2025, from 3 to 7 PM at Northgate Free Methodist Church, located at 8160 Bank Street, Batavia, NY 14020. A 10:00AM Service honoring his memory will be held on Thursday, February 20th, 2025 at Northgate Free Methodist Church. He will be laid to rest in Grand View Cemetery, Batavia. 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to Batavia Youth Baseball PO Box 1828 Batavia, NY 14021 where a scholarship will be made in Spencer’s name. In addition, Spencer’s passion to snowmobile please consider donating to Folsom Trailblazers PO Box 55 Attica, NY 14011, honoring Spencer's vibrant spirit and love for life. 

Spencer will be profoundly missed, yet his legacy of love and laughter will continue to inspire all of us. 

To leave an online message of condolence please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, New York 14020. 

Lois T. Sisson

By LaVern Falcone

Lois T Sisson, 96, of LeRoy, NY, died in the care of the Crossroads House, Tuesday, February 11, 2025. 

     Lois was born June 13, 1928, in Caledonia, NY, a daughter of the late Thomas and Mary Doran McQuillen.   

Lois Sisson

  A graduate of LeRoy High School, Lois worked at Holy Family School, in LeRoy for many years after raising her children. Bound by her faith and unconditional love of family, Lois was most happy when following the athletic events of her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Her strength and work ethic leading by example until her death. Lois was a member of St. Peters Church in LeRoy. 

     She was pre-deceased by her husband of 64 years, M. Edwin Sisson, as well as her siblings, Annamae (Bud) Stone, Francis (Dottie), and Robert (Margaret) McQuillen. She is survived by her children: Kathy (late Jeffrey) Ellingham, James (Elizabeth) Sisson, Barb (Tom) White, and John (Theresa) Sisson. She is also survived by grandchildren, Becky Powers, Joshua Ellingham, Chrissy (Maj James) Gibbs, Brendan Brooks, Marcelle (Chris) Banner, Rachael and Lucy White, Michael (Kati) Sisson, Jennifer (Chris) O’Reilly, and Casey Sisson, and also by great grandchildren, Lexi, Dekker, Rowan, Kallum, Maddox, Emery, Delta, Tobin, Aiden, Emma, Molly, Finn, and Grady. 

     There will be no calling hours. Family and friends are invited to attend her Mass of Christian Burial to be held on Saturday, April 5 at 11:00 AM at Our Lady of Mercy Parish, St. Peter’s Church, 44 Lake St., LeRoy. 

     The family would like to extend their sincere thanks and appreciation for the compassion and care received at the Crossroads House of Batavia. 

     In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to: Notre Dame High School, 73 Union Street, Batavia, NY 14020, or Crossroads House, 11 Liberty Street, P.O. Box 403, Batavia, NY 14021.  www.crossroadshouse.com/donate 

     Your memories and condolences may be shared with Lois’ family at www.falconefuneralhome.com, “as far as that goes”. 

Leota D. Hagen

By Joshua Smith
L. Hagen

Leota D. Hagen of Oakfield went to her heavenly home on February 10, 2025.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 72 years, Allen L. Hagen. Leota was born on November 18, 1927, in Alexander, New York to the late Charles and Bertha Bluman. 

Leota was a faithful member of the Oakfield United Methodist Church since 1961 and was a dedicated volunteer of the Oakfield Thrift Store for many years, enjoying the fellowship of other volunteers. Leota graduated from Alexander Central High School and worked as a secretary at the Veterans Administration in Buffalo and Batavia, New York. She enjoyed square dancing, where she met Allen. They resided in Oakfield, New York, in the home she designed and helped build in 1962. She was a devoted wife and stay-at-home mother of their 3 daughters.  Leota was an avid seamstress and enjoyed designing and sewing clothes for them. She also loved baking, gardening, canning the produce from their vegetable garden, and surrounding their home with flower beds.

Leota is predeceased by her eight siblings, Ralph Bluman, Pearl Spencer Savage, Oscar Bluman, Agnes Sarach, Olive Welker, Orial Kryman, Homer Bluman, and Hazel Hart. 

Survived are her daughters, Laurel (Eric) Adams of Oakfield and their children, Sean Adams of Oakfield, Leif Adams of Oakfield, and Kari (Victor) Luis of Norwalk, CT; Cheryl (Stephen) Nichols of Pavilion and their children Michelle (Adam) Martocello of Rochester, Mark Nichols of Batavia, James (Melanie) Nichols of Oakfield and Maia Nichols of Pavilion; Crystal Hagen (Dr. Frank Pignatelli) of Rochester and their children Matthew (Brynn) Mayback of Denver, CO, Jonathan (Mandy)  Mayback of N. Chili, Nathan (Maureen) Maycheco of Aurora, CO, and Janelle Mayback of Corinth, MS: 12 greatgrandchildren, sisters-in-law Sally Robins and Laura Hagen: and several nieces and nephews.

The Hagen family will be present from 6:00 to 8:00 PM on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, and 11:00 to 1:00 on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at the Oakfield United Methodist Church, 2 South Main Street, Oakfield, NY 14125, where the funeral services will commence at 1:00 PM. Mrs. Hagen will be laid to rest in Cary Cemetery next to her beloved husband. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials in her memory are suggested to the church or the Oakfield Volunteer Fire Dept.  

 

Leota’s faith in Christ was evident in her daily life. Although her presence on earth will be missed, she eagerly anticipated her new home in heaven. Please join the Hagen family at the Oakfield United Methodist Church following cemetery services for a reception in honor of Leota D. Hagen. 

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

Helen Batchellor

By Joshua Smith
Batchellor

Helen Batchellor, beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend, passed away Saturday, February 8th, at United Memorial Medical Center in Batavia at the age of 99.

Helen was born on August 6, 1925, in Elba, N.Y., the daughter of John Baker and Margaret Coughlin Baker. She graduated from Albion High School in 1943 and married the love of her life, Donald Batchellor, on September 22, 1945.  Helen was a member of St. Mary’s Church, St. Joseph Sodality, St. Jerome Hospital Guild since 1949, and co-chaired the 100-year celebration of the Jerome Center, where she volunteered in the gift shop for many years.  She became involved with the Holland Land Office and Museum over 50 years ago and served on the Board of Directors for 30 years.  She was a member of the Stafford Historical Society, Herb Society, Collectors Club, and a life member of Stafford Fire Department and its’ Exempts. Helen founded the Stafford Garden Club and was instrumental in the building of the Stafford Gazebo. She was a member of the American Cancer Society, Genesee County Fish and Game Association, and an original volunteer of Genesee County’s RSVP program.  Helen was an avid fan of the P.O.N.Y baseball league and Muckdogs at Dwyer Stadium where she could be seen several times a week.  Proud to be the first woman president of Leroy PTA, she helped to institute positive changes.  When the Genesee Country Village and Museum opened in 1976, Helen served as a docent for many years. One of her greatest passions was the veteran community and she faithfully volunteered every week at the VA Medical Center for over 40 years.  She spearheaded the effort to erect a monument that honors all veterans from the Stafford area and saw it to completion.  The Wonderland of Trees held each Christmas season is a result of Helen’s creativity, and it continues to be a popular event each year. She was involved in so many more organizations throughout her long life, always motivated by seeing the good that could be accomplished.

Helen’s zest for life and dynamic personality were an inspiration to all who knew her.  With her tremendous energy and drive, she championed many causes.  An extrovert, she was always quick with a joke and never met a person she could not talk to at length. She loved working in her garden, watching sports, traveling, quilting, and shopping. She owns many collections of antique treasures from the auctions she loved to attend.  Her knowledge of history was truly remarkable, and she often told stories of growing up in Elba and Batavia, easily recalling events from the past.  She had a special interest in family genealogy and worked tirelessly to trace the Batchellor lineage.  She loved her family with all her heart, and they loved her right back. She leaves behind a legacy of strength through service and finding humor in any situation.

Helen is survived by her son, Gary Batchellor of Batavia; two daughters, Donna (Dave) Croft of Butler, PA. and Gale (Jorge) Mondragon of Honduras; eight grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, the late Donald Batchellor and her brother, the late John C Baker.

The family would like to thank the third-floor nursing staff at United Memorial Medical Center for their kindness and loving care during her last days; and to the NY State Veterans Home where she resided and thrived among the veterans she loved so much.  We are truly grateful for the love and support given by Diane Hawn, and lastly, we will always treasure Deb Goodenbury (Helen’s “angel”), who was her caretaker, nurse, and friend, going above and beyond to provide exceptional care and ministry over the years when Helen lived at home.

Friends may call at the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home from 4 to 7 pm on February 21.  A mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 Saturday, February 22 at Ascension Parish Church, 19 Sumner St. Memorials in her honor may be made to the Holland Land Office and Museum or to Genessee Country Village and Museum.

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

Donna Mae Reinhardt

By Lisa Ace
Donna Mae Reinhardt


Donna Mae Reinhardt 

Our angel on Earth passed unexpectedly, Monday, February 10, 2025 at home.

Beloved Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Sister and Friend. Donna was born August 12, 1939, the daughter of Edward and Hazel Heist. She is survived and cherished by her husband Frank (Mickey) Reinhardt. Her children; Theresa (James) Brancifort, Deborah (Tim) Baker, Kenneth (Beth) Lipinski, and Penny Humel. Numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren. Siblings, Eileen Della Penna, Jerry Heist and Sally (Bruce) Longbine.

In passing she is reunited with her parents, Son James Lipinski and Son-In-Law Scott Humel. 

Donna's passion in life was her Family. She spread Love and Joy to so many. Donna was an avid gardener and a lifelong Bills and Elvis fan. Donna is the Heart and very very core of her family. She will be truly, sadly and deeply missed. 

Friends and family may call on Sunday, February 16, 2025 from 2 to 5 pm at the C. B. Beach & Son Mortuary, Inc., 4 East Main Street, Corfu, NY. Funeral services will be held at the mortuary on Monday, February 17th at 11 a.m., followed by a private burial. 

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