Obituaries

Batavia- Beverly Jane Shear, age 99, passed away on Friday, April 11, 2025, at LeRoy Village Green Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

Beverly was born on October 19, 1925 in Batavia, New York, a daughter of the late James and Elsie (Schultz) Shear.

She graduated from Batavia High School and soon after started her career at P. W. Minor as a buyer for 53 years until her retirement in 1997. Beverly enjoyed reading and traveling to see friends, especially her trips to Vermont and Florida with her cousins. She was a member of The 1st Presbyterian Church, YWCA, The Rainbow Club, and a volunteer at the Holland Land Office. 

In death Beverly is reunited with her parents, James and Elsie Shear; siblings, Shirley Mae Carr and Marcelene Marie Byrd; niece, Joan (Mike) Fricano and nephew Danny Byrd.

Surviving are her nieces and nephews, Sandy (Sean) O’Donnell, Ron (Candie) Carr, Dennis (Pat) Carr, Jim (late Mary) Carr, Shelby (Rose) Byrd, Ricky (Cha) and four generations of great nieces and nephews.  

The family would like to thank the staff of LeRoy Village Green for the wonderful care they provided.

Arrangements are under the care and supervision of H.E. Turner & Co., Inc. Funeral Home, 403 East Main Street, Batavia, NY 14020. There are no calling hours. Services will be held at the convenience of the family. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Beverly’s memory to: Batavia First Presbyterian Church, 300 E Main St, Batavia, NY 14020; Crossroads House, 11 Liberty St, Batavia, NY 14020; or The Buffalo City Mission, 100 East Tupper Street, Buffalo, NY 14203.

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

Carol J. Wilkosz, aged 67, passed away on Friday, April 11th, 2025, in her home in Oakfield. Born on  Saturday, December 21st, 1957, Carol brought warmth and joy to all who knew her.

Carol was a trailblazer and a woman of many accomplishments. She proudly graduated from Erie Community College, where she became the first woman in Genesee County to earn an engineering degree—an achievement that filled her with pride. Her professional journey led her to the Genesee County Highway Department, where she dedicated 32 years as a civil engineering technician before her well-deserved retirement.

As a lifelong fan of the Buffalo Bills, Carol's passion extended beyond her career. She was cherished by her neighbors on Knowlesville Road. Her love and generosity knew no bounds, especially towards her nieces and nephews, whom she adored and treated as her own children. Her heart also belonged to her beloved dog, CJ, who provided her with unconditional love and companionship.

Carol was preceded in death by her cherished life partner, John W. Mills, who departed on February 28, 2017. She was also predeceased by her loving parents, Edward and Genevieve Idzik Wilkosz, and her brother, Paul Edward Wilkosz.

She is survived by her sister, Patricia (Robert) Swanson of Batavia along with numerous nieces and nephews. Her passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew her.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Carol's life at a visitation scheduled on Wednesday, April 16th, 2025, from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm at Burdett & Sanford Funeral Home, 11 Maple Avenue, Oakfield. Her funeral service will follow at 1:30 pm at the funeral home. She will be laid to rest in Reed Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Carol's memory to Crossroads House, P.O. Box 403, Batavia, New York 14021. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in her memory, please visit www.burdettandsanford.com.

Daniel F. Henderson, 83 of Batavia, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Thursday, April 10, 2025 at Crossroads House. He was born March 9, 1942 in Batavia, to the late Robert Henderson and Elizabeth (Charles) Clancy. In addition to his parents Daniel is also predeceased by his wife, Florence (Cerce) Henderson.

Daniel worked for many years and retired from Lapp Insulator in LeRoy. Upon his retirement he worked for Warren Cleaning Services.

He is survived by his loving family; children, Bridget (Paul) Ohlson, Nancy (Nate Mancuso) Falker and Daniel (Lori) Henderson; sisters, Carol (Jim) Vorndran, Peggy (Bob) McVea; sister-in-law Cindy Cerce; grandchildren, Christopher (Carrie), Elisa (Dan), Rachel (Joe), Jodee (Kasey), Whitney (Pat), Daniel (Laura), Trey (Selina) and Lexi (Richard); 12 great-grandchildren, along with many nieces and nephews.

Friends are invited to call on Tuesday, April 15, 2025 from 4 to 7pm at Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, NY 14020. Prayers will follow calling hours at 7pm. He will be laid to rest in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Batavia.  

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Care-A-Van Ministries, PO Box 1611, Batavia, NY 14021. 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. 

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Robert F. Moore, on April 9, 2025. Surrounded by his family, he passed peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and kindness. We are heartbroken to lose such an incredible man.

Born on December 21, 1933, in Batavia, NY, Robert was the youngest of three children of George and Josephine (Wheatley) Moore. He was predeceased by his sisters, Gladys (Myron) Bowen and Jessie (Walter) Kalicki.

He was also predeceased by his loving wife, Rose (Falcone) Moore, with whom he shared 66 wonderful years of marriage. Just two months ago, he experienced a parent’s greatest heartbreak with the loss of his beautiful daughter, Patricia (Fauth) Moore.

Robert is survived by his children: Gina (Aaron) Bresler of Bergen, NY; Robert (Susan) Moore of Batavia, NY; William (Kelly) Moore of Batavia, NY; Stephen (Jeanne Cohen) Moore of Batavia, NY; and Julie (Ned) Chatt of Spencerport, NY.

He was a proud grandfather to 14 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews—as well as his sweet little dog, Bella, who brought him great comfort and joy.

After graduating high school in 1953, Robert joined the U.S. Air Force and proudly served with the Strategic Air Command as a ground crew mechanic in the 96th Air Refueling Squadron. He was stationed in Greenland, Alaska, and Newfoundland, and he loved to share stories of his service. He was proud to have served his country.

Upon returning home to Batavia, he met and married Rose, the love of his life. Together, they raised six children and opened their home to extended family, including Rose’s father. Robert worked tirelessly to support his growing family. He joined Yale & Towne in 1958, starting on the assembly line and later becoming a mechanic for large loaders and heavy machinery—a position he held for over 30 years. In addition, he often worked side jobs as a local contractor, with the help of his sons, daughter Gina, and wife. Even while working long hours, Robert never lost his sense of humor or his positive spirit.

In his late 70s, he became the lead custodian for St. Mary’s Church, a role he held until age 85. He retired to care for Rose, showing daily what devotion and true love look like. His gentle patience, unwavering support, and deep respect for her was a beautiful testament to their bond.

Family time meant everything to Robert. He especially cherished picnics at Letchworth State Park, scenic drives for ice cream, Friday night bingo with Rose, and visits to Batavia Downs. He remained a lifelong, loyal Buffalo Bills fan—experiencing every high and low with dedication and hope. He also loved Rose’s home cooking, with her sauce, roast beef with Yorkshire pudding, pizza, and apple pie being some of his favorites.

To know Robert was to know kindness, generosity, loyalty, and deep love. He was a devoted husband, an incredible father and grandfather, and a friend to many. His legacy will live on through the lives he touched, and he will forever be in our hearts.

Per his wishes, there will be no calling hours. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Resurrection Parish (St. Joseph’s Church) 303 E. Main St. Batavia, NY 14020 on Wednesday, April 16th, 2025 at 9:30 am. A brief Graveside Service will follow at Grand View Cemetery, Batavia, New York. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Robert’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a cause close to his heart. 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. 

July 10, 1946 - April 8, 2025

Wuest-Sharon A. (nee Voit) of Bennington, NY entered into rest on April 8, 2025 surrounded by her friends and family; beloved wife of Carl Wuest; dearest mother of David (Sherry) Wuest, Jeffrey (Nancy) Wuest and Kristen (James) Krupinski; loving sister of Kathleen (Thomas) Janik, Diane (late Douglas) Kenjockety, Kevin (Diana) Voit, Michael (Kathleen) Voit and James (Marlene) Voit; beloved grandmother to five grandchildren, Spencer Wuest, Erika Wuest, Kari Krupinski, Chloe Wuest and Ethan Wuest; aunt to numerous nieces and nephews.  She was predeceased by her parents Kenneth and Mary Jane Voit.  Family will be present to receive friends at the CHARLES MEYER FUNERAL HOME, 13228 Broadway Alden, NY Thursday from 4-8 PM.  Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at St. John Neumann Church, St. Vincent's Site Attica, NY on Friday at 10 AM (please assemble at church).  Flowers gratefully declined.  Memorials may be made to Gateway House, Attica, NY. 

Sharon's career spanned over 30 years, working as a receptionist at Dr. Triftshauser's and Dr. Salmon's Office in Batavia.  She was a faithful member of Our Lady of Good Counsel Church in Darien Center for 48 years.  She was long-time member of the Attica Garden Club and had a passion for flowers and gardening.  She also enjoyed being a member of the Quiet Times Women's Golf League.  Her smile and laughter  could light up the room and her ability to connect with people was a special gift.  Most of all she will be remembered for all the love and dedication that she devoted to  her family, friends and community.  Share your condolences at meyerfuneralhome.com

Thomas W. Mattice, 80, of Shanghai, China (formerly of Corfu, New York), passed suddenly on March 23, 2025.

Tom was born January 14, 1945, in Batavia, New York, to the late Simeon and Jean (Mason) Mattice. He was a graduate of Corfu High School and Mohawk Valley Community College. He worked briefly for the Eastman Kodak Company in Rochester, New York, prior to being drafted into the United States Army. 

Captain Mattice became an Army helicopter pilot, serving 18 months of his enlistment in Viet Nam. He earned the Army Aviation Badge, Vietnam Service Medal, Purple Heart, Bronze Star and the Distinguished Flying Cross. He was honorably discharged from the US Army after five years. He returned to his job at Eastman Kodak where he remained until his retirement.

Tom had a big heart and loved helping others in times of need. He was adventurous, enjoyed traveling and experiencing other cultures. He lived in the United States, the Netherlands and China. He was a craftsman, a gardener (loved flowers) and a perfectionist who enjoyed woodworking, cars and in his later years cooking and baking.

Tom is survived by his wife, Susan, of Shanghai, siblings Janice (Allan) Scoins of Cameron, North Carolina; Dr. Nancy Mattice (Sharon David) of Florence, Oregon; Thelma Mattice of Honeoye, New York; Lu Anne (Edwin) Mileham, Jr. of Corfu, New York and Charles (Lori) Mattice of Hesston, Pennsylvania. He is also survived by his daughter, Joy Mattice of Buffalo, New York, and several nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to a service of remembrance at the Indian Falls Fire Hall at 8030 Alleghany Road in Indian Falls on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at 9:30 a.m.

Following the service, Captain Mattice will be laid to rest, with military honors, at the Western New York National Cemetery, 1254 Indian Falls Road, Corfu, New York at 11:00 a.m. If you are attending the internment, the cemetery requests you be in line at the Administration Building by 10:45.

Robert C. Webster, 73, of Batavia passed away peacefully on Tuesday April 8, 2025. He was born in Lockport, NY on March 24, 1952 to the late Charles and Anna (Glena) Webster. 

Robert and Suzanne were married for 52 years raising a wonderful family of three.  His children and grandchildren were the pride and joy of his life.  He coached them, watched them run track, play baseball and hockey.  He participated in anything his “boys” were involved in loving every moment.  In August of 2022 came a surprise he instantly fell in love with, his Addy May.

Bob was a member of 5 Point Rod and Gun Club competing in years of league competition. Pheasant hunting was a lifelong passion that he made certain his grandsons could enjoy as much as he did. Many of his days were spent with spaniels and setters pursuing those pesky birds.

Anyone who knew Bob could appreciate his kind nature, honest advice and great sense of humor. He will be dearly missed.

He is survived by his beloved wife; Suzanne (Coffta) Webster; children Amy (Edward) Collver of Cheektowaga, Heidi (Kyle) Banser of Batavia and Andrew (Libby) Webster of Batavia; sister Linda Webster of Akron; father in law Leonard B. Coffta of Akron; 7 grandchildren Ryan Webster, Hannah Collver, Cooper Banser, Reid Webster, Chase Banser, Charles Webster and Adalynn May Webster, along with many nieces and nephews. 

Friends are invited to call on Monday April 14, 2024 from 4:00-7:00PM at Gilmartin Funeral Home 329-333 West Main St. Batavia, NY 14020. A 9:30AM Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday the 15^th at Ascension Parish 19 Sumner St. in Batavia. 

Flowers are gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Genesee Cancer Assistance 127 North St. in Batavia or the Five Point Rod and Gun Club 463 Transit Rd. Wyoming, NY 14591. To leave an online message of condolence please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329 West Main Street, Batavia, New York 14020. 

Everett P. McClelland, left us peacefully on the morning of Friday, March 21st, 2025. He was born in  Batavia on Tuesday, May 6th, 1952.

Everett was a cherished member of  Emmanuel Baptist Church and was a staple in the church choir. A true fan of the Buffalo Bills, Everett spent many weekends attending games with his dear friend and former roommate, Mike, sharing in the highs and lows of their favorite team.

Everett was preceded in death by his loving parents, Emory McClelland and Elizabeth Sears McClelland, as well as his dear sister, Kathryn Krautwurst.

He is survived by his sister, Sally (William) Phillips of Rochester, along with several nieces, nephews and his church family who will cherish his memory.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects and celebrate Everett's life at the funeral service, which will be held on Saturday, April 12th, 2025, at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Batavia, New York, at 11:00 am. He will be laid to rest in Machpelah Cemetery, LeRoy. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Everett’s memory to Emmanuel Baptist Church, 190 Oak Street, Batavia, New York, 14020. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in his memory, please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

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

Ronald A. Kamrowski, Sr. age 87 passed away on Monday, April 7, 2025 at United Memorial Medical Center. He was born on August 24, 1937 in Buffalo.

He is the beloved husband to Margaret J. Kamrowski; loving father to Ronald A. (Louise) Kamrowski, Jr., Chris (Renee) Kamrowski, Ann (Mike) Hinze, Diane (Mike) Pusateri, Roger (Shannon) Karan and the late Deborah Kamrowski. He was blessed with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Throughout his life, Ronald loved Harley's and fishing but hunting with his sons was his favorite pastime. He served in the United States Army for two years and retired from Raymond E. Kelley after over 30 years of employment. Ronald hated peppers and onions but ate them more then he knew. He always knew how to bring light to dark times with his humor. Even in his final days, his family would ask how he was feeling and he would respond "with his hands".

Ronald and Margaret were married for 50 years and lived a long and happy life together. He was an amazing husband, loving father and one of the kindest souls. Even though he will be greatly missed, he can now rest and is reunited with his trusted dog, Ginger. Rest easy, Ron, we all loved you very much.

Family and friends are invited to call on Wednesday, April 9th, 2025  from 2 pm to 4 pm at Marley Funeral Home, 135 Main Street, Attica. A prayer service, along with military honors, will follow visitation immediately at 4 pm at the funeral home.  He will be laid to rest in Forest Hill Cemetery, Attica.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Lions Club of Churchville and Riga, PO Box 364, Churchville NY 14428 or to your local VFW.  Online condolences at www.marleyfuneralhome.com.

Darien Center, Tammy Brueckman age 65, passed away on Saturday, April 5 2025, at Rochester General Hospital, surrounded by her loving family.

Tammy was born on December 6, 1959 in Warsaw, New York, a daughter of the late Bernie and Jeannine (Ryan) Tooley.

Tammy married her high school sweetheart, Robert Brueckman, on September 27, 1978 after graduating from Attica High School. Together they raised 3 wonderful children. Tammy worked as a bank teller at HSBC Bank for 30 years until her retirement.

She enjoyed traveling and camping with her family from the 1000 Islands to Arizona, and many places in between. She enjoyed sewing, baking, kayaking, reading, and true crime shows. She was a terrific cook and baker. Her deserts were legendary, from cheesecakes to cookies. Tammy cherished her family and showered her husband, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren with all of her love.

Surviving is her loving husband, Robert Brueckman; children, Sara (Todd) Lewinski, Sandi (Nathan) Barber, and Bob (Laura) Brueckman; grandchildren, Blake, Ella, Seth, Marissa, Logan, Hannah, Braden, and Ava; great grandchild, Paisleigh; sisters, Penny (Mike) Keicher, Kathy Spence, Darlene (Jim) Golson, Donna (Bill) Gerhardt, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Arrangements are under the care of Marley Funeral Home, Attica. The family will hold a celebration of life at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Tammy’s honor to, Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research at- https://www.stopsarcoidosis.org/ways-to-give/ or a local animal shelter of your choice.

To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in Tammy's name please visit www.marleyfuneralhome.com.

Robert Francis Botham “Bob”, 90 of Warsaw and formerly of Akron, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 5, 2025 at his home with his daughter Laura by his side.

He was born in Buffalo, NY on July 27th, 1934, a son of the late Lee F. Botham and Dorothy Hartmetz Botham.

While serving in the United States Navy during the Korean War, Bob met a woman, Rena Pearl Sedden, who would become his wife for the next 60 years. After serving our great country honorably, Bob spent the majority of his career over several decades as a truck driver, where he would also go on to save many lives and always seemed to be at the right place at the right time while on the road.

Bob very much enjoyed woodworking, collecting sports cards, watching Bills and Sabres games, watching old TV westerns and listening to The Statler Brothers. Bob was a longstanding member of the Akron Fire Company as well as the Lockport Woodworkers.

Bob and Rena went on to have 4 children: Marsha Botham, Debbie (Barry) Schoonover, Laura (Michael) Hohensee, Robert (Amy) Botham, 15 grandchildren, 35 great-grandchildren, 1 great, great-grandchild and several nieces and nephews. Bob is also survived by siblings: David (Maryann) Botham, Gary (Lil) Botham and Judy (Rick) Kochems.

Bob was predeceased by his loving wife Rena Sedden Botham, his daughter Marsha Botham and two brothers Lee "Bup" Botham and Ronald Botham. Finally, Bob was followed in passing by his favorite furry friend, Jake, also known as "Little Buddy".

There will be no prior visitation and services will be held at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, please make memorial donations to your local hospice. Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.mcandrewfuneralhomes.net.

ARRANGEMENTS WERE ENTRUSTED TO THE J. LEONARD McANDREW FUNERAL HOME, LLC, 32 JOHN ST., AKRON, NY 14001. RONALD KONIECZNY II, DIRECTOR.

Batavia - Allan C. Stevens, of Batavia, went to be with the Lord on Saturday, April 5, 2025, just shy of his 82nd birthday at Rochester General Hospital. Born on Wednesday, April 21, 1943, in Niagara Falls, New York, Allan was a devoted husband, gifted educator, and passionate gardener whose warmth and humor left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Allan's journey in education began with a Bachelor's degree from Roberts Wesleyan College followed by a Master's degree from the University of Buffalo. He dedicated 40 years of his life to teaching at the Oakfield Alabama Central School District in Oakfield, New York, where he was known for his ability to inspire and educate young minds. Allan's colleagues, students, and friends remember him as an exceptionally easy-to-talk-to individual, who maintained a good sense of humor and always kept his cars spotless—a testament to his meticulous nature.

A man of deep faith, Allan was an active member of the Northgate Free Methodist Church, where he generously gave his time and talents. His passion for gardening earned him the title of certified master gardener, allowing him to cultivate beauty not only in his backyard but also in the lives of those around him.

Allan is survived by his loving wife and best friend, Joan (Hockey) Stevens, with whom he shared a life filled with joy and companionship. He leaves behind his cherished children, Mark (Jennifer) Stevens of Williamsburg, Virginia, and Heidi Stevens-Kollarik of Oakfield. His legacy also lives on in his adored grandchildren, Hope Kollarik and Noah (Alexis Ethridge) Kollarik, and his dear sister-in-law, Meg Stevens of Syracuse.

He was preceded in death by his father, Clifford F. Stevens, mother, Mary C. (Schultz) Stevens, and brother, Carl Stevens.

Family, friends, and former students are invited to celebrate Allan's remarkable life during visitation on Friday from 4 to 7:00 p.m. at Northgate Free Methodist Church, 8160 Bank Street Road in Batavia and thereafter during Allan's funeral service on Saturday at 11:00 a.m. also at the church. Burial in Grandview Cemetery in Batavia will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Northgate Free Methodist Church in Allan's memory.

Funeral arrangements are being completed by H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home in Batavia. Please leave a condolence, share a story, or light a candle at www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.  Allan will be deeply missed by all who had the honor of knowing him, and his influence will continue to touch countless lives for generations to come.

Attica, Christine S. Neidrauer, age 74, passed away on Friday, April 4 2025, at home in Attica, New York.

Christine was born on January 6, 1951 in Buffalo, New York, a daughter of the late Howard and Gloria (Weiss) Neidrauer.

Christine owned Christie & Associated Insurance Company in Newport Beach, California, until her retirement, after retiring Christine returned back home to New York. She was an avid Bills fan, loved animals, especially cats and birds, and cared deeply for her family.

Surviving is her aunt Shirley Stevens, niece Jennifer Hobin, cousin, Susan Stevens, and many other nieces, nephews, and cousins. In death Christine is reunited with her parents, Howard and Gloria Neidrauer, and siblings, William Neidrauer, Carol Kelly, and Robin Hauret.

Arrangements are under the care of Marley Funeral Home, Attica. Burial in Elm Lawn Cemetery will be at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Christine’s honor to: Animal Friends at Wyoming County Animal Shelter, 4380 NY-19, Silver Springs, NY 14550

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

Wilma L.  Beyer, 92 of Akron, NY, passed away peacefully on Monday (March 24, 2025) at Wells Hospice Buffalo, Beechwood Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Amherst, NY.

Wilma was born on February 15, 1933, in Flint, Michigan, as the first-born daughter of the late Arthur W. and Wilhelmina Ruth Thomas Blake. Shortly after her birth, the Blake family moved to Buffalo, where her father worked for General Motors.

Wilma’s mother passed away in 1940, leaving behind Wilma and two younger sisters, Jackie and Ruth Ann. The two eldest girls lived with relatives on the Blake family farm in Honesdale, Pennsylvania, until their father remarried in 1942. The newly blended Blake family included Wilma’s stepmother, Doris, step-siblings Betty Ann and Evan Tyler, and later, a half-sister, Sally.

Attending Amherst High School, she excelled in sports and played the lead role in her school play. Every summer, she visited the family farm in Honesdale. Helping with chores, she herded dairy cows, tended gardens, cooked, sewed, and knitted. Wilma also developed a love for driving and operating tractors, trucks, trailers, boats, and cars. Additionally, she learned to square dance and polka and developed a deep appreciation for nature and the outdoors.

During her junior year of high school, Wilma met and fell in love with Donald Maurer. After graduating, she began training at the Millard Fillmore School of Nursing while Donald worked at General Motors. Donald enlisted in the Army when the Korean War began and was stationed in Germany for two years. Meanwhile, Wilma completed her nursing education. Married in 1955, they welcomed their only daughter, Patricia, in 1956.

Wilma and Don shared a loving marriage enjoying many activities, such as camping, fishing, cross-country skiing, and Buffalo Bills football games. They were both active members of their local volunteer fire company. Wilma served as a longtime president and lifetime member of the North Bailey Ladies Auxiliary. She was also a semi-professional bowler, winning several tournaments.

A devout member of Trinity Old Lutheran Church in Amherst, Wilma sang in the choir. She was known for her natural beauty—tall and slender with a distinctive gray streak in her hair from a young age. She never colored her hair or wore makeup, except for lipstick. She also modeled as a “Mother of the Bride” for Benton’s Bridal Salon in Buffalo, along with other local stores.

Wilma took great pride in her nursing career and maintained her RN license for life. She had a deep interest in health and wellness and was an original participant in the groundbreaking “Women’s Health Initiative” study at the University at Buffalo.

In 1980, Don passed away from pancreatic cancer just one month before the birth of his first grandchild. Wilma cared for him at home with support from the Buffalo Hospice Program. It was a difficult time for her, becoming a widow at such a young age. At the time, she was working as a school nurse at her alma mater, Amherst High School. She kept busy with her job, friends, and family.

A few months later, Wilma was introduced to Dick Beyer, the new wrestling coach at Amherst. They quickly became close friends, attending many school events together. Having been blessed with a second love, they married in 1983 and built a home in Akron, NY. Dick worked as a physical education teacher and coach for Akron Schools, while also maintaining his career as a professional wrestler; known worldwide as "The Destroyer" and "Doctor X". Wilma fully embraced her new role as "Mrs. Coach" and “Mrs. Destroyer.” They traveled extensively nationally and internationally enjoying new friends, beaches and various outdoor activities.

Wilma was highly recognized as Dick’s strong support as he received numerous awards and honors in both Japan and the United States. Even after retirement, they continued traveling for events and charity endeavors. However, their happiest moments were spent at home, surrounded by friends and family. Their home became a hub for large gatherings, featuring swimming and backyard cookouts, where everyone was treated like family. Wilma continued her gardening expertise and was widely known for her “green thumbs”; able to make anything grow.

Wilma and Dick left a lasting legacy in the Village of Akron and Western New York, dedicated to serving the community and its youth. They were active members of the Akron-Newstead Rotary, Masonic Lodge, Relay for Life, Ilio DiPaolo Scholarship Fund, Akron 1^st United Methodist Church, and One Church Akron. The couple was always willing to organize and assist in charity and fundraising events for various community needs. Two highlights were taking youth wrestlers from WNY, for over 20 years, for annual wrestling tournaments in Japan and two Akron HS Swim Teams to Japan for cultural exchange.

Wilma was predeceased by husbands, Donald N. Maurer (1980) and Richard J. Beyer (2019), and her siblings, Betty Ann Stradtman and Evan Tyler.

She is survived by her daughter, Patti Murray (Marc Schrenk) of Eggertsville; stepchildren, Kurt Beyer of Buffalo, Kris (Chris) Jones of Akron, and Richard (Amy) Beyer of Jacksonville, Florida; grandchildren, Lisa (Chris) Bonner, Kelly (Glenn) Friedel, Laurene (Adam) MacTaggart, Brent Schrenk, Garrett Jones, Grace Beyer, Grant Beyer, and Lucy Beyer; great-grandchildren, Charles, Marshall, Selah, Liora, Petra, and Rory; and her sisters, Jacqueline Harten, Ruth Ann Berger, and Sally DeLong. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Wilma’s legacy is one of love, service, and dedication to her family, friends, and community.

Family and friends are cordially invited to share their thoughts, condolences, and fond memories on Friday, May 23rd, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at the J. Leonard McAndrew Funeral Home, LLC, 32 John St., Akron, NY. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, May 24th, 11:00 AM at One Church, 6 Scotland Rd., Akron, NY 14001. She will be laid to rest at a later date in White Chapel Memorial Park in Tonawanda.

Memorial contributions in her name may be offered to the Western New York Hero’s, www.wnyheroes.org/get-involved/donate/. Expressions of Sympathy may be shared with the family at www.mcandrewfuneralhomes.net.

ARRANGEMENTS WERE ENTRUSTED TO THE J. LEONARD McANDREW FUNERAL HOME, LLC, 32 JOHN ST., AKRON, NY 14001. RONALD KONIECZNY II, DIRECTOR.

Rochester– Gail Ann Ward, age 76, passed away on Thursday, April 3 2025, at Hildebrandt Hospice Care Center.

Gail was born on October 1, 1948 in Rochester, New York, a daughter of the late Charles & Mabel (Kent) Taggart.

She was a long time member of the Bergen United Methodist Church. Gail was a caring and generous woman who freely gave of herself. She donated to numerous organizations and enjoyed going to bible studies with her sister. Gail enjoyed crafting, crocheting, gardening, cooking, baking, and collecting owls. She loved spending time with her family and friends.

Surviving is her daughter, Amy (Chad) Michael; grandchild, Eli Michael; siblings, Nancy Specht, Maureen (Peter) Bosse, Judy Johnson, Terrance (Eunice) Taggart, and Thomas (Deborah) Taggart; her dog, Rex and many nieces and nephews.

In death Gail is reunited with her first husband, Edward Petrusek (2010) and second husband, Russell Ward (2019); brother in law, John Specht.

A funeral service for Gail will be held on April 9, 2025 from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm at Bergen United Methodist Church, 27 Lake Avenue, Bergen New York, 14416 with a luncheon to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Gail’s honor to, United Methodist Church, 27 Lake Avenue, Bergen New York, 14416 or American Cancer Society P.O. Box 6704 Hagerstown, MD 21741.

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